Adobe Photoshop Software Research Articles

Deletion of Cysteine Cathepsins B or L Yields Differential Impacts on Murine Skin Proteome and Degradome

Numerous studies highlight the fact that concerted proteolysis is essential for skin morphology and function. The cysteine protease cathepsin L (Ctsl) has been implicated in epidermal proliferation and desquamation, as well as in hair cycle regulation. In stark contrast, mice deficient in cathepsin B (Ctsb) do not display an overt skin phenotype. To understand the systematic consequences of deleting Ctsb or Ctsl, we determined the protein abundances of >1300 proteins and proteolytic cleavage events in skin samples of wild-type, Ctsb(-/-), and Ctsl(-/-) mice via mass-spectrometry-based proteomics. Both protease deficiencies revealed distinct quantitative changes in proteome composition. Ctsl(-/-) skin revealed increased levels of the cysteine protease inhibitors cystatin B and cystatin M/E, increased cathepsin D, and an accumulation of the extracellular glycoprotein periostin. Immunohistochemistry located periostin predominantly in the hypodermal connective tissue of Ctsl(-/-) skin. The proteomic identification of proteolytic cleavage sites within skin proteins revealed numerous processing sites that are underrepresented in Ctsl(-/-) or Ctsb(-/-) samples. Notably, few of the affected cleavage sites shared the canonical Ctsl or Ctsb specificity, providing further evidence of a complex proteolytic network in the skin. Novel processing sites in proteins such as dermokine and Notch-1 were detected. Simultaneous analysis of acetylated protein N termini showed prototypical mammalian N-alpha acetylation. These results illustrate an influence of both Ctsb and Ctsl on the murine skin proteome and degradome, with the phenotypic consequences of the absence of either protease differing considerably.

NON-DESTRUCTIVE TECHNIQUE FOR DETERMINING MANGO MATURITY

Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is an important tropical fruit that has great potential in international markets. Currently, major markets for mango include North America, Europe, and Japan. The acceptance of exported mango in destination countries depends largely on eating quality, which is affected by maturity at harvest. Mango maturity can be judged visually, based on skin color, or determined chemically based on soluble solids content, acid content, and solids:acid ratio. Maturity determination based on visual observation is unreliable and prone to errors. On the other hand, determination based on sugar or soluble solids to acid ratio is destructive. Therefore, it is important to develop a simple, reliable and non-destructive technique for mango maturity determination. In this study, a reliable and non-destructive technique has been developed and tested. This technique uses a digital camera to capture an image of the mango skin. Images obtained were analyzed using an image processing software (Adobe Photoshop) to obtain color parameters (L, a, b values). Each of the color parameters was plotted against soluble solids content, total acid content, and solids:acid ratio and curve fitting was then applied to obtain polynomial equations. Results indicate that the color parameters can adequately predict the above maturity indices and, therefore, can be used to predict maturity of mango.

Computer-Assisted Analysis of Images for Evaluation of Long-Term Reduction Mammaplasty Results

