bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of handling on fear reactions in young Icelandic horses
Authors: Marsbøll A. F. , Christensen J. W.
Published: August 2014

Reasons for performing the study

Inclusion of objective temperament tests at practical horse breeding evaluations is of increased interest. It has been debated whether such tests may involve human handling, since there may be considerable differences in horses' handling experience.

Objectives

To investigate the effect of a short‐term standardised handling procedure on reactions of young horses in 2 types of fear tests (including and excluding human handling).

Study design

An experimental study with 3‐year‐old Icelandic horses (n = 24).

Methods

Handled horses (n = 12) were trained according to a standardised handling procedure whereas controls (n = 12) remained untrained. Behavioural and heart rate responses in a novel object test and 2 handling fear tests (HFTs) were measured. The HFTs were conducted with both an unknown (HFT‐unknown) and a known handler (HFT‐known).

Results

There was no effect of the handling procedure on the horses' behavioural and heart rate responses in the novel object test, nor in the HFT‐unknown. In the HFT‐known, however, handled horses showed a significantly shorter duration of reluctance behaviour compared with controls, whereas heart rates did not differ. Heart rates correlated significantly between tests.

Conclusions

Previous handling may affect the behavioural fear response of horses when handled by their usual handler, whereas this effect did not apply to an unknown handler. Heart rates appeared unaffected by handling and may be a more reliable indicator of fearfulness. Known handlers may ‘mask’ behavioural responses of horses in fear tests and thus handling by a known handler during testing may not be appropriate for objective evaluation of fearfulness in a practical situation.
State‐of‐the‐art review on the local strain energy density concept and its relation to the J‐integral and peak stress method
Authors: Radaj D.
Published: August 2014

The local average strain energy density (SED) approach has been proposed and elaborated by Lazzarin for strength assessments in respect of brittle fracture and high‐cycle fatigue. Pointed and rounded (blunt) V‐notches subjected to tensile loading (mode 1) are primarily considered. The method is systematically extended to multiaxial conditions (mode 3, mixed modes 1 and 2). The application to brittle fracture is documented for PMMA flat bar specimens with pointed or rounded V‐notches inclusive of U‐notches. Results for other brittle materials (ceramics, PVC, duraluminum and graphite) are also recorded. The application to high‐cycle fatigue comprises fillet‐welded joints, weld‐like shaped and V‐notched base material specimens as well as round bar specimens with a V‐notch. The relation of the local SED concept to comparable other concepts is investigated, among them the Kitagawa, Taylor and Atzori–Lazzarin diagrams, the Neuber concept of fictitious notch rounding applied to welded joints and also the J‐integral approach. Alternative details of the local SED concept such as a semicircular control volume, microrounded notches and slit‐parallel loading are also mentioned. Coarse FE meshes at pointed or rounded notch tips are proven to be acceptable for accurate local SED evaluations. The peak stress method proposed by Meneghetti, which is based on a notch stress intensity factor consideration combined with a globally even coarse FE mesh and is used for the assessment of the fatigue strength of welded joints, is also presented.
Challenges for interpreting retinal morphology
Authors: BEK T
Published: August 2014

Diseases in the retina are the most frequent causes of visual impairment and blindness in the Western World. However, it is a paradox that these diseases that are debilitating because of the effects on retinal function, are mainly diagnosed and monitored on the basis of their morphological appeareance in the ocular fundus. The most widespread methods for evaluating retinal morphology are based on the study of light reflected from the fundus background and imaged through the optics of the eye. This imaging principle depends on image contrast, on spatial resolution of the optics of the eye, and on the temporal resolution of the recording system used to image the fundus. The morphological lesions observed in the ocular fundus are often heterogenous with varying number, size, shape, density, location and dynamics. In most cases information about these features are aggregated into more simple qualitative or semi‐quantitative grading systems that can be handled in simple rule based clinical decision models. However, the advent of computerized image processing has allowed a more detailed quantitative evaluation of retinal morphology. Examples will be given of how this may help improving the diagnosis and management of retinal disease.
Relative survival
Authors: DAMATO B
Published: August 2014

Abstract not provided
Anterior corneal dystrophies
Authors: JANISZEWSKA D
Published: August 2014

In pursuance of the IC3D classification the group of the anterior corneal dystrophies include: Epithelial and Subepithelial Dystrophies: (( Epithelial basement membrane dystrophy (EBMD)—majority degenerative, some C1; Epithelial recurrent erosion dystrophy (ERED) C4, (Smolandiensis variant) C3;Subepithelial mucinous corneal dystrophy (SMCD) C4; Mutation in keratin genes: Meesmann corneal dystrophy (MECD) C1; Lisch epithelial corneal dystrophy (LECD) C2; Gelatinous drop‐like corneal dystrophy (GDLD) C10 and Bowman Layer Dystrophies: (( Reis–Bücklers corneal dystrophy (RBCD)—Granular corneal dystrophy type 3 C1;Thiel–Behnke corneal dystrophy (TBCD) C1, potential variant C2; Grayson –Wilbrandt corneal dystrophy (GWCD) C4). Foregoing course summarizes genetic background, invasive examination (histological, confocal) and non invasive modern visualization techniques such as AS SOCT. Above lecture will also assume clinical approach.
Signs and symptoms of uveitis
Authors: NERI P , ARAPI I , PIRANI V , ZUCCHI M , PRIMAVERA L
Published: August 2014

