bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristic changes of periodontal ligament‐derived cells during passage
Authors: Itaya T. , Kagami H. , Okada K. , Yamawaki A. , Narita Y. , Inoue M. , Sumita Y. , Ueda M.
Published: June 2009

Background and Objective:  Although periodontal ligament‐derived cells are expected to be a useful source of cells for periodontal tissue engineering, the characteristic changes of primary cultured cells have not been well studied. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the characteristics of periodontal ligament‐derived cells and their changes during passage.

Material and Methods:  Human periodontal ligament tissue was obtained from extracted third molars. Cells were subcultured until passage 6 and the cell characteristics from early to late passages were evaluated using immunofluorescence microscopy, alkaline phosphatase activity analyses, reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. To examine the function of periodontal ligament‐derived cells further, cells were transplanted into the renal subcapsule of an immunocompromised rat.

Results:  Immunofluorescence results showed relatively uniform expression of MSX‐2 and osteonectin from passage 1 until passage 6. The STRO‐1‐positive fraction was 33.5% at passage 0, which was reduced to 14.7% at passage 3. Cultured cells at passage 1 expressed mRNA for collagen type I, collagen type XII, Runx2, alkaline phosphatase, osteonectin, osteopontin, scleraxis, tenomodulin, Msx2, GDF5 and GDF7 genes, but not for bone sialoprotein. The level of mRNA expression from tenomodulin and collagen type XII genes decreased after passage 3. Alkaline phosphatase activity decreased in cells at later passages. Osteogenic induction of periodontal ligament‐derived cells resulted in a down‐regulation of the tenomodulin gene. Transplanted cells from both early and late passages produced dense collagen fiber bundles without calcified tissue.

Conclusion:  Cultured periodontal ligament‐derived cells were a morphologically homogeneous population, although expression of STRO‐1 was limited in primary culture. Cultured cells showed de‐differentiation during passage for both osteogenesis‐ and tendo/ligamentogenesis‐related genes.
Immunolocalization of laminin and integrin in regenerating junctional epithelium of mice after gingivectomy
Authors: Masaoka T. , Hashimoto S. , Kinumatsu T. , Muramatsu T. , Jung H.‐S. , Yamada S. , Shimono M.
Published: June 2009

Background and Objective:  The expression patterns of adhesive proteins and extracellular matrix proteins in regenerating gingival epithelium after gingivectomy are unknown. The aim of this study was to examine the expression of laminin 1, laminin γ2 (a specific component of laminin 5), integrin β4 and integrin α3 in the regenerating gingival epithelium in order to understand the mechanism of wound healing during reconstitution of the sulcular environment.

Material and Methods:  The palatal gingivae of the maxillary molars of Institute of Cancer Research mice were excised, and the regenerating tissues were examined 1, 3, 5, 7 and 14 days later. Fresh, non‐fixed and non‐decalcified frozen sections were prepared and stained using immunofluorescence.

Results:  At 1 day post‐surgery, intense expression of laminin γ2, integrin β4 and integrin α3 was distinct in the frontal margin of the regenerating oral epithelium. Laminin γ2 was diffusely detected on the root surface and in connective tissues beneath the regenerating oral epithelium at 3 and 5 days. At 7 days, laminin γ2 was intermittently recognizable in the internal basal lamina (IBL) close to tooth‐facing cells, while laminin γ2, integrin β4 and integrin α3 were observed in the IBL and in the external basal lamina (EBL) of the regenerating junctional epithelium at 14 days.

Conclusion:  These results suggest that secretion of laminin 5 in the connective tissue may induce epithelial cell migration, and that binding of laminin 5 to integrin α6β4 and integrin α3β1 in the IBL may provoke cell adhesion and migration of cells facing the tooth on the enamel surface of the regenerating junctional epithelium.
The Role of Galectins in Protein Trafficking
Authors: Delacour Delphine , Koch Annett , Jacob Ralf
Published: June 2009

The galectins, a family of lectins, modulate distinct cellular processes, such as cancer progression, immune response and cellular development, through their specific binding to extracellular or intracellular ligands. In the past few years, research has unravelled interactions of different galectins with lipids and glycoproteins in the outer milieu or in the secretory pathway of cells. Interestingly, these lectins do not possess a signalling sequence to enter the endoplasmic reticulum as a starting point for the classical secretory pathway. Instead they use a so‐called non‐classical mechanism for translocation across the plasma membrane and/or into the lumen of transport vesicles. Here, they stabilize transport platforms for apical trafficking or sort apical glycoproteins into specific vesicle populations. Modes of ligand interaction as well as the modulation of binding activities and trafficking pathways are discussed in this review.
Association of CNR1 and FAAH endocannabinoid gene polymorphisms with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa: evidence for synergistic effects
Authors: Monteleone P. , Bifulco M. , Di Filippo C. , Gazzerro P. , Canestrelli B. , Monteleone F. , Proto M. C. , Di Genio M. , Grimaldi C. , Maj M.
Published: June 2009

