bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cell reaction and pigment deposits on the posterior chamber intraocular lens
Authors: Lumme Pirkko , Laatikainen Leila
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Cellular reaction and pigment deposits on the intraocular lens were evaluated by biomicroscopy in 220 eyes which had undergone estracapsular cataract extraction and implantation of a posterior chamber intraocular lens 3 months previously. No cells or pigment were observed on the intraocular lens in 32% of the eyes, while small cells and/or pigment were found in 32% and giant cells with or without pigment and small cells were seen in 35%. In a sample of 28 eyes the clinical findings correlated with the findings in specular microphotographs. The corresponding percentages were 32, 36 and 32% in biomicroscopy and 14, 36 and 50% in specular micro‐photography. The giant cell reaction was notably (p < 0.001) associated with the presence of exfoliation. Previous ocular diseases and operations did not increase the frequency of cellular reaction.
Risk factors for an inflammatory response after extracapsular cataract extraction and posterior chamber IOL
Authors: Drolsum Liv , Davanger Martin , Haaskjold Erling
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Risk factors for developing an inflammatory response after extracapsular cataract extraction with implantation of posterior chamber IOL have been studied. Out of 1154 cases included in the study, an inflammatory response was encountered in 63 eyes (5.5%). The inflammatory response was defined as increased cellular flare and/or as a fibrinous reaction during a follow‐up of 4 months. Thirteen of the 63 eyes (20.6%) developed cellular precipitates, and posterior synechias were seen in 34 of these eyes (54.0%). Among 10 pre‐ and 10 peroperative putative risk factors analyzed in a logistic regression model, 5 variables had a statistically significant influence on the probability of developing postoperative inflammation; 1) Uveitis in history (p = 0.0001), 2) Pseudo‐exfoliation syndrome (p = 0.0224), 3) Inability to obtain adequate mydriasis at the start of surgery (p < 0.0001), 4) Problems with IOL implantation (p = 0.0111) and 5) Pigment effusion during surgery (p = 0.0258).
The visual prognosis following HLA‐matched keratoplasty for high‐risk patients
Authors: Claoué Charles , Buckley Roger , Steele Arthur
Published: May 2009

Abstract. We report the clinical details of 30 HLA‐matched corneal grafts with a mean follow‐up of 29 months. Few of the patients were immunologically naive as almost all had received previous unmatched grafts. The two‐year survival rate was 77%, comparable with other series. A majority of patients obtained good vision, and this was statistically superior to a recent large series. Almost all remained on their topical medication indefinitely. The contralateral visual acuity was surprisingly good, but there are few published data for comparison. We were unable to document an enhanced prognosis with a higher degree of HLA‐A, B or DR match, possibly because of the small numbers.
Correction of astigmatism with Excimer laser transverse keratectomy
Authors: Schipper Isaak , Suppelt Christine , Senn Peter
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Transverse keratectomies with the Excimer laser were performed on seven eyes of 4 patients with a mean, naturally occurring astigmatism of 5.32D (sd 1.0), range 4.25 to 7.0D. One month later mean astigmatism was 3.46D (sd 1.35), 3 months later 3.8D (sd 1.35), rising to 4.3D (sd 1.6) after 6 months, and to 4.68 (sd 1.4) after 1 year. The refractive cylinder was reduced from a mean of 5.8D to 4.5D and the mean unconnected visual acuity rose from 0.16 to 0.3. No serious complications occurred, and uncorrected visual acuity could be improved slightly. Excimer laser transverse keratectomy cannot be recommended as a good method to treat high degrees of naturally occurring astigmatism.
Cell kinetics of conjunctival and corneal epithelium during regeneration of different‐sized corneal epithelial defects
Authors: Sandvig Kjell U. , Haaskjold Erling , Bjerknes Rolf , Refsum Sigvald B. , Kravik Katherine
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Rats with small (diam. 1.7 mm), medium sized (diam. 35 mm) or large (diam. 5.5 mm) corneal epithelial erosions in one eye were killed 1,2 or 4 days after the injury. The proliferative response was evaluated by measuring the labelling index and the mitotic rate in the corneal epithelium and in the adjacent conjunctiva. The small erosions triggered a proliferative response in the cornea only with the maximum response occurring midperipherally. The medium sized erosions induced a higher and more extensive response in the cornea and also a slight increase of the labelling index in the limbal area. The large erosions induced an even more pronounced response in the peripheral cornea and an increase both of the labelling index and the mitotic rate well beyond the limbal part of the conjunctiva. It is concluded that the magnitude and the extent both of the conjunctival and the corneal regenerative response to a corneal abrasion is correlated to the size of the corneal defect. Temporary reduction in the conjunctival epithelial cell number shows that both cells in the limbal and the extralimbal conjunctiva migrate centri‐petally during healing of large corneal wounds. It is suggested that the stem cell theory should be modified. The limbal area is probably an area in which conjunctival epithelial cells or conjunctiva‐derivated cells transform or differentiate to corneal epithelial cells.
Retinal light sensitivity of the central visual field among 70‐ to 81‐year‐old men and women
Authors: Pärssinen Olavi , Era Pertti , Jokela Jukka , Suominen Harri
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Retinal light sensitivity of the central visual field (0–30°), visual acuity, intraocular pressure and pupillary size were screened in 42 men and 42 women aged 70 to 81 years. The subjects were randomly selected from the population register. After excluding the diagnosed glaucoma cases, the men had better visual field light sensitivity values than the women. They also had lower intraocular pressure and a wider pupillary diameter than the women, whereas there were no differences in visual acuity between the sexes. When the effect of pupillary size was controlled the differences in visual field light sensitivity values between men and women became nonsignificant. Among these elderly people there was a negative correlation between retinal light sensitivity and age among the men but not among the women.
Goniodysgenesis in familial primary open‐angle glaucoma
Authors: Verbraak F. D. , Berg W.v.d. , Delleman J. W. , Greve E. L.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Results of a pilot study to evaluate goniodysge‐nesis as a cause of familial open‐angle glaucoma are reported. Patients with a familial high tension open‐angle glaucoma and a goniodysgenetic chamber angle (n = 11), a number of their relatives with glaucoma (n = 12), and their relatives without glaucoma (n = 26) were compared to a group of normals (n = 120). Eight characteristics of gonio‐dysgenesis were scored and summed into a total gonio‐dysgenesis‐score for each chamber angle examined, a higher score corresponding to a more dysgenetic chamber angle. The distribution of the goniodysgenesis‐score was compared between the four groups studied. A highly significant difference (p < 0.001) was found between the prob‐ands and the normal population, but there was no difference in distribution between the relatives with glaucoma and the relatives without glaucoma. It is concluded that goniodysgenesis cannot explain the occurrence of glaucoma in the families investigated in this study. A significant difference was also found between the normal population and all the relatives combined, with higher scores in the group of relatives. An explanation could be that goniodysgenesis is inherited within the families studied, possibly in an autosomal dominant way, but independent of the occurrence of glaucoma.
Retinopathy of pancreatitis indicates multiple‐organ failure and poor prognosis in severe acute pancreatitis
Authors: Holló Gabor , Tarjáyi Mária , Varga Márta , Flautner Lajos
Published: May 2009

