bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Preliminary studies on the amoebicidal efficacy of contact lens disinfection systems
Authors: Stapleton Fiona , Harmis Najat , Deshpande Rajesh , Tran David 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: This preliminary study evaluated the efficacy of contact lens disinfection systems against Acanthamoeba castellanii, tested with and without co‐incubation with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Methods: First, disinfection systems containing 3% hydrogen peroxide, 0.00005% polyaminopropyl biguanide or 0.001% polyquatemium were challenged with A. castellanii for 72h. Surviving cells were enumerated. Second, A. castellanii were co‐incubated with P. aeruginosa for 48 h, then exposed to the disinfectants for 6 h. Results: There was zero survival of A. castellanii in hydrogen peroxide and variable survival in multipurpose systems. Following co‐incubation, A. castellanii survival increased significantly (P= 0.015). Conclusions: Multipurpose systems have variable antiamoeba activity and storage cases contaminated by bacteria may enhance amoeba survival.
Robotic ocular ultramicrosurgery
Authors: Yu D‐Y , Cringle SJ , Constable IJ 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Background: There is an increasing need for improved microsurgical techniques in the eye. Delivery of small quantities of chemicals or cells into specific retinal locations, for example, cannot be achieved with hand‐held instruments. The present paper describes the design principles used in the development of a robotic ocular ultramicrosurgical system and the results from preliminary animal trials. Methods: We have developed a robotic ocular ultramicrosurgical system and a range of instruments for specific intraocular applications. Results: We have successfully used the system for intravascular (< 70 >) drug delivery, implantation of microdrainage devices and the intraretinal manipulation of microelectrodes with minimal damage. Conclusion: A clinically usable system using the same principles appears feasible.
Anatomical correlates of experimentally induced myopia
Authors: Beresford Judith A , Crewther Sheila G , Crewther David P 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: The present study compares morphological changes associated with optical defocus‐induced myopia (ODM) with those from form deprivation myopia (FDM), as it is yet to be determined whether the latter is a consequence of visual deprivation or active myopic eye growth. Methods: Hatchling chicks were reared for 2 weeks wearing a monocular translucent occluder or ‐10.00 D lens, with the other eye used as a control. After enucleation, eyes were processed for scanning electron microscopy. Results: Anatomical profiles of control eyes revealed significant variations in tissue thickness as a function of nasotemporal location. Both FDM and ODM eyes demonstrated similar morphological profiles of retinal thinning, cartilaginous scleral thickening, enlarged photoreceptor inner segments and decreased photoreceptor cell density towards the ora serrata. A graded differential orientation of photoreceptors existed in all eyes. Conclusion: The comparable morphological changes in FDM and ODM suggest that the response to altered visual experience is similar in both paradigms.
The snapped inferior rectus
Authors: Kowal Lionel , Wutthiphan Sorot , McKelvie Penelope 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the management and possible aetiology of the snapped inferior rectus muscle in strabismus surgery. Methods: Three patients are described whose inferior rectus muscle broke across its width some 8‐10mm behind the insertion while being held on a squint hook without excessive force during strabismus surgery. The proximal part of the muscle was not found. The distal part of the snapped muscle was excised for pathological examination. Transposition of the inferior halves of the adjacent horizontal muscles to the insertion of the inferior rectus (a modified inverse‐Knapp procedure) was performed in all cases. Results: After the transposition surgery, one patient was orthotropic in the primary position, one patient required a prism correction to produce a range of single vision and the third patient was orthotropic after a further operation. There was good depression in one case and the other two had a limitation of depression. In all cases, horizontal movements remained intact and there were no signs of anterior segment ischaemia. Conclusions: The unique relations of the inferior rectus to the surrounding tissues may be a factor in causing the breaking of this muscle. Two of the patients were elderly and this may be a factor also. Transposition surgery is the appropriate management when the proximal part of the snapped muscle cannot be located and has satisfactory but imperfect results.
Primary choroidal malignant melanoma occurring in a New Zealand Maori
Authors: Elder Mark J , Dempster Alec , Sabiston David , Clemett Richard 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose/Method: A case of a 28‐year‐old Maori with an aggressive primary choroidal malignant melanoma is presented. Results/Conclusion: Melanoma and particularly intraocular melanoma is very rare in pigmented races. This is the first reported case in the Maori.
Recurrent scleritis in lepromatous leprosy
Authors: Poon Alexander , MacLean Hector , McKelvie Penelope 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Background: Recurrent immune‐mediated scleritis after adequate treatment of leprosy is not well documented in the literature. We describe an Australian resident with unilateral intra‐ocular lepromatous leprosy who had persistent non‐infectious scleritis. Methods: A man of Anglo‐Indian ancestry initially presented with lepromatous leprosy and unilateral ocular involvement. The affected eye had an interstitial keratitis and a granulomatous anterior uveitis that responded to antileprotics and anti‐inflammatory agents. Despite systemic cure with triple antileprotic therapy, he developed recurrent scleritis that required multiple scleral patch grafts for scleral thinning and, subsequently, an enucleation. Histology failed to demonstrate persistent infection, rather a chronic non‐granulomatous scleritis, which was probably immune mediated. Results/Conclusions: This case demonstrates an ocular complication of leprosy that is infrequently reported. Patients with ocular involvement by leprosy are at risk of developing recurrent scleritis despite systemic cure with antileprotics.
Visual hallucinations and macular degeneration: An example of the Charles Bonnet syndrome
Authors: Nadarajah J 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: Patients with any form of visual disturbance, no matter how unusual, often present first to their ophthalmologist. An example of the Charles Bonnet syndrome as a result of bilateral macular degeneration is presented. The significance of early diagnosis is highlighted as reassurance and explanation of the condition seems to be the cornerstone of management. Methods/Results: A chronological case history, results of investigations and management are presented. Conclusions: The diagnosis of Charles Bonnet syndrome should be considered in elderly, cognitively intact patients who present with vivid, elaborate and complex visual hallucinations following ocular pathology. Although there is no universal definition of this entity and there is no specific pharmacotherapy, patients may be referred for counselling.
Facial muscle spasms: An Australian study
Authors: Kowal Lionel , Davies Roger , Kiely Patricia M. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: A group of patients suffering from blepharospasm, hemifacial spasm and Meige's syndrome were surveyed to determine the delay from the onset of their condition until a correct diagnosis was reached, the attitudes of practitioners towards them and their condition, the effect of their condition on their lifestyle and the effects of different types of treatment on their conditions. Methods: Questionnaires were offered to all patients with blepharospasm, hemifacial spasm and Meige's syndrome presenting to three ophthalmologists licensed to treat patients with botulinum toxin injections over a 12 month period. Results: Patients consulted an average of 4.4 practitioners before a correct diagnosis was made and many waited a number of years before obtaining satisfactory treatment. Approximately two‐thirds of all practitioners consulted were unaware of their condition. Ten per cent of patients reported a family history of similar conditions. Most patients received relief from their symptoms with treatment using injections of botulinum toxin. More than 55% of patients considered themselves to have psychological problems (usually relating to stress and trauma) that they associated with the onset of their condition. Conclusions: Facial muscie dystonias are rare and patient experiences suggest that they are poorly appreciated in the medical community. From the time they first see a practitioner with symptoms of facial dystonia, patients typically wait 2 years and see four practitioners before a correct diagnosis is made. Stress may be a factor in the symptomatic onset of this condition. Many patients describe pain as part of the presenting symptomatology. Botulinum toxin seems to be effective in the management of facial spasm.
Bilateral arteritic central retinal artery occlusion in a Chinese patient
Authors: Kwok Alvin KH , Lam Dennis SC , Liew CT 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose:To report the first case of bilateral central retinal artery occlusion caused by giant cell arteritis in a Chinese patient Methods: We studied a Chinese patient who had a history of weight loss, calf claudication and sequential right and left central retinal artery occlusion. Results:The erythrocyte sedimentation rate was greater than 150 mm/h. Temporal artery biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis. Systemic steroid prevented further visual loss in the second eye. Conclusions: We believe that this is the first report in literature on the ophthalmological presentation of giant cell arteritis in a Chinese patient Giant cell arteritis as a cause of central retinal artery occlusion should always be on the list of differential diagnosis, as early diagnosis and treatment may help to salvage the first eye and prevent blindness from developing in the second eye.
The rs743572 common variant in the promoter of CYP17A1 is not associated with prostate cancer risk or circulating hormonal levels
Authors: Severi Gianluca , Hayes Vanessa M. , Tesoriero Andrea A. , Southey Melissa C. , Hoang Hoa N. , Padilla Emma J.D. , Morris Howard A. , English Dallas R. , Sutherland Robert L. , Boyle Peter , Hopper John L. , Giles Graham G. 
Published: November 2007