Endocannabinoids modulate eating behavior; hence, endocannabinoid genes may contribute to the biological vulnerability to eating disorders. The rs1049353 (1359 G/A) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of the gene coding the endocannabinoid CB1 receptor (CNR1) and the rs324420 (cDNA 385C to A) SNP of the gene coding fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the major degrading enzyme of endocannabinoids, have been suggested to have functional effects on mature proteins. Therefore, we explored the possibility that those SNPs were associated to anorexia nervosa and/or bulimia nervosa. The distributions of the CNR1 1359 G/A SNP and of the FAAH cDNA 385C to A SNP were investigated in 134 patients with anorexia nervosa, 180 patients with bulimia nervosa and 148 normal weight healthy controls. Additive effects of the two SNPs in the genetic susceptibility to anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa were also tested. As compared to healthy controls, anorexic and bulimic patients showed significantly higher frequencies of the AG genotype and the A allele of the CNR1 1359 G/A SNP. Similarly, the AC genotype and the A allele of the FAAH cDNA 385C to A SNP were significantly more frequent in anorexic and bulimic individuals. A synergistic effect of the two SNPs was evident in anorexia nervosa but not in bulimia nervosa. Present findings show for the first time that the CNR1 1359 G/A SNP and the FAAH cDNA 385C to A SNP are significantly associated to anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, and demonstrate a synergistic effect of the two SNPs in anorexia nervosa.
Impaired Pavlovian fear extinction is a common phenotype across genetic lineages of the 129 inbred mouse strain
Authors: Camp M. , Norcross M. , Whittle N. , Feyder M. , D’Hanis W. , Yilmazer‐Hanke D. , Singewald N. , Holmes A.
Published: June 2009

Fear extinction is impaired in psychiatric disorders such as post‐traumatic stress disorder and schizophrenia, which have a major genetic component. However, the genetic factors underlying individual variability in fear extinction remain to be determined. By comparing a panel of inbred mouse strains, we recently identified a strain, 129S1/SvImJ (129S1), that exhibits a profound and selective deficit in Pavlovian fear extinction, and associated abnormalities in functional activation of a key prefrontal‐amygdala circuit, as compared with C57BL/6J. The first aim of the present study was to assess fear extinction across multiple 129 substrains representing the strain's four different genetic lineages (parental, steel, teratoma and contaminated). Results showed that 129P1/ReJ, 129P3/J, 129T2/SvEmsJ and 129X1/SvJ exhibited poor fear extinction, relative to C57BL/6J, while 129S1 showed evidence of fear incubation. On the basis of these results, the second aim was to further characterize the nature and specificity of the extinction phenotype in 129S1, as an exemplar of the 129 substrains. Results showed that the extinction deficit in 129S1 was neither the result of a failure to habituate to a sensitized fear response nor an artifact of a fear response to (unconditioned) tone per se. A stronger conditioning protocol (i.e. five × higher intensity shocks) produced an increase in fear expression in 129S1, relative to C57BL/6J, due to rapid rise in freezing during tone presentation. Taken together, these data show that impaired fear extinction is a phenotypic feature common across 129 substrains, and provide preliminary evidence that impaired fear extinction in 129S1 may reflect a pro‐fear incubation‐like process.
Baby walkers: a perspective from Turkey
Authors: Dogan Derya Gumus , Bilici Meki , Yilmaz Ayse Esra , Catal Ferhat , Keles Nuran
Published: June 2009

Aim:  To determine in an urban population in Turkey, the frequency of baby walker (BW) use, beliefs and attitudes of mothers regarding BWs, frequency of BW‐related injuries and whether families receive counselling from their paediatricians about BWs or not.

Methods:  Children aged 2 months to 5 years who attended the well‐child care clinics of Fatih University Hospital in Ankara comprised the sample. A semi‐structured questionnaire was verbally administered.

Results:  Of 495 children, 75.4% was found to use BW. Female gender [odds ratio (OR) = 1.82, 95% confidence interval (CI) =1.19–2.78) and lower maternal education (OR = 0.37, 95% CI = 1.18–0.74) were found to be associated with BW use. Frequencies of injuries associated with BWs were low (7.8%). Only 92 (18.6%) families received appropriate counselling by their paediatricians.

Conclusion:  The results of our study show that BW use is common in urban Turkey. Families are not informed about the lack of benefits and potential hazards of BWs and base reasons of using and not using on unique cultural beliefs rather than informed, evidence‐based decisions. Paediatricians in Turkey and potentially other countries require information about the need for counselling families about the hazards associated with BW use.
DETERMINATION OF COOLNESS AND DAMPNESS SENSATIONS CREATED BY FABRICS BY FOREARM TEST AND FABRIC MEASUREMENTS
Authors: KAPLAN SIBEL , OKUR AYŞE
Published: June 2009

Clothing is continuously in an interaction with the body both thermally and mechanically. Different sensations constituting the comfort status of a person arise as a result of this interaction. Coolness sensation perceived during skin‐fabric contact is one of these sensations arising from the transient heat flow from skin to the fabric as skin is usually warmer than clothing. In this study, coolness to touch and dampness sensations created by knitted fabrics having different compositions and physical surface characteristics were investigated by forearm test conducted on seven males. Besides physical properties (weight, yarn count, thickness, density), surface roughness and friction properties of the inner surfaces of the fabrics touching the skin were also determined. Microscopic photographs were taken to have an idea about hairiness properties of the inner surfaces and optical porosity values were calculated by analysis of the microscopic images by using MATLAB software. It was found out that coolness and dampness sensations arise during skin–fabric contact are mostly related to the permeability and surface roughness characteristics of fabrics, and the effect of fabric material is more on dampness sensation than coolness sensation.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

