bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Intraocular lens materials and styles: A review
Authors: Chehade Mark , Elder Mark J 
Published: November 2007

AbstractBiomaterial science has lead to the development of a variety of foldable intraocular lens (IOL) biomaterials. This literature review examines these lenses from both a basic science and a clinical perspective. By most parameters, hydrogel, soft acrylic and silicone IOL are better than polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) lenses.Plate haptic silicone IOL have the lowest incidence of cystoid macula oedema and posterior capsule opacification, but these lenses require an intact anterior capsularhexis and posterior capsule. Yttrium aluminium garnet (YAG) laser capsulotomy must be delayed at least 3 months to avoid posterior lens dislocation. Silicone has the lowest threshold for YAG laser damage of all IOL materials and also adheres irreversibly to silicone oil with subsequent optical impairment. Three piece silicone IOL with polypropylene haptics have a higher incidence of decentration, pigment adherence and capsule opacification compared with PMMA haptics. Hydrogel lenses are very biocompatible and resistant to YAG laser damage, but pigment adheres to the surface more readily than PMMA. Soft acrylic IOL unfold slowly, resulting in controlled insertion, but it is possible to crack the lens and some lenses develop glistenings due to water accumulation.There are significant socioeconomic implications to the large differences in posterior capsule opacification rates between the various biomaterials and the lens styles.
Keratoprosthesis results in animals: An update
Authors: Hicks CR , Lou X , Platten S , Clayton AB , Vijayasekaran S , Fitton HJ , Chirila TV , Crawford GJ , Constable IJ 
Published: November 2007

ABSTRACTBackground:The report presented is an update on continuing development work on modified PHEMA core‐and‐shirt KPros in animals.Methods:Two variations (improved wet‐eye, and dry‐eye) of a prototype core‐and‐skirt Chirila KPro are described. The clinical success rate on implantation of these versions of the Chirila KPro was assessed.Results:It was found that a significant improvement in retention rate was shown in the improved model but that the dry‐eye model failed early in two of the three implanted.Conclusions:The significance of the improved strength and the reasons for disappointing results with the early dry‐eye KPros are discussed. Ongoing work is briefly outlined.
Effect of human vitreous and hyalocyte‐derived factors on vascular endothelial cell growth
Authors: Zhu M , Penfold PL , Madigan MC , Billson FA 
Published: November 2007

ABSTRACTPurpose:In the present study we have examined the effects of human vitreous and hyalocyte‐conditioned medium on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC).Methods:Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were cultured and treated in quadruplicate with human vitreous and hyalocyte‐conditioned medium at different concentrations. Cell numbers were counted on days 1, 3, 5 and 7. Morphological changes and the viability of cells after treatment were also monitored.Results:The results indicate that both human vitreous and hyalocyte‐conditioned medium inhibit proliferation and reduce the viability of HUVEC in vitro. These inhibitory effects were dose‐ and time‐dependent.Conclusions:The observations suggest that human hyalo‐cytes and vitreous contain anti‐angiogenic factors that influence vascular endothelial cell growth. These results, combined with those of previous studies, may yield important information about the functional role of vitreous and hyalocytes in intraocular vascular regression.
Measurement of vasoactivity in the guinea‐pig choroid
Authors: Cringle SJ , Yu D‐Y , Alder VA , Su E‐N , Yu PK 
Published: November 2007

ABSTRACTPurpose:A perfusion system for studying the vasoactive properties of the guinea‐pig choroid is described. Methods:The principle of operation is that the vascular resistance of the entire vascular network of an isolated, perfused eye can be monitored by recording the pressure required to deliver a constant flow of perfusate through the network. Delivery of the pharmacological agent of interest into the perfusate stream and the subsequent determination of the magnitude of any induced pressure changes allows the vasoactive potency of various agonists to be assessed.Results:The baseline vascular resistance was 1.35 ± 0.16 mmHg. min/μL (mean ± SEM; n=10) and the mean response to intraluminal delivery of 124 mmol/L K+ Krebs was an increase in resistance of 297±67%. Vasoactive responses were sustainable for more than 8 h.Conclusions:This system will now be used to study the vasoactive properties of the guinea‐pig choroid in greater detail.
Cat‐301 immunoreactivity in the lateral geniculate nucleus and visual cortex of the strabismic amblyopic cat
Authors: Yin ZQ , Crewther SG , Pirie B , Crewther DP 
Published: November 2007