To the Editor, Measurement methods that can evaluate breasts after reduction mammaplasty enable evaluation of changes in the breasts over time. Many researchers have focused on direct methods for measuring breast volume and size such as topography, anthropometric measurements, mammography, magnetic resonance imaging, biometric evaluations, stereophotographic techniques, the water displacement method, and measurements using special devices [1–5]. Most of these methods are time-consuming, cumbersome, and impractical for use in clinical settings. Furthermore, these techniques are not easily available, feasible, or cost effective. Moreover, some of the methods require complicated formulas for analyses. Plastic surgeons routinely use photographs to evaluate and record the preand postoperative appearance of patients. We developed a computer-assisted analysis of photographic images that can be used to evaluate shortand long-term changes after reduction mammaplasty using Adobe Photoshop CS software (Adobe systems Inc., San Jose, CA, USA). This study aimed to evaluate and compare the long-term results after reduction mammaplasty. Bottoming-out deformity, nipple transposition distance, and other distortions can be analyzed objectively using the method of analysis we developed. The method also enables selfevaluation by the surgeon, which can be used to increase knowledge about reduction mammaplasty procedures. Ewart et al. [6] reported using Adobe Photoshop software to plan surgery for two rhinoplasty patients. Karsidag et al. [7] used this software to evaluate the results of reduction mammaplasty by combining half-views of preand postoperative images in the same frame for comparison. Kreithen et al. [8] used a PowerPoint presentation for photographic comparisons of different reduction techniques. The preoperative measurements included the midclavicle-to-nipple distance, the sternal notch-to-nipple distance, the inframammary fold-to-nipple distance, the diameter of the nipple–areola complex (NAC), the width of the pedicle, and the planned postoperative NAC position. Standard anterior, lateral, and oblique digital photographs were taken with the patient in the standing position using a Nikon D100 (Nikon Inc., Melville, NY, USA) digital camera at a distance of 1.5 m. All photos were taken using a standardized position and distance with the same camera. The settings of the camera such as zoom, light, pixels, and the like were the same while the photos were taken. The same sets of photographs also were taken during the early postoperative period (B6 months) and the late postoperative period ([2 years). All measurements were routinely recorded in a database program. C. Firat Department of Plastic Surgery, Inonu University School of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey

Morphology of apical foramen in permanent molars and premolars in a Turkish population

Objective: To determine the number, shape and diameter of minor apical foramina, the distance between apical foramina and anatomical apex and the frequency of accessory foramina in a Turkish population. Materials and methods: Eight hundred permanent maxillary and mandibular teeth were collected. The roots were stained with methylene blue and the apices were examined with a stereomicroscope (×40) and transferred to a computer to perform the measurements using Adobe Photoshop software. Results: The incidence of one apical foramen was highest in distobuccal roots of the maxillary first molars and was lowest in the maxillary first premolars with single roots. The distance of deviation in all the teeth was between 0.271–0.519 mm. The frequency of accessory foramina was between 30–70% for the various tooth types. Conclusions: The results of this in vitro study indicate that the morphology of apical foramina in this Turkish population may present highly complex anatomical variations.

Stress analysis in oral obturator prostheses: imaging photoelastic

Maxillary defects resulting from cancer, trauma, and congenital malformation affect the chewing efficiency and retention of dentures in these patients. The use of implant-retained palatal obturator dentures has improved the self-esteem and quality of life of several subjects. We evaluate the stress distribution of implant-retained palatal obturator dentures with different attachment systems by using the photoelastic analysis images. Two photoelastic models of the maxilla with oral-sinus-nasal communication were fabricated. One model received three implants on the left side of the alveolar ridge (incisive, canine, and first molar regions) and the other did not receive implants. Afterwards, a conventional palatal obturator denture (control) and two implant-retained palatal obturator dentures with different attachment systems (O-ring; bar-clip) were constructed. Models were placed in a circular polariscope and a 100-N axial load was applied in three different regions (incisive, canine, and first molar regions) by using a universal testing machine. The results were photographed and analyzed qualitatively using a software (Adobe Photoshop). The bar-clip system exhibited the highest stress concentration followed by the O-ring system and conventional denture (control). Images generated by the photoelastic method help in the oral rehabilitator planning.

CIE L*a*b*: comparison of digital images obtained photographically by manual and automatic modes