OBJECTIVETo use a large population‐based case‐control study to test the association between the common genetic variant rs743572 (−34 T to C), prostate cancer risk and circulating levels of several hormones.SUBJECTS AND METHODSA previous meta‐analysis concluded that reported associations between rs743572 in the promoter of CYP17A1 and prostate cancer risk might reflect publication bias, but a few recent studies reported associations with prostate cancer risk and data suggesting that rs743572 is functional. We genotyped 824 prostate cancer cases and 737 population‐based controls, and applied unconditional logistic regression to estimate the association between rs743572 and prostate cancer risk. We also used linear regression of transformed testosterone, androstanediol glucuronide, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate, androstenedione, sex hormone‐binding globulin and oestradiol (circulating levels) measured for controls, to estimate the association between these levels and rs743572. The linear models were adjusted for age and laboratory batch.RESULTSMen with different genotypes had similar circulating levels of all the hormones measured (all P < 0.05). In the case‐control comparison using unconditional unadjusted logistic regression, the odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for prostate cancer were 1.07 (0.87–1.32) and 0.94 (0.71–1.25) for the dominant and recessive models, respectively, and for the co‐dominant model, 1.10  (0.88–1.36) and 0.99 (0.73–1.35) for carriers of one or two copies of the C allele, respectively. There was no evidence of heterogeneity in the odds ratios by tumour stage (all P > 0.3) and grade (all P > 0.3).CONCLUSIONThe results of the present study are consistent with the conclusions of the previous meta‐analysis, and suggest that rs743572 has no role in the risk of prostate cancer for men of Caucasian origin.
Modified ureterosigmoidostomy (Mainz Pouch II): a nonrefluxing stented vs unstented laparoscopic porcine model
Authors: Humphreys Mitchell R. , Miller Nicole L. , Lingeman James E. 
Published: November 2007

