bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of steady electric fields on human retinal pigment epithelial cell orientation and migration in culture
Authors: Sulik Gregory L. , Soong H. Kaz , Chang Patricia C. T. , Parkinson William C. , Elner Susan G. , Elner Victor M.
Published: May 2009

Abstract Low‐level, steady electric fields of 6–10 volts/cm stimulated directional orientation and translocation of cultured human retinal pigment epithelial cells. The orientative movements (galvanotropism) consisted of somatic elongation of the cells into spindle shapes, followed by pivotal alignment orthogonal to the field. The anodal edges of the cells underwent retraction of their plasmalemmal extensions, while the cathode edges and the longitudinal ends developed lamellipodia and ruffled membranes. These tropic movements were followed by a translocational movement (galvanotaxis) of the cells towards the cathode. Staining of these migrating cells for actin showed the accumulation of stress fibers at the leading (cathodal) edge, as well as at the longitudinal ends of the elongated somata. These results suggest that endogenous, biologically‐generated electric fields (eg., injury currents) may play a role in the guidance and migration of retinal pigment epithelial cells after retinal injury.
Compliance in antiamblyopia occlusion therapy
Authors: Nucci Paolo , Alfarano Rosetta , Piantanida Andrea , Brancato Rosario
Published: May 2009

Abstract Antiamblyopia occlusion therapy relies on compliance. We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 496 amblyopic subjects. Measures of non‐compliance included patient reporting and patient records of broken appointments. Out of 496 subjects, 92 (18%) failed to follow the occlusion regimen. Compliance with treatment was analyzed by age group, refractive error and type of strabismus. The failure rate was 82.6% for the unilateral high myopia group and 37.5% for the monofixation syndrome group. The risk for non‐compliance appeared to be higher in the 1 to 2‐year‐old group (37%). The x2‐test showed the differences to be highly significant (P<0.0001). Children having lower initial visual acuity were also significantly less compliant (P<0.007). Several factors such as age, parental understanding, initial visual acuity and improvement rate seem to be involved in compliance.
Excimer laser treatment of pterygium
Authors: Krag Susanne , Ehlers Niels
Published: May 2009

Abstract Primary experience with the use of eximer laser in pterygium therapy is presented. Twenty‐two pterygia (11 primary and 11 recurrent) were surgically removed using the bare‐sclera technique followed by excimer laser ablation to smoothen the corneal surface. As recurrence was observed in 20 eyes (91%) during the first year, supplementary excimer laser treatment of a pterygium does not seem to reduce the recurrence rate. The high recurrence rate in this series may to a certain extent reflect the surgical technique used (bare‐sclera).
Critical frequency of photic driving: Which part of the visual pathway do we examine?
Authors: Shpak Alexander A.
Published: May 2009

Abstract Studies on critical frequency of photic driving were performed on patients with optic atrophy, moderately expressed suprachiasmal lesions and normal subjects. A reduction was present only in optic atrophy patients. The critical frequency of photic driving showed significant correlations with visual acuity and differential light sensitivity of the areas located within 15° from the fixation point. The correlation proved higher for foveal sensitivity expressed in non‐logarithmic rather than in logarithmic units, the opposite being the case for the sensitivity of parafoveal areas. It may be concluded that critical frequency of photic driving is conditioned by the cortical projection zones and visual pathways corresponding to the central 15° of the visual field, but with predominant role of foveal projections.
Prevalence of retinitis pigmentosa and allied disorders in Denmark
Authors: Haim Marianne
Published: May 2009

Abstract A national epidemiological study revealed 1301 prevalent cases of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) in the Danish population on January 1, 1988. The corresponding number of 974 families were analyzed with respect to Mendelian inheritance groups. Thirty families, comprising 6.9% of the prevealent RP‐cases, were categorized with an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. In 187 families, 22.6% of RP‐cases, autosomal recessive heredity was encounterted. X‐linked heredity was found in 45 families, 10.8% of the RP‐cases. Simplex RP‐cases comprised 562 persons (43.2% of RP‐cases). About a fourth of the non‐systemic X‐linked cases were females. Half of these had an age at onset after 30 years, but a third had their first RP‐symptoms before age 18 years. A representative fraction of parents to non‐systemic autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, X‐linked, and simplex cases were evaluated concerning their age at the time they had their first affected child. Mothers of the male simplex cases were of statistically significant higher age than mothers of the other inheritance groups. This may imply a high rate of new mutations among simplex cases, especially on the X‐chromosome.
Results of pneumatic retinopexy with air
Authors: Algvere Peep V. , Gjötterberg Magnus , Olivestedt Göran , Fituri Suad
Published: May 2009

Abstract Although scleral buckling yields good results in retinal reattachment surgery, we search for less laborious methods which could give the same high cure rate. Fifty‐one consecutive patients with phakic, rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and breaks within 60° of the upper retinal quadrants were treated by retino‐cryopexy, drainage of subretinal fluid (under an operating microscope), and intravitreal injection of air (0.8 to 2.0 ml). Follow‐up examinations (after 6 to 12 months) disclosed retinal reattachment in 44 of 51 eyes (86%). Cases with macular detachment showed good visual recovery, and 15 of 23 eyes (65%) achieved 0.5 (20/40) or more in visual acuity. Postoperatively, new retinal breaks occurred in 6%, proliferative vitreoretinopathy in 2%, and macular pucker also in 2%. Pneumatic retinopexy with air is an easy procedure, it is associated with few complications, and enables rapid postoperative recovery.
Limbus‐based versus fornix‐based conjunctival flap in glaucoma filtering surgery
Authors: Brincker Peter , Kessing Vedel
Published: May 2009

