bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Richard Bancroft and Anti‐Puritanism (2012)
Authors: Morrill John
Published: September 2015

This essay begins by exploring the difficult personal circumstances in which Pat Collinson completed his final book – suffering from cancer, far from Cambridge and with his private library largely dispersed. It examines how this return to the sources he had pondered for half a century allowed him to make one last effort to get inside the minds of the godly ministers and laymen whose struggle for the soul of the Church of England he had so long admired and struggled to understand. Now he explored them through a study of their close encounters with and battles against their greatest opponent within the Church's establishment, Richard Bancroft, in sequence chaplain to the Lord Chancellor, then bishop of London, and (from 1604) archbishop of Canterbury. It explores Bancroft's obsession (his ‘Moby Dick’) with a supposed conspiracy of international Calvinism to take over Great Britain. The essay explores Collinson's empathy with Bancroft's puritan opponents and lack of empathy with his Catholic enemies, and concludes by finding much to admire in the heroic engagement with treacherous evidence that often misleads as to its completeness.
The Reformation (2003); or, Religious Change in Early Modern Europe from a Safe Distance
Authors: Greengrass Mark
Published: September 2015

Patrick Collinson's The Reformation (2003) was written for the audience of a new century, where a Christian heritage in which the Reformation necessarily mattered could not be taken as read. This essay explores how Collinson sought to present the Reformation as a single entity, with a Weberian emphasis on Luther as a charismatic intervention in history at its starting point. He establishes a relationship of distance between the Reformation and modernity by incorporating the historiography of the subject into our understanding of it. He also underlines the inner dynamic of relationships between ideas and the cultural and material landscape in which they took root and had meaning. It is not surprising, perhaps, given the focus of his scholarship, that it should emphasize a British exceptionalism. More surprising is how it fails to come to terms with the radical divisiveness, violence and destructiveness of the Reformation experience.
Comparison of Multiple Hazard Rate Functions
Authors: Chen Zhongxue , Huang Hanwen , Qiu Peihua
Published: September 2015

Many robust tests have been proposed in the literature to compare two hazard rate functions, however, very few of them can be used in cases when there are multiple hazard rate functions to be compared. In this article, we propose an approach for detecting the difference among multiple hazard rate functions. Through a simulation study and a real-data application, we show that the new method is robust and powerful in many situations, compared with some commonly used tests.
Indoor cold exposure and nocturia: a cross‐sectional analysis of the HEIJO‐KYO study
Authors: Saeki Keigo , Obayashi Kenji , Kurumatani Norio
Published: September 2015

Objectives

To investigate the association between indoor cold exposure and the prevalence of nocturia in an elderly population.

Subjects and Methods

The temperature in the living rooms and bedrooms of 1 065 home‐dwelling elderly volunteers (aged ≥60 years) was measured for 48 h. Nocturia (≥2 voids per night) and nocturnal urine production were determined using a urination diary and nocturnal urine collection, respectively.

Results

The mean ± sd age of participants was 71.9 ± 7.1 years, and the prevalence of nocturia was 30.8%. A 1 °C decrease in daytime indoor temperature was associated with a higher odds ratio (OR) for nocturia (1.075, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.026–1.126; P = 0.002), independently of outdoor temperature and other potential confounders such as basic characteristics (age, gender, body mass index, alcohol intake, smoking), comorbidities (diabetes, renal dysfunction), medications (calcium channel blocker, diuretics, sleeping pills), socio‐economic status (education, household income), night‐time dipping of ambulatory blood pressure, daytime physical activity, objectively measured sleep efficiency, and urinary 6‐sulphatoxymelatonin excretion. The association remained significant after adjustment for nocturnal urine production rate (OR 1.095 [95% CI 1.042–1.150]; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Indoor cold exposure during the daytime was independently associated with nocturia among elderly participants. The explanation for this association may be cold‐induced detrusor overactivity. The prevalence of nocturia could be reduced by modification of the indoor thermal environment.
The Play‐Learning Binary: U.S. Parents’ Perceptions on Preschool Play in a Neoliberal Age
Authors: Kane Nazneen
Published: September 2015

