bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Possible role of transferrin in exfoliation syndrome
Authors: Koliakos G. G. , Triantos A. , Dimitriadou A. , Trakatellis A. C. , Konstas A. G. P. , Dimitrakoulias N. , Kardasopoulos A.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Protein concentration was measured in 30 exfoliation syndrome samples and 22 age matched controls. Exfoliation samples contained significantly more protein than controls. We also analyzed by SDS gel electrophoresis 32 aqueous samples, 12 with exfoliation syndrome and 20 age matched controls. A novel finding in all samples was a double band with 77 kDa and 78 kDa. These bands probably represent transferrin isoforms, with different carbohydrate side chains. Exfoliation samples contained a lower amount of the 77 kDa band in comparison to the amount of the 78 kDa band. The lower relative concentration of this transferrin isoform in the exfoliation syndrome samples may be indicative of its possible involvement in the disorder. A different oligosaccharide side chain in combination with a relatively high protein concentration may lead to sedimentation of this molecule. On the other hand, laminin, a glycoprotein detected previously in exfoliation material, contains similar oligosaccharide side chains with transferrin. Thus the oligosaccharide side chains of both proteins may be influenced by the same factors.
The intraocular pressure lowering effect of timolol in gel‐forming solution
Authors: Rosenlund Ellen F.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The effect on the intraocular pressure (IOP) of 0.5% timolol solution given twice daily was compared to 0.5% timolol in gel‐forming solution given once daily. Patients (n = 223) having an IOP of above 22 mmHg were recruited from 16 eye specialist centres in Scandinavia and Finland. The patients were randomized to two treatment groups, timolol solution treatment and timolol in gel‐forming solution treatment. Eyes with and without pseudoexfoliation were included. The patients were stratified regarding the presence or not of pseudoexfoliation, to ensure appropriate distribution of this condition. No difference in intraocular pressure reducing effect was registered for the two groups. The pressure reducing effect of the two modes of treatment was not affected by the presence or not of pseudoexfoliation. The study also included registration of local and systemic signs and symptoms possibly related to the study medications. Blurring of vision occurred more often in patients given 0.5% timolol in gel‐forming solution compared to timolol solution. The heart rate decreased statistically significantly in patients given timolol solution, but not in patients given timolol in gel‐forming solution. This study suggests that treatment with 0.5% timolol in gel‐forming solution once a day may be equally as good as 0.5% timolol solution given twice a day in patients with glaucoma both with and without pseudoexfoliation.
Idiopathic orbital inflammatory disease
Authors: Günalp Ilhan , Gündüz Kaan , Yazar Zeliha
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to review our clinical experience with 132 idiopathic orbital inflammation cases seen between 1971 and 1994. Clinical charts of the patients were evaluated retrospectively. Patient age ranged from 5 to 80 (mean 46.5) years. The follow‐up period was between 6 to 172 (mean 42.8) months. Proptosis (82%), motility restriction (54%), visual acuity loss (38%) were the three more common presenting signs. The diagnosis was made by open biopsy in 96 cases and clinically in 36 cases. Radiologic patterns of involvement were available for 84 cases. Diffuse inflammatory disease (40 cases) was the most frequent radiologic pattern followed by myositis (21 cases) and dacryoadenitis (14 cases). Focal encapsulated mass (5 cases), Tolosa‐Hunt syndrome (2 cases) perineuritis (1 case) and periscleritis (1 case) were the other types of orbital pseudotumors. The response to treatment was known for 60 of the 84 radiologically classified cases. High‐dose oral corticosteroid treatment was successful in 35 out of 60 (58.3%) cases and radiotherapy in 9 out of 14 (64.3%) cases resistant to corticosteroids. One resistant case responded to cyclophosphamide and 2 cases with focal mass lesions were treated with orbitotomy. Four additional cases had spontaneous remission. Overall, 51 out of 64 patients (79.7%) had an eventual good outcome. In conclusion, we found open biopsy to be a safe and reliable procedure in orbital pseudotumors with the exclusion of acute phase cases. The success rate of treatment for this group of orbital disorders is high with the exception of certain disease patterns.
An unusual intraocular foreign body
Authors: Gupta Ashok Kumar , Ghosh Basudeb , Mazumdar Shahana , Gupta Aloke
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Retained intraocular cilia embedded in the retina are extremely rare. A report of an unusual case of cilia embedded in posterior retina is presented along with a review of available literature. A 22‐year‐old male presented with a history of diminished vision and metamorphopsia 1 month after the successful repair of an ocular perforation. Anterior segment examination revealed a sutured superotemporal limbal tear with a surgical iris coloboma and a normally positioned clear lens. Ophthalmoscopic examination revealed a normal optic disc, macular striations and 2 cilia embedded in the retina approximately 2 disc diameters superotemporal to fovea. Vitrectomy with removal of cilia and endolaser was performed. This unusual case shows that cilia may become embedded intraocularly during an ocular perforation and that transvitreal removal may be a preferred mode of therapy with the availability of sophisticated vitreoretinal instrumentation.
A comparative study of epithelial hyperplasia after PRK: Summit versus VISX in the same patient
Authors: Hamberg‐Nyström Helene , Fagerholm Per , Tengroth Björn , Gauthier Charline A. , Holden Brien A. , Epstein Daniel
