bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LYSOZYME CONCENTRATION IN TEARS‐ASSESSMENT OF REFERENCE VALUES IN NORMAL SUBJECTS
Authors: AINE ESKO , MÖRSKY PERTTI
Published: May 2009

The lysozyme content of tears in 126 healthy persons (249 samples) was studied by an initial rate immunoturbidimetric method. The lysozyme values kept a logarithmic distribution with logarithmic mean 1568 mg/l and median 1530 mg/l. The arithmetic mean with standard deviation was 1678 ± 633 mg/l. Lower lysozyme concentrations were observed in elderly people and children than in adults, but the concentration distributions in different age groups overlapped considerably. Statistically, the difference between the age groups ≥ 60 years and over 60 years was almost significant (P = 0.012). No significant differences occurred between the sexes. Values within ± 2 sn from the logarithmic mean were included in the reference material. For 10–60‐year‐old persons, the reference range is 750–3300 mg/l and over 60 years old 650–2900 mg/l.
PIGMENTATION OF PLICA AND LACRYMAL CARUNCLE
Authors: NORN MOGENS
Published: May 2009

Consecutive screenings by the same examiner (the author) disclosed among 380 white North Europeans (Copenhagen, Denmark) pigmentation of the plica sernihmaris and/or lacrymal caruncle in 2%, among 189 Mongols (Kyoto, Japan) in 4%, and among 257 Eskimos (East Greenland) in 45% (P < 0.001). In Eskimos the phenomenon was found to be bilateral in 60% and confluent with pigmentation of the bulbar conjunctiva in 18%. The prevalence is the highest among males, rising with increasing age. It is correlated to the prevalence of pigmentation of the bulbar conjunctiva, whereas not to that of subconjunctival pigmentation round scleral emissaries.
INFRARED RADIATION AND CATARACT II. EPIDEMIOLOGIC INVESTIGATION OF GLASS WORKERS
Authors: LYDAHL AVA , PHILIPSON BO
Published: May 2009

An epidemiologic investigation on the prevalence of cataract in glass workers is presented. The study includes 209 workers over 50 years of age exposed to infrared (IR) radiation in the Swedish manual glass industry for 20 years or more, and 298 non‐IR‐exposed controls. The examination includes an evaluation of the individual IR‐exposure and an ophthalmological examination with special reference to the lens. In IR‐cxposed workers 70 years of age and older there is a statistically significant increase of aphakia and of all types of cataract, subcapsular, cuneiform and nuclear, compared to the controls of the same age group. In the same age group the risk for an IR‐exposcd worker to have his vision reduced by cataract to 0.7 or less is 2.5 times as high as for non‐exposed controls (95% confidence interval 1.4‐4.4). The risk that he will have to be operated for cataract is 12 times as high (95% confidence interval 2.6 − 53). It is concluded, that the occupational IR‐exposure of the glass workers accelerates the development of senile changes in the lens. All workers with a high exposure to IR radiation should be equipped with adequate eye proctection.
VISUALLY EVOKED POTENTIAL (VEP) ACUITY: TESTABILITY IN A CLINICAL PEDIATRIC POPULATION
Authors: ODOM J. VERNON , GREEN MARC
Published: May 2009

The visually evoked potential (VEP) elicited by pattern response is used to assess the visual acuity of preverbal infants in research situations, but few reports indicate the percentage of patients successfully completing the tests (testability). Data are presented to illustrate the testability of acuity assessed by VEPs with clinical populations of preverbal and neurologically handicapped children. 166 referrals in a 9‐month period to an electrodiagnostic clinic indicated that 75% of the referrals less than 3 years old, and 87% of the neurologically handicapped referrals were testable. The testability of VEP acuity is as great or greater than other procedures for examining the visual functions of non‐verbal or unco‐operative patients.
LATE KERATOPATHY DUE TO INTRAOCULAR SAND PARTICLES A case history with misleading tests for allergy
Authors: FLEDELIUS HANS C. , LÖCHTE JENS J.
Published: May 2009