Inflammation of uveal tract can be divided into: anterior, intermediate, posterior, and panuveitis. Uveitis can be a sight‐threatening disease. The commonest ocular symptoms are: blurred vision, ocular pain, photophobia and floaters, depending on the type of uveitis. The onset of uveitis can be either acute or insidious, involving one or both eyes. Posterior uveitis is usually associated with vitritis. Anterior chamber cells and flare should be graded according to standardized uveitis nomenclature (SUN) working group. Binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy (BIO) score is used to grade vitreous involvement. Vitreous changes may comprehend: vitreous hemorrhage, vitreous strands, and vitreous traction. A further classification of posterior uveitis depends on the primary site of inflammation, which can identify: retinitis, choroiditis, retinochoroiditis, and chorioretinitis. Posterior pole uveal involvement can be: focal, multifocal, and placoid. Retinal vasculitis can be associated with several sub‐types of posterior uveitis. Uveitis can present several complications such as, anterior and posterior synechiae, which can lead to uveitic glaucoma, cystoid macular oedema, retinal and choroidal neovascularizations, and retinal ischemia.
Genetic causes of acute visual loss
Authors: YU‐WAI‐MAN P
Published: August 2014

Genetic causes of acute visual loss are relatively rare, but these still need to be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially in the relevant clinical context. In this presentation, classical genetic disorders affecting the optic nerve will be discussed with a particular focus on Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON). LHON is a primary mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) disorder and three point mutations within the mitochondrial genome account for the vast majority of cases, namely: m.3460G>A, m.11778G>A and m.14484T>C. It typically affects young adult males who present with bilateral severe visual loss in the second or third decade of life. In addition to the canonical LHON mutations, other pathogenic mtDNA mutations have been reported that can result in both syndromic and non‐syndromic optic neuropathies. Acute visual loss in genetic disorders can also be secondary to pathology involving the retrochiasmal visual pathways, for example, in MELAS (mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke‐like episodes). The cardinal clinical manifestations in this group of patients are homonymous hemianopic visual field defects or cortical blindness.
What is driving the decision to perform a filtering procedure
Authors: BRON AM , DE LAZZER A , KOEHRER P , BONNABEL A , AHO S , CREUZOT‐GARCHER C
Published: August 2014

Purpose To assess what is driving the decision to perform a filtering procedure in a patient suffering from glaucoma.

Methods Retrospective study in one single University centre with one glaucoma specialist. All the indications for filtering glaucoma surgeries (alone or combined with cataract extraction) undertaken during 2013 with the same surgeon were reviewed. The indications were as follows: clinical evaluation of the optic disc, visual field progression, progression on imaging (OCT and HRT), poor tolerance to medical treatment, non controlled intraocular pressure (IOP) and cataract.

Results Retrospective study in one single University centre with one glaucoma specialist. All the indications for filtering glaucoma surgeries (alone or combined with cataract extraction) undertaken during 2013 with the same surgeon were reviewed. The indications were as follows: clinical evaluation of the optic disc, visual field progression, progression on imaging (OCT and HRT), poor tolerance to medical treatment, non controlled intraocular pressure (IOP) and cataract.

Conclusion The indications for glaucoma surgery may be highly variable according to the country, the practice and the surgeon. A multicentre study should be useful to better define what is driving the indications for glaucoma surgery.
Inhibition of α5β1‐integrin significantly improves the surgical outcome of glaucoma surgery in mice compared to MMC
Authors: VAN BERGEN T , ZAHN G , CALDIROLA P , FSADNI M , CARAM‐LELHAM N , VANDEWALLE E , STALMANS I
Published: August 2014

Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic potential of α5β1‐integrin inhibitor (CLT‐28643) to improve the outcome of filtering surgery in a mouse model. Different dose regimen and administration routes of the inhibitor were compared to mitomycin C (MMC), the gold standard in clinical practice.

Methods The efficacy of CLT‐28643 on surgical outcome was studied in a mouse model for filtering surgery (n=40 eyes from 20 mice per group). Group 1 received a single subconjunctival (SC) injection of 2 µg of the integrin inhibitor immediately after surgery, whereas repeated SC injections were administered on day 0, 3, 7, 14 and 21 in groups 2 and 3 (2 and 1 µg, respectively). Group 4 received topical eye drops containing 10 µg of the compound 3 times daily. MMC 0.02% was applied for 2 minutes in group 5 and repeated SC injections of NaCl were given in the last group. Treatment outcome was studied by a masked observer every other day by clinical investigation of the bleb until postoperative day 28.

Results Surgical outcome was improved in all treatment groups compared to NaCl treated eyes (P<0.001). A dose‐response curve was observed in the efficacy of the subconjunctival injections, with the repetitive administration of 1µg being significantly inferior to, the single injection of 2 µg or topical administration (10 µg) comparable to, and the repetitive injection of 2 µg significantly superior to MMC.

Conclusion These data suggest that administration of the α5β1‐integrin inhibitor CLT‐28643 has therapeutic potential as an adjunct to glaucoma surgery, possibly with a superior efficacy to MMC when used at the optimal dose.
Different aspects of IOP measurements with GAT versus DCT in glaucoma patients
Authors: MEIER‐GIBBONS F
Published: August 2014

Purpose 1. To compare the intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements with Goldmann Applanation Tonometry (GAT) versus Dynamic Contour Tonometry (DCT) in patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension (OHT). 2. To evaluate whether the measurements of GAT versus DCT are influenced firstly by the type of glaucoma (Primary Open Angle Glaucoma, Pseudoexfoliative Glaucoma, Angle Closure Glaucoma or OHT), secondly by the type of glaucoma therapy and thirdly by the Central Corneal Thickness (CCT).

