bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mycotic keratitis by Fusarium moniliforme
Authors: Pagliarusco A. , Tomazzoli L. , Amalfitano G. , Polonelli L. , Bonomi L.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT We report on a case of keratitis with hypopion by Fusarium monilinforme, in a patient with palpebral retraction and light exophthalmos caused by hyperthyroidism. We emphasize the importance of the microscopic examination of bioptic material and the identification of fungal species: the first permits an early diagnosis, the second the adoption of a targeted and effective therapy. In our case, the ocular infection was successfully treated with antimycotic drugs used topically.
Visual field defects in diabetic children without retinopathy
Authors: Mastropasqua Leonardo , Verrotti Alberto , Lobefalo Lucio , Chiarelli Francesco , Verdesca Gianmaria , Morgese Guido
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The effects of diabetes on retinal function before the onset of clinically detectable retinopathy have been investigated with several methods. Our aim is to evaluate the usefulness of computerized perimetry in early diagnosis of retinal sensitivity impairment in lack of fluorescein angiographic signs of diabetic retinopathy. Seventy diabetic children and adolescents, 39 normoalbuminuric and 31 microalbuminuric patients, and 70 normal subjects were investigated with static computerized perimetry. Normoalbuminuric patients showed functional parameters similar to those of controls, while microalbuminuric patients had a significant reduction of mid‐peripheral light sensitivity in comparison with both normoalbuminuric children and controls. Our data suggest that an impaired light sensitivity, in mid‐periphery of the visual field, is present in diabetic patients with persistent microalbuminuria.
Cataract development in adult bone marrow transplant recipients
Authors: Calissendorff B. M. , Lönnqvist B. , el Azazi M.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT In a prospective study, adult patients treated with bone marrow transplantation were examined with respect to cataract development. There were 99 patients with a survival of at least one year. Ten of them had aplastic anemia and the rest had various hematological malignancies. Mean follow‐up time was 3.9 years (range 1–10). All in the hematological malignancies group but none in the aplastic anemia group, were conditioned with irradiation. Cytostatic drugs were administered in all cases. Depending on the type of disease and its reaction to bone marrow transplantation, steroid treatment was sometimes indicated. Cataract did not occur in any of the 10 patients treated for aplastic anemia, whereas all patients with hematological malignancies had developed cataract after 4 years' observation. Most patients in the hematological malignancies group already showed lens opacifications after 2 years. Cataract surgery on the first eye was performed in 39 cases, a median of 3.7 years after bone marrow transplantation. Cataract development was clearly correlated to radiation. No relationship was found to other conditioning treatments, although a synergistic effect is possible.
Macula study with standardized echography
Authors: Cennamo G. , Rosa N. , La Rana A. , Pasquariello A. , Iaccarino G.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT At an early clinical stage, patients with cystoid macular oedema show no significant changes in their vision. This phase is described as angiographic cystoid macular oedema. Echographic macular studies have in the past years shown that the macular thickness is increased in the early stages of cystoid macular oedema. In these patients there was no evidence of cystoid macular oedema with the visual acuity test, B‐scan echography and fluorescein angiography. In this paper an echographic macular study by standardized A‐scan echography was performed in 537 patients before extracapsular cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation in posterior chamber (ciliary sulcus). The results showed that this method is very sensitive in detecting patients with high risk of cystoid macular oedema.
The effect of 193 nm excimer laser radiation on the human corneal endothelial cell density
Authors: Isager Peter , Hjortdal Jesper Ø. , Ehlers Niels
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The effect of 193 nm excimer laser radiation on human corneal endothelial cell density was examined. Fifty‐five eyes from 35 patients underwent photorefractive keratectomy for myopia. Photomicrographs of the endothelium were taken a short time before the operation and on an average of 7 months postoperatively with a specular microscope. The average endothelial cell densities were preoperatively 3375 ± 266 cells/mm2 (mean ± SD) and postoperatively 3348 ± 287 cells/mm2, corresponding to a fall of 27 cells/mm2 (N = 55). This fall in endothelial cell density was not statistically significant. A significant correlation between the change in cell density and age of the patient was found, with older patients losing more cells (N = 35, 2p < 0.05). The magnification of the specular microscope was found to change with corneal thickness. The importance of correcting the endothelial cell densities for corneal thickness is discussed.
Viscous carbomer eye drops in patients with dry eyes
Authors: Marner Kirsten , Møller Poul Martin , Dillon Michael , Rask‐Pedersen Eva
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The efficacy and safety of a new carbomer containing ocular gel was compared to a commonly used 1.4% polyvinyl alcohol‐based (PVA) artificial tear preparation. Sixty‐one patients with symptoms and signs of dry eyes were treated with each preparation separately for two weeks in a multicentre, randomized, open cross‐over study. A statistically significant difference in favour of the new viscous carbomer eye drops compared to the PVA preparation was achieved in reducing the symptom of ‘dryness’, the total symptom score and in prolonging the break‐up time. During the carbomer eye drops period the mean daily frequency of application was 3.92 compared to 4.64 for the PVA eye drops period (p = 0.02). Twenty‐three patients (38%) reported adverse events only while using the carbomer gel and 5 (8%) only while using the PVA eye drops (p < 0.001). ‘Blurred vision’ was the most common adverse event reported. The present carbomer containing ocular gel may offer advantages in the treatment of dry eyes.
Topical lomefloxacin twice daily compared with fucidic acid in acute bacterial conjunctivitis
Authors: Malminiemi Kimmo , Kari Osmo , Latvala Marja‐Leena , Voutilainen Raija , Miettinen Ari , Jauch Arthur
