bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Relationship between California Mastitis Test score and ultrasonographic teat measurements in dairy cows
Authors: Seker I , Risvanli A , Yuksel M , Saat N , Ozmen O 
Published: November 2009

Objective The majority of published studies about mastitis are related to the control and prevention of mastitis, with particular emphasis on eliminating predisposition factors. The objective of the current study was to determine the role of teat morphology as an important factor in the aetiology of mastitis.Design Ultrasonographic measurements were taken from 190 teats from 100 dairy cows of different breeds.Procedure Mastitis in cows was diagnosed by the California Mastitis Test (CMT) and microbiological tests. The data were evaluated in the light of the clinical history of the animals.Results Main effects of breed on teat diameter at the position of the Furstenberg rosette (FTD) and teat cistern diameter (CD), that of age on FTD and overall teat diameter (OTD), and that of CMT score on CD and OTD were significant (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). Number of lactations, pregnancy, the lactation period and the udder lobe (rear, front) were not found to have a significant effect on any of the measurements. Results showed that CD was significantly smaller (1.44 ± 0.04 cm) (P < 0.01) in CMT‐positive udder lobes than that in CMT‐negative lobes. No difference was detected in canal length, CD, teat wall thickness, OTD or FTD between the CMT‐positive and ‐negative lobes.Conclusion The occurrence of mastitis could be related to specific ultrasonographic teat measurements (e.g. CD, OTD and FTD) and these may be important in the breeding of cows with a predisposition to mastitis, as well in the evaluation of in‐herd cows in terms of udder/teat deformities.
Reaction Pathways for the Photodegradation of the Organophosphorus Cyanophos in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Menager Matthieu , Pilichowski Jean François , Sarakha Mohamed 
Published: November 2009

AbstractPhotodegradation in aqueous solutions is an important pathway for many agrochemicals such as pesticides. In the present work, the photochemical transformation of cyanophos (CYA) was investigated in aqueous solutions using UV light within the 254–313 nm range as well as solar light. The study was performed in order to have a deep insight into the mechanistic pathways for the photochemical disappearance of CYA. Upon UV irradiation of an aerated solution of CYA, the degradation quantum yield was found equal to 1.8 × 10−2. It is independent of the excitation wavelength but varies with oxygen concentration. It increased by a factor of 2 from oxygen‐saturated to oxygen‐free solution. Photosensitized experiments were performed using acrylamide and hydroquinone as energy acceptor and energy donor substrates, respectively. They show that both singlet and triplet excited states were involved in the photochemical behavior of CYA. The laser flash photolysis experiments clearly showed the involvement of the triplet excited state which was efficiently quenched by molecular oxygen and acrylamide with the rate constants 1.97 × 109 and 2.71 × 109 mol−1 L s−1, respectively. The photoproducts structures were proposed according to the mass spectral data using the LC/MS technique. The analytical study shows that various processes such as hydrolysis, homolytic bond dissociations and Photo‐Fries process occur.
Linkage disequilibrium estimates of contemporary Ne using highly variable genetic markers: a largely untapped resource for applied conservation and evolution
Authors: Waples Robin S. , Do Chi 
Published: November 2009

AbstractGenetic methods are routinely used to estimate contemporary effective population size (Ne) in natural populations, but the vast majority of applications have used only the temporal (two‐sample) method. We use simulated data to evaluate how highly polymorphic molecular markers affect precision and bias in the single‐sample method based on linkage disequilibrium (LD). Results of this study are as follows: (1) Low‐frequency alleles upwardly bias , but a simple rule can reduce bias to <about 10% without sacrificing much precision. (2) With datasets routinely available today (10–20 loci with 10 alleles; 50 individuals), precise estimates can be obtained for relatively small populations (Ne < 200), and small populations are not likely to be mistaken for large ones. However, it is very difficult to obtain reliable estimates for large populations. (3) With ‘microsatellite’ data, the LD method has greater precision than the temporal method, unless the latter is based on samples taken many generations apart. Our results indicate the LD method has widespread applicability to conservation (which typically focuses on small populations) and the study of evolutionary processes in local populations. Considerable opportunity exists to extract more information about Ne in nature by wider use of single‐sample estimators and by combining estimates from different methods.
Sexual function in male patients with obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: Petersen Marian , Kristensen Ellids , Berg Søren , Midgren Bengt 
Published: November 2009

