Age-related Autoimmune Changes in Lacrimal Glands

Aging is a complex process associated with dysregulation of the immune system and low levels of inflammation, often associated with the onset of many pathologies. The lacrimal gland (LG) plays a vital role in the maintenance of ocular physiology and changes related to aging directly affect eye diseases. The dysregulation of the immune system in aging leads to quantitative and qualitative changes in antibodies and cytokines. While there is a gradual decline of the immune system, there is an increase in autoimmunity, with a reciprocal pathway between low levels of inflammation and aging mechanisms. Elderly C57BL/6J mice spontaneously show LGs infiltration that is characterized by Th1 but not Th17 cells. The aging of the LG is related to functional alterations, reduced innervation and decreased secretory activities. Lymphocytic infiltration, destruction, and atrophy of glandular parenchyma, ductal dilatation, and secretion of inflammatory mediators modify the volume and composition of tears. Oxidative stress, the capacity to metabolize and eliminate toxic substances decreased in aging, is also associated with the reduction of LG functionality and the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Although further studies are required for a better understanding of autoimmunity and aging of the LG, we described anatomic and immunology aspects that have been described so far.

Preparation and characterization of novel, mucoadhesive ofloxacin nanoparticles for ocular drug delivery

The efficacy of conventional ocular formulations is limited by poor corneal retention and permeation, resulting in low ocular bioavailability. Mucoadhesive chitosan (CS)/ tripolyphosphatesodium (TPP) and chitosan (CS)/ tripolyphosphatesodium (TPP)-alginate (ALG) nanoparticles were investigated for the prolonged topical ophthalmic delivery of ofloxacin. A modified ionotropic gelation method was used to produce ofloxacin-loaded nanoreservoir systems. The ofloxacin-loaded CS/TPP and CS/TPP-ALG nanoparticles were characterized for particle size, morphology, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, subsequent release and corneal penetration study. The designed nanoparticles have a particle size from 113.8 nm to 509 nm and zeta potential from 16.2 mV to 40.3 mV and encapsulation efficiency values ranging from 19.7% to 33.1%. Nanoparticles revealed a release during the first hours, followed by a more gradual drug release. The ofloxacin-loading CS/TPP or CS/TPP-ALG NPs developed are pronounced penetration enhancing effect as compared to OFX solution (5-6.5 times). Thus, these nanoparticles have a strong potential for ocular drug delivery.

Ângulos visuais: Artigo sobre a importância para o Implante de Lentes Intraoculares Multifocais / Visual angles: Article on the importance of Multifocal Intraocular Lenses Implantation

Resumo Objetivos: Medir o ângulo lâmbda (AL) em indivíduos no pré-operatório de facectomias, correlacionando a sua presença com o comprimento axial e o esférico dos olhos. Sugerir condutas para o implante de LIO multifocal de acordo com a presença do ângulo lâmbda. Métodos: Estudo transversal em 128 olhos de 74 indivíduos candidatos à cirurgia de catarata para registrar a equivalente presença do ângulo lâmbda. Resultados: Avaliando o ângulo lâmbda observou-se uma correlação positiva (r= 0,559 / p= 0,000) para o tamanho desse ângulo comparando-se os dois olhos. Não houve correlação entre o tamanho do ângulo lâmbda e o equivalente esférico no olho direito (r= -0,027 / p= 0,840), mas foi verificada correlação positiva para o olho esquerdo (r= 0,313 / p= 0,013). A presença da hipermetropia correlacionou com os comprimentos axiais pequenos, assim como a miopia com os grandes. Observou-se correlação negativa entre o tamanho do ângulo lâmbda e o comprimento axial para os dois olhos, sendo de r= -0,249 para o olho direito (p= 0,042) e r= -0,281 para o olho esquerdo (p= 0,018) Conclusões: Houve correlação entre a presença de ângulo lâmbda maior e comprimentos axiais menores para os dois olhos. Para o equivalente esférico hipermétrope houve correlação com a presença de um ângulo lâmbda maior apenas para o olho esquerdo. Esse trabalho sugere parcimônia nos implantes de LIO multifocal na presença de ângulo lâmbda significativo, baseado na teoria que a presença desse ângulo é reguladora do equilíbrio entre as aberrações da superfície corneana versus cristalineanas.

Abstract Objectives: To measure the labral angle (LA) in individuals in the preoperative period of facectomies, correlating their presence with axial length and spherical equivalent of the eyes. Suggest conduits for the implantation of multifocal IOL according to the presence of the lambda angle. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 128 eyes of 74 individuals who were candidates for cataract surgery to record the presence of the lambda angle. Results: A positive correlation (r = 0.559 / p = 0.000) was observed for the angle of this angle by comparing the two eyes. There was no correlation between the size of the lambda angle and the spherical equivalent in the right eye (r = -0.027 / p = 0.840), but a positive correlation was observed for the left eye (r = 0.313 / p = 0.013). The presence of hyperopia correlated with small axial lengths, as did myopia with large ones. There was a negative correlation between the angle of the tongue and the axial length of the two eyes, with r = -0.249 for the right eye (p = 0.042) and = 0.281 for the left eye (p = 0.018). Conclusions: There was a correlation between the presence of a larger lambda angle and smaller axial lengths for both eyes. For the spherical hypermétrope equivalent, there was a correlation with the presence of a larger blunt angle only for the left eye. This work suggests parsimony in multifocal IOL implants in the presence of a significant lamella angle, based on the theory that the presence of this angle regulates the balance between corneal versus crystaline surface aberrations.