The aim of this study was to analyze the color alterations performed by the CIE L*a*b* system in the digital imaging of shade guide tabs, which were obtained photographically according to the automatic and manual modes. This study also sought to examine the observers' agreement in quantifying the coordinates. Four Vita Lumin Vaccum shade guide tabs were used: A3.5, B1, B3 and C4. An EOS Canon digital camera was used to record the digital images of the shade tabs, and the images were processed using Adobe Photoshop software. A total of 80 observations (five replicates of each shade according to two observers in two modes, specifically, automatic and manual) were obtained, leading to color values of L*, a* and b*. The color difference (ΔE) between the modes was calculated and classified as either clinically acceptable or unacceptable. The results indicated that there was agreement between the two observers in obtaining the L*, a* and b* values related to all guides. However, the B1, B3, and C4 shade tabs had ΔE values classified as clinically acceptable (ΔE = 0.44, ΔE = 2.04 and ΔE = 2.69, respectively). The A3.5 shade tab had a ΔE value classified as clinically unacceptable (ΔE = 4.17), as it presented higher values for luminosity in the automatic mode (L* = 54.0) than in the manual mode (L* = 50.6). It was concluded that the B1, B3 and C4 shade tabs can be used at any of the modes in digital camera (manual or automatic), which was a different finding from that observed for the A3.5 shade tab.

Matrix Metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) Directly and Indirectly Promotes Tumor Angiogenesis

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are extracellular zinc-dependent endopeptidases involved in the degradation and remodeling of extracellular matrix in physiological and pathological processes. MMPs also have a role in cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, angiogenesis, and apoptosis. We previously identified cancer invasion-related factors by comparing the gene expression profiles between parent and the highly invasive clone of cancer cells. Matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) was identified as a common up-regulated gene by cancer invasion-related factors. Although MMP-13 slightly promoted tumor invasion, we found that MMP-13 was involved in tumor angiogenesis. Conditioned medium from MMP-13-overexpressing cells promoted capillary formation of immortalized human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Furthermore, treatment with recombinant MMP-13 protein enhanced capillary tube formation both in vitro and in vivo. MMP-13-promoted capillary tube formation was mediated by activation of focal adhesion kinase and ERK. Interestingly, MMP-13 promoted the secretion of VEGF-A from fibroblasts and endothelial cells. By immunohistochemical analysis, we found a possible correlation between MMP-13 expression and the number of blood vessels in human cancer cases. In summary, these findings suggest that MMP-13 may directly and indirectly promote tumor angiogenesis.

Measurement of meat color using a computer vision system

The limits of the colorimeter and a technique of image analysis in evaluating the color of beef, pork, and chicken were investigated. The Minolta CR-400 colorimeter and a computer vision system (CVS) were employed to measure colorimetric characteristics. To evaluate the chromatic fidelity of the image of the sample displayed on the monitor, a similarity test was carried out using a trained panel. The panelists found the digital images of the samples visualized on the monitor very similar to the actual ones (P<0.001). During the first similarity test the panelists observed at the same time both the actual meat sample and the sample image on the monitor in order to evaluate the similarity between them (test A). Moreover, the panelists were asked to evaluate the similarity between two colors, both generated by the software Adobe Photoshop CS3 one using the L*, a* and b* values read by the colorimeter and the other obtained using the CVS (test B); which of the two colors was more similar to the sample visualized on the monitor was also assessed (test C). The panelists found the digital images very similar to the actual samples (P<0.001). As to the similarity (test B) between the CVS- and colorimeter-based colors the panelists found significant differences between them (P<0.001). Test C showed that the color of the sample on the monitor was more similar to the CVS generated color than to the colorimeter generated color. The differences between the values of the L*, a*, b*, hue angle and chroma obtained with the CVS and the colorimeter were statistically significant (P<0.05–0.001). These results showed that the colorimeter did not generate coordinates corresponding to the true color of meat. Instead, the CVS method seemed to give valid measurements that reproduced a color very similar to the real one.

