bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visual impairment in Nordic children
Authors: Rudanko S‐L. , Flage T. , Hansen E. , Rosenberg T. , Viggosson G. , Riise R.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. In a study on 2,527 visually impaired children from four Nordic countries X‐linked juvenile retinoschisis was diagnosed in 35 male children. Striking differences in frequency between the four countries were found, with 26 cases reported from Finland, 5 cases from Denmark, and 4 cases from Norway. None was reported from Iccland. The corresponding age and sex‐specific prevalence rates of X‐linked juvenile retinoschisis (N:1 000 000) were 44.5 in Finland, 8.8 in Denmark, and 7.9 in Norway. The uneven geographical distribution is possibly attributed to a ‘founder effect’ due to the settlements in Finland by European immigrants in the 17th century. The visual impairment of the registered cases was usually mild with 91.4% falling into WHO category 1. However, one child was totally blind, demonstrating large phenotypic heterogeneity. None of our cases had additional impairments. The majority were more than five years old, indicating a progressive course during childhood. Nevertheless, two children were diagnosed at the age of one. The most common age at registration was seven years, coinciding with the beginning of school attendance.
Increased lenticular aldose reductase activity and high incidence of congenital cataract in the offspring of diabetic rats
Authors: Simán C. Martin , Naeser Peter , Eriksson Ulf J.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. In previous experimental studies we have found a 47% incidence of congenital cataracts among the fetuses of manifestly diabetic (MD) rats, and 4% of the offspring of normal (N) rats. The aim of the present study was to clarify the role of the sorbital shunt in the pathogenesis of this congenital defect. Light microscopical evaluation of the fetal lenses revealed excessive formation of vacuoles in offspring of MD rats compared to N offspring. On gestational day 16 we found that aldose reductase (AR) activity was doubled in the lenses of fetuses of MD rats as compared to that of N fetuses. This difference as well as the net activity of AR declined in both groups during subsequent development. The sorbitol concentration was elevated more than ten‐fold in the MD fetal lenses compared to N fetal lenses at all time points. The sorbitol concentration in both the MD and the N group decreased from day 16 to day 20 and increased again slightly on day 22. We conclude that the diabetic uterine milieu induces elevated AR activity and sorbitol formation in the fetal lens. This over‐activity of the sorbitol shunt may produce metabolic and osmotic imbalances in the fetal lens, resulting in excessive vacuole formation and subsequent development of congenital cataract.
Visual functions in a Swedish population of dyslexic and normally reading children
Authors: Ygge Jan , Lennerstrand Gunnar , Axelsson Ingvar , Rydberg Agneta
Published: May 2009

Abstract Eighty‐six 9‐year old dyslexic children were carefully matched to controls with regard to age, sex, class in school, and intelligence and thorough visual functions tests and eye examinations were performed. As a group the dyslexic pupils exhibited a lower distance as well as near visual acuity both with monocular and binocular viewing. Furthermore, the dyslexic pupils had a lower contrast sensitivity at the lower and higher spatial frequencies. These differences were all statistically significant. However, no statistically significant differences between the two groups could be observed regarding refractive errors or contrast sensitivity in the middle spatial frequency range. Although some eyes were amblyopic, any severe eye anomalies or diseases were not found in any of the investigated children.
Oculomotor functions in a Swedish population of dyslexic and normally reading children
Authors: Ygge Jan , Lennerstrand Gunnar , Rydberg Agneta , Wijecoon Srima , Pettersson Britt‐Marie
Published: May 2009

Abstract Eighty‐six nine‐year‐old dyslexic children were matched to control children with regard to age, sex, class in school, and intelligence. Orthoptic and eye movement analysis were performed on all children. It was concluded that the dyslexic pupils did not differ significantly from control children in terms of strabismus, accommodation, stereo acuity, vergence function or ocular dominance. Eye movement recordings did not show any qualitative differences between the groups in vergence dynamics during synoptophore investigations.
The prevalence of diabetic retinopathy in Northwest Spain
Authors: Fernandez‐Vigo J. , Macho J. Sanchez , Rey A. Diaz , Barros J. , Tome M. , Bueno J.
Published: May 2009

Abstract The prevalence of retinopathy was studied in a group of 1179 diabetic patients attending 11 diabetologic centres in Gallica (Northwest of Spain). The age of the patients was 61.7 ± 13,8 years, 43.8% were males and 56.2% females. The patients had had diabetes from 8.4 ± 7.5 years, 30.4% were being treated with insulin, and 69.6% with oral antihyperglycaemics. 16.1% were aged under 40 years at onset as against 83.9% aged over 40 years. The prevalence of retinopathy was 44.7. in the whole group. Stepwise multiple regression analysis identified treatment time since onset and age at onset as the factors affecting prevalence, which was 61.8% in the insulin‐treated subgroup vs 37% among those treated with oral antihyperglycaemics (p < 0.0001). The prevalence of proliferative diabetic retinopathy was 5.8% in the whole group.