Abstract. During hospitalization for severe acute necro‐tizing pancreatitis, a connection between the onset of re‐tinopathy of pancreatitis and multiple‐organ failure was studied. Ophthalmoscopy was repeated every second day and continuous staging for multiple‐organ failure was performed in 38 patients. Typical retinopathy of pancreatitis developed in 7 of 10 patients with multiple‐organ failure and only in 4 of the 28 patients without multiple‐organ failure. Retinopathy of pancreatitis was observed in 7 of the 18 cases leading to lethal outcome and only in 4 of the 20 surviving patients. No correlation was observed between the development of retinopathy of pancreatitis and hemodialysis, pre‐existing diabetes mellitus, abnormal platelet count, result of hemoculture, c reactive protein value, fraction of inspired oxygen and adult respiratory distress syndrome. In the 21 control patients in grave general state but without acute pancreatitis, retinopathy of pancreatitis was never observed. In our prospective study the onset of retinopathy of pancreatitis had clinical prognostic value and indicated multiple‐organ failure and poor prognosis in severe acute necrotizing pancreatitis.
Management of congenital dacryocele
Authors: O'Keefe Michael , Shaikh Assifa , Bowell Roger , Lanigan Bernadette
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Congenital dacryocele is a distension of the naso‐lacrimal sac usually present at birth or in the first three months of life. It occurs commonly in females and may present with dacryocystitis. Treatment includes probing and antibiotics if infection is present.
Pattern of characteristics in cataract patients
Authors: Drolsum Liv , Davanger Martin , Haaskjold Erling
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Cataract extraction was performed in 1261 eyes. The relevant information was complete in 826 cases and thus only these were included in this study. Eleven variables describing clinical history, preoperative findings, operative problems and one variable representing visual acuity 4 months postoperatively were entered into a factor analysis model. Three factors were extracted by factor analysis, and these factors may be considered to be the underlying causes embracing the individual variables. Factor 1: the maculopathy factor; explained 23.3% of the total variance. Sixteen percent of the variance was attributable to Factor 2: the miosis factor. Lastly, Factor 3: operative problems; was responsible for 13.4% of the variance. The maculopathy factor was significantly associated with postoperative visual acuity (p < 0.001). Slight significant association was also found between the factor for operative problems and visual outcome, whereas no association was seen between the miosis factor and the final vision.
No‐show patients in an ophthalmological out‐patient department
Authors: Mäntyjärvi Maija
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Information on no‐show patients in an ophthalmological out‐patient department was collected and analyzed during one month in 1992 and compared to one month in 1993, after the introduction of a new policy of allocating fines to those patients who did not show for their appointments. In October 1992, 118 patients (6.4% out of 1837 scheduled appointments) and in 1993, 94 patients (5.5% out of 1710 appointments) did not show for the appointment. The strabismus unit showed the highest percentage of no‐show patients for both years (8.4% in 1992, 7.5% in 1993) and the low vision unit the lowest (4.6% in 1992, 4.1% in 1993). In 1992, Tuesday (8.9%), and in 1993 Monday (6.9%) were the weekdays with the highest percentages; the lowest was Wednesday (4.4% in 1992, 2.8% in 1993). By appointment type, consultations from other clinics had the highest percentage in both years (7.9% in 1992, 6.9% in 1993) while the lowest was visits to personnel other than a doctor (3.7% in both years). The age group 31–40 years had the most no‐show patients in both years (10.9% in 1992, 10.2% in 1993). The lowest percentage was in the age group 61–80 years (2.6–4.9% in 1992, 3.0–2.7% in 1993). To minimize broken appointments, it is important to inform the patient well about his disease and the significance of the examinations and follow‐up visits. As an economical result of the no‐show patients, a calculated income equivalent to the salary of about 3 persons in the nursing staff was lost.
Influence of serous suprachoroidal detachments on the results of trabeculectomy surgery
Authors: Stewart W. C. , Crinkley C. M. C.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. We evaluated the influence of early serous choroidal detachments upon the results of trabeculectomy surgery. In 18 consecutive patients with serous choroidal detachments we found no significant difference in the intraocular pressure or number of glaucoma medicines from individually matched controls one year postoperatively. Final intraocular pressure was not correlated to the duration (p = 0.427), time of onset following surgery (p = 0.669), or size (p = 0.149) of the serous choroidal detachment. Prior to onset of the serous choroidal detachment the anterior chamber depth, bleb height, number of glaucoma medications, and intraocular pressure were statistically similar to the control group (p > 0.05). Following detachment, anterior chamber depth, and bleb height remained similar, but intraocular pressure fell from 9.4 ± 6.5 to 4.6 ± 4.1 mmHg (p = 0.025). Postoperative complications were similar between groups. This study indicates that serous choroidal detachments following trabeculectomy which are limited in size or duration are not associated with a worsening of long‐term intraocular pressure control.
Screening for eye disease in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Kristinsson Jóhannes Kári , Stefánsson Einar , Jónasson Fridbert , Gislason Ingimundur , Björnsson Sigurdur
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A screening program for diabetic eye disease was established in Iceland in 1980. Approximately 90% of the insulin dependent patients in Iceland undergo annual eye examination and fundus photography and about a fifth of the type 2 diabetic patients. We report on 245 diabetic patients with type 2 diabetes. Any diabetic retinopathy was present in 100 patients (41%), proliferative retinopathy had been present in 17 (7%) and 24 (10%) had clinically significant diabetic macular edema. Twohundred and twenty‐four patients (91%) had visual acuity equal or better than 6/12 in their better eye, 17 patients (7%) with 6/18–6/36 in their better eye, and 4 patients (1.6%) equal or worse than 6/60 in their better eye.
A computerized system for localization of diabetic lesions from fundus images
Authors: Hellstedt T. , Palsi V.‐P. , Immonen I.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A computerized system for the localization of diabetic lesions from fundus photographs is described. The coordinates for each lesion in relation to reference points are determined from fundus images projected on a digitizing table. The program accepts some variation in coordinates for a single lesion, still to be recorded as the same lesion in a series of photographs, and the magnitude of this variation is adjustable. The data obtained from the localization program are transferred to a register program yielding the following parameters: number of lesions, new lesions, lost lesions, variable lesions, time of presence for lost lesions. These data can be further exported into Microsoft Excel 4, for analysis of large patient materials. An intra‐observer error of 0% and an inter‐observer error of 1.1% was found in localization of lesions from fundus images. The program was insensitive to small variations in the fundus pictures, but comparisons of 30° and 60° photographs of the same fundus, or 20° deviation of gaze, induced identification errors in 2.9% and 11.9% of localizations, respectively. With this system new parameters on diabetic fundus images can be obtained. The significance of these parameters in the progression of diabetic retinopathy will be analyzed in further studies.
Histopathological findings in failed human epikeratophakia lenticules
Authors: Wang Rong Guang , Hjortdal Jesper Ø. , Ehlers Niels , Krogh Erik
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Six human epikeratophakia lenticules were removed 1 to 23 months after refractive keratoplasty for aphakia (n = 2) and myopia (n = 4). The myopic group included one epi‐lenticule treated with ArF‐excimer laser for hyperopia. Reasons for removal were epithelial defect (n = 4), edema of host cornea (n = 1), and overcorrection (n = 1). The epi‐lenticule stroma showed centrally a regular fibrillar structure with a low keratocyte density. Electron microscopy (n = 1) revealed preserved cytoplasmic organelles and nuclear appearance. Mononuclear cells were absent. Polysaccharide was demonstrated in the stroma. Bowman's layer was normal without breaks. The epithelium had variable thickness. In the peripheral wound region stromal and epithelial irregularities were evident.
Interocular blur suppression and monovision
Authors: Collins M. J. , Goode A.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The ability of the binocular system to suppress blur from the defocused eye is an important mechanism underlying the success of monovision correction. With a group of 60 new monovision wearers, we found that blur suppression ability varied substantially between subjects and that crossed dominance influenced blur suppression ability. Symptoms of ghosting amongst the monovision wearers appeared to be influenced by the strength of rivalry dominance. An understanding of the suppression processes underlying monovision may assist in patient selection and management.
Profound long‐term hypotony without maculopathy after trabeculectomy with antimetabolite
Authors: Kee Changwon , Kaufman Paul L.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A 71‐year‐old white woman with primary open angle glaucoma received trabeculectomy with anti‐metabolite. After laser suture lysis, intraocular pressure has remained at 1–2 mmHg for 23 months and 12 months in the right and left eye, respectively. However, visual acuity has remained at the preoperative levels of 6/6 and 6/7.5 in the right and left eye, respectively, without hypotony maculopathy in either eye.
A case of mild ocular manifestations in pregnancy induced hypertension with HELLP syndrome
Authors: Wenzel Martin , Lehnen Harald
Published: May 2009