Requirement of neuronal connexin36 in pathways mediating presynaptic inhibition of primary afferents in functionally mature mouse spinal cord

Electrical synapses formed by gap junctions containing connexin36 (Cx36) promote synchronous activity of interneurones in many regions of mammalian brain; however, there is limited information on the role of electrical synapses in spinal neuronal networks. Here we show that Cx36 is widely distributed in the spinal cord and is involved in mechanisms that govern presynaptic inhibition of primary afferent terminals. Electrophysiological recordings were made in spinal cord preparations from 8- to 11-day-old wild-type and Cx36 knockout mice. Several features associated with presynaptic inhibition evoked by conditioning stimulation of low threshold hindlimb afferents were substantially compromised in Cx36 knockout mice. Dorsal root potentials (DRPs) evoked by low intensity stimulation of sensory afferents were reduced in amplitude by 79% and in duration by 67% in Cx36 knockouts. DRPs were similarly affected in wild-types by bath application of gap junction blockers. Consistent with presynaptic inhibition of group Ia muscle spindle afferent terminals on motoneurones described in adult cats, conditioning stimulation of an adjacent dorsal root evoked a long duration inhibition of monosynaptic reflexes recorded from the ventral root in wild-type mice, and this inhibition was antagonized by bicuculline. The same conditioning stimulation failed to inhibit monosynaptic reflexes in Cx36 knockout mice. Immunofluorescence labelling for Cx36 was found throughout the dorsal and ventral horns of the spinal cord of juvenile mice and persisted in mature animals. In deep dorsal horn laminae, where interneurones involved in presynaptic inhibition of large diameter muscle afferents are located, cells were extensively dye-coupled following intracellular neurobiotin injection. Coupled cells displayed Cx36-positive puncta along their processes. Our results indicate that gap junctions formed by Cx36 in spinal cord are required for maintenance of presynaptic inhibition, including the regulation of transmission from Ia muscle spindle afferents. In addition to a role in presynaptic inhibition in juvenile animals, the persistence of Cx36 expression among spinal neuronal populations in the adult mouse suggests that the contribution of electrical synapses to integrative processes in fully mature spinal cord may be as diverse as that found in other areas of the CNS.

Formation of duodenal atresias in fibroblast growth factor receptor 2IIIb−/− mouse embryos occurs in the absence of an endodermal plug

PurposeDuodenal atresia in humans has been hypothesized to arise from a failure of the duodenal lumen to recanalize after formation of an endodermal plug. Recently, mutations in the fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 gene (Fgfr2IIIb) have been shown to cause atretic defects of the duodenum in mice. However, work in rats suggests that murine species do not form an endodermal plug during normal duodenal development. These lines of data led us to hypothesize that mice are able to form a duodenal atresia in the absence of an endodermal plug. To test this hypothesis, we examined duodenal development in wild-type and Fgfr2IIIb−/− embryos. MethodsParaffin sections were generated for H&E, E-cadherin, or terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated X-dUTP nick end labeling staining from Fgfr2IIIb−/− and wild-type embryos between embryonic days (E) 10.5 and E14.5. Sections were photographed and reconstructed into 3-dimensional display using Adobe Photoshop and Amira Visage software. ResultsNormal mouse duodenum does not form an endodermal plug, although a plug does form in the pyloric region of the stomach at E14.5. Fgfr2IIIb−/− embryos experience significant apoptosis in the duodenal region at E10.5, followed by the disappearance of the endoderm in the atretic precursor by E11.5. Thereafter, the mesoderm of the atretic precursor involutes over the next 2 days in the absence of further apoptosis. Interestingly, an endodermal plug was not observed at any point during the formation of a duodenal atresia. ConclusionsThese results suggest that duodenal atresia in the Fgfr2IIIb−/− model does not arise from persistence of an epithelial plug. Rather it appears to result from the loss of the endoderm because of apoptosis very early in development.