AbstractObjective:  Our objective was to investigate general and functional aspects of sexuality in male patients with a confirmed diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and compare the results with normative data.Materials and Methods:  We investigated 308 male patients (age 30–69) admitted to a sleep laboratory and receiving a diagnosis of OSA, using questions drawn from two self‐administered questionnaires on sexuality [Fugl‐Meyer Life satisfaction checklist (LiSat) and Brief Sexual Function Inventory (BSFI)].Results:  We found that both general (Fugl‐Meyer LiSat) and functional (BSFI) aspects of sexuality were worse in patients with (untreated) OSA when compared with normative data. Both aspects were dependent on age, obesity, social factors and concomitant medication but not on the severity of OSA as reflected by the apnoea–hypopnoea index or subjective sleepiness.Conclusion:  We conclude that although sexual dysfunction is more prevalent in OSA patients than in the general population, it is a complex problem relating more to age, obesity, social factors and comorbidity than to the severity of OSA.Please cite this paper as: Petersen M, Kristensen E, Berg S, Midgren B. Sexual function in male patients with obstructive sleep apnoea. The Clinical Respiratory Journal 2010; 4: 186–191.
Macrophage modulation of inflammatory responses
Authors: DICK AD 
Published: November 2009

Abstract Purpose To give overview of the role of myeloid cells in homeostasis and more particularly their role in generating tissue damage as well as regulating immune responses within the retina. Methods Reviewing the experimental evidence of homeostatic role of macrophage populations in the iris, choroid and retina of normal eye we will focus on the behviour and mechanisms of tissue damage during experimental autoinflammatory responses. In particular examining the interaction of myeloid cells in controlling inflamamtory responses during acute and regulatory phases (resolution) of disease. Results The overall plasticity of macrophage populations and their intrinsic ability to respond to microenviromental signals (cytokines, chemokines and cognate receptor signalling) allows rapid responses to initiate yet limit tissue damage and generates targets to manipulate toward therapeutic gain.
Commercial interest
TGFbeta/Smad signalling, transdifferentiation and matrix contraction
Authors: DAWES LJ , ELDRED JA , DUNCAN G , SLEEMAN M , ANDERSON IK , REDDAN JR , WORMSTONE IM 
Published: November 2009

Abstract Purpose Matrix contraction is a key process in posterior capsule opacification (PCO)formation. Conventional wisdom suggests that TGFβ/Smad signaling, via Smad4, regulates transdifferentiation, which in turn gives rise to matrix contraction thus contributing to PCO. The relationship between TGFβ2 induced transdifferentiation of human lens cells and matrix contraction was tested. Methods The human lens cell line FHL 124 was used. AlphaSMA and Smad4 knockdown was achieved using siRNA; efficiency was tested at message and protein level using QRT‐PCR and western blots respectively. Contraction was assessed using a patch contraction assay, following a 24hr period of serum starvation, cells were maintained in the following conditions for 1–3 days: Control medium (CM) ± 100µM RGDS (Fn/Fn receptor inhibitor); 10ng/ml TGFβ2 ± RGDS; CM ± siRNA–alphaSMA; 10ng/ml TGFβ2 ± siRNA–alphaSMA; CM ± siRNA–Smad4; 10ng/ml TGFβ2 ± siRNA–Smad4. Results TGFβ2 significantly increased expression of malphaSMA (197.7 ± 6.2%) and mfibronectin (197.4 ± 20.4%). SiRNA against alphaSMA and Smad4 significantly inhibited message and protein levels in the presence and absence of TGFβ2. Patch assays cultured for 3 days with TGFβ2 showed significant contraction. Neither inhibition of Fn/Fn receptor interaction using RGDS or knockdown of Smad4 or alphaSMA could prevent TGFβ2 induced matrix contraction. Interestingly, RGDS treatment and alphaSMA knockdown lead to a significantly enhanced rate of TGFβ induced contraction. AlphaSMA and fibronectin expression was suppressed in Smad4 knockdown cells. Conclusion TGFβ induced transdifferentiation is not critical for matrix contraction, thus regulation appears to be via Smad independent pathways.
Commercial interest
A new slitlamp mounted Fourier domain‐OCT (SL‐FD‐OCT) for flexibility in daily clinical practice
Authors: VERBRAAK FD , KOK PHB , VAN VELTHOVEN MEJ , VAN DIJK HW , FABER DJ , DE VRIES HR , VAN LEEUWEN AG 
Published: November 2009