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Forty‐five patients with presumed acute bacterial conjunctivitis were treated in an investigator‐masked randomized multicenter study with either lomefloxacin 0.3% or fucidic acid 1% eye drops twice daily. Clinical signs and symptoms were rated by slit‐lamp examination and conjunctival swab cultures were performed to evaluate clinical and microbiological efficacy. A total of 57 ocular isolates were tested for susceptibility to nine antibiotics. A significant decrease in clinical symptomatology was achieved by both treatments with a gradual improvement over the treatment period of 7–9 days. Bacteriological recovery was frequently achieved already at the first control visit (day 3–5), but the recovery rate was statistically significant (p = 0.014) only in the lomefloxacin group. The relatively high in vitro resistance rate (46%) to fucidic acid was not reflected by lower clinical efficacy. Two unrelated adverse events (one in each treatment group) and minimal local intolerance problems were observed in both treatment groups. A significantly higher incidence of burning sensation was observed with fucidic acid than with lomefloxacin (p < 0.01). All four treatment failures in the study occurred in the fucidic acid group. Lomefloxacin 0.3% ophthalmic solution demonstrated a high efficacy and good tolerance in the management of acute bacterial conjunctivitis.
Centration and fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses in eyes with pseudoexfoliation syndrome
Authors: Auffarth Gerd U. , Tsao Kail , Wesendahl Thomas A. , Sugita Arata , Apple David J.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Pseudoexfoliation syndrome is an important risk factor in cataract surgery. We examined decentration of posterior chamber intraocular lenses in a series of 24 autopsy eyes with pseudoexfoliation syndrome that had undergone cataract surgery and intraocular lens implantation. The results were compared to a control group of 25 normal autopsy eyes that matched the pseudoexfoliation collection for age distribution, implant duration and further anatomical parameters. The mean lens decentration in all pseudoexfoliation eyes (0.75 ± 0.38 mm) was significantly higher than in the control group (0.40 ± 0.29 mm) (p = 0.0008). Analysis of subgroups with symmetrical bag/bag fixated intraocular lenses showed a significantly higher decentration in the pseudoexfoliation group (p = 0.04). The main reason for decentration was a decentration of the entire capsular bag in pseudoexfoliative eyes (p = 0.001), which was related to zonular weakness and damage. The results indicate that in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome alternative fixation sites, like sulcus or transscleral fixation, should also be considered.
Progressive outer retinal necrosis in an immunocompetent patient
Authors: Carrillo‐Pacheco Sixto , Vazquez‐Marouschek María del Carmen , Lopez‐Checa Francisca , Sanchez‐Roman Julio
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Progressive outer retinal necrosis syndrome is a variant of necrotizing herpetic retinopathy, a group of retinal infections caused by the herpes viruses. It has been described only in immunosuppressed patients. We present a healthy immunocompetent 16‐year‐old male who suffered a bilateral progressive outer retinal necrosis. Varicella‐zoster virus infection was confirmed on the basis of serologic study. Treatment with intravenous acyclovir and oral prednisone was successful.
The effect of TGF‐beta 1 and TGF‐beta 2 on the proliferation of human Tenon's capsule fibroblasts in tissue culture
Authors: Cunliffe I. A. , Rees R. C. , Rennie I. G.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT This study examines the effect of transforming growth factor beta 1 and 2 (TGF‐beta 1 and TGF‐beta 2) on the proliferation of human Tenon's capsule fibroblasts in tissue culture. Both TGF‐beta 1 and TGF‐beta 2 were shown to stimulate proliferation at 1000 and 100 pg/ml concentrations. We discuss the significance of these findings with respect to wound healing following trabeculectomy, and postulate why some eyes are more at risk of failure than others.
Frequency of congenital hypertrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium in familial adenomatous polyposis
Authors: Olea Jose L. , Mateos Jose M. , Llompart Alfredo , Obrador Antonio
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Congenital hypertrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium is a recognized clinical marker in familial adenomatous polyposis as an expression of the altered gene in this autosomal dominant disease. Ocular lesions could be discovered years before the development of intestinal polyposis. We studied 29 diagnosed patients, 38 relatives (first degree) of familial adenomatous polyposis kindreds and 26 controls (general population). Number, size and bilaterality of pigmented lesions were analysed in order to separate members affected and non affected by intestinal polyposis in familial adenomatous polyposis kindreds. Three of 26 familes (23%) had patients with polyposis and normal fundus. Bilaterality and more than 4 lesions improved specificity or sensibility of the fundus examination. However, the best efficacy of the test was obtained with large lesions (sensibility 0.82 and specificity 0.97).
Pattern dystrophies of the retinal pigment epithelium
Authors: Daniele Salvatore , Carbonara Angelo , Daniele Claudia , Restagno Gabriella , Orcidi Fabrizio
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Pattern dystrophies of the retinal pigment epithelium are infrequent fundus abnormalities arranged in various patterns of dots, lines and branches. The basic lesion appears to be yellow deposits of abnormal lipofuscin accumulated within degenerated retinal pigment epithelium cells. Examinations were carried out on two families who had developed different patterned alterations in the retinal pigment epithelium. The proband of family 1 had diffuse changes associated with equatorial folds. One sister had a macular alteration. A daughter was normal; a son had bilateral atrophy of the temporal retinal pigment epithelium. The proband of family 2 had bilateral, symmetrical retinal pigment epithelium lesions that simulated fundus flavimaculatus. His first daughter had a central lesion in her right eye. The second daughter, a peripapillary crescent of hyperpigmentation in her right eye, and circumpapillary chorioretinal atrophy associated with foveolar abnormalities in the left. This report provides further evidence that variable types of pattern dystrophy can occur within a single family pedigree and support the current opinion that all forms of pattern dystrophies are variants of a single pathogenetic mechanism.
Cataract extraction in Behçet's disease
Authors: Ciftci Omur Ucakhan , Ozdemir Ozden
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Cataract is one of the most common complications of ocular inflammation due to Behçet's disease. A retrospective clinical trial was performed to review the management and discuss the outcome of cataract extraction in patients with Behçet's disease in order to find the best method of treatment. Fifty‐five eyes of 40 patients were included into the study group. The surgical methods used were intracapsular cataract extraction (ICCE), extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE), extracapsular cataract extraction + intraocular lens (ECCE + IOL), and extracapsular cataract extraction + trabeculectomy (ECCE + T). The postoperative visual prognosis was not satisfactory with any of the surgical methods because of the severe posterior segment complications of ocular Behçet's disease, particularly optic atrophy.
High precision Twyman‐Green interferometer for the measurement of ophthalmic surfaces
Authors: Rottenkolber Matthias , Podbielska Halina
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Purpose: We developed a method for measuring ophthalmic surfaces based on a Twyman‐Green interferometer.