Shaping of the Root Canal Using Er:YAG Laser Irradiation

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the degree of Er:YAG laser irradiation at the apical area in vitro. Since the laser was developed, advancement of laser treatment has been seen in various fields. However, few reports exist on shaping of the root canal using Er:YAG laser irradiation. Six single-rooted human teeth were used. The working length of root canals was set at 6.5 mm, and they were enlarged to apical file size #25. An Er:YAG laser and cone-shaped irradiation tips (R135T and R200T) were used. Laser irradiation conditions were 30 m J, 20 pps, and water flow of 5 mL/min. Samples were irradiated three times for 10 sec each using each tip. To evaluate the cutting degree of horizontal area of the root canal, the laser-irradiated surfaces were observed using microfocus X-ray computed tomographic photography before and after every irradiation. The samples were observed under a scanning electron microscope. Measurement of pixels in an area was performed by image-editing software (Adobe Photoshop 7.0). Statistical analysis was performed using StatView (version 5.0). One-way ANOVA and the Tukey-Kramer tests were used; p<0.05 indicated statistical significance. When root canals were irradiated with R200T for 10 sec (p<0.05), a large amount of evaporation (0.12 ± 1.07 mm(2)) was acquired in their cut area compared with the other irradiation conditions. In scanning electron microscopic observation, there was no smear layer and the dentinal tubules were open. When the distance between the tip and root dentin was adjacent, the shaping of root dentin by Er:YAG laser irradiation was definitely observed.

Influence of certain tooth characteristics on the esthetic evaluation of a smile

OBJECTIVE: To assess the influence of certain dental characteristics on the perception of smile esthetics by undergraduate dentistry students. METHODS: Ten digital photographs of a woman's smile were modified using Adobe Photoshop software. The following changes were performed: stain removal; incisal edge straightening; gingival leveling; closure of black triangles. A group of 60 undergraduate dental students evaluated the original photograph and the altered images using a visual analog scale to evaluate smile esthetics. Intraexaminer agreement was checked for 30 examiners using the Student t test; for casual error, the Dahlberg formula was used. Data were described as means and standard deviations, and reported in tables. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences between the first and second scores assigned by examiners (p>0.05) in any of the comparisons made. The results of systematic error for the method indicated that the measures obtained were reliable. ANOVA was used to test equality of means, and the level of significance was set at 5%. Equality of variances was evaluated using Levene's test, and results revealed that variances were equal. Multiple comparisons using the Tukey's test revealed statistical significance at a 5%level for the presence of black triangular space. No significant values were found for other comparisons. CONCLUSIONS: Some dental characteristics were perceived by undergraduate students, and the black triangular space was classified as the most unfavorable characteristic.

English

Camera images are amenable for manipulations by varied manageability's and manovorabilities for desperate purposes in the crime scenario. The invention of advanced and modern techniques of reproduction such as photocopiers, scanners have led to the prolifera- tion of original images available in original documents in one form or the other and consequently morphed images are entering in to the court rooms as evidences. Such instances are alarmingly increasing as the functionalities of image editing soft-wares allow an amateur to easily manipulate images. In some cases, they may be in the threshold of the requirements of a legal duplicate. In this paper, a case study of unearthing of such an entry of morphed images into court room in an attempt to derail justice is discussed. A technical approach evolved to detect digital alteration using image processing software Adobe Photoshop. The finding reveals that inconsistencies among the original and scanned images and their infringements have caused distortion. Experimental results demonstrate that scanned images are morphed . Keywords- scanner, signature, image analysis, adobe Photoshop.

Embryonic assembly of auditory circuits: spiral ganglion and brainstem

During early development, peripheral sensory systems generate physiological activity prior to exposure to normal environmental stimuli. This activity is thought to facilitate maturation of these neurons and their connections, perhaps even promoting efficacy or modifying downstream circuitry. In the mammalian auditory system, initial connections form at embryonic ages, but the functional characteristics of these early neural connections have not been assayed. We investigated processes of embryonic auditory development using a whole-head slice preparation that preserved connectivity between peripheral and brainstem stations of the auditory pathway. Transgenic mice expressing fluorescent protein provided observation of spiral ganglion and cochlear nucleus neurons to facilitate targeted electrophysiological recording. Here we demonstrate an apparent peripheral-to-central order for circuit maturation. Spiral ganglion cells acquire action potential-generating capacity at embryonic day 14 (E14), the earliest age tested, and action potential waveforms begin to mature in advance of comparable states for neurons of the ventral cochlear nucleus (VCN) and medial nucleus of the trapezoid body (MNTB). In accordance, auditory nerve synapses in the VCN are functional at E15, prior to VCN connectivity with the MNTB, which occurs at least 1 day later. Spiral ganglion neurons exhibit spontaneous activity at least by E14 and are able to drive third-order auditory brainstem neurons by E17. This activity precedes cochlear-generated wave activity by 4 days and ear canal opening by at least 2 weeks. Together, these findings reveal a previously unknown initial developmental phase for auditory maturation, and further implicate the spiral ganglion as a potential controlling centre in this process.