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Epithelial hyperplasia has been found to occur after photorefractive keratectomy in eyes treated with small (5 mm or less) ablation zone diameters with the Summit laser, but not with large zones (6 mm) with the VISX laser (Gauthier et al. 1995a). The aim of this study was to further investigate the effect of surgical parameters on epithelial hyperplasia by comparing eyes treated with the same zone diameter but two different lasers. We examined 11 subjects who had photorefractive keratectomy for myopia performed with 5 mm ablation zones with the Summit excimer laser in one eye and the VISX 20/20 laser in the fellow eye an average of 21 months previously. Epithelial thickness and corneal topography were measured. The mean epithelial thickness was not statistically different (p = 0.083) between the eyes treated with the Summit (66 ± 12 μm) and VISX (60 ± 14 μm) lasers. Postoperative corneal dioptric power showed a similar profile between the two eyes at the edge of the zone, with the VISX‐treated corneas being more shallow centrally. There was a trend towards greater epithelial thickness with deeper ablations. This study supports the hypothesis that epithelial hyperplasia is dependent on ablation zone diameter and ablation depth.
The efficacy of soft contact lens disinfection solutions against Serratia marcescens and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Parment Per Arne , Colucci Betina , Nyström Bertil
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Samples of five different solutions for disinfection of soft contact lenses were experimentally inoculated with a strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Serratia marcescens. No bacteria could be detected after one hour in solutions with biguanids, while they survived in reduced number up to 72 h in solutions with polyquaternium as active substance. However, prolonged survival after one week could not be detected. Lenses treated with polyquaternium based contact lens disinfectant solutions overnight may still harbour bacteria, which might increase the risk for bacterial complications, such as keratitis.
I: A bioavailability comparison in rabbits after a single topical ocular application of prednisolone acetate formulated as a high‐viscosity gel and as an aqueous suspension
Authors: Johansen Sven , Prause Jan Ulrik , Rask‐Pedersen Eva
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT To increase contact time between drug and ocular surface and thus improve the bioavailability, we used the high‐viscous, water‐soluble polymer carbomer Leogel (carbomer 0.5%). The drugs were applied to Copenhagen white rabbits as a single application. We compared the bioavailability of prednisolone acetate 0.5% in Leogel with fusidic acid 1% after 1, 4, 7 and 10 h (n = 3 at each time points) with that obtained when doubling the prednisolone acetate concentration in unchanged Leogel and fusidic acid 1% in 12 rabbits. In addition we compared the bioavailability of prednisolone acetate 0.5% given in 1) Leogel using fusidic acid 1% with that obtained using 2) aqueous sulfacetamide sodium 10% as vehicle after 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 6, 8 and 12 h (n = 6 at each time points) in 54 rabbits. When doubling the prednisolone acetate dose an increase in bioavailability was achieved in conjunctiva, cornea and aqueous humour with 1.57, 3.86 and 2.18 times, respectively. Prednisolone concentrations in cornea, conjunctiva and aqueous humour were higher using the Leogel vehicle than using the aqueous suspension. The bioavailability in 0–12 h for prednisolone acetate in Leogel and fusidic acid 1% to conjunctiva was significantly higher (p = 0.003) than for prednisolone acetate in aqueous and sulfacetamide sodium 10%. The bioavailability (0–6 h) for conjunctiva was significantly higher for the Leogel preparation than for the aqueous suspension (p < 0.001). For cornea and aqueous humour, the bioavailability values for the total period (0–12 h) do not differ significantly. However, for the first 6 h the difference is significant (p < 0.001 for cornea and p = 0.003 for aqueous humour).
II. An ocular bioavailability comparison in rabbits of prednisolone acetate after repeated topical applications formulated as a high‐viscosity gel and as an aqueous suspension
Authors: Johansen Sven , Prause Jan Ulrik , Rask‐Pedersen Eva
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT To increase contact time between drug and ocular surface and thus improve the ocular bioavailability, we used the high‐viscous, water‐soluble polymer carbomer Leogel (carbomer 0.5%). We compared the bioavailability of prednisolone acetate 0.5% given in 1) Leogel using fusidic acid 1% with that obtained using 2) aqueous sulfacetamide sodium 10% as vehicle. We applied the drugs to Copenhagen white rabbits as repeated topical applications (gel preparation: twice daily; aqueous preparation: four times daily) for one week. Dosis regimen was chosen according to earlier investigations (Johansen et al. 1995). Prednisolone concentrations in cornea, conjunctiva and aqueous humour were shown to be higher using the Leogel vehicle than using the aqueous suspension. Fusidic acid and sulfacetamide sodium values were compared with values from a single application (Johansen et al. 1995). Fusidic acid reached higher concentration levels in cornea, conjunctiva and aqueous humour after repeated applications than after a single application. Sulfacetamide sodium concentrations did not rise when applied four times daily for one week. Leogel increases the ocular bioavailability of substance(s) in the gel and allows lower drug concentrations and/or application frequencies.
Pre‐term delivery and subsequent ocular development
Authors: Fledelius Hans C.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Refractive findings are reported in a follow‐up study comprising 88 children aged 7–10 years, who were submitted to regular control for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in the first months after their pre‐term delivery 1982‐84 (mean birthweight 1467 g, mean gestational age 31 weeks). The refractive range was ‐13 to +6.75 D. In four subjects with fully‐blown ROP both eyes were left blind and dysmorphic. Twenty‐four had had ROP with regression; myopia of prematurity (MOP) appeared in six (25%). At follow‐up the myopia frequency in the remaining 60 without ROP was 5%. Out of the 9 subjects with uni‐ or bilateral myopia of prematurity three had no evidence of early ROP. With a median corrected acuity of 0.5 only, the eyes with MOP had a lower corrected visual score than in the rest of the material (median monocular acuity 0.9). The latter value is even a little lower than what was previously reported in full‐terms of a similar age (median acuity above 1.0). Obviously, as a sequel to the pre‐term delivery we are dealing not only with early myopia in some subjects; further, the potential for developing full vision appears influenced and reduced. This applies to the total group of ex‐prematures, but in particular it is valid for myopia of prematurity.