Interferon alpha‐2a treatment of patients with subfoveal neovascular macular degeneration
Authors: Engler Claus B. , Sander Birgit , Koefoed Pernille , Larsen Michael , Vinding Troels , Lund‐Andersen Henrik
Published: May 2009

Abstract It has recently been suggested that interferon alpha‐2a has a beneficial effect on exudative age‐related macular degeneration (AMD). So far, results are controversial, and masked, placebo controlled, randomized studies with well‐defined inclusion criteria are required to assess the effect of interferon alpha‐2a. In preparation for such a study we performed a pilot investigation that included 5 patients with subfoveal neovascularizations. All patients received interferon alpha‐2a (Roferon‐A, Hoffmann La‐Roche) 1.5 mio, IU subcutaneously every second day for 8 weeks. Improved visual acuity was subjectively observed by 4 patients and objectively by 3 patients. Two patients showed decreased central visual field defect. Fluorescein angiography and fundus photography showed ambiguous changes. Amsler chart and contrast sensitivity also showed heterogenous results. Even though the treatment with interferon alpha‐2a may show some positive effect, our results are not unequivocal and serve to underline the need for controlled studies before the effect of interferon alpha‐2a on neovascular AMD can be reliably assessed.
Cell kinetics of normal and healing rat corneal epithelium during organ culture
Authors: Hjortdal Jesper Ø. , Haaskjold Erling , Sørensen Knud Erik , Bjerknes Rolf
Published: May 2009

Abstract Local epithelial proliferation in corneal, limbal, and conjunctival rat epithelium was investigated during organ culture of corneo‐scleral shells, by relating the number of tritium labelled cells to the total number of cells (labelling index). The changes in labelling index after a mechanically induced central corneal abrasion were also studied. Local labelling indices were measured 2 h, 1, 2, 4 and 7 days after incubation. The average labelling index increased in un‐abraded specimens 4‐fold after 4 days of incubation, while the total number of cells only decreased 30–50%. In eyes with a central corneal abrasion the labelling index increased 10‐fold in the surrounding epithelial cells after 1 day. The labelling index of the limbal and conjunctival epithelial cells increased to the same extent after 2 days of incubation. The finding of a reduced total number of cells and an increased cell proliferation in un‐abraded eyes may be explained by increased loss of mature cells normally producing growth‐inhibitory substances (chalones). Alternatively, the culture medium may contain an excess of growth‐stimulatory substances. The results also suggest that the proliferative response spreads in a centrifugal direction during in vitro healing of a central corneal abrasion.
Nedocromil sodium and astemizole, alone or combined, in the treatment of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis
Authors: Miglior M. , Scullica L. , Secchi A. G. , Negrini A. , Pezzi P. Pivetti , Brovarone F. Vitale , Bonini S. , Ruggieri M. L. , Vargiu G.
Published: May 2009

Abstract Two hundred and seven patients with active symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis were studied in a four‐week multicentre double blind, double dummy, clinical trial comparing efficacy and safety of nedocromil sodium eye drops with oral astemizole, placebo, and the combined active treatments. Clinical signs were evaluated by clinicians after 1, 2 and 4 weeks, while symptoms were recorded by patients on daily diary cards. Overall opinions were recorded at the end of treatment. Nedocromil sodium eye drops and astemizole, alone or combined, significantly reduced ocular symptoms when compared to placebo (diary card total symptom score and patients' opinion). In the clinicians' opinion nedocromil sodium alone or combined (but not astemizole alone) significantly decreased ocular symptoms when compared to placebo. All treatments were safe and well tolerated, drowsiness being the most frequent side effect observed in patients treated with astemizole. These results indicate the effectiveness of nedocromil sodium eye drops in the treatment of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis.
IOL power mislabelling
Authors: Olsen Thomas , Olesen Henrik
Published: May 2009

Abstract Prompted by four cases of IOL power mislabelling, a method was developed which allowed the measurement of the IOL power using a keratometer. The principle of operation was to measure the curvature of the steepest surface of the IOL through a minus lens by which the size of the mires was brought into the measuring range of the keratometer. With this method the IOL power was checked in three random IOL samples from three companies. Although no large errors in IOL power labelling were encountered in these samples, the error of labelling was found to differ significantly between the companies. It was concluded, that poor manufacturing control of IOL power may add to the sources of error in IOL power prediction.
Tonometry in the general practice setting (II):
Authors: Christoffersen Terje , Holtedahl Knut , Fors Terese , Ringberg Unni
Published: May 2009

Abstract A tonometry study comparing Tono‐Pen with Goldmann applanation tonometry in a general practice setting revealed four cases of ocular hypertension in 132 patients. Two of the 4 patients required further ophthalmological care after referral. None of these patients, but 4 patients with no ocular hypertension, would have been referred for follow‐up if referral had been made on the basis of the single reading made by the general practitioner. Tonometry readings are subject to considerable random variation, and the implications for a cut‐off policy in general practice is discussed. Associations between ocular hypertension and known risk factors are weak and offer limited help in selecting asymptomatic patients for measurement. Systematic screening should not be a routine. The cut‐off point should be kept low to avoid false reassurance of glaucoma patients, possibly as low as 17 mmHg. Multiple measurements may limit the number of referrals if the readings remain low.