Termografia infravermelha da superfície ocular como indicador de estresse em suínos na fase de creche / Infrared thermography of the ocular surface as stress indicator for piglets postweaning

Desmama é uma fase crítica na vida do suíno devido a separação materna e a introdução de uma dieta seca. A termografia infravermelha medida na região ocular se mostra como um indicador confiável para a condição de estresse pontual de suínos. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a relação entre medidas de termografia infravermelha da superfície ocular e de cortisol em situações de estresse em leitões na pós desmama. Foram avaliados 66 leitões, uma vez por semana, durante sete semanas, em dois períodos do dia (7h e 15h) com medidas de temperatura superficial ocular, temperatura superficial do dorso e amostras de saliva para determinação de cortisol salivar. A análise estatística contemplou os efeitos fixos de semana e período do dia e sua interação e correlações de Pearson para relação entre termografia ocular, temperatura superficial e cortisol a 5% de significância. Cortisol salivar não diferiu entre os períodos, mas foi superior nas três primeiras semanas após o desmame (P<0,05). Nas duas primeiras semanas após a desmama o cortisol apresentou correlação alta e positiva (P<0,05) com a temperatura ocular máxima (0,89) e a temperatura superficial do dorso (0,80). As duas temperaturas superficiais apresentaram uma associação moderada positiva (r=0,41; P<0,0001) durante todo o período experimental. Este estudo destaca que a temperatura de superfície ocular obtida por meio da termografia infravermelha pode ser um indicador de temperatura de superfície corporal e estado de bem-estar de leitões em fase de creche, além de ser um método não invasivo e de rápida mensuração. Entretanto, mais pesquisas são necessárias para aprofundar a relação entre temperatura ocular e cortisol durante estresse crônico.(AU)

Weaning is a critical phase in pigs' life due to maternal separation and the introduction of a new diet. Infrared thermography measurement taken in the ocular region appears to be a reliable indicator of the stress condition of the pig. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between ocular surface temperature by infrared thermography and cortisol in piglets post weaning. Sixty-six piglets were evaluated once a week, during 7 weeks, in two periods of the day (7am and 15pm) and ocular surface temperature and dorsal surface temperature were collected using a thermographic camera and a laser surface thermometer, respectively. Saliva was also collected to determine salivary cortisol. Statistical analysis included fixed effects of week and period of the day and their interaction, and relationship between thermography, dorsal surface temperature and cortisol were done by Pearson's correlations with 5% significance level. Salivary cortisol did not differ between periods, but it was higher in the first three weeks after weaning (P<0.05). During the first two weeks after weaning cortisol presented high and positive correlation (P<0.05) between ocular surface temperature (0.89) and dorsal surface temperature (0.80). The two superficial temperatures had a moderate and positive association (r=0.41; P<0.0001) during all experiment. This study highlights that the ocular surface temperature obtained through infrared thermography can be a superficial body temperature indicators, besides being a non-invasive and fast method of measurement. However, more research is needed to deepen the relationship between ocular surface temperature and cortisol during chronic stress.(AU)

Estudo do coeficiente de asfericidade e aberração esférica longitudinal da superfície corneana / Study of asphericity coefficient and longitudinal spherical aberration surface corneal

Resumo Objetivo: Correlacionar o coeficiente de asfericidade com a aberração esférica longitudinal na superfície corneana, correlacionando também cada uma dessas variáveis com a ceratometria média Métodos: Realizou-se um estudo observacional através da coleta de dados pré-operatórios nos prontuários de indivíduos candidatos a facectomia. Os dados coletados se referiam ao sexo e idade, além do Q, LSA da superfície corneana e ceratometria média (Km). Foram excluídos do estudo os pacientes que realizaram qualquer procedimento cirúrgico corneano, por alterar as medidas da Q, LSA e Km. O topógrafo selecionou, de maneira fixa, uma área 4,5mm da superfície anterior da córnea para medida do Q e da LSA, tendo como ponto central o eixo pupilar. A ocorrência da LSA é relevante em ambientes de penumbra, em indivíduos com pupila maior que 3mm. Resultados: A amostra foi composta por 70 olhos de 35 indivíduos: 24 (68,6%) mulheres e 11 (31,4%) homens. A idade variou de 48 a 89 anos (média de 69,97 ± 8,29). A Km variou de 41,00D a 46,50D com média de 43,94 ± 1,48D. Na avaliação do Q da superfície corneana se observou uma média de -0,15 ± 0,15. Seis (8,57%) córneas apresentaram desenho esférico com Q= 0 e apenas uma córnea apresentou desenho asférico com Q= -0,50, gerando LSA= 0,0µm. Em relação a LSA da superfície corneana se observou média de +0,33 ± 0,14 µm. Quarenta e dois olhos (60,0%) apresentaram LSA entre +0,31 a +0,64µm e 19 (27,15%) entre +0,16 a +0,30µm. Não houve correção entre a Km e o Q (r= -0,005 / p= 0,965), assim como entre Km e a LSA (r= 0,167 / p= 0,170). Observou-se correlação (r= 0,962 / p= 0,000) entre as variáveis Q x LSA. Conclusão: Foi observada correlação entre o Q e a LSA da superfície corneana. Não foi observado correlações entre o coeficiente de asfericidade ou aberração esférica longitudinal com a ceratometria média.