Risk factors associated with retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in Northern Jutland, Denmark 1990–1993
Authors: Nødgaard Hanne , Hansen Helle , Andreasen Helle , Sørensen Henrik Toft
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT This population‐based, historical, follow‐up study analysed possible risk factors for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and resulting visual impairment in newborns over a period of 3½ years in the County of Northern Jutland, Denmark. The study subjects were 141 infants with birth weight ≤ 1500 grams and gestational age < 35 completed weeks who survived to a first eye examination at 5 weeks. The incidence of ROP (all stages) was 18%, and the frequency of severe visual impairment from ROP was 14/100,000 live births. A logistic regression analysis identified low gestational age, multiple births, continuous oxygen treatment, and male sex as risk factors for ROP. The main factor in the prevention of ROP is to prevent preterm births.
Viability of human corneal keratocytes during organ culture
Authors: Møller‐Pedersen Torben , Møller Holger J.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The viability of human corneal keratocytes was assessed during four weeks of ‘closed system’ organ culture at 31°C. After 28 days of culturing, the entire keratocyte population was still alive and viable because all cells incorporated uridine; a parameter for RNA‐synthesis. During the first 14 days, mitoses were found in the anterior half of the stroma (0.23% mitoses per 48 h), while only few keratocytes were able to divide at day 28 (0.01% mitoses per 48 h). Metabolic parameters revealed a progressing acidosis in the medium with oxygen and glucose depletion. Immunological measurements of keratan sulphate proteoglycan suggested that approximately 1% of the total content was lost during the period. In conclusion, our current organ culture technique can maintain a viable keratocyte population for four weeks; a viable stroma can be grafted within this period.
Thyroid disease, a risk factor for optic neuropathy mimicking normal‐tension glaucoma
Authors: Jämsén Kristina
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The aethiology and pathogenesis of normal‐tension glaucoma (NTG) is unknown but increasing evidence suggests multiple mechanisms of damage. Six out of 25 NTG patients (24%) had thyroid disease. The mean age of these patients was 66.5 ± 9 years and of those without thyroid disease 60.7 ± 9.6 years. The thyroid group was more hyperopic. The difference in mean intraocular pressure was not significant, but in the thyroid group the mean diurnal IOP variations were significantly smaller. The pattern VEP results indicated a correlation between optic neuropathy and prolonged latency of the P100 component in the group with thyroid disease and a correlation between optic neuropathy and lowered N80‐P100 amplitudes in the group without. For one patient with hypothyroidism the delayed latency in the worse eye was normalized after thyroxine substitution. Due to overlapping the absolute values of P100 and the N80‐P100 peak‐peak amplitudes in pattern VEP cannot be used for differential diagnosis. These findings indicate that thyroid disease either causes optic neuropathy mimicking glaucomatous damage or is a risk factor for glaucoma.
Frequency of exfoliation syndrome in Greek cataract patients
Authors: Konstas A. G. P. , Dimitrakoulias N. , Kourtzidou O. , Filidis K. , Bufidis T. , Benos A.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The frequency of exfoliation syndrome (EXS) was investigated in a group of Greek patients undergoing extracapsular cataract surgery. Five hundred and nine (509) consecutive cataract patients without any other manifest ocular abnormality were prospectively examined for the presence of EXS. Patients were clinically divided into 3 groups:group I (EXS group) consisted of patients in whom exfoliation material deposition could be seen; Group II (possible EXS group) comprised patients who demonstrated a number of pigmentary signs and group III (normal subjects) comprised patients with senile cataract and no sign of EXS. EXS was found in 140 (28%) of our patients, possible EXS in 119 (23%) and the rest (49%) had no evidence of EXS. Patients with EXS were older (mean age 73.8) when compared to the possible EXS group (70 years) and the control group (64.7 years). The IOP was significantly higher in patients with EXS (mean 15.5 mmHg versus 14.3 mmHg in the other two groups). Blue irides were significantly more common in patients with EXS (19%) than in the possible EXS group (14%) and the controls (4%). EXS is common in Greek cataract patients and this study has identified a large group of patients who may be at an early stage of development of the condition. EXS may predispose to the development of cataract in Greek patients.
Visual acuity assessment of children with neurological impairment using grating and vanishing optotype acuity cards
Authors: Mackie R. T. , Saunders K. J. , Day R. E. , Dutton G. N. , McCulloch D. L.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. We have compared the testability and acuity thresholds achieved with vanishing optotype acuity cards and traditional grating acuity cards when used to examine children with neurological impairment. These children encompass a wide range of ages and abilities and it may be desirable to use the two types of cards for acuity assessment. Subjects were a diverse group of children (n = 91; 8 months – 19 years) whose learning ability ranged from normal to severe disability. There was no significant difference between the individual success rates for the two sets of cards (grating 91% (n = 61) vanishing optotype 89% (n = 59)). Over a wide range of acuities (0 to 2.0 LogMAR) the mean difference between acuity thresholds did not differ significantly from zero (p = 0.24). Ninetythree percent of acuity estimates agreed to within ± 0.50 LogMAR units. The results indicate that the two acuity tests could be used interchangeably in clinical populations of children with neurological impairment.
Traumatic wound dehiscence after penetrating keratoplasty
Authors: Rohrbach Jens Martin , Weidle Egon Georg , Steuhl Klaus Peter , Meilinger Sabine , Pleyer Uwe
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Background: Traumatic wound dehiscence after penetrating keratoplasty is probably underestimated.