In the recent years, consumers pay attention more to the mechanical, thermal and visual sensations stimulated by the dynamic body–clothing interactions besides the aesthetic properties of their clothing. They take into consideration feelings they have during first touch with the clothing into their purchase decisions. Coolness to touch sensation perceived during first contact with the fabric and dampness sensation – which is very important during wear conditions including sweating – are two of them and they are related to the thermophysiological aspect of clothing comfort. For producing garments giving desirable feelings, it is very important to determine fabric properties influencing these sensations. A subjective evaluation method – the forearm test – was used to find out the relationships between coolness and dampness sensations and fabric properties. Results of this study are thought to be beneficial data for fabric manufacturers aiming to produce clothing for specific end users.
Changing Status in India's Marginal Music Communities
Authors: Sherinian Zoe
Published: June 2009

The renegotiation of the performance of an instrument or genre associated with pollution or a degraded social status has been a significant theme in recent ethnomusicological literature on marginalized Indian music communities. These communities include Dalits (outcastes), lower castes, devadasis (hereditary temple dancers), women, and rural poor. Through a review of this literature and film production, I describe four positions taken by these communities and the impact on performance that these changes have brought: (i) discontinuance and rejection, (ii) replacement, (iii) maintenance of performance, yet rejection of caste or community duties, and (iv) reclamation of the music and identity as creditable.
Religious Environmentalism in the West. II: Impediments to the Praxis of Christian Environmentalism in Australia
Authors: Douglas Steve
Published: June 2009

This article follows my earlier survey of the phenomenon and literature of Christian environmentalism in the West (Douglas 2009). I concluded that the literature of religious environmentalism has only recently begun to address the process of converting ecotheology into praxis. In this article, I present some significant factors that impede the conversion of ecotheology and associated symbolic policy and rhetoric, into operational policies and praxis, drawing on a case study of mainstream Christian denominations in Australia.
N‐CAM Dysfunction and Unexpected Accumulation of PSA‐NCAM in Brain of Adult‐Onset Autosomal‐Dominant Leukodystrophy
Authors: Piccinini Marco , Buccinnà Barbara , De Marco Giovanni , Lupino Elisa , Ramondetti Cristina , Grifoni Silvia , Votta Barbara , Giordana Maria Teresa , Rinaudo Maria Teresa
Published: June 2009

Previously, myelin from cerebral white matter (CWM) of two subjects of a family with orthochromatic adult‐onset autosomal‐dominant leukodystrophy (ADLD) was disclosed to exhibit defective large isoform of myelin‐associated glycoprotein (L‐MAG) and patchy distribution only in the elder subject. L‐MAG and neural cell adhesion molecule (N‐CAM) (N‐CAM 180, 140, and 120) are structurally related and concur to myelin/axon interaction. In early developmental stages, in neurons and glia N‐CAM is converted into polysialylated (PSA)‐NCAM by two sialyltransferases sialyltransferase‐X (STX) and polysialyltransferase‐1 (PST). Notably, PSA‐NCAM disrupts N‐CAM adhesive properties and is nearly absent in the adult brain.

Here, CWM extracts and myelin of the two subjects were searched for the expression pattern of the N‐CAM isoforms and PSA‐NCAM, and their CWM was evaluated for N‐CAM, STX and PST gene copy number and gene expression as mRNA. Biochemically, we disclosed that in CWM extracts and myelin from both subjects, PSA‐NCAM accumulates, N‐CAM 180 considerably increases, N‐CAM 140 is modestly modified and N‐CAM 120 remarkably decreases; duplication of genes encoding N‐CAM, STX and PST was not revealed, whereas PST mRNA was clearly increased. Immunohistochemically, in CWM of both subjects, we found an unusually diffuse accumulation of PSA‐NCAM without inflammation markers. PSA‐NCAM persistence, up‐regulated PST mRNA and previously uncovered defective L‐MAG may be early pathogenetic events in this ADLD form.
Effects of Collagen and Collagen Hydrolysate from Jellyfish (Rhopilema esculentum) on Mice Skin Photoaging Induced by UV Irradiation
Authors: Zhuang Yongliang , Hou Hu , Zhao Xue , Zhang Zhaohui , Li Bafang
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT:  Collagen (JC) was extracted from jellyfish (Rhopilema esculentum) and hydrolyzed to prepare collagen hydrolysate (JCH). The protective effects of JC and JCH against UV‐induced damages to mice skin were evaluated and compared in this article. JC and JCH could alleviate the UV‐induced abnormal changes of antioxidative indicators, including the superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px), and catalase (CAT) activities and the contents of glutathione (GSH) and malondiaidehyde (MDA). JC and JCH could protect skin lipid and collagen from the UV radiation damages. Furthermore, the changes of total ceramide and glycosaminoglycan in skin were recovered significantly by JC and JCH. The action mechanisms mainly involved the antioxidative properties and the repairing to endogenous collagen synthesis of JC and JCH in vivo. JCH with the lower molecular weight showed much higher effects than JC. The results indicated that JCH was a novel antiphotoaging agent from natural resources.
Optimization Process of Black Soybean Natto Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Shih Ming‐Chih , Yang Kai‐Ts'ung , Kuo Sue‐Tzu
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT: Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to determine the optimum combinations of 3 factors, cooking time (40 to 120 min), inoculated bacteria populations (101to 109cells/100 g), and fermentation time (12 to 36 h) for producing black soybean natto. All of the responses (hardness, viscosity, and trichloacetic acid‐soluble nitrogen) were significantly affected by the 3 factors. Fermentation time was the most important factor affecting quality of black soybean natto. Optimum combinations were cooking time 110 min, inoculated bacteria populations 102to 104cells/100 g, and fermentation time 30 to 33 h.
MAXIMAL EFFECTIVENESS OF 670 mμ IN THE LIGHT DEPENDENT CAROTENOID SYNTHESIS IN CHLORELLA VULGARIS
Authors: Claes Hedwig
Published: June 2009

