bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation and characterization of stem cells from the human parathyroid gland
Authors: Shih Y‐R. V. , Kuo T. K. , Yang A‐H. , Lee O. K. , Lee C‐H.
Published: May 2009

Objectives:  Somatic stem cells can be obtained from a variety of adult human tissues. However, it was not clear whether human parathyroid glands, which secrete parathyroid hormones and are essential in maintaining homeostasis levels of calcium ions in the circulation, contained stem cells. We aimed to investigate the possibility of isolating such parathyroid‐derived stem cells (PDSC).

Materials and methods:  Surgically removed parathyroid glands were obtained with informed consent. Cell cytogenetics was used to observe chromosomal abnormalities. Surface phenotypes were characterized by flow cytometry. Telomerase repeat amplification protocol (TRAP) assay was performed to observe the telomerase activity. RT‐PCR and real‐time PCR was was used to detect gene expressions. Real‐time calcium uptake imaging was performed for extent of calcium uptake and transmission electron microscopy and immunofluorecent staining for smooth muscle actin.

Results:  After enzymatic digestion and primary culture, plastic‐adherent, fibroblast‐like cells appeared in culture and a morphologically homogeneous population was derived from subsequent limiting dilution and clonal expansion. Karyotyping was normal and doubling time of clonal cell growth was estimated to be 70.7 ± 14.5 h (mean ± standard deviation). The surface phenotype of the cells was positive for CD73, CD166, CD29, CD49a, CD49b, CD49d, CD44, CD105, and MHC class I, and negative for CD34, CD133, CD117, CD114, CD31, CD62P, EGF‐R, ICAM‐3, CD26, CXCR4, CD106, CD90 and MHC class II, similar to mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). Detectable levels of telomerase activity along with pluripotency Sall4 gene expression were observed from the isolated PDSCs. Expression of calcium‐sensing receptor gene along with alpha‐smooth muscle actin was induced and cellular uptake of extracellular calcium ions was observed. Furthermore, PDSCs possessed osteogenic, chondrogenic and adipogenic differentiation potentials.

Conclusions:  Our results reveal that PDSCs were similar phenotypically to MSCs and further studies are needed to formulate induction conditions to differentiate PDSCs into parathyroid hormone‐secreting chief cells.
Effect of raloxifene on vascular endothelial growth factor expression in breast carcinomas of postmenopausal women
Authors: Da Silva B. B. , Dos Santos A. R. , Pires C. G. , Lopes‐Costa P. V.
Published: May 2009

Objective:  This study aimed to evaluate the effect of raloxifene on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in breast carcinomas of postmenopausal women.

Materials and methods:  Sixteen postmenopausal patients with operable stage II, oestrogen receptor‐positive, infiltrating ductal breast carcinoma were treated with raloxifene at a dose of 60 mg/day, for a period of 28 days prior to definitive surgery. Tumour size varied from 3 to 5 cm (mean 3.7 cm) and mean age of patients was 61.8 years (range 49–72 years). Tumour samples were obtained by incisional biopsy at the time of diagnosis and again at the time of surgery. Immunohistochemical evaluation of VEGF expression was assessed semiquantitatively based on fraction of stained tumour cells and on intensity of staining. McNemar's test of symmetry was used to evaluate agreement between positive or negative classification of VEGF expression prior to and following raloxifene treatment (P < 0.05).

Results:  Fourteen of the 16 patients (88%) were classified as positive for VEGF expression prior to raloxifene treatment, while only 5 (31%) were classified as positive following treatment (P < 0.007).

Conclusion:  Raloxifene significantly reduced VEGF expression in these oestrogen receptor‐positive breast carcinomas of postmenopausal women.
Retention of nurses in the primary and community care workforce after the age of 50 years: database analysis and literature review
Authors: Storey Claire , Cheater Francine , Ford Jackie , Leese Brenda
Published: May 2009

Title.  Retention of nurses in the primary and community care workforce after theage of 50 years: database analysis and literature review.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study conducted to explore strategies for retaining nurses and their implications for the primary and community care nursing workforce.

Background.  An ageing nursing workforce has forced the need for recruitment and retention of nurses to be an important feature of workforce planning in many countries. However, whilst there is a growing awareness of the factors that influence the retention of nurses within secondary care services, little is known about those that influence retention of nurses in primary and community care. Little is known about the age profile of such nurses or the impact of the ageing nursing workforce on individual nursing specialities in the England.

Methods.  Nursing databases were analysed to explore the impact of age on nursing specialities in primary and community care. The nurse retention literature was reviewed from 1995 to 2006.

Findings.  Workforce statistics reveal that primary and community care nurses have a higher age profile than the National Health Service nursing workforce as a whole. However, there are important gaps in the literature in relation to the factors influencing retention of older primary and community care nurses. Specific factors exist for older nurses within primary care that are unique. Implications for their retention are suggested.