After nine years, a boy was cured for his presumed allergic eye disease by microsurgical removal of intraocular sand particles, left in the anterior chamber after a childhood trauma. Sand being considered inert, together with seasonal variation in symptoms and misleading positive tests for allergy were to explain the doctor's delay. Involutive keratopathy eventually developed, with vessel ingrowth, severe photophobia and lacrimation, low intraocular pressure, and a visual acuity of only 1/60. Eight years after surgery there is a clear cornea and a corrected visual acuity of 6/12. The axial length of the diseased eye has remained longer than that of the healthy eye.
Characteristics of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
Authors: Laatikainen L. , Tolppanen E‐M.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Characteristics of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and its predisposing factors were studied in a consecutive series of 342 patients operated on for retinal detachment (RD) at the University Eye Hospital in Helsinki in 1978–1981. On these, 234 were pre‐operatively examined and operated on by the senior author. The mean age of the patients was 52.8+1.0 (range 5.7 to 83.0) years, 49.1% were males, 50.9% females. Bilateral RD occurred in 9.9%, and another 4.7% had been treated for retinal breaks in the fellow eye. Of the main predisposing factors, myopia (≥–1.0D) was found in 50.6% of the phakic eyes, 23.0% of the eyes were aphakic, and lattice degeneration was found in 15.1% and trauma in 11.9% of the whole series. In the nontraumatic phakic group, lattice degeneration was present in 31.3%. In the aphakic group, 25.9% had underlying myopia and 8.1% showed lattice degeneration. The relative importance of these factors varied with age. Total RD was found in 60 eyes (17.0%), most commonly in aphakic eyes (32.1%). Macula was detached in 56.5%. Two or more retinal breaks were found in 40.9%. The type of breaks varied with age and refraction. Oral dialysis was common before the age of 20 in non‐myopic phakic eyes. Between 20 and 39 years, tears and holes were equally common, and after 40 years of age tears predominated. Tears outnumbered holes both in nonmyopic and myopic eyes, most round holes were found in myopic eyes. In 11.6% of the eyes no sure retinal breaks were detected. Relation of retinal breaks to peripheral retinal degenerations was studied.
The ophthalmological findings in autosomal recessive severe juvenile arteriosclerosis
Authors: Raitta Christina , Kaitila Ilkka
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Severe juvenile arteriosclerosis (JAS) is a rare, fatal disease with probably autosomal recessive inheritance. Precocious arterial murmurs and calcification of aorta and major arteries are associated with anaemia, growth retardation, prolonged systolic hypertension, gradual renal failure, gastrointestinal perforations, and early death. The ophthalmological findings in 5 boys and 1 girl between 7 and 17 years of age were retinal vascular tortuosity of main vessels, pre‐capillary arterioles and post‐capillary venules, sausage‐like bulging of central main arterioles and microaneurysms of arterioles of the central fundus. Narrowing and local constriction was a typical feature of peripheral arterioles. The combination of findings documented by fluorescein angiography in 4 children was typical for severe juvenile arteriosclerosis.
Histochemical evidence of limited reinnervation of human corneal grafts
Authors: Tervo Timo , Vannas Antti , Tervo Kaarina , Holden Brien A.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) positive nerve fibers were demonstrated histochemically in the normal human cornea and in 3 corneal grafts obtained after retransplantation. In the normal cornea AChE positive nerves form stromal nerve bundles, which divide into smaller branches contributing to the basal epithelial nerve plexus. Intraepithelial terminals are branches of this plexus. In a grafted cornea obtained 29 years after surgery the epithelium was innervated by a basal epithelial plexus, but only a few stromal nerve trunks had regenerated despite the long post‐operative time. Corneal sensitivity had not returned to normal in this case. The remaining grafts, obtained less than 3 years after surgery, contained very few nerves. It seems that neither the architecture nor the density of corneal nerves fully regenerate in the graft cornea, and this probably explains why sensitivity does not return to normal.
Gaucher disease — Norrbottnian type Ocular abnormalities
Authors: Erikson Anders , Wahlberg Ivar
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Ocular abnormalities in 22 patients with the Norrbottnian type of Gaucher disease are reported. During their first 10 years of life 10 patients had a horizontal gaze abnormality simulating congenital ocular motor apraxia. Examination showed signs of supranuclear oculomotor disturbances in several of them. Thirteen patients had squint secondary to weakness of the abductor muscles; 8/21 examined patients exhibited white retinal infiltrates, which mostly appeared after splenectomy; 8/19 examined patients had myopia. Except for the retinal changes, no connection was found between the abnormalities and the severity of the disease.
Influence of colchicine on the healing of corneal endothelium
Authors: Olsen Erling Grønvold , Davanger Martin
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The healing of a corneal endothelial defect involves cell division and cell migration. Microtubuli form the spindle‐fibers and parts of the cytoskeleton, and may therefore play a role in these cellular processes. In the present study colchicine is used in tissue culture to inhibit the assembly of microtubuli. Colchicine causes not only an arresting effect on cell division in the metaphase, but also an inhibitory effect on the cell migration. This latter effect is demonstrated by the radially directed, spindle‐shaped cells seen in the repair zone of the control corneas being replaced by flat rounded cells. In this respect, in the presence of colchicine, the corneal endothelial cells behave like fibroblasts and not like epithelial cells.
Proliferative vitreoretinopathy after intraocular lens implantation
Authors: Laatikainen Leila , Tarkkanen Ahti
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The first 3 patients with pseudophakic retinal detachment referred to the Helsinki University Eye Hospital are presented. All had undergone extracapsular cataract extraction with implantation of an iris‐supported IOL in one case and a posterior chamber lens in two cases. All showed proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) varying from Grade C2 to D1 when first examined for retinal detachment 6 to 16 weeks after cataract surgery. The retina was primarily re‐attached in all cases, but re‐detachment occurred in 2 of the 3 due to progressing PVR. Until now our incidence of pseudophakic retinal detachment is 0.3 %.
Timolol in aqueous humour after topical administration
Authors: Marén N. , Calissendorff B. M.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The concentration of timolol in aqueous humour after one single drop of timolol ophthalmic solution was studied in 19 patients. Relatively high concentrations were found (mean: 626 ng/ml), but the individual differences were great (range: 0 ng/ml – 2080 ng/ml). Possible explanations are discussed. No detectable levels of timolol were found in plasma (detection level ≥ 1 ng/ml).
Long‐term prognosis of visual field in glaucoma simplex and glaucoma capsulare
Authors: Pohjanpelto Pekka
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The fate of visual fields in 42 eyes with capsular glaucoma followed for 5 to 14 years (mean 9.1 years) and 46 eyes with simple glaucoma followed for 5 to 14 years (mean 10.2 years) was studied retrospectively. In the treatment the IOP levels were around 19.5 mmHg. In both groups the visual field deteriorated in 70–80% of eyes, and 11% of patients became blind. In most cases the progression appeared during the first 4–6 years of follow‐up, but in individual cases it did not occur until 8–10 years after the diagnosis. In 26 eyes disc cupping preceded the visual field loss. Five out of 42 eyes with capsular glaucoma developed retinal vein occlusion whereas this occurred in 2 out of 46 eyes with simple glaucoma. Two patients with IOP level of 9 mmHg maintained unchanged visual fields for 6 and 11 years, respectively.
Reflectometry of the precorneal film
Authors: Olsen Thomas
Published: May 2009