Abstract Objective: To correlate the asphericity coefficient (Q) with longitudinal spherical aberration (LSA) of the corneal surface, also correlating each of these variables with the average keratometry Methods: An observational study was conducted by collecting preoperative data from the medical records of individuals candidate cataract surgery, i.e., patient sex and age, as well as Q, LSA of the corneal surface and mean keratometry (Km). Patients who had been subjected to any corneal surgical procedure who would alter Q, LSA and Km measuements were excluded. The corneanl topograph selected, fixedly, a 4.5 mm area of the anterior surface of the cornea for the measurement of Q and LSA, having the pupillary axis as the central point, since the occurrence of LSA is relevant in dim environments in individuals with a pupil wider than 3 mm Results: The sample consisted of 70 eyes of 35 individuals, 24 of them women (68.6%) and 11 men (31.4%) ranging in age from 48 to 89 years (mean: 69.97 ± 8.29). Km ranged from 41.00 to 46.50 D, with a mean of 43.94 ± 1.48D, and mean Q of the corneal surface was -0.15 ± 0.15. Six corneas showed a spherical design (Q= 0.0) and only one showed an aspheric design with Q = -0.50, generating an LSA of 0.0. Mean LSA of the corneal surface was +0.33 ± 0.14 µm. Only one eye showed an LSA equal to 0.0µm, and five showed an LSA of +0.10 to +0.30µm. No eye showed a negative LSA of the corneal surface. There was no correlation between Km and Q (r = -0.005 / p = 0.965) or between Km and LSA (r = 0.167 / p = 0.170). A correlation (r = 0.962 / p = 0.000) was observed between Q and LSA Conclusion: There was a correlation between Q and LSA of the corneal surface. There was no correlation between the sphericity coefficient or longitudinal spherical aberration with the average keratometry.

Intraocular pressure and Schirmer tear test values in maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) / Pressão intraocular e teste lacrimal de Schirmer em lobos-guará (Chrysocyon brachyurus)

The purpose of this study was to establish baseline data on lacrimal quantity (STT-1) and intraocular pressure (IOP) in captive maned wolves. Ten healthy adult maned wolves were contained with a snare pole and muzzle and kept in decubitus of the left side. STT-1 measurement was performed on the lateral third of the lower conjunctival sac for one minute. The cornea was desensitized and intraocular pressure was measured with an tonopen. Average STT-1 in both eyes was 11±5mm.min-1, with no statistical difference between the left and right eye (p=0.960). Average IOP in both eyes was 20±6mmHg, with no statistical difference between the left and right eye (p=0.836). Average STT-1 was lower than, and IOP was the same as normal levels found in dogs. There was no statistical difference in the age of the animals, and STT-1 and IOP values. In the present paper, average maned wolf STT-1 levels were lower compared with those found in dogs, while the IOP was the same in maned wolves as in dogs. Due to the increased incidence in providing emergency care for maned wolf victims of road kill and fires, determination reference values of ocular parameters may improve the correct diagnosis and treatment of the disease.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi estabelecer dados de referência sobre a produção lacrimal (STT-1) e pressão intraocular (PIO) em lobos-guará em cativeiro. Foram utilizados 10 lobos-guará, saudáveis e adultos. Os animais foram contidos com cambão e mordaça e mantidos em decúbito lateral esquerdo. O TLS foi realizado no terço médio da pálpebra inferior, durante um minuto. A córnea foi dessensibilizada e a PIO mensurada com tonopen. A média do TLS-1 dos olhos direitos e esquerdo foi 11±5mm/min, não havendo diferença significativa entre os olhos (p=0,960). A média da PIO dos olhos direitos e esquerdo foi 20±6mmHg, não observando diferença entre os olhos direitos e esquerdos (p=0,836). Média STT-1 foi menor do que, e PIO foi o mesmo que os níveis normais em cães. Não houve diferença estatística na idade dos animais e valores STT-1 e da PIO. No presente trabalho, os níveis médios de guará STT-1 foram mais baixos em comparação com as observadas nos cães, enquanto que a pressão intraocular foi a mesma nos lobos guará como em cães. Devido ao aumento da incidência na prestação de cuidados de emergência para vítimas de lobos-guará atropelamentos e incêndios, determinar os valores de referência dos parâmetros oculares podem melhorar o diagnóstico correto e tratamento de doenças.(AU)

Olfactomedin-like 2 A and B (OLFML2A and OLFML2B) expression profile in primates (human and baboon)