Methods: To demonstrate the accuracy, we measured the anterior surface of four used hard contact lenses and evaluated the interference pattern with phase shift technique. The obtained interferograms were evaluated by an image processing system.

Results: The interferometric resolution of the measurement is up to Λ/20 (30 nm) which refers to a dioptric resolution of about ΔD = 10−3 m−1 for typical anterior radii of curvature. The dioptric maps were calculated from the height distribution. As we used a focus tracking distance measurement setup with an accuracy of 10 microns we could determine the absolute value of the dioptric number to be ΔD ≅ 0.04 m−1. To demonstrate the accuracy we tested contact lenses which were specified to have a spherical anterior surface. Obviously, the topography of contact lenses changes when worn. We measured astigmatic deviations up to 0.6 D in the central zone of the lenses. We briefly discuss the possibilities of this method concerning a topographer for measuring the fine corneal surface structure.

Conclusions: The presented Twyman‐Green interferometer with distance measurement and image processing system is a very accurate method for measuring the topographic properties of ophthalmic surfaces. The method may also be useful for studying the distribution of the tear layer on the contact lens, or the corneal topography.
Precise correlation of histopathological and fluorescein angiographic morphology using retinal vascular casting
Authors: Bek Toke , Prause Jan Ulrik
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The histopathology of three eyes obtained post mortem from 2 patients with age‐related macular degeneration was correlated with the pre mortem fluorescein angiographic morphology. A precise point‐by‐point correlation between histopathology and the corresponding angiographic appearance was ensured by using the cast retinal vascular system as a pattern of reference. The study showed that both the photoreceptors, the pigment epithelium, and substances accumulated between the retinal and the choroidal vascular systems, may have a blocking effect on choroidal background fluorescence as seen on fluorescein angiograms. Furthermore, it is confirmed that fluorescein angiographic hyperfluo‐rescence may be due to a lack of blocking of the choroidal fluorescence because of a window defect in the retinal photoreceptor layer and/or the pigment epithelium.
Acanthamoeba keratitis in the south of Sweden
Authors: Skarin Angelika , Florén Ingrid , Kiss Katalin , Miörner Håkan , Stenevi Ulf
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Eight patients with Acanthamoeba keratitis were diagnosed and treated at our clinic between February 1991 and February 1993. Five of these were contact lens wearers, two had suffered recent corneal trauma and one had recently undergone penetrating keratoplasty. The diagnoses were based on both culture and histological examination of biopsy material in three cases, on culture alone in two cases and on histological examination alone in three cases. In all but one primary treatment was Propamidine isethionate and Neomycin/Polymyxin B topically and Ketoconazole orally. Because of poor healing three patients additionally received Paromomycin and Miconazole or Clotrimazol topically; two of these were further treated with Polyhexamethylene biguanide topically. The interval from initial symptoms to accurate diagnoses varied from one to eleven months. In one patient the eye could not be saved; in the remaining patients visual acuity after healing ranged from hand movements to 1.0.
Indications for cataract surgery in a Danish county 1980 and 1990
Authors: Urbak Steen F. , Naeser Kristian
Published: May 2009