Abstract Eighteen consecutive patients suffering from the same type of glaucoma in both eyes were treated with bilateral trabeculectomy. Surgery with both fornix‐based and limbus‐based flap was performed on each patient, one procedure in each eye. Pre‐ and postoperative intraocular pressure, morphology of the fistulation bleb, anterior chamber depth and need for additional treatment were recorded. Half a year after surgery, the fornix‐based flap procedure was superior (p>0.05) concerning high success rate, little additional therapy and good morphology of the bleb.
Visual dysfunction in type II diabetic patients revealed by a hyperacuity test
Authors: Watkins Russell , Buckingham Terry
Published: May 2009

Abstract Displacement thresholds for an oscillating bar, which fall into the hyperacuity range, were determined in 21 subjects with non‐insulin dependent diabetes mellitus and 19 age‐matched visually normal controls. The diabetic subjects were classed as either having minimal or no retinopathy. Whilst thresholds for the diabetic group were significantly raised above those of the normal group, there were no significant differences in thresholds between the diabetic subgroup with retinopathy and the subgroup without. Greater thresholds tended to be found at higher frequencies of oscillation as the known duration of the diabetes increased.
Association of reliability with reproducibility of the glaucomatous visual field
Authors: McMillan Tod A. , Stewart William C. , Hunt Hurshell H.
Published: May 2009

Abstract We studied 207 glaucoma patients (207 eyes) who had two successive visual tests on the Humphrey Field Analyzer to determine the association of unreliability (> 10% incidence of a missed catch trial test) with threshold variation. We found that in patients where one visual field showed > 30% false negative or positive errors, and the other visual field also was unreliable, a significant increase in the variance of the mean defect existed from reliable patients (p < 0.05). Of patients who had only one of two visual fields which was unreliable (from false negative errors), only those with marked glaucomatous visual field loss (< ‐15 dB depth of defect) showed a greater variance in mean defect between examinations over reliable patients (p < 0.05). In total, 41 patients (19.8%) had unreliable visual fields associated with statistically increased threshold variation. This study suggests that patient reliability should be considered when interpreting changes in threshold between automated visual field examinations.
Prevalence of retinitis pigmentosa and allied disorders in Denmark
Authors: Haim Marianne , Holm Niels V. , Rosenberg Thomas
Published: May 2009