Abstract. In order to gain information about the thickness of the oily layer of the precorneal film, a clinical method of measuring the reflectivity of the precorneal film was developed. The method entails the use of a slit‐lamp photometer to measure the reflectivity at 2 selectecd wavelengths, 500 and 700 nm, at 20° incidence. Based on a physical model of the oily layer acting as a thin dielectric film, a theory is given on the interpretation of the results in terms of the thickness of the oily layer. In 10 normal subjects a mean reflectivity (+ SD) of 4.06% (+0.83) and 3.16% (+0.79) was found at 500 and 700 nm, respectively. A significant positive correlation between the measurements at the 2 wavelengths was found. It is shown, that these results are consistent with a thickness of about 40 nm, as being the most probable thickness of the oily layer. This value seems to be in accordance with other experimental data. Objective reflectometry may provide an important new tool for the study of the anteriormost part of the ocular surface.
The normal fundus fluorescein angiogram V
Authors: Nielsen Niels Vesti
Published: May 2009

Abstract. An independent assessment of red free fundus photographs and serial fundus fluorescein angiograms from 11 clinically healthy subjects and 5 diabetics was performed by 3 ophthalmologists twice with an interval of one month and showed no significant interobserver or intraobserver variation (P < 0.10). Among 8 clinically healthy subjects, fundus fluorescein angiograms of both eyes disclosed a difference in number and distribution of the angiographic elements (P < 0.05) between the two eyes in 6 subjects.
Intraocular pressure 4 months after implantation of the semiflexible McGhan/3M, style 70, anterior chamber lens
Authors: Hansen Tom Eggert , Næser Kristian , Nissen Jørgen Nørrelykke
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Sixty‐four patients were consecutively operated for senile cataract with implantation of the semiflexible McGhan/3M, style 70, anterior chamber lens. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured one day prior to the operation, 6 days and 3–8 months (mean 4 months) after the operation, and gonioscopy was performed one day prior to and 4 months after the operation. A significant fall in IOP was found in the operated eye 6 days after surgery. No significant change in IOP was found 4 months after surgery, neither in the operated eye nor in the non‐operated fellow eye. Iris tucking seemed to have no influence on the postoperative tension, while a significant rise in IOP was found in 13 eyes with adhesions between the iris and lens haptics as the only abnormal gonioscopic finding.
A study of the efficacy of two commercial preparations of timolol maleate with special reference to side effects
Authors: Uusitalo Risto J. , Palkama Arto , Stjernschantz Johan
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The intraocular pressure lowering effect of 2 commercial preparations of timolol maleate was studied in 57 adult outpatients suffering from open angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Special attention was paid to side effects of topical treatment with timolol, while comparing the efficacy of the 2 preparations. The intraocular pressure lowering effect with each strength (0.25% and 0.5%) of both preparations (Blocanolr̀ and Oftanr̀‐Timolol) was identical. No clearcut effect on lacrimal gland function, accommodation, or pupil size was seen. The adverse effects of timolol maleate during 6 months of treatment were of transient nature and generally mild. The only serious adverse effect was respiratory distress which occurred with 0.25% timolol in one patient. The respiratory distress developed slowly and the trial had to be discontinued for this patient after 2 months of treatment. There was a tendency toward a decrease in blood pressure and heart rate with both commercial preparations.
Post‐operative outcome in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
Authors: Laatikainen L. , Harju H. , Tolppanen E.‐M.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Anatomic and visual results of retinal detachment surgery were analyzed in 352 consecutive eyes operated on for rhegmatogenous type of retinal detachment in 1978–1981 at the University Eye Hospital in Helsinki. From 1978–79 to 1980–81, both the re‐attachment rate and the visual results improved significantly (P<0.05) In the latter period, the retina was re‐attached in 87% and partially re‐attached in 2%. In the same period, a good visual acuity (VA ≥ 0.5) was achieved in 39%, reasonable (VA 0.4–0.15) in 28%, and an ambulatory vision (VA 0.1–CF2m) in 16%, whereas 18% of the eyes became blind (VA CF1m or worse). A favourable outcome was related to good pre‐operative visual acuity, short duration and limited extent of detachment as well as sparing of the macula. Among factors which predicted an unfavourable outcome were aphakia, failure to detect retinal breaks, signs of proliferative vitreoretinopathy, multiple operations and old age. Poor outcome was more common after encircling as compared with localized procedures, but the success rate of the various types of operations was not comparable because encircling procedures were selected for more severe cases.
Incidence of choroidal malignant melanoma in Finland in the years 1973–1980
Authors: Teikari J. M. , Raivio I.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Recent reports concerning the incidence of choroidal and ciliary body melanomas have raised a suspicion of an increase of this malignancy in the developed countries. The rapid rise in the incidence of melanoma of the skin is well known. This study covers the incidence of choroidal and ciliary body melanomas in Finland over the years 1973–1980. A total of 382 cases of intraocular malignant tumours were reported to the Finnish Cancer Registry. 285 choroidal and ciliary body melanomas were found. The age‐specific incidences showed a steep rise from the age of 30 to the age of 70. The peak incidence was in the age‐group 70 and over. There was only one case, a girl 12 of age, in the age‐group 15 years and younger. The age adjusted incidences showed no significant increase during the study period. The age‐specific incidence showed no significant difference compared to a previous study. Sex, laterality or latitude were not found to be risk factors.
Meibomian orifices and Marx's line Studied by Triple Vital Staining
Authors: Norn Mogens
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The ciliary margins of the lower lids have been vital stained by the lipid‐specific Sudan III powder, fluorescein 0.1% and the bottom of the lacrimal river (Marx's line) by lissamine green 1% in 100 cases. The Meibomian orifices are situated in a straight row just in front of the Marx's line in the lipid phase. With increasing age (> 50 years) the orifices are more often displaced and also discharge their lipid in the depth of the aqueous phase. The number averaged 21.5 in the lipid phase and 1.7 in the aqueous phase. Active orifices staining with lipid were found in 45% of all orifices in normals, independent of age, and were increased in conjunctivitis in the lipid phase. Lissamine green‐stained orifices were independent of age, phase and diagnosis. The anterior edge of Marx's line may run an irregular course in elderly normals (> 50 years), significantly more often in conjunctivitis and blepharitis.
Infrared radiation and cataract. III differences between the two eyes of glass workers
Authors: Lydahl Eva , Glansholm Anders
Published: May 2009