Abstract. From 1980 to 1990 the number of cataract extractions in our department increased from 268 to 827, i.e. 209% within the same referral area. A review was made to see if the indications for cataract extraction had changed in that period. The increase in frequency of cataract extractions was statistically significant in all age groups except males aged 60–69. The increase was most noticeable in the older age groups. Preoperative visual acuities were moderately higher in 1990 compared with 1980. The frequency of second eye surgery did not change in the period. Females had in 1980 as in 1990 a higher frequency of cataract extractions than males in all age groups > 60 years.
VDU work: longitudinal survey on refractive defects
Authors: Rechichi Caterina , Scullica Luigi
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A longitudinal survey in two different phases with an interval of 4 years (including more than 23 000 employees) has been carried out to study whether the time spent using VDU (daily hours and years of work) can change the refractive state. With reference to the whole sample including all refractions, there was no significant difference in the refractive state in employees who spent varying daily hours or years working at VDU. Furthermore, there were no significant changes in the refractive states of emmetropic, hypermetropic and myopic subjects, with regard to the time spent working at VDU. The data have shown that a high exposure to VDU work (more than 6 h per day or more than 6 years spent working at a VDU) is not reponsible for inducing or worsening refractive error.
Central areolar choroidal dystrophy and slowly progressive sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Hoyng C. B. , Van Rijn P. M. , Deutman A. F.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Central areolar choroidal dystrophy (CACD) is a rare hereditary disorder leading to a central scotoma in middle‐aged patients. Two cases of CACD in association with perceptive hearing loss are discussed. A 62‐year‐old male and a 51‐year‐old female patient complained of visual deterioration and subsequent hearing loss over several years. In addition to routine ophthalmic and otorhinolaryngological examination both patients underwent fluorescein angiography, (electro)physiological examination and audiometry examination. A demarcated area of atrophy of pigment epithelium and choriocapillaris was found in both patients. A slowly progressive sensorineural hearing loss after adolescence was found in both patients. The hearing deteriorated to such a level at middle age that hearing aids were neccessary. These two cases show that CACD may be associated with perceptive hearing loss.
Wooden foreign particles in the orbit ‐ spontaneous recovery
Authors: Tuppurainen Kaija , Mäntyjärvi Maija , Puranen Matti
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A six‐year‐old boy consulted an ophthalmologist, because another boy had hit his right eye with a tree branch. There were slight corneal erosions, and a superficial small wound in the oedematous upper lid. The erosions healed in 2 days, but the lid showed progressive ptosis and oedema. Computed tomography revealed a hyperdense, tight structure, which was suspected to be a foreign particle. An orbital exploration was made three times, but the foreign body was not found. After prolonged suppuration, two wooden particles appeared spontaneously 4 and 5.5 months after the trauma. After that, the suppuration subsided and the wound healed.
Indocyanine green angiography in angioid streaks
Authors: Pece Alfredo , Avanza Paola , Introini Ugo , Brancato Rosario
Published: May 2009

Purpose: To define the indocyanine green angiographic aspects of angioid streaks, peau d'orange and choroidal new vessels.

Methods: Fifty‐seven consecutive patients (112 eyes) with angioid streaks were evaluated by fluorescein angiography and indocyanine green angiography.

Results: Indocyanine green angiography showed angioid streaks in all eyes. We identified three different indocyanine green patterns of streaks (four groups): fluorescent (63%), hypofluorescent (8%), ‘track‐like’ (19%) and mixed (10%). Angioid streaks were visualized better by indocyanine green angiography and red‐free retinography than fluorescein angiography. Peau d'orange was seen better and found to be more widespread by indocyanine green angiography. Fluorescein angiography visualized choroidal neovascularization better, except for occult forms.

Conclusions: Our findings show that angioid streaks have different indocyanine green angiography patterns. Considering that the hypofluorescent pattern was significantly observed in younger patients, indocyanine green angiography aspects might be correlated with different stages of the disease.
Antineoplastic effects of melatonin on a rare malignancy of mesenchymal origin: melatonin receptor‐mediated inhibition of signal transduction, linoleic acid metabolism and growth in tissue‐isolated human leiomyosarcoma xenografts
Authors: Dauchy Robert T. , Blask David E. , Dauchy Erin M. , Davidson Leslie K. , Tirrell Paul C. , Greene Michael W. , Tirrell Robert P. , Hill Cody R. , Sauer Leonard A.
Published: May 2009

Abstract: Melatonin provides a circadian signal that regulates linoleic acid (LA)‐dependent tumor growth. In rodent and human cancer xenografts of epithelial origin in vivo, melatonin suppresses the growth‐stimulatory effects of linoleic acid (LA) by blocking its uptake and metabolism to the mitogenic agent, 13‐hydroxyoctadecadienoic acid (13‐HODE). This study tested the hypothesis that both acute and long‐term inhibitory effects of melatonin are exerted on LA transport and metabolism, and growth activity in tissue‐isolated human leiomyosarcoma (LMS), a rare, mesenchymally‐derived smooth muscle tissue sarcoma, via melatonin receptor‐mediated inhibition of signal transduction activity. Melatonin added to the drinking water of female nude rats bearing tissue‐isolated LMS xenografts and fed a 5% corn oil (CO) diet caused the rapid regression of these tumors (0.17 ± 0.02 g/day) versus control xenografts that continued to grow at 0.22 ± 0.03 g/day over a 10‐day period. LMS perfused in situ for 150 min with arterial donor blood augmented with physiological nocturnal levels of melatonin showed a dose‐dependent suppression of tumor cAMP production, LA uptake, 13‐HODE release, extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK 1/2), mitogen activated protein kinase (MEK), Akt activation, and [3H]thymidine incorporation into DNA and DNA content. The inhibitory effects of melatonin were reversible and preventable with either melatonin receptor antagonist S20928, pertussis toxin, forskolin, or 8‐Br‐cAMP. These results demonstrate that, as observed in epithelially‐derived cancers, a nocturnal physiological melatonin concentration acutely suppress the proliferative activity of mesenchymal human LMS xenografts while long‐term treatment of established tumors with a pharmacological dose of melatonin induced tumor regression via a melatonin receptor‐mediated signal transduction mechanism involving the inhibition of tumor LA uptake and metabolism.
Protective effect of melatonin against the inflammatory response elicited by crude venom from isolated nematocysts ofPelagia noctiluca(Cnidaria, Scyphozoa)
Authors: Marino Angela , Di Paola Rosanna , Crisafulli Concetta , Mazzon Emanuela , Morabito Rossana , Paterniti Irene , Galuppo Maria , Genovese Tiziana , La Spada Giuseppina , Cuzzocrea Salvatore
Published: May 2009