Although many studies have examined parental decision‐making patterns in regard to early childhood care and education, few studies have examined how parents’ perceptions on play influence those patterns. This study explores parental perceptions regarding play in early education and the broader socioeconomic context within which these perceptions emerge. Twenty parents of preschool‐aged children completed questionnaires comprised of ratings and open‐ended questions. Findings indicate that the parents in this study defined play and learning in binary terms as opposed to mutually constitutive processes. Subsequently, while parents rated play as important, they also described it as peripheral to, and less important than, the acquisition of literacy and numeracy skills. This study argues that this binary thinking is an outgrowth of neoliberalism and ultimately undermines child well‐being.
Impact of intraoperative microperfusion assessment with Pinpoint Perfusion Imaging on surgical management of laparoscopic low rectal and anorectal anastomoses
Authors: Gröne J. , Koch D. , Kreis M. E.
Published: September 2015

Aim

Inadequate intestinal blood flow may contribute to anastomotic leakage accounting for substantial morbidity and mortality in colorectal surgery. Precise intraoperative assessment of microperfusion may have an impact on the surgeon0s intraoperative management and leakage rate.

Method

In this single center observational study we implemented and integrated intraoperative indocyanin green (ICG) based microperfusion assessment of anastomosis with Pinpoint Perfusion Imaging in a series of consecutive rectal cancer patients who underwent laparoscopic anterior and lower anterior resection with primary anastomosis during a 5‐months period.

Results

We could demonstrate the feasibility and safety of intraoperative fluorescence angiography for colorectal microperfusion assessment. Technology implementation was immediately successful. No adverse effects have been documented related to fluorescent dye. Microperfusion angiography of the colon succeeded in all cases and assessment of perfusion imaging influenced surgical decision making in 28% of the patients, of which all patients showed primary healing of the anastomosis. We found a leakage rate of 6% with one leakage of a coloanal anastomosis in all patients.

Conclusion

Fluorescence angiography is an accurate tool for assessing microperfusion and is most likely associated with improved outcomes with regard to anastomotic healing.
Navigating the profits and pitfalls of governmental partnerships: the ICRC and intergovernmental relief, 1918–23
Authors: Lowe Kimberly A.
Published: September 2015

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is today a staunch proponent of the need for humanitarian organisations to remain independent of state interests, yet it deliberately solicited intergovernmental intervention in international relief after the First World War of 1914–18. This paper examines why an organisation committed to upholding the independence and impartiality of humanitarian action might still choose to partner with governmental bodies. It also highlights the historical beginnings of a linkage between international aid and geopolitics. To secure governmental funding for refugee relief during the 1920s, the ICRC argued that the humanitarian crises of the post‐war years were a threat to the political and social stability of Europe. While this has become axiomatic, the interwar history of the ICRC demonstrates that the perceived connection between relief and geopolitical stability is historically constructed, and that it must continue to be asserted persuasively to be effective.
Development of a normative framework for disaster relief: learning from colonial famine histories in India
Authors: Akerkar Supriya
Published: September 2015

Contemporary academic debates on the history of the colonial Famine Codes in India—also considered to be the first coded and institutionalised normative frameworks for natural disaster response on the continent—generally are based on one of two perspectives. The first focuses on their economic rationale, whereas the second underlines that they constitute an anti‐famine contract between the colonial masters and the people of India. This paper demonstrates that both of these viewpoints are limited in scope and that they simplify the nature of governance instituted through famine response practices in Colonial India. It links this reality to current disaster response policies and practices in India and shows that the discussion on the development of normative frameworks underlying disaster response is far from over. The paper goes on to evaluate the development of normative frameworks for disaster response and recovery, which remain embroiled in the politics of governmentality that underlies their development.
The development of manufactured flood risk: New Orleans' mid‐century growth machine and the hurricane of 1947
Authors: Youngman Nicole
Published: September 2015