Abstract. In a nation‐wide study we utilized all available sources to characterize the prevalence rates of retinitis pigmentosa. 1301 persons, 715 males and 586 females, were identified, with a diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa or some other tapetoretinal dystrophy, and living in Denmark per January 1, 1988. The corresponding completeness corrected prevalence rate of retinitis pigmentosa was 1:3026. All cases were classified as ‘certain’, ‘probable’, or ‘possible’. The age specific prevalence rates increased until 40–50 years, reaching a level of 35–40 male cases per 100 000 and 25–30 female cases per 100 000. Age specific prevalence rates were standardized to the WHO World Standard Population and compared to rates reported from Britain and The United States. World standardized prevalence rate for males was 25.29 per 100 000 and for females 19.31 per 100 000. The preponderance of males was highly statistically significant, (P< 0.01).
Quantitative assessment of aqueous flare and aqueous ‘cells’ in pseudoexfoliation syndrome
Authors: Küchle Michael , Nguyen Nhung X. , Horn Folkert , Naumann Gottfried O. H.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. We used the laser flare‐cell meter to measure aqueous flare and aqueous ‘cells’ in 38 eyes of 38 patients with pseudoexfoliation, in 36 normal control eyes of 36 subjects, and in 19 eyes of 19 patients with chronic open‐angle glaucoma unrelated to pseudoexfoliation. In pseudoexfoliation eyes, both aqueous flare (0.61 ± 0.55 mg/ml human albumin equivalent) and aqueous ‘cells’ (mean 10.70, range 0–50.6 cells/0.075 mm3) were significantly higher than in the normal control group (flare 0.15 ± 0.06 mg/ml, ‘cells’ 0.43, range 0–2, P< 0.0001) and in the glaucoma group without pseudoexfoliation (flare 0.19 ± 0.08 mg/ml, ‘cells’ 0.80, range 0–2.4, P< 0.0001 and P< 0.005). No significant difference could be found between the flare and cell counts of normal eyes and glaucoma eyes without pseudoexfoliation (P> 0.09, P> 0.05) and between PSX eyes with (18 eyes) and without (20 eyes) open‐angle glaucoma (P> 0.99, P> 0.4). Our findings indicate that the blood‐aqueous barrier is impaired in eyes with pseudoexfoliation, and that the laser flare‐cell meter may be a useful tool to quantify these changes. These alterations of the blood‐aqueous barrier need to be considered in medical therapy and intraocular surgery.
Side effects of topical treatment in pigmentary glaucoma
Authors: Lehto Ilkka
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A series of 35 patients with pigmentary glaucoma were asked to report possible side effects of topical glaucoma medication using a multiple‐choice questionnaire. Of the 31 patients (89%) returning the forms, 22 (71%) were men and 9 (29%) women with a mean age of 45.1 years, range 23 to 72 years. The mean follow‐up time of their glaucoma was 10.7 years, range 2 to 30 years. A mild burning feeling (in 50% in all treatment groups) and redness of the eyes (in 42% treated with timolol alone and in 50% with timolol combined with dipivephrine, pilo‐carpine or both) were the main complaints, followed by a slight reduction of vision (in 17% in the timolol group and in 56% with combined treatment) and mild watering of the eyes (in 42% of the timolol and in 31% of the combined treatment groups). Twenty‐three percent of the patients did not have any side effects from their topical medication. Patients who admitted defaulting their topical treatment once a month amounted to 43% and once a week to 17%. Patients who admitted to never having missed a drop amounted to 40% of the sample; forgetful‐ness and haste were the main reasons for not applying the drops.
Normal variations of the posterior corneal surface
Authors: Dunne Mark C. M. , Royston Jonathon M. , Barnes Derek A.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Measurements of the sphero‐cylindrical components of the rear corneal surface were taken from 80 healthy right eyes in order to determine normal variations. Dimensions of this surface were strongly influenced by the front corneal surface with the exception that the rear surface exhibited more toricity. Both surfaces tended to be flatter in males compared to females and in myopes compared to hyperopes. The corneal surfaces were also found to be flatter in younger eyes compared to older eyes, but this finding was most likely due to the preponderance of myopes in the young and hyperopes in the older group. The influence of the ratio of anterior: posterior corneal surface radius upon the estimation of total corneal power as required for intraocular lens inplant calculations was also considered.
Ptosis following periocular or general anaesthesia in cataract surgery
Authors: Ropo A. , Ruusuvaara P. , Nikki P.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The incidence and duration of postoperative ptosis was investigated in 64 patients undergoing cataract surgery. Thirty‐two patients had a 2‐point periocular regional anaesthesia while 32 others were given general anaesthesia. The palpebral aperture and the levator muscle function were measured preoperatively and then on the 1st, 2nd, 4th and 7th postoperative days or as long as ptosis persisted. On the 1st postoperative day, about half of the patients in both groups demonstrated ptosis. On the 2nd day, ptosis was more common in the general anaesthesia group. The ptosis persisted 1 week postoper‐atively in 2 patients, both belonging to the general anaesthesia group. It is concluded that postoperative ptosis is common both after local and general anaesthesia. In most cases it is shortlasting and may be related to the volume or myotoxicity of a local anaesthetic drug. The use of a superior rectus muscle bridle suture and/or lid speculum may be important in provoking ptosis of longer duration.
The IOP‐IOL
Authors: Svedbergh Björn , Bäcklund Ylva , Hök Bertil , Rosengren Lars
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The intraocular lens (IOL) implant can be looked upon as a probe into the space of the eye. Adapting that view, it is logical to furnish the IOL‐probe with biomedical sensors that would explore its environment. A sensor is presented for continuous monitoring of intraocular pressure (IOP), incorporated in the haptics of an IOL. The sensor consists of a capacitative spiral circuit, needing no energy, correlating its resonance frequency to the actual IOP. This resonance frequency is remotely and non‐invasively detected by an external device located in a spectacle frame.
Pollution keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Norn M.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. In ‘sick building syndrome’ and other questionable environmental conditions, it is important to consider eye troubles. This review deals with several objective methods relevant for pollution keratoconjunctivitis. A hypothesis is put forward: A reduced lipid layer of the tear film causes reduced break‐up time, increased vital staining and increased number of cells in the con‐junctival fluid.
The effect of varying wavelength on subconjunctival scleral laser suture lysis in rabbits
Authors: McMillan Tod A. , Stewart William C. , Nutaitis Matthew J. , Powers Timothy P. , Apple David J.
Published: May 2009

Abstract We studied laser suture lysis of subconjunctival scleral sutures in a rabbit eye using selected wavelengths from a dye and diode laser to determine which wavelength caused the least conjunctival damage. We found an oval shaped area of coagulation necrosis surrounding the suture track in the conjunctival substantia propria measuring in depth 61.0 μ for 488 + 514 nm (blue‐green), 105.7 μ for 514 nm (green), 148.3 μ for 630 nm (red), and 29.0 μ with 780 + 830 nm (infrared) wavelengths. No observable damage was noted with 585 nm (yellow) or 610 nm (orange) wavelengths. The energy intensity required for suture lysis was similar across each wavelength studied. No damage was observed in the sclera or conjunctival epithelium. These findings suggest that using the yellow or orange wavelength, when performing laser suture lysis clinically, potentially may limit conjunctival damage.
Intracellular pH regulation by a Na+/H+ exchanger in cultured bovine trabecular cells
Authors: Chu Teh‐Ching , Keith Charles , Green Keith
Published: May 2009

Abstract Intracellular pH (pHi) of cultured bovine trabecular cells was measured using video‐imaging techniques with a pH‐sensitive intracellular fluorescent dye, BCECF. In bicarbonate‐rich Ringer at pH 7.4, pHi was 7.29 ± 0.03 (± SEM, n = 12 monolayers, 120 cells sampled). Exposure to 20 mM NH4Cl immediately alkalinized pHi: replacement with a Na+‐rich solution acidified pHi before recovery to resting levels. When NH4Cl was replaced by a low Na+ solution, acidification was sustained but pHi recovery occurred after Na+‐rich solution. A pHi of 7.11 ± 0.02 (n = 2 monolayers, 20 cells) occurred in pH 6.8 and pHi was 7.72 ±0.03 (n = 2 monolayers, 20 cells) in pH 8.0. Amiloride (1 mM) acidified pHi but DIDS (1 mM) treatment, HCO3−‐free condition, 1 mM ouabain, 50 mM K+, and 2 mM BaCl2 failed to change pHi. Hydrogen peroxide (1 mM) acidified pHi but no change occurred with 50 μM. Trabecular cells possess an Na+/H+ exchanger similar to that in other cell types.
Fibrillopathy in a pseudophakic eye
Authors: Sveinsson Örn
Published: May 2009