Abstract. There is a correlation between the degree of retinal changes and the severity of pregnancy induced hypertension. This correlation does not hold true for a subgroup of these patients with hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and a low platelet count. This array of findings has been termed HELLP syndrome by Weinstein (1982) and may be present although the clinical picture of severe preeclampsia is absent. Pregnancies complicated by HELLP syndrome are associated with poor maternal and fetal outcome. We report a case in which minor ocular signs led to the diagnosis of a HELLP syndrome. Ophthalmologists should be aware of this rare complication of pregnancy.
Ocular and cerebral blood flow measurements in healthy subjects
Authors: Kerty Emilia , Hørven Ivar , Dahl Arve , Nyberg‐Hansen Rolf
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The ocular and cerebral blood flow was studied in 15 healthy subjects using transcranial Doppler ultrasonography (2 MHz). The blood flow velocity in the precerebral carotid arteries, in the ophthalmic artery and in the middle cerebral artery was measured under baseline conditions and after i.v. administration of 1 g acetazolamide. To measure the intraocular pressure and the corneal indentation pulse amplitude, a dynamic tonometer was used. Pulsatile ocular blood volume was calculated from these values. After one single dose of acetazolamide a significant decrease in ophthalmic artery flow velocity, and a significant increase both in internal carotid and in middle cerebral artery velocity was found. A significant decrease in intraocular pressure and in pulsatile ocular volume after acetazolamide was also demonstrated. These findings suggest that the acute effect of acetazolamide may be associated with a reduced ocular blood flow, explaining some of the reduction in IOP.
Changing indications for penetrating keratoplasty
Authors: Haamann P. , Jensen O. M. , Schmidt P.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The indications for penetrating keratoplasty have changed over the past several years. One hundred and eighty cases of penetrating keratoplasty performed in the Department of Ophthalmology, Næstved Centralsygehus, Denmark, from January 1984 to December 1993, were analysed. Overall pseudophakic bullous keratopathy was the most common indication for penetrating keratoplasty (28.3%). This was followed by keratitis (13.9%), Fuchs' dystrophy (13.9%), regraft (11.1%), aphakic bullous keratopathy (10.0%) and keratoconus (6.7%). Pseudophakic bullous keratopathy was the most common indication for penetrating keratoplasty in 1989 and in each year from 1991 to 1993. Before 1989 the most common indications were keratitis (18.0%) and aphakic bullous keratopathy (14.8%). The emergence of pseudophakic bullous keratopathy, as the most common indication for penetrating keratoplasty, correlates well with the dramatic increase in the number of cataract extractions with intraocular lens implantation performed since the early 1980s. Especially semiflexible, closed‐loop anterior chamber lenses used in our department in the early years of the period, have been the cause of subsequent corneal edema.
Probenecid inhibition of the outward transport of fluorescein across the human blood‐retina barrier
Authors: Engler Claus B. , Sander Birgit , Larsen Michael , Koefoed Pernille , Parving Hans‐Henrik , Lund‐Andersen Henrik
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The effect of probenecid on the outward transport of fluorescein from vitreous to blood was studied in 13 insulin‐dependent diabetic patients with background retinopathy in a randomised double‐masked placebo controlled cross‐over study. Fluorescein and fluorescein glucuronide were separated in the vitreous and in plasma by differential spectrofluorometry. The data for fluorescein were analysed using a simplified mathematical model of the eye. The inward permeability was estimated from data obtained 1 h after injection and the outward transport from data obtained 7 h after injection. During placebo treatment the mean inward permeability was 3.75 times 10−7 cm/sec and the mean outward permeability was 2.25 times 10−5 cm/sec. During probenecid treatment the mean inward permeability was 3.34 times 10−7 cm/sec and the mean outward permeability was 1.44 times 10−5 cm/sec. Thus, we found no significant change in inward permeability (p = 0.5879), whereas a significant decrease of 36% was found in the outward permeability of fluorescein (p = 0.0171). The demonstration that the outward permeability, which is more than 100‐fold higher than the inward permeability in the healthy eye, is significantly decreased by probenecid, demonstrates that active transport is involved in movement of fluorescein across the blood‐retina barrier from the vitreous to the plasma.
Ocular distribution of carteolol after single and repeated ocular instillation in pigmented rabbits
Authors: Fujio Naoki , Kusumoto Naotoshi , Odomi Masaaki
Published: May 2009