Much of the flood risk faced by coastal and riparian populations worldwide is manufactured rather than strictly natural—the outcome of human development projects involving municipal growth machines. This paper details the impacts of the hurricane of September 1947 on New Orleans, Louisiana, United States, and its relationship with the urban development and expansion efforts undertaken during and after the Second World War of 1939–45. New Orleans' newest drainage and shipping canals, which were a major part of its mid‐twentieth century development initiative, funnelled the storm surge into the city, a pattern that would repeat itself in subsequent years. Unlike more infamous hurricanes, such as Betsy and Katrina of 1965 and 2005, respectively, the 1947 event is not well‐known among disaster researchers. Yet, it provides a fundamental example of how local elites have continuously exacerbated flood risk throughout the city and surrounding area, leaving it simultaneously dependent on and endangered by its embedded system of drainage and shipping canals.
Using otolith microchemistry to reconstruct habitat use ofAmerican eelsAnguilla rostratain theSt.LawrenceRiver–LakeOntario system
Authors: Benchetrit José , Béguer‐Pon Mélanie , Sirois Pascal , Castonguay Martin , Fitzsimons John , Dodson Julian J.
Published: September 2015

Catadromy among freshwater eels is increasingly recognised as being facultative, with some individuals carrying out growth exclusively in brackish or coastal marine waters, or switching between brackish or marine waters and freshwater habitats. In an attempt to reconstruct habitat use of yellow‐stage American eels in a large river‐lake ecosystem, trace element line scans were obtained, usingLA‐ICP‐MS, from the otoliths of 110 eels sampled at various locations throughout the St. Lawrence River–Lake Ontario (SLRLO) system. Elemental profiles for strontium (Sr), barium (Ba), manganese (Mn) and magnesium (Mg) enabled us to distinguish three chemical signatures that appear to represent three distinct habitats within theSLRLO. Of these, one was shown to likely correspond to the brackish estuary (high strontium values). The other two signatures, characterised by low strontium but variable concentrations of barium and manganese, may correspond to habitats within the main‐stem St. Lawrence River and one or more of its tributaries. Most (78%) of the switches among habitats occurred within the first four years after recruitment suggesting an increasing likelihood for eels to maintain residence in one habitat as they grow older. This suggests that tributaries may provide important habitats for American eels during the first several years after recruiting to theSLRLO. In addition, our results suggest that a small proportion American eels in theSLRLOcan undertake movements on the order of at least 200 km during the early growth stage. This information has important implications for the management and conservation of this species in the system.
Should we call them fishers or fishermen?
Authors: Branch Trevor A , Kleiber Danika
Published: September 2015

‘Fishermen’ and the gender‐neutral ‘fishers’ are the most common terms used to describe people who fish in the English language. However, there is a considerable debate as to which term is most appropriate. In academic journals, usage of ‘fishers’ for people who fish began in the 1960s and increased over time, until in 2013 and 2014 ‘fishers’ first exceeded usage of ‘fishermen’, despite being labelled ‘archaic’ in the Oxford English Dictionary. In journal searches ‘fishermen’ unambiguously referred to people who fish, but ‘fishers’ also referred to R.A. Fisher's statistical tests (22%), the mammal, Pekania pennanti (5%), and other terms. Journal policies have played a role in the shift to ‘fishers’: e.g. Conservation Biology requires the use of ‘fishers’ while Fishery Bulletin requires ‘fishermen’. Partly as a result, in academia there are disciplinary and geographic variations, with greatest usage of ‘fishers’ in the field of conservation biology and in Australia. Surprisingly, word choice did not differ by the gender of the lead author. Many other languages also have gender‐neutral terms for people who fish (e.g. Austronesian and Turkic languages), yet the word is still assumed to refer to men. While the gender‐neutral term ‘fisher’ is more inclusive it is far from universally accepted, particularly by women and men in the North American fishing industry. The current shift towards the more inclusive term ‘fishers’ highlights the increasing disciplinary diversity within fisheries science, particularly in terms of gender.
Factors Governing the Impact of Emerged Salt Diapirs on Water Resources
Authors: Zarei M.
Published: September 2015