Conclusion.  Particular attention needs to be paid to factors influencing retention of older nurses in primary and community care. These factors need to be incorporated into local and national policy planning and development.
Resource allocation in a social wasp: effects of breeding system and life cycle on reproductive decisions
Authors: JOHNSON ELIZABETH L. , CUNNINGHAM TYLER W. , MARRINER SARAH M. , KOVACS JENNIFER L. , HUNT BRENDAN G. , BHAKTA DIMPAL B. , GOODISMAN MICHAEL A. D.
Published: May 2009

Organisms must make important decisions on how to allocate resources to reproduction. We investigated allocation decisions in the social waspVespula maculifronsto understand how social insects make reproductive choices. We first determined how annual colonies apportioned resources to growth and reproduction by analysing developing brood. In contrast to expectations, colonies invested in both growth (workers) and reproduction (males) simultaneously. In addition, colonies showed evidence of producing males in pulses and reversing their reproductive choices by decreasing investment in males late in the season. This reversal is consistent with theory suggesting that colonies decrease production in males if fitness of late emerging males is low. To further investigate reproductive decisions within colonies, we determined if the male mates of multiply‐mated queens varied in their reproductive success over time. Sperm use by queens did vary over time suggesting that male success may depend on sperm clumping within the female reproductive tract. Finally, we tested if colony sex ratio conformed to expectations under kin selection theory that nestmate relatedness would positively correlate with investment in new queens if workers controlled sex allocation. Surprisingly, the proportion of queens produced by colonies was negatively correlated with nestmate relatedness, suggesting that allocation may be shaped by advantages arising from increased genetic diversity resulting from multiple mating by queens. Overall, our study suggests that the reproductive decisions of colonies are flexible and may depend both on environmental cues arising from energetic needs of the colony and genetic cues arising from mating behaviours of queens.
Sensitivity of Magnaporthe grisea to the Sterol Demethylation Inhibitor Fungicide Propiconazole
Authors: Fang Minyan , Yan Leiyan , Wang Zhengyi , Zhang Degang , Ma Zhonghua
Published: May 2009

Baseline sensitivity of Magnaporthe grisea to a sterol demethylation inhibitor (DMI) propiconazole was determined using 52 wild‐type single‐spore isolates. The 50% effective concentrations of these 52 isolates to propiconazole ranged from 0.145 to 1.446 μg/ml. Among the 52 isolates, two (07–82 and 04–006) were hypersensitive to propiconazole. The propiconazole‐hypersensitive (PHS) isolates were also hypersensitive to another DMI fungicide triadimefon, but not to a benzimidazole fungicide carbendazim. Compared with the propiconazole‐sensitive (PS) isolates, the PHS isolates retained normal pathogenicity. Real‐time PCR analysis showed that expression of cyp51 gene in the PHS isolates was not significantly different from that in the PS isolates. Analysis of DNA sequence of cyp51 gene showed that the PHS isolates 07–82 and 04–006 had an amino acid substitution at the codon position 234 and 450, respectively, where the amino acids were conserved in the CYP51 of other fungi, which indicated that the substitutions in CYP51 might be related to hypersensitivity of M. grisea to DMI fungicides.
Genetic variability analysis in five populations of the sea cucumber Stichopus (Apostichopus) japonicus from China, Russia, South Korea and Japan as revealed by microsatellite markers
Authors: Chang Yaqing , Feng Zhigang , Yu Jiaping , Ding Jun
Published: May 2009

The genetic structure of populations of the sea cucumber Stichopus (Apostichopus) japonicus was investigated using 10 microsatellite markers. In all, 152 individuals from five natural populations were collected from Aomori, Japan (JA and JR), Yosu, South Korea (KY), Dalian, China (CD) and Vladivostock, Russia (RV). A total of 145 alleles were found at 10 loci. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 9 at PSC03 to 20 at SCZ06, with an average of 14.5. Average Ho and He ranged from 0.260 (JR) to 0.434 (JA) and from 0.654 (RV) to 0.778 (KY), respectively. No significant differences at A, Ho and He were found, indicating similar genetic diversity in the five populations. A single allele was found at the PSC05 locus in the RV population. Of the 50 loci, 42 significantly deviated from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium, all showing heterozygote deficiency. The genetic distances were all relatively great, ranging from 0.497 (between JA and KY) to 1.029 (between KY and JR). This suggests the five populations are genetically distinct. Cluster analysis indicated that JA, KY and CD form one branch and RV and JR another in the UPGMA tree. A hypothesis is proposed for the evolution of the Japanese red sea cucumbers and the genetic relationship among the populations.
Detection of Sex Chromosome Aneuploidy in Equine Spermatozoa Using Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization
Authors: Bugno M , Jablonska Z , Tischner M , Klukowska‐Rötzler J , Pienkowska‐Schelling A , Schelling C , Slota E
Published: May 2009

Contents

The aim of our study was to diagnose aneuploidy in equine spermatozoa by multicolour fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) technique using specific molecular probes for equine sex chromosomes and autosome pair four (EGFR probe) labeled by different fluorochromes. These were applied on decondensed spermatozoa of four stallions. In total, more than 8800 sperm cells were examined. The total frequency of aberrant cells was 0.496%: aneuploidy of XX (0.135%), YY (0.023%), XY (0.102%), diploidy (0.057%), lack of sex chromosome (0.18%). In one stallion the ratio of normal X‐ and Y‐bearing cells was different from the expected 1 : 1 ratio (p = 0.0002), in all three other stallions this ratio was close to 1 : 1. The present study demonstrated that the FISH technique is a powerful method to identify sex chromosome aberrations in equine spermatozoa and allows for the determination of the ratio between X–Y‐spermatozoa.
Highly specific responses to amine odorants of individual olfactory receptor neurons in situ
Authors: Gliem S. , Schild D. , Manzini I.
Published: May 2009