Methods Office based clinical study of 282 consecutive patients with glaucoma or OHT. Consecutive IOP measurements with GAT and DCT and CCT measurements (with ultrasound pachymetry) by one examiner. A statistical analysis evaluates whether the type of glaucoma, the type of glaucoma therapy or the CCT influence the difference between the IOP measurements with GAT and DCT.

Results Ongoing study, preliminary results show a difference between GAT and DCT in the range of other studies (DCT slightly higher in most of the patients). The type of glaucoma therapy does not seem to influence the difference between GAT and DCT, nor does the CCT or the type of glaucoma.

Conclusion The GAT is still the gold standard, but the IOP measurements with the CCT independent DCT become more and more important. Preliminary results show that in this study, unlike in another study with much less patients, the glaucoma therapy did not influence the difference between GAT and DCT.

Commercial interest
B27‐associated uveitis, Fuchs uveitis
Authors: WILLERMAIN F
Published: August 2014

B27‐associated uveitis is a very frequent form of non infectious intraocular inflammation which account for approximately 50 % of acute anterior uveitis. Its main clinical features, natural history and association with seronegative arthritis are well known. Fuchs uveitis is another frequent cause of anterior and intermediate uveitis. Its natural history is well characterised as well as its association with intraocular production of anti‐rubella antibodies. Both diseases are thus often considered as easy diagnosis. However, several aspects of those diseases remain challenging and debated. In this interactive course, based on clinical cases, we will insist on those difficult aspects as well as on the more recent issues discussed in the literature.
A transcriptional network underlies the identity and diversity of tissue macrophages
Authors: GAUTIER E
Published: August 2014

We recently assessed gene expression in tissue macrophages, which do not derive from monocytes, extracted from various mouse organs and found that the diversity in gene expression among different populations of macrophages was considerable. Only a few hundred mRNA transcripts were selectively expressed by macrophages rather than dendritic cells, and many of these were not present in all macrophages. Nonetheless, well‐characterized surface markers, including MerTK and FcγR1 (CD64), along with a cluster of previously unidentified transcripts, were distinctly and universally associated with mature tissue macrophages. We further demonstrated how these transcripts and the proteins they encode facilitated distinguishing macrophages from dendritic cells, and showed that they were turned on during monocyte to inflammatory macrophage differentiation. Furthermore, in support of the high diversity observed among tissue resident macrophages, the mRNAs encoding several transcription factors were associated with single macrophage populations and we provided evidence that Pparg and Gata6 specifically controls the homeostasis of specific tissue resident macrophage populations.
The KORA‐AGE Eye Study: Genetic Susceptibility
Authors: GRAW J , MOLNOS S , HEIER M , LINKOHR B , BREIER M , HOLLE R , GRILL E , GRALLERT H , PETERS A
Published: August 2014

Purpose To estimate the genetic susceptibility of major age‐related eye diseases in a population‐based study in the region of Augsburg, Southern Germany (KORA).

Methods 822 persons aged 68‐96 years from the KORA‐AGE study were asked in a follow up 2012 in a standardized interview for the presence of major eye disorders like cataracts, glaucoma and age‐related macula degeneration (AMD). In validated cases we investigated genetic susceptibility for major eye diseases by association with 31 functional candidate genes; association was calculated using logistic regression adjusted for age and gender.

Results 465 persons reported any eye disorder (57%); 71% of them could be validated and specified. There were 68 cases of AMD and 72 cases of glaucoma; 90 % of glaucoma and 93% of AMD are overlapping with cataracts resulting in 182 pure cataracts and 117 cataracts with glaucoma and/or AMD. In a recessive model, only ARMS2 (age‐related maculopathy susceptibility gene 2) showed significant (p=0.0000175) association with AMD (OR 9.0; 95%‐CI 3.8 – 21.4). This gene is present only in humans and chimpanzees, but not in rodents. Additionally, CRYBA1 (encoding βA1‐crystallin) showed an increased risk for glaucoma (OR 5.8; 95%‐CI 1.7 – 20.5), however it is statistically not significant (p=0.144). These effects might be due to a relatively small sample size.

Conclusion Age‐related eye diseases frequently do not occur in their “pure” form; cataracts overlap frequently with glaucoma and/or AMD. The association of AMD with ARMS2 strongly supports previous findings of ARMS2 as a major risk gene for AMD. This study was supported by the BMBF (FKZ 01ET1003A)
Assessment of ocular surface microbiota in keratoconus patients – a pilot study
Authors: GAJECKA M , MATYSIAK A , KUBICKA M , SZAFLIK JP
Published: August 2014

Purpose Both genetic and environmental factors are associated with keratoconus (KTCN). The hypothesis of this project is that genetic factors together with environmental aspects, including the presence of specific ocular surface (OS) microbiota, influence the etiology of KTCN. Currently numerous studies focus on describing the variant microbe populations that occur in specific disease states, or the temporal microbial changes that are observed over the course of a disease. Microbiota at KTCN eye has not been evaluated so far. Therefore, the study question is whether there is a causal link between eye microbiome variation and KTCN.

