bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Positive selection signatures in Anqing six‐end‐white pig population based on reduced‐representation genome sequencing data
Authors: Guo L. , Sun H. , Zhao Q. , Xu Z. , Zhang Z. , Liu D. , Qadri Q. R. , Ma P. , Wang Q. , Pan Y.
Published: January 2021

Anqing six‐end‐white (AQ) pig performs well on resistance to coarse fodder and disease, reproduction and meat quality, offering high potential for exploitation. Environmental conditions and strict selections from local farmers have cultivated the AQ pig to be an outstanding and unique local pig breed. Thus we aim to detect genetic positive selection signatures within the AQ pig population to explore underlying genetic mechanisms. A relative extended haplotype homozygosity (REHH) test was performed in the population of 79 AQ pigs to seek evidence demonstrating that selective actions have left an imprint on the whole genome. In total, 430 500 REHH tests were performed on 53 067 core regions with average REHH tests of 8.11, average lengths of 11.50 kb and an overall length of 610.38 Mb which accounted for 26.94% of the whole genome. Finally, a total of 1819 core haplotypes (P < 0.01) and 586 candidate genes were obtained. These genes were mainly related to meat quality (MYOG, SNX19), resistance to disease (CRISPLD2, CD14) and reproduction traits (ERBB2, NRP2). A panel of genes within the 30 top significant REHH tests was mainly categorized to traits of meat quality and disease resistance. Among 13 KEGG pathways, MAPK, GnRH and Oxytocin signaling pathways, associated with the biological processes of crucial economic traits, were noteworthy. The excellent characteristics of the AQ pig benefited from the combination of natural and human factors. We provide a sketch map that shows the distribution of selection footprints on the whole genome of AQ pig and found potential genes for future studies.
Ward round checklist improves patient perception of care
Authors: Read Joshua , Perry William , Rossaak Jeremy I.
Published: January 2021

Background

Checklists have been shown to reduce morbidity and mortality in medicine by improving documentation and reducing errors. In the modern era of care, where patients are the centre of decision‐making, this study examines patient perception of care and error prevention with the use of ward round checklist.

Methods

We conducted a prospective stepped‐wedge cluster randomized controlled checklist intervention study using a standardized questionnaire to investigate patients' perception of ward rounds before and after implementation of a ward round checklist.

Results

A total of 124 patients completed the questionnaire. The overall percentage of items endorsed increased significantly by 5.1% from 64.8% to 70.0% (P = 0.014). Statistically significant improvements were seen in patients knowing their diagnosis (P = 0.027), the day's plan (P = 0.038), observing a medication chart (P < 0.001) and observation chart review (P = 0.008).

Conclusion

Our study indicates that the use of a ward round checklist leads to patient‐perceived improvements in aspects of quality of care.
The use of computer‐aided design/ computer‐aided manufacturing technologies in the treatment of Graves' orbitopathy
Authors: Petrenko Oksana , Prusak Olha
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To study the advantages of using Computer‐Aided Design (CAD)/Computer‐Aided Manufacturing (CAM) technologies in the treatment of Graves Orbitopathy (GO).

Methods

Research analysis of contemporary scientific medical publications on the subject, The 2018 European Group on Graves ‘Orbitopathy Guidelines for the Management of Graves’ Orbitopathy (EUGOGO), Philips Diamond Select Brilliance CT64, software environment Sim Plant 13.02 and Geomagic Freeform Plus.

Results

Graves Orbitopathy (GO) is an autoimmune disease that results in dysteroid optic neuropathy (DON) in 3–5% of patients and progressive vision loss. According to the recommendations of EUGOGO 2018, orbital decompression is performed at the first stage of surgical treatment as scheduled with moderate inactive GO or immediately in patients with DON and/or rupture of the cornea with the involvement of a multidisciplinary team of radiodiagnosis, endocrinologist, ophthalmologist and maxillofacial surgeon. To increase the volume of bone orbit, surgeons extend the medial, lateral walls of the orbit, or the floor of the orbit, and remove a certain amount of infraorbital fat, but the only correct approach to date has not been determined (EUGOGO 2016). Given the need for an individual approach to the patient, the use of CAD/CAM technology to obtain three‐dimensional models of the skull expands the ability to study the features of the anatomy of the walls of the orbit, its volume, planning of surgery.

Conclusions

The result of a carefully planned orbit decompression using CAD/CAM technology is not only the reduction of intraocular pressure and exophthalmos for optimal treatment, but also the reduction of intraoperative complications (traumatization of the neurovascular bundles, muscles, etc.), shortening the duration of surgery.
A Delphi consensus to address unmet needs in the management of patients at risk of age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Layana Alfredo García , Garhofer Gerhard , Minnella Angelo Maria
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Provide recommendations on preventive measures to adopt and follow‐up needed for patients at low, moderate and high risk of AMD using a Delphi consensus process.

Methods

A Steering Committee drafted 25 statements on preventive measures and follow‐up for patients at risk of AMD; 14 comprised general recommendations, evaluation tools, lifestyle advice, and AREDS supplementation; based on STARS® score (1) (moderate, score 10–19; high, score ≥20), age (50–70 and >70) and AREDS classification (2), there were 5 statements for subjects at moderate risk of AMD and 6 for those at high risk. A panel of 30 experts voted on their level of agreement with the statements using an online platform.