Salt diapirs in southern Iran are typically in contact with karstic and alluvial aquifers and consequently they are the most likely sources of groundwater salinization in this arid region. However, there are some salt diapirs that have no significant degradation effect on adjacent aquifers. Assessments of 62 of 122 Iranian‐emerged salt diapirs based on geological, geomorphological, hydrogeological, and hydrochemical investigations indicated that 45% of the studied salt diapirs did not have a negative impact on surrounding water resources, whereas 55% of the salt diapirs have degraded water quality of adjacent aquifers. The impacts ranged from low‐ to high‐grade salinization. We characterize here four major factors that control the impact of salt diapirs on surrounding water resources: (1) the evolutionary stage of the diapir, (2) the geological and (3) hydrogeological setting of the diapir, and (4) human activities. Identification of the major factors governing the influence of salt diapirs on the adjacent aquifers is necessary to understand the mechanism of salt diapir impact on adjacent aquifers, and subsequently to decide how to mitigate the deteriorating effect of the diapirs on the surrounding water resources.
Instrument assisted diagnostics – biometry, topography and wave‐front analysis
Authors: Eppig T. , Spira C. , Seitz B. , Szentmáry N. , Langenbucher A.
Published: September 2015

Patient selection and planning implantation of a toric intraocular lens requires sophisticated measurement of ocular biometry in order to facilitate a valid calculation of the implant. Biometric measurements such as videokeratometry or corneal tomography, may also assist in qualifying patients for toric lens implantation, e.g. detecting keratoconus, pellucide marginal degeneration or other contraindications. Keratometers mostly provide simulated keratometry values, which do not always reflect the amount of the regular astigmatism that could be corrected by a toric intraocular lens. Therefore, it is mandatory to differentiate between regular and irregular components of corneal astigmatism. Axial length measurements require additional attention, especially when using ultrasound biometry. Wave‐front analysis may advance assessment of centration and rotation errors of toric implants.
Indications, patient selection, pre‐ and postoperative patient care
Authors:  Szentmary N.
Published: September 2015

First we discuss different principle options of correction for corneal astigmatism, e.g. posterior chamber IOLs, phakic IOLs, and add‐on IOLs. Major indication and inclusion/exclusion criteria for patients are shown and an overview on actual toric lenses with technical specifications and correction range are provided. Thereafter, we focus especially on toric intraocular lens implantation following penetrating keratoplasty. We summarize how to counsel patients about treatment options, preoperative and postoperative care and how to prepare the eye for the surgery. At the end, the postoperative care, evaluation and management of complications are discussed.
Intraoperative optical coherence tomography (iOCT) in toric IOL implantation
Authors: Wylegala E.
Published: September 2015

The effectiveness of the correction of astigmatism depends on the accuracy of the IOL position in the lens capsule. Removal of viscoelastic from the bag and the right IOL centration have a direct impact on the effectiveness of this IOL. Intraoperative use of OCT in real time (RESCAN 700 Zeiss) allows the evaluation of IOL in the bag position. iOCT plays role in the estimation of the distance from the posterior capsule of the lens. The use of iOCT allows to achieve an improved surgical results in patients with cataract and coexisting astigmatism.
Clinico‐pathologic correlations of unusual lesions of eyelid tumors
Authors: Loeffler K.
Published: September 2015

Management of eyelid lesions depends a lot on the presumptive diagnosis. By presenting some unusual tumours and their histopathologic correlate we would like to raise the awareness of specific features that will eventually help to better assess potentially benign or malignant neoplasms.
Basis of eyelid reconstruction after tumor resection
Authors: Briscoe D.
Published: September 2015

Eyelid reconstruction following tumour excision should be performed with two main goals in mind: the restoration of normal eyelid function, and a good cosmetic result. Strict observance of several surgical principles will ensure achieving those goals. These include, providing stable eyelid margins, reconstruction of the missing layers, including skin muscle and conjunctiva, and solid support between the outer and inner layer. The choice of which type of reconstruction to perform should be considered carefully bearing in mind the visual status of the contralateral eye, the extent of the defect, and the age, health and mobility of the patient. Surgery should be performed using operating loops, a good light source, and in conditions of minimal bleeding. Good surgical reconstruction allows restoration of excellent visual function and a happy, comfortable patient.
Introduction: DME in vitrectomized eyes
Authors: Xirou T.
Published: September 2015

Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) is the most frequent cause of vision loss related to diabetes.