Abstract The ultrastructure of the lens capsule remnants in an eye with known fibrillopathy (pseudoexfoliation/exfoliation syndrome) subjected to an extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) and lens implantation 11 months earlier was examined. Lens epithelial changes typical in lenses with fibrillopathy were observed. The well‐known fibrils radiated from pits in the lens epithelial cells, forming a deep layer in the lens capsule and the Busacca bushes on the capsule surface. It thus appears that the production of fibrillar material from lens epithelium may continue after ECCE and implantation of an intraocular lens. A possible connection between intracellular and extracellular fibrils was noticed.
Role of trace elements in senile cataract
Authors: Srivastava V. K. , Varshney N. , Pandey D. C.
Published: May 2009

Abstract The contents of copper, zinc and protein were determined in cortex and nucleus sections of cortical and nuclear cataracts. The results show that copper and zinc content increased in both types of cataracts, although more in the cortex than nucleus sections of the cataractous lenses.
Long‐term post trabeculectomy intraocular pressures
Authors: Akafo Stephen K. , Goulstine David B. , Rosenthal A. Ralph
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Eighty‐one eyes which had had trabeculectomy with a mean follow‐up period of 9.2 years (range 7 to 10 years) were studied retrospectively for their subsequent pattern of intraocular pressure. Of 43 chronic open‐angle glaucoma eyes, 29 (67%) had their pressures maintained below 21 mmHg by trabeculectomy alone over a 7–10‐year period. On the other hand, 25 of 38 (65%) eyes with other types of glaucoma required an average of 1.5 different antiglaucoma medications post‐op for the control of their intraocular pressures. Fifteen of 69 (22%) phakic eyes required cataract extraction at a mean of 5.1 years post‐op. Two of 43 (5%) chronic open‐angle glaucoma eyes suffered blinding complications attributable to the procedure. Seventeen percent: of eyes gained visual field at a mean of 7% of the pre‐op field per year following trabeculectomy. Fifty percent lost field at a mean rate of 2.3% per year.
Acceptability of aphakic correction
Authors: Hogeweg Margreet , Sapkota Y. D. , Foster Allen
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Of 235 aphakic patients followed for 1–10 years in Karnali, Nepal, 23% were wearing aphakic spectacles in good condition, 25% had lost or broken their spectacles, 31% were wearing scratched or repaired spectacles, 5% never received spectacles and 16% were dissatisfied, of which 84% still had good phakic vision in the fellow eye. Of 303 aphakic eyes, 89% had a visual acuity of 6/60 or better with +10 spherical correction and 7.3% (22 eyes) were blind (V/A less than 3/60); of which the major causes were pre‐existing posterior segment disease unrelated to the cataract operation.
Secondary implantation of flexible open loop anterior chamber IOLs
Authors: Drolsum Liv , Haaskjold Erling
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Secondary implantation of flexible, open loop anterior chamber IOLs was performed on 20 aphakic eyes between January 1990 and May 1992. In 3 cases anterior vitrectomy was necessary. No other complications were encountered during surgery. The patients were followed up for 4 months postoperatively. Seventeen eyes achieved a corrected visual acuity of 5/5 or better. Fourteen eyes achieved the same visual acuity as preoperatively, and 5 ended with an improved visual outcome. In one case the visual acuity became worse than preoperatively due to cystoid macular edema. No other serious postoperative complications occurred. The postoperative refraction was within 1 diopter of emmetropia in 16 eyes compared to the estimated (biometry) 19 eyes. We conclude that implantation of flexible open loop anterior chamber IOLs is a safe procedure in properly selected cases.
Differential diagnosis between granular corneal dystrophy Groenouw type I and paraproteinemic crystalline keratopathy
Authors: Møller H. U. , Ehlers N. , Bojsen‐Møller M. , E. A. Ridgway Alan
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A case of corneal opacities in a leukemic patient with an M‐component in the serum proteins is presented, and a comparison is made to patients with granular corneal dystrophy Groenouw type I. The corneal deposits associated with the two conditions may appear identical with slit‐lamp biomicroscopy. Granular dystrophy patients, however, show a normal serum immunoglobulin pattern in contrast to patients with paraproteinemic crystalline keratopathy. The two entities can therefore be distinguished from each other by a serum electrophoresis.
Healon® GV in posterior segment surgery
Authors: Crafoord Sven , Stenkula Staffan
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Healon®, a viscoelastic preparation of Sodium hyaluronate, has been reported effective in posterior segment surgery for dissection of epiretinal membranes, i.e. proliferative diabetic retinopathy and macular pucker. A more viscous substance might be more effective for this kind of surgery. Therefore, a new Sodium hyaluronate preparation Healon® GV with a ten times greater viscosity at rest than Healon®, was tested in and open clinical study. Twenty‐four patients of both sexes and not younger than 18 years were enrolled. The follow‐up time was three months. The main indications for using Healon® GV were: to separate membranes from the retina, to stop bleeding and to reposition a detached retina. 0.2–0.5 ml of Healon® GV was injected through a 27 gauge bent cannula and at close of surgery irrigated out of the eye. Postoperatively the patients were monitored concerning intraocular pressure, vitreous clarity, anterior chamber flare and visual acuity. Healon® GV was found to make the surgical procedure simpler and safer. No inflammatory reaction and no increase of IOP was observed.
Multiple melanocytic tumours in a case of ocular melanocytosis
Authors: Seregard Stefan , Ladenvall Gunnar , Kock Erik
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A case of ocular melanocytosis with the simultaneous occurrence of a choroidal malignant melanoma, a ciliary body melanocytoma and a surface plaque iris naevus in an 80‐year‐old male Caucasian is reported. Patients with ocular or oculodermal melanocytosis are considered to be at risk for tumour formation and malignant transformation; the multiple melanocytic tumours of the present case support this hypothesis.—
Visual evoked potentials and optic nerve histopathology in normal and diabetic rats and effect of ginkgo biloba extract
Authors: Apaydin Cemil , Oǧuz Yurttaş , Aǧar Aysel , Yargiçoǧlu Piraye , Demir Necdet , Aksu Güler
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The purpose of this study was to test the possible therapeutic role of ginkgo biloba extract on the impairment of visual function and pathological histology of the optic nerve caused by early diabetes. Ginkgo biloba extract entraps oxygenated free radicals and is also a strong inhibitor of the platelet activation factor (PAF). For this purpose, VEP recordings and optic nerve histopathology were studied on alloxan diabetic and normal Swiss albino rats in four experimental groups. The VEP recordings showed no statistical significance between diabetic and normal rats. However, the amplitudes were significantly increased in diabetic animals with ginkgo biloba extract compared with the diabetics, supposing an impression of axonal protection. But the amplitude values were decreased in normal rats treated with the same extract compared with normal animals, assuming a toxic activity. Optic nerve ultrastructural findings also confirmed these VEP changes. It was concluded that this extract could be encouraging for human clinical trials of diabetes.
Structure of the vitreoretinal border region in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR rats)
Authors: Heegaard S.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The morphology of the vitreoretinal border region, also termed the inner limiting membrane, was studied in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR rats), in Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY rats), and in Buffalo rats (BUF rats). The region was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) in order to visualize a possible increase in thickness with raised arterial pressure. The median thickness of the lamina densa in TEM in the three groups varied from 34 to 68 nm. In hypertensive SHR rats the lamina densa showed thickening up to the 10th month and was unchanged thereafter. The same pattern was shown in WKY rats, although the thickness increased also after the tenth month in these controls. In BUF rats, however, the lamina densa decreased in thickness with age. The median thickness of the whole vitreoretinal border region varied between: SHR rats: 42 and 84 nm (SEM) and 51 and 127 nm (TEM); WKY rats: 84 nm (SEM) and 51 and 68 nm (TEM); BUF rats: 42 nm (SEM) and 34 and 68 nm (TEM). SHR rats showed in SEM an increase in thickness with age. In TEM, however, only one very old hypertensive rat had a thickened vitreoretinal border region. In WKY rats both SEM and TEM showed an increase in thickness with age, whereas BUF rats showed a decrease. Fundus photographs disclosed narrow, straight and irregular retinal arterioles in hypertensive SHR rats. Light microscopy of older SHR rats demonstrated retinal degeneration from the outer photoreceptor layer to the inner nuclear layer. This was also found in some of the older WKY rats.
ß1‐ and ß2‐antagonist activity of topically applied betaxolol and timolol in the systemic circulation
Authors: Vuori Marja‐Liisa , Ali‐Melkkilä Timo , Kaila Timo , Lisalo Esko , Saari K. Matti
Published: May 2009