Results

In the first round, consensus was reached for 24 of the 25 statements. Among specific recommendations, it was held that the STARS® questionnaire and AREDS classification should be used to evaluate risk of AMD and define the best prevention strategy. In addition, all subjects at risk of AMD should be advised to stop smoking, adopt a Mediterranean diet and carry out regular physical activity. It was agreed that an AREDS‐based formulation significantly reduces the overall risk of moderate vision loss and developing advanced AMD in the long term. Subjects with moderate STARS® score, AREDS category 2, and 55–70 years of age should be asked to carry out self‐monitoring and have follow‐up every 2–3 years. Those with the same risk profile but with age >70 years should carry out self‐monitoring, be recommended specific nutritional supplements, and have annual follow‐up. All subjects with high‐risk and either AREDS category 1 or 2 over the age of 55 should be asked to carry out self‐monitoring. Patients with high‐risk STARS® score, AREDS category 1 and age >70 years should be recommended specific nutritional supplements, as should high‐risk subjects with AREDS category 2 >55 years. Independently of age, high‐risk subjects with AREDS category 2 should undergo follow‐up every 6 months.

Conclusions

These new consensus statements on preventive measures and follow‐up for patients at low, moderate and high risk of AMD can provide additional guidance for clinicians in routine practice.

References

1. Delcourt C, et al. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2017;58(14):6399–6407.

2. AREDS Research Group. Arch Ophthalmol. 2001;119(10):1417–36.
Internal limiting membrane peeling during vitrectomy for idiopathic epiretinal membrane: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Christodoulou Eleni , Batsos Georgios , Christou Evita Evangelia , Paroikakis Efstratios , Karagiannis Dimitrios , Kontomichos Lukas , Stefaniotou Maria
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To study the effect of internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling in removal of idiopathic epiretinal membranes (ERMs) through meta‐analysis.

Methods

We searched PubMed for studies published until 30/4/2018. Inclusion criteria included cases of idiopathic epiretinal membranes, treated with vitrectomy with or without ILM peel. Exclusion criteria consisted of coexisting retinal pathologies and use of ICG to stain the ILM. We conducted a meta‐analysis of 16 published studies as well as a case series of 50 eyes with epiretinal membrane (ERM) treated in our department. We compared the results of surgical removal of epiretinal membrane, with or without ILM peel, in terms of best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and anatomical restoration of the macula (central foveal thickness—CFT). Studies or subgroups of patients that had indocyanine green (ICG) used as an ILM stain were excluded from the study, due to evidence of its retinal toxicity.

Results

There was a consistency in results for post‐operative/pre‐operative BCVA and CFT levels in both groups of patients (with or without ILM peel). In all cases, we found a statistically significant increase (p < 0.05) in post‐operative BCVA and decrease (p < 0.05) in post‐operative CFT levels versus pre‐operative levels.

Conclusions

Vitrectomy for the removal of ERM combined with ILM peeling is an effective method for the treatment of patients with idiopathic ERM.
Sharing sound: Avian acoustic niches in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Authors: Kleyn Tristan , da Cruz Kaizer Mariane , Passos Luiza F.
Published: January 2021

In tropical birds, survival is dependent on the ability to effectively communicate with others against a background of high ambient noise. The Acoustic Niche Hypothesis proposes that the deterrent selective force of signal masking has caused animals sharing a habitat to partition their calling behavior among the acoustic bandwidths available, so as to minimize interference between one another. Whether and why species share the so‐called “acoustic space” remains a gap in our understanding of animal ecosystems. The aim of this study was to investigate differences between the acoustic structure of avian communities in two distinct habitats in the montane tropical forests of the Caparaó National Park in south‐eastern Brazil, and to test whether the distribution of birdsong at each conformed to the ANH. Birdsong from nine hours of passive acoustic recordings at each study site was analyzed using principal component analyses. The results contradicted the ANH, revealing strikingly similar patterns of synchronized vocal behavior (WAleixo = 0.63, p < 0.0001, RA = 0.48; WSanta Marta = 0.66, p < 0.0001, RSM = 0.41). No correlation was evident between the acoustic and temporal partitioning behavior of songbirds (pA » 0.05, dfA = 55; pSM » 0.05; dfSM = 27). This study provides a novel comparative analysis of the acoustic dynamics in two separate and diverse avian communities and support for theories of synchronized vocal behavior in such groups.

Abstract in Portuguese is available with online material.
In vitro systems: A new window to the segmentation clock
Authors: Diaz‐Cuadros Margarete , Pourquie Olivier
Published: January 2021

Segmental organization of the vertebrate body plan is established by the segmentation clock, a molecular oscillator that controls the periodicity of somite formation. Given the dynamic nature of the segmentation clock, in vivo studies in vertebrate embryos pose technical challenges. As an alternative, simpler models of the segmentation clock based on primary explants and pluripotent stem cells have recently been developed. These ex vivo and in vitro systems enable more quantitative analysis of oscillatory properties and expand the experimental repertoire applicable to the segmentation clock. Crucially, by eliminating the need for model organisms, in vitro models allow us to study the segmentation clock in new species, including our own. The human oscillator was recently recapitulated using induced pluripotent stem cells, providing a window into human development. Certainly, a combination of in vivo and in vitro work holds the most promising potential to unravel the mechanisms behind vertebrate segmentation.
Neuroendocrine and neuroimmune responses in male and female rats: evidence for functional immaturity of the neuroimmune system during early adolescence
Authors: Marsland Paige , Parrella Allissa , Orlofsky Maya , Lovelock Dennis F. , Vore Andrew S. , Varlinskaya Elena I. , Deak Terrence
Published: January 2021