Patients: From the files of the University Eye Hospital Tübingen (1981–1993), 15 patients with a traumatic wound dehiscence after penetrating keratoplasty were investigated.

Results: Latency between corneal grafting and wound rupture ranged from 1 month to 25 years (mean 6.2 years). Wound dehiscence was quite evenly distributed over the circle. Intraocular tissue was lost to a variable extent. Three eyes were primarily or secondarily enucleated. Seven eyes (47%) with an originally reduced but useful vision became blind or were removed. Most (67%) of the resutured grafts lost transparency.

Conclusions: Traumatic wound dehiscence is a serious and not very rare complication after penetrating keratoplasty. Functional results are poor.
Retinitis pigmentosa with recurrent vitreous hemorrhage
Authors: Nao‐i Nobuhisa , Fukiyama Jo , Sawada Atsushi
Published: May 2009

Abstract. We observed recurrent vitreous hemorrhage in two patients with retinitis pigmentosa: a 41‐year‐old female and a 49‐year‐old male. At age 41, the first patient had diffuse capillary dilatation, macular microaneurysms, and paramacular macroaneurysms in the right eye. At age 47, similar retinal vascular lesions and disc neovascularization developed in the left eye followed by recurrent vitreous hemorrhage. The retinal microvascular changes and vitreous hemorrhages subsided spontaneously during the ensuing 4 years. In the second case, recurrent vitreous hemorrhage developed in the right eye. Funduscopy and fluorescein angiography at age 49 revealed no angiopathy. However, 2 years later we detected retinal neovascularization in the macula and an avascularity in the peripheral retina in the right eye. Subretinal exudate or retinal detachment was consistently absent in both cases.
Dominant optic atrophy mapped to chromosome 3q region
Authors: Kjer Birgit , Eiberg Hans , Kjer Poul , Rosenberg Thomas
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Sixty‐two patients from three large Danish families with autosomal dominant optic atrophy were clinically examined, and retrospective follow‐up was made on 30 patients. We found great inter‐ and intrafamiliar variation in visual acuity and visual decline. Onehundred and seventy‐five chromosomal markers were analyzed in 118 family members. Linkage was demonstrated between the disease gene (OPA1) and the microsatellite markers D3S1314, D3S1262, D3S1265 and D3S1601, with the highest Lod score to D3S1601 Z = 11.75. All markers are located on chromosome 3q in the telomeric area, the most probable location for the OPA1 gene being D3S1601‐OPA1‐D3S1265. Using data from the Danish Family Register of Hereditary Eye Diseases, the minimum prevalence rate was estimated to 1:12.301, making DOA the most common hereditary optic atrophy.
Isolation and in vitro propagation of human choroidal fibroblasts
Authors: Klyve Per , Nicolaissen Bjørn , Næss Oddvar
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Subretinal ingrowth of choroidal fibroblasts is of importance in several clinical settings such as age‐related macular degeneration or after traumas such as laser treatment and infection. In the present investigation we describe a method for isolation and propagation of human choroidal fibroblasts in vitro. Outgrowth from the outseeded choroid was studied by means of phase contrast microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and by immunohistochemical methods. The secondary cultures were found to contain almost only fibroblasts (more than 95% of the cells), some contaminating retinal pigment cells were also found. Choroidal fibroblasts contribute to the fibrovascular subretinal scarring process, and our cell culturing system seems to be a suitable tool for studying factors regulating the behaviour of these cells in vitro.
Increased incidence of cataract extractions in women above 70 years of age
Authors: Carlsson Bo , Sjöstrand Johan
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT During 1987 and 1988 all patients undergoing a cataract extraction at the eye Clinic of Sahlgrenska University Hospital were registered to determine the yearly incidence of cataract extractions according to sex and age. We found that after the age of 70 years the incidence of cataract extractions was higher for females than males. This difference was most pronounced for operations of the first eye. In this case the relative risk to undergo a cataract extraction for a woman compared to a man was 1.71 with 95% confidence interval 1.51‐1.94, which showed a significantly increased risk. The preoperative VA of the best eye at the time of the first operation did not differ significantly between older men and women, indicating that women had no tendency to come earlier to operation. Our results show that after the age of 70 years the operation incidence of women is significantly higher than for men. This probably reflects a generally increased prevalence of various stages of cataract among females above 70 years in a Nordic population.
Changes of visual function and visual ability in daily life following cataract surgery
Authors: Abrahamsson M. , Carlsson B. , Törnqvist M. , Sterner B. , Sjöstrand J.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT We conducted a prospective study of 56 patients aged 70 to 79 years undergoing cataract surgery, in order to determine the impact of surgery on subjective and objective measurements of visual ability. In 46 cases we could obtain all necessary data. Binocular visual acuity, near vision and contrast sensitivity improved due to surgery. Self‐assessed ability to perform visually related tasks was examined in form of a questionnaire. The results show that there was no simple relationship between objective measurements and perceived visual ability. An impairment in preoperative visual acuity cannot be related to a specific loss of visual ability. In order to increase the quality of cataract surgery more subtly, subjective aspects of vision must be taken into consideration when operation is decided upon and in the evaluation of the results.
Three HLA‐A29 positive patients with uveitis
Authors: Bergink G. J. , Ooyman F. M. , Maas S. , Rademakers A. J. J. M.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT We evaluated the ocular symptomatology in 3 HLA‐A29 positive patients with uveitis. In two patients we saw bilateral flecked fundus lesions known as birdshot retinochoroidopathy. One patient with an idiopathic vasculitis had no depigmented fundus flecks. The differences and similarities in these 3 patients are described.
Recurrence of malignant melanoma after irradiation diagnosed by glucose‐fructose enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Thuomas Karl‐Åke , Landau Irene , Kock Erik , Naeser Peter
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Two patients who had been given ruthenium plaque treatment for uveal melanoma were MR examined due to suspected recurrence. Spin‐echo sequences were applied using a 1.5 T equipment. The examinations were performed in both patients two times with a 2‐h interval. Immediately after the first examination the patients were perorally given 20 g glucose and 10 g fructose. An increase of signal intensity (prolongation of the relaxation times) and size of the uveal lesions could be visualized by a subtraction technique in both patients after the carbohydrate loading. In agreement with our previous studies of malignant melanoma the changed metabolism in the uveal lesions indicated recurrence of the tumour. One eye was available for histological examination. The morphological difference between areas of recurring and degenerating tumour was clearly seen. Similar changes were not observed by ultrasound.
Isolation of functionally intact pig retina mitochondria