Abstract.The ß1‐ and ß2‐antagonist activity of betaxolol and timolol in the systemic circulation was studied ex‐vivo after their ocular administration in thirty patients during cataract surgery. The patients received 40 μl of 0.5% betaxolol or 0.25% timolol into the lower cul‐de‐sacs of both eyes. Blood samples were collected up to four h after instillation of the doses. Plasma concentrations of betaxolol and timolol were analyzed using a radioreceptor assay. The ex‐vivo‐ß1‐and ß2‐receptor occupancies corresponding drug plasma levels were calculated using radioligand binding techniques. The extent of ß1‐receptor occupancy of betaxolol in the systemic circulation was less than 20% and its ß2‐receptor occupancy was negligible. The extent of ß1‐receptor occupancy of timolol was about 65% and its ß2‐receptor occupancy about 80%. Because receptor occupancy is the basis of antagonist activity of ß‐blocking agents, this study shows that the ß1‐antagonist activity of betaxolol in the systemic circulation is much less than that of timolol, and that its ß2‐antagonist activity is negligible. The study suggests that the reported side effects of betaxolol in patients with obstructive pulmonary diseases are not mediated via its ß2‐receptor blocking properties.
The effect of dacryocystorhinostomy on tear film flow and stability in patients with chronic dacryocystitis
Authors: Zengin Nazmi
Published: May 2009