ABSTRACTPurpose:It was investigated whether alterations in neuronal structure and function occasioned by strabismic amblyopia also may be reflected in alterations in the expression on Y type neurons of a Cat‐301 antibody sensitive antigen in the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) and cortex of our cat model of strabismic amblyopia.Methods/Results:The percentage of positively labelled cells was reduced in LGN laminae that received input from the deviated eye in strabismic amblyopic cats compared with normal cats. In the strabismic cortex, the density of immunopositive neurons was significantly reduced compared with normal, the effect being most pronounced in layer IVConclusions:Despite previous physiological recordings indicating a decrease in X‐cell associated acuity in strabismic amblyopia, the present findings imply that the changes in the early visual experience occasioned by strabismus also produce specific molecular changes in theY neuronal class.
Family history and age‐related maculopathy: The Blue Mountains Eye Study
Authors: Smith Wayne , Mitchell Paul 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: To assess the associations between stages of age‐related maculopathy (ARM) and reported family history of this eye disease. Methods: A cross‐sectional study of 3654 subjects from a defined geographical area west of Sydney (NSW, Australia) identified subjects with late age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) and early ARM from masked detailed grading of retinal photographs. Interviewer‐administered questionnaires provided data on family history of ARM. Logistic regression was used to assess associations, adjusting for other known risk factors. Results: A family history of ARM was significantly associated with both late AMD (odds ratio (OR) 3.92; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.34‐11.46) and early ARM (OR 2.17; 95% CI 1.04‐4.55). The association was highest for neovascular AMD. Conclusions: These findings provide persuasive evidence that a stated family history of ARM is an important risk factor for ARM.
Outcomes of cytomegalovirus retinitis following the use of ganciclovir implants
Authors: McCluskey Peter J , Shah Rajiv , Versace Patrick 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: To determine the results and complications from the use of ganciclovir implants to treat patients with HIV infection and cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis. Methods: The present study was a retrospective review of 87 consecutive ganciclovir implant surgeries performed in 60 patients over a 3 year period. Results: Based on the results of the present study, ganciclovir implants are an efficacious therapy for CMV retinitis but are associated with significant postoperative complications, including retinal detachment (12.0%), vitreous haemorrhage (7.2%) and cataract formation (6.0%). In this series, all implanted eyes responded to treatment and the mean time to progression was 252 days. Only a small number of patients developed second eye involvement (n= 9) or clinically significant CMV infection of other organ systems (n= 5). Conclusions: This small retrospective study provides additional data confirming the effectiveness of ganciclovir implants and the complications from their use.
Identification of the lower end of the nasolacrimal duct with a fibre‐optic light ‘pipe’
Authors: Elder James E 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: To report a method of identifying the lower end of the nasolacrimal duct when more usual methods have failed. Methods: A vitreoretinal fibre‐optic light pipe was used to identify the lower end of the nasolacrimal duct in a child with unusual congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Results: This intraluminal light source enabled easy cut down onto the ‘blind’ end of the lacrimal drainage apparatus and subsequent intubation with silicone tubing to overcome the obstruction. Conclusion: This technique may prove useful in the rare cases in which it is not possible to identify the lower end of the nasolacrimal duct with a probe and nasal endoscope alone.
Treatment of pigment epithelial detachments due to age‐related macular degeneration with intra‐ocular C3F8 injection*
Authors: Gross‐Jendroska Mirjam , Flaxel Christina J , Schwartz Steve D , Holz Frank G , Fitzke Fred W , Gabel Veit‐Peter , Bird Alan C 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: To flatten pigment epithelial detachments (PED) cue to age‐related macular degeneration in an attempt to visualize the underlying choroidal neovascularization by fluorescein angiography (FA) and reveal a treatment target. Methods: Nine patients with PED received intravitreal gas injections via the pars plana and postured face down. Fluorescein angiograms were obtained before and after gas injection. In two patients, retinal scotopic sensitivity was also measured. Results: Eight patients demonstrated change in the shape and size of the PED following gas injection. Four patients showed a better delineation of underlying structures on FA. Three patients had focal laser treatment to the newly visible choroidal neovascular complex, but this was successful in only one patient with flattening of the PED. Conclusion: Pigment epithelial detachments can be modified by intravitreal gas injection in some patients, but this treatment did not have a major impact on overall outcome or management.
Ring tunnel keratoplasty in high and extreme myopia correction