Abstract— An investigation was made of the action spectrum and some other properties of light dependent carotenoid synthesis in Chlorella vulgaris. The special mutant of chlorella used for the experiments has normal chloroplasts in light only and accumulates acyclic carotene precursors and a small amount of chlorophylls in the dark. Lamellar structures are not formed in the absence of light. Production of cyclic carotenes in light can be observed in this special strain in the absence of photosynthesis, hydroxylations involved in xanthophyll synthesis, and formation of lamellar structures. The results obtained suggest that light dependent cyclization of carotenes in chlorella is sensitized by excited chlorophylls.
Management of Urban Road Runoff Containing PAHs: Probabilistic Modeling and Its Application in Beijing, China1
Authors: Zhang Wei , Keller Arturo A. , Yue Dapan , Wang Xuejun
Published: June 2009

Abstract:  Pollutant loading from storm runoff is considered to be an important component of nonpoint source pollution in urban areas. In developing countries, because of the accelerated urbanization and motorization, storm runoff pollution has become a challenge for improving aquatic environmental quality. An effective storm runoff management plan needs to be developed, and questions concerning how much and which proportion of a storm should be treated need to be answered. In this study, a model is developed to determine the fraction of storm runoff that needs to be treated to meet the discharge standard within a given probability. The model considers that the pollutants can be mobilized during the early stage of a storm. The model is applied to a field study of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in road runoff in Beijing, China. In this case, the probability that the PAH load will be mobilized with suspended sediments by the earlier portion of the flush is 73%. Given the high PAH loading in the study area and the referenced discharge standard, the probability that the entire runoff should be captured and treated is 94%. Thus, urban planners need to consider treatment systems for the majority of the storms in this area, whether the PAH load is in the first flush or not. This methodology can be applied to other regions where PAH loads may result in different management outcomes.
Urban Land Use, Channel Incision, and Water Table Decline Along Coastal Plain Streams, North Carolina1
Authors: Hardison Emma C. , O’Driscoll Michael A. , DeLoatch John P. , Howard Robert J. , Brinson Mark M.
Published: June 2009

Abstract:  This study evaluates the effects of urban land use on stream channels and riparian ground‐water levels along low‐order Inner Coastal Plain streams in North Carolina. Six sites with stream catchments of similar size (1.19‐3.46 km2) within the Tar River Basin were selected across an urban land use gradient, as quantified by a range of catchment total impervious area (TIA; 3.8‐36.7%). Stream stage and ground‐water levels within three floodplain monitoring wells were measured manually and using pressure transducers from May 2006‐June 2007. Channel incision ratio (CIR), the ratio of bank height to bankfull height, was also measured at each monitoring site and along stream reaches within the study area (12 urban and 12 rural sites). Riparian ground‐water levels were inversely related to catchment TIA (%). As TIA (%) and stormwater runoff increased, the degree of stream channel incision increased and riparian ground‐water tables declined. In urban floodplains (>15% TIA), the median ground‐water level was 0.84 m deeper than for the rural settings (<15% TIA). This has resulted in a shift to drier conditions in the urban riparian zones, particularly during the summer months. CIR was found to be a reliable surface indicator of “riparian hydrologic drought” in these settings.
Clogging of an Effluent Dominated Semiarid River: A Conceptual Model of Stream‐Aquifer Interactions1
Authors: Treese Samantha , Meixner Thomas , Hogan James F.
Published: June 2009

Abstract:  Water managers in arid and semiarid regions increasingly view treated wastewater (effluent) as an important water resource. Artificial recharge basins allow effluent to seep into the ground relieving stressed aquifers, however these basins frequently clog due to physical, chemical, and biological processes. Likewise effluent is increasingly used to maintain perennial base flow for dry streambeds, however, little is known about the impact of effluent on streambed hydraulic conductivity and stream‐aquifer interactions. We address this issue by investigating: if a clogging layer forms, how the formation of a clogging layer alters stream‐aquifer connections, and what hydrologic factors control the formation and removal of clogging layers. We focused on the Upper Santa Cruz River, Arizona where effluent from the Nogales International Waste Water Treatment Plant sustains perennial flow. Monthly sampling, along a 30 km river reach, was done with two foci: physical streambed transformations and water source identification using chemical composition. Historical dataset were included to provide a larger context for the work. Results show that localized clogging occurs in the Upper Santa Cruz River. The clogging layers perch the stream and shallow streambed causing desaturation below the streambed. With these results, a conceptual model of clogging is established in the context of a semiarid hydrologic cycle: formation during the hot premonsoon months when flow is nearly constant and removal by large flood flows (>10 m3/s) during the monsoon season. However, if the intensity of flooding during the semiarid hydrologic cycle is lessened, the dependent riparian area can experience a die off. This conceptual model leads us to the conclusion that effluent dominated riparian systems are inherently unstable due to the clogging process. Further understanding of this process could lead to improved ecosystem restoration and management.
Randomized clinical trial of standard dietary treatment versus a low‐carbohydrate/high‐protein diet or the LighterLife Programme in the management of obesity*
Authors: ROLLAND Catherine , HESSION Michelle , MURRAY Susan , WISE Alan , BROOM Iain
Published: June 2009

Background:  With the current obesity epidemic, the search for effective weight loss approaches is required. In the present study, changes in weight, body composition and cardiovascular (CV) risk in response to a low‐fat, reduced‐energy diet (LFRE), a low‐carbohydrate/high‐protein diet (LCHP), or a commercially available very low‐calorie diet (LighterLife; LL) were assessed.