Computer‐assisted instruction in emergency ophthalmological care
Authors: Lönwe Bo LönewBo , Heijl Anders
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The use of computer‐assisted instruction in medical education has increased steadily in the last decade with the availability of personal computers Many computer‐assisted instruction programs train the user to handle various forms of disease or injury Our intent was to provide medical students with more experience in managing ophthalmological emergencies, and we therefore designed a computerized teaching system for emergency ophthalmological care The system makes it possible for inexperienced students to develop these skills, without jeopardizing the patient̂s health during training Colour illustrations help teach the student to judge clinical signs First, two classes of altogether 35 students used the teaching system The students were shown to have gained significantly better knowledge of conditions which had been presented to them by the computerized teaching, than of conditions which had not been presented in this way After having used the system, two other classes were asked about their attitudes towards this teaching modality A majority regarded it as a valuable or very valuable addition to traditional methods of teaching This type of instruction system may improve the quality of ophthalmic teaching without increasing teaching staff requirements
Effect of bicycle ergometer test on intraocular pressure in elderly athletes and controls
Authors: Era Pertti , Pärssinen Olavi , Kallinen Mauri , Suominen Harri
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT To evaluate the effect of intensive physical exercise on intraocular pressure (IOP) in 66‐ to 85‐year‐old subjects IOP was measured before and after a maximal bicycle ergometer test The non‐glaucomatous subjects comprised 85 male and 36 female athletes and 16 male and 22 female controls of corresponding age drawn from a population register IOP was measured using a non‐contact tonometer The results indicated a decrease ( 2 mmHg) in 34% of the subjects, no change in 57% and an increase in 9% The decrease was more pronounced in subjects with higher pre‐test values In all four subjects with a pre‐test value above 22 mmHg a reduction from 4 to 11 mmHg was observed The change in IOP during physical loading was not significantly associated with the intensity and duration of the exercise test Three of the 5 male subjects with diagnosed glaucoma and undergoing hypotensive medication, who were analyzed separately, also showed a reduction in IOP during loading In the pre‐ or post‐test values there were no differences between the athletes and controls, while women tended to have higher IOP values than men It is concluded that physical loading has predominantly a moderating effect, if any, on IOP in elderly men and women
The effect of hyperbaric oxygen breathing on the visual field in glaucoma
Authors: Bojić Lovre , Raĉiĉ Goran , Goŝović Stracimir , Kovaĉević Hasan
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Following the hypothesis that chronic ischemia is the main cause of functional deficiency in glaucoma, a double blind clinical experiment was carried out to study the effect of hyperbaric oxygenation in 51 glaucoma subjects, of which 31 were in the experimental group and 20 in the control group In the experimental group there was a significant improvement of visual fields (p<005), whereas there was no change in the subjects in the control group Hyperbaric oxygen did not have any influence on intraocular pressure The achieved visual field improvements remained stable for 3 months (p<005), except for I3 and I4 isopters of the left eye and I4 isopter of the right eye, while they were considerably reduced after 6 months (p > 005)
Properties of high‐pass resolution perimetry targets
Authors: Frisén L , Nikolajeff F
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Relationships between high‐pass resolution perimetry ring targets and conventional perimetry and acuity targets were explored by optical analytical techniques and by comparative measurements in normal humans High‐pass resolution and acuity targets produced closely proportional resolution measurements, showing that the critical ring detail is the width of the bright core High‐pass resolution and conventional perimetry thresholds were not equally well correlated From a purely optical point of view, high‐pass resolution targets appeared to lose somewhat more contrast on defocusing On the other hand, high‐pass resolution appears to show less variability in practical, clinical use
Refractive results after phacoemulsification and ECCE
Authors: Dam‐Johansen Mikael , Olsen Thomas
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The refractive results were evaluated in 79 patients undergoing cataract extraction by phacoemulsification using a 6–7 nun tunnel incision, and compared with a group of 77 patients undergoing planned extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) by the same surgeon A mean increase in the keratometric cylinder of 005 D and 052 D was found in the phacoemulsification and the extracapsular cataract extraction group, respectively This was significantly different from zero for the extracapsular cataract extraction group (p<005) but not for the phacoemulsification group (p>005) By vector analysis, the mean surgically induced astigmatism was 091D and 136D in the phacoemulsification and the extracapsular cataract extraction group, respectively (p<001) The IOL power prediction error (spectacle plane) was found to be 017D (±069SD) in the phacoemulsification group and 002D (±079SD) in the extracapsular cataract extraction group, respectively We conclude that phacoemulsification improves the surgical control bf the refractive outcome of cataract surgery
Autoflourescence in cataractous human lens and its relationship to light scatter
Authors: Siik Seppo , Airaksinen P Juhani , Tuulonen Anja , Nieminen Heikki
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The autofluorescence profile of the lens was measured from 84 eyes of 84 patients with cortical, nuclear, posterior subcapsular, or mixed lens opacities Measurements were performed with a fluorometer in the blue‐green autofluorescence range (495 nm/520 nm). The mean maximum autofluorescence value differed in every cataract group statistically significantly from that of the age matched controls (p0.0058). The highest autofluorescence values were measured in nuclear and mixed cataract groups (p<0.0001) with high and narrow autofluorescence profile. In cortical cataracts the curve was low and flattened and the mean maximum autofluorescence value was lower than in the control eyes (p<0.0001). The maximum autofluorescence was related to lens coloration as well as to visual acuity only in nuclear cataract. The regression between maximum autofluorescence and light scatter was statistically significant only in the nuclear cataract group (p=0.0004). Since the autofluorescence profiles differed not only in height but also in width between the cataract groups, various width/maximum autofluorescence ratios were measured. In nuclear and mixed cataract groups the ratio 75% width/maximum autofluorescence was statistically significantly lower tfian in other groups (p<0.0001). In cortical cataracts the ratio (50% width ‐ 75% width)/maximum autofluorescence was statistically significantly higher than in other groups (p<0.0001).