Abstract. In an epidemiologic investigation of the eyes of 209 glass workers with occupational exposure to infrared (IR) radiation and 298 non‐IR‐exposed controls, the two eyes were compared regarding the degree of lens opacities. The left eye was found to be the most affected in a significantly larger number of persons than the right in IR‐exposed workers. The exposure to the two eyes was measured with a system of two pyroelectric radiometers monted in a face mask. The left eye was found to be exposed up to 2.3 times as much as the right in some working moments and never less. These results show a dose‐effect correlation between IR‐exposure and cataract.
Cataract in retinitis pigmentosa An analysis of cataract surgery results and pathological lens changes
Authors: Fagerholm P. , Philipson T.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The result of cataract surgery and lens pathoanatomical examination were presented in patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP). A retrospective study of 24 cataract extractions in 15 RP patients was carried out, with special regard to visual outcome and surgical complications. The results were compared to an age matched randomly selected control group. In the retinitis pigmentosa group the post‐operative visual acuity was generally good, and the surgical complications except for one case of central venous trombosis were not more frequent than in the control group. Seven lenses from 5 patients with RP were analysed using transmission electron microscopy and quantitative microradiography. In the lenses with a progressive subcapsular edema, extensive extracellular vacuolization was found in the lens epithelium. Focal degeneration of epithelial cells was seen both in the more stationary posterior subcapsular cataracts and the progressive subcapsular cataracts. Different degrees of mitochondrial swelling was found in the epithelial cells of the stationary cataracts. The subcapsular lens fiber changes consisted of an extensive swelling of hydrated cells together with a significant reduction in their dry mass content. Migrating elongated nuclei‐containing cells were found on the posterior capsule in both stationary and progressive cataracts.
Epidemiology of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in a Finnish population
Authors: Laatikainen L. , Tolppanen E‐M. , Harju H.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. During a ‐4 year period, 1978–1981, 310 eyes of 301 patients living in the district of the Helsinki University Central Hospital were examined for rhegmatogenous detachment of the retina. This corresponds to an annual incidence of 6.9 per 100 000 mean population. The mean age of the patients was 54.2 years, and the sex distribution corresponded with that in the general population. The right eye was significantly (P < 0.05) more often affected than the left eye. 78% of the eyes were phakic, and 22% were aphakic. The corresponding annual incidences were 5.4 for phakic and 1.5 for aphakic detachment per 100 000 mean population. Myopia was found in 51% of the phakic and in 24% of the aphakic eyes. The estimated annual incidence of rhegmatogenous detachment in the myopic population was more than 3 times that in the non‐myopic population. The annual incidence of traumatic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment was 0.8 per 100 000 mean population. There were significant (P < 0.005) seasonal variations in the occurrence of retinal detachment.
Histochemical analysis of secretory vesicles in nongoblet conjunctival epithelial cells
Authors: Greiner Jack V. , Weidman Thomas A. , Korb Donald R. , Allansmith Mathea R.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. An Alcian‐blue/Periodic acid Schiff reagent (AB/PAS) pH dependent staining method was used to identify the mucus content of secretory vesicles of nongoblet epithelial cells of the human conjunctiva. Twenty subjects were selected for biopsy of the midcentral upper tarsal conjunctiva: 10 subjects had no contact lens wearing experience, and 10 subjects wore contact lenses. Human respiratory epithelium was used as a control for the staining procedure. Four‐micron paraffin sections of conjunctival and control tissues were stained with Alcian blue at pH 2.5 and 1.0 and counterstained with PAS. Non‐goblet epithelial cell secretory vesicles contained neutral mucin, sialmucin, and sulphomucin. This study provides evidence for a ‘second’ mucus system of the conjunctiva, that this system is in the non‐goblet epithelial cells, and that the mucus of this system has sulphomucins, sialomucins and neutral mucins.
Ionic transport across corneal endothelium
Authors: Lyslo Atle , Kvernes Sigmund , Garlid Keith , Ratkje Signe Kjelstrup
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The active potential difference across bovine corneal endothelium was measured in vitro at different temperatures, pH, osmolality and salt compositions. The measurements were made using either identical or different solutions on each side of the membrane. The experimental results are consistent with a model in which sodium is actively transported into the intercellular cleft. We propose that Na+ re‐enters the cell electroneutrally by coupled co‐transport with carbonate, derived from bicarbonate in the solution.
Concentration‐dependent precorneal loss of pilocarpine in rabbit eyes
Authors: Urtti Arto , Salminen Lotta
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Precorneal loss of pilocarpine was studied in pigmented and albino rabbits. We instilled 25 μl of isotonic pilocarpine solution, pH 6.4, into rabbit eyes and monitored drug concentration in the precorneal tear film. Increased concentration (0.2% – 2.0%) of pilocarpine accelerated precorneal drug loss from the tear film from 0.686 min−1 to 1.064 min−1. This increase was mainly due to induced lacrimation. Polyvinyl alcohol (1.4%) retarded precorneal loss of pilocarpine. The rate of loss was the same in pigmented and albino rabbits. The effects of the changed precorneal loss of pilocarpine on corneal drug absorption are discussed.
The fellow eye in patients with unilateral retinal detachment: findings and prophylactic treatment
Authors: Laatikainen Leila
Published: May 2009