The main olfactory system of larval Xenopus laevis is made up of at least two subsystems consisting of subsets of olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs) with different transduction mechanisms. One ORN subset lacks the canonical cAMP transduction pathway and responds to amino acid odorants. The second subset has the cAMP transduction pathway but as yet suitable odorants are unknown. Here we report the identification of amines as proper olfactory stimuli for larval X. laevis using functional Ca2+ imaging and slice preparations of the olfactory system. The response profiles of individual ORNs to a number of amines were extremely complex and mostly highly specific. The great majority of amine‐sensitive ORNs responded also to forskolin, an activator of the olfactory cAMP transduction pathway. Most amine‐induced responses could be attenuated by the cyclic nucleotide‐gated channel inhibitor LY83583. This confirms that most amine‐responsive olfactory receptors (ORs) are coupled to the cAMP‐dependent transduction pathway. Furthermore, we show that trace amine‐associated receptors (TAARs), which have been shown to act as specific ORs for amines in mammals, are expressed in the olfactory organ of X. laevis. The TAARs expressed in Xenopus cannot, however, explain the complex responses of individual ORNs to amines because there are too few of them. This indicates that, in addition to TAARs, there must be other receptor families involved in the detection of amines.
On the mechanism of action of muscle fibre activity in synapse competition and elimination at the mammalian neuromuscular junction
Authors: Favero M. , Massella O. , Cangiano A. , Buffelli M.
Published: May 2009

Activity‐dependent competition plays a crucial role in the refinement of synaptic connections in the peripheral and central nervous system. The reduction in number of axons innervating each neuromuscular junction during development, i.e. synapse elimination, appears to be one such competitive activity‐driven event. Recently, we showed that asynchronous firing of competing presynaptic terminals is a key player in synapse elimination. Although some previous studies suggested that activity of the postsynaptic cell may be an intermediary in the disposal of redundant presynaptic inputs, the mechanism involved remains unknown. In the present study, in order to assess the role of evoked muscle activity in this process, we inhibited the generation of postsynaptic action potentials in muscle fibers in vivo, through the overexpression of inwardly rectifying Kir2.1 and Kir2.2 channels, via electroporation of the soleus muscle in the mouse hindlimb. Electrophysiological and morphological data show that overexpression of potassium channels in the endplate region of neonatal muscle fibres induces membrane hyperpolarization and an increase in conductance, inhibition of the action potential mechanism and prolonged persistence of polyneuronal innervation. These changes are not seen in muscle fibres with overexpression of a non‐conducting Kir2.1 mutant. Our results are compatible with the interpretation that the block of action potential generation, even in single endplates, can inhibit synapse elimination through local signalling.
The impact of content area focus on the effectiveness of a web‐based simulation
Authors: Adcock Amy B. , Duggan Molly H. , Watson Ginger S. , Belfore Lee A.
Published: May 2009

This paper describes an assessment of a web‐based interview simulation designed to teach empathetic helping skills. The system includes an animated character acting as a client and responses designed to recreate a simulated role‐play, a common assessment method used for teaching these skills. The purpose of this study was to determine whether learning gains found in previous evaluations would transfer to students needing similar skill sets but in different areas of study. Findings indicate a positive trend in learning gains across both areas of study (human services and counselling) with no significant differences in skill acquisition. Developers of the system conclude that the system is effective in the general training of empathetic helping skills regardless of the students' area of study.
A simple, low‐cost stereographic video capture and viewing solution for teaching psychomotor skills using online delivery
Authors: White Ian
Published: May 2009

It is recognised that the teaching of complex psychomotor skills using online delivery is difficult without the support of either face‐to‐face coaching and tuition or a stereoscopic viewing system that provides users with a feel for the spatial nature of the skills being taught. To date, the limitations of bandwidth, and the high cost and sophistication of existing three‐dimensional video production and viewing technologies have limited the use of stereoscopic video imaging to highly funded fields, such as sports and medical research or military applications. The advent of desktop video editing software, along with personal video players (such as the Apple iPod and iPhone) with small screens utilising efficient video codecs, means that high‐quality video podcasts can now be effectively created and delivered via the Internet. Combining these new video technologies with a conventional analogue stereo viewing and capture system makes the production of stereoscopic video potentially much more accessible to educators as a practical teaching tool. This paper seeks to alert educational designers to an exploratory study into a potentially useful methodology for the capture, production, dissemination and viewing of stereoscopic video images using existing, low‐cost technologies. Aside from the production of a simple viewer, the process is straightforward and requires only basic and readily available equipment. Applications in education as well as vocational and sports training are self‐evident.
Change point detection in scale family distributions
Authors: Habibi Reza
Published: May 2009

Change point detection in scale parameter is studied. The test statistic is given and its asymptotic distribution is studied. The infinite variance case is also surveyed. A real data set is considered.
Bilateral innervation of syringeal muscles by the hypoglossal nucleus in the jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos)
Authors: Tsukahara Naoki , Kamata Naoki , Nagasawa Miyuki , Sugita Shoei
Published: May 2009