Results of Crawford tube intubation in children
Authors: Beigi Bijan , O'Keefe Michael
Published: May 2009

Abstract Between 1987–1991 we inserted Crawford tubes in the nasolacrimal system in 24 children with recurrent epiphora following unsuccessful probing. Twenty‐two are free of epiphora and discharge from 6 months to 4 years after the removal of tubes and 2 children show no improvement. Apart from mild epistaxis at the time of the tube insertion and tube displacement within 2 weeks of insertion in 3 children, we report no other complications.
Clinicopathology of a case with retinopathy of pancreatitis
Authors: Holló Gábor , Bobek Ilona
Published: May 2009

Abstract Bilateral retinopathy of pancreatitis developed in a 36‐year‐old male patient during recurrent acute necrotizing pancreatitis. The retinopathy remained clinically unchanged between the detection and the death 6 days later. Characteristics of the retinal lesions were histologically similar to cotton‐wool spots of other origin, but all the retinal vessels including vessels around and in the cotton‐wool spots were intact and contained plasma and red blood cells. Absence of vascular occlusion and endothelial damage suggets that in acute pancreatitis vascular embolisation in the retina is not necessary to the development of cotton‐wool patches.
The comparative analysis of optic disc damage in exfoliative glaucoma
Authors: Tezel Gülgün , Tezel Tongalp H.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. To compare the initial and follow‐up discernible glaucomatous neuroretinal rim (NRR) and parapapillary chorioretinal changes in patients with primary open‐angle glaucoma (POAG) and exfoliative glaucoma (EG), we analyzed 40 optic discs from 40 patients with POAG, 40 optic discs from 40 patients with EG and 20 optic discs from 20 normal subjects. The mean intraocular pressure was higher in the EG group when compared with POAG (p < 0.001). Although the mean disc areas in both groups were not significantly different, the mean intial NRR area to disc area ratio was significantly smaller in patients with EG (p < 0.001). At the initial diagnosis the most prominent NRR defects of the patients with POAG were at the inferotemporal and superotemporal sectors, followed by the temporal and nasal sectors. However, the NRR in the EG group was noticed to decrease diffusely without such a sectorial preference. There was no significant difference between the mean loss of the NRR to disc area ratio in both groups at the end of the follow‐up period of 1 year (p < 0.05). The values of parapapillary chorioretinal atrophy areas in POAG and EG patients were not significantly different from each other, neither at the initial examination nor during the follow‐up period (p < 0.05). Those results suggest that high intraocular pressure in eyes with EG may constitute a major risk for rapid and progressive glaucomatous optic disc damage.
Retrobular anaesthesia A clinical evaluation of four different anaesthetic mixtures
Authors: Johansen Johnny , Kjeldgård Michael , Corydon Leif
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Onehundred and thirty‐nine consecutive cases of retrobulbar blocks were evaluated concerning clinical effect on motility and pain. The patients were randomly selected to one of four different mixtures of anaesthetics. A mixture containing lidocaine w/adrenaline, bupivacaine w/adrenaline and hyaluronidase was shown to be significantly more effective than any of the other tested mixtures concerning analgesia and significantly better than mixtures without hyaluronidase concerning motility/akinesia.
Dark focus of accommodation in children with accommodative esotropia and hyperopic anisometropia
Authors: Miwa Takashi , Tokoro Takashi
Published: May 2009

Abstract. We evaluated the dark focus of accommodation, referred to as tonic accommodation, in 60 young hyperopic subjects, 20 with and 20 without accommodative esotropia, and 20 with hyperopic anisometropia. We measured the distance, dark, and cycloplegic refractive errors by the Nidek Autorefractometer AR1600. The difference between dark and cycloplegic refractive errors was defined as the dark focus. The dark focus was significantly larger in esotropic eyes than in non‐esotropic eyes, despite similar cycloplegic refractive errors in both types of eyes, suggesting that tonic accommodation may be associated with ocular position. The dark focus was similar in eyes of the same subjects with hyperopic anisometropia and also in normal and amblyopic eyes, suggesting that tonic accommodation is similar in both eyes in subjects with anisometropia and amblyopia.