Authors: Robman L , Shusterov Y 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Background: A surgical method for correction of high and extreme myopia was developed. Methods: The corneal optical zone is flattened by bringing strip‐shaped corneal grafts into the interlamellar tunnel surrounding the corneal optical centre. Instruments and an operative technique were developed. Results: In 72 operations on rabbits, dependency of the refractive effect on ring diameter and transplant thickness was revealed. In the clinic, the average refractive effect of 100 consecutive standard operations was 10.1 ± 2.0 D. The maximal refractive effect was 14.5 D. Regression of the refractive effect was 12%. Conclusion: Ring tunnel keratoplasty was shown to be a reliable method of optical correction.
Persistent adhesion of corneal epithelial tissue on synthetic lenticules in vivo
Authors: Evans MDM , Xie RZ , Tout SD , Steele JG , Sweeney DF 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: In intact cornea, firm anchorage of the epithelium to its underlying stroma is provided by a system of adhesive structures, which include the epithelial basement membrane, adhesion complexes and associated α6β4 integrin receptors. In the present study we sought to determine whether the sustained epithelialization of synthetic lenticules observed in vivo involved the formation of adhesive structures at the epithelial‐lenticule interface similar to those present in intact tissue. Methods: Collagen l‐coated microporous polycarbonate membranes were implanted in the anterior stroma of adult cats. Successfully epithelialized lenticules were maintained on eye for 9–12 weeks, after which time the epithelial‐lenticule interface was examined for evidence of adhesive structures using immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy. Results: Immunohistochemistry identified laminin, hemidesmosomal plaque, collagen VII and α6 integrin at the tissue‐lenticule interface. Ultrastructural examination showed evidence of assembly of these components into a basement membrane and adhesion complexes. Conclusions: The formation of these adhesive structures is likely to have contributed to the sustained epithelialization observed clinically on the collagen‐coated synthetic lenticules.
Recombinant adenovirus‐mediated gene delivery into the rat retinal pigment epithelium in vivo
Authors: Rakoczy PE , Lai CM , Shen WY , Daw N , Constable IJ 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: The present paper describes changes following the subretinal injection of a recombinant replicationdeficient adenovirus carrying the β‐galactosidase reporter gene construct into the rat retina. Methods: Ad. RSV. βgal‐mediated transduction of rat retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells in vitro and in vivo was examined following X‐gal staining. Results: There was a low level of β‐galactosidase expression in the RPE cells at 4 days postinjection. At 7 days postinjection, a strong transgene expression was present in RPE cells and the expression was maintained at 14 days postinjection. Except for the accumulation of cells at the site of the injection, the morphology of the rest of the retina remained normal. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that the RPE layer can be successfully targeted for gene delivery in the rat.
Non‐mydriatic fundus photography: A viable alternative to fundoscopy for identification of diabetic retinopathy in an Aboriginal population in rural Western Australia?
Authors: Diamond Jeremy P. , McKinnon Moira , Barry Christopher , Geary Darren , McAllister Ian L. , House Phillip , Constable Ian J. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the Canon CR5‐45NM non‐mydriatic fundus camera (Canon, Kanagawa, Japan) for identifying retinopathy and the need for laser treatment in a population of Aboriginal patients with diabetes mellitus in rural Western Australia. Methods: Diabetic Aboriginal patients were photographed through undilated pupils using a Canon CR5‐45NM nonmydriatic fundus camera, after which ophthalmoscopy was performed using indirect ophthalmoscopy through dilated pupils. The examining ophthalmologist recorded the presence of retinopathy and the need for laser treatment. A proportion of patients were rephotographed through dilated pupils. Photographs were reviewed by a second ophthalmologist who evaluated the quality of the image, the presence of retinopathy and the need for laser treatment. Results of fundus photographs and ophthalmoscopy were compared. Results: Three hundred and twenty‐eight eyes in 164 Aboriginal patients were examined. The mean patient age was 48.2 years (range 16–81 years) and the mean duration of diabetes was 7.5 years (range 1–35 years). Seventy‐four eyes (22.6%) were diagnosed with retinopathy using combined examination techniques, 44 (59.5%) of which were identified by ophthalmoscopy and 55 (74.3%) by photography. Thirty‐five eyes were deemed to need treatment, 18 (51.4%) of which were identified by ophthalmoscopy and 30 (85.7%) by photography. Kappa coefficient measurement for agreement for presence of retinopathy and need for referral was 0.41 and 0.53, respectively. Photograph quality was significantly improved following pupil dilation. Conclusions: The Canon CR5‐45NM non‐mydriatic fundus camera was relatively good at identifying diabetic retinopathy and could usefully be applied within a screening programme for treatable disease within this population.
Overview of studies on metabolic and vascular regulatory changes in early diabetic retinopathy*
Authors: Alder Valerie A. , Su Er Ning , Yu Dao‐Yi , Cringle Stephen , Yu Paula 
Published: November 2007