Abstract. During a 4‐year period, 1978–1981, 312 patients were operated on for unilateral rhegmatogenous detachment of the retina. Of the fellow eyes, 11 % showed moderate (VA 0.15‐0.4) and 5% severe (VA 0.1) visual impairment. Of the fellow eyes 49 % were myopic (‐ 1.0 D. or more), and aphakia was present in 14%. Details of the peripheral fundus were adequately recordable for 260 fellow eyes. Degenerations considered to predispose to retinal detachment were found in 98 eyes (38%): lattice degeneration in 54 (21 %), granular tuft in 17 (7 %), retinal tear(s) in 12 (5%), and retinoschisis in 15 (6%). Prophylactic treatment of predisposing degenerations was performed in 91 of the 98 eyes using cryo‐ or photocoagulation (argon laser). No intra‐ or permanent post‐operative complications were noticed. One of the treated fellow eyes (1.1%) detached 10 months after prophylactic treatment due to new tears. In the untreated group, 6 of the 221 eyes detached (2.7%). The difference was not statistically significant, but the groups were not comparable because 93 % of the eyes showing predisposing degenerations were treated. None of the eyes treated for retinal breaks or lattice degeneration has detached. In these cases prophylactic treatment of the fellow eye is recommended. In most eyes cryocoagulation seems to be preferable to photocoagulation.
Vitrectomy in double perforating eye injuries
Authors: Vatne Harald Overskott , Syrdalen Per
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The results of 41 consecutive cases of double perforating eye injuries, operated with vitrectomy between December 1975 and December 1982, are reported. Fourteen eyes (34%) obtained a visual acuity of 5/10 or better, and 23 eyes (56%) obtained 5/200 or better. Twenty‐eight (68%) developed retinal detachment, and 12 of these were attached by surgery. In this series the pre‐operative visual function and the type of injury had a significant effect on the final result. No beneficial effect from early (within 14 days) vitrectomy could be shown.
Some problems involved in employing the ERG c‐wave in pharmacological experiments: conditioning in pigmented rabbits
Authors: Nao‐i Nobuhisa , Kim Si‐Yeol , Honda Yoshihito
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The large inter‐ and intra‐individual variations in ERG c‐waves have prevented the application of the component in pharmacological experiments on the retinal pigment epithelial function. We examined some of the problems involved in employing the c‐wave in pharmacological experiments using rabbit retinas.

Under our experimental conditions, the c‐wave amplitudes in some rabbits reached equilibrium under intermittent stimuli, while in others they increased with time and did not reach a constant level in 3 h.

The c‐wave amplitudes of the right and left eyes were similar, indicating that the contralateral eye can be used as a control during local administration of drugs.

The c‐wave amplitude under 50 lux light had smaller inter‐individual variations than that in the dark. This may be a useful indicator of the retinal pigment epithelium function when drugs are administered systemically.
Epithelial healing: quantitative monitoring of the cornea following alkali burn
Authors: Mauger T. F. , Hill R. M.
Published: May 2009

Abstract A micropolarographic system was used as a quantitative means of monitoring the healing course of corneal epithelium following a 10 second exposure to 0.20 N sodium hydroxide solution. Concentrations of less than that strength produced inconsistent flux baselines due to incomplete damage to the epithelium, while higher concentrations commonly involved the stroma as well. Virtually complete epithelial destruction (down to the basement membrane) and reproducible flux baselines were found, however, with the 0.20 N induced lesion studied in detail here. The healing course following those exposures consisted of two well defined phases: an intial period of hypoflux lasting some 48 h before rising back up to the pre‐lesion baseline, followed then by a period of hyperflux lasting about 7 days before decreasing once again down to the pre‐lesion baseline. This oxygen flux sequence closely parallels certain sliding and mitotic phases of epithelial healing already established in the literature.
Binocular interaction in the VEP to grating stimulation II. Spatial frequency effects
Authors: Jakobsson Peter , Lennerstrand Gunnar
Published: May 2009