Stress distribution in implant-supported prosthesis with external and internal implant-abutment connections

Objective. This study aimed to investigate the stress distribution in screwed implant-supported prostheses with different implant-abutment connections by using a photoelastic analysis. Materials and methods. Four photoelastic models were fabricated in PL-2 resin and divided according to the implant-abutment connection (external hexagon (EH) and Morse taper (MT) implants (3.75 × 11.5 mm)) and the number crowns (single and 3-unit piece). Models were positioned in a circular polariscope and 100-N axial and oblique (45) loading were applied in the occlusal surface of the crowns by using a universal testing machine. The stresses were photographically recorded and qualitatively analyzed using software (Adobe Photoshop). Results. Under axial loading, the MT implants exhibited a lower number of fringes for single-unit crowns than EH implants, whereas for a 3-unit piece the MT implants showed a higher number of fringes vs EH implants. The oblique loading increased the number of fringes for all groups. Conclusion. In conclusion, the MT implant-abutment connection reduced the amount of stress in single-unit crowns, for 3-unit piece crowns the amount of stress was lower using an external hexagon connection. The stress pattern was similar for all groups. Oblique loading promoted a higher stress concentration than axial loading.

Digital Two Dimensional (2D) Implant Design for Pre-operative Planning in Total Hip Arthroplasty

Pre-operative planning is very important in the process of a Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) because it is a method for determining the size and optimal implant position. According to experts from Medical Center of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKMMC), manual methods are still used to find a suitable implant size for the patient. By using the manual method, any error in template transformation such as rotating and scaling while recording the patient's hip bone radiographs prior to the surgery will lead to errors in determining the size of implant templates. Therefore, a digital method should be developed so that the implant size detection process can be effectively implemented. Manual implant template used by UKMMC is using as the basis for the hip joint implant design. This template is redesign using AutoCAD 2010 software. Template generated in AutoCAD format will be converting to JPEG format so that it can be used in Adobe Photoshop software for colouring and scaling. A total of ten X- ray patients were randomly selected to test the accuracy and effectiveness of the digital implant. Results showed this digital technique predicted stem component size well, with 80% within ±1 size and acetabular component was predicted slightly better with 90% within ±2 component size.

The Temporal Sequence of the Mammalian Neocortical Neurogenetic Program Drives Mediolateral Pattern in the Chick Pallium

The six-layered neocortex permits complex information processing in all mammalian species. Because its homologous region (the pallium) in nonmammalian amniotes has a different architecture, the ability of neocortical progenitors to generate an orderly sequence of distinct cell types was thought to have arisen in the mammalian lineage. This study, however, shows that layer-specific neuron subtypes do exist in the chick pallium. Deep- and upper-layer neurons are not layered but are segregated in distinct mediolateral domains in vivo. Surprisingly, cultured chick neural progenitors produce multiple layer-specific neuronal subtypes in the same chronological sequence as seen in mammals. These results suggest that the temporal sequence of the neocortical neurogenetic program was already inherent in the last common ancestor of mammals and birds and that mammals use this conserved program to generate a uniformly layered neocortex, whereas birds impose spatial constraints on the sequence to pattern the pallium.