BACKGROUND: The olfactomedin-like domain (OLFML) is present in at least four families of proteins, including OLFML2A and OLFML2B, which are expressed in adult rat retina cells. However, no expression of their orthologous has ever been reported in human and baboon. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of OLFML2A and OLFML2B in ocular tissues of baboons (Papio hamadryas) and humans, as a key to elucidate OLFML function in eye physiology. METHODS: OLFML2A and OLFML2B cDNA detection in ocular tissues of these species was performed by RT-PCR. The amplicons were cloned and sequenced, phylogenetically analyzed and their proteins products were confirmed by immunofluorescence assays. RESULTS: OLFML2A and OLFML2B transcripts were found in human cornea, lens and retina and in baboon cornea, lens, iris and retina. The baboon OLFML2A and OLFML2B ORF sequences have 96% similarity with their human's orthologous. OLFML2A and OLFML2B evolution fits the hypothesis of purifying selection. Phylogenetic analysis shows clear orthology in OLFML2A genes, while OLFML2B orthology is not clear. CONCLUSIONS: Expression of OLFML2A and OLFML2B in human and baboon ocular tissues, including their high similarity, make the baboon a powerful model to deduce the physiological and/or metabolic function of these proteins in the eye.

Reference breast temperature: proposal of an equation / Temperatura de referência das mamas: proposta de uma equação

ABSTRACT Objective To develop an equation to estimate the breast reference temperature according to the variation of room and core body temperatures. Methods Four asymptomatic women were evaluated for three consecutive menstrual cycles. Using thermography, the temperature of breasts and eyes was measured as indirect reference of core body and room temperatures. To analyze the thermal behavior of the breasts during the cycle, the core body and room temperatures were normalized by means of a mathematical equation. Results We performed 180 observations and the core temperature had the highest correlation with the breast temperature, followed by room temperature. The proposed prediction model could explain 45.3% of the breast temperature variation, with variable room temperature variable; it can be accepted as a way to estimate the reference breast temperature at different room temperatures. Conclusion The average breast temperature in healthy women had a direct relation with the core and room temperature and can be estimated mathematically. It is suggested that an equation could be used in clinical practice to estimate the normal breast reference temperature in young women, regardless of the day of the cycle, therefore assisting in evaluation of anatomical studies.

RESUMO Objetivo Desenvolver uma equação de estimativa da temperatura de referência das mamas, de acordo com a variação das temperaturas ambiente e central. Métodos Foram avaliadas quatro mulheres assintomáticas durante três ciclos menstruais consecutivos. Mensuraram-se, por termografia, as temperaturas das mamas e ocular, como referência indireta das temperaturas central e ambiente. Para análise do comportamento térmico durante o ciclo as temperaturas das mamas, foram normalizadas com a temperatura central e ambiente por meio de uma equação matemática. Resultados Foram realizadas 180 observações, sendo que a temperatura central apresentou a maior correlação com a temperatura das mamas, seguida da temperatura ambiente. O modelo de predição proposto conseguiu explicar 45,3% da variação da temperatura das mamas com temperatura ambiente variável podendo ser aceito como uma forma de estimar a temperatura de referência das mesmas em diferentes temperaturas ambientais. Conclusão A temperatura média das mamas em mulheres saudáveis teve relação direta com a temperatura central e ambiente, e pôde ser estimada matematicamente. Sugere-se que uma equação poderia ser utilizada para estimativa da temperatura de referência da mama normal em mulheres, independente do dia do ciclo e, portanto, auxiliar na avaliação de estudos anatômicos.

Um novo olhar da retinopatia hipertensiva: a aplicação prática de novas tecnologias / A new look at hypertensive retinopathy: the practical application of new technologies

O exame de fundo de olho tem importância histórica e mantém sua relevância nos dias atuais, por possibilitar de maneira não invasiva, observar e avaliar o “interior” do corpo humano, além de ser um importante marcador de lesão de órgão-alvo em hipertensos. O surgimento de tecnologias de aquisição de imagens digitais permitiu acessar o fundo de olho de maneira mais simples, com grande definição, muitas vezes não necessitando dilatação da pupila. Isso tornou a observação do fundo de olho, que outrora era realizada apenas por pessoas com treinamento especial, fosse feita com extrema facilidade e quase sem treinamento. Estas “facilidades” permitiram que inúmeros artigos científicos fossem realizados, estabelecendo características do fundo de olho como relevante marcador de lesão de órgão-alvo em hipertensos. A incorporação de tecnologias virtuais na prática da medicina facilitará o acesso dos pacientes, reduzirá custos e certamente irá revolucionar a relação médico-paciente nos próximos anos.

Eye fundus examination is of historical importance, and maintains its relevance nowadays, by enabling non-intrusive observation and evaluation “inside” the human body, as well as being an important marker of target organ damage in hypertensive patients. The emergence of technologies for digital image acquisition have enabled easier access to the eye fundus, with greater definition, and often without having to dilate the pupil. As a result, eye fundusexamination, once carried out only by people with special training, is now performed with extreme ease and almost no training. These “facilities” have led to numerous scientific articles, establishing the characteristics of the eye fundus as a relevant marker of target organ damage in hypertensive patients. The incorporation of virtual technologies into the practiceof medicine will facilitate patient access, reduce costs, and without doubt, revolutionize the doctor-patient relationship in the coming years.