The etiology of DME is multifactorial, and different treatment modalities are targeting to different triggering factors.

The spectrum of treatment options include corticosteroids, anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor agents, laser treatment, combined therapy, pars plana vitrectomy, even if no epiretinal membrane is present.

The beneficial effect of vitrectomy on diabetic macular edema is attributed to improved oxygenation of the retina. However many patients may require drug therapy following the surgical procedure. The widespread distribution and increased circulation of intra‐vitreally administered drugs in vitrectomized eyes might be rensposible for rapid clearance and reduced effectiveness of drug therapy. In vitrectomized eyes, sustained‐release drugs could be particular useful.
Update on treatment strategies for LHON
Authors: Yu‐Wai‐Man P.
Published: September 2015

Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is an important cause of severe bilateral visual loss among young adults. This presentation will review the evidence base for the various treatment strategies that have been put forward to treat this mitochondrial disorder, including future developments. Innovative IVF techniques to prevent the maternal transmission of pathogenic mitochondrial DNA mutations will also be discussed.
Scleral lens as a first therapeutic weapon in severe ocular burns
Authors: Mekki M.B. , Yahiaoui S. , Titah O. , Belaoudmou R.
Published: September 2015

Purpose

To demonstrate the spectacular effect of therapeutic scleral lens in healing severe ocular burns.

Methods

Retrospective study of 6 eyes with severe ocular burns, complete limbal stem cell deficiency with limbal ischemia in 360°, corneal anaesthesia and resistant to medical treatment for more than 2 weeks without healing tendancy, presenting large complete corneal and limbal ulcer, fitted with therapeutic scleral lens Misa lens (Microlens*, The Netherlands) for continuous daily wear and filled with saline solution and daily control with fluid exchange.

Results

All eyes had complete re‐epithelialisation in 1–3 weeks under therapeutic scleral lens alone, The healing proccess began from peripheral conjunctival epithelial cells.

Conclusions

Therapeutic scleral lens is magic solution to manage severe ocular burns and may be used as first therapeutic weapon.These cases show that epithelial stem cells are presents in all ocular surface not only limbus.
Non‐antagonistic influences of intrastromal corneal ring on primary human microvascular endothelial cells from adult donors in a tissue culture system
Authors: Storsberg J. , Träg S. , Messner A. , Rehfeldt S. , Klöpzig S. , Jentzen V. , Bohrisch J. , Schmidt C.
Published: September 2015

Purpose

Insertion of the Krumeich corneal intrastromal ring (KR) appears to restrict superficial vascularization of donor corneal tissue. The purpose of this report was to determine cytotoxic effects of the KR using tissue culture of primary HMVEC.

Methods

Soluble growth medium extracts of individual components of the KR alloy were prepared and HMVEC cells were exposed to these extracts in triplicates for one day and a subsequent MTT assay. Furthermore, HMVEC were grown for five days onto either KR or polypropylene discs coated with individual components of the KR alloy, followed by staining with FDA/PI.

Results

MTT assays revealed that higher doses of extracts appeared to reduce the viability of HMVEC, while highly diluted extracts of Mo powder appeared to increase the metabolic activity of HMVEC. FDA/PI staining showed few live HMVEC on either Co or Mo‐coated propylene discs, compared to the respective Ti and Cr counterparts. Viable HMVEC appear attached to the KR after a 5 day incubation period.

Conclusion

The Krumeich ring does not appear to exert measurable cytotoxic effects in our chosen assay system. High dilutions of Mo powder extracts appear to increase the metabolic activity of HMVEC.
Clinical relevance of ANS dysfunction in glaucoma management
Authors: Abegao Pinto L.
Published: September 2015