Adolescence is a developmental period characterized by rapid behavioral and physiological changes, including enhanced vulnerability to stress. Recent studies using rodent models of adolescence have demonstrated age differences in neuroendocrine responses and blunted neuroimmune responding to pharmacological challenges. The present study was designed to test whether this neuroimmune insensitivity would generalize to a non‐pharmacological stress challenge. Male and female adolescent (P29‐33) and adult (P70‐80) Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to intermittent footshock for one‐, two‐, or two‐hours + recovery. Plasma corticosterone and progesterone levels as well as gene expression of several cytokines and c‐Fos gene expression in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN), the medial amygdala (MeA), and the ventral hippocampus (vHPC) were analyzed. The results of the present study demonstrated differences in response to footshock, with these differences dependent on age, sex, and brain region of interest. Adult males and females demonstrated time‐dependent increases in IL‐1β and IL‐1R2 in the PVN, with these changes not evident in adolescent males and substantially blunted in adolescent females. TNFα expression was decreased in all regions of interest, with adults demonstrating more suppression relative to adolescents and age differences more apparent in males than in females. IL‐6 expression was affected by footshock predominantly in the vHPC of adolescent and adult males and females, with females demonstrating prolonged elevation of IL‐6 gene expression. In summary, central cytokine responses to acute stressor exposure are blunted in adolescent rats, with the most pronounced immaturity evident for the brain IL‐1 signaling system.
Genetic biomarkers for intravenous immunoglobulin response in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy
Authors: Kuitwaard Krista , van Doorn Pieter A. , Bengrine Thiziri , van Rijs Wouter , Baas Frank , Nagelkerke Sietse Q. , Kuijpers Taco W. , Fokkink Willem‐Jan R. , Bunschoten Carina , Broers Merel C. , Willemsen Sten P. , Jacobs Bart C. , Huizinga Ruth
Published: January 2021

Background and purpose

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) is a clinical and electrophysiological heterogeneous immune‐mediated polyneuropathy. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), corticosteroids, and plasma exchange are proven effective treatments for CIDP. The clinical response to IVIg is variable between patients and currently unexplained. Finding biomarkers related to treatment response can help to understand the diversity of CIDP and personalise treatment choice.

Methods

We investigated whether genetic variation between patients may explain some of these differences in treatment response. Based on previous publications, we selected six candidate genes that might affect immune and axonal functions, IVIg metabolism, and treatment response in CIDP. Genetic variants were assessed in 172 CIDP patients treated with at least one course of IVIg (2 g/kg). A response to IVIg was defined by ≥1 grade improvement on the modified Rankin Scale. Blood samples were tested for variations in CNTN2, PRF1, FCGRT, FCGR2B, GJB1, and SH2D2A genes.

Results

In univariate analysis, patients with the FCGR2B promoter variant 2B.4/2B.1 responded more often to IVIg than patients with the 2B.1/2B.1 variant (odds ratio [OR] = 6.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.6–30; p = 0.003). Patients with the p.(Ala91Val) variant of PRF1 were less often IVIg responsive (OR = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.13–0.91; p = 0.038). In multivariate analysis, both PRF1 and FCGR2B showed discriminative ability to predict the chance of IVIg response (area under the curve = 0.67).

Conclusions

Variations in PRF1 and the promoter region of FCGR2B are associated with the response to IVIg in CIDP. These findings, which require validation, are a first step towards the understanding of the heterogeneity in the treatment response in CIDP.
Enhancing Caregiving in Traumatized Families: An Attachment‐Centered Approach to Working with Parent Groups
Authors: Pitillas Carlos , Berástegui Ana
Published: January 2021

This paper outlines a model of attachment‐centered group interventions to enhance caregiving among parents suffering from early trauma and/or social hardship. Groups are understood as an essential source of experiences that may restore traumatized adults’ relational security, and enhance their parenting capacities, in face of biographical and contextual factors that compromise caregiving. The model is especially suited for intervention within social service/child protection contexts and with families that struggle to establish trusting alliances with professionals and institutions. Proposed intervention strategies are oriented toward making the group function as an attachment figure that meets parents’ attachment and exploration needs and enhances parental sensitivity. Group therapists facilitate two sets of group processes: on the one hand, a sense of togetherness, emotional containment, protection and comfort (related to attachment needs); on the other hand, the development of parental mentalization, the revision of parental representations of the child, and the consolidation of parenting competence (related to exploration needs). A theoretical rationale for working with parent groups from an attachment‐centered perspective, the basic intervention principles and specific strategies of the model are presented and illustrated.
The role of P2P platforms in enhancing financial inclusion in the United States: An analysis of peer‐to‐peer lending across the rural–urban divide
Authors: Maskara Pankaj Kumar , Kuvvet Emre , Chen Gengxuan
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we examine the role of peer‐to‐peer (P2P) platforms in enhancing financial inclusion from the borrowers’ point of view across the rural–urban dimension. We show that when number of bank branches decrease in a rural community, the P2P loan requests increase if there is at least one bank branch in the community allowing people to participate in the P2P market. We also find that the number of P2P loan requests from urban areas is higher when such areas have fewer pawnshops per capita. Our results suggest that P2P enhances financial inclusion of those lacking traditional institutions in rural communities and offers an alternative to those with fewer fringe banks in urban communities.
How do university systems' features affect academic inbreeding? Career rules and language requirements in France, Germany, Italy and Spain
Authors: Seeber Marco , Mampaey Jelle
Published: January 2021