Abstract The size specificity of the binocular interaction in the VEP was investigated. VEPs elicited by sine wave gratings were recorded on 3 subjects, with the exception of one experiment where 6 subjects were tested. The recording technique made it possible to obtain responses from each eye, even during binocular stimulation. The VEP amplitude for each eye during monocular stimulation was compared with the response of the same eye during binocular stimulation. A low binocular/monocular ratio indicated a high binocular interaction. When each eye was stimulated by the same spatial frequency, the binocular interaction was highest in the spatial frequency band of 2–4 c/d. When each eye was stimulated by a different spatial frequency, the binocular interaction decreased as the frequencies were made progressively more unequal. The bandwidth at half amplitude was about 1 octave around the center frequency.
Fluorescein angiography in homozygote and carrier state of progressive retinal atrophy of the poodle; comparative aspects with human retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Koskinen Leena , Raitta Christina , Kommonen Bertel
Published: May 2009

Abstract Fluorescein angiographic findings in 7 carriers and 7 homozygotes of a recessively inherited disease, generalized progressive retinal atrophy of the poodle, are described in detail and comparisons with 24 healthy control poodles are presented. Two angiographic types of the disease could be distinguished. These are: Type 1, a diffuse, widespread choriocapillaris atrophy associated with retinal vascular and depigmentation changes and Type 2, a predominantly retinal involvement combined with focal choroidal atrophic patches lineating major vessels. These findings share similarities with the observations made of the human disease, retinitis pigmentosa. Unaffected carriers of the disease showed characteristic fundus changes in angiography: patchy, hyperfluorescent depigmentation changes and often minor narrowing and irregularities of the arterioles and poorly visible capillary bed.
Ocular effects of oral lithium in humans
Authors: Kaufman Paul L. , Jefferson James W. , Ackerman Deborah , Baumgartner Sally
Published: May 2009

Abstract Thirteen healthy adult subjects, 34.2 ± 7.4 years of age received oral lithium carbonate, 900 or 1200 mg daily for 10 days. Refraction, visual acuity, visual fields, corneal sensation, basal tear secretion, ocular motility, convergence amplitude, near point of convergence, Hertel exophthalmometry, pupillary reflexes, intraocular pressure, voluntary and pilocarpine‐induced accommodation, and biomicroscopy and ophthalmoscopy of the anterior and posterior ocular segments were determined 4 days prior to starting lithium, 10 days after commencing lithium, and 14 days after discontinuing lithium. Some subjective visual or ocular complaints were reported, but no clinically or statistically significant change occurred in any parameter studied. There were slight, non‐significant tendencies toward constriction of the measured visual field, reduction of voluntary and pilocarpine‐induced accommodation, and reduction of near convergence amplitude while taking lithium; the former two were reversed when lithium was discontinued, the latter was not.
Scanning electron microscopy of normal human corneal epithelium obtained by scraping‐off in vivo
Authors: Versura P. , Bonvicini F. , Caramazza R. , Laschi R.
Published: May 2009

Abstract The surface of normal human corneal epithelium was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The study was carried out on specimens obtained by scraping‐off in vivo, and immediately fixed. Four different types of microprojections were observed on the epithelial surface: microridges, microvilli, tufted microvilli and knobs. Detailed high magnification of surface microprojections showed that they consist of subunits. Our data suggest a correlation between surface morphology and maturity of the corneal epithelial cell. An evolutive sequence is proposed, from the youngest cell, provided with microridges, to the oldest exfoliating one, with knobs.
Limbal and axial chamber depth variations
Authors: Alsbirk P. H.
Published: May 2009

Abstract In an unselected population sample of 505 adult Greenland Eskimos limbal chamber depth (LCD) was estimated according to van Herick et al. (1969), and axial chamber depth (ACD) was measured optically using Haag Streit pachymetry. For comparison LCD was estimated in 308 Danes above 40 years. A marked naso‐temporal asymmetry in LCD scoring was found indicating a shallower chamber at the temporal limbus. No corresponding gonioscopic asymmetry was observed. Significant age, sex, and ethnic variations were demonstrated, the lower levels of both parameters being found in elderly persons, women and Eskimos, respectively. Danes showed a lower level of LCD scores than reported in Americans. In detection of eyes showing shallow chambers in the Eskimo population (arbitrarily: ACD ≦ 2.0 mm) the van Herick slit‐lamp test at temporal limbus yielded a sensitivity of 91%, a specificity of 53% and predictive values of a positive and a negative test of 30% and 96%, respectively. At gonioscopy narrow angles were often found among eyes showing LCD ≤ 1/4 of corneal thickness, even when ACD was > 2.0 mm (in 25%).
Prognostic factors in the development of manifest open angle glaucoma
Authors: Høvding Gunnar , Aasved Henry
Published: May 2009

Abstract Ninety‐three patients, who during a mass screening for glaucoma in 1962‐63 attended a thorough ophthalmological examination, were re‐examined in 1980‐82. At the mass screening 42 patients had IOP ≧ 21 mmHg in at least 1 eye, but none of the 93 patients had glaucomatous optic disc excavations or visual field defects. At the re‐examination, 28 patients (30.1%) had developed manifest open angle glaucoma in at least 1 eye. This development was significantly correlated to the height of the IOP, both at the mass screening, during the period of observation and at the follow‐up study (P < 0.05‐P < 0.002). A reduced outflow facility measured at the mass screening was also significantly associated with the later development of manifest glaucomatous damage (P < 0.05‐P < 0.01). In addition, fibrillopathy (pseudoexfoliation), manifest glaucoma in the ‘fellow eye’ and a positive family history for glaucoma were found to be important risk factors.
Timolol inhibits adenylate cyclase activity in the iris‐ciliary body and trabecular meshwork of the eye and blocks activation of the enzyme by salbutamol
Authors: Phylactos Andreas C.
Published: May 2009