Methods Because of inter‐individual microbiota variation revealed at the same anatomical sites, only male individuals in similar age (30‐40 yrs old) are being ascertained. Individuals are divided into four study subgroups (n=30 each): 1) patients with bilateral KTCN, 2) patients with KTCN and atopy, 3) patients with atopy, and 4) individuals without both KTCN and atopy. Culture‐based microbiology methods are used in the investigation to preliminary examine the OS microbiota. Simultaneously, microbial genetic material is extracted from the eye swabs for further qualitative and quantitative analyzes using molecular biology methods (real‐time PCR, NGS).

Results Preliminary results indicate a diversity of OS microbiota in both healthy and affected individuals. The most common isolated bacteria were Staphylococcus epidermidis, Corynebacterium spp., and Propionibacterium spp. Detailed profiles of OS microbiota in the studied groups are under investigation.

Conclusion The results of this project will widen current knowledge about environmental aspects of KTCN etiology. Support: National Science Centre in Poland, Grant no. 2012/05/E/NZ5/02127.
Biomarkers of Age‐Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Four new obesity‐related genetic loci are associated with advanced AMD
Authors: PATERNO JJ , HELISALMI S , TOKARZ P , BLASIAK J , HILTUNEN M , UUSITUPA M , KAARNIRANTA K
Published: August 2014

Purpose AMD is the leading cause of central blindness in the elderly in Western countries. It has a complex multifactorial etiology, including aging, genetic factors, smoking, hypertension and atherosclerosis. Moreover, obesity has been considered to increase the risk for AMD. We hypothesize that the genetic variations associated with obesity might also be involved in the pathogenesis of AMD.

Methods Cross‐sectional clinical data from 348 advanced AMD cases and 722 controls were collected. All subjects were over 65 years old, and without diabetes mellitus. We genotyped 40 newly associated obesity related loci using the Sequenom iPlex platform.

Results Of the 40 SNPs analysed, PTBP2 (rs1555543), GNPDA2 (rs10938397), HOXC13 (rs1443512) and MAP2K5 (rs2241423) showed a nominally (P<0.05) significant association with advanced AMD in this local Finnish population.

Conclusion These new findings suggest that the link between AMD and obesity could be partly explained by genetic factors. Besides providing new insights into pathogenic mechanisms of AMD, these findings may also help to reveal possible targets for therapeutic intervention and useful diagnostic biomarkers in this disease.
Visual dysfunction and pupillary responses are dissociated in the Opa3 mutant mouse with retinal degeneration
Authors: VOTRUBA M , DAVIES JR , DOUGLAS RH , DAVIES VJ
Published: August 2014

Purpose To assess the affect of the missense mutation p.L122P in a mouse model of 3‐methylglutaconic aciduria (MGA‐III), a neuro‐metabolic syndrome which presents with retinal and optic atrophy and neurological impairment.

Methods Visual acuity was quantified in an optokinetic nystagmus drum by increasing the spatial frequency of the grating until an optomotor response could not be elicited. Pupillary light responsiveness was assessed by video pupillometry. Time course and phenotype of retinal degeneration was examined using haematoxylin and eosin and terminal dUTP transferase nick end labelling.

Results Opa3+/+ and Opa3+/‐ mice showed normal visual acuity by tracking a 2° grating. However, Opa3‐/‐ mice displayed no optomotor response at any grating frequency. Despite this, their pupil response was little affected. Pupil response/intensity curves of Opa3‐/‐ and Opa3+/+ mice diverged somewhat at lower intensities although they only differed significantly at two irradiance levels. At 50% constriction Opa3‐/‐ mice were only 0.61 log units less sensitive than wildtypes. Histology showed panretinal degeneration in adult Opa3‐/‐ mice and TUNEL revealed increased cell death in postnatal and adult Opa3‐/‐ retinae.

Conclusion The Opa3‐/‐ mouse is a useful model of the human disease. Retinal atrophy in Opa3‐/‐ animals is associated with widespread retinal thinning. However, dissociation between visual perception and pupillary function implies that the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) subserving pupillary function may be less susceptible to damage by mutations of Opa3 than the retinogeniculate fibres underlying visual perception.
Optical and morphological characterization of a 3D printed intraocular lens
Authors: DEBELLEMANIERE G , FLORES M , MONTARD M , DELBOSC B , SALEH M
Published: August 2014

Purpose Three‐dimensional printing (or “additive manufacturing”) is a technology which allows to create a three dimensional object by building it layer by successive layer. It is especially interesting for objects that are produced in little series and that require a high degree of customization, as it allows economies of scale and potentially unlimited design possibilities. Those characteristics are particularly relevant to intraocular lenses used in cataract surgery, in a personalized medicine approach. Despite technical barriers, additive manufacturing of good quality lenses without post‐processing is now achievable. We aimed to determine if the historical Ridley lens was able to be reproduced with current 3D lens printing technology.

Methods We realized a digital reproduction of the Ridley’s IOL using a 3D modeling program. Lenses were then printed. No post‐processing was used. Photographs and electron microscopy images of the printed lens were obtained. Dimensional measurements, weight and dioptric power were determined. The data was compared with the data available in the literature concerning the original Ridley's intraocular lens.