Studies on academic inbreeding have mostly focused on institutional inbreeding and its negative effects, whereas little research has explored its causes. We identify current explanations of the macro‐, meso‐ and micro‐level factors that sustain academic inbreeding as well as research gaps. We address a main research gap regarding what macro‐level factors contribute to academic inbreeding, by analysing systems’ norms and rules regulating access to senior academic positions and teaching language requirements in France, Germany, Italy and Spain, the largest public university systems of the European Union. The analysis reveals that career rules designed to guarantee quality may have unintended effects in terms of academic inbreeding. Most importantly, the habilitation procedures pose greater challenges to international candidates and often increase barriers between disciplines as well. In some disciplines and regions, language requirements contribute substantially to academic inbreeding.
Social media influencer marketing: A systematic review, integrative framework and future research agenda
Authors: Vrontis Demetris , Makrides Anna , Christofi Michael , Thrassou Alkis
Published: January 2021

Over the past few years, the popularity of social media influencers (SMIs) has been growing exponentially, making influencer marketing (IM) prevalent in firm strategies. Despite the mounting interest of researchers and practitioners, the resulting scholarly work remains divergent, partial and fragmented. In light of the pivotal role of SMIs on the consumer decision journey and as this research domain is still developing, a comprehensive and critical overview of extant research on this topic is sorely needed. In response, this paper is the first to consolidate the present state of research on IM within social media settings. More specifically, a systematic review of relevant studies published in peer‐reviewed academic journals across diverse fields was conducted in order to identify key themes and dominant concepts. The analysis of 68 articles from 29 Chartered Association of Business Schools‐ranked journals forges a robust understanding of this phenomenon, shedding light on the mechanisms underlying the appeal of SMIs and their influential power in shaping consumer attitudes and behaviour. Based on the analysis, an integrative multidimensional framework is presented that considers antecedents, mediators and moderators of potential outcomes, as well as contextual factors that translate into consumer behaviour. In so doing, various research gaps are identified and avenues for future research are proposed that reflect important emerging areas and unexplored realms with reference to theory, context and methodology. Conclusively, implications of this study for theory and practice are discussed.
From Ousia to Sophia: The Patristic and Classical Background to Twentieth‐Century Essentialism and Personalism
Authors: Bouteneff Peter C.
Published: January 2021

Both Classical Greek philosophy and the early Christian theology that often drew upon it reflected a tension in their understanding of essence (οὐσία). Was it a concrete thing, something that could assume agency and be related to, or did it refer only to the shared characteristics that reflect things and persons of a common kind? In this article I first establish that this question pertains, mutatis mutandis, to the Platonic forms, as well as to Christian concepts of essence and nature. I then argue that the Christian theology of the conciliar period sided against the reification of essence/nature, noting that their misplaced concreteness resulted in problematic doctrines. In conclusion I briefly explore how this same dynamic plays out in twentieth‐century Orthodox theology, as expressed by Sergius Bulgakov, Vladimir Lossky and John Zizioulas.
Neuroprotective effect of anthocyanin oligomers demonstrated by ischemic insults and lipid peroxidation
Authors: Kim Suah
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the present study was to determine whether the flavonoid, anthocyanin oligomers is effective at blunting the negative influence of ischemia/reperfusion to the rat retina in situ and of various insults to a retinal precursor cells (R28) in culture.

Methods

R28 in culture were given one of three different insults, light (1000 lux for 2 days), hydrogen peroxide (200 µM H2O2 for 24 hours) or serum deprivation (48 hours). Cell survival and reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation were assayed. Lipid peroxidation assay was used to compare the antioxidant capacity of anthocyanin oligomers. In animal studies, anthocyanin oligomers were administered intraperitoneally just before and after an ischemic insult, and ischemia was delivered by raising the intraocular pressure above the systolic blood pressure(50 min). Retinas were analysed for the localisation of various antigens, and retinal extracts were also analysed for various mRNAs.

Results

Ischemia/reperfusion to the retina affected the localisation of Thy‐1 and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) and the content of various proteins (optic nerve and retina) and mRNAs (retina). Importantly, anthocyanin Oligomers statistically blunted most of the effects induced by ischemia/reperfusion. Only the increase in caspase‐8 caused by ischemia/reperfusion was unaffected by anthocyanin oligomers treatment. Anthocyanin oligomers also attenuated significantly the negative insult of light, hydrogen peroxide and serum withdrawal to R28 cells. In the lipid peroxidation studies, anthocyanin oligomers was also found to be equally effective as EGCG to act as an antioxidant. Significantly, the negative insult of serum withdrawal on R28 cell survival was blunted by anthocyanin oligomers but not by EGCG revealing the different properties of the two flavonoids.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrates the powerful antioxidant characteristics of anthocyanin oligomers. Together with anti‐apoptotic effects of anthocyanin oligomers suggest its potential use for the treatment of various ocular diseases such as glaucoma, where oxidative stress has been suggested to be involved in many aspects of pathogenesis.
The Ca2+/ Nucleotide Nanocomplex formulation enhances the pump function of corneal endothelial cells by increasing the activity of Na+/K+ Dependent ATPase
Authors: Kang KuiDong
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Na, K‐ATPase exist in the membrane of the corneal endothelial cell and control the corneal hydration through the pump function. It also plays an important role in preserving the transparency of the cornea. In this study, we investigated the effect of Ca2+/ Nucleotide (NT) nanocomplex (NC) on Na, K‐ATPase and the pump function of the corneal endothelial cells.