Relação entre a biometria ultrassonográfica ocular e os parâmetros morfométricos do crânio, idade, peso e gênero em gatos domésticos / Relation between opfthalmic ultrasound biometry and the morphometric parameters of the skull, age, weight and gender in domestic cats

O exame ultrassonográfico ocular é indispensável no pré-operatório de procedimentos cirúrgicos intraoculares como a facectomia, além de ser uma ferramenta complementar ao exame oftalmológico, em casos de perda da transparência dos meios ópticos. A inexistência de estudos acerca de padrões de normalidades para as medidas do bulbo ocular e de suas estruturas internas nos gatos, cujos valores possibilitam o monitoramento de enfermidades e auxiliam em procedimentos cirúrgicos motivaram este estudo. Utilizaram-se 40 gatos, adultos, machos e fêmeas, livres de enfermidades sistêmica e oftalmológica. Destes, 22 eram da raça persa (grupo braquicefálico - GB) e 18 sem raça definida (grupo não braquicefálico - GNB). A biometria ultrassonográfica ocular transcorneana foi realizada, em modo-B∕A, com o transdutor microlinear de 9 MHz e as medidas D1 (profundidade da câmara anterior), D2 (diâmetro do cristalino), D3 (profundidade da câmara vítrea) e D4 (diâmetro axial do bulbo ocular) aferidas. Ainda, mensuraram-se as distâncias fronto-occipital e bizigomática e o peso desses animais. Os dados obtidos foram analisados pelo teste-t pareado, seguindo-se as análises de variância e covariância, além da regressão linear múltipla relacionando-se as medidas de D1, D2, D3 e D4 às medidas bizigomática e fronto-occipital, como também à idade, ao peso e ao gênero. Obteve-se como resultado a média de D1, D2, D3 e D4, assim como dos diâmetros bizigomático e fronto-occipital, idade e peso, verificando-se diferenças significativas para D4 nas fêmeas de GB. Houve, pela análise de regressão linear, influência do peso, idade e diâmetro fronto-occipital sobre D1, D2 e D4 nos gatos do GB, e dos diâmetros bizigomático sobre D1, D3 e D4 nos gatos do GNB. Conclui-se que houve diferença no diâmetro axial do bulbo ocular nas fêmeas do GB, e que o peso, a idade e os diâmetros cranianos influenciam a biometria ocular dos gatos braquicefálicos e não braquicefálicos.

Ocular ultrasonography is a helpful ophthalmic examination, performed on the absence of transparency in ocular means and frequently requested prior intraocular surgery. Unfortunately, the lack of studies upon ultrasonografic images of the normal feline eye, difficults the evaluation of its biometry and its inner structures in many ophthalmic diseases and also before surgery. The objective of this study was to evaluate the ocular biometry and the morphometric parameters of the cranium of 40 healthy adult cats, including 22 Persian cats (Brachycephalic group - BG) and 18 Mixed-breed cats (Noun brachycephalic group - NBG). B/A-mode ultrasonographic biometry, utilizing a 9 MHz probe, was performed for depth of the anterior chamber (D1), lens axial length (D2), depth of the vitreous chamber (D3) and axial length of the globe (D4). Morphometric parameters of the cranium were obtained for bizygomatic (BZ) and occipital frontal (OF) diameters. Data was collected and statistical analysis, including "t" paired tests, variance and covariance analysis and multiple linear regressions was performed for every obtained measure and also for animal ages, weigh and gender. Statistic relevant values were observed in D4 parameter for female cats of BG. Multiple linear regression indicated some influence of the weigh, age and OF in D1, D2 and D4 of PG; and of BZ in D1, D3 and D4 of NBG. Besides that, it was observed that biometry was also influenced by weigh, age and morphometric parameters of their craniums in both groups.

Comportamiento de la estabilidad ocular posterior a cirugía de exotropía intermitente / Behaviour of the ocular stability after intermittent exotropia surgery

Objetivo: describir la estabilidad ocular en los pacientes operados de exotropía intermitente y su relación con algunos factores de riesgo. Métodos: se realizó un estudio longitudinal, descriptivo, prospectivo de serie de casos, en pacientes operados de exotropía intermitente en el servicio de Oftalmología Pediátrica del Ramón Pando Ferrer, en el período de enero de 2009 a septiembre de 2011. El universo fue de 35 pacientes con exotropía intermitente con ángulo de desviación preoperatoria ›20 dioptrías prismáticas, valorados al año de la cirugía. Las variables fueron: ángulo de desviación preoperatoria y posoperatoria, edad quirúrgica, la agudeza visual estereoscópica preoperatoria y posoperatoria a los 6 meses y al año de la cirugía y la presencia o no de defecto refractivo. Resultados: el 48,6 por ciento de los pacientes operados de exotropía intermitente estaban alineados a los 6 meses de cirugía, mientras que la estabilidad quirúrgica al año fue de 32,4 por ciento. Todos los paciente que lograron estabilidad ocular después de la cirugía presentaban estereopsia, el 75 por ciento de los pacientes que presentaban buena estereopsia no lograron estabilidad quirúrgica al año. El 100 por ciento de los pacientes de 4 a 5 años tuvieron un buen alineamiento ocular. El 65,6 por ciento de los pacientes presentaron defecto refractivo. Conclusiones: la intervención quirúrgica temprana resulta importante para mejorar el resultado funcional motor. Los pacientes que logran el máximo de estabilidad del alineamiento ocular tienen buena agudeza visual estereoscópica. No existe relación significativa entre el defecto refractivo y el logro de la estabilidad del alineamiento ocular