Results The morphological study showed a shape similar to the original lens. Transparency was satisfying. A good optical surface regularity was obtained. The lens power was 1.31 diopters different than expected, due to inaccuracies in curved surfaces printing, however general properties of a lens were achevied.

Conclusion This is the first attempt to produce an intraocular lens using a 3D printer. Despite major technological barriers, 3D printing of optical lenses could have important implications in tomorrow's ophthalmic surgery by allowing potentially unlimited optical and morphological lens designs.
Change in intraocular pressure in the early period after cataract phacoemulsification
Authors: YUGAY MARIA , RYABTSEVA ALLA
Published: August 2014

Purpose Described decrease of IOP after phaco is 2‐5 mm Hg . At the same time, in the early period after cataract extraction frequent increase in IOP is described. The purpose of our study was to analyse the dynamics of IOP after uncomplicated phacoemulcification

Methods The study included 67 eyes of 66 patients who underwent uncomplicated phaco with foldable IOL implantation . All patients underwent tonography resulting tonographic IOP (Po) and ease outflow coeffitient (C) , a study of corneal ‐ compensated IOP (IOPcc) and Goldmann IOP (IOPg) with Ocular Response Analyzer. Which were repeated before surgery, the first two days , 2 weeks , 1 and 3 months after operation.

Results Average Po before surgery was 15,67± 0,85 mm Hg, IOPcc 15,91 ±0,69 mm Hg and IOPg 14,51 ±0,78 mm Hg. On the first day after surgery IOPcc increased by 2,84 mm Hg, and IOPg by 1.53 mm Hg . Two weeks after surgery Po decreased from baseline by 3.45 mm Hg , IOPcc still increasing by 0.62 mm Hg , IOPg also further increased by 1.44 mm Hg .1 month after surgery Po virtually unchanged compared with data from 2 weeks , IOPcc returned to preoperative values , IOPg reduced compared with the preoperative figures by 1.0 mm Hg . Finally, after 3 months Po became lower then preoperative by 3.23 mm Hg , IOPcc reduced compared with preoperative by 1.51 mm Hg, and IOPg by 1.92 mm Hg

Conclusion IOP rise after phaco begins on the first postoperative day , reaching a maximum in 2 weeks. Then towards the end of the first month after surgery IOP returns to preoperative values. IOP reduction 1,5‐ 2 mm Hg starts after decrease of postoperative reactive syndrome 1 month after surgery
Contribution of "en face" SD‐OCT in retinal and choroidal vascular abnormalities
Authors: SCEMAMA TIMSIT C , MANASSEH N , MAUGET‐FAYSSE M , VASSEUR V , WOLFF B , SAHEL J
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE : To evaluate the retinal and choroidal aspect in retinal or choroidal vascular abnormalities using « en face » OCT images. METHODS : All the study patients underwent a complete ophthalmologic examination including biomicroscopic fundus examination, color photography, fundus autofluorescence, fluorescein angiography, indocyanin green angiography , B‐scan and « en face » SD‐OCT. RESULTS : A total of 11 patients with choroidal or retinal vascular abnormalities, 4 cases diagnosed with submacular choroidal varix, 2 cases of central serous chorioretinopathy with choroidal cavitations, 2 cases of retinal vein occlusion (RVO) with perivenular whitening and retinal ischemia, 3 cases of retinal arterial macroaneurysm were analysed. The B scan findings were correlated with the angiography findings as well as with the « en face » OCT scans. In all the cases the « en face » OCT providing a layer‐by layer view of the involved retina and choroid (with EDI mode: enhanced‐depth imaging). CONCLUSIONS : « En face » OCT imaging enables an easy analyse of the structural retinal and choroidal vascular abnormalities which are correlated with B scan OCT and angiography findings.
The coupling between neuronal activity and blood flow – What can we learn about glaucoma?
Authors: GARHOFER G
Published: August 2014

The coupling between neural activity and blood flow is an essential physiological mechanism to assure constant supply of the tissue with oxygen and nutrients. Although the exact molecular mechanisms are currently still focus of research, it has been shown that several ocular diseases are accompanied by a breakdown of neuro‐vascular coupling. As such, it has been shown that in patients with early stage glaucoma, the hyperemic response to visual stimulation is reduced. The talk aims to summarize our current knowledge on the physiological importance of neuro‐vascular coupling. In addition, the potential underlying physiological mechanism will be covered. Finally the role of neuro‐vascular coupling and its potential application in the diagnosis and follow up in neuro‐degenerative diseases such as glaucoma will be discussed.

Commercial interest
Plasmalogens, astrocytes, and retinal vascular development
Authors: ACAR N , SAAB S , CREUZOT‐GARCHER C , BRON AM , BRETILLON L
Published: August 2014

Sufficient oxygen and nutrient supplies to the retina are dependent on a correct development of blood vessels. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were shown to modulate factors involved in tissue vascularization. A congenital deficiency in ether‐linked phospholipids also termed as “plasmalogens” was shown to lead to abnormal ocular vascularization. Because plasmalogens are considered as reservoirs of PUFAs, we investigated whether they may influence retinal vascular development through the release of fatty acids by a specific phospholipase A2 (PLA2). Studies on mouse models of plasmalogen deficiency and of retinal PLA2 inhibition have shown that plasmalogens regulate retinal angiogenesis during early phases of retinal vascular development by influencing glial activity and primary astrocyte template formation. Subsequent modifications in the expression of genes involved in retinal angiogenesis impacted endothelial cell proliferation and retinal vessel outgrowth. These early defects in retinal vascular development led to a disorganized and dysfunctional retinal vascular network at adult age. These data suggest a crucial role of plasmalogens in retinal vascularization processes through a signalization involving PUFAs and PLA2.
Ocular rigidity: Biological importance and clinical implications
Authors: SCHMETTERER L
Published: August 2014