OBJECTIVETo describe a rapid and reproducible pure laparoscopic cystectomy and nonrefluxing modified continent urinary diversion (Mainz Pouch II), and to determine whether ureteric stenting decreases ureteric obstruction after surgery.MATERIALS AND METHODSAfter institutional review and approval, six female pigs (51–55 kg) had a laparoscopic cystectomy and urinary diversion using a modified Mainz Pouch II. Imbricating bowel over the extra‐intestinal ureteric segment created the nonrefluxing mechanism. All pigs had the same bowel preparation before a standard four‐port transperitoneal laparoscopic procedure, but three pigs received bilateral J ureteric stents and three did not. Body weights, radiographic imaging, serum electrolytes and renal function were monitored during the 6‐week survival period.RESULTSOne stented pig developed bilateral pyelonephritis, renal obstruction and was killed. Including this pig, four of 12 renal units were obstructed, occurring more often in the stented pigs. There were no significant differences between the serum electrolytes before and after surgery or between the stented or unstented pigs. The surgery was quicker as experience increased. No pig developed hyperchloraemic metabolic acidosis. The nonrefluxing modification appeared to be effective, as reflux was only present in one renal unit.CONCLUSIONSLaparoscopic ureterosigmoidostomy, specifically the modified Mainz Pouch II, represents a viable and reasonable continent urinary diversion. The results suggest that there was no benefit in stenting in this pig model.
Does photodynamic transurethral resection of bladder tumour improve the outcome of initial T1 high‐grade bladder cancer? A long‐term follow‐up of a randomized study
Authors: Denzinger Stefan , Wieland Wolf F. , Otto Wolfgang , Filbeck Thomas , Knuechel Ruth , Burger Maximilian 
Published: November 2007