Bird vocalizations are produced by contractions of syringeal muscles, which are controlled by the hypoglossal nucleus. In oscines, syringeal muscles are controlled by the hypoglossal nucleus ipsilaterally, whereas syringeal innervation is bilateral in non‐oscines. We have determined the course of hypoglossal nerves in the jungle crow Corvus macrorhynchos. Our results indicate a cross‐over of the hypoglossal nerve from the left side to the right side on the trachea 7 mm rostral to the Musculus sternotrachealis. We also investigated the innervation of the syringeal muscles of jungle crows from the hypoglossal nucleus using the horseradish peroxidase (HRP) method. After HRP was injected into the syringeal muscles on each side, HRP‐labeled cells were found bilaterally in the hypoglossal nerve. These results suggest that the syringeal muscles of jungle crows are innervated bilaterally from the hypoglossal nucleus, although these birds are categorized as oscines.
Real‐time visualization of cytoplasmic calpain activation and calcium deregulation in acute glutamate excitotoxicity
Authors: Gerencser Akos A. , Mark Karla A. , Hubbard Alan E. , Divakaruni Ajit S. , Mehrabian Zara , Nicholls David G. , Polster Brian M.
Published: May 2009

Although calpain (EC 3.4.22) protease activation was suggested to contribute to excitotoxic delayed calcium deregulation (DCD) via proteolysis of Na+/Ca2+ exchanger 3 (NCX3), cytoplasmic calpain activation in relation to DCD has never been visualized in real‐time. We employed a calpain fluorescence resonance energy transfer substrate to simultaneously image calpain activation and calcium deregulation in live cortical neurons. A calpain inhibitor‐sensitive decline in fluorescence resonance energy transfer was observed at 39 ± 5 min after the occurrence of DCD in neurons exposed to continuous glutamate (100 μM). Inhibition of calpain by calpeptin did not delay the onset of DCD, recovery from DCD‐like reversible calcium elevations, or cell death despite inhibiting α‐spectrin processing by > 90%. NCXs reversed during glutamate exposure, the NCX antagonist KB‐R7943 prolonged the time to DCD, and significant NCX3 cleavage following 90 min of glutamate exposure was not observed. Our findings suggest that robust calpain activation associated with acute glutamate toxicity occurs only after a sustained loss in calcium homeostasis. Processing of NCX3 or other calpain substrates is unlikely to be the primary cause of acute excitotoxicity in cortical neurons. However, a role for calpain as a contributing factor or in response to milder glutamate insults is not excluded.
Children’s experiences of attitudes and rules for going to the toilet in school
Authors: Lundblad Barbro , Hellström Anna‐Lena , Berg Marie
Published: May 2009

Scand J Caring Sci; 2010; 24; 219–223
 
Children′s experiences of attitudes and rules for going to the toilet in school

Introduction:  School children often base their toilet habits on behavioural and social reasons. Bladder emptying problems, urinary tract infections and constipation are common health problems which are also associated with irregular toilet habits. School rules for going to the toilet have been shown to create difficulties for school children with bladder dysfunction. Aim of this study was to describe children’s experiences of school rules for going to the toilet and their significance for the children.

Methods:  Individual open‐ended questions with 19 schoolchildren aged 9–16 in elementary schools.

Results:  To manage the children’s toilet needs, teachers used rules designed for maintaining order in the classroom. The children saw their toilets needs as a private matter and experienced it complicated to go to the toilet during recess as time was short and the risk for violation of their integrity was at its highest. The most frustrating when to comply with rules during lessons was to be forced to, in front of all their classmates, make public the need to go to the toilet: i.e the most private was exposed to the disclosure.

Conclusion:  The rules for going to the toilet came from the teachers’ need for maintaining order in the classroom and were not adapted to the children’s physical and developmental needs. To violate the integrity of children can affect their willingness to go to the school toilet which in turn affects their wellbeing during school time.
Geobiological investigations using secondary ion mass spectrometry: microanalysis of extant and paleo‐microbial processes
Authors: ORPHAN V. J. , HOUSE C. H.
Published: May 2009

The application of secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) has tremendous value for the field of geobiology, representing a powerful tool for identifying the specific role of micro‐organisms in biogeochemical cycles. In this review, we highlight a number of diverse applications for SIMS and nanoSIMS in geobiological research. SIMS performs isotope and elemental analysis at microscale enabling the investigation of the physiology of individual microbes within complex communities. Additionally, through the study of isotopic or chemical characteristics that are common in both living and ancient microbial communities, SIMS allows for direct comparisons of potential biosignatures derived from extant microbial cells and their fossil equivalents.
Impact of Thienopyridine Administration Prior to Primary Stenting in Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: RABBANI LEROY E. , IYENGAR SRINIVAS , DANGAS GEORGE D. , GRINES CINDY L. , COX DAVID A. , GARCIA EULOGIO , TCHENG JAMES E. , GRIFFIN JOHN J. , GUAGLIUMI GIULIO , STUCKEY THOMAS , TURCO MARK , STANT JENNIFER , FAHY MARTIN , LANSKY ALEXANDRA J. , MEHRAN ROXANA , STONE GREGG W.
Published: May 2009