Abstract. In 30 patients suffering from chronic dacryocystitis, tear film flow and stability were assessed by means of Schirmer I and break‐up time tests before and after dacryocystorhinostomy. When compared with those of healthy individuals, mean values of Schirmer I tests were found to be decreased before dacryocystorhinostomy, but reached normal levels after a successful operation. Break‐up time levels were found to be within normal limits before and after surgery and no statistically significant difference was observed between patients and control group. These findings not only confirm the previous findings, that tear secretion in patients with chronic dacryocystitis was reduced and break‐up time was not affected, but also indicate that the reduction of tear secretion can be eliminated by a successful dacryocystorhinostomy.
The postnatal development of the oscillatory potentials of the electroretinogram. V. Relation to the double peaked a‐wave
Authors: el Azazi M. , Wachtmeister L.
Published: May 2009

Abstract The postnatal development of the double peaked a‐wave and its relation to the oscillatory potentials of the rat electroretinogram was studied. The split a‐wave appeared one day later than the first oscillatory activity. The appearance and maturation of the positivity between the two a‐waves (a‐hump) was found to be similar to that of the first oscillatory potential, and the development of the second a‐wave showed similarities to that of the second oscillatory potential. Thus, we conclude that the double peaked a‐wave is closely related to the appearance of the two first oscillatory potentials. Secondly, the division of the a‐wave in the immature animal may be caused by the intrusion of the first oscillatory potential. Thirdly, the presence of a split a‐wave before spontaneous opening of the lid seems to indicate a state of comparatively progressed maturity of neuronal adaptation.
The proliferative response during regeneration of a ringshaped defect in the corneal epithelium
Authors: Sandvig Kjell U. , Haaskjold Erling
Published: May 2009

Abstract The aim of the present study was to investigate the regenerative ability of the central corneal epithelium in an in vivo situation, as previous studies have been contradictory regarding the proliferative potential of these cells. Paracentral ringshaped defects were made in rat corneal epithelium, using filter paper soaked in n‐heptanol. Cell counts, labelling indices and mitotic rates were measured in sections from the corneal and the adjacent conjunctival epithelium 12 and 28 h after the injury. The cell counts indicated that also central corneal epithelial cells migrate in the early phase of wound healing. No proliferative response was seen in the central corneal epithelium after 12 h. At 28 h both the peripheral and central corneal cells showed an enhanced labelling index, while the mitotic rate only was increased in the periphery. Different cell cycle times and different levels of differentiation of the cell population across the cornea may explain the delayed proliferative response in the central cornea.
Break‐up time and lissamine green epithelial damage in «office eye syndrome»
Authors: Franck Carsten , Boge Inger
Published: May 2009

Abstract Break‐up time and lissamine green epithelial damage were re‐investigated among 90 office workers after six months in 60 and after one year in 73. There was fairly good correlation with a rank correlation of about 0.40 between both break‐up time and lissamine green staining epithelial damage at the initial investigation and at the two re‐investigations. All correlations were found highly statistically significant. The results indicate that the manifestation of dry eyes in office workers to a great extent is chronic and without seasonal variation, at least as long as the subject remains in the office environment.
The ultrastructure of Elschnig's pearls in a pseudophakic eye
Authors: Sveinsson Örn
Published: May 2009

Abstract The giant cells forming the Elschnig pearl mass after extracapsular cataract extraction are derived from lens epithelium. They are interconnected by gapjunction and desmosome‐like structures. They stain homogenously and show few organelles. Active autolysis was demonstrated in some regions. The ultrastructural features of the giant cells in this type of secondary cataract share many of the characteristics of fiber cells. Because of profound changes in the environment postoperatively, these cells have developed other shapes and characteristics than normal lens fiber cells.
Three‐dimensional evaluation of optic disc pallor in open angle glaucoma
Authors: Sagaties Mary Jo , Schwartz Bernard
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT We evaluated the extent of pallor on the walls of the optic cup three‐dimensionally using simultaneous stereophotographs of the optic discs of 29 normals, 29 ocular hypertensives and 28 primary open angle glaucomas Pallor was located at the bottom of the optic cup Pallor ascȩnds the walls of the cup as its extent increases Statistically significant differences in the extent of pallor in all four quadrants of the optic cup were observed, with the glaucomas having greater extents of pallor than ocular hypertensives, and the ocular hypertensives greater than the normals The greatest percentage increase in mean pallor from normals to open angle glaucomas occurred on the nasal and inferior walls This differential extent of pallor could be useful in characterizing ocular hypertension and chronic open angle glaucoma
Histochemical identification of hyaluronan in the rabbit anterior segment during the healing period after extracapsular lens extraction
Authors: Molander N , Ehinger B , Rolfsen W , Härfstrand A , Stenevi U
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Extracapsular lens extractions were performed in rabbits The eyes were examined at different time intervals after surgery with a histochemical method visualizing hyaluronan There was positive staining for hyaluronan in the wound region from 2 to 90 days postoperatively The staining was most intense and widespread between 7 and 14 days after surgery A hyaluronan staining in the corneal stroma extended from the wound towards the central cornea 4 to 14 days postoperatively The iris showed increased staining on the second postoperative day, but much less so at the other times studied Cells on the posterior lens capsule were surrounded by hyaluronan from the seventh postoperative day throughout the observation time up to 90 days postoperatively It is concluded that hyaluronan reacts during corneal wound healing
Ocular fatigue is the major symptom of dry eye
Authors: Toda Ikuko , Fujishima Hiroshi , Tsubota Kazuo
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT A total of 524 consecutive new patients (195 male, 329 female, 434±208 yo) were evaluated for the presence of ocular fatigue and/or dry eye Dry eye was diagnosed based on our criteria, which included symptoms, vital staining, break‐up time (BUT) measurement, and the Schirmer test Among all the patients, 212% (111/524) reported symptoms of ocular fatigue and 153% (80/524) were diagnosed as having dry eye with symptoms Of the 111 patients who complained of ocular fatigue, 514% (57/111) had dry eye, which was significantly higher than the 153% for the entire group (p<0001) Additionally, 713% (57/80) of dry eye patients with symptoms complained of ocular fatigue, which was also significantly higher than the 212% among all patients (p<0001) Dry eye patients had a greater number of complaints (43±21 per patient) compared to controls (19±13 per patient) (p<0001) These findings suggest that there is a strong relation between ocular fatigue and dry eye
Natural course in fellow eyes of patients with unilateral age‐related exudative maculopathy
Authors: Baun Ole , Vinding Troels , Krogh Erik
Published: May 2009

