bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The venous closing pressure in central retinal vein obstruction
Authors: Luckie Alan P. , Wroblewski John J. , Bird Alan C. , Hamilton AM Peter , Sanders Michael D. , Green William , Slater Nicolas G. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Objective: To assess the rate of change in the central retinal venous closing pressure in central retinal vein obstruction over time, and its relationship to visual acuity improvement and the development of rubeosis iridis. Methods: Fifty patients presenting with central retinal vein obstruction of less than three months' duration, between the ages of 40 and 80 years, were reviewed prospectively. The central retinal venous closing pressure was measured by digital ocular compression. Patients were discharged from the study after the six‐month visit. Results: All patients had elevated venous closing pressure at presentation, whereas at six months only 24 patients had persistent elevation. Of 16 patients with lowering of the venous closing pressure within four months of onset of central retinal vein obstruction, 11 (69%) had two or more lines of visual acuity improvement. Only two of 10 patients (20%) developing lowering of the venous closing pressure thereafter had visual improvement. No patient developed rubeosis iridis after the venous closing pressure lowered. Conclusion: The central retinal venous closing pressure is raised in central retinal vein obstruction to about central retinal arterial diastolic pressure, and is its pathognomonic sign. This sign is easily elicited via digital pressure on the eyelid, and has prognostic significance for visual acuity improvement and the development of rubeosis iridis.
Prevalence of blindness and visual impairment in an elderly urban population
Authors: Casson Robert , Giles Lynne , Newland Henry S. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Background: Accurate data on the prevalence of blindness in urban populations is not readily available. The Australian Longitudinal Study of Ageing is a prospective multidimensional study examining a broad range of age‐related health issues, including visual function. Methods: A population‐based sample of 1466 persons, 70 years of age and over, from the Adelaide metropolitan area underwent visual acuity measurements. Results: Approximately 1% were legally blind by Australian definitions. Conclusions: This percentage is low by world standards, however projections indicate that the absolute number of blind elderly people is rapidly increasing. Data such as this are crucial for the planning of adequate ophthalmic care.
Mobile retinal photography: A means of screening for diabetic retinopathy in Aboriginal communities
Authors: Karagiannis Arthur , Newland Henry 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Background:Mobile fundus photography undertaken by Aboriginal health workers has been suggested as a practical and effective method of screening for diabetic retinopathy among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Methods:A pilot study was undertaken to demonstrate that interpretable colour slides of the retina could be produced by Aboriginal health workers trained over a two‐week period. Results:Of 47 subjects, 36 (76.6%) had interpretable retinal photographs. Conclusions:These findings warrant further evaluation as to the benefits and cost effectiveness of mobile retinal photography.
A simple snare for transscleral fixation of dislocated intraocular lenses
Authors: Poon Alex , Clark J Ben , Grey Rodney HB , Markham Richard HC 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose:The construction and use of a surgical snare in retrieving and securing posterior chamber intraocular lenses is described. Methods:The snare consists of a 10‐0 polypropylene suture threaded into a 25‐gauge ret‐robulbar needle. This is used after a pars plana vitrectomy to retrieve the dislocated intraocular lens. The needle attached to the polypropylene suture is used to secure the lens haptic 1.5 mm behind the limbus. Two snares are used to secure the two lens haptics. Conclusions:The snare is easy to make with readily available materials. The use of this snare involves less intraocular and extraocular manipulations than other described methods.
The cellular mechanism underlying neuronal degeneration in glaucoma: Parallels with Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Vickers JC 
Published: November 2007

AbstractEvidence is presented that the characteristic pattern of neuronal degeneration associated with glaucoma is due to a combination of the persistent physical damage to axons at the level of the lamina cribrosa and the associated neuronal reaction to this kind of trauma. The class of neuronal cytoskeletal proteins known as the neurofilament triplet are crucially involved in the reaction to physical damage and the selective localization of these proteins to larger retinal ganglion cells may underlie their susceptibility to eventual degeneration. The appearance of glaucoma‐like neuronal pathology in Alzheimer's disease may follow the reaction of neurofilament‐containing retinal ganglion neurons to persistent damage to their axons by β‐amyloid plaque formation in subcortical visual centres.