Methods:  One hundred and twenty obese patients (body mass index ≥35 kg/m2) underwent a screening period of 3 months on the LFRE. Those who lost >5% of their body weight were maintained on this approach for an additional 3 months, whereas those who lost >10% at this time were maintained for 1 year. Patients failing to achieve these targets were randomly allocated to either the LCHP (n = 38) or LL (n = 34) for a period of 9 months.

Results:  Significantly greater weight loss was seen for patients on the LL than the LCHP at 3 (mean (±SD) −11.6 ± 12.9 vs −2.8 ± 4.5 kg, respectively; P < 0.0001) and 9 months (−15.1 ± 21.1 vs −1.9 ± 5.0 kg, respectively; P < 0.0001) after screening. Significantly greater improvement in total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein–cholesterol, fasting glucose, and diastolic blood pressure was seen at 3 months in patients on the LL compared with the LCHP (P < 0.05). These differences were no longer significant at 9 months, with the exception of fasting glucose. The attrition rate was elevated in the LCHP group, but did not differ significantly from the LL group.

Conclusion:  Greater weight loss and improved CV risk were achieved with the LL, which mostly reflects the patient support provided for each dietary treatment.
Universal mtDNA primers for species identification of degraded bony fish samples
Authors: JORDAN LEAH G. , STEELE CRAIG A. , THORGAARD GARY H.
Published: June 2009

We developed primers for amplifying and sequencing highly degraded mtDNA from diverse fish species. The primers flank a variable 148‐bp fragment within the 12S region of mtDNA. We screened and sequenced 82 samples of bony fishes representing 17 families to confirm cross‐species amplification and identification. Salmonid species were analysed and demonstrate 13 species‐specific SNPs within this region. Based on alignments of additional deposited sequences, these primers are conserved in many other species, making them useful for species identification using degraded DNA samples such as archaeological specimens.
L'ELECTRORETINOGRAPHIE DANS LA RETINOPATHIE DIABETIQUE ET DANS LA RETINOPATHIE HYPERTENSIVE
Authors: François Jules , Derouck Alfred
Published: June 2009

Conclusions et Résumé.

1. L'E.R.G. donne, dans la rétinopathie diabétique, des valeurs sensiblement normales, même dans les cas graves avec nombreux exsudats et hémorragies de la rétine, aà l'exception des cas de rétinite proliférante, où la réponse est subnormale; la durée du potentiel b a tendance à augmenter.

Dans la rétinopathie hypertensive par contre, du moins au stade III ou IV de Wagener et Keith, la réponse devient subnormale et la durée de l'onde b est plutôt réduite.

2. L'interposition de filtres interférentiels blue et vert donne des traceés qui ne se distinguent en rien des tracés normaux.

3. L'action des vasodilatateurs (priscol) sur l'amplitude du potentiel b est très variable aussi bien dans la rétinopathie diabétique que dans la rétinopathie hypertensive. Aussi ne pouvons nous, en clinique, attribuer aucune signification généralement dans les limites des variations spontanées que l'on peut observer chez sujets normaux.
HYPERTENSION OCULAIRE ET ZONA OPHTALMIQUE
Authors: François J. , Neetens A.
Published: June 2009

En raison du probléme pathogknique qui se pose, il nous a paru intéressant de rapporter deux cas de zona ophtalmique, qui se sont compliqués d'une hyper‐ tension oculaire subaigue homolaterale, celle‐ci s'étant declaree 6 et 14 jours aprèks I'apparition des véksicules cutanPes et ayant précédé de 2 et de 8 jozlrs des signes évidents d'iridocyclite.
Intentional retention of Descemet's membrane in keratoplasty for the surgical treatment of bullous keratopathy
Authors: Loewenstein Anat , Geyer Orna , Lazar Moshe
Published: June 2009

Abstract We report on a modified keratoplasty procedure performed in 6 patients for the treatment of severe pseudophakic bullous keratopathy. While removing the host's cornea, the Descemet membrane was retained, and a full thickness graft sutured on top of it. Postoperatively, aqueous separated the host's Descemet membrane from the graft, thus forming a supernumerary anterior chamber. The graft remained clear in 5 of these patients during up to 28 months of follow‐up. We suggest that in some severely damaged and high risk eyes, where opening the anterior chamber might be associated with difficulties and complications, it could be worthwhile to perform an ‘extraocular’ procedure by retaining the host's Descemet membrane.
In vitro evaluation of bevacizumab toxicity on a retinal ganglion cell line
Authors: Sharma Rajesh K. , Chalam Kakarla V.
Published: June 2009

Purpose:  The effects of bevacizumab on cell viability and proliferation in a commonly used retinal ganglion cell line, RGC‐5, were examined.