Authors: Schild L. , Westphal S. , Scheithauer S. , Holfeld M. , Augustin W. , Sabel B. A.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Two alternative methods for the isolation of functionally intact mitochondria from pig retina were evaluated by means of differential centrifugation. If ATP and bovine serum albumin were present during the isolation procedures mitochondria exhibited ADP sensitive respiration and membrane potentials, comparable to values from other tissues. The mitochondria fraction of both methods differed in purity, being almost free of synaptosomes when a discontinuous Ficoll gradient centrifugation was used.
Tear film and meibomian gland functions in psoriasis
Authors: Zengin Nazmi , Tol Hüseyin , Balevi Şükrü , Gündüz Kemal , Okudan Süleyman , Endoǧru Hüseyin
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Tear secretion, tear film stability, and meibomian gland function (plugging, volume, and thickness) were assessed in patients with psoriasis vulgaris (n = 70). As compared to that of the healthy controls (n = 125) mean Schirmer I value of psoriatic patients was found to be in normal ranges, whereas tear film break‐up time was significantly lowered. When evaluating meibomian gland function, psoriatic patients were found to have higher plugging and thickness indices but a normal volume of meibomian gland secretion. These findings suggested an obstructive type of meibomian gland dysfunction in psoriatic patients which might result from increased turnover of the epithelia lining the meibomian gland duct.
Differences in optic discs in low‐tension glaucoma patients with relatively low or high pressures
Authors: Wang Xiao‐hong , Stewart William C. , Jackson Galin J.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT We evaluated the differences in the optic nerve head in patients with chronic open‐angle glaucoma (HTG) and those with low‐tension glaucoma with either relatively high (between 16 and 21 mmHg [LTGH]) or low (≤ 15 mmHg [LTGL]) intraocular pressures. We included 36 patients in this study. We found that LTGL patients had a significantly greater mean area of peripapillary atrophy inferior to the optic disc (0.65 ± 0.38 mm2) than LTGH (0.40 ± 0.38 mm2) or HTG (0.34 ± 0.25 mm2) patients (p<0.005). No significant difference was found between groups for the area of the neural rim, optic disc, cup/pallor discrepancy, or peripapillary halo, or in the diameter of the largest artery or vein in the inferior and superior peripapillary area. This study raises the question of whether a separate mechanism of damage could exist at the optic disc in patients whose intraocular pressure is ≤ 15 mmHg because of a greater extent of peripapillary atrophy than in patients with higher intraocular pressures.
Modelling cortical cataractogenesis XVIII. In vitro diabetic cataract reduction by venoruton
Authors: Kilic Fusun , Bhardwaj Ratan , Trevithick John R.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The effect of a novel flavonoid, venoruton (a mixture of mono‐, di‐, tri‐ and tetrahydroxyethylrutosides) has been investigated in healthy rat lenses and compared with diabetic cataract modelled in vitro. One mM venoruton was added to medium simulating healthy and diabetic conditions for the incubated lenses; damage was followed by either stereoscopic photography of the lenses under a Cooperative Cataract Research Group operating microscope or with our recently developed method: the leakage of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) into the lens culture media. The increased LDH activity in the medium and observable development of the opacity were correlated with cell damage, which has been found to be associated with globular degeneration and cataract formation. The extent of opacification and LDH release is reduced if 1 mM venoruton is included in the medium. The protective effect may be related to antioxidant activity against reactive oxygen species: decreased luminol luminescence was shown after venoruton addition to either superoxide‐generating hypoxanthine plus xanthine oxidase, or hydrogen peroxide.
Current trends in newly registered blindness in Denmark
Authors: Rosenberg Thomas , Klie Flemming
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Current pattern of blindness (i.e. visual acuity ≤6/60) in Denmark was studied based on 1585 application forms for new membership to the Danish Society of the Blind during 1993. Statistics on blindness are very sensitive to the definitions used. A change of blindness definition to visual acuity <6/60 reduced the number of formally blind subjects with 32%, and by using the definition of WHO (visual acuity <3/60) only 562 subjects (35%) would have been considered blind. The prevailing causes of blindness were age‐related macular degeneration with 1132 cases (71.4%), followed by diabetic retinopathy 133 cases (8.4%), and glaucoma 80 cases (5.0%). Among the younger subjects (133 persons) aged 20–59 years diabetic retinopathy comprised 36% and lesions of the optic pathways 26%, while myopia and retinitis pigmentosa accounted for 5% each. The majority of the applicants (92%) were ≥ 60 years old. In this group, age‐related macular degeneration was the main cause of blindness in 78%. Figures from 1993 were compared with six similar studies on newly registered blindness from the last 35 years. The annual number of registrations was doubled during the last 25 years. The annual number of registered blind due to diabetic retinopathy fell during the 60's and 70's followed by a constant rate during the last decades. Glaucoma blindness fell with a factor two, and declined from a relative frequency of 15% among the causes of blindness to 5%. The impact of age related macular degeneration increased from 20% to 70% during the same period.
A descriptive study on Behçet's disease
Authors: Atmaca Leyla S. , İdil Aysun , Batioǧlu Figen
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT This study was performed in order to evaluate the age, sex, geographical distribution, ocular involvement, age of onset, and attacks in Behçet's disease. We examined 540 Behçet patients between 1973–1993. Of the patients, 453 were male and 87 female (m/f: 5.2/1). The average age was 30.7±0.35. The disease mostly appeared in the third decade and it was statistically significant that sex affected the age at onset of the initial symptoms. The onset of symptoms was more frequent among males in the 25–29‐year age group, and among females below 19 and above 35 years of age. The duration of the disease was 28.7±3.1 months. The state of ocular attacks were evaluated in 598 eyes of 303 patients who were followed regularly during the first year. The risk and frequency of attacks were greater in the eyes with poorer visual acuity, and in such eyes, the number of attacks was greater ≤ 24 while smaller ≥ 35 years of age.
The spectrum of herpes simplex virus disease of the anterior segment in the 1990s
Authors: Claoué Charles , De Cock Roman
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT We have sampled our clinic population in order to ascertain the proportion with herpetic eye disease of the anterior segment. The age, gender predominance, and incidence of bilateral disease amongst such patients has not changed over the past 20 years. The predominant disease type was stromal keratitis, with significant morbidity and visual handicap. Herpetic eye disease of the anterior segment utilizes only 1% of out‐patient clinic resources overall, but 17% of specialist external disease clinic time. There was a statistically significant correlation between total length of follow‐up and reduced visual acuity. It would seem that the prevalence of herpetic eye disease of the anterior segment appears to have halved since comparable reports were published. In addition, the prognosis of the disease, in terms of the prevalence of visual impairment, has worsened.
Progression of retinopathy is related to glycaemic control even in patients with mild diabetes mellitus
Authors: Henricsson Marianne , Groop Leif , Heijl Anders
Published: May 2009