Methods

Bovine corneal endothelial cells were used, and the cells were treated with Ca2+/ Nucleotide (NT) nanocomplex (NC) formulation after various insults. Na, K‐ATPase activity was measured by the spectrophotometric measurement of phosphate released from ATP with the use of ammonium molybdate. The Na, K‐ATPase activity was calculated as the difference in ATPase activity between cells exposed to ouabain and those not exposed. Ussing chamber was used to measure the pump function of endothelial cells. Western blot analysis and immunocytochemistry were performed to measure the expression of Na, K‐ATPase α1 subunit.

Results

The Ca2+ NT NCs were prepared at a [Ca2+]:[NT]:[bPEI 1.8 kDa] ratio of 0.25 mM:0.5 mM:1.0 mM and these preparations significantly and gradually increased the activity of Na, K‐ATPase in cultured bovine corneal endothelial cells. And these effects were effectively blocked by the PKC inhibitor (protein kinase C). In addition, Ca2+ NT NCs (0.25 mM and 0.5 mM) increased the viability of cells exposed to a low temperature (4°C) for 4 or 8 hours in a serum containing medium (p < 0.05). Western blot analysis indicated that Ca2+ NT NCs formulation significantly decreased the ratio of inactive Na, K‐Atpase α1 subunit (after 12 hours of incubation with 0.5 mM of Ca2+ NT NCs formation). Immunocytochemistry reveals that Ca2+ NT NCs formulation increased the cell surface expression of the Na,K‐ATPase α1 subunit.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that the Ca2+ NT NC formulation increases the activity of Na, K‐ATPase in the corneal endothelial cells to enhance the pump function. Our results imply a potential therapeutic strategy that the pumping function of the corneal endothelial cells can be improved by the administration of Ca2+ NT NC formulation, which may help to maintain and improve transparency of the cornea.
Influence of the autonomic nervous system balance on pupillary response during far‐to‐near accommodation in healthy children
Authors: Bushuyeva Nataliia , Slobodianyk Svitlana , Dukhayer Shakir
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To study the pupillary response during far‐to‐near accommodation in healthy children depending on their type of autonomic nervous system balance and the age.

Methods

A total of 269 healthy children (538 eyes) aged 6–18 y.o. were examined. They were divided into three groups according to the types of autonomic nervous system balance (sympathotony, parasympathotony, normotony) using Kerdo's index: V.I. = 100 × (1–DAP/Pulse), where DAP – diastolic blood pressure (mmHg), Pulse – heart rate (beats per min). The pupil area during the far‐to‐near accommodation was measured by video‐oculography. The maximal pupil area (Smax, mm2) was measured when the eyes fixed the object at distance 100 cm, the minimal pupil area (Smin, mm2) – when the eyes fixed the object at distance 10 cm. The amplitude of pupil area change (A = Smax–Smin, mm2) was calculated. Then the amplitude of pupil area change for 1 dioptre of accommodation during far‐to‐near response was calculated as A/9 (mm2/dioptre).

Results

The value Smax was the biggest in children with sympathotony (95% confidence 51.0–60.8 mm2), smaller in children with normotony – (20.0–44.0 mm2) and the smallest in children with parasympathotony – (19.1–32.4 mm2). In children with sympathotony, the average values of A/9 were: 4.04 ± 1.08 in children 6–9 y.o., 2.93 ± 0.17 – in children 10–14 y.o. and 3.74 ± 0.13 mm2/dioptre in teenager 15–18 y.o. The values of A/9 in children with parasympathotony were much smaller, that is 1.31 ± 0.76, 1.53 ± 0.67 and 2.24 ± 1.33 mm2/diopter, respectively. In children with normotony, the values of A/9 were the middle ones: 1.42 ± 0.65, 2.48 ± 0.89 and 3.43 ± 1.09 mm2/dioptre, respectively.

Conclusions

The difference in the amplitude of pupil area change during the far‐to‐near accommodation in healthy children aged 6 to 18 years is influenced by the type of autonomic nervous system balance. The biggest values were in children with sympathotony and the smallest in children with parasympathotony.
Use of the corneal bioreactor to assess deswelling efficacy of hyperosmotic eye drops
Authors: Peyret Benjamin , Crouzet Emmanuel , Poinard Sylvain , Garcin Thibaud , Marc Dumollard Jean , Thuret Gilles , Gain Philippe
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The preclinical testing of the efficacy and safety of hyperosmotic anti‐edematous eye drops is complicated by the lack of a simple in vivo and ex vivo animal model. Our patented corneal bioreactor (BR) allows prolonged preservation of the human cornea by restoring physiological intraocular pressure and renewing the culture medium. Under certain experimental conditions, the corneas preserved in BR are nevertheless thicker than normal (684 ± 52 um, A J Transplantation 2019).

Aim

To use this characteristic of corneas stored in the BR to test the efficacy of new hyperosmotic eye drops prototypes.