Abstract.To investigate the distribution and elimination of carteolol in pigmented rabbits,14C‐carteolol eye drops were instilled singly and repeatedly. After single ocular instillation, the radioactivity in the iris and ciliary body reached maximum levels at 24 h. The elimination rate of pigmented tissues decreased at a half‐life of approximately 15 days. The concentration of radioacitivy in pigmented tissues increased markedly by repeating the ocular instillation and reached a maximum after the 8oth repeated instillation. The concentration of radioactivity at 1 h after 80th instillation was 63.7 times that in the iris, 61.1 times that in the ciliary body and 17.2 times that in the retina & choroid after single instillation. No accumulation of radioactivity was found in other ocular tissues.
Analgesics requirement after anterior segment surgery
Authors: Grunge‐Lowenrud Annika
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A questionnaire was designed to evaluate patients' postoperative symptoms and need for analgesics after cataract surgery and/or trabeculectomy. During the first week and the second week of the study period 5.7% and 7.4% of the patients reported having had postoperative pain. Patients provided with paracetamol after the operation took the tablets not only because of pain, but also for a number of other reasons. Patients not provided with paracetamol, and in need of analgesics, had access to painkillers at home.
Atypical visual loss in giant cell arteritis
Authors: Thystrup Jan , Knudsen Gitte Moos , Mogensen Anne Mellon , Fledelius Hans C.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Three patients with atypical ocular involvement due to histologically verified giant cell arteritis are reported. Prior to diagnosis, the first patient had periods of amaurosis fugax. He presented with normal vision. In spite of high‐dose systemic corticosteroid therapy, he became blind in the terminal stage of his disease due to bilateral occipital cortex infarctions, verified by CT‐scan. Autopsy revealed involvement of several intracranial arteries. In case No. 2 there was severe unilateral visual loss and cotton‐wool exudates in both eyes. Central vision recovered after corticosteroid therapy; in our experience this is unusual. In case No. 3 irreversible unilateral visual loss was typical for GCA, but the association with polyneuropathy unique. Neurological remission coincided with systemic corticosteroid therapy.
Posterior lenticonus, corneal opacity, glaucoma and preretinal membrane in a young woman
Authors: Tanihara Hidenobu , Honda Yoshihito
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A case of posterior lenticonus with corneal opacity, glaucoma and preretinal membrane is presented. Gonioscopic findings and slit‐lamp examination suggested that angle closure due to a large volume of the lens may have caused high intraocular pressure levels. Also, refractive error, exotropia and bilateral nystagmus were accompanied by posterior lenticonus in this case. Our case demonstrates a rare combination of abnormalities involving various ocular structures.
Primary argon laser trabeculoplasty vs pilocarpine II: Long‐term effects on intraocular pressure and facility of outflow
Authors: Bergeå Bengt , Bodin Lennart , Svedbergh Björn
Published: May 2009