The impact of thienopyridine administration prior to primary stenting in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) has not been well studied. We therefore examined the database from the prospective, multicenter, controlled CADILLAC trial in which 1,036 patients were randomized to bare metal stenting with or without abciximab to determine whether patients who received a thienopyridine prior to bare metal stenting in AMI had superior clinical outcomes. Per operator discretion, 659 patients (63.6%; Th+) received either a 500 mg ticlopidine loading dose (n = 623) or a 300 mg clopidogrel loading dose (n = 40), while 377 patients (36.4%; Th‐) received no thienopyridine prior to stent implantation. Baseline and procedural characteristics of the two groups, including abciximab use (52.5% vs 52.8%, P = 0.93) were well matched. Th+ compared to Th‐ patients had lower rates of core lab assessed TIMI 0/1 flow postprocedure (0.8% vs 2.7%, P = 0.01). Th+ compared to Th‐ patients also had significantly reduced in‐hospital and 30‐day rates of ischemic target vessel revascularization (TVR) (1.1% vs 3.2%, P = 0.01 and 1.5% vs 3.8%, P = 0.02, respectively) and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) (2.7% vs 5.8%, P = 0.01 and 4.0% vs 6.9%, P = 0.03, respectively), results that remained significant after covariate adjustment. In conclusion, in this large prospective, controlled trial, patients receiving a thienopyridine prior to primary stenting in AMI were less likely to have TIMI 0/1 flow postprocedure and experienced reduced in‐hospital and 30‐day rates of ischemic TVR and MACE compared to those not administered a thienopyridine prior to stent implantation.
An appraisal of the accuracy of Littmann's method of determining the real dimension of a retinal object
Authors: Barr D. B.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Estimation of the neuroretinal rim area in absolute units is becoming increasingly desirable in the evaluation of optic discs of glaucoma suspects. There are various methods of optic disc biometry, photogrammetric techniques being the most commonly reported. Any method of estimation of the real dimension of a retinal object must consider magnification due to the patient's eye. Photogrammetric techniques use Littmann's method extensively in this respect, assuming that it is an accurate way of performing the necessary correction. The accuracy of Littmann's method has not yet been assessed in a physiological setting. This study has found that, when the normal distributions of the optical elements eye are considered, in estimating the neuroretinal rim area, the method is at least 86% accurate (95% confidence interval) within an ametropia range ‐ 4 to + 4 dioptres. This level of accuracy should be considered when drawing conclusions from any study in which Littmann's method is used.
Current problems in the management of ROP
Authors: Schulenburg W. Edmund , Bloom Philip A.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Guidelines for screening for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and indications for treatment are well established, but implementation of screening and delivery of treatment may be problematical. We have performed a national survey of 118 specialised units dealing with at risk neonates to audit current practice in Britain and to identify practical problems with screening and with treatment. A screening policy for neonates at risk is in practice at 97% of units, performed by consultant ophthalmologists in 86% of centres. Units referred to specialised treatment centres in 23% of cases. An average of 54 infants at risk of ROP were screened by each of 118 units throughout Britain in 1993, and approximately 3% of these infants underwent treatment for ROP. Cryotherapy was used for treatment in 85% of units, laser photocoagulation in 51% and both treatment modalities were used in 36% of units. Less than 1/4 of the neonatologists polled were of the opinion that they should be trained to screen for ROP themselves. These results show that the screening guidelines have been successfully implemented in Britain, but demonstrate a wide variation in practice. Problems with screening and treatment are discussed.
Screening for ocular dysfunction in children: Approaching a common program
Authors: Lennerstrand Gunnar , Jakobsson Peter , Kvarnström Gun
Published: May 2009

Abstract.According to the general principles of screening, detection of visual impairment in children is worthwhile, since the condition is a serious health problem, reliable diagnostic tests are available and effective treatment is possible in most instances of ocular and visual dysfunction. However, an evaluation of the screening procedures has not been properly done and the cost‐benefit of screening has not been studied. The aim of the present study is to perform a systematic analysis of the screening programs for detection of visual dysfunction. In the screening two parts can be separated, one that concerns the more serious ocular and visual conditions which have to be discovered by general survey methods very early in life, and one that involves detection of less serious conditions, mainly amblyopia, which can be diagnosed by testing for monocular reduction of visual acuity at about 3–4 years of age. The performance characteristics of the screening programs used in Sweden and Canada were evaluated and found to be very favourable. Based on the analysis and the evaluation, recommendations are made on programs for vision screening in children that could be applied more widely. The program could involve all or parts of the following:

A careful inspection of the eyes in the neonatal period and preferably also examination of the red reflex with the ophthalmoscope.

Children at high risk for ocular and visual disorder, i.e. those born prematurely before 32 weeks of age, or with genetic disease, hearing deficit and/or neurological and mental disorder, should be examined at the proper age by an ophthalmologist.

All staff at pediatric departments and child health care centers should be familiar with the visual development of the normal baby and should be alerted to the various symptoms and signs which first warn parents that there may be a visual defect. An inspection of the eyes to detect squint should be part of all pediatric examinations.

A screening test of monocular visual acuity in 4 year‐old children can be reliably performed by non‐ophthalmic personnel after proper training. The screening test should be repeated by school nurses during the first grade of school, and at regular intervals during the school years.