Extended wear disposable soft contact lenses as an alternative to photorefractive keratectomy: Report of 4 years experience
Authors: Buckley CA , Buckley CJ , Griffiths J 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: To establish whether; in a well‐informed population, the use of extended wear disposable soft contact lenses (EWDSCL) poses an unacceptable risk to vision and corneal health due to complications associated with their use. Methods: A 4 year retrospective review of EWDSCL, involving 371 patients in Melbourne from a single general ophthalmology practice. The important aspects of this group were that all patients were given written instructions about the methods of ensuring initial and ongoing cleanliness of lenses, no lenses were cleaned and reinserted, and no solutions other than the saline in the original packaging, and comfort drops, were used. Two types of EWDSCL were used, in powers from ‐ 9.0 to + 6.0 D, and with an initial aim of 4 weeks uninterrupted extended wear. Follow‐up was from 2 to 52 months, with an average of 24 months. Results: Of the 354 patients followed up, 236 (66%) regularly wore them on an extended overnight basis, and of these 180 (76%) wore them for the suggested 4 week period before renewal of lenses. In the 471 eyes of 236 patients, adverse reactions occurred at the following rates: marginal infiltrates (12 cases, 2.5%); corneal oedema (10 cases, 2%); peripheral corneal vascularization (2 cases, 0.4%); and presumed infective keratitis (1 case, 0.2%). No eyes lost one or more lines of Snellen acuity. Conclusions: When disposable soft contact lenses do not come into contact with cleaning solutions, saline from bottles or aerosol cans, or storage cases, their use on an extended wear basis (up to 4 weeks continuous) appears to be associated with a low risk of minor or major complications. The results of this review indicate that controlled usage of EWDSCL is safer than previous reports have indicated.
Atypical choristomatous cysts of the orbit
Authors: West JA , Drewe RH , McNab AA 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Background: The commonest choristomatous cysts of the orbit are dermoid and epidermoid cysts, which are lined by kerantinizing seuamous epithelium. They typically occur in the superior orbit, most commonly superotemporally. Other types, lined by different epithelia, and other orbital sites are much less common. Methods: Five cases of atypical orbital cystic choristomas that presented over the past 6 years are reported. The clinical and radiological features, surgical approach and findings, and histology are described. Similar cases from the literature are reviewed, and possible aetiology discussed. Results: Four of the cysts were lined by a non‐keratinizing epithelium resembling conjunctiva; two had adnexal structures in their walls. Compared with typical dermoid and epidermoid cysts, these ‘conjunctival dermoids’ and ‘conjunctival cysts’ of the orbit tended to present later in life, none were associated with bony defects, and three of the four occurred in the superomedial quadrant. One case occurred inferiorly, a rare site for orbital conjunctival dermoids and cysts, or typical dermoids and epidermoids. The fifth case, also inferior; is an example of a cyst within choristomatous lacrimal tissue. Conclusion: Choristomatous cysts of the orbit may occur with non‐keratinizing epithelial linings, and such cysts tend to differ clinically from the commoner dermoids and epidermoids. They may also occur in atypical sites such as the inferior orbit.
Meningococcal conjunctivitis
Authors: Irani F , Ruddell T 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Background: Primary meningococcal conjunctivitis is a rare condition that can have devastating ocular and systemic complications. Methods: Review of the case records. Conclusions: Appropriate Gram stain and cultures should be obtained in cases of hyperacute conjunctivitis, especially in young patients, and systemic antibiotics should be initiated promptly where Gram‐negative diplococci are found and prophylaxis for close contacts considered in Neisseria meningitidis conjunctivitis.