Abstract In a prospective study 82 patients recently diagnosed with simple or capsular glaucoma were randomized to receive primary argon laser trabeculoplasty or pilocarpine treatment. A 2‐year follow‐up showed a better success rate in the laser group, with less need for additional therapy. The average intraocular pressure and peak pressure was lower and the daytime pressure variation was significantly less in the laser group. The better increase in facility of outflow in the laser group was not statistically significant. In capsular glaucoma, laser treatment resulted in a significantly lower average pressure than with medication. In simple glaucoma the effect was about the same in the two treatment groups. Increase in facility of outflow was significantly better in simple glaucoma than in capsular glaucoma. High initial intraocular pressure gave a significantly lower success rate. Primary argon laser trabeculoplasty as a single glaucoma treatment seems advantageous in comparison to medication with pilocarpine for regulating intraocular pressure.
The prevalence of macular degeneration in a cohort of institutionalized geriatric glaucoma patients
Authors: Peräsalo Ritva
Published: May 2009

Abstract Four hundred and twenty‐five eyes of 213 institutionalized geriatric patients (mean age 83.9 years), were studied. Fundus could be seen in 136 patients, in 234 glaucomatous eyes and in 37 eyes without glaucoma. A separate group of 100 control patients, matched according to age, sex and reasons for institutionalizing (mean age 81.3 years) was also studied. Fundus could be seen in 78 patients. There was no difference in the occurrence of diabetes mellitus among the study group and controls, but cerebral thrombosis occurred statistically significantly more often in glaucoma patients than in the controls. Macular degeneration occurred in 41% (56/136) of the glaucoma patients; in 27% (63/234) of glaucomatous eyes and in 43% (16/37) of nonglaucomatous eyes. Macular degeneration occurred bilaterally in less than half of the glaucoma patients. Macular degeneration occurred in 37% (29/78) of the control patients and bilaterally in most of the patients.
Early morphometry of a retinal dystrophy in Labrador Retrievers
Authors: Kommonen Bertel , Penn John S. , Kylmä Tarja , Karhunen Ulla , Dawson William W. , Tolman Barbara , Ukkola Tarja
Published: May 2009

Abstract Retinal morphometry was assessed in 7 dogs from a colony of Labrador Retrievers with dystrophic retinas at 1, 2, 3, 4 and 18 months of age. Rod outer segment length and outer nucelar layer width were measured in the central, midperipheral and peripheral retina at six locations along the vertical meridian. Early striking regional differences in onset and rate of progression were characteristic for this inherited retinal degeneration. Notably, some areas of the retina developed fully and normally before degenerating. The central parts of the vertical meridians showed slightly disorganized rod outer segments already at 1 month af age and they were significantly shorter than those of control animals at 3 and 4 months (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively). The rod outer segments of the midperipheral and peripheral regions were, however, comparable to control animals as late as at 4 months of age. At 18 months the rod outer segments of dystrophic animals were significantly shorter in all retinal regions (p < 0.0005). At that age the outer nuclear layer of the dystrophic animals had become significantly thinner than that of control animals in all retinal regions (p < 0.001), indicating a clear visual cell loss. It is reasonable to characterize this as a retinal degeneration having a relatively slow progression, which enhances its relevance to conditions of clincial significance.
Secretion of plasminogen activators by cells cultured from subretinal fluid
Authors: Sirén Vappu , Vaheri Antti , Immonen Ilkka
Published: May 2009