Abstract. To study the progression of retinopathy in patients with mild diabetes mellitus, we examined, in a cohort study, 347 patients treated with diet alone at baseline. The patients participated in an ophthalmological screening and control programme, and diet‐treated patients who were examined between January 1990 and July 1992 were included in the study and followed until October 1995. Mean follow‐up time was 3.4 ± 1.1 years. The alternative classification of the Wisconsin study was used to classify retinopathy, and the mean HbA1c values for the study period, to estimate the level of glycaemic control. At baseline, 314 of the patients (90.5%) had no retinopathy, and 33 (9.5%) had mild non‐pro‐liferative diabetic retinopathy. In 296 patients there was no retinopathy progression, in 27 patients there was progression by 1 level in the retinopathy scale, and in 24 patients by 2 levels or more. In 2 patients there was progression to proliferative diabetic retinopathy. The mean HbA1c (%) was 6.5 ± 1.3. Higher HbA1c correlated to increased progression (r = 0.16; p = 0.005), and in a multivariate analysis, HbA1c remained associated with a progression of retinopathy by 2 levels or more, with a relative risk of 1.4 per percent increase in HbA1c (95% C1 1.1–2.0; p = 0.02). Furthermore, the presence of any retinopathy at baseline was associated with progression with a relative risk of 1.7 (95% confidence interval 1.1–2.8; p = 0.02). These data indicate that even slightly elevated levels of HbA1c might be associated with a risk of retinopathy progression.
Correlation of lens thickness with blood glucose control in diabetes mellitus
Authors: Pierro L. , Brancato R. , Zaganelli E. , Guarisco L. , Calori G.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The aim of this study was to verify if lens thickness in insulin‐dependent diabetic patients is greater than in non‐diabetics, and to establish which parameters affect the thickness of the lens age, diabetes duration, glycaemic control, insulin dose. Ultrasound biometry and blood glucose measurements were taken in 87 patients three times a day: fasting 2 and 4 h after lunch. The patient sample was divided into three groups: 30 with no retinopathy, 30 presented background retinopathy and 27 with proliferative retinopathy; 30 normal subjects with a similar age to the diabetic group, comprised the control group. No correlation was found between biometric values and blood glucose in the three groups (p>0.05). A significant difference in lens thickness was found in the four groups, even after adjusting for age (p < 0.05). Significant differences in lens thickness were seen between proliferative retinopathy and the other groups, after adjusting for age and duration of diabetes (p<0.05); lens thickness was shown to correlate with diabetes duration (p < 0.05).
Structural evidence for membrane lipid changes in human cataract
Authors: Feher Janos , Recupero Santi Maria , Abdolrahimzadeh Solmaz , Balacco‐Gabrieli Corrado
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Lipid changes in relationship to cataractogenesis were studied with histochemical methods (topoptical reactions) of polarization microscopy. Frozen sections of formaldehyde‐fixed human lenses were used for these studies. Six lenses were transparent and 14 lenses presented early to confluent cortical opacities. Cell membrane lipids of transparent lenses showed 8.0 ± 2.7 nm light retardation. In the early cataractous lenses the light retardation of cell membranes was 23.3 ± 5.0 nm and that of the fusiform and globular lipids was 37.7 ± 4.0 nm and 48.5 ± 6.9 nm, respectively. In the non transparent cortical regions of cataractous lenses, membrane lipids were not observed. Similar to other cell membranes, normal lens membranes are composed of loosely organized lipids. In early cataract lipid density uniformly increased along the cell membranes at the clinically transparent areas, while at the areas with clinically evident fine opacities, small fusiform and globuler lipid drops were formed by even more dense lipids. Confluent cortical cataracts were associated with disappearance of membrane lipids. In our study our findings demonstrated intramembrane lipid changes associated with cataractogenesis.
Ocular findings in the Laurence‐Moon‐Bardet‐Biedl syndrome
Authors: Riise Ruth , Andréasson Sten , Wright Alan F. , Tornqvist Kristina
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Purpose: To improve the description of the ocular part of the Laurence‐Moon‐Bardet‐Biedl syndrome.

