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The aim of this study was to evaluate a set of recombinant inbred lines (RILs) for agronomic and physiological traits under drought conditions and to locate quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with them. This study used a RIL population derived from a cross between drought tolerant (ILC 588) and susceptible (ILC 3279) genotypes. The population consisting of 155 RILs was grown under drought conditions in the field at Tel Hadya, Syria, in 2006 and 2007 and at Breda, Syria, in 2007. A genetic map consisting of eight linkage groups was developed using 97 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. The results revealed that high harvest index (HI), early flowering, and early maturity were the important attributes contributing to higher grain yield under drought. Higher stomatal conductance (gs) and cooler canopies (canopy temperature minus air temperature ETc-Ta]) can also lead to better performance under drought conditions. Quantitative trait locus analysis identified 15 genomic regions significantly associated with various traits affecting drought tolerance in chickpea. Important QTL detected in this study included two QTL for HI explaining 38% of the total phenotypic variability of the trait, four QTL for flowering explaining 45%, and three QTL for maturity explaining 52% on a cumulative basis. Three QTL for gs and six QTL for Tc-Ta also detected explained 7 to 15% phenotypic variability individually. Two QTL (Q3-1 and Q1-1) on linkage group 3 (LG3) and LG1 showed effects on many traits related to drought. Hence, these regions can be further explored in future drought studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Aberrant facial nerve regeneration (AFR) following facial nerve palsy may give rise to ptosis because of increased orbicularis tone. We describe a series of patients presenting with ptosis where the underlying aetiology of AFR was often not recognized by the referring clinicians. METHODS: Retrospective case review. RESULTS: A total of 15 cases with ptosis, secondary to AFR, were seen at the Royal Adelaide Hospital Oculoplastic Clinic between 2000 and 2002. Of these, 10 (67%) were referred by general ophthalmologists. Ptosis was the only reason for referral in 11 patients (73%) and features of AFR or a past history of facial nerve palsy were not mentioned in seven referrals (overall 46%). All patients reported a previous facial palsy. The palpebral aperture was reduced on the affected side with reduction in both upper and lower margin reflex distance (MRD) by a mean of 1.5±0.7?mm (P<0.001) and 1.0±0.3?mm (P<0.001), respectively. The orbicularis tone was increased and strength reduced on the affected side in all patients. However, none had lagophthalmos. Signs of AFR were demonstrated in all patients with either an increase in ptosis or eyelid closure on the affected side during cheek puffing. CONCLUSION: Patients with AFR following facial nerve palsy may present with ptosis without recognition of the underlying aetiology. Signs of AFR ptosis include a decreased palpebral aperture with a reduced upper and lower MRD. The diagnosis can be established with demonstration of an increase in ptosis during cheek puffing. Recognition of AFR is important in these cases owing to the implications for management and post-operative patient satisfaction.Eye (2004) 18, 159-162. doi:10.1038/sj.eye.6700599 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to assess whether patients have their ocular drops correctly prescribed during non-ophthalmic admissions to hospital. A retrospective review of notes of patients who were admitted to hospital for general medical or surgical care, while on regular eye drops at the time of admission was performed. Twenty two patients were on regular ocular medication when admitted. Only seven out of 22 patients had their eye drops correctly prescribed. Furthermore, six patients had been prescribed topical beta-blockers, yet suffered from medical conditions that may have been aggravated by these drops. These findings demonstrate that the majority of patients on drops do not have their medication correctly prescribed during non-ophthalmic admissions to hospital. Also topical beta-blockers continue to be inappropriately prescribed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]