Abstract A prospective fluorescein angiographic study of 45 patients with unilateral age‐related exudative maculopathy revealed at the 4‐year follow‐up that 14 (31%) had developed neovascular membranes in the fellow eyes. Age, drusen size and confluence, as well as pigmentary changes of these 14 were compared with the corresponding characteristics of the 31 eyes that remained non‐exudative (atrophic). No significant differences were found. Among the 14 eyes that developed exudative maculopathy, visual acuity (Snellen) deteriorated 3–4 steps in 6 eyes (43%), 5–6 steps in 4 eyes (28.5%), and 7–8 steps or more in 4 eyes (28.5%). Among the 31 eyes that remained non‐exudative, visual acuity was unchanged in 20 eyes (64%), deteriorated 1–2 steps in 7 eyes (23%), 3–4 steps in 3 eyes (10%), and 5–6 steps in 1 eye (3%). Social blindness (6/60 or less in the better eye) was found among 79% of the patients who had developed exudative maculopathy, whereas the figure was 19% among patients who still had atrophic macular degeneration.
Unintentional intraocular injection of corticosteroids
Authors: Gomez‐Ulla Francisco , Gonzalez Francisco , Ruiz‐Fraga Consuelo
Published: May 2009

Abstract In this report we present a patient on whom a sub‐Tenon injection of steroids was performed, with the intention of treating an active chorio‐retinitis threatening the macula. The globe was inadvertently penetrated and part of the steroid solution released into the vitreous cavity. Conservative treatment was decided upon and a spontaneous complete resolution of the complication was observed after a period of 24 days.
Primary angle closure glaucoma and retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Badeeb Osama , Trope Graham , Musarella Maria
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The prevalence of primary open angle glaucoma in patients with retinitis pigmentosa ranges from 2–12%. To the best of our knowledge the prevalence of primary angle closure glaucoma in retinitis pigmentosa patients has not been reported. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of primary angle closure glaucoma in patients with retinitis pigmentosa and the relationship between the two. We reviewed 538 retinitis pigmentosa patients' charts seen between 1974–1987, in the Ocular Genetic Clinic in the Hospital of Sick Children, Toronto, Canada. The prevalence of primary angle closure glaucoma in our retinitis pigmentosa patients over 40 was 1.03%. We also reviewed three patients with primary angle closure glaucoma and retinitis pigmentosa. One patient had typical bilateral retinitis pigmentosa, one patient had bilateral sector retinitis pigmentosa, and one patient had unilateral retinitis pigmentosa and primary angle closure glaucoma in the same eye. Our data indicate that there is a strong association between retinitis pigmentosa and primary angle closure glaucoma.
Morphology of iris vasculopathy in exfoliation glaucoma
Authors: Konstas A. G. P. , Marshall G. E. , Cameron S. A. , Lee W. R.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Iris tissue obtained from 26 consecutive patients operated upon for exfoliation glaucoma and control iris tissue from 26 age‐matched subjects operated upon for primary open angle glaucoma was used to investigate the iris vasculopathy associated with exfoliation glaucoma. By light microscopy exfoliation material was discerned by increased density of the perivascular matrix in affected vessels. By transmission electron microscopy exfoliation vasculopathy was divided into 4 grades. Grade I was characterized by focal accumulation of exfoliation material without evidence of cellular degeneration. In grade II, exfoliation material accumulation was accompanied by degeneration of vascular supporting cells; endothelial cells were unaffected. In grade III, endothelial cells exhibited degenerative changes and in grade IV, exfoliation material occupied an acellular vascular wall (ghost vessel). It is suggested that in iris vessels the synthesis of exfoliation material can be attributed primarily to the vascular supporting cells.
Acute effect of topical carteolol on ocular pulsatile volume change
Authors: Yamazaki Sei , Baba Hiroyuki
Published: May 2009