Methods

Human corneas (n = 4) discarded by our eye banks were used whatever their endothelial status. They were first stored for 2 weeks into the BR filled with CorneaMax (Eurobio, France), with 21 mmHg in the endothelial chamber to allow regeneration of a normal epithelium as previously shown. Using a specific BR lid allowing sterile instillation in front of corneal center, each cornea was treated topically with 3 drops, every 2 hr, repeated 3 times. The epithelial chamber was emptied just before instillation and filled again with CorneaMax 2 min after instillation. Three corneas were treated with a commercial eyedrop containing 5% NaCl and 0.15% sodium hyaluronate and one cornea with Balanced Salt Solution (BSS) as a control. Central corneal volume (on an 8mm disc, CCV8 in mm3) was measured with OCT (Casia, Tomey) immediately before and after each instillation. The decrease in CCV was calculated for each instillation and before the first and the third instillation.

Results

For corneas treated with NACl 5%, CCV decreased by (mean ± SD) 1.0 ± 0.4, 0.7 ± 0.1 and 0.6 ± 0.2 mm3, respectively, for the first, the second and the third instillation, and globally by 2.4 ± 1.1 mm3. The cornea treated with BSS remained unchanged.

Conclusions

The BR is an efficient tool to quantify the efficacy of hyperosmotic eye drops designed to deswell human cornea.
Retinal microglial changes at early aging in an experimental glaucoma model
Authors: Fernández‐Albarral José A. , López‐Cuenca Inés , Salobrar‐Garcia Elena , Pilar Rojas Lozano María , Ramírez Ana I. , De Hoz Rosa , Aviles‐Trigueros Marcelino , Vidal‐Sanz Manuel , Ramirez Jose Manuel , José Salazar Corral Juan
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To analyze microglial cells activation features, and P2RY12, MHC‐II and CD68 expression in 15‐month‐old mice compared to young adult mice, after unilateral laser‐induced ocular hypertension (OHT)

Methods

Albino Swiss mice divided in four groups; young naïve (n = 6), aged naïve (n = 6), young OHT (YG) (n = 6) and aged OHT (AG) (n = 6), were analyzed. In OHT groups, both OHT eyes and contralateral eyes were studied. Retinal whole‐mounts were processed with: 1) anti Iba‐1 to quantify: i) Iba‐1 + cells number (Ibacn) in outer segments (OS), outer plexiform layer (OPL) and inner plexiform layer (IPL); ii) area of retina occupied by Iba‐1 + cells (Iba‐1 RA) in the nerve fiber layer‐ ganglion cell layer (NFL‐GCL) iii) cell body area of Iba‐1+ cells (CbIbac) in OPL, IPL and NFL‐GCL; iv) arbor area of Iba‐1+ cells (AAIbac) in OPL and IPL; and vi) vertical processes number of Iba‐1+ cells (VPIbac) between OS and OPL. 2) anti‐P2RY12, (resident microglia), anti‐CD68 (phagocytic activity) and anti‐MHC‐II (microglial activation marker)

Results

Both OHT eyes and contralateral eyes of YG and AG showed significant: increase of Ibacn, Iba‐1 RA, CbIbac and VPIbac and decrease of AAIbac, more pronounced in OHT eyes, compared to their respective naïve groups. Comparing YG and AG showed: i) AG versus YG in OHT eyes, significant decrease of Iba‐1 RA and VPIbac; ii) AG versus YG in contralateral eyes, a significant increase of Ibacn (OS) and a significant decrease of CbIbac and AAIbac (IPL). Analyzing the P2RY12, CD68 and MHC‐II expression we observed: i) in YG all Iba‐1+ cells were P2RY12+, except perivascular and dendritic cells, but in AG most cells were Iba‐1+/P2RY12‐; ii) in AG and YG numerous amoeboid‐like CD68+ cells were found but in AG ramified appearance CD68+ cells were also observed, and iii) While in YG practically all Iba‐1+ cells were MHC‐II+, in AG some Iba‐1+ cells showed MHC‐II+ expression

Conclusions

The morphological and molecular differences found in microglial cells of AG compared to YG show the possible aging implication in glaucoma.
Photopic negative response during and after ocular direct current stimulation
Authors: Blum Maren‐Christina , Solf Benjamin , Klee Sascha
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Ocular current stimulation (CS) exhibits potential for the treatment of neurodegenerative ocular diseases. Until today, the underlying mechanism of the CS is unknown. For the pattern electroretinogram (ERG) the CS have a decreasing effect on the amplitudes but no influence on latencies. The photopic negative response (PhNR) is an amplitude in the full‐field ERG originating like the patter ERG in the GCs. The aim of the study was to investigate whether CS can also influence the PhNR.

Methods

14 healthy volunteers (7m, 27.7 ± 4.5 years) were stimulated with an anodal, cathodal and sham (randomized) direct CS of 800 µA for 5 min. A cut‐sized ring rubber electrode (outer/inner diameter: 7.5 cm/3 cm) placed around the eye and a square rubber electrode (25 cm2) placed at the ipsilateral temple were used for CS. Before (ERG1), during (ERG2) and after (1, 5, 10, 15 min) the CS, the PhNR was measured with a full‐field ERG (light adapted, white flash, strength: 3 cds/m2, frequency: 2 Hz, duration: < 5 ms). For ERG recording, Ag/AgCl ring‐shaped skin‐electrodes were placed at the lower eyelid (active), the ipsilateral earlobe (reference) and the forehead (ground). For analysis, the data distribution of the amplitude and latency differences to the ERG1 wasevaluated. A confidence interval analysis and the Wilcoxon test (α = 0.05, after Bonferroni correction p* ≤ 0.0167) for the difference between ERG1 and ERG2 were performed.