The influence of vitamins and trace element supplements on the stability of the pre‐corneal tear film
Authors: Patel S. , Plaskow J. , Ferrier C.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The tear stability af 60 normal healthy subjects was measured and repeated 10 days later. Using a double‐blind protocol, during the interim period 2/3 of the subjects (the treatment groups) took a commercially available daily dietary supplement and the remaining 1/3 acted as controls. The recommended daily dose was applied to the treatment groups. 20 of the treatment group took a daily dietary supplement of a mixture consisting of vitamins (e.g. A, B1, B2, B6, E) and trace elements (e.g. calsium, iron, manganese), the other 20 took purely vitamin C tablets. The tear stability of both treated groups increased, however, the multi‐vitamin and trace element group demonstrated the more consistent and individually predictable improvement. Within this group, the characteristics of the regression line correlating the initial mean (x) and final mean (y) tear stabilities were, y = 5.94+1.02x. The tear stability of the control group individuals did not significantly change.
Nebulae at keratoconus ‐ the result after excimer laser removal
Authors: Fagerholm Per , Fitzsimmons Thomas , Öhman Lena , Örndahl Mats
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Ten patients underwent excimer laser ablation due to nebula formation at keratoconus. The nebulae interfered significantly with contact lens fit or wearing time. The mean follow‐up time in these patients was 16.5 months. Following surgery all patients could be successfully fitted with a contact lens and thereby obtain good visual acuity. Furthermore, contact lens wearing time was 8 hours or more in all cases. In 2 patients the nebulae recurred but were successfully retreated.
Serum sialic acid levels in patients with sympathetic ophthalmitis
Authors: Lamba P. A. , Pandey P. K. , Sarin G. S. , Mathur M. D.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Serum sialic acid levels were measured in 16 patients with sympathetic ophthalmitis, 36 with neglected traumatic uveitis following penetrating injury and 40 healthy subjects. There was no significant alteration of its level in patients with traumatic uveitis. However, its level was significantly elevated in patients with sympathetic ophthalmitis. It was high even in the early stage of the disease. It decreased significantly at the remission stage. It is proposed that measurement of sialic acid level in serum can be used as a diagnostic aid when the diagnosis of sympathetic ophthalmitis remains doubtful on clinical grounds. The extent of rise in its level may be considered a good parameter of the degree of severity of sympathetic ophthalmitis. It may also act as a useful tool to evaluate the drug efficacy in this disease.
PUVA treatment and choroidal malignant melanoma
Authors: Haciyakupoǧlu Gülhanim , Varinli Ilter , Memisoĝlu Hamdi R. , Varinli Seyhan , Demircan Nihal , Denli Gul
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Choroidal malign melanoma showing rapid progression in a boy 17 years old is presented. The patient was under therapy with methoxy psoralen + Ultraviolet A (PUVA)* for psoriasis vulgaris. He had undergone complete ophthalmologic examinations with three‐month intervals from the beginning of this therapy. The tumor was detected in the seventh month, rapidly enlarging within the next twenty days, and eventually leading to enucleation. PUVA is known to be a risk factor for cutaneous malign melanoma. However, there is no reported incidence of choroidal malign melanoma in PUVA treated patients. To our knowledge, this is the only case showing the possible role of PUVA therapy as a predisposing factor in the development of uveal malign melanoma.
Rapid diagnosis of herpetic keratitis using direct immunoperoxidase technique
Authors: Kalayci Defne , Eryilmaz Teksin
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The direct immunoperoxidase technique was tested for diagnosis of herpetic keratitis. The technique was performed on corneal epitehlial specimens from 28 herpetic keratitis cases and 12 controls. Ulcers were stained with rose bengal or fluorescein and examined at the slit‐lamp biomicroscope to differentiate between herpetic and nonherpetic etiology. Scrapings obtained from the corneal epithelial ulcers were stained with direct immunoperoxidase technique. The whole procedure, including staining and examination of the slides, took a total of 70 min. The test proved to be accurate, easy to perform and to interpret, rapid and relatively inexpensive with a sensitivity of 93%, and a specificity of 100%.
Ocular parameters in elderly in Norway
Authors: Midelfart Anna , Aamo Berit
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A retrospective review of medical records of 434 patients (mean age 76.2 ± 10.1 years) undergoing cataract surgery was performed to detect possible sex differences for several ocular parameters and their change with age. More women were operated for cataract than men by a 2:1 ratio. Their age was not significantly different. Women had higher intraocular pressure (15.4 ± 3.5 mmHg), shorter axial length (22.98 ± 1.31 mm) and steeper cornea (43.64 ± 1.61D) than men (14.7 ± 3.6 mmHg, 23.33 ± 0.97 mm and 42.88 ± 1.52D, respectively). For both sexes, a negative correlation between the corneal refraction and axial length was revealed. For women, a trend towards shorter eyes in the higher age groups was found. Among those older than 80 years, stronger intraocular lenses were implanted in women than in men. Based on these results, more attention should be paid to the differences between women and men regarding ocular parameters in the elderly.
The visual outcome of peripapillary choroidal neovascular membranes
Authors: Ruben S. , Palmer H. , Marsh R. J.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Twenty eyes with age related peripapillary choroidal neovascular membranes were studied retrospectively to establish visual outcome in relation to treatment with argon laser, position and size. There was no statistical difference in final visual acuity in relation to laser treatment, size of membrane, nor position of the membrane at presentation. Despite these findings, there is evidence that laser treatment may delay the progression of visual loss.