The children that screen positively should be seen by ophthalmologists, and in some cases by orthoptists, without undue delay for diagnosis and treatment.
Midline craniofacial defects and morning glory disc anomaly. A distinct clinical entity
Authors: Leitch R. J. , Winter R. M.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT A case with a severe midline craniofacial defect, comprising a midline cleft lip and palate with a sphenoethmoidal encephalocele, hypertelorism, bilateral dysplastic optic discs and agenesis of the corpus callosum is described. The optic discs are consistent with the spectrum of appearances seen in the Morning Glory Disc Anomaly (MGDA). This anomaly is usually a uniocular problem that may be rarely associated with craniofacial abnormalities. Despite this range of abnormalities this child was developing well with a specific motor delay at the age of eight months. Cases with similar midline craniofacial abnormalities from the literature are reviewed. This condition appears to be a distinct entity within the spectrum of frontonasal dysplasia.
Full‐field electroretinograms in infants with hereditary tapetoretinal degeneration
Authors: Andréasson Sten , Ponjavic Vesna
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Full‐field electroretinograms were recorded from four infants (under the age of 12 months), with different types of tapetoretinal degeneration. Some of these patients, appear to have normal fundi. This article stresses the clinical usefulness of evaluation with electroretinography in young children.
Ultrasonic evaluation of microphthalmos and coloboma
Authors: Fledelius Hans C.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Three cases of ophthalmic malformations are discussed from the standpoint of the usefulness of ultrasound evaluation, however with respectful reference to the revised classification of microphthalmos and coloboma presented by Warburg 1993. The main findings were, (case 1): microphthalmos with iris coloboma, unilateral posterior orbital cyst, and mental retardation, karyotype normal, consanguineous parents, (case 2) trisomy 13 with extreme microphthalmos and cheilo‐gnatho‐palatoschisis, and (case 3) ringchromosome 14, posterior fundus colobomas, and malformation of the heart, with features corresponding to the CHARGE association.
The clinical and genetic heterogeneity of autosomal dominant cataract
Authors: Ionides Alexander , Berry Vanita , Moore Tony , Bhattacharya Shomi , Shiels Alan
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT As part of a linkage study we have reviewed over 150 patients with autosomal dominant cataract and suggest a clinical classification of the different phenotypes consisting of anterior and posterior polar, nuclear, cortical, blue‐dot, lamellar, coralliform and pulverulent cataracts.
The cause of death in Laurence‐Moon‐Bardet‐Biedl syndrome
Authors: Riise Ruth
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The certificates of death of 14 deceased patients with Laurence‐Moon‐Bardet‐Biedl (LMBB) syndrome, in which retinal dystrophy is a dominant feature, were reviewed. Death occurred at a considerably younger age than in the general population. Renal disease was noted as primary or contributing cause of death in 7 cases with the diagnoses: cyst of the kidney, renal sclerosis, renal failure, proteinuria, renal disease unspecified and malignant hypertension with renal involvement. It is concluded that renal involvement is characteristic of individuals with LMBB syndrome and seems to reduce life expectancy considerably.
Normal tension glaucoma: A ten‐year follow‐up
Authors: Giraldi J. Pecori , De Benedetti G. , Santarelli S. , Liguori A. , Mollicone A.
Published: May 2009

The authors describe the results obtained in 10 years of observation of a group of 41 eyes affected by normal tension glaucoma. An evolution of perimetric defects was found in 29.26% of the eyes examined.
Estimating glaucomatous anatomical damage by computerized automated perimetry
Authors: Brusini Paolo
Published: May 2009

The ability of two methods (the Glaucoma Staging System and the Functional Score index) in estimating anatomical damage from automated visual field data was studied in 100 patients with chronic open‐angle glaucoma. The level of association between functional and anatomical loss (classified by cup/disk ratio assessment) was satisfactory in both systems. Both the GSS (Glaucoma Staging System) and the FS (Functional Score) could be useful for estimating and quantifying the glaucomatous anatomical damage, both in the day‐to‐day clinical practice and in research.
The use of flunarizine in the management of low‐tension glaucoma: A Color Doppler study
Authors: Cellini M. , Possati G. L. , Caramazza N. , Profazio V. , Caramazza R.
Published: May 2009

The authors assess the efficacy of flunarizine in improving blood flow and perimetric indices in low‐tension glaucoma (LTG). A group of 20 patients with LTG well‐compensated by medical treatment underwent Color Doppler Imaging (CDI) of the ophthalmic artery and posterior ciliary arteries with peak systolic velocity (PSV) and Purcelot's index (PI) evaluation. Computerized perimetry was also performed to assess MD, SF and CPSD. The parameters were measured before and after three months' therapy with flunarizine.

Data before and after flunarizine treatment were: Ophthalmic artery — PSV 33.261±1.628 cm/sec vs 35.746±0.800 cm/sec (p<0.001); PI 0.697±0.017 vs 0.627±0.031 (p<0.001); Posterior ciliary arteries — PSV 9.385±0.751 cm/sec vs 10.738±1.566 cm/sec (p<0.005); PI 0.673±0.056 vs 0.589±0.023 (p<0.001).

The perimetric indices were modified as follows: MD ‐11.002±6.574 vs ‐6.604±6.426 (p<0.006); SF 5.05±5.717 vs 2.937±1.780 (p<0.193); CPSD 10.198±13.392 vs 3.445±2.709 (p<0.093).