Abstract.To determine whether topical carteolol affects ocular blood flow, we studied effects of carteolol 2% on the ocular pulse waves in 9 normal volunteers, and analyzed the results as variations in pulsatile volume changes (PVC) for one minute (PVCm) using the Friedenwald's pressure‐volume relationship. PVC means a volume for the pressure amplitude in each pulse. The pulse waves were recorded with a pneumatonometer and analyzed by a computer. The PVCm change 15 min after the carteolol instillation was evaluated with the control performed with biological salt solution in the same manner. The data showed a net increase in the PVCm of the carteolol‐instilled eyes (21.3 + 6.4 μl/min: mean + standard error, p < 0.05, pairedt‐test). Considering a finding that PVCm takes 50% of the total ocular blood flow, the results suggest a possible alteration in the total flow by a carteolol instillation.
Results and complications after extracapsular cataract extraction in eyes with pseudoexfoliation syndrome
Authors: Drolsum Liv , Haaskjold Erling , Davanger Martin
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Postoperative results and complications in 136 eyes with pseudoexfoliation syndrome were compared to 744 eyes without pseudoexfoliation syndrome in a consecutive study. The patients were followed for 4 months postoperatively. Excluding cases with glaucoma, 81.4% of the pseudoexfoliation eyes and 83.0% of the eyes without pseudoexfoliation achieved a corrected visual acuity of 5/8.5 or better. IOL malposition was rare in both groups (1.5% in the pseudoexfoliation group and 1.6% in the group without pseudoexfoliation). IOP elevation the first day postoperatively occurred most often in the pseudoexfoliation eyes. In the pseudoexfoliation eyes, postoperative iritis and cellular precipitates were demonstrated in 16.2% and 11.0%, respectively, compared to 3.8% and 3.2% in the eyes without pseudoexfoliation (p < 0.001). The frequency of an inflammatory reaction was highly correlated to small pupil size during operation in both groups.
Development of cataract after trabeculectomy
Authors: Vesti Eija
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Cataract progression after trabeculectomy was investigated in a study of 47 eyes with exfoliative glaucoma (ExG) and in 20 eyes with primary open‐angle glaucoma (POAG). Cataract progression was assessed from the need for cataract extraction, deterioration of visual acuity by ≥ 2 Snellen lines, myopic change in the refraction and increase in the lens opacity value, measured with a Lens Opacity Meter 701. Measurements were made 6 and 12 months after trabeculectomy and at the follow‐up visit at 26 + 11 months. ExG, age, hypotony (IOP ≤ 5 mm Hg) lasting ≥ 5 days and early postoperative IOP rise ≥ 30 mm Hg were observed to be risk factors for cataract progression. In pairwise analysis of 14 patients, in which the unoperated eye served as the control, a myopic change of refraction was the most frequent indicator for a change in the structures of anterior segment, possibly indicating cataract progression.
Measurement of visual readaptation time after flash exposure using optokinetic nystagmus
Authors: Wang Ling , Söderberg Per G. , Tengroth Björn
Published: May 2009

Abstract. It is concluded that measurement of visual readaptation time (RAT) using optokinetic nystagmus (OKN) is a repeatable measure of visual recovery after flash exposure. The semi‐automatic method for measurement of RAT used here requires further development, but it is anticipated that the improved method will provide an efficient tool for increased understanding of the physiology of flash blindness. In this study on humans, it was found that if RAT is recorded twice on the same occasion, the second RAT is shorter. However, there was no systematic difference between RAT recordings on consecutive occasions. The newly developed semi‐automatic method was found to provide RATs comparable to those obtained by manual measurement on a paper print out of EOG recordings. In RAT estimation, the variability between subjects shadows other sources of random variability. The least number of subjects needed in each group to detect a 20% alteration of RAT due to an experimental factor (α=0.05, β=0.05) was estimated to 13 with independent groups design. For paired design < 10 are needed. OKN was elicited with a horizontally moving vertical grating. The eye movement was recorded by DC EOG. A sudden flash of green light temporarily abolished the OKN. The interval between the flash and the reappearance of OKN was measured as the RAT.
Wegener's granulomatosis with rapidly progressive retinitis and anterior uveitis
Authors: Tanihara Hidenobu , Nakayama Yoshihito , Honda Yoshihito
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A case of a Wegener's granulomatosis with severe retinitis and anterior uveitis is presented. The diagnosis of Wegener's granulomatosis was based on the clinical features and on histologic findings of multiple lesions. Anterior uveitis and severe retinitis developed in both eyes, resulting in decreased visual acuity. This case indicates that thorough examinations of the ocular fundus should be performed routinely during the follow‐up of patients with Wegener's granulomatosis.
Acute frosted retinal periphlebitis
Authors: Atmaca Leyla S. , Gündüz Kaan
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A 30‐year‐old woman developed bilateral acute vision loss without any systemic symptoms. There was diffuse retinal edema and thick perivenous sheathing with moderate vitreous inflammation. Fluorescein angiography showed late staining and dye leakage from diseased vessels. Oral corticosteroid treatment stabilized the visual acuity and fundus of the left eye but did not halt the progression to total fibrosis in the right eye.
Variations in corneal sensitivity with hydrogel contact lenses
Authors: Velasco Maria Josefa , Bermúdez F. Javier , Romero Javier , Hita Enrique
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Changes in corneal sensitivity were studied in two groups of healthy subjects who wore hydrogel contact lenses: 44 persons whose lenses contained 38% water, and 23 who wore lenses of 55% water content. Corneal sensitivity decreased in both groups during the first 8 h following insertion; the decrease was more marked in the group who wore 38% water lenses. Changes in corneal tactile sensitivity were greater in women than in men, and determinations in different corneal zones showed that the central zone was less affected in sensitivity than any of the peripheral zones. After lenses were removed, tactile sensitivity showed full recovery within 4 h.