Methods: We examined 44 Scandinavian individuals who all had retinal dystrophy plus at least 2 more of the traditional cardinal signs of the syndrome: obesity, hypogenitalism, polydactyly and mental retardation.

Results: Full‐field electroretinograms were obtained in 36 of the individuals and were abnormal in all. The dark adaptation thresholds were elevated by on average 3.5 log units. Symptoms of night blindness were observed at a mean age of 4 years and visual problems at daytime at 6–7 years. No one exceeding the age of 16 had a best corrected visual acuity of more than 0.1. In the fundus attenuated vessels were noted at all ages while macular pigmentations and a wax‐pale optic disc appeared at age 6–7 years. Pigmentary changes in the midperiphery were noted at the earliest at 13 years of age and appeared mainly as bone spicules, however, in a minority of cases the pigmentations were atypical. Ten of the participants had been followed through a period of 9 years. Their visual acuity was reduced by on average 0.3 line (decimals) and the angle of visual fields by approximate 3 degrees (Goldmann standard object V: 4e) per year through the adolescence.

Conclusion: The ocular disease in Laurence‐Moon‐Bardet‐Biedl syndrome presents early, the prognosis for visual function is poor and the fundus features are atypical and varying.
Ocular characteristics in Nephropathia epidemica or Puumala virus infection
Authors: Kontkanen Matti , Puustjärvi Tuomo , Kauppi Paula , Lähdevirta Juhani
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Purpose: We document the largest series so far concerning the ocular characteristics of nephropathia epidemica.

Methods: A total of 37 consecutive nephropathia epidemica patients underwent a comprehensive ophthalmic examination during hospitalization for systemic infection, and a control examination after recovery.

Results: The most common ocular symptoms were: frontal headache or periocular pain (75.6%), blurred vision (54.1%) and photophobia (10.8%). The best corrected visual acuity of 7 patients (18.9%) was reduced during the acute phase as compared to the later control examination. Myopic shift was found in 15 patients (40.5%), three of whom (8.1%) developed real transient myopia. There were no attacks of angle closure glaucoma in this series. On the contrary, the intraocular pressure was decreased in 49 eyes (66.2%) during the acute stage of the disease. Lid edema was present in 28 eyes (37.8%), conjunctival injection in 20 eyes (27.0%), chemosis in 8 eyes (10.8%) and subconjunctival bleeding in 3 eyes (4.1%). Signs of acute anterior uveitis were found in 10 eyes (13.5%), however, this resolved without treatment. In one eye retinal edema with hemorrhages was detected. Ultrasonography revealed narrowing of the anterior chamber during the acute phase in 69 eyes (93.2%) and thickening of the crystalline lens in 64 eyes (86.5%).