Results

In the mean, the data distribution showed an increasing PhNR amplitude during the cathodal CS. The confidence interval analysis and the Wilcoxon test of the difference between ERG1 and ERG2 were significant for the cathodal CS (anodal: [−1.94 µV/2.08 µV], p = 0.826; cathodal: [0.98 µV/3.04 µV]*, p = 0.002*; sham: [−1.08 µV/0.28 µV], p = 0.272). No current effect could be found for all latencies and all after‐stimulation measurements.

Conclusions

We found a significant increase in the PhNR during a cathodal CS which suggest a modulation of GC activity.
Relationship between peripapillary perfusion density, peripapillary flow index and traditional glaucoma measurements in open‐angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension: an optical coherence tomography angiography study
Authors: Schilt‐Catafal Maria del Mar , Pérez‐Torregrosa Vicente T. , Duch‐Samper Antonio M.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This study aims to detect peripapillary vascular changes in patients with glaucoma and ocular hypertension compared to healthy eyes, and to correlate these vascular parameters with structural and functional parameters.

Methods

46 open‐angle glaucoma eyes (GE), 35 ocular hypertension eyes (OHE) and 47 age‐matched control eyes (CE) were analyzed. Visual field test was performed with the Humphrey Field Analyzer 3. Optic disc region was imaged using a 4.5 × 4.5 mm scan by a HD‐OCT Cirrus. Peripapillary perfusion density (PPD) and peripapillary flow index (PFI) were quantified by the owner’s algorithm. The statistical analysis was performed using the Kruskal‐Wallis Test with Bonferroni Post Hoc analysis and Spearman rank correlation.

Results

GE showed an attenuated PPD globally and in each sector compared to OHE and CE (−10.62%), being the superior and inferior sectors the most affected ones. PFI in GE was also lower than those in OHE and CE (−14.43%). PPD and PFI were also lower in OHE than those in CE (p < 0.001 for all pairwise comparisons). Univariate regression analysis showed that PFI was correlated with retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) (r = +0.607) and visual field mean deviation (VFMD) (r = +0.586). PPD had a higher correlation with RNFL (r = +0.686) and VFMD (r = +0.609). Superior and inferior sectors were the most correlated (p < 0.001 for all).

Conclusions

Vascular changes that occur in GE can be visualized as reduced PPD and, specially, as PFI. This finding was not previously described, and suggests that the structural damage may be caused to a greater extent by a decreased PFI more than by an attenuation of PPD. Furthermore, OHE also exhibited vascular abnormalities compared with CE. This indicates that vascular changes may occur before changes in retinal thickness at the early stages of glaucoma. All of these measures resulted to be positively correlated with traditional glaucoma parameters. So, quantitative OCTA may have value in the future to evaluate or follow up glaucoma and ocular hypertension patients.
Comparison of central corneal thickness measured by noncontact tonometry and ultrasound pachymetry
Authors: Park Hyeyeon , Young Shin Hye
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To compare and analyze central corneal thickness (CCT) as measured by ultrasound pachymetry(USP) with noncontract tonometry(NCT) TX‐20P, which involves the function to measure central corneal thickness.

Methods

The central corneal thickness was measured in 45 eyes of 26 glaucoma patients and in 84 eyes of 43 healthy patients by two optometrist. First, noncontact tonometry TX‐20P was used to measure the CCT, followed by measurements taken using ultrasound pachymetry later. The results were compared and the correlations between two devices were analyzed. To determine whether the measurements vary depending on use of anti‐glaucoma eyedrops, all subjects were classified into two groups. Then, the difference of the CCT measured by the two devices was analyzed.

Results

The average measurements of central corneal thickness using ultrasound pachymetry and noncontact tonometry TX‐20P were 529.07 ± 40.40 μm and 526.26 ± 35.30 μm, respectively. The central corneal thickness by ultrasound pachymetry was thicker than by noncontact tonometry TX‐20P. There was statistically significant differences between the measurements (p < 0.001) and the two exams showed high degree of linear correlation(r = 0.919, p < 0.001). The difference of central corneal thickness between two devices was 2.80 ± 19.00 μm in group 1 and 2.81 ± 14.29 μm in group 2. The difference between two groups was not statistically significant (p = 0.997).

Conclusions

This study showed that the results using ultrasound pachymetry and noncontact tonometry TX‐20P had significant positively correlation with each other regardless of using anti‐glaucoma eyedrops.
The effect of the stimulus eccentricity on the main component of the steady‐state visual evoked potential
Authors: Solf Benjamin , Blum Maren‐Christina , Klee Sascha
Published: January 2021

Purpose

For electrophysiological functional diagnostics, the main component of steady‐state visual evoked potentials (SSVEP) at stimulation frequency (SF) is mainly used. However, some studies reported the main component at the second harmonic of the SF. A possible cause are signal components of the single responses that differ from the SF when the responses overlap during steady‐state stimulations, but the origin is not fully understood. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of the stimulus eccentricity on the occurrence of the main component of SSVEP.

Methods

We studied 14 healthy subjects (5 m, 28 ± 5.0 years) using a circular layout (r1 = 0–1.6°, r2 = 1.6–3.5°, r3 = 3.5–6.4°, r4 = 6.4–10.9°, r5 = 10.9–18°). The dimensions of the stimuli were scaled according to the cortical magnification. The stimuli (luminance: 350 cd/m2, contrast: 99%) were presented in a random order at 7.5Hz for 75 cycles for each eccentricity. This procedure was repeated 10 times in total (750 cycles per eccentricity). A background luminance of 30 cd/m2 was added to supress foveal stray light effects. The electrodes were placed at Oz (active), FCz (reference) and FPz (ground). The recorded SSVEP were transformed using Fourier analysis. The medians (M) of the normalized amplitude ratios for amplitudes at first and second harmonic were calculated. Friedman's test (α = 0.05) and the probability of the occurrence of the main component at the second harmonic (P(MCSH)) were used for statistical analysis.