Scedosporium prolificans corneoscleritis: A successful outcome
Authors: Kumar B , Crawford GJ , Morlet GC 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Background: A case of Scedosporium prolificans corneoscleritis is reported in a patient who had developed scleral necrosis following pterygium surgery, with adjunctive β‐irradiation. This fungus has been reported to be the causative organism in only two previous cases of corneoscleritis. Methods: The patient presented with signs and symptoms typical of corneoscleritis. When the fungus was isolated from a biopsy specimen, aggressive scleral debridement was carried out and intensive antifungal therapy was instigated. Results: After a prolonged course, the eye was rendered sterile. Conclusion: Early conjunctival recession and aggressive scleral debridement combined with intensive instillation of antifungals are crucial to the successful management of fungal corneoscleritis.
Lack of association between localized cataract and visual field loss: The Blue Mountains Eye Study
Authors: Ivers Rebecca Q. , BOptom  , Mitchell Paul , Cumming Robert G. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: To examine whether localized cataract is related to localized field defects on suprathreshold visual field testing. Methods: Suprathreshold screening visual fields (Humphrey 76‐point test) and lens photographs, graded using the Wisconsin System, were performed on participants attending the Blue Mountains Eye Study, which examined 3654 subjects residing in an area west of Sydney, NSW, Australia. The results for 2276 subjects were analysed in the present study. Results: There were no significant relationships between total points missing in the visual field and the degree of cortical, posterior subcapsular (PSC) or nuclear cataract after adjusting for confounders (test for trend P=0.9, 0.7 and 0.9, respectively). Adjusted prevalence ratios and 95% confidence limits for the association between 10 or more points missing and the presence of cataract were 0.94 (0.77–1.25) for cortical, 1.26 (0.82–1.93) for PSC and 1.06 (0.86–1.30) for nuclear cataract. Similarly, there was no relationship between the presence of cortical or PSC cataract and sectoral visual field loss in any quadrant or hemifield. Conclusions: Neither cortical, nuclear nor PSC cataracts increase the total points missing on the 76‐point suprathreshold field test. Similarly, neither cortical nor PSC cataracts cause sectoral visual field loss on this screening field test. In the presence of cataract, sectoral visual field loss on non‐thresholding visual field screeners must be attributed to other causes, such as glaucoma. The present study provides a clinical alert that localized field loss is unlikely to be related to cataract.
Use of a confocal laser scanning ophthalmoscope to detect glaucomatous cupping of the optic disc
Authors: Cucevic Viviene , Brooks Anne MV , Strang Nicole T. , Klein Anthony G. , Nugent Keith A. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that the three‐dimensional (3‐D) topography of the optic disc contains sufficient information to diagnose glaucoma with a high degree of reliability. Methods: The Zeiss ‘Confocal Laser Scanning Ophthalmoscope’ (CLSO) was used to obtain digitized samples of 3‐D images of optic nerve heads from the following three groups of patients: (i) 40 normals with normal optic discs, normal Humphrey 24–2 full threshold visual fields and an intraocular pressure (IOP) ≤ 21 mmHg; (ii) 20 established glaucoma patients with cupping, glaucomatous field loss and an IOP > 21 mmHg; and (iii) 20 early glaucoma patients with early cupping, field loss with a mean defect less than –10 dB and IOP > 21 mmHg. The cupping in these patients was paramaterized by spherical harmonics and was classified by multivariate statistical analysis. Results: Of 40 glaucoma patients, 39 were correctly classified. Of 40 normal patients one was classified as glaucoma. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that the CLSO, with the use of spherical harmonics, can differentiate glaucomatous from normal optic discs in this selected group of patients without the need for a skilled observer. This constitutes a promising technique to be tested on a large, unselected body of patients as a screening tool.