Abstract: Melatonin (N‐acetyl‐5‐methoxytryptamine) is an efficient free radical scavenger and antioxidant, both in vitro and in vivo. The role of melatonin as an immunomodulator is, in some cases, contradictory. In this study we have investigated the therapeutic efficacy of melatonin in rats subjected toPelagia noctilucacrude venom (of the familia Pelaguiidae; and genus Pelagia) induced acute paw inflammation. In particular, injection of the venom into the paw of rats elicited an acute inflammatory response characterized by accumulation of fluid containing a large number of polymorphonuclear neutrophils in the paw and subsequent lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, the venom promoted an expression of iNOS, nitrotyrosine and the activation of the nuclear enzyme poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase as determined by immunohistochemical analysis of paw tissues. Administration of melatonin 30 min, 1 and 6 hr after the challenge with the venom, caused a significant reduction in all the parameters of inflammation measured. Thus, based on these findings we propose that melatonin may be useful a treatment of local acute inflammation induced byP. noctilucacrude venom.
Trpc2 gene impacts on maternal aggression, accessory olfactory bulb anatomy and brain activity
Authors: Hasen N. S. , Gammie S. C.
Published: May 2009

The Trpc2 gene codes for an ion channel found in the vomeronasal organ (VNO). Studies using the Trpc2−/− (KO) mouse have exploited the gene's role in signal transduction to explore the VNO's role in pheromonally mediated behaviors. To date, no study has evaluated the impact of the Trpc2 gene on activity within the brain. In this study, we examine the gene's effect on brain regions governing maternal aggression. We intruder‐tested lactating dams and then quantified Fos immunoreactivity (Fos‐IR) in the vomeronasal amygdala, hypothalamus, olfactory regions and accessory olfactory bulb (AOB). Our data confirm previous reports that loss of the Trpc2 gene severely diminishes maternal aggression. We also show that deletion of the gene results in differential hypotrophy of the glomerular layer (GlA) of the AOB, with the anterior portion the GlA resembling that of wild‐type mice, and the posterior portion reduced or absent. This anatomy is suggestive of residual functioning in the apical VNO of these animals. Our Fos study describes an impact of the deletion on a network of 21 brain regions involved in emotion, aggression and olfaction, suggesting that signals from the VNO mediate activity throughout the brain. Home‐cage observations of KO dams show specific deficits in nest‐building, suggesting a role for pup pheromones in inducing and maintaining pup‐directed maternal behaviors as well as maternal aggression.
Positive effects of shrubs on herbaceous species richness across several spatial scales: evidence from the semiarid Andean subtropics
Authors: López Ramiro Pablo , Larrea‐Alcázar Daniel M. , Teresa Ortuño
Published: May 2009

Question: What is the effect of shrubs on herbaceous species richness at three spatial scales: quadrat, site, and region?

Location: Prepuna, subtropical semi‐arid Andes.

Methods: At eight sites, we recorded the presence of herbaceous species in spaces beneath shrubs/small trees and in open areas. At the quadrat scale, the average species number per quadrat was calculated and compared between the two microhabitats (shrubs/open). At the local (site) scale, all quadrats of each site were pooled according to microhabitat, and all sites were then combined for the regional analysis.

Results and conclusions: We found greater herbaceous species richness below shrubs at all three spatial scales considered. Several species were found exclusively associated with the shrub undercanopy. This effect seems to depend more on greater inventory diversity at the different scales than on greater differentiation diversity in the herbaceous communities associated with shrubs. Facilitation seems to be responsible for the increase of species richness beneath shrubs, but further experimental study is needed to obtain insight into the underlying mechanisms.
Immigration and the American Obesity Epidemic
Authors: Hao Lingxin , Kim Julie J. H.
Published: May 2009

Immigration is an important population dynamic at work in the U.S., but we know little about its impact on American obesity. Built on nutrition transition and immigration theories, this paper provides explanations for immigrants’ initial body composition advantage, its partial erosion over time, and the gender difference in the erosion. We find evidence that the American obesity epidemic would be much more severe without the mass immigration that began in 1965. In addition to confirming the erosion in immigrants’ body composition advantage, we further find that this erosion is weaker for men than for women. Once immigration's impact is teased out, racial/ethnic disparities in body composition greatly differ from what we observe. This study provides gender-specific estimates for the differences in obesity by nativity and residence duration and the net level of Hispanic-white and Asian-white disparities at the mean body mass index (BMI) as well as the overweight, Stage-1, and Stage-2 obesity cutoffs. Our findings suggest that immigration must be taken into account when addressing public health concerns.
International Mobility of New Migrants to Australia
Authors: Sanderson Lynda
Published: May 2009