Spontaneous resolution of pterygium by auto‐avulsion
Authors: Cook N. J. , Dapling R. B.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The exact pathogenesis of pterygia is not yet clearly understood. Most recent studies implicate fibro‐blastic proliferation as the essential histopathology in the condition. A case is presented in which spontaneous avulsion of the head of a pterygium occurred, with rapid resolution of symptoms. Such an avulsion suggests the presence of strong forces being exerted on the cornea by the pterygium. Fibroblastic activity could be responsible for the development of such forces. This case supports existing evidence for the primary nature of fibroblastic proliferation in the development of pterygia.
Dye enhanced laser photocoagulation in the treatment of a peripapillary subretinal neovascular membrane
Authors: Hope‐Ross M. W. , Gibson J. M. , Chell P. B. , Corridan P. G. , Kritzinger E. E.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A 45‐year‐old female with an elevated peripapillary subretinal neovascular membrane was treated with dye enhanced laser photocoagulation, using indocyanine green and the diode laser. Following treatment the membrane regressed, with flattening of the lesion. No side effects occurred and excellent visual acuity was maintained over a 12 month follow‐up period.
Extracapsular cataract extraction in eyes previously operated for glaucoma
Authors: Drolsum Liv , Haaskjold Erling
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Extracapsular cataract extraction with IOL implantation was performed in 32 consecutive cases of glaucomatous eyes which previously had undergone trabeculectomy (group A). The only complication seen during surgery was one tear in the posterior capsule. The mean IOP on postoperative day 1 was 17.7 ± 7.9 mmHg. After extracapsular cataract extraction in 68 glaucomatous eyes with no previous surgery (group B) the corresponding mean IOP was 21.7 ± 7.5 mmHg (p = 0.015). However, the mean preoperative IOP level was lower in group A (group A: 14.3 ± 4.0 mmHg, group B: 17.1 ± 4.3 mmHg), so the increase in IOP was not significantly different in the two groups. In group A, 15.6% of the eyes had an IOP elevation exceeding 24 mmHg, compared to 30.9% of the eyes in group B. Four months postopera‐tively, the IOP was significantly reduced in group B and unchanged in group A (compared to preoperatively). Seventy‐two percent of the eyes in group A and 79% of the eyes in group B achieved a visual acuity of 5/10 or better, respectively.
Temporal arteritis
Authors: Schmidt D. , Löffler K. U.
Published: May 2009

Abstract.The aim of this investigation was to correlate the clinical and histological findings in 85 consecutive patients with temporal arteritis. Particular attention was given to a possible correlation between optic nerve involvement and the presence of giant cells upon histological examination. Severe ischemia as in anterior ischemic optic neuropathy and central retinal arterial occlusion was presented in 37 patients (43%). Giant cells were definitely oberved in 32 biopsy specimens (37.6%) and suspected in 11 additional specimens (13%): In 42 specimens (49.3%) no giant cells were present. Our study showed no correlation between the occurrence of severe optic nerve involvement and the histological findings with regard to giant cells. Statistical evaluation also failed to show a significant correlation betwen the frequency of pain and jaw claudication and the respective histological findings regarding giant cells. In the biopsy specimen of one patient, numerous eosinophilic granulocytes had infiltrated the vessel wall.
Experimental perforating injury with high energy electrons to inhibit intraocular proliferation
Authors: Velikay Michaela , Binder Susanne , Stolba Ulrike , Wedrich Andreas , Datlinger Peter , Handl‐Zeller Leonore
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Since 1980, the fibroblast model creating experimental proliferative vitreoretinopathy has been used to evaluate the antiproliferative effect of various drugs. In previous studies radiation therapy was found to reduce effectively intraocular proliferation in this model. We therefore investigated the effect of high energy electrons in a standard perforating injury model creating a traumatic proliferative vitreoretinopathy. In 36 eyes we performed a 8 mm pars plana incision and injected 0.4 ml of 80% fibronection solution intravitreally. Ten rabbits (20 eyes) received radiation therapy with a Betatron accelerator in a total dosage of 3000 cGy to each eye divided into 10 single fractions starting on the first postoperative day. Maximum concentration of the dose was focused to the posterior vitreous. The other 9 rabbits, 18 eyes, served as control. In our perforating injury model we observed a reduction of retinal detachment rate of 72% in the controls to 55% in the treated group. The effect of radiation therapy with high energy electrons and total dosage of 3000 cGy was not statistically significant in experimental traumatic proliferative vitreoretinopathy.