Objective: to describe the ocular stability of patients undergoing intermittent exotropia surgery and its relationship with some risk factors. Methods: a longitudinal, prospective, and descriptive case series study was conducted in patients undergoing intermittent exotropia surgery at pediatric ophthalmology service of Pando Ferrer Cuban Institute of Ophthalmology in the period of January 2009 to September 2011. The universe of study was 35 patients with intermittent exotropia and preoperative deviation angle of ? 20 diopters, measured one year after surgery. The variables were deviation angle preoperatively and postoperatively, age at surgery, stereoscopic visual acuity preoperatively and postoperatively, at 6 months and one year later, and the presence or absence of refractive error. Results: iIn this group, 48.6 percent of patients who underwent intermittent exotropia surgery showed eye alignment at 6 months, whereas surgical stability after a year was 32.4 percent. All the patients who achieved stability after ocular surgery had stereopsis, 75 percent of the patients, who showed good stereopsis, failed in reaching surgical stability one year later. All the patients aged 4 to 5 years had a good eye alignment and 65.7 percent of patients had refractive error. Conclusions: early surgical intervention is important in improving motor functional outcome. The patients who achieve the maximum stability in ocular alignment have good stereoscopic visual acuity. There is no significant relationship between refractive error and the stability of eye alignment

Efficacy and Tolerability of GenTeal® Gel in Post-menopausal Women with Moderate to Severe Dry Eye: Results of a Post Marketing Observational Study.

Purpose: To assess the effectiveness and tolerability of GenTeal® gel in post-menopausal patients with moderate to severe dry eye. Methods: This was an open label, multicenter, non-comparative, non-interventional, observational study in post-menopausal women patients of age 39-82 years with moderate to severe dry eye. The patients were treated with GenTeal® gel for 20 weeks and assessed for effectiveness at baseline, 10-12 weeks and at 20 weeks. The primary effectiveness outcomes were changes in ocular symptoms (foreign body sensation, itching, burning, watering, photophobia, feeling of dryness in the eye), tear break up time (TBUT), Schirmer, fluorescein corneal staining score and global assessment for efficacy on dry eye condition. The secondary objective of the study was to evaluate ocular tolerance and systemic safety of the product. Results: A total of 169 out of 170 enrolled patients completed the study. At 20 weeks of treatment, the median composite ocular symptoms scores was reduced by 78% from baseline (median; 2.0 vs 9.0 of baseline, p<0.0001). All ocular symptoms except photophobia were significantly reduced (p<0.05) at 20 weeks of treatment. At 20 weeks, TBUT and schirmer scores were significantly increased by 39.9% and 48.6% respectively (p < 0.0001); while fluorescein staining cumulative score was significantly decreased (100.0%, p < 0.0001) from their baseline. The overall efficacy and ocular tolerability of GenTeal® gel, was ‘good’ to ‘excellent’ for >98.0% of the subjects. Adverse events of mild dyspepsia and frequent micturition of moderate intensity were reported by a subject. Conclusions: The findings of the present study indicate that GenTeal® gel treatment is an effective and tolerable treatment for dry eye in post-menopausal women patients in Indian clinical practice.

Precision and accuracy of the RKT 7700 noncontact tonometer

To assess the precision of the Nidek RKT 7700 noncontact tonometer in a sub-population of healthy, young, oculovisual normals. Two sets of intraocular pressure measurements were made, for one randomized eye of sixty-six [twenty men] subjects, approximately one week apart. Goldmann tonometry was performed subsequent to assessment with the RKT 7700 to negate the 'ocular massage effect'. The four average intraocular pressures measured in both sessions were compared using repeated-measures ANOVA. Each method was assessed twice for repeatability and once for reproducibility. [Between sessions by the same clinician]. The limits of agreement between both methods were assessed once in each session. The level of statistical significance was 0.05. Both methods returned similar repeatability [ +/- 1.6 mmHg and +/- 1.5 mmHg, +/- 1.8 mmHg and +/- 2.1 mmHg for 1st session RKT 7700, 2nd RKT 7700, 1st Goldmann and 2ndGoldmann, respectively], and reproducibility indices [ +/- 3.0 mmHg and +/-4.1 mmHg, for the RKT 7700 and Goldmann, respectively]. The mean differences [ +/- SD] between methods [0.6 +/- 2.7mmHg and 0.5 +/- 2.4mmHg, for the first and second sessions respectively] were not statistically significant, with the intraocular pressure measured with the RKT 7700 tonometer consistently lower pressure values than the Goldmann tonometer. The RKT 7700 non-contact tonometer is considered a precise method of assessing intraocular pressure in healthy, young, oculovisual normals, and it can be used interchangeably with the Goldmann in this sub-population