Methods:  RGC‐5 cells were exposed to 0.1 mg/ml, 1 mg/ml and 2 mg/ml of commercially available bevacizumab in vitro. To examine the specificity of effects, cells were also cultured with increasing and comparable concentrations of proteins (increasing the concentration of proteins in the culture media by 0.1 mg/ml, 1 mg/ml and 2 mg/ml by using additional fetal bovine serum [FBS] and bovine serum albumin [BSA]). Cell proliferation was assessed using a WST‐1 kit, crystal violet staining and bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation. Cytotoxic effects were assessed by quantifying cell numbers in proliferation‐deficient RGC‐5 following exposure to bevacizumab using the WST‐1 kit, microscopic examination of cells stained with propidium iodide (PI) cells and flow cytometry for differential staining with PI.

Results:  Bevacizumab was not toxic to RGC‐5 cells in the tested concentrations. It had a stimulatory effect on cell proliferation. A stimulatory effect on proliferation was also noted when equivalent amounts of proteins from FBS or BSA were used, which suggests that bevacizumab may stimulate proliferation non‐specifically by increasing the protein contents of the cell growth environment.

Conclusions:  Results suggest that intravitreal injection of bevacizumab could alter the internal milieu of the eye by increasing protein concentrations to elicit functional responses in retinotypic cells. This may be especially relevant for cells outwith the control of vascular endothelial growth factor.
Clinical features and follow‐up results of pulsating polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy treated with photodynamic therapy
Authors: Byeon Suk Ho , Lew Young Ju , Lee Sung Chul , Kwon Oh Woong
Published: June 2009

Acta Ophthalmol. 2010: 88: 660–668

Purpose:  To report on the clinical course of pulsating polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT).

Methods:  A total of 63 eyes of 58 consecutive patients diagnosed with PCV, treated with PDT and followed up for at least 6 months were enrolled. Best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA), fluorescein angiography and high‐speed indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) using confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (HRA) were performed.

Results:  Of the 63 PCV eyes, 14 eyes (22.2%) of 14 patients were classified as having pulsating PCV. The mean age of pulsating PCV patients was 60.6 ± 7.0 years (48–69 years), which was younger than non‐pulsating PCV patients (65.7 years, p = 0.035). The mean follow‐up period was 23.9 ± 10.7 months, and PDT was administered 1.6 ± 0.9 times to pulsating PCV patients. The mean logMAR BCVAs were 0.85 ± 0.47 at presentation and 0.71 ± 0.52 at final examination. Extensive haemorrhagic events were more common in pulsating than in non‐pulsating PCV patients (57.1% versus 26.5%, p = 0.032). However, the risk of haemorrhage within 3 months of PDT was similar for both pulsating PCV and the remaining patients (14.3% versus 20%, p = 0.723).

Conclusion:  Pulsating PCV showed distinctive features including a relatively younger patient age at presentation, and a haemorrhagic tendency (especially extensive). However, the use of PDT did not directly increase the risk of haemorrhage in pulsating PCV patients.
Ultrasound assessment of short‐term ocular vascular effects of intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (Avastin®) in neovascular age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Bonnin Philippe , Pournaras Jean‐Antoine C. , Lazrak Zineb , Cohen Salomon Yves , Legargasson Jean‐François , Gaudric Alain , Levy Bernard I. , Massin Pascale
Published: June 2009

Acta Ophthalmol. 2010: 88: 641–645

Purpose:  Angiogenic inhibitors, alone or combined with other therapies, are believed to represent a promising treatment for neovascularization in age‐related macular degeneration (wet AMD). They can maintain or improve visual acuity (VA), at least for the first 2 years. However, evolution to retinal atrophy cannot be ruled out and it may be useful to assess the effects of antiangiogenic therapy on retinal and choroidal circulation.

Methods:  We carried out a pilot study in 15 patients with wet AMD. Time‐averaged mean blood flow velocities (BFVs) in the central retinal, temporal posterior ciliary and ophthalmic arteries (CRA, TPCA and OA) were measured by ultrasound imaging before and 4 weeks after a single intravitreal injection of 1.25 mg bevacizumab in 0.05 ml. Patients underwent two ophthalmic examinations, before and 4 weeks after injection, including VA measurement and optical coherence tomography (OCT3) examination.

Results:  In treated eyes, bevacizumab injection was followed by a significant improvement in VA (from 20/125 to 20/80; p = 0.0214), and a decrease in mean central macular thickness (from 392 ± 96 μm to 271 ± 50 μm; p = 0.0038). Mean BFV decreased by 10% in the CRA (p = 0.0226), 20% in the TPCA (p = 0.0026) and 20% in the OA (p = 0.0003). No effect was observed in fellow eyes.

Conclusions:  Intravitreal bevacizumab acutely improved VA and reduced central macular thickness in wet AMD. Ultrasound imaging revealed that BFVs decreased in all retrobulbar arteries, suggesting that after local diffusion, bevacizumab exerts a short‐term regional effect. Bevacizumab might therefore induce hypoperfusion of the whole eye, which may correspond to a vascular side‐effect.
Psychometric properties of visual functioning index using Rasch analysis
Authors: Gothwal Vijaya K. , Wright Thomas , Lamoureux Ecosse L. , Pesudovs Konrad
Published: June 2009

Acta Ophthalmol. 2010: 88: 797–803

Purpose:  The visual functioning index (VFI) was one of the first questionnaires developed using classical test theory to assess outcomes of cataract surgery. However, it was not Rasch‐validated. The objective of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the VFI using Rasch analysis in patients with cataract.