OBJECTIVETo evaluate, in a long‐term follow‐up of T1 high‐grade bladder cancer treated in a prospective, randomized trial, whether fluorescence diagnosis (FD) increases recurrence‐free survival (RFS) or reduces progression to muscle‐invasive stages.PATIENTS AND METHODSIn all, 191 patients with suspected superficial bladder cancer were treated with transurethral resection under white light (WL) or with FD; 46 presented with initial T1 high‐grade BC (WL, 25; FD, 21). There were no differences in multifocality of tumours, concomitant carcinoma in situ or tumour size in either group.RESULTSPatients were followed for a median of 7.3 (WL) and 7.5 (FD) years to evaluate RFS. In the WL group there were 11, and in the FD group three, recurrent tumours of the same stage and grade. The RFS at 4 and 8 years was 69% and 52% in the WL, and 91% and 80% in FD group, respectively. With FD, the RFS was significantly longer according to Kaplan‐Meier analysis (P = 0.025). In the WL group, three (12%), and in the FD group four (19%) patients progressed to muscle‐invasive stages (≥ T2).CONCLUSIONIn initial T1 high‐grade bladder cancer, FD is significantly better than conventional WL transurethral resection for RFS. However, the progression rate to muscle‐invasive disease was not reduced by FD. Thus the clinical course (progression) of T1 high‐grade bladder cancer remains unaffected by FD.
A single‐nucleotide polymorphism in the matrix metalloproteinase‐1 promoter enhances bladder cancer susceptibility
Authors: Tasci Ali I. , Tugcu Volkan , Ozbek Emin , Ozbay Bedi , Simsek Abdulmuttalip , Koksal Vedat 
Published: November 2007

OBJECTIVETo explore the association between the promoter polymorphism (that influences the transcriptional level) of matrix metalloproteinase‐1 (MMP‐1, associated with tumour cell invasion and metastasis) and bladder cancer in a Turkish population.PATIENTS, SUBJECTS AND METHODSThe MMP‐1 polymorphism was assessed in 102 transitional cell carcinomas of the bladder (50 Ta, 52 T2–4) and in 94 age‐, smoking‐ and gender‐matched healthy volunteers. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was used to determine the MMP‐1 genotypes. Genomic DNA used for the assay was extracted from peripheral blood lymphocytes.RESULTSThe frequency of the MMP‐1 2G/2G genotype, which results in the highest MMP‐1 transcriptional level, was compared to that of the 1G/1G plus 1G/2G genotypes. Of the 102 cases with bladder cancer, 49 (48%) showed the 2G/2G genotype, whereas it was found in 22 of the 94 controls (23%); this difference was statistically significant (P < 0.01; odds ratio 2.79, 95% confidence interval, CI, 1.53–5.60). However, there was no significant association between the 2G/2G genotype and tumour grade and pathological stage. We assessed the interaction between smoking status (former and current smokers, by their median pack years) and 2G/2G genotype; there was a significantly increased risk in heavy smokers (P < 0.001; odds ratio 3.21; 95% CI 1.33–5.60).CONCLUSIONThese results suggest that the MMP‐1 promoter polymorphism might be linked to susceptibility for bladder cancer.
Is Good Work Good for Democracy? Work, Change at Work and Political Participation in Canada and England
Authors: Godard John 
Published: November 2007

AbstractThis article draws on data from 750 Canadian and 450 English workers to systematically explore the implications of work for political participation, addressing whether ‘good’ work, and recent trends identified in work and employment, appear to be good for political participation. It finds that various aspects of work and of the work experience, many of which have been associated with recent trends, can have significant implications. However, these implications tend to differ for ‘passive’ and ‘active’ forms of participation and to be weak for the former. Moreover, characteristics that might be associated with ‘good’ work have negative as well as positive spillovers, suggesting contradictory effects and reducing the net positive effects of good jobs. Finally, there is some (albeit limited) evidence of cross‐national differences, especially with regard to the implications of union representation.
Regulating Labour Standards via Supply Chains: Combining Public/Private Interventions to Improve Workplace Compliance
Authors: Weil David , Mallo Carlos 
Published: November 2007