Small GTPase Rab17 Regulates Dendritic Morphogenesis and Postsynaptic Development of Hippocampal Neurons

Neurons are compartmentalized into two morphologically, molecularly, and functionally distinct domains: axons and dendrites, and precise targeting and localization of proteins within these domains are critical for proper neuronal functions. It has been reported that several members of the Rab family small GTPases that are key mediators of membrane trafficking, regulate axon-specific trafficking events, but little has been elucidated regarding the molecular mechanisms that underlie dendrite-specific membrane trafficking. Here we show that Rab17 regulates dendritic morphogenesis and postsynaptic development in mouse hippocampal neurons. Rab17 is localized at dendritic growth cones, shafts, filopodia, and mature spines, but it is mostly absent in axons. We also found that Rab17 mediates dendrite growth and branching and that it does not regulate axon growth or branching. Moreover, shRNA-mediated knockdown of Rab17 expression resulted in a dramatically reduced number of dendritic spines, probably because of impaired filopodia formation. These findings have revealed the first molecular link between membrane trafficking and dendritogenesis.

Use of a Photographic Manipulation Tool to Assess Corneal Vascular Response

Corneal vasculature change in contact lens wearers has been linked to the level of hypoxia within the cornea.To assess the impact a treatment has on limbal vessels, a sensitive method of measurement and quantification is required. A group of 21 highly myopic, hydrogel wearers, with preexisting signs of corneal hypoxia, were enrolled into a study where they wore sifilcon A penetrated hydrogel lenses (Dk/t ± 117), on a daily wear basis for 9 months. At all scheduled visits, photographs were taken of the superior, inferior, temporal, and nasal limbal regions which were then imported into Adobe Photoshop. A red-free filter was applied to enhance the contrast of the blood columns. In each quadrant, the length of the longest visible blood column was measured and the blood columns that penetrated 0.5 mm into the cornea were counted. A control group of 11 non-lens wearers was recruited. Their photographs were taken at the beginning of the study and 9 months later. An independent, masked observer assessed the photographs. There was a significant decrease in the maximum penetration of the blood column in all quadrants (p = 0.001) from baseline to the 9-month visit (e.g., superior: baseline 0.84 ± 0.39 mm; 9 months 0.63 ± 0.20 mm). There was also significant reduction in the number of visible blood columns longer than 0.5 mm in each quadrant (p = 0.001) from baseline to 9 months in all quadrants (e.g., superior: baseline 14.0 ± 8.2; 9 months 6.5 ± 6.0). The control group showed no change over time for the maximum blood column length (p = 0.638) or the number of columns 0.5 mm (p = 0.341). A group of highly myopic subjects exhibited reduction in the maximum length and number of blood columns in the cornea when ref it with a highly permeable silicone hydrogel material. The use of photography, along with Adobe Photoshop software, provides a reliable way of measuring corneal vascular responses over time.

An evaluation of contrast medium spread on caudal epidurography with the needle positioned toward the affected side in patients with unilateral lumbosacral radiculopathy

We used caudal epidurography to compare the spread of contrast medium when the needle was inserted toward the affected side in patients with unilateral radiculopathy undergoing caudal steroid injection. We enrolled 24 patients with unilateral radiculopathy. A block needle was positioned toward the affected side in the sacral epidural space. After 5mL of iodinated contrast medium was injected, a standardized anteroposterior view was imaged. Using Adobe Photoshop software, contrast medium spread was assessed by counting pixels within the areas spread on the affected side and on the opposite side, and the pixel counts of the two sides were compared. Spinal nerve root filling was also assessed. The pixel count within the area of contrast medium spread on the side with the needle was significantly greater than that of the opposite side (mean [SD] 41,368.6 [13,143.1] vs 15,165.3 (10,698.1), P < 0.001]. However, 13.6% of the study patients had greater spread on the opposite side. The rates of L5 and S1 nerve root filling in the affected side were 18.2% and 36.4% respectively. When a needle was intentionally inserted toward the side with radiculopathy, the spread of contrast medium and number of delineated roots tended to be greater on the side with the needle, compared with those on the opposite side. However, the pattern of contrast medium spread in the sacral epidural space varied and some patients even had greater spread on the opposite side.