Abstract Secretion of plasminogen activators was examined in 11 cells cultures from subretinal fluid of patients with retinal detachment. The plasminogen activator production was compared to 4 retinal pigment epithelial cell cultures from post‐mortem donors with no known retinal pathology. Plasminogen activator activity was evaluated by zymography and was corrected for the total cell protein in the cultures. Cells from subretinal fluid had more proteolytic activity and secreted more active urokinase‐type plasminogen activator than retinal pigment epithelial cells of donor origin. It is possible that cells from subretinal fluid are modulated by the conditions in subretinal fluid to secrete more urokinase‐type plasminogen activator, generally considered to be a sign of invasive growth or that the subretinal fluid cultures contain other cell types than solely retinal pigment epithelial cells, such as pigmented macrophages, with an active plasminogen activator production. Alternatively, retinal pigment epithelial cells detached into the subretinal fluid may represent a selected population of retinal pigment epithelial cells with a more active extracellular proteolysis.
Retinochoroiditis in the acquired immune deficiency syndrome
Authors: Seregard Stefan
Published: May 2009

Abstract A number of opportunistic agents may cause retinitis or retinochoroiditis in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Minimal consecutive data is available on the histopathologically confirmed prevalence of these ocular infections. A total of 48 consecutive patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome‐related death underwent autopsy and had their eyes submitted for histopathological examination. Conventional light microscopy combined with immunohistochemistry revealed cytomegalovirus retinitis in 15 patients, toxoplasma gonddi retinochoroiditis in 3 patients and mycobacterial choroiditis in one individual with some infections being coexistent. Clinical examination prior to death was highly accurate in detecting cytomegalovirus retinitis, but failed to determine all non‐cytomegalovirus causes of retinochoroiditis. Ten of 15 patients with cytomegalovirus retinitis had associated non‐cular cytomegalovirus infections, most often in the brain and adrenals. After clinical detection of cytomegalovirus retinitis the median survival time was 5.5 months, not adversely affected by additional non‐ocular cytomegalovirus infection.
Anaerobic flora of the conjunctival sac in patients with AIDS and with anophthalmia compared with normal eyes
Authors: de Queiróz Campos Mauro Silveira , de Queiróz Campos D. e Silva Licia , Rehder José Ricardo C. L. , Lee Martha B. , O'Brien Terrence , McDonnell Peter J.
Published: May 2009

Abstract Relatively few investigations of anaerobic bacteria as ocular flora have been conducted, and their results have been contradictory. The conjunctival sacs of 22 normal subjects and of 14 patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, and 22 anophthalmic sockets were cultured for anaerobic bacteria Thirty‐four (77.3%) of the 44 eyes of normal subjects harbored anaerobic bacteria; Propionibacterium acnes was present in 28 eyes (63.6%), Lactobacillus species in 6 eyes (13.6%), and Veillonella species in 7 eyes (15.9%). The finding were very similar for anophthalmic sockets (p = 0.01), with 17 (77.3%) of the 22 sockets harboring anaerobes; Propionibacterium acnes was the organism identified in 16 (72.7%) of these sockets; Veillonella was identified in 4 (18.1%), Peptococcus niger in 3 (13.6%) and P. granulosum in 2 (9.0%) of these sockets. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome patients had the highest incidence of anaerobic organisms, with positive cultures obtained from 24 (85.7%) of the 28 eyes. Propionibacterium species were isolated from 16 (57.1%) of these eyes, Clostridium species from 10 (35.7%) eyes and Actinomyces species from 8 (28.6%) eyes. It thus appears that anaerobic organisms are common flora in normal conjunctival sacs and in anophthalmic sockets, as well as in the sacs of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome patients, but the latter group had a higher incidence (x2 = 0.87) and a spectrum of organisms that was different from that of the other two groups.
Absence of foveal avascular zone demonstrated by laser scanning fluorescein angiography
Authors: Sander Birgit , Larsen Michael , Engler Claus , Lund‐Andersen Henrik
Published: May 2009

Abstract We present laser scanning fluorescein angiograms of abnormal foveal capillary patterns in a healthy subject and an insulin‐dependent diabetic patient with mild diabetic retinopathy. In both subjects capillaries were seen to cross the central foveal area where capillaries are usually absent. The flow pattern of the foveal capillaries, which were visualised with the use of a laser scanning ophthalmoscope, was indistinguishable from that of the more peripheral capillaries, indicating that foveal vessels are functionally normal retinal capillaries. The two cases demonstrate that identification of abnormal capillary patterns induced by retinal disease such as diabetic retinopathy is made difficult by the marked interindividual variation in capillary anatomy. In prospective studies, however, the method may be capable of detecting subtle changes in early diabetic retinopathy with a high degree of sensitivity.
Intraocular pressure in samples of elderly Finnish and Swedish men and women
Authors: Era Pertti , Pärssinen Olavi , Gause‐Nilsson Ingrid , Heikkinen Eino , Steen Bertil
Published: May 2009