Research for autonomic nervous system dysfunctions (ANS) in glaucoma patients has a two‐fold interest for the glaucoma specialist. On one hand, it provides the physician with a set of results that demonstrate the extent of the underlying systemic and ocular dysfunction. These data may provide clues as to why the disease is continuing to progress and may therefore help guide glaucoma management. While strategies towards correcting these imbalances have not been definitely proven to affect the outcome of glaucoma, there are an increasing number of anedoctal data that suggests they may have a positive impact in disease progression. Moreover, signalling the extent of the systemic dysregulation may help identify other, non‐ocular related problems and thus be ultimately beneficial to the patients in the long term. More research is still needed to idenfity which patients are more likely to benefict from undergoing ANS function tests and – should any dysfunction be found – what would be the most consistent treatment strategy.
The RPE/photoreceptor complex
Authors: Osborne N.
Published: September 2015

The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)/ photoreceptor complex constitutes the choroid, bruch's membrane and the photoreceptor outer segments. The RPE interacts with bruch's membrane and the photoreceptors, which it faces across the subretinal space. In these interactions the RPE acts as three types of cell ‐ epithelium, macrophage, and glia. There are a number of selective interactions between the choroid, bruch's membrane, RPE and photoreceptors related to ion and water transport, vitamin A transport, phagocytosis of shed portions of outer segments, ensheathment of photoreceptors outer segments, and electrical responses. One purpose of the course is to discuss the RPE/photoreceptor complex in terms of structure and function.
Turn off the tap: Inflow surgery comes of age with ECP
Authors: Bloom P. , Clement C. , Sharkawi E. , Grieshaber M.
Published: September 2015

For almost 50 years, trabeculectomy has been considered the ‘gold standard’ procedure in the surgical management of the Glaucoma patient. The operation undoubtedly works well in many surgeons’ hands, and over the last 20 years small changes in surgical technique have improved the safety profile of guarded sclerostomy. ‘Tube’ surgery has also long been widely advocated and debate rages about which of these two mainstream treatments should be the de facto surgery for glaucoma.

In a continued attempt to improve the surgical risk/benefit ratio, there have more recently been advocated other surgical glaucoma procedures, which may in time take on the mantle of ‘standard of care’.

Our SIS presents a selection of these new treatments as a basis for a robust discussion of why and how we offer surgery to control our patients’ disease with the ultimate aim of preserving their vision as effectively and safely as possible.
Controversies on heavy SiO endotamponade
Authors: Le Mer Y.
Published: September 2015

Silicone oil (SIO) is a useful tool, mainly in retinal detachment cases complicated with PVR or in some specific cases.

A limitation of the tamponade effect of is due to its specific gravity lighter than water which means that recurrences of PVR are always in the inferior retina because of gravity leaving some liquid under the oil bubble where proliferative agents may concentrate.

An answer to this was given by modifying the chemical compounds of SIO, adding different substances increasing the specific weight over that of water, thus introducing the “heavier than water” SIO. Five different products are available, Densiron and Oxane HD being the most used.

There is still a lot of controversies on heavy SIOs regarding their potential toxicity due to the additional compounds and the stability of the mixture, regarding the potential interaction when directly exchanged with PFCL.

In an unfinished prospective study comparing “classical”SIO and heavy ones, the interim analysis after one year follow up in PVR cases didn't find any advantage in the use of heavy SIO. These results seem to finally close the last controversy on their usefulness in this indication.

Nevertheless, heavy SIO keep perhaps some indications in specific cases.
Fundus autofluorescence imaging in Ocular Oncology
Authors: Scemama Timsit C. , Mauget‐Faÿsse M. , Wolff B.
Published: September 2015

Purpose

To evaluate fundus autofluorescence aspect in retinal and choroidal tumor, paraneoplastic syndrome and intraocular lymphoma.

Methods

All the study patients underwent a complete ophthalmologic examination including biomicroscopic, fundus examination, color photography, fundus autofluorescence, fluorescein angiography, indocyanin green angiography and SD‐OCT.

Results

A total of 14 patients with choroidal or retinal tumor or paraneoplastic syndrome were analysed. 3 cases diagnosed with choroidal melanoma, 1 case of melanocytoma, 2 cases of choroidal nevi, 2 cases of choroidal metastasis, 2 cases of choroidal hemangioma, 1 case of choroidal osteoma, 1 case of intraocular lymphoma, 2 cases of paraneoplastic syndrome (1 BDUMP and 1 AEPPVM) were analysed. The color fundus photographs, angiography and B‐scan findings were compared with FAF imaging. In most of cases FAF imaging is perfectly corellated with, color fundus photographs, angiography, and OCT findings (orange pigment, drusens, calcifications, pseudovitelliform deposits, atrophy…).