Ocular rigidity is a biomechanical property of the eye coats that depends on the relationship between pressure and volume changes in the eyeball. Generally, the relation between volume and pressure changes in the eye is characterized by the Friedenwald equation and its modifications. In glaucoma, alterations in the biomechanical properties of the eye coats have been hypothesized to play a critical role. The basic concept is that dependent on the stiffness of the eyeball the individual eye can tolerate higher or lower intraocular pressures. This concept has received support from model calculations as well as from animal studies. In humans, however, assessment of ocular rigidity is difficult. The present talk will summarize techniques that have been proposed for the measurement of the ocular volume and pressure pulse and discuss clinical applicability.
Herpes and Zoster corneal infections
Authors: LABETOULLE M
Published: August 2014

Abstract not provided
Acanthamoeba keratitis: a modern approach
Authors: YEUNG A
Published: August 2014

Abstract not provided
Types and functions of retinal glial
Authors: OSBORNE NN
Published: August 2014

This symposium will highlight some the functions associated with the three glial cell‐types of the retina. Glial cells actively interact with each other as well as with neurons and the vasculature and participate in the generation of the electroretinogram and spreading depression. Particularly prominent are the specialised Müller cells that span nearly the entire depth of the retina. Müller and astrocytes are resident immune cells constituting the “macroglial” and both express a wide variety of ion channels, receptors, and transporters regulating the microenvironment by controlling extracellular glutamate and potassium levels and modulate neuronal activity by release of gliotransmitters. Astrocytes also play a crucial part in retinal vascularisation, in the mature retina and are prominent in the nerve fibre and ganglion cell layers. Microglia, are resident macrophages and thus act as the first and main form of active immune defence in the retina. They are particularly associated with nerve processes occurring in the nerve fibre and plexiform layers.
Ocular surface anatomy and physiology underlying scleral lens application
Authors: KNOP E , KNOP N
Published: August 2014

Contact lenses (CL) are in the public interest mainly for cosmetic reasons. Because of supposed simplicity of fitting, adaption, care and safety, soft CL are the predominant type world‐wide. Only few rigid gas permeable (RGB) CL are applied even though it may appear that they have less side effects. Another type of CL rests on the sclera and is hence termed scleral lenses. In contrast to the aforementioned CL, that cover only the cornea (RGB) or extend just beyond, scleral lenses have a wide diameter and cover also a large part of the bulbar conjunctiva. This leads to different impact on the anatomy, physiology and pathology of the ocular surface. Below their apex is a deep tear pond that allows to cover even major deformations of the cornea as occur in keratokonus, recurrent surface defects or scars without touching them. New sophisticated diagnostic techniques e.g. for measuring ocular surface topography as well as advanced designs and materials of standard or custom made lenses have significantly improved the fitting and the wearing comfort of scleral lenses. Therefore, scleral lenses have emerged in recent years as a new and EVER more exciting medical tool for the dedicated ocular surface specialist.
Scleral Lenses in the United States
Authors: JACOBS D
Published: August 2014

There is growing acceptance of scleral lenses by ophthalmologists, optometrists, and patients in the United States. Options among mini‐scleral and scleral lenses will be reviewed. PROSE treatment (prosthetic replacement of the ocular surface ecosystem) as a therapeutic approach will be introduced. Success rate for PROSE treatment among patients with ectasia/astigmatism and in patients with ocular surface disease will be presented, as will experience with PROSE treatment in pediatric patients. Evidence for reversal of corneal scarring with PROSE treatment of ocular surface disease will be presented. Scleral lens and PROSE treatment are important alternatives to keratoplasty for corneal scarring and to tarsorrhaphy for exposure. Clinicians and researchers should be aware of scleral lens and PROSE treatment as important options for patients with ocular surface disease or contact lens intolerance, who may be at at higher risk of complications, contact lens dependence, or graft failure with penetrating keratoplasty.
The rebirth of sclearl lenses in Europe – 20 years of experience in treating ocular surface disease with scleral lenses
Authors: MANCZAK H
Published: August 2014

Concept of scleral lens implementation in diseased corneas can be probably dated at 1859 when William White Cooper used “glass mask” in patient with chemical burn. Scleral lens implementation was greatly limited due to oxygen deprivation under glass lenses then PMMA lenses causing significant adverse reactions. First article on implementation of GP scleral lens was published in 1983. Since then many designs of scleral lenses where developed. Besides neutralizing irregular astigmatism while fitting cases of KC, PMD, post trauma post PK etc. scleral lenses are used to heal and protect corneal epithelium and at the same time to correct refractive error. Scleral lenses have wide medical indications among them: Lagophthalmos, Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid, TEN Syndrome, Neurotrophic Ulcer, Chronic GVHD, Bullous Keratopathy. In the presentation: visual, healing and comfort outcomes of scleral lenses implementation in above diseases will be described and illustrated with pictures. In addition rotationally asymmetrical changes enabling achievement of designs which provide a maximally customized fit for each cornea will be discussed. Such modifications are the solution to overcoming the need for fitting compromises in distorted corneas.
How to identify patients with nutritional risk factors for AMD?
Authors: ASLAM T
Published: August 2014