AbstractThe present review provides an overview of recent research describing functional changes to the retinal vasculature in very early diabetes. The research focuses on the streptozotocin rat model after 4–6 weeks of induced diabetes and describes functional changes to retinal blood flow, vascular control and retinal oxygenation, as well as a strong vasodilatory response to insulin in the retinal vasculature. The review raises the question of whether choroid dysfunction is also a feature of diabetic retinopathy.
Immunoglobulin G crystalline keratopathy associated with monoclonal gammopathy
Authors: Hutchinson Kenneth , Pra Mark Dal , Apel Andrew 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: Two cases of corneal crystal deposition are reported, both caused by a benign monoclonal gammopathy. Methods: Similar corneal pathology is identified in these two patients, both of whom presented with visual acuities of 6/6 or better Consideration of possible causes involved biochemical and haematological testing and assessment. Results: Potential for malignant transformation of monoclonal gammopathy was recognized, hence the need for ongoing haematological follow‐up. Conclusion: Corneal crystals may be the initial presentation in a patient with monoclonal gammopathy, a rare, but significant, clinical finding.
Ethnic Ties: Social Capital and the Question of Mobilisability
Authors: Anthias Floya 
Published: November 2007

This paper reflects on the concept of social capital through a discussion of the differential uses of ethnic ties for minority ethnic groups. It is argued that we should confine the notion of social capital to mobilisable social ties and networks. Resources such as those found in ethnic networks and bonds will only be social capital if they are mobilisable and usable in pursuing social advantage. This will only happen in the presence of a number of factors including the social valuation of the ethnic ties both within and outside the ethnic category, the social location of the actor (for example their gender) and the social context. The paper elaborates a concept of social capital which recognises the need to embed it within social hierarchies.
NR2A and NR2B subunit containing NMDA receptors differentially regulate striatal output pathways
Authors: Fantin Martina , Marti Matteo , Auberson Yves P. , Morari Michele 
Published: November 2007

AbstractTriple probe microdialysis was employed to investigate whether striatal NR2A and NR2B subunit containing NMDA receptors regulate the activity of striato‐pallidal and striato‐nigral projection neurons. Probes were implanted in the striatum, ipsilateral globus pallidus and substantia nigra reticulata. Intrastriatal perfusion with the NR2A subunit selective antagonist (R)‐[(S)‐1‐(4‐bromo‐phenyl)‐ethylamino]‐(2,3‐dioxo‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydroquinoxalin‐5‐yl)‐methyl]‐phosphonic acid (NVP‐AAM077) reduced pallidal GABA and increased nigral glutamate (GLU) release whereas perfusion with the NR2B subunit selective antagonist (R‐(R*,S*)‐α‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐β‐methyl‐4‐(phenylmethyl)‐1‐piperidinepropanol (Ro 25‐6981) reduced nigral GABA and elevated striatal and pallidal GLU release. To confirm that changes in GABA levels were because of blockade of (GLUergic‐driven) tonic activity of striatofugal neurons, tetrodotoxin was perfused in the striatum. Tetrodotoxin reduced both pallidal and nigral GABA release without changing GLU levels. To investigate whether striatal NR2A and NR2B subunits were also involved in phasic activation of striatofugal neurons, NVP‐AAM077 and Ro 25‐6981 were challenged against a NMDA concentration able to evoke GABA release in the three areas. Both antagonists prevented the NMDA‐induced striatal GABA release. NVP‐AAM077 also prevented the NMDA‐induced surge in GABA release in the globus pallidus, whereas Ro 25‐6981 attenuated it in the substantia nigra. We conclude that striatal NMDA receptors containing NR2A and NR2B subunits preferentially regulate the striato‐pallidal and striato‐nigral projection neurons, respectively.
Role of receptor internalization in the agonist‐induced desensitization of cannabinoid type 1 receptors
Authors: Wu Dai‐Fei , Yang Li‐Quan , Goschke Andrea , Stumm Ralf , Brandenburg Lars‐Ove , Liang Ying‐Jian , Höllt Volker , Koch Thomas 
Published: November 2007