Methods:  The 11‐item VFI was self‐administered to 243 patients (mean age 73.9 years) drawn from a cataract surgery waiting list. We examined the response category thresholds, item fit statistics, differential item functioning and unidimensionality for the VFI and its three subscales.

Results:  Category thresholds were ordered. The person separation and reliability were low, indicating the poor discriminatory ability of the VFI. No items misfit but there was suboptimal targeting of item difficulty to patient ability. On the whole the items in the VFI were too easy for the sample. Only one item showed moderate differential item functioning.

Conclusion:  The VFI does not meet the stringent requirements of the Rasch model. However adding more items to suit the more able patients with cataract as well as those awaiting second‐eye cataract surgery could optimize the VFI.
How Do Scientists Respond to Anomalies? Different Strategies Used in Basic and Applied Science
Authors: Trickett Susan Bell , Trafton J. Gregory , Schunn Christian D.
Published: June 2009

We conducted two in vivo studies to explore how scientists respond to anomalies. Based on prior research, we identify three candidate strategies: mental simulation, mental manipulation of an image, and comparison between images. In Study 1, we compared experts in basic and applied domains (physics and meteorology). We found that the basic scientists used mental simulation to resolve an anomaly, whereas applied science practitioners mentally manipulated the image. In Study 2, we compared novice and expert meteorologists. We found that unlike experts, novices used comparison to address anomalies. We discuss the nature of expertise in the two kinds of science, the relationship between the type of science and the task performed, and the relationship of the strategies investigated to scientific creativity.
Measurement of Fluid Temperature Across Microscale Gap Using Two-Color Ratiometric Laser-Induced Fluorescence Technique in Combination With Confocal Microscopy
Authors: Jeong Dong Woon , Lee Chi Young , Lee Sang Yong
Published: June 2009

In the present work, for noninvasive measurement of the liquid temperature in microchannels, the two-color ratiometric laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) technique was combined with the confocal microscopy. By using this technique, the fluorescent light from the tiny volume around a focusing spot can be selectively detected, and it enables us to measure the local liquid temperatures even at the close vicinity of the walls. To check the general performance of this method, as the preliminary stage, a test section consisting of two horizontal plates in different temperatures, separated by a narrow gap filled with a mixture of rhodamine B (a temperature-sensitive dye) and methanol was made, and the temperature distribution was examined. Based on the relationship between the fluorescence intensity and the temperature, a linear temperature distribution across the gap (by conduction heat transfer) could be confirmed. However, the measured results were subject to external disturbances such as the excitation laser intensity fluctuation and the irregular reflection of the light from the glossy walls. Therefore, in the second stage, rhodamine 110 (a temperature-insensitive dye), having a different emission spectrum peak (520 nm) from the rhodamine B (575 nm), was added to the mixture. In principle, the external disturbance effects cancel out each other when the intensity ratio between rhodamine B and rhodamine 110 is considered (instead of taking data only with rhodamine B). To compensate a substantial reduction in the fluorescence intensity from rhodamine 110 by the re-absorption phenomenon within the liquid, which is inherent in using the two-color thermometry, dependency of the intensity ratio on the depth of the measuring point was examined as well. In summary, the two-color ratiometric confocal-LIF thermometry was found to be a very useful tool in measuring the local temperatures of the liquid flow field in microfluidic devices.
Determination of Heat Transfer in Ducts With Axial Conduction by Variational Calculus
Authors: Haji-Sheikh A.
Published: June 2009

This study uses a methodology based on the calculus of variation to determine the heat transfer in passages with two-dimensional velocity fields such as rectangular channels and in the presence of axial conduction. The mathematical procedure is presented and the subsequent numerical computations provide the Nusselt number values. To verify the accuracy of this numerical procedure, the Nusselt number values are acquired for parallel-plate channels and circular pipes and compared with similar data from the Graetz-type exact analyses. Then, rectangular passages are selected to show the capability and a square duct is used to study the domain of accuracy for this procedure. The results for small Peclet numbers lead to a simple correlation for determination of the bulk temperature and they compare well with those obtained from an asymptotic solution.
Subcooled Pool Boiling in Variable Gravity Environments
Authors: Raj Rishi , Kim Jungho , McQuillen John
Published: June 2009

Virtually all data to date regarding parametric effects of gravity on pool boiling have been inferred from experiments performed in low-g, 1g, or 1.8g conditions. The current work is based on observations of boiling heat transfer obtained over a continuous range of gravity levels (0g–1.8g) under subcooled liquid conditions (n-perfluorohexane, ΔTsub=26°C, and 1 atm), two gas concentrations (220 ppm and 1216 ppm), and three heater sizes (full heater-7×7 mm2, half heater-7×3.5 mm2, and quarter heater-3.5×3.5 mm2). As the gravity level changed, a sharp transition in the heat transfer mechanism was observed at a threshold gravity level. Below this threshold (low-g regime), a nondeparting primary bubble governed the heat transfer and the effect of residual gravity was small. Above this threshold (high-g regime), bubble growth and departure dominated the heat transfer and gravity effects became more important. An increase in noncondensable dissolved gas concentration shifted the threshold gravity level to lower accelerations. Heat flux was found to be heater size dependent only in the low-g regime.
Gibbs–Thomson Effect on Spherical Solidification in a Subcooled Melt
Authors: Lai Yeong-Cheng , Lai Chun-Liang , Tsai Hsieh-Chen
Published: June 2009