Differentiation of the maturity of cataractous human lens capsules according to changes in protein secondary structures determined by Fourier‐transformed infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Lee Shui‐Mei , Lin Shan‐Yang 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: Cataract‐induced alterations in the protein secondary structure of human lens capsules in different maturity of cataractous patients was investigated. Methods: Fourier‐transformed infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy with Fourier self‐deconvolution and curve‐fitting algorithms was used. Twenty‐seven immature and four mature cataractous patients (previously classified through observations of the depth of the shadow cast by the iris on oblique illumination) were investigated in the present study. Results: Two groups with progressive cataract formation could be effectively redifferentiated and re‐arranged. In the first group, all the peak positions were the same and the peak at 1651 cm‐1 assigned to the α‐helix structure was predominant, but the structural compositions of the β‐sheet and β‐turn changed with progressive cataractogenesis. In the second group, in which cataract formation was more advanced, the peak at 1651 cm‐1 assigned to the α‐helix structure shifted to 1658 cm‐1 and a new peak appeared at 1647 cm‐1, due to random coil structure; the structural composition of triple helix significantly decreased but the compositions of the β‐sheet and β‐turn slightly increased. Amides II and III of the IR spectra seemed to be less changed in secondary structures. Conclusions: These results suggest that FT‐IR spectroscopy with Fourier self‐deconvolution and curve‐fitting programs can be used as a diagnostic tool for the determination of the cataractous maturity of human lens capsules.
A review of 24 cases of Mohs surgery and ophthalmic plastic reconstruction
Authors: Kumar B , Roden D , Vinciullo C , Elliott T 
Published: November 2007

Abstract Purpose: Mohs surgery (micrographically controlled excision) has been advocated as an effective method of dealing with infiltrative periorbital skin tumours. It has been shown to have high rates of tumour clearance with minimal loss of normal tissue, thus making oculoplastic reconstruction easier and functional preservation better: The aim of the present study was to confirm this. Guidelines for the selection of patients for Mohs surgery are discussed. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 24 cases of primary (n= 18) and recurrent (n=6) periorbital basal and squamous cell carcinomas managed by Mohs micrographic excision and plastic reconstruction who presented to the Royal Perth Hospital between 1992 and 1996. Results: Our high rate of tumour clearance (100%) was similar to that of previous studies, although our follow‐up period was only 14.6 months. The fact that 50% of our patients with lid involvement had an intact posterior lamella after Mohs excision correlates with the high level of normal tissue preservation. The low rate of postoperative symptomatic problems suggests good maintenance of function. The infiltrative nature of these tumours was highlighted by the substantial proportion of cases (37.5%) that had a much larger excision defect than what was expected prior to excision. Conclusions: Our analysis confirms that Mohs excision and subsequent oculoplastic reconstruction is an effective method to use when managing periorbital infiltrative skin tumours.
Cataract surgery reduces subjective visual disability
Authors: Pesudovs K , Coster DJ 
Published: November 2007

ABSTRACTPurpose:The present study examines the impact of cataract on visual disability (VD) and how cataract surgery alters VD.Methods:Fifty‐six patients were assessed pre‐ and at 3 months post‐cataract surgery. Cataract severity was measured with the Lens Opacities Classification System ill (LOCS III). Visual disability was assessed by questionnaire. The relationship between LOCS III scores and total VD score was examined with linear regression. Repeated measures analysis of variance was used to determine whether the pre‐ and postoperative VD scores were different. Results: The VD score was found to relate more closely to the LOCS III score in the least affected eye than in the most affected eye. The VD score is related to nuclear opacity (P=0.01), and posterior subcapsular cataract (PSC; P=0.0004), but not to cortical cataract (P=0.51) (r2= 0.43). The VD score is significantly greater before surgery (mean ±SD) 1.81 +0.67) than after (1.19 ± 0.21; P± 0.001).Conclusions:Nuclear and PSC cataracts cause more visual disability than cortical cataracts. Visual disability is significantly reduced by cataract surgery.
A computer‐generated test of acuity for multi‐handicapped children
Authors: Fitzmaurice K , Maclean H 
Published: November 2007

ABSTRACTAssessment of visual function in severely intellectually handicapped children is difficult but necessary for educational purposes. The difficulties encountered include: lack of literacy skills; lack of verbal and fine motor skills; and low interest level of the optotypes. A computer‐generated test has been developed that helps overcome these difficulties. This test presents pictures equivalent in line width to Snellen, which are manipulated on screen to provide movement and change of size to facilitate non‐verbal responses and to increase interest level. Evaluation trials were conducted with 96 cognitively normal children and 37 multi‐handicapped children. The computer test facilitated testing of significantly more of the multi‐handicapped children. Data from both trial groups indicated a good positive correlation between the computer test and a standard optotype test. Further refinement and evaluation of this computer test is continuing.