Statistical models for residential spells and mobility data are used to examine the probability of repeat and return migration and ongoing mobility among New Zealand and British citizens who migrated to Australia between August 1999 and July 2002. The paper focuses on identifying the relationship between ongoing mobility patterns and personal and environmental circumstances, including institutional barriers to immigration and a discrete change in the social welfare eligibility of New Zealanders in Australia. The results confirm that ongoing migration patterns are far more complex than traditional migration paradigms suggest, with repeat and return migration and ongoing mobility being an important part of actual migration experiences.
Margaret Cavendish on the Relation between God and World
Authors: Detlefsen Karen
Published: May 2009

It has often been noted that Margaret Cavendish discusses God in her writings on natural philosophy far more than one might think she ought to given her explicit claim that a study of God belongs to theology which is to be kept strictly separate from studies in natural philosophy. In this article, I examine one way in which God enters substantially into her natural philosophy, namely the role he plays in her particular version of teleology. I conclude that, while Cavendish has some resources with which to partially alleviate this tension, she is nonetheless left with a significant difficulty.
Diffuse Leptomeningeal Glioneuronal Tumors: A New Entity?
Authors: Gardiman Marina Paola , Fassan Matteo , Orvieto Enrico , D’Avella Domenico , Denaro Luca , Calderone Milena , Severino Mariasavina , Scarsello Giovanni , Viscardi Elisabetta , Perilongo Giorgio
Published: May 2009

The peculiar radiological and pathological findings of four pediatric cases admitted to the University Hospital of Padua between 1990 and 2007 are described. In all cases, the contrast‐enhanced head and spine magnetic resonance images revealed thickened and abnormally enhancing subarachnoid spaces particularly at the level of basal cisterns and interhemispheric fissure. Furthermore, small cystic lesions scattered throughout the brain and mainly in the cerebellum were also visible. All patients were missing a well‐defined intraparenchymal mass, although during the follow‐up a small intramedullary lesion appeared within the cervical spine in two and subsequently in the frontal horn of the left lateral ventricle in one of those. All patients presented an indolent long‐term follow‐up. Histologically, the tumors were composed by a monotonous population of cells arranged in straight lines or in small lobules. The cells were characterized by round to oval nuclei with finely granular dispersed chromatin, inconspicuous nucleoli with oligodendrocyte‐like features. The morphological and immunohistochemical findings suggested in all cases a “glioneuronal commitment” of the tumors. Because of the unique similar clinical and neuroradiological characteristics, we propose this small series of tumors as a new possible distinct pathological and clinical entity.
Auricular chondrosis in a horse
Authors: Bowers JR , Slocombe RF
Published: May 2009

A 4‐year‐old crossbred, Welsh Mountain Pony gelding was presented with multiple, thick, round, raised, 3 to 8 mm diameter nodular lesions on the medial aspects of both ears. The nodules did not involve the epidermis and were observed to develop over several months. Punch biopsies were taken and histopathological examination returned a diagnosis of auricular chondrosis. Neither auricular chondrosis nor auricular chondritis has been reported in horses, although it has been recorded in cats, dogs, laboratory animals and humans.
Antimicrobial use in the Australian pig industry: results of a national survey
Authors: Jordan D , Chin JJ‐C , Fahy VA , Barton MD , Smith MG , Trott DJ
Published: May 2009

Objective  To describe how various antimicrobials are used in commercial pig herds in Australia and for what disease conditions.

Procedure  Managers of large pig herds (> 200 sows) across Australia and their veterinarians participated in an internet‐based survey in 2006. Questions were asked about herd management, the occurrence of bacterial diseases and the type and frequency of antimicrobial use. An antimicrobial usage index for each herd was derived as a summary of the risk of selection for antimicrobial resistance. Relationships between responses were explored with univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results  Responses were received for 197 herds estimated to represent at least 51% of all large pig herds in Australia. Most piggeries relied on drugs of low importance in human medicine (e.g. tetracyclines, penicillins and sulfonamides). For the two drugs of high importance in human medicine that can be legally prescribed to pigs in Australia, ceftiofur use was reported in 25% of herds and virginiamycin in none. Infections attributed to Lawsonia, Mycoplasma and Escherichia coli motivated the most use of antimicrobials. No useful association was found between management factors and the antimicrobial use index.

Conclusion  Most antimicrobial use in the Australian pig industry is based on drugs of low importance to public health. Enhanced control of E. coli infections without reliance on antimicrobials would further reduce the risk of selecting for antimicrobial resistance relevant to public health. The amount of variation in the usage index between herds suggests that antimicrobial use should be constantly reviewed on a herd by herd basis.
International Normalized Ratio (INR), coagulation factor activities and calibrated automated thrombin generation – influence of 24 h storage at ambient temperature
Authors: CHRISTENSEN T. D. , JENSEN C. , LARSEN T. B. , MAEGAARD M. , CHRISTIANSEN K. , SØRENSEN B.
Published: May 2009