The relation between retinopathy and albumin excretion rate in insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus
Authors: Johansen J. , Sjølie A. K. , Elbøl P. , Eshøj O.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. In a population‐based patient material of 138 insulin‐dependent diabetics aged 25–34 years, and with a diabetes onset before 30 years of age, the relation between retinopathy and albumin excretion rate was studied. The prevalence rate of any retinopathy was 59% (81) and of proliferative retinopathy 17% (23). After 10 years' duration of diabetes, the prevalence of any retinopathy increased steeply and reached a maximum of about 90% after more than 20 years. Very few patients had proliferative retinopathy during the first 20 years, followed by a gradual increase in prevalence up to 40–50% after 25 years. Twenty‐one percent (29) of the study population was found to have an increased urinary albumin excretion rate. These patients were found to have a statistically significant increase in frequency of retinopathy (p <0.01) ‐ and in particular of proliferative retinopathy ‐ with increasing levels of urinary albumin excretion. Our results suggest a need for more frequent screening for diabetic retinopathy in diabetic patients with than without increased albumin excretion rate.
Quantitative tear ferning
Authors: Norn Mogens
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The tears of 225 subjects were examined for several disorders of the eye by means of a newly developed method, the quantitative tear ferning test. Of the 225 subjects, 89 were normal controls, 24 were examined before and after cataract extraction, and 112 had some disease of the external part of the eye. Using the quantitative tear ferning test, it was shown that compared to normals, the ferning area was significantly decreased in cases of keratoconjunctivitis sicca, in primary and in secondary Sjögren's syndrome. This was also the case in infectious conjunctivitis and after cataract extraction, possibly due to exudation from the conjunctival vessels. In simple conjunctivitis, however, the ferning area was normal. The ferning method has a sensitivity and a specificity of the same order as the commonly used tests for Sjögren's syndrome (Schirmer I, BUT, rose bengale, lactoferrin).
The effect of treatment on the results of high‐pass resolution perimetry in glaucoma
Authors: Martin‐Boglind Lene , Wanger Peter
Published: May 2009

Abstract. In order to find out to which extent high‐pass resolution perimetry would detect any changes in patients treated for glaucoma, resolution perimetry results were evaluated from 56 glaucoma patients and 15 untreated ocular hypertensive patients followed for 2 to 3 years. Fifty‐nine of the 71 examined patients showed lower resolution thresholds, i.e. increased sensitivity, after 2 years, compared to initial values. The threshold decrease was significantly larger in the treated glaucoma patients (median 1.22 dB) than in the untreated ocular hypertensive patients (0.48 dB). The threshold decrease in the untreated ocular hypertensive group corresponds to the previously described learning effect. In 35 of the 56 treated glaucoma patients the thresholds improved more than 0.84 dB, the upper confidence limit in the untreated group, which may indicate a beneficial effect of antiglaucoma therapy in these patients. The threshold change was unrelated to initial resolution threshold and cannot be explained by a ‘sorting’ effect. The observations in the current study using resolution perimetry indicate that improved visual function can be demonstrated in many patients treated for early glaucoma, at least during the first 2 years of treatment.
Filter goggles imitating dark adaptation for measurement of visual readaptation after flash exposure
Authors: Wang Ling , Zand Martin R. , Söderberg Per G.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The effect of red pass goggles (cut off wavelength = 650 nm) imitating dark adaptation on measurement of visual readaptation after flash exposure was investigated in humans. The results showed that there is no statistically significant difference between visual readaptation time measured with ordinary dark adaptation and that with goggles for adaptation. No statistically significant difference was found between females and males. It is suggested that red pass goggles can be practicably used to simulate dark adaptation in measuring visual readaptation time. Visual readaptation time was measured as the interval between the triggering of a green flash and the reappearance of optokinetic nystagmus. Optokinetic nystagmus was induced by a moving vertical grating and recorded by DC EOG.
The effect of ultraviolet‐B irradiation on the cell shedding rate of the corneal epithelium
Authors: Ren Hongwei , Wilson Graeme
Published: May 2009

Abstract. In this study cell shedding rates of the corneal epithelium were determined in vitro following a single suprathreshold dose of ultraviolet‐B irradiation. Rabbit corneas were excised and superfused in pairs. The epithelial and endothelial surfaces were bathed with solutions containing essential ions and adjusted to appropriate pH and osmolality. One cornea in each pair was irradiated, while the other cornea served as a control. Shed cells were periodically collected from the corneal surface and the shedding rate determined by counting the number of cells in a 50 min time period. Following a latent period of about 3 h, the epithelial shedding rate accelerated, and remained elevated for at least 8 h after irradiation. This result suggests that suprathreshold doses of ultraviolet‐B irradiation disrupt the normal orderly cell shedding process and homeostatic equilibrium of the corneal epithelium. The elevated cell shedding rate exposes subsurface nerve endings and causes the characteristic pain of photokeratitis.
Adult‐onset myopia and occupation
Authors: Simensen Bjørn , Thorud Lars Ola
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Eleven female textile workers, all carrying out quality control on textiles (close‐working distance of 30 cm), were investigated with a view to refractive status. Eleven women in the same factory having other working tasks (office, sale, production) were used as a control group after being matched regarding age and education. Ninety percent of the close workers and 0% of the controls turned out to be myopic, and 80% of the close workers had no need for minus glasses before the age of 20 years. The refraction (in cycloplegia) was ‐2.56 (cases) vs +1.19 (controls). No deviation was observed concerning keratometry, anterior chamber depth and lens thickness. The axial length, however, was 24.36 mm and 22.72 mm, respectively.