Abstract not provided
Retinal vessel pathologies in a rat model of periventricular leucomalazia
Authors: LORENZ B , STECK J , BLUEML C , KAMPMANN S , GERSTNER B , MAIER RF , STIEGER K
Published: August 2014

Purpose Alternating oxygen levels during delivery and supplemental oxygen therapies can cause pathological vascularization of the retina (retinopathy of prematurity, ROP) and/or loss of oligodendrocytes in the periventricular area of the brain with subsequent white matter damage (periventricular leukomalacia (PVL). The aim of this study was to examine retinal vessel pathologies in the standard PVL rat model in order to identify uniform damage pathways.

Methods Ischemia was induced in post natal day (P) 6 Long Evans rats with unilateral (left side) carotid ligation (UCL) and exposure to different oxygen concentrations. In total, four different groups were examined: (A) hypoxia/ischemia (UCL + 6% O2, 1 h), (B) hyperoxia (80%O2, 24 h), (C) hypoxia/ischemia + hyperoxia (UCL + 6% O2, 1 h + 80% O2, 24h), (D) normoxia. Morphological analysis of vessel development was performed at P11 and P21. Quantitative PCR was performed at P7, P11, and P21 (VEGF, HIF1a, EPOR, TNFa, iNOS and BMP‐9).

Results Distinct retardation in deeper vascular plexus development was observed most prominent in left eyes of groups A and C. Diameters of big retinal arteries were significantly increased in central retinae at P21 and showed retardation in vascular remodeling. Left retinae of groups A and C at P11 displayed reduced capillary free zones (CFZ) and an increase in the number of branching points (BP). Quantitative gene expression analysis showed down regulation of angiogenic factors at P7.

Conclusion This is the first report on concurring damage to the retina that was evaluated in a model of white matter injury in the neonatal brain. We observed mild damage to the vessel development and maturation, which is the basis for a model for moderate forms of ROP.
Incidence and characteristics of congenital cataract surgery in France from 2010 to 2012
Authors: DAIEN V , ELIAOU‐MALRIEU C , LEPAPE A , HEVE D , VILLAIN M
Published: August 2014

Purpose Prevention of visual impairment due to congenital cataract is an international priority. Estimates of incidence are required for implementation and assessment of preventive strategies, but are lacking, despite routine monitoring of birth defects at a national level in many industrialized countries. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of congenital cataract in France between 2010 and 2012. Secondary objective was to assess the proportion of unilateral and bilateral cataract surgeries, age of surgery and implantation of intraocular lens or not.

Methods All children who undergo cataract surgery before 1 year of age in France between January 2010 and December 2012 were identiﬁed using the french national database of information systems. Incidence rate per year was estimate using the French database from the national institut of statistics.

Results In 3 years, 590 eyes in 464 children with 46.6 % of girls had a cataract surgery with 27.0 % of them having a bilateral surgery. In the first year of age, cataract surgery incidence was 1.87 / 10 000 birth in this period. Age (median [interquartile]) of surgery was 3.5 (2.2‐4.8) months. Among the 590 operated eyes, 28% (168 eyes) were not implanted with intraoculair lens.

Conclusion The incidence of congenital cataract in France is close to what was previously assessed in literature in industrialized world. Median age of surgery corresponds to recommendations. An important proportion of children was not primary implanted with an intraoculair lens.
Neosynephrine and tropicamide eyedrops for pupil dilation in premature infants is almost twice as efficient as tropicamide eyedrops alone
Authors: LUX AL , GUILLOIS B , DEGOUMOIS A , MOURIAUX F , DENION E
Published: August 2014

Purpose Retinopathy of prematurity screening requires pupil dilation of premature infants. While essential for reliable fundus examination, proper dilatation may sometimes be difficult to achieve in this population. The aim of our study was to compare the efficacy of two mydriatic regimens: one consisting in three drops of tropicamide 0.5% and the other one consisting in two drops of tropicamide 0.5% with one drop of phenylephrine 5%.

Methods Thirty premature infants were enrolled and each infant was dilated with one regimen in one eye and the other regimen in the other eye. The side of each regimen was determined by randomization. A photograph of each eye was taken. The photographs were anonymised and randomly presented to two independant readers. The effect of the two regimens was determined by calculating the ratio of pupil diameter divided by cornea diameter. Assuming that pupil and cornea are circle‐shaped, we calculated the ratio of pupil surface area relative to cornea surface area for both regimens.

Results The pupil to cornea diameters ratio was 46.7% (+/‐8.8) with tropicamide alone and 65.2%(+/‐6.0) with tropicamide‐phenylephrine combination. The ratio of pupil to cornea surface areas was 21.8% with tropicamide alone and 42.6% with tropicamide‐phenylephrine combination. In other words, the pupil surface area was 1.95 fold greater with tropicamide‐phenylephrine combination than with tropicamide alone.