This study aims to investigate theoretically the growth of a spherical nucleus due to solidification in an infinite domain of a subcooled melt. The effects on the spherical growth due, respectively, to the subcooling, the Gibbs–Thomson condition, and the density-difference induced convection are analyzed and discussed systematically. With the Gibbs–Thomson effect considered, no exact solutions can be found easily. Thus, a binomial temperature distribution in the liquid phase is reasonably assumed to approximate the actual one with the satisfaction of the energy balance at the solidification front and other boundary conditions.
Numerical Study of Flow and Heat Transfer Enhancement by Using Delta Winglets in a Triangular Wavy Fin-and-Tube Heat Exchanger
Authors: Tian Liting , He Yaling , Chu Pan , Tao Wenquan
Published: June 2009

In this paper, three-dimensional numerical simulations with renormalization-group (RNG) k-ε model are performed for the air-side heat transfer and fluid flow characteristics of wavy fin-and-tube heat exchanger with delta winglet vortex generators. The Reynolds number based on the tube outside diameter varies from 500 to 5000. The effects of different geometrical parameters with varying attack angle of delta winglet (β=30 deg, β=45 deg, and β=60 deg), tube row number (2–4), and wavy angle of the fin (θ=0–20 deg) are examined. The numerical results show that each delta winglet generates a downstream main vortex and a corner vortex. The longitudinal vortices are disrupted by the downstream wavy trough and only propagate a short distance along the main flow direction but the vortices greatly enhance the heat transfer in the wake region behind the tube. Nusselt number and friction factor both increase with the increase in the attack angle β, and the case of β=30 deg has the maximum value of j/f. The effects of the tube row number on Nusselt number and friction factor are very small, and the heat transfer and fluid flow become fully developed very quickly. The case of θ=5 deg has the minimum value of Nusselt number, while friction factor always increases with the increase in wavy angle. The application of delta winglet enhances the heat transfer performance of the wavy fin-and-tube heat exchanger with modest pressure drop penalty.
Steady-Periodic Heating of a Cylinder
Authors: Cole Kevin D. , Crittenden Paul E.
Published: June 2009

Steady periodic heating is an important experimental technique for measurement of thermal properties. In these methods the thermal properties are deduced from a systematic comparison between the data (such as temperature) and a detailed thermal model. This paper addresses steady-periodic heat transfer on cylindrical geometries with application to thermal-property measurements. The method of Green's functions is used to provide a comprehensive collection of exact analytical expressions for temperature in cylinders. Five kinds of boundary conditions are treated for one-, two-, and three-dimensional geometries. For some geometries an alternate form of the Green's function is given, which can be used for improvement of series convergence and for checking purposes to produce highly accurate numerical values. Numerical examples are given.
Probabilistic Approach to Particle-Wall Contact Time in Fluidized Beds
Authors: Zarghami Reza , Mostoufi Navid , Sotudeh-Gharebagh Rahmat
Published: June 2009

The heat transfer between submerged surface and particles in fluidized bed is affected by particle migration to and from the exchanger surface. A new probabilistic model was developed for particle migration and particle-wall contact time distribution based on a classical gamma function. The existing models suggest a decrease in contact time by increasing the gas velocity. However, it has been experimentally shown that the contact time increases in turbulent regime by increasing the gas velocity. A theoretical probabilistic model was developed to represent such a trend. The model is in good agreement with the experimental data.
Numerical Study on Stagnation Point Heat Transfer by Jet Impingement in a Confined Narrow Gap
Authors: Zu Y. Q. , Yan Y. Y. , Maltson J.
Published: June 2009

In this paper, the heat transfer characteristics of a circular air jet vertically impinging on a flat plate near to the nozzle (H/d=1–6, where H is the nozzle-to-target spacing and d is the diameter of the jet) are numerically analyzed. The relative performance of seven turbulent models for predicting this type of flow and heat transfer is investigated by comparing the numerical results with available benchmark experimental data. It is found that the shear-stress transport (SST) k−ω model and the large Eddy simulation (LES) time-variant model can give better predictions for the performance of fluid flow and heat transfer; especially, the SST k−ω model should be the best compromise between computational cost and accuracy. In addition, using the SST k−ω model, the effects of jet Reynolds number (Re), jet plate length-to-jet diameter ratio (L/d), target spacing-to-jet diameter ratio (H/d), and jet plate width-to-jet diameter ratio (W/d) on the local Nusselt number (Nu) of the target plate are examined; a correlation for the stagnation Nu is presented.
Exact Solutions Corresponding to the Viscous Incompressible and Conducting Fluid Flow Due to a Porous Rotating Disk
Authors: Turkyilmazoglu Mustafa
Published: June 2009

A study is pursued in this paper for the evaluation of the exact solution of the steady Navier–Stokes equation, governing the incompressible viscous Newtonian, electrically conducting fluid flow motion over a porous disk, rotating at a constant angular speed. The three-dimensional equations of motion are treated analytically yielding to the derivation of exact solutions. The effects of the magnetic pressure number on the permeable flow field are better conceived from the exact velocity and induced magnetic field obtained. Making use of this solution, analytical formulas for the angular velocity and current density components, as well as for the magnetic wall shear stresses, are extracted. Interaction of the resolved flow field with the surrounding temperature is then analyzed via energy equation. The temperature field is shown to accord with the convection, viscous dissipation, and Joule heating. As a result, exact formulas are obtained for the temperature field, which takes different forms, depending on whether isothermal and adiabatic wall conditions or suction and blowing are considered.