Effects of anti-glaucoma drugs on resistive index of the medial long posterior ciliary artery using color Doppler imaging in Beagle dogs

Color Doppler imaging (CDI) was carried out to evaluate the effects of anti-glaucoma drugs on ophthalmic circulation using CDI-derived resistive index (RI) values. CDI was performed on nine Beagle dogs, and RI values were calculated for the medial long posterior ciliary artery before and after the administration of anti-glaucoma drugs. A significant increase in RI values was found after topical administration of levobunolol (p < 0.05) or dipivefrin (p < 0.05). Pilocarpine showed no effects on RI values after topical administration. The results suggest that some anti-glaucoma drugs could affect ophthalmic blood flow.

Bionic model for coordinated head-eye motion control / 生物医学工程学杂志

The relationships between eye movements and head movements of the primate during gaze shifts are analyzed in detail in the present paper. Applying the mechanisms of neurophysiology to engineering domain, we have improved the robot eye-head coordination. A bionic control strategy of coordinated head-eye motion was proposed. The processes of gaze shifts are composed of an initial fast phase followed by a slow phase. In the fast phase saccade eye movements and slow head movements were combined, which cooperate to bring gaze from an initial resting position toward the new target rapidly, while in the slow phase the gaze stability and target fixation were ensured by the action of the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) where the eyes and head rotate by equal amplitudes in opposite directions. A bionic gaze control model was given. The simulation results confirmed the effectiveness of the model by comparing with the results of neurophysiology experiments.

Prevalencia de disfunciones visomotoras y visoperceptuales en niños entre cinco y nueve años de colegios de las localidades de Fontibón, Puente Aranda y Usaquén / Prevalence of visualmotor and visualperceptual dysfunctions

Objetivo: determinar la prevalencia de disfunciones visomotoras y visoperceptuales en niños entre 5 y 9 años de las localidades de Fontibón, Puente Aranda y Usaquén. Metodología: se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal. Se evaluaron 128 pacientes, que estudiaban en colegios representativos de cada localidad. A cada niño se le aplicó el test TVPS-3 y Beery VMI. El análisis estadístico se realizó por tablas de contingencia. Resultados: la prevalencia de disfunciones visomotoras fue de 20,5% (9/44) para el Colegio Pablo Neruda, de Fontibón; 31.6% (12/38) para el Colegio España, de Puente Aranda, y 8,7% (4/46) para el Colegio de La Salle, de Usaquén. La prevalencia de disfunciones visoperceptuales encontradas fue de 47,7% (21/44) para el Colegio Pablo Neruda,de Fontibón; 68,4 % (26/38) para el Colegio España,de Puente Aranda, y 8,7% (4/46) para el Colegio de La Salle, de Usaquén. Conclusiones: la prevalencia de disfunciones visomotoras y visoperceptuales fue mayor en las localidades de Fontibón y Puente Aranda que en la localidad de Usaquén.

Objective: to determine the prevalence of visual motor and visual perceptual dysfunctions in children between 5 and 9 years of Fontibón, Puente Aranda and Usaquén towns. Methods: it was made a transversal descriptive study in which were evaluated 128 patients with the TVPS-3 and Beery VMI tests. The statistic analysis was done by contingency charts, chi square y association degree with Rho Spearman´s correlation coefficient Results: the prevalence of visual-motor dysfunctions was: 20.5% for Pablo Neruda school of Fontibon, 31.6% for España School of Puente Aranda y 8.7% for De La Salle School of Usaquén.The prevalence of visoperceptual dysfunctions was: 52.6% for Pablo Neruda School of Fontibon,66.6% for España School of Puente Aranda and 14.2%for De La Salle School of Usaquén. The spearman´s rho showed that there is a low but significant correlation coefficient between the test results; it means that, as one test score high, the other one is high too.Conclusions: the prevalence of visual motor and visualperceptual dysfunctions was major in Fontibón and Puente Aranda than Usaquén.

A six-rhabdomere, open rhabdom arrangement in the eye of the chrysanthemum beetle Phytoecia rufiventris: some ecophysiological predictions based on eye anatomy

We are describing a rhabdom organization of the eye of the chrysanthemum beetle Phytoecia rufiventris that to date has not been described from any other insect. In cerambycid beetles free rhabdomeres, forming a circular, open rhabdom, surround a central rhabdom made up of the rhabdomeres of one or two cells. In Phytoecia rufiventris the central rhabdomeres are missing throughout the eye and the microvilli of the outer 6 rhabdomeres are regularly oriented in three directions. Following the classification of rhabdom types suggested by Wachmann (1979), we suggest to name the rhabdom arrangement seen in the retina of Phytoecia rufiventris [quot ]Grundmuster 3[quot ]. This pattern ought to facilitate polarization sensitivity and movement perception, features that agree with the behavioural repertoire of Phytoecia rufiventris.