Conclusion The use of a combination of two drops of tropicamide 0.5% with one drop of phenylephrine 5% is far more efficient than tropicamide alone to achieve proper pupil in premature infants.
Myopia and high myopia ‐ genetics and environmental factors
Authors: MORGAN I
Published: August 2014

Prevention of myopia is now urgent, since there is an epidemic of high myopia, as well as ordinary myopia, in East Asia. The prevalence of high myopia is now around 20%, compared to about 1% in older generations. This new, acquired, high myopia has an unusual developmental pattern, sitting at around 1% up to the age of 11‐13, and then increasing over the next 10 years, presumably as a result of early onset environmental myopia progressing to high myopia. A critical unanswered question is whether this acquired high myopia carries the same pathological burden as the older genetic form. This question is generally important, because the prevalence of myopia appears to be rising in Europe and North America, and the prevalence of high myopia is probably increasing as well. Fortunately, it is now generally accepted that environmental change in educational pressures and the time that children spend outdoors must be responsible for the 3‐4‐fold increase in the prevalence of myopia in East Asia. In contrast, identified SNPs currently account for less than 5% of phenotypic variation. Recent trials based on increasing the amount of time that children spend outdoors suggest that incident myopia, and hence high myopia, can be prevented.
Scleral crosslinking as a therapeutic approach to treat progressive myopia
Authors: ISELI HP
Published: August 2014

Introduction Elongation of the bulbus is the main cause of high myopia. Light induced scleral crosslinking is suggested as a therapeutic approach to prevent extensive eye elongation . Data about efficient light intensities and light‐induced damage threshold of retinal tissue are not conclusive. There are no data available about the effect on eye growth of light induced crosslinking in an animal model. Material an methods In vitro and in vivo experiments in rabbits were performed with riboflavin/blue light application for scleral crosslinking. Mechanical stiffening effects were studied by means of rheology and tissue damage threshold were characterized by histology and electron microscopy. Results Collagen Crosslinking by riboflavin/blue light stiffens the scleral tissue and induced a significant reduction of eye growth in young rabbits without damaging effects on retinal tissue. Conclusion Riboflavin/Blue light treatment might be a promissing treatment to control eye growth and therefore, to prevent high myopia. More investigations are needed to establish optimal treatment parameters.

Commercial interest
Variation and limitations of the amniotic membrane
Authors: DUA H
Published: August 2014

Abstract not provided
Brachytherapy of uveal melanomas
Authors: KIVELÄ T
Published: August 2014

Radioactive plaque brachytherapy is currently the most common treatment modality for primary uveal melanoma. The American Brachytherapy Society consensus guidelines for brachytherapy of uveal melanoma, revised in 2014, are summarised. Several isotopes are used for brachytherapy of the eye, such as strontium‐90 and ruthenium‐106 (beta rays, embedded within the plaque) and palladium‐103 and iodine‐125 (gamma rays, seeds attached to the plaque). The isotope determines how thick tumours can be irradiated (strontium up to 3 mm, ruthenium up to 6 mm, iodine and palladium over 6 mm) and to which extent scatter radiation will affect neighbouring tissues. The plaque is implanted under local or general anaesthesia, localising the tumor by indirect ophthalmoscopy and scleral depression or transillumination. The size and shape of the plaque are chosen according to the size and shape of the melanoma. Most common complications are radiation cataract, retinopathy and optic neuropathy, depending on the location of the tumour, and iris rubeosis and neovascular glaucoma when managing larger tumours. Brachytherapy results for small melanomas irradiated with ruthenium and large melanomas irradiated with iodine are presented as examples.
Anti‐VEGF in the retina
Authors: NG E
Published: August 2014

Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF‐A) was initially discovered as an endothelial cell‐specific growth factor, and current evidence suggests that it also plays numerous roles outside the vasculature, perhaps most significantly in the nervous system. We previously determined a neuroprotective role for both exogenous and endogenous VEGF‐A in the adult rodent retina during acute ischemia‐reperfusion injury. Furthermore, we demonstrated that endogenous VEGF‐A is critical for maintaining neuron survival in normal adult retina, that long‐term systemic and local VEGF antagonism resulted in significant loss of retinal ganglion cells. More recently, a primary retinal ganglion cell culture model was used to investigate the molecular basis of VEGF‐A’s neuroprotective function, and the importance of VEGF‐A to neuron survival was evaluated in models of glaucoma. Our findings reinforce the essential role for VEGF‐A in retinal neuron survival and have potential implications for therapeutic anti‐VEGF‐A in conditions associated with retinal ganglion cell distress.
French military ophthalmologists experience in Afghanistan War ‐ 2006 ‐ 2013
Authors: GIRAUD JM , EL CHEHAB H , VALERO B , VIGNAL R , RENARD JP
Published: August 2014

French military ophthalmologists were deployed in Kabul, Afghanistan, since 2006 till december 2013. Their activity first focus was traumatic ocular injuries, concerning NATO forces and Afghan National Army soldiers. They also provided humanitary support to Afghan civilians, offering medical and surgical care. Kabul’s NATO French leaded hospital was equipped with high level examination, investigation and surgical treatment facilities, giving possibility to care all type of ocular emergencies. During 7 years, ophthalmologists realised 1000 surgical interventions. One third were done for traumatic injuries, the two other thirds were mainly cataract surgeries for Afghan population. 95% of all surgeries were for Afghan peoples and 5% interested NATO soldiers and contractors. Consultations were 25% for NATO forces, foreign civilians from embassies, international organisations and contractors and 75% for Afghan population. 10% of patients presented post traumatic ocular pathologies. The high level of equipement in the new NATO Hospital offered possibility to recieve Afghan ophthalmologists for mentoring and practical training.