Results

The normalized amplitude ratios showed a significant difference for the 5 stimulus eccentricities (Mr1 = 0.45, Mr2 = 0.41, Mr3 = 0.72, Mr4 = 0.72 Mr5 = 0.67; p = 0.0002*). P(MCSH) showed an increase for stimulus eccentricities for ≥r3 (P(MCSH)r1 = 0.07, P(MCSH)r2 = 0.07, P(MCSH)r3 = 0.36, P(MCSH)r4 = 0.29, P(MCSH)r5 = 0.36).

Conclusions

The stimulus eccentricity has an influence on the main component of SSVEP. An increase in stimulus eccentricity leads to an increased occurrence of the main component at second harmonic.
Offset characteristic of transient and steady‐state flash visual evoked potentials
Authors: Solf Benjamin , Blum Maren‐Christina , Klee Sascha
Published: January 2021

Purpose

In ISCEV flash stimulations, the brief stimuli onset time results in an overlap of the onset and offset response in the recorded visual evoked potential (VEP). However, the influence of a prolonged onset time in flash stimulation has not been studied yet. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of the onset time on the transient and steady‐state VEP.

Methods

We studied 8 healthy subjects (3 m, 26 ± 3.6 years) using flash stimuli (d = 10°, luminance = 350 cd/m2, contrast = 99%). For transient stimulations, stimuli were presented with an onset time of 16 ms, 34 ms, 67 ms, and 200 ms at 1Hz for 180 sweeps. The amplitudes and latencies of P2 and P3 peaks were used for analysis. For steady‐state stimulations, stimuli were presented with an onset time of 16 ms, 33 ms, and 67 ms at 7.5 Hz for 5 sweeps with 30 cycles each. The amplitudes at 7.5Hz and the ratio of the amplitudes at 7.5 Hz and 15 Hz were evaluated. VEPs were recorded using electrodes at Oz (active), FCz (reference) and FPz (ground). For statistical analysis, Friedman's test and Wilcoxon Post‐Hoc tests (α = 0.05) were used.

Results

For transient stimulations, significant differences (p = 0.000*) were found for latencies of the P3 peaks (median: 201 ms, 216 ms, 230 ms, 319 ms; p*16/67 = 0.0078, p*16/200 = 0.0078, p*33/200 = 0.0078, p*67/200 = 0.0078). The P2 peak amplitude (17.6 µV, 18.1 µV, 16.6 µV, 16.2 µV; p = 0.3476), P3 peak amplitude (5.1 µV, 3.4 µV, 5.3 µV, 8.0 µV; p = 0.0917) and P2 peak latency (103 ms, 105 ms, 106 ms, 104 ms; p = 0.2453) showed no significant differences. For steady‐state stimulations, no significant differences were found for amplitudes at stimulation frequency (2.0 µV/Hz, 1.5 µV/Hz, 1.1 µV/Hz; p = 0.197) and amplitude ratio (0.5, 0.6, 0.3; p = 0.093).

Conclusions

A prolonged onset time leads to a significant increase of the P3 peak latency in transient VEP. No significant influence of the onset time was found for steady‐state VEP. Thus, the steady‐state VEP seems to be dominated by the onset response of the flash stimulation.
Outcomes and complications in eyes that underwent intraocular lens fixation in the absence of capsular support
Authors: Helayel Halah , AlMutlak Mohammed , Khandekar Rajiv , AlSwailem Samar
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To identify factors influencing the visual and refractive outcomes and complications in eyes that underwent intraocular lens fixation in the absence of capsular support.

Methods

Retrospective case series. Patients records from 2014 to December 2019 in King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital (KKESH) were reviewed and divided into two groups: posterior chamber iris fixated IOL (sutured) (IFIOL) and scleral fixated IOL (SFIOL). Demographic data, ocular factors (location of IOL placement), systemic comorbidities, lens status at the time of surgery were collected.

Axial length, IOL calculation formula, surgeon level, IOL fixation technique, intraoperative complications, and concurrent or previous vitrectomy were correlated to the outcome. Postoperative data of corrected distance visual acuity, refraction, early and late postoperative complications were also collected and correlated to the outcome.

Results

Seventy‐five eyes of 69 patients were included in this study. The median follow‐up period was 9 months (range 0–60 months). The average age of patients in this study was 50 years. 14 eyes (18.6%) underwent IFIOL while 61 eyes (81.3%) underwent SFIOL. At the end of follow‐up, the preoperative mean of best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.3 log of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR), which improved to 0.22 logMAR postoperatively. BCVA improved or remained unchanged in 71 eyes (94.6%), VA decreased two lines in 4 eyes (5.3%). Regular follow‐up examinations at 3, 6, and 12 months after IOL fixation revealed no intraoperative complications, and the postoperative complication rate was (18.6%).

Conclusions

Different techniques of IOL fixation in the absence of capsular support are safe with favorable outcomes. However, they are technically challenging and time‐consuming. The innovation of new surgical techniques continues to provide safer and effective treatment options for the eyes that lack sufficient capsular support.