Abstract Purpose To demonstrate the flexibility and quality of a new SL‐FD‐OCT device, mounted on a slitlamp, in daily clinical practice. Methods Images were made in patients, with different types of macular pathology, and 30 patients with AMD, treated with ranibizumab, with a newly developed FD OCT scanning device integrated into a common slitlamp. Scans were made through a handheld lens (Volk 60 D), while simultaneously the (lesion in the) retina could be observed, with the slitlamp. A color fundus photograph of the observed area was made at the same time (Topcon camera DC1, resolution = 3.24 Mp). For comparison, line scans were made in the same patients with the Stratus‐OCT (Zeiss) and 3D‐volume scans with the 3D‐OCT‐1000(Topcon). Scans made at approximately the same location were subjectively compared with respect to quality of the images. Results With the new device scans, and photographs could be made without difficulty in all patients with a reasonably clear retinal image on slitlamp examination. The quality of the scans made with the new device is better than the Stratus‐OCT,and slighly less than the 3D‐OCT‐100. In 30 patients with exudative AMD, treated with ranibuzumab, conclusions regarding the presence of leakage based on SL‐FD‐OCT images were in concordance with the conclusions based on 3D volumes with the 3D‐OCT‐100(Topcon). Conclusion Quality of the scans made with the new device compare favourably with scans of the Stratus‐OCT (Zeiss), and are slightly less than scans made with the 3D‐OCT‐1000 (Topcon). The ease of use and the instanteneous availablity of results of OCT examination, during a regular clinical examination, could be very usefull in daily practice.
Collective of patients with conjunctival melanoma treated at the Jules Gonin Eye Hospital (Lausanne)
Authors: SCHALENBOURG A , CHAMOT L , UFFER S , ZOGRAFOS L 
Published: November 2009

Abstract Purpose Since 1985, a new therapeutic strategy for the conservative treatment of conjunctival melanoma has been developed at the Jules Gonin Eye Hospital (Lausanne). In order to evaluate its long‐term results, we had to identify and classify our patients. Methods We looked retrospectively in our clinical and histopathological databases for all cases of conjunctival melanoma treated in Lausanne since 1985. Results 189 patients were identified. We studied patients’ parameters, clinical presentation and histopathological characteristics of all consecutive conjunctival melanoma cases. Conclusion A database of 189 conjunctival melanoma patients treated with the same therapeutic strategy since 1985 was established. This collective will allow for further studies with regard to the long‐term results of the Lausanne conservative therapeutic strategy of this rare ocular tumour.
Pharmacological vitreous remodelling through non‐enzymatic disruption of the protein matrix
Authors: VECKENEER M , DERYCKE L , CHARIF H , LUIDER T , CORNELISSEN R , VAN AKEN E 
Published: November 2009

Abstract Purpose To study the impact of inhibiting lysyl oxidase enzyme on vitreous extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Lysyl oxidase (LO) plays a critical role in the formation and repair of the ECM by oxidizing lysine residues and initiating covalent cross‐links that stabilize fibrous proteins throughout the body. The LO activity in the eye could be an important aspect of vitreous embryogenesis and aging. Methods Eyes (E8) of chick embryos were injected with beta‐aminopropionitrile (BAPN: selective inhibitor of LO) or with saline. Eyes were fixed in glutaraldehyde 2% for TEM, in paraformaldehyde 3% for immunohistochemical staining or the eyes were lysed and prepared for immunoprecipitation (coll II) followed by mass spectrometry (MS: Fourier transform,MALDI‐TOF/TOF and Orbitrap). Results Microscopy showed a homogenous collagen network in the vitreous core and dense collagen fibers in the periphery of saline treated eyes. BAPN treated eyes showed a small triangular area of collagen meshwork immediately behind the lens and scarce collagen fragments in the periphery. Immunohistochemistry revealed positive staining for opticin in the vitreous periphery and for collagen IX in the vitreous centre and periphery in saline treated eyes. Immunostaining was negative for opticin and collagen IX in the BAPN treated eyes. MS identified a dose dependant signal shift in the treated samples for opticin, decorin and collagen IX. Conclusion Inhibiting lysyl oxidase enzyme in the embryonic chick vitreous has a disrupting impact on its ECM assembly as shown by histology. The effect of BAPN on the vitreous ultrastructure could be related to the loss of decorin, opticin and collagen IX as suggested by MS and immunohistochemistry.
New blood for hemoglobin in the lens: roles in stem cell differentiation and fibre cell organelle loss?
Authors: WRIDE MA , MANSERGH FC , HUNTER SM , GEATRELL JC , JARRIN M , POWELL K , EVANS MJ 
Published: November 2009