AbstractConcern over global labour standards has led to a profusion of non‐governmental forms of regulation. Systematic evaluation of these systems has been very limited to date. This article empirically explores an innovative system to regulate labour standards in the US garment industry combining public enforcement power and private monitoring, thereby drawing on different elements of global labour standards systems. We examine the impact of this system over time and in two distinct markets on employer compliance with minimum wage laws and find that these initiatives are associated with substantial reductions in minimum wage violations. The system therefore offers a useful model for international labour standards regulatory systems.
Complement component C1q inhibits β‐amyloid‐ and serum amyloid P‐induced neurotoxicity via caspase‐ and calpain‐independent mechanisms
Authors: Pisalyaput Karntipa , Tenner Andrea J. 
Published: November 2007

AbstractAlzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by neuronal loss, β‐amyloid (Aβ) plaques, and neurofibrillary tangles. Complement protein C1q has been found associated with fibrillar Aβ deposits, however the exact contributions of C1q to Alzheimer’s disease is still unknown. There is evidence that C1q, as an initiator of the inflammatory complement cascade, may accelerate disease progression. However, neuronal C1q synthesis is induced after injury/infection suggesting that it may be a beneficial response to injury. In this study, we report that C1q enhances the viability of neurons in culture and protects neurons against Aβ‐ and serum amyloid P (SAP)‐induced neurotoxicity. Investigation of potential signaling pathways indicates that caspase and calpain are activated by Aβ, but C1q had no effect on either of these pathways. Interestingly, SAP did not induce caspase and calpain activation, suggesting that C1q neuroprotection is in distinct from caspase and calpain pathways. In contrast to Aβ‐ and SAP‐induced neurotoxicity, neurotoxicity induced by etoposide or FCCP was unaffected by the addition of C1q, indicating pathway selectivity for C1q neuroprotection. These data support a neuroprotective role for C1q which should be further investigated to uncover mechanisms which may be therapeutically targeted to slow neurodegeneration via direct inhibition of neuronal loss.
Agricultural Policy Reform and Off‐farm Labour Decisions
Authors: Serra Teresa , Goodwin Barry K. , Featherstone Allen M. 
Published: November 2007

AbstractOff‐farm labour decisions of a sample of Kansas farmers are evaluated. The central question of our analysis pertains to whether 1996 US farm policy reforms may have altered the decisions to work off the farm. The effects of policy decoupling on off‐farm labour are complex: different aspects of policy changes can have opposing effects on off‐farm work decisions. Essentially, this makes this issue an empirical question. Results show that the introduction of fixed, decoupled payments in 1996 might have reduced the likelihood of off‐farm labour participation. However, the new policy environment may have increased farm households’ revealed aversion to risk, motivating a higher participation in non‐farm labour markets. The effects of 1996 policy reforms on farm income variability could have been attenuated by changes in US crop insurance programmes and by an increase in emergency assistance payments towards the end of the 1990s. The reduction in price supports may have increased the motivation for working off the farm. The net effect of the overall reforms on off‐farm work participation is not likely to have been large.
Causes of Changes in Agricultural Employment in Slovenia: Evidence from Micro‐data
Authors: Bojnec Štefan , Dries Liesbeth 
Published: November 2007

AbstractThis paper analyses labour adjustment in and out of agriculture during transition to a market economy. A multinomial logit model is used to determine the factors that affect these processes. The results show that elderly, less educated and full‐time employees on a farm are more likely to continue with farming. Inflow of labour into agriculture is largely associated with the unemployment and retirement of farm household members. Age, education and investment in human capital are the key factors that improve the quality, mobility and flexibility of labour, which is crucial for efficient labour adjustment at the micro‐level and sector level. Better‐educated individuals are more likely to enter into employment in non‐agricultural, particularly service, activities.