The relationship between cataract and climatic droplet keratopathy in Mongolia
Authors: Minassian D. C. , Baasanhu J. , Johnson G. J. , Burendei G.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. This study evaluated the association between cataract, the commonest single blinding disorder worldwide, and climatic droplet keratopathy which was taken as an indicator of high exposure to ultraviolet sunlight. A sample of 4344 persons from rural Mongolia (1991–92) provided 8634 eyes for analysis of the relationship between cataract and climatic droplet keratopathy. Right and left eyes were combined (paired into matched sets), and analysed using a random‐effects regression model. The results indicated an inverse association between cataract and climatic droplet keratopathy in person aged 55 years or older, whereby eyes with more advanced climatic droplet keratopathy had lower prevalence of cataract (age‐adjusted odds ratio 0.53, p = 0.047). In the younger group of persons aged 40–54 years, the reverse was found, whereby cataract prevalence was higher in eyes that have climatic droplet keratopathy (age‐adjusted odds ratio 13.19, p = 0.046). However, only a small proportion (4%) of all the cataracts occurred in this younger age stratum where the prevalence of cataract was 0.5%, compared to prevalence of 17% in eyes of persons aged 55 years or older. These findings cast further doubts upon the current thesis that lifetime exposure to high levels of ultraviolet sunlight is a major cause of cataract in developing countries.
Efficacy and safety of timolol/pilocarpine combination drops in glaucoma patients
Authors: Uusitalo Risto J. , Palkama Arto
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The aim of this randomized, double‐blind study with two parallel groups was to examine the safety, efficacy and tolerability of two combination eye drops containing 0.5% timolol and 2% pilocarpine (Fotil®, Leiras, Finland, and Timpilo®, MSD, USA) in patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Efficacy was determined based on daytime intraocular pressure curve and safety by examining visual fields, visual acuity, optic discs, by determining blood pressure and pulse rate, and by performing Schirmer and fluorescein tests. A total of 89 patients were enrolled, and 71 completed the 10‐week treatment period. This study showed that the two combinations of 0.5% timolol maleate and 2% pilocarpine HCl compared in this study were equally effective in reducing intraocular pressure. The decrease in mean daily intraocular pressure from 0 to 10 weeks was 7.48 mmHg for Fotil, and 6.31 for Timpilo. The mean decrease in mean daily intraocular pressure was 29.3% for Fotil, and 26.0% for Timpilo. No significant differences were found between the groups. Adverse event were reported by 70 out of 89 patients by the end of 2 weeks, but were severe enough only in 11 for the treatment to be discontinued. In all others, adverse events were of transient nature and considered mild. In general, adverse events were similar in both study groups. However, burning was more common in patients on Fotil, and blurring of vision and light sensitivity were more common in patients on Timpilo. In patients with no contraindication to beta‐blockers, these drugs appeared to be safe. No significant changes were noticed in blood pressure during the follow‐up period, while a decrease in pulse frequency was detected in both groups. No significant changes occurred in visual acuity, visual fields or optic discs in either group.
Gas gangrene panophthalmitis
Authors: La Cour Morten , Nørgaard Annette , Prause Jan Ulrik , Scherfig Erik
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A case of clostridium perfringens gas gangrene panophthalmitis developed after a penetrating eye injury. The affected eye became amaurotic, but the panophthalmitis was controlled by minimal surgical debridement and systemic antibiotic therapy with penicillin, fucidic acid and metronidazole. Elective enucleation was performed 15 days after the trauma for cosmetic reasons. The enucleated eye was examined histopathologically and showed massive retinal necrosis but no signs of bacteriae.
Fluorescein transport across the human blood‐retina barrier in the direction vitreous to blood
Authors: Engler Claus B. , Sander Birgit , Larsen Michael , Dalgaard Peter , Lund‐Andersen Henrik
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Inward and outward movement of fluorescein across the human blood‐retina barrier was studied in five healthy volunteers, using a differential spectrofluorometry method that eliminates the contribution of fluorescein glucuronide to the total fluorescence in the vitreous and in plasma. The inward permeability across the blood‐retina barrier, which is presumed to be passive, and the diffusion coefficient in the vitreous for fluorescein was calculated from data obtained 1 h after intravenous injection of fluorescein. The rate of elimination of fluorescein from the vitreous across the blood‐retina barrier was estimated from data obtained 7 to 12 h after injection of fluorescein. The calculations were based upon the free plasma fluorescein decay curve and the preretinal fluorescein gradient in the vitreous. The mean inward permeability of fluorescein was 1.39 times 10−7 cm/sec (range: 0.70‐2.06 times 10−7 cm/sec), whereas the mean outward permeability was 1.51 times 10−5 cm/sec (range: 1.14‐1.73 times 10−5 cm/sec). We have thus found that the movement of fluorescein across the blood‐retina barrier is highly asymmetric, the outward transport being more than 100 times faster than the passive inward leakage. This could indicate the presence of an active pumping mechanism in the blood‐retina barrier, responsible for fluorescein transport in the direction from the vitreous to the blood.