Abstract Purpose Evidence is emerging for haemoglobin (Hb) expression outside the vascular system. We previously demonstrated Hb expression in the mouse lens during post‐natal development and cataract progression. Here, we extended this work by carrying out a comprehensive spatio‐temporal analysis of Hb subunit expression during mouse lens development and maturation. Methods We used RT‐PCR, Western blotting and immunofluorescence to analyze Hb expression in mouse eyes (E16.5 to 9 wks). We also used a sensitive heme assay to test for the presence of heme in the lens by colourimetric assay and histological staining of paraffin‐embedded sections. Results Hb subunits were expressed in lens epithelial cells and cortical lens fibre cells. However, the heme assay revealed negligible levels of this prosthetic group in the lens. Hb immunofluorescence was also observed in other regions of the developing eye including the cornea, the retinal ganglion cell layer and the retinal pigment epithelium. Finally, we also observed Hb expression in early embryos by microarray and during differentiation of embryonic stem (ES) cells into embryoid bodies (EBs) in vitro. Conclusion These results suggest a paradigm shift: Hb subunits are expressed in the eye during development and in the adult and, therefore, may have novel roles in ocular development, physiology and pathophysiology. The absence of heme from the lens indicates that at least some of these functions may be independent of oxygen metabolism. The pattern of expression of Hb in lens epithelial cells and cortical lens fibre cells may indicate an involvement for Hb subunits in lens epithelial cell differentiation into lens fibre cells and/or lens fibre cell organelle loss.
Standardized surgical procedure in complicated retinal detachment
Authors: VELIKAY‐PAREL M , RICHTER‐ MÜKSCH S , KISS CH , WEDRICH A 
Published: November 2009

Abstract Purpose Within the last ten years the surgical procedures have been refined in patients with complex retinal detachments resulting in a better anatomical outcome. The reported reattachment rates vary from 54‐96 %. Limited information about the final outcome of the complete cohort of complicated retinal detachment eyes after silicone oil removal is available. Several risk factors for redetachment have been identified: the number of previously unsuccessful surgeries, an incomplete removal of the vitreous base, the absence of an encircling element and the lack of a 360° laser retinopexy. However, the additional use of relaxing retinotomies, an encircling band and lens removal were up to the surgeons discretion. Based on the conclusions of these previous studies the present study investigated the impact of a standardized treatment approach on the anatomical and visual outcome in eyes with PVR grade C2 following unsuccessful retinal detachment surgery. Methods The standardized treatment comprised of vitrectomy, placement of an encercling band, 360° laser retinopexy and silicone oil endotamponade in every eye combined with a small incision cataract surgery, if the patients were phakic. More than 50 eyes of 50 patients with failed prior scleral buckling procedure were included in this study. Results Reoperations had to be performed in 25% of the eyes. The final reattachment rate 6 months after silicone removal was 95.8%. Macular pucker was found in 12%. 70% (43 patients) achieved a visual acuity of 20/200 or better. Conclusion Standardized approach had no impact in the number of reoperation or the incidence of macular pucker. However it improves the final reattachment rate and consequently ameliorates the visual results.
Biosynthetic corneas ‐ an update
Authors: FAGERHOLM P , LAGALI N , GRIFFITH M 
Published: November 2009