AbstractAgonist‐induced internalization of G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) is an important mechanism for regulating signaling transduction of functional receptors at the plasma membrane. We demonstrate here that both caveolae/lipid‐rafts‐ and clathrin‐coated‐pits‐mediated pathways were involved in agonist‐induced endocytosis of the cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R) in stably transfected human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells and that the internalized receptors were predominantly sorted into recycling pathway for reactivation. The treatment of CB1 receptors with the low endocytotic agonist Δ9‐THC induced a faster receptor desensitization and slower resensitization than the high endocytotic agonist WIN 55,212‐2. In addition, the blockade of receptor endocytosis or recycling pathway markedly enhanced agonist‐induced CB1 receptor desensitization. Furthermore, co‐expression of phospholipase D2, an enhancer of receptor endocytosis, reduced CB1 receptor desensitization, whereas co‐expression of a phospholipase D2 negative mutant significantly increased the desensitization after WIN 55,212‐2 treatment. These findings provide evidences for the importance of receptor endocytosis in counteracting CB1 receptor desensitization by facilitating receptor reactivation. Moreover, in primary cultured neurons, the low endocytotic agonist Δ9‐THC or anandamide exhibited a greater desensitization of endogenous CB1 receptors than the high endocytotic agonist WIN 55,212‐2, CP 55940 or 2‐arachidonoyl glycerol, indicating that cannabinoids with high endocytotic efficacy might cause reduced development of cannabinoid tolerance to some kind cannabinoid‐mediated effects.
Factors Affecting Capacity Utilisation in English Channel Fisheries
Authors: Tingley Diana , Pascoe Sean 
Published: November 2007

AbstractThe harvesting capacity of the European fishing fleet far exceeds the reproductive potential of the resource base. As a result, most European Union fisheries are both biologically and economically over‐exploited. A series of fleet‐reduction policies have been introduced in order to bring the harvesting capacity in line with target output levels. However, the existence of unutilised capacity may reduce the effectiveness of these schemes as the remaining vessels may increase their individual capacity utilisation (CU), thus offsetting the effects of fleet reduction. In this paper, the effects of stock abundance, output prices, fuel prices and fleet size on the rate of capacity utilisation are examined for a range of UK fleet segments operating in the English Channel. Estimates of CU are derived using data envelopment analysis. Results indicate that the average beam trawl vessel, using existing physical inputs, could potentially increase its revenue by a further 50%, assuming current fish stock levels and unrestricted access to resources. The average gill net vessel could similarly increase its output by 43%, scallop dredge by 28% and otter trawl by 14%. The results suggest that changes in stock abundance are the main factor affecting CU, with no significant trends being observed for the economic variables.
Semi‐parametric Modelling of Investments in Heating Installations: The Case of the Dutch Glasshouse Industry
Authors: Lansink Alfons Oude , Pietola Kyosti 
Published: November 2007

AbstractThis paper applies a semi‐parametric approach to estimating a generalised model of investments in heating installations. The results suggest that marginal costs of investments in heating installations increase quickly at small investment levels, whereas the increase slows down at higher investment levels. Therefore, standard parametric adjustment cost models are probably biased such that they underestimate the costs of small investments and overestimate the costs of large investments. Results also show that investments in heating installations are very responsive to changes in energy prices. Therefore, an energy tax may be an effective instrument to encourage investments in new energy‐saving heating installations.