Conclusion: Ophthalmic findings in nephropathia epidemica are not uncommon. The symmetry of the clinical manifestations reflects the systemic nature of the underlying infection.
A comparison of Healon and Amvisc on the early postoperative pressure after extracapsular cataract extraction with implantation of posterior chamber lens
Authors: Anmarkrud Nils , Bergaust Bjørn , Bulie Tore
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Two viscoelastic agents, Healon and Amvisc, both hyaluronic acids, were evaluated in two prospective, randomized and masked studies in order to compare the effect of the viscoelastics and timolol (Blocadren) on the early postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) after planned extracapsular cataract extraction with implantation of a posterior chamber lens. The study protocols were similar, especially with regard to the sample size, pre‐, per‐ and postoperative management and sampling. The IOP was measured preoperatively, 3–6 and 24 h postoperatively. The testing of Amvisc revealed that aspiration or non‐aspiration of Amvisc at the end of surgery was of little importance for the IOP, and that timolol significantly reduced the IOP 3–6 h postoperatively in the order of about 8 mmHg. The postoperative IOP was lower for Amvisc than for Healon only when the viscoelastic material was aspirated and topical timolol was administered. In all the other groups there were no significant differences between the viscoelastics as far as the postoperative pressure was concerned. Multiple regression revealed a marked pressure reducing effect of timolol 3–6 h postoperatively in both groups, but no effect was observed 24 h postoperatively. The two viscoelastic agents showed minor effect on the IOP both 3–6 and 24 h postoperatively.
Fluence and mutagenic side effects of excimer laser radiation applied in ophthalmology in human lymphocytes in vitro
Authors: Förster Werner , Scheid Wolfgang , Weber Jürgen , Schürenberg Martin , Traut Horst , Busse Holger
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Purpose: To investigate the influence of different fluences in 193 and 248 nm excimer laser radiation on the yields of chromatid and chromosome aberrations induced in human lymphocytes in vitro.

Method: Heparinized human blood was exposed to 193 or 248 nm excimer laser radiation. The fluence was gradually increased from 21 to 400 mJ/cm2 in 193 nm (constant total energy of 250 J) and from 150 to 377 mJ/cm2 in 248 nm radiation (constant total energy of 500 J). Chromatid and chromosome aberrations were then analysed microscopically.

Results: The yields of chromatid breaks and achromatic lesions depend on the fluence per pulse. This dependence contains a linear component, indicating a threshold of about 70 mJ/cm2 fluence in 193 nm and of about 250 mJ/cm2 fluence in 248 nm laser radiation. An increase of the yield of dicentric chromosomes could only be observed at the highest fluence tested (377 mJ/cm2) in the 248 nm series. Over 126 mJ/cm2 in 193 nm radiation no lymphocytes could be cultured and therefore no aberrations could be found.

Conclusions: Our findings show that the fluence of 193 nm and of 248 nm excimer laser radiation has an effect on the yields of chromatid breaks and achromatic lesions in human lymphocytes under in vitro conditions.
The corneal endothelium 12 months after photorefractive keratectomy in high myopia
Authors: Cennamo G. , Rosa N. , Del Prete A. , Breve M.A. , Sebastiani A.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Purpose: To determine if photorefractive keratectomy with a 193 nm excimer laser could cause human corneal endothelial changes, mainly in high dioptric treatments.

Methods: 18 patients underwent a treatment ranging from 7 to 13 diopters at the corneal apex (mean 10.3 ± 1.4 SD) with an estimated corneal thinning ranging from 62 to 116 microns (mean 90.7 ± 12 SD). In these patients a comparison between the number and shape of the corneal endothelial cells has been performed before and 12 months after PRK.

Results: The mean cell density was 2818 ± 337 mm2, before surgery, and 2894 ± 301 mm2 after 12 months. The polymorphic index was 79.0 ± 2.3, before surgery, and 81.0 ± 5.0 after 12 months with no significant changes (p = 0.16 and P = 0.09, respectively).

Conclusions: These results show that photorefractive keratectomy does not cause any significant observable damage to the central corneal endothelium up to 12 months after surgery, even in high myopic treatments.
Tear fluid plasmin activity of dry eye patients with Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Virtanen Tuula , Konttinen Yrjö T. , Honkanen Niina , Härkönen Matti , Tervo Timo
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Thirty‐two eyes of 16 patients with verified Sjögren's syndrome were examined for clinical signs of dry eye. Tear fluid samples were collected for plasmin assay. Ophthalmologic examinations included estimation of conjunctival or corneal discharge, filament formation and presence of conjunctival or corneal epithelial defects, assessment of tear meniscus height and measurement of tear fluid break‐up time, Schirmer test, and fluorescein and Rose‐Bengal staining graded by the van Bijsterveld score. Tear fluid plasmin activity (IU/l) was determined by a fluorometric assay and tear fluid flow (μl/min) was measured for calculation of tear fluid plasmin activity release (μIU/min). All patients had relatively dry eyes; the mean Schirmer test value was 5.7 ± 0.5 mm/5 min. The mean tear fluid break‐up time was also low, 7.7 ± 0.5 s. The mean Bijsterveld score value was 2.5 ± 0.5. Because collection of tear fluid by microcapillaries for the plasmin assay was difficult due to the low tear fluid flow rate, it was necessary to drop 20 μl of balanced salt solution topically on the cornea to aspirate a tear fluid sample. Despite this, the mean tear fluid plasmin activity was higher than in control individuals (7.75 ± 1.51 IU/l vs. 0.73, range 0.64–0.80 IU/l). On the basis of these findings we conclude that elevated tear fluid proteolytic activity may play a role in the pathology of dry eye/ocular surface disease.