Abstract Purpose To present preliminary results on the implantation of biosynthetic corneal grafts into human corneas. Methods Ten collagen biosynthetic corneas were implanted into human corneas by deep lamellar keratoplasty and have been followed for 6 months. Nine of the patients initially had keraatoconus and one had a scar following a bacterial keratitis. The eyes recieved a postoperative treatment of topical steroids and antibiotics for 1‐2 moths. The patients were analyzed clinically, photographed, and tested for sensitivity. They were examined with pachymetry, in‐vivo confocal microscopy, and anterior segment OCT. Results Following implantation the sutures were removed typically after 5‐6 weeks. During the 6 months follow‐up the vision improved and the graft surface became more even. After 6 months nerves started to emerge and cellular invasion of the constructs could be identified to a varying degree. Some thinning of the grafts was identified which appeared to be an adaptation to the host corneal thickness. Of the 10 patients one suffered a minor bacterial keratitis at the edge of the graft and one patient was temporarily treated using an amniotic membrane coverage to achieve epithelialization of the surface. Conclusion The constructs used were well‐integrated into the recipient corneas. They are biocompatible without appearant untoward reactions. The surface is readily covered with epithelium and the nerves are staring to re‐emerge. Thinning may be a concern but this can be adjusted for by altering the graft material.
Testing and counselling in inherited optic neuropathies
Authors: VOTRUBA M 
Published: November 2009

Abstract Purpose Inherited optic neuropathies are a diverse group of conditions presenting with mild to severe visual loss, colour vision deficits, central/ paracentral visual field defects, optic disc pallor and in many cases a positive family history. Modes of inheritance are dominant, recessive, X‐linked and mitochondrial. The absence of a family history does not exclude this diagnosis as there are many apparently new mutations and sporadic cases. Examination of first‐degree relatives may be essential if family history is in doubt. All of these conditions are untreatable but referral for genetic counselling, molecular diagnosis, low vision aids, school assistance and blindness registration may be of benefit to the patient and their family. Methods Autosomal dominant optic atrophy (ADOA) and Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) are the most common of these conditions. ADOA typically presents in mid to late childhood, with an insidious bilateral, symmetrical mild to moderate visual acuity loss, accompanied by dyschromatopsia, central/ centro‐caecal field defect and optic disc pallor. LHON typically presents in early adult life with a sudden, asynchronous, consecutive, catastrophic loss of central vision progressing rapidly to profound visual loss. Visual recovery is most unusual. Results At least three genes for dominantly inherited optic atrophy have been mapped (OPA1, OPA4 and OPA5), of which the gene has been identified in one (OPA1). A gene for recessive optic atrophy (OPA3) has also been identified. X‐linked optic atrophy (OPA2) has been mapped but to date no gene has been identified. Mutations in mitochondrial DNA have been identified in Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy. Conclusion Testing and counselling in the primary inherited optic neuropathies has positive benefits.
Micro Incisional Vitrectomy (MIVS): a new device for trocar insertion
Authors: RIZZO S , GENOVESI‐EBERT F 
Published: November 2009

Abstract Purpose Despite its clinical advantages, MIVS poses significant challenges in performing airtight incisions especially dealing with 23‐gauge system. Aim of this paper was to assess the feasibility of performing 23‐g MIVS using an injector system for trocar insertion. Methods 60 consecutive eyes of 56 patients underwent 23‐g pp vitrectomy and gas endotamponade for the treatment of Regmatogenous Retinal detachment and Diabetic Prolipherative Retinopathy by the same surgeon (SD). 30 eyes were operated on with standard one‐step 23‐g and 30 using a prototype of injector holding the same 23‐g trocar cannula system. The trocar squeezed into the plunger of the injector. The device had a metallic terminal oriented with a fix angle, allowing the insertion in the settled direction, able to fix the globe and displace the conjunctiva at the same time.Main outcome measure were sclerotomies airtightness, surgical time and complications. Results In the 30 eyes operated with the 23‐g ones step system 9 sclerotomies were sutured, in 5 refilling was required. Mean surgical time were 54 minutes. In the 30 eyes operated with the new device, the inserter was easy to apply in all cases and was useful especially in the nasal quadrant. Also dealing with sunken eyes the inclination of the system 5‐10° tangential to the sclera was easily achieved. No suture was placed, refilling was needed in 3 cases. Mean surgical time was 45 minutes. No complications due to these device were highlighted. Conclusion The new injector was safe and effective. The device facilitates the insertion manoeuvre allowing easier and quicker trocar positioning helping the airtight wound construction. MIVS success lie in the surgeon’s skill but also in the development of the technology and instrumentations.