Oral administration of flunarizine, a calcium channel‐blocker which acts at a vascular and neuronal level, improves the blood flow indices for the optic nerve, improving thereby the perimetric indices in LTG.
Molecular basis of open‐angle glaucoma in Italy
Authors: Angius A. , Pisano M. , Manca A. , Casu G. , Persico I. , Pitzalis S. , De Gioia E. , Grignolo F. M. , Loi A. , Sole G. , Cao A. , Spinelli P. , Ghillotti G. , Bonomi L. , Fossarello M. , Serra A. , Gandolfi S. , Alberti G. , Maraini G. , Serru A. , Orzalesi N. , Pirastu M.
Published: May 2009

Glaucoma is a group of ocular diseases characterized by an optic neuropathy in which degeneration of retinal ganglion cells leads to a characteristic excavation of the optic nerve head. Primary openangle glaucoma (POAG) can be subdivided into two groups according to age of onset:‐

1. the more common middle‐to late‐age onset, chronic open‐angle glaucoma (COAG) diagnosed after the age of 40 years;

2. the rarer juvenile open‐angle glaucoma (JOAG), which is diagnosed between the age of 3 years and early adulthood.

Recently, the gene coding for the trabecular meshwork‐induced glucocorticoid response protein (TIGR), located in chromosome 1 (lq23‐25), was found mutated in patients affected by POAG. In this work we describe the clinical and molecular genetic features of several Italian families affected by autosomal dominant POAG, collected in various regions of Italy.
Pattern electroretinogram and optic nerve topography in ocular hypertension
Authors: Colotto A. , Salgarello T. , Falsini B. , Buzzonetti L. , Cesari L. , Errico D. , Scullica L.
Published: May 2009

It is known that changes in pattern electroretinogram (PERG) and optic disk morphology may both precede the onset of visual field damage in glaucomatous disease. However, the relationship between PERG and optic disk morphometry in ocular hypertension (OHT) has not yet been evaluated in detail. This study of PERG amplitude in a group of OHT patients indicates its significant correlation with various optic disk morphometric parameters, in particular, those of optic disk sectors considered at risk for early glaucomatous damage. Analysis of individual data points to the possibility that, while functional abnormalities may often precede optic disk morphologic changes, in a much lower number of cases it seems to be the other way around.
Clinical use of a topical carbonic anhydrase inhibitor in patients affected by chronic simple glaucoma
Authors: D'Andrea A. , D'Andrea D. , Ferreri G.
Published: May 2009

The aim of this study is to evaluate the ocular hypotensive efficacy of a topical carbonic anhydrase inhibitor (dorzolamide) in primary open‐angle glaucoma patients, administered alone or in association with beta‐blockers or with beta‐blockers and miotics, in a one‐year follow‐up.
Latanoprost 0.005% in POAG: effects on IOP and ocular blood flow
Authors: Vetrugno M. , Cantatore F. , Gigante G. , Cardia L.
Published: May 2009

The scope of this work was to evaluate the effect on ocular pressure and on ocular blood flow of latanoprost 0.005% eye‐drops.

Included in the study were 12 patients (24 eyes) with POAG, aged between 37 and 48 years, non‐smokers, refractions between ±3D, Haemorrheological parameters within normal, not in ocular or systemic vasoactive therapy. Each patient had one eye treated with latanoprost 0.005% and the other with timolol 0.05%. The choroidal perfusion was measured by Langham's POBF system during the first day of therapy and then after 7, 15, 30, 60, 90 and 180 days.

The maximum pressure decrease after the first administration of latanoprost was at the twelfth hour; after 6 months of therapy, mean IOP reduction was 32.6%. POBF values increased up to 55.8% in the first day and then settled at 22.6% at the end of the study. Timolol showed a similar pressure progress, but its haematic perfusion values were distinctly lower.

In conclusion, latanoprost is efficacious in POAG therapy since it unites a positive optic nerve head perfusion effect with hypotensive efficacy.
Cyclosporine C: a study of wound‐healing modulation after trabeculectomy in rabbit
Authors: Nuzzi R. , Cerruti A. , Finazzo C.
Published: May 2009

The authors studied the clinical and histological effects of cyclosporine instilled after filtering surgery. Its efficacy and variety of advantages compared to other antimitotic agents encourage its use.
Human freedom and the brain
Authors: Kornhuber Hans Helmut
Published: May 2009

Freedom of will does exist, it is self-leadership of man based on reason and ethos. Evidence comes from truth. Determinism cannot be proved since if you try, you mean to prove a truth; but there is no truth without freedom. By contrast for freedom there are many pieces of evidence e.g. science, arts, technology.

Freedom utilizes creative abstract thinking with phantasy. Freedom is graded, limited, based on nature, but not developed without good will. We perceive reliably freedom by self-consciousness and in other persons as long as we are sober. Freedom needs intelligence, but is more, it is a creative and moral virtue.