Relación de la radiación ultravioleta y el pterigión primario: [revisión] / Relation of ultraviolet radiation and primary pterygium: [review]

El pterigión está presente a nivel mundial, pero es más común en climas cálidos y secos, predomina en países comprendidos entre 0º y 30º de latitud norte y sur. Existe evidencia epidemiológica en estudios poblacionales experimentales y observacionales que confirman que la radiación ultravioleta es el desencadenante inicial en la aparición del pterigión y un factor de riesgo significativo en su desarrollo. Los fenómenos físicos y climatológicos que explican la patogenia del pterigión son poco conocidos. La epidemiología del pterigión es una herramienta básica para conocer tanto su incidencia como su prevalencia. A partir de esta revisión nos propusimos reflexionar acerca del pterigión como marcador del grado de insolación del organismo y enfatizar en cuanto a la importancia de protección ante la posible exposición a la radiación ultravioleta en el resultado final de una cirugía de pterigión.

Pterygium is present worldwide but it is more common in dry warm climates and predominates in countries situated 0º and 30º on North and South latitudes. There are epidemiological pieces of evidence in experimental and observational population studies that confirm that ultraviolet radiation is the initial unleashing factor in occurrence of pterygium and a significant risk factor for its development. The physical and climate phenomena accounting for the pathogeny of pterygium are almost unknown. Pterygium epidemiology is a basic tool for identifying its incidence and prevalence. On the basis of this review, we intended to make reflections on pterygium as a marker of degree of insolation of the human body and to emphasize the importance of protection against possible exposure to ultraviolet radiations in the final outcome of pterygium surgery.

Mudanças oculares durante a gestação / Ocular changes during pregnancy

A gestação pode causar várias alterações no funcionamento do olho humano, tanto nas condições sistêmicas quanto em doenças oculares, sendo seus efeitos divididos em três categorias: alterações fisiológicas, mudanças em doenças oculares pré-existentes e alterações patológicas. O presente texto propõe uma revisão bibliográfica sobre o tema. Os autores pesquisaram os bancos de dados do PubMed (MEDLINE) e LILACS.

Pregnancy can cause several alterations in human eye function in healthy condition as well in ocular disease; these effects on the eyes are divided into three categories: physiologic alterations, ocular diseases changes already existing before the pregnancy, and pathological alterations. The present text proposes a bibliographical revision on the theme. The authors researched PubMed (MEDLINE) and LILACS databases.

Retinoblastoma unilateral estadio III en pre-escolar: a propósito de un caso Hospital Central Dr. José María Vargas San Cristobal marzo 2008 Edo. Táchira-Venezuela / Unilateral retinoblastoma stage III in pre-school: a purpose of case Hospital Central Dr. José María Vargas San Cristobal in march 2008 state Táchira-Venezuela

El retinoblastoma comprende el 4 por ciento de tumoraciones malignas en edad pediátrica con una incidencia de 1 por cada 20000 niños vivos y en USA se presenta por año entre 250-300 niños, 50-95 por ciento sobreviven a nivel mundial, no hay predisposición por sexo o raza y entre ellos 25-35 por ciento se presentan en forma bilateral, la edad aproximada para el diagnóstico varia en las formas unilaterales alrededor de los 12 meses hasta las formas bilaterales a los 24 meses. Preescolar femenino de 4 años de edad natural de Socopó, procedente de El Piñal quien inicia enfermedad actual de 2 años de evolución caracterizada por la presencia de masa tumoral en ojo izquierdo la cual se incrementa en los últimos 4 meses llegando hasta la protrusión del globo ocular y de 6 días limitación para la oclusión, rubor en párpado superior izquierdo y fiebre. Asimetría ocular, protrusión del globo ocular izquierdo, limitación para la apertura, hifema y no se visualiza córnea, pupilas ni el iris. Es evaluada por el servicio de Oftalmología: OI: Blefarospasmo reactivo, eritema bipalpebral y edema que limitan la apertura ocular. Biomicrooscopia: Quemosis conjuntival en 360 con salida de secreción purulenta a nivel temporal de la conjuntiva, pannus corneal periférico en banda cálcica, opacidad de medios transparentes. LDH 267 UI/I. Ultrasonido Ocular: globo ocular izquierdo: faquico, con lesión sólida localizada en pared ocular extendiéndose anteriormente, sin movilidad, con ecos de alta reflectividad en su interior con sombrado posterior de pared ocular. TAC de cráneo y órbita: imagen radiólucida que infiltra globo ocular izquierdo sin compromiso del nervio óptico, resto sin anormalidad, TAC de tórax y abdomen: normal, Ecosonograma Abdominal: normal, Gammagrama Óseo: normal. Se realizó exanteración de la órbita del globo ocular izquierdo. Biopsia que microscópicamente evidencia tumor infiltra todas las capas con microscopia donde evidencia pseudoresetas en masa tumoral.