Abstract Intraocular pressure was measured in 231 systematically sampled 75‐year‐old men and women in Göteborg, Sweden and in 284 75‐year‐old and 201 80‐year‐old residents in Jyväskylä, Finland as part of a comparative study on functional capacity and health, NORA 75 (Nordic Research on Ageing). After excluding the cases reporting glaucoma in their medical history or using drugs for glaucoma treatment there were no significant differences in the distributions of intraocular pressure between the men (mean intraocular pressure in the right eye 15.1 mmHg, left eye 15.0 mmHg) and women (mean intraocular pressure in the right eye 15.5 mmHg, left eye 15.8 mmHg) in Göteborg. In Jyväskylä the 75‐year‐old men had significantly lower intraocular pressure (right eye 13.4 mmHg, left eye 14.2 mmHg) than either the Jyväskylä women (right eye 15.1 mmHg, left eye 15.4 mmHg) or the men and women in Göteborg. Among the 80‐year‐olds in Jyväskylä there were no significant differences between the sexes (means for the right eye 14.0 mmHg and 13.7 mmHg and for the left eye 13.9 mmHg and 13.7 mmHg for the men and the women, respectively). The 80‐year‐old women had lower intraocular pressure than the 75‐year‐old women of either location. Ouclar hypertension (intraocular pressure 22 mmHg or higher) was more common among the Swedish 75‐year‐olds than among either the Finnish 75‐ or 80‐year‐olds. Intraocular pressure was positively correlated with blood pressure among the 75‐year‐old men in Jyväskylä and to some extent among the 75‐year‐old women in Göteborg and the 80‐year‐old women in Jyväskylä.
The refractive error after implantation of a posterior chamber intraocular lens
Authors: Høvding Gunnar , Natvik Christina , Sletteberg Odd
Published: May 2009

Abstract The study included 188 patients, in which a posterior chamber intraocular lens was implanted after extracapsular cataract extraction. After modifications of the intraocular lens constants (SRK formula and SRK II formula) and correction of the axial length measurements (Colenbrander‐Hoffer formula) had been made, the mean differences between the actual postoperative spherical equivalent and that predicted by the three formulas were –0.23D, –0.22D and –0.46D, respectively. More than ± 1.0 D deviation from the predicted postoperative refraction occurred in about one‐third of the cases. Inter‐observed discrepancy regarding the accuracy of the preoperative measurement of the ocular axis length is suggested to be the main cause of unpredicted postoperative refractive errors.
Extended-Spectrum Properties of CMY-30, a Val211Gly Mutant of CMY-2 Cephalosporinase
Authors: Kotsakis Stathis D. , Papagiannitsis Costas C. , Tzelepi Eva , Tzouvelekis Leonidas S. , Miriagou Vivi
Published: May 2009

CMY-30, a Val211Gly mutant of CMY-2 cephalosporinase, was derived by mutagenesis. The hydrolytic efficiency of CMY-30 against expanded-spectrum cephalosporins was higher than that of CMY-2 due to increased
k
cat
values. Findings indicate a role of the Ω loop residue 211 in determining the substrate specificities of CMYs also corroborated by modeling studies.
Retention of Metabolites of 2′,3′-Didehydro-3′-Deoxy-4′-Ethynylthymidine, a Novel Anti-Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Thymidine Analog, in Cells
Authors: Wang Xin , Tanaka Hiromichi , Baba Masanori , Cheng Yung-chi
Published: May 2009

2′,3′-Didehydro-3′-deoxy-4′-ethynylthymidine (4′-Ed4T), a novel thymidine analog, has more potent anti-human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) activity than its progenitor, stavudine (d4T). The profile of the intracellular metabolites of 4′-Ed4T was qualitatively similar to that of zidovudine (AZT) but not to that of d4T, while after drug removal it showed more persistent anti-HIV activity than AZT or d4T in cell culture. When CEM cells were exposed to various concentrations of 4′-Ed4T, 4′-Ed4T was efficiently taken up by the cells and was readily phosphorylated to 4′-Ed4T monophosphate (4′-Ed4TMP), 4′-Ed4T diphosphate (4′-Ed4TDP), and 4′-Ed4T triphosphate (4′-Ed4TTP). Most importantly, 4′-Ed4TTP, the active metabolite of 4′-Ed4T, persisted significantly longer than 4′-Ed4TDP and 4′-Ed4TMP after drug removal. We further investigated the efflux profiles of 4′-Ed4T in the comparison with those of AZT in CEM cells. After drug removal, both 4′-Ed4T and AZT were effluxed from the cells in a time- and temperature-dependent manner. However, the efflux of 4′-Ed4T from cells was much less efficient than that of AZT. 4′-Ed4T was effluxed from cells only in its nucleoside form, while AZT was effluxed from cells in both its nucleoside and monophosphate forms. The mechanism-of-action study showed that the efflux of 4′-Ed4T or AZT nucleoside might be due to unknown nucleoside transporters which were not related to the equilibrative nucleoside transporters, while the efflux of AZT monophosphate might be due to multidrug resistance protein 4 (MRP4/ABCC4). The results demonstrated that no detectable 4′-Ed4TMP efflux and the less efficient efflux of 4′-Ed4T nucleoside from cells might be one of the biochemical determinants of its persistent antiviral activity in cell culture.
Rapid and Reliable Detection of Antimicrobial Peptide Penetration into Gram-Negative Bacteria Based on Fluorescence Quenching
Authors: Benincasa Monica , Pacor Sabrina , Gennaro Renato , Scocchi Marco
Published: May 2009

In this paper, we describe a rapid flow cytometry method to identify antimicrobial peptides that are internalized into bacterial cells and differentiate them from those that are membrane active. The method was applied to fluorescently labeled Bac7
1-35
and polymyxin B, whose mechanisms of action are, respectively, based on cell penetration and on membrane binding and permeabilization. Identification of peptides with the former mechanism is of considerable interest for the intracellular delivery of membrane-impermeant drugs.
Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitansCytolethal Distending Toxin Induces Apoptosis in Nonproliferating Macrophages by a Phosphatase-Independent Mechanism
Authors: Rabin Shira D. P. , Flitton Jared G. , Demuth Donald R.
Published: May 2009

Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitansstrains that express cytolethal distending toxin (Cdt) are associated with localized aggressive periodontitis. However, the in vivo targets of Cdt in the human oral cavity have not been firmly established. Here, we demonstrate thatA. actinomycetemcomitansCdt kills proliferating and nonproliferating U937 monocytic cells at a comparable specific activity, approximately 1.5-fold lower than that against the Cdt-hypersensitive Jurkat T-cell line. Cdt functioned both as a DNase and a phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PIP3) phosphatase, and these activities were distinguished by site-specific mutagenesis of the active site residues of CdtB. Using these mutants, we determined that the DNase activity of CdtB is required for cell cycle arrest and caspase-dependent induction of apoptosis in proliferating U937 cells. In contrast, Cdt holotoxin induced apoptosis by a mechanism independent of caspase- and apoptosis-inducing factor in nonproliferating U937 cells. Furthermore, apoptosis of nonproliferating U937 cells was unaffected by the Cdt mutant possessing reduced phosphatase activity or by the addition of a specific PIP3phosphatase inhibitor, suggesting that the induction of apoptosis is independent of phosphatase activity. These results indicate that Cdt intoxication of proliferating and nonproliferating U937 cells occurs by distinct mechanisms and suggest that macrophages may also be potential in vivo targets of Cdt.
Screening of
Streptococcus pneumoniae
ABC Transporter Mutants Demonstrates that LivJHMGF, a Branched-Chain Amino Acid ABC Transporter, Is Necessary for Disease Pathogenesis
Authors: Basavanna Shilpa , Khandavilli Suneeta , Yuste Jose , Cohen Jonathan M. , Hosie Arthur H. F. , Webb Alexander J. , Thomas Gavin H. , Brown Jeremy S.
Published: May 2009

Bacterial ABC transporters are an important class of transmembrane transporters that have a wide variety of substrates and are important for the virulence of several bacterial pathogens, including
Streptococcus pneumoniae
. However, many
S. pneumoniae
ABC transporters have yet to be investigated for their role in virulence. Using insertional duplication mutagenesis mutants, we investigated the effects on virulence and in vitro growth of disruption of 9
S. pneumoniae
ABC transporters. Several were partially attenuated in virulence compared to the wild-type parental strain in mouse models of infection. For one ABC transporter, required for full virulence and termed LivJHMGF due to its similarity to branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) transporters, a deletion mutant (Δ
livHMGF
) was constructed to investigate its phenotype in more detail. When tested by competitive infection, the Δ
livHMGF
strain had reduced virulence in models of both pneumonia and septicemia but was fully virulent when tested using noncompetitive experiments. The Δ
livHMGF
strain had no detectable growth defect in defined or complete laboratory media. Recombinant LivJ, the substrate binding component of the LivJHMGF, was shown by both radioactive binding experiments and tryptophan fluorescence spectroscopy to specifically bind to leucine, isoleucine, and valine, confirming that the LivJHMGF substrates are BCAAs. These data demonstrate a previously unsuspected role for BCAA transport during infection for
S. pneumoniae
and provide more evidence that functioning ABC transporters are required for the full virulence of bacterial pathogens.
Renal toxicity of therapeutic drugs
Authors: John R , Herzenberg A M
Published: May 2009

A number of therapeutic agents can adversely affect the kidney, resulting in tubulointerstitial, glomerular or vascular disease. Drug-induced tubulointerstitial nephritis and acute tubular necrosis are common, and are often cause by antibiotics or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Drug-induced glomerular and vascular disease is relatively rare. This review describes the morphological patterns of drug-induced disease in the kidney. The histopathological changes are often similar to disease that is idiopathic or due to other causes, so that awareness and clinical correlation are most helpful to arrive at the aetiology.
5-HT2C-Like Receptors in the Brain of Xenopus laevis Initiate Sex-Typical Fictive Vocalizations
Authors: Yu H. J. , Yamaguchi A.
Published: May 2009

Vocalizations of male and female African clawed frogs ( Xenopus laevis) are generated by brain stem central pattern generators. Serotonin (5-HT) is likely important for vocal initiation because, when applied in vitro, sex-typical fictive vocalizations are evoked from isolated brains. To explore the mechanisms underlying vocal initiation, we identified the types of serotonin receptors mediating vocal activation pharmacologically using a whole brain, fictive preparation. The results showed that 5-HT2C–like receptors are important for activation of fictive vocalizations in the sexes. 5-HT2C receptor agonists elicited fictive vocalizations, and 5-HT2C receptor antagonists blocked 5-HT–induced fictive vocalizations, whereas agonists and antagonists of 5-HT2A and 5-HT2B receptors failed to initiate or block 5-HT–induced fictive vocalizations in the sexes. The results indicate that serotonin initiates fictive vocalizations by binding to 5-HT2C–like receptors located either within or upstream of the vocal central pattern generator in both sexes. We conclude that the basic mechanism of vocal initiation is shared by the sexes despite the differences in the actual vocalizations between males and females. Sex-typical vocalizations, therefore, most likely arise from activation of different populations of 5-HT2C receptor expressing cells or from differential activation of downstream pattern generating neurons.