AbstractThe enzymatic activity of adenylate cyclase in homogenates and membrane‐rich fractions prepared from rabbit iris‐ciliary bodies and bovine trabecular meshwork was found to be inhibited by timolol. Treatment of iris‐ciliary body homogenates with Triton X‐305 resulted in abolition of the inhibitory effect of the drug on the activity of the enzyme. The stimulatory effect of salbutamol on the enzyme was also susceptible to blockade by timolol. It is suggested that the hypotensive action of timolol on intraocular pressure results from structural and functional changes induced on the plasma membranes of the iris‐ciliary body and trabecular meshwork by the thiadiazole group of the molecule, and, also, from the occupation of the adrenergic receptors of the iris‐ciliary body by the tert‐butylamino‐2‐hydroxypropoxy part of the compound.
Neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease
Authors: Haltia Matti , Tarkkanen Ahti , Somer Hannu , Palo Jorma , Karli Hillevi
Published: May 2009

Abstract Monozygotic twin sisters were afflicted by a chronic progressive neurological disease characterized by slurred speech, nystagmus and oculogyral spasms as well as further extrapyramidal and lower motor neuron abnormalities. At autopsy severe loss of nigral and craniospinal motor neurons was noted. In the nuclei of most nerve cell types of the central and peripheral nervous system, roundish inclusion bodies of 3 to 10 μm in diameter were found. Ocular pathology revealed the presence of identical inclusion bodies in the ganglion cells and ganglion cell loss in the posterior retina. Retinal astrocytosis and loss of myelinated axons of the optic nerve were interpreted as reactive features. No inclusions were found in the retinal pigment epithelium. Careful neuro‐ophthalmological studies of the first‐degree relatives revealed low b‐wave of the ERG with other slight aberrations. These were assumed to represent either a carrier or a subclinical state of this presumably inherited disorder.
Labelling of retinal capillaries in mice by repeated [3H]thymidine injections
Authors: Naeser Peter , Swenne Ingemar
Published: May 2009

Abstract Injections of [3H]thymidine intraperitoneally to mice on 3 consecutive days label a small number of retinal vascular cells. A single dose of the tracer is not sufficient for adequate cell marking. Retinal capillaries from obese‐hyperglycemic mice of different ages examined by this method showed no significant difference of the labelling index compared to their normal, lean controls. The present method is simple and leaves the eyes undisturbed. It may be considered well suitable for experimental studies on cell replication in the retinal capillaries.
Effect of honan intraocular pressure reducer on ocular and optic nerve blood flow in phakic rabbit eyes
Authors: Jay W. M. , Aziz M. Z. , Green K.
Published: May 2009

AbstractThe Honan Intraocular Pressure Reducer (HIPR) was applied to rabbit eyes for 30 min at pressure settings of 0, 30, 50, or 100 mmHg. Ocular blood flow was measured using (85Sr) radioactively labelled 15 urn microspheres either with the HIPR applied to the eye or 15 min after removal. Intraocular pressure was measured before applying the HIPR, immediately after removal, or 15 min after removal. At all pressure settings, the HIPR significantly lowered the IOP (P0.05) both immediately and 15 min after removal. At all pressure settings, except 0 mmHg, blood flow was significantly (P0.05) both immediately and 15 min after removal. Al all pressure settings, except 0 mmHg, blood flow was significantly (P0.05) lower with the HIPR applied compared to 15 min after removal.
Nuclear vacuoles in nuclear cataract
Authors: Palmquist B.‐M. , Fagerholm P. P. , Philipson B. T.
Published: May 2009

Abstract The human lens nucleus has always been described as a homogeneous part of the lens, and if any distinct opacities are found, these are considered to be congenital. However, in lenses with nuclear cataract, both of senile type and those induced by hyperbaric oxygen, we have found relatively transparent vacuoles in the nucleus of similar appearance as cortical vacuoles. In cataracts induced by hyperbaric oxygen the vacuoles were reversible to some extent. The vacuoles have been investigated with slit‐lamp photography and quantitative microradiography. Nuclear vacuoles were found i 11 out of 25 patients treated with hyperbaric oxygen compared to 19 out of 100 pre‐operatively examined senile nuclear cataracts. In the microradiographs the vacuoles appeared as dark rounded areas with a lower dry mass content (˜0.30g · cm‐3) than the surroundings (˜0.50g · cm‐3).
The concentration of lactoferrin in tears of normals and of diabetics
Authors: Jensen O. L. , Gluud B. S. , Birgens H. S.
Published: May 2009

Abstract The tear lactoferrin content and the tear secretion rate was determined in 105 normal subjects (age range: 15–93 years) and 21 diabetic patients (age 2 1–78 years). Tear sampling was performed using glass capillaries and the lactoferrin concentration in tears was tested employing an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Tear secretion rate was measured using standardized Halberg filter paper placed in the inferior fornix for 5 min. The lactoferrin level of normal tears showed a significant inverse correlation with age, the mean value of the 8th decade (0.81 mg/ml) constituting only about half the value of the lactoferrin level found in the 3rd decade (1.48 mg/ml). The tear secretion rate also displayed a significant decrease with age, but no correlation could be demonstrated between the tear secretion rate and lactoferrin concentration. No difference was found in lactoferrin level between men and women.