International Normalized Ratio (INR) measurements are used to monitor oral anticoagulation therapy with coumarins. Single coagulation factor activities and calibrated automated thrombin (CAT) generation are considered as more advanced methods for evaluating overall haemostatic capacity. The aims were to assess the variability of INR, coagulation factor activities, and CAT, during 24 h of storage of blood samples at ambient temperature. A total of 24 patients on stable coumarin treatment were followed prospectively for 6 weeks. INR was analyzed at 0, 6 and 24 h after blood sampling and 1‐stage clotting activity of coagulation factors II, VII, IX, and X as well as CAT generation was recorded after 0 and 24 h respectively. Statistical analyses included Bland–Altman plot, 95% limits of agreement, and a variability test using a mixed effect model. The level of INR remained statistically unchanged from 0 to 6 and 24 h of storage. Coagulation factor activities and CAT revealed no significant difference induced by 24 h of storage, although the limits of agreement were wide. Patients’ individual INR, coagulation factor activities, and CAT generation were not significantly influenced by 24 h storage of blood samples, but for the CAT generation analyses a trend toward time dependency was detected.
Dynamic of active microorganisms inhabiting a bioleaching industrial heap of low‐grade copper sulfide ore monitored by real‐time PCR and oligonucleotide prokaryotic acidophile microarray
Authors: Remonsellez Francisco , Galleguillos Felipe , Moreno‐Paz Mercedes , Parro Víctor , Acosta Mauricio , Demergasso Cecilia
Published: May 2009

The bioleaching of metal sulfide has developed into a very important industrial process and understanding the microbial dynamic is key to advancing commercial bioleaching operations. Here we report the first quantitative description of the dynamic of active communities in an industrial bioleaching heap. Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans was the most abundant during the first part of the leaching cycle, while the abundance of Leptospirillum ferriphilum and Ferroplasma acidiphilum increased with age of the heap. Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans kept constant throughout the leaching cycle, and Firmicutes group showed a low and a patchy distribution in the heap. The Acidiphilium‐like bacteria reached their highest abundance corresponding to the amount of autotrophs. The active microorganisms in the leaching system were determined using two RNA‐based sensitive techniques. In most cases, the 16S rRNA copy numbers of At. ferrooxidans, L. ferriphilum, At. thiooxidans and F. acidiphilum, was concomitant with the DNA copy numbers, whereas Acidiphilium‐like bacteria and some Firmicutes members did not show a clear correlation between 16S rRNA accumulation and DNA copy numbers. However, the prokaryotic acidophile microarray (PAM) analysis showed active members of Alphaproteobacteria in all samples and of Sulfobacillus genus in older ones. Also, new active groups such as Actinobacteria and Acidobacterium genus were detected by PAM. The results suggest that changes during the leaching cycle in chemical and physical conditions, such as pH and Fe3+/Fe2+ ion rate, are primary factors shaping the microbial dynamic in the heap.
Multiple bilateral spinal nerve root calcifications in Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease
Authors: Bolos PR , Aribandi M , Hess WF
Published: May 2009

We present a patient with Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease with multiple bilateral symmetrical cervical nerve root calcifications. To our knowledge, such a finding has not been described in the literature in association with this disease. We propose that multiple bilateral symmetrical spinal nerve root calcifications may be an additional imaging feature, possibly diagnostic, in this hereditary motor and spinal neuropathy.
Verification of target position in the post‐prostatectomy cancer patient using cone beam CT
Authors: Haworth A , Paneghel A , Herschtal A , Duchesne G , Williams S , Tai KH , Kron T , Roxby P , Soteriou S , Laferlita M , Foroudi F
Published: May 2009

We present the results of a pilot study designed to investigate methods that may be applied to develop a patient position correction protocol for the post‐prostatectomy patient receiving radiotherapy. Imaging was carried out with cone beam CT (CBCT) to investigate its suitability for detecting changes in rectal and bladder volumes and movements of these organs relative to the treatment planning CT. Eligible patients were imaged daily during the first week of treatment and weekly thereafter. Surrogate explanatory variables, including distance from the isocentre to the anterior rectum and bladder length, were tested for their potential to substitute for contouring entire organs and predict for changes in coverage of the planning treatment volume (PTV) by the 95% isodose (PTV95) and the maximum dose delivered to 50% of the rectal volume (RECTD50). The PTV defined on the CBCT images was larger than that defined on the planning CT and resulted in a decrease in the PTV95. Bladder length correlated with bladder volume and changes in bladder volume were associated with a decrease in PTV95. Rectal volumes changed randomly during treatment. There was a trend for the rectum to move anteriorly as treatment progressed. CBCT may be used to define the PTV, rectum and bladder though the reason for an apparent increase in PTV on CBCT requires further investigation. The bladder length and distance to the anterior rectal wall are potential surrogate explanatory variables. Further studies will be designed to test values of these surrogates that predict the need for a change in isocentre position.
Early detection of breast cancer: Overview of the evidence on computer‐aided detection in mammography screening*
Authors: Houssami N , Given‐Wilson R , Ciatto S
Published: May 2009

We review the evidence on computer‐aided detection (CAD) as an adjunct to mammography interpretation, and discuss the complexity of its impact on decision‐making and potential medico‐legal aspects. CAD prompts the reader to review lesions on the mammogram and re‐evaluate the decision on whether to recall CAD‐prompted findings. Studies show that CAD can improve the sensitivity of a single reader, with an incremental cancer detection rate (from adding CAD to a single read) ranging between 1 and 19%. However, CAD will also substantially increase the recall rate (decrease the reader’s specificity) causing additional recall in approximately 6–35% of women. Evidence indicates that CAD does not perform as well as double (human) reading in the context of organized breast screening where double reading is the standard of care. Although CAD can identify and prompt readers to missed cancers, the high number of false‐positive prompts (1.5–4 false prompts per case) can have an adverse effect on clinical decision‐making, and detracts from CAD’s application in screening practice. Refinement in CAD algorithms, in combination with increasing implementation of digital mammography, may improve the potential use of CAD in mammography reading, but will require prospective evaluation.
Offline adaptive radiotherapy for bladder cancer using cone beam computed tomography
Authors: Foroudi F , Wong J , Haworth A , Baille A , McAlpine J , Rolfo A , Kron T , Roxby P , Paneghel A , Williams S , Duchesne G , Tai KH
Published: May 2009

