Abstract: The present invention relates to lenses that are capable of post-fabrication power modifications. In general, the inventive lenses comprise (i) a first polymer matrix and (ii) a refraction modulating composition that is capable of stimulus-induced polymerization dispersed therein. When at least a portion of the lens is exposed to an appropriate stimulus, the refraction modulating composition forms a second polymer matrix. The amount and location of the second polymer matrix may modify a lens characteristic such as lens power by changing its refractive index and/or by altering its shape. The inventive lenses have a number of applications in the electronics and medical fields as data storage means and as medical lenses, particularly intraocular lenses, respectively.

Abstract: The present invention relates to lenses that are capable of post-fabrication power modifications. In general, the inventive lenses comprise (i) a first polymer matrix and (ii) a refraction modulating composition that is capable of stimulus-induced polymerization dispersed therein. When at least a portion of the lens is exposed to an appropriate stimulus, the refraction modulating composition forms a second polymer matrix. The amount and location of the second polymer matrix may modify a lens characteristic such as lens power by changing its refractive index and/or by altering its shape. The inventive lenses have a number of applications in the electronics and medical fields as data storage means and as medical lenses, particularly intraocular lenses, respectively.

Abstract: The present invention involves the discovery that synthetic thyroid hormones can be used as compositions to reduce intraocular pressure in vivo. Methods of screening synthetic thyroid hormones for effect on intraocular pressure, aqueous pressure, hydraulic conductivity, hyaluronic acid secretion, and extracellular matrix assembly are provided. Methods of treating glaucoma and treating excess intraocular pressure with synthetic thyroid hormones and compositions therefore are also provided.

Abstract: A method for evaluating the effectiveness of adjustable optical implants is provided The implants are first inserted into a test subject. The implant is then exposed to an external stimulus, such as light, to induce a change in the properties of the implant. The implants are then evaluated to determine the nature and extent of the change in properties.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for creating shaped implants, such as intraocular lenses in vivo, as well as the novel implants themselves. Utilizing the method of the invention, it is possible to create an implant in vivo and to adjust either the physical properties such as refractive index, viscosity, etc., mechanical properties such as modulus, tensile strength, tear, etc., or the shape of the implant by noninvasive means. For example, using the method of the patent it is possible to create an intraocular lens in vivo and then adjust the shape and power of the lens through no invasion means. The novel implants are also addressed in this application.

Abstract: The present invention relates to lenses that are capable of post-fabrication power modifications. In general, the inventive lenses comprise (i) a first polymer matrix and (ii) a refraction modulating composition that is capable of stimulus-induced polymerization dispersed therein. When at least a portion of the lens is exposed to an appropriate stimulus, the refraction modulating composition forms a second polymer matrix. The amount and location of the second polymer matrix may modify a lens characteristic such as lens power by changing its refractive index and/or by altering its shape. The inventive lenses have a number of applications in the electronics and medical fields as data storage means and as medical lenses, particularly intraocular lenses, respectively.

Abstract: Described are compositions, methods, and articles of manufacture for the closure of retinal breaks with a non-toxic polymer. Transformation to a gel-like coat is achieved by photochemical reactivity, chemical reactivity, and by physicochemical response.

Abstract: The present invention relates to lenses that are capable of post-fabrication power modifications. In general, the inventive lenses comprise (i) a first polymer matrix and (ii) a refraction modulating composition that is capable of stimulus-induced polymerization dispersed therein. When at least a portion of the lens is exposed to an appropriate stimulus, the refraction modulating composition forms a second polymer matrix. The amount and location of the second polymer matrix may modify a lens characteristic such as lens power by changing its refractive index and/or by altering its shape. The inventive lenses have a number of applications in the electronics and medical fields as data storage means and as medical lenses, particularly intraocular lenses, respectively.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for modeling disease transitions in individuals includes the steps of identifying a population of individuals and defining a disease transition they could undergo. One or more variables are defined that represent medical information collected from these individuals. These variables are considered candidate variables that operate to predict the disease transition to varying degrees of accuracy. A logistic regression technique, along with information stored in an electronic database, are used to determine the degree of accuracy to which each candidate variable predicts the disease transition for the population of individuals. Certain candidate variables are then chosen according to how accurately they predict the disease transition. This set of chosen variables is then used to form a mathematical model, which in turn is used to predict this disease transition for that population of individuals.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of implementing an optical element having a refraction modulating composition. The methods include using a wavefront sensor to provide an optical measurement of the optical element. The present invention also relates to systems comprising an optical element having a refraction modulating composition and a wavefront sensor.

Abstract: Described are compositions, methods, and articles of manufacture for the closure of retinal breaks with a non-toxic polymer. Transformation to a gel-like coat is achieved by photochemical reactivity, chemical reactivity, and by physicochemical response.

Abstract: The present invention involves the discovery that synthetic thyroid hormones can be used as compositions to reduce intraocular pressure in vivo. Methods of screening synthetic thyroid hormones for effect on intraocular pressure, aqueous pressure, hydraulic conductivity, hyaluronic acid secretion, and extracellular matrix assembly are provided. Methods of treating glaucoma and treating excess intraocular pressure with synthetic thyroid hormones and compositions therefore are also provided.

Abstract: A method of producing local anesthesia in a mammal experiencing pain in an epithelial tissue region is described. The method includes topically administering to the region, in a suitable pharmaceutical vehicle, an effective dose of a long-acting sodium channel blocking compound.

Abstract: An improved viscosurgical method involving the administration of a viscoelastic and a corresponding degradative agent, such that the post-operative intraocular pressure spike often observed following the use of viscoelastics in ophthalmic surgery is minimized, and an apparatus and clinical kit useful in the method are provided.

Abstract: An ophthalmic lance includes a retractable blade and a sheath, the retractable blade can only be exposed when a button is pressed down. The blade is attached to a spring loaded stem so that when the button is released, the blade is automatically retracted back into the sheath. Pressure on the button at the end of the stem or on the locking pin causes the blade to be exposed. As soon as that pressure is released the blade is automatically retracted back up into the sheath. The sheath has an H-shaped cutout in which a locking pin fits in and can slide about. The locking pin is coupled to the stem. The H-shaped cutout has a short-leg, a long-leg and a cross-bar so that when the locking pin is inside of the short-leg, the blade is in the locked position and when the locking pin is inside of the long-leg, the stem can be depressed and the blade exposed.

Abstract: This invention relates to a steerable articulation coupler for effecting rapid connection of the two sections of a ground vehicle. The coupler also provides for rapid automatic connection of the power transmission shaft. The coupler consists of a socket member and an insertion member. The insertion member includes a forward semi-spherical support surface, a rearward large diameter support surface, a guide receptacle and a set of alignment members. Counterparts on the socket member cooperate with the insertion member to align the two members.