We were not able to demonstrate any correlation between lactoferrin content of tears and the duration of diabetes in the 21 diabetic subjects, and there was no difference between the level of lactoferrin in normal tears compared to the concentration in diabetic tears. No difference was found between the tear secretion rate in normals and in diabetics.
Corneal transplantation using long‐term cultured donor material
Authors: Andersen Jörgen , Ehlers Niels
Published: May 2009

Abstract Twenty‐seven corneal transplantations with a mean duration of donor incubation of 14.3 days (group 1) and 36 transplantations with a mean duration of incubation of 29.8 days (group 2) were followed for 18 months. No significant difference was found in graft survival between the two groups (81 versus 80%). Almost all graft failures were found among pre‐operatively defined high‐risk cases, i.e. previously transplantated and/or vascularized recipient cornea. The profile of the corneal thickness curve was almost identical in the two groups, and normal values were reached in both. Visual acuity was 0.5 or better in 23% of the cases in group 1, and 35% in group 2. These figures were highly influenced by co‐existing and complicating eye disease i.e. amblyopia, cataract, macular degeneration and glaucoma. The results show that 2 weeks and 4 weeks cultured cornea do not differ with respect to graft survival and thickness. The over all results indicate that long‐term cultured donor material is suitable for corneal transplantation and fully comparable to material stored by other methods.
Photorefraction: A useful tool to detect small angle strabismus
Authors: Abrahamsson M. , Fabian G. , Sjöstrand J.
Published: May 2009

Abstract Forty patients with small angle strabismus and 30 straight eyed controls were examined by photo‐refraction in order to establish the validity of this method to detect stabismus. The sensitivity of the method was based on detection of asymmetry of the corneal light and/or fundus reflexes. All cases with a deviation of 2 degrees or more were detected, and 2 controls were falsely considered to be strabismic patients. The sensitivity of the method decreased when the patient wore optimal correction. Photorefraction therefore is considered to be a reliable, simple, and cheap tool with high sensitivity and specificity in screening for strabismus as well as refractive errors.
Mass screening of children for strabismus or ametropia with two‐flash photoskiascopy
Authors: Kaakinen Kari , Kaseva Heikki , Kause Eeva‐Raija
Published: May 2009

Abstract 169 non‐selected 1–5 year‐old children (338 eyes) were screened by two‐flash photoskiascopy with an autofocus camera for strabismus, high anisometropia and high ametropias without cycloplegia. The photography was performed by nurses or technicians and the photographs were analyzed by an optician. The sensitivity of the method for the refractive errors was tested with an optical demonstration eye. Findings: 5 esotropias, 1 exotropia, 1 straight‐eyed hypermetropic anisometropia of 4 diopters; 1 false positive high hyperopia (of +2.5 diopters) of both eyes. The examination of the photographs showed slight refractive errors in 33 cases (66 eyes; 19.5%): two of them of symmetrical myopia of ‐1.0 and ‐1.75 diopters and 31 of symmetrical hyperopia of +0.25 to +4.25 diopters in rhinoscopy. 128 cases (256 eyes; 76%) were normal on the photographs. Of these, 37 non‐selected cases (74 eyes) were checked clinically and were symmetrical cases of ‐1.0 to +3.25 diopters on retinoscopy. No false negative cases appeared among these control cases. 2,4% of the photographs failed technically or because of non‐cooperation of the children. Two‐flash photoskiascopy, performed by technicians or nurses provides a valuable tool for mass screening of infants for strabismus and/or ametropia causing amblyopia.
Computerized enhancement of retinal nerve fiber layer
Authors: Peli Eli , Hedges Thomas R. , Schwartz Bernard
Published: May 2009

Abstract We investigated a number of image processing techniques for enhancing the retinal nerve fiber layer (NFL) in fundus photographs taken with red‐free light. Wedge‐type defects within the NFL were enhanced best by contrast enhancement algorithms such as histogram modification and extremum sharpening. Narrow, slitlike NFL defects can be enhanced by directional enhancement techniques. Normal NFL features were enhanced best by high‐pass filtering techniques such as homomorphic filtering and adaptive enhancement. The enhanced normal NFL may be useful in the analysis of diffuse NFL loss. All of these successful enhancements of normal and defective features indicate that enhancing fundus photographs with digital image processing techniques should facilitate early detection of optic nerve damage from glaucoma and other diseases.
Congenital stationary night blindness
Authors: Haim Marianne
Published: May 2009

Abstract Congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB) seems to be a very rare condition in Scandinavia. From Denmark a 7‐generation family with the dominant form was published in 1909, and one family with the X‐linked recessive form was reported from Norway. On going through the files of the National Eye Clinic for Visually Impaired, 7 patients were found (I dominant, 4 X‐linked recessive, I simplex case and I autosomal recessive). Including anamnestic information on relatives, 17 patients had a diagnosis of CSNB. The clinical findings in these cases are reported with stress on alteration in ERG, dark adaptation and the optic discs. The loss of oscillatory potentials in a carrier of CSNB is described. The provisional findings seem to indicate that 3 genetic variants are present in the Danish population. The real prevalence is estimated considerably higher than 17 out of 5 million.