We investigated if an adaptive radiotherapy approach based on cone beam CT (CBCT) acquired during radical treatment was feasible and resulted in improved dosimetric outcomes for bladder cancer patients compared to conventional planning and treatment protocol. A secondary aim was to compare a conventional plan with a theoretical online process where positioning is based on soft tissue position on a daily basis and treatment plan choice is based on bladder size. A conventional treatment plan was derived from a planning CT scan in the radical radiotherapy of five patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer. In this offline adaptive protocol using CBCT, the patients had 10 CBCT: daily CBCT for the first five fractions and then CBCT scan on a weekly basis. The first five daily CBCT in each patient were used to create a single adaptive plan for treatment from fraction eight onwards. A different process using the planning CT and the first five daily CBCT was used to create small, average and large bladder volumes, giving rise to small, average and large adaptive bladder treatment plans, respectively. In a retrospective analysis using the CBCT scans, we compared the clinical target volume (CTV) coverage using three protocols: (i) conventional; (ii) offline adaptive; and (iii) online adaptive with choice of ‘plan of the day’. Daily CBCT prolonged treatment time by an average of 7 min. Two of the five patients demonstrated such variation in CTV that an offline adaptive plan was used for treatment after the first five CBCT. Comparing the offline adaptive plan with the conventional plan, the CTV coverage improved from a minimum of 60.1 to 94.7% in subsequent weekly CBCT. Using the CBCT data, modelling an online adaptive protocol showed that coverage of the CTV by the 95% prescribed dose line by small, medium and large adaptive plans were 34.9, 67.4 and 90.7% of occasions, respectively. More normal tissue was irradiated using a conventional CTV to planning target volume margin (1.5 cm) compared to an online adaptive process (0.5 cm). An offline adaptive strategy improves dose coverage in certain patients to the CTV and results in a higher conformity index compared to conventional planning. Further research in online adaptive radiation therapy for bladder cancer is indicated.
UEBER DIE BINASALE HEMIANOPSIE
Authors: Straub Wolfgang
Published: May 2009

Der kurzen Besprechung der binasalen Hemianopsie, deren Ursache in bisher 56 Fällen durch die Operation oder Obduktion verifiziert werden konnte, folgt der Bericht über 4 hierher gehörende Krankheitsbilder (eine Frau, drei Männer). Bei drei Patienten war es möglich, das Grundleiden anatomisch zu klären.

Hierbei handelte es sich 1. um ein parasagittales, von der Falx cerebri ausgehendes Meningiom, 2. um ein vom Nasen‐Rachenraum durch die Keilbeinhöhle wachsendes Carcinom und 3. um ein auf der Medulla oblongatà bis zum Eingang in den vierten Ventrikel liegendes Angiom. Weder Carcinome noch Angiome sind bisher als Ursache der binasalen Hemianopsie mit Sicherheit bekannt gewesen.

Die Augensymptome haben in alien Fällen auf das Grundleiden aufmerksam gemacht. übereinstimmend klagten die Patienten anamnestisch über passagère Verdunkelungen. Die Gesichtsfeldbefunde und die übrige klinische Symptomatik werden dargestellt; sowohl im Hinblick auf die Ausdehnung als auch hinsichtlich der Begrenzung gegenüber dem noch intakten Gesichtsfeldabschnitt waren, von einer Ausnahme abgesehen, die Defekte asymmetrisch.

In übereinstimmung mit bisherigen Berichten hat sich erneut gezeigt, dass die binasale Hemianopsie kein zuverlässiges Iokalisatorisches Herdsymptom darzustellen braucht.
OBSERVATIONS OF IMAGE MOVEMENTS RELATIVE TO THE RETINA DURING FIXATION
Authors: Christensen Haaken
Published: May 2009

The author has developed a personal technique for observing and interpreting image movements relative to the retina during fixation. Conclusions reached over a number of years are in agreement with observations of eye movements made by other investigators, especially photographically.
L'EXPULSION DE LA CATARACTE
Authors: Orlowski Witold J.
Published: May 2009

LE RÉSUMÉ

L'auteur, ayant analysé les complications que donne la zonulolyse enzymatique, propose la réduction au minimum du nombre d'instruments introduits dans la chambre antérieure; il déconseille la culbute du cristallin; engage à ne plisser, ni casser, ni étirer la cornée et à sortir le cristallin par son équateur supérieur. Sur les 40 cas opérés avec cette technique chez les malades agés de 24 à 92 ans, on a reussi 36 fois l'expulsion intracapsulaire et dans 4 cas avec la capsule rompue. Dans un seul cas, d'ailleurs pathologique (syndrome de Fuchs chez une malade de 24 nas) il eut une complication du corps vitré, ainsi qu'un seul cas de kératite striée chez un malade de 92 ans.