The basis for freedom is phylogenesis and culture, in the individual learning and experimenting. Factors in the becoming of freedom are not only genes and environment but also self-discipline. But the creativity of free will is dangerous. Man therefore needs morale. Drives and feelings become humanized, cultural interests are developed. There is a humane nobility from long good will.
Demographic Change and Economic Growth in Asia
Authors: BLOOM David E. , FINLAY Jocelyn E.
Published: May 2009

Trade openness, high savings rates, human capital accumulation, and macroeconomic policy only accounted for part of the 1965–1990 growth performance in East Asia. Subsequently, demographic change was shown to be a missing factor in explaining the East Asian growth premium. Since 1990, East Asia has undertaken major economic reforms in response to financial crises and other factors. We reexamine the role of the demographic transition in contributing to cross‐country differences in economic growth through to 2005, with a particular focus on East Asia. We highlight the need for policy to offset potential negative effects of aging populations in the future.
Parasites of the Nile rat in rural and urban regions of Sudan
Authors: FAGIR Dina M. , EL‐RAYAH El‐Amin
Published: May 2009

In this investigation on endoparasites (helminths) and ectoparasites of the Nile rat (Arvicanthis niloticus Desmarest, 1822), a total of 220 Nile rats were trapped from different regions of Sudan during the period January 2003–January 2006. Examination of different tissues, identification of parasites, effect of these parasites on the organs, the prevalence and intensity of infestation of the parasites and their relation to the habitat of the host, and sex‐related infestations were considered. Results showed that the variation among helminth species was wide, especially in those that are transferred by arthropods. No protozoan parasites or distortion in the infected tissues were observed. No examination for Toxoplasma gondii was carried out. Two species of cestodes (Hymenolepis nana, Hymenolepis diminuta), two genera (Raillietina sp. I, Raillietina sp. II) and one unidentified Hymenolepididae were reported. The most prevalent species of cestodes was Raillietina sp. And for nematodes only one species and one genus were recovered (Monanema nilotica and Streptopharagus sp.). Investigation of skin revealed that 83.8% of rats were infested with one or more of ectoparasites; namely, insects and arachnids. This survey also revealed that fleas and lice were the most common ectoparasites that infested the Nile rat. Synanthropic rodents, particularly those living in close association with man, play a significant role in human health, welfare and economy. It has to be stressed that their arthropod ectoparasites are important vectors of pathogenic microorganisms and they can also be important reservoirs for parasitic zoonoses, like trichinellosis and capillariosis. No doubt, the increase in rodent populations could be followed by an increase in zoonotic diseases (Stojcevic et al. 2004, Durden et al. 2000). Rats and mice (commensal and wild) play an important role in public health, being carriers or reservoirs for infectious diseases that can be transmitted to humans (zoonoses). Xenopsylla cheopis is the most important vector of plague and the rickettsial infection murine typhus (Gratz 1999). Man can also acquire the infection through direct contact with infected animals' tissues (WHO 1987). Arvicanthis niloticus, Mastomys natalensis and Rattus rattus are probably the most important and widespread reservoirs of plague in Kenya: 10 percent of all Rattus rattus tested were found to be positive as compared to 12% of the Arvicanthis niloticus (Gratz 1999).
Corridor use by Asian elephants
Authors: PAN Wenjing , LIN Liu , LUO Aidong , ZHANG Li
Published: May 2009

There are 18 km of Kunming–Bangkok Highway passing through the Mengyang Nature Reserve of Xishuangbanna National Nature Reserve in Yunnan Province, China. From September 2005 to September 2006 the impact of this highway on movement of wild Asian elephants between the eastern and western part of the nature reserve was studied using track transecting, rural surveys and direct monitoring. Our results showed that the number of crossroad corridors used by Asian elephants diminished from 28 to 23 following the construction of the highway. In some areas, the elephant activity diminished or even disappeared, which indicated a change in their home ranges. The utilization rate of artificial corridors was 44%. We also found that elephants prefered artificial corridors that were placed along their original corridors. During the research, wild elephants revealed their adaptation to the highway. They were found walking across the highway road surface many times and for different reasons. We suggest that the highway management bureau should revise their management strategies to mitigate the potential risks caused by elephants on the road for the safety of the public and to protect this endangered species from harm. It is also very important to protect and maintain current Asian elephants corridors in this region.
Three therapeutic tendencies for secondary prevention of myocardial infarction and possible role of Chinese traditional patent medicine: viewpoint of evidence‐based medicine
Authors: Shang Hongcai , Chen Jing , Zhang Junhua , Xiang Yaozu , Cao Hongbo , Ren Ming , Wang Hui , Xu Hongjuan , Li Jing , Liu Dan , Hu Jing , Wu Chao , Jing Li , Zhang Boli
Published: May 2009

Objective The possibility of the preventive and therapeutic effects of Chinese traditional patent medicine for myocardial infarction has been reported in the literature, but there have been few studies. This paper presents three tendencies for the secondary prevention of myocardial infarction and presents a systematic evaluation of current research evidence related to the use of Chinese traditional patent medicine in secondary prevention of myocardial infarction, with a goal of making objective recommendations for patient rehabilitation.

Method Literature was retrieved from traditional Chinese medicine websites, MEDLINE, CNKI, VIP, CINAHL, The Cochrane Library, EMBASE, HealthSTAR, and Academic ASAP to locate research‐based scientific evidence related to the use of Chinese traditional patent medicine for myocardial infarction.

Results Some Chinese traditional patent medicine therapies alone or in combination with routine rehabilitation therapies might be useful in patients with myocardial infarction, but we found insufficient evidence to support the use of most Chinese traditional patent medicine therapies in the secondary prevention of myocardial infarction.

Conclusion Difficulty in accessing information regarding traditional Chinese medicine has implications for health education in both myocardial infarction and patient safety. Some Chinese traditional patent medicine therapies hold promise for patients in the secondary prevention of myocardial infarction but further research is essential in all areas of traditional Chinese medicine to confirm its efficacy.