Gender, oestrogen, hormone replacement and age‐related macular degeneration: Results from the Blue Mountains Eye Study
Authors: Smith W , Mitchell P , Wang JJ 
Published: November 2007

ABSTRACTPurpose:To determine whether females have a higher age‐specific age‐related maculopathy prevalence than males; whether there is an increased risk of age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) with early menopause; and whether there is a decreased risk of AMD with use of hormone replacement therapy (HRX).Methods:Pooled data from three study populations that have used similar AMD diagnostic criteria were used to answer the first hypothesis: the Beaver Dam Eye Study (BDES), the Rotterdam study of the elderly, and the Blue Mountains Eye Study (BMES). The BMES population was used to answer the second and third hypotheses. This population included residents aged 49 or older with 2072 women participating, of whom 1899 postmenopausal women answered questions about menopause, menarche and HRT AMD was diagnosed from graded retinal photographs using modified international criteria.Results:The overall pooled odds ratio (OR) for association between sex and AMD revealed a significant increase in AMD prevalence among females compared with males, adjusting for 10‐year age categories, OR = 1. 15 (1. 10‐1.21), with no significant heterogeneity between studies. A significant decrease in the odds of early AMD with increasing years from menarche to menopause was observed.Conclusions:The results suggest that females may have a higher risk of AMD. The significant decrease in early AMD with increasing years from menarche to menopause supports the concept that a shorter duration of oestrogen production may increase risk of AMD.
Effect of hydrogel lens wear on the major tear proteins during extended wear
Authors: Carney FP , Morris CA , Willcox MDP 
Published: November 2007

ABSTRACTPurpose:The purpose of the present study was to determine whether contact lens wear disturbed the levels of tear proteins and to further determine whether this was a transient or continuous disruption.Methods:Lactoferrin, lysozyme and albumin were quanti‐tated from tears of neophyte patients and were compared with the levels of these proteins in contact lens wearers after one and six nights and 6 months of extended wear The quantitation of these tear proteins was performed by sandwich ELISA and turbidimetric assay.Results:Results showed that there were no statistically significant changes in the concentration of any of the proteins investigated.Conclusions:Extended wear of hydrogel lenses does not appear to alter the concentration of the major tear film proteins, indicating that the tear film is constantly replenished to maintain protein levels, which are depleted due to protein adsorption to the lens surface.
Adhesion and growth of Serratia marcescens on artificial closed eye tears soaked hydrogel contact lenses
Authors: Hume EBH , Willcox MDP 
Published: November 2007

ABSTRACTThe adhesion to hydrogel contact lenses and growth of Serratia marcescens on artificial tear fluid (ATF) soaked lenses was investigated. Results indicated that a corneal ulcer isolate adhered more avidly to lenses; ATF increased adhesion for all strains tested. The contact lens induced acute red eye (CLARE) isolate adhered poorly; however; it grew to a larger extent on ATF‐coated lenses. The ability of the corneal ulcer isolate to adhere to lenses may be an important factor in its pathogenicity whereas the ability of the CLARE isolate to grow on the lens in the presence of antimicrobial tear proteins may be important in the development of inflammation.
A light‐driven rhythm in neurotensin‐like immunoreactivity in the chicken retina
Authors: Yang DS , Li ZK , Morgan IG 
Published: November 2007

ABSTRACTPurpose:To determine if the pattern of release of neurotensin from the enkephalin‐, neurotensin‐ and somatostatin‐like immunoreactive amacrine cells in response to light and dark is the same as that of the enkephalins and somatostatin.Methods/Results:Both the enkephalins and somatostatin are released at high rates in the dark and at lower rates in the light, and these rate changes are reflected in increasing intracellular levels of the peptides in vivo in the light and decreasing levels in the dark The levels of neurotensin‐like immunoreactivity show a similar diurnal light‐driven and non‐circadian rhythm in vivo.Conclusion:This implies that the actual release rates of neurotensin follow the same patterns as those demonstrated in vitro for the enkephalins and somatostatin.