Conclusion

FAF imaging allows a very interesting analysed in ocular oncology without used of dye, a good correlation was found with color fundus photographs, angiography and OCT findings.
Anatomic, biochemical and functional evidence for cone injury in glaucoma
Authors: Nork T.M. , Kim C.B.Y. , Nickells R.W. , Ver Hoeve J.N.
Published: September 2015

Purpose

To investigate outer retinal injury in glaucoma.

Methods

Studies were done on human glaucomatous eyes as well as eyes from a laser trabecular meshwork destruction model of experimental glaucoma (EG) in non‐human primates (NHPs), including light microscopy and in situ hybridization (ISH) for mRNA using probes specific for rod, S‐cone and M/L‐cone opsins. Choroidal blood flow (ChBF) was measured using non‐recirculating fluorescent microspheres. Functional studies on the NHP eyes included multifocal and full‐field electroretinography (mfERG and ffERG).

Results

Swelling of M/L‐cones) was a common finding in both the glaucomatous human and NHP EG eyes. Cone loss was also observed in some of the human eyes. ISH for mRNA showed reduced levels in both the S‐ and M/L‐cones in human glaucoma and NHP EG. Supranormal mfERG waveforms were a common feature of the NHP EG eyes. ChBF was greatly reduced in eyes with EG. The ffERG in NHP eyes with advanced EG showed larger reductions in photopic than in scotopic a‐ and b‐wave single‐flash responses; particularly at higher intensities.

Conclusion

Multiple lines of evidence show cone injury in human glaucoma and in NHP EG. Reduced ChBF could be the cause.
Does IOL choice impact on Driving Performance?
Authors: Beiko G.
Published: September 2015

Purpose

Does the IOL implanted at cataract surgery affects the driving habits and crash risk of patients.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of patients who met the visual requirements for a drivers license and had bilateral implantation of the same lens. The patients had at least 2 years of follow‐up. Two groups of patients were identified; each with one of two types of acrylic IOLs. Both groups were given the Driving Habits Questionnaire, by a single investigator.

Results

90 patients participated; 51 had acrylic IOL type A and 39 had acrylic IOL type B. The demographics were similar for age, sex, diabetes, glaucoma and IOL power implanted. Group A was more likely to have road traffic accidents (P = 0.066) and less likely to drive at the same speed or faster than general flow of traffic (P = 0.094). Group A to be less likely to have travelled beyond their immediate neighbourhood, to be less likely to rate their quality of driving at average or above and to be more likely to have difficulty driving at night; but this did not reach significance.

Conclusions

At 2 years postoperatively, the choice of IOL implanted at the time of cataract surgery may have an impact on driving habit and crash risk.
Allergic mediators in tears: what's new?
Authors: Leonardi A.
Published: September 2015

The identification of inflammatory mediators in tear fluid have been used in ocular allergy: (a) to identify a ‘disease marker’; (b) to understand the immune mechanisms involved; (c) to correlate the severity of the disease; (d) to identify potential targets for therapeutic interventions; (e) as an indicator of treatment outcomes. Limitations of these findings are the lack of extensive validation of candidate biomarkers and the lack of determination of the specificity of the candidate markers. The increased concentrations of mast cell derived mediators in tears, such as tryptase and histamine, have been considered biomarkers of allergic IgE‐mediated response, while ECP levels is considered a specific biomarker of both allergic IgE‐ and non‐IgE‐mediated allergic conjunctivitis. The increased production and activation of cytokines, growth factors, imbalance between MMPs and TIMPs, are all involved in the pathogenesis of conjunctival inflammation, remodeling and corneal changes typical of chronic severe allergies. It is possible that patients with diseases can have a different protein profile and, therefore, protein or peptide analysis can be used as a possible fingerprint for disease biomarkers and pathological molecule identification.
Capsular opacification and accommodative lens refilling
Authors: Koopmans S.
Published: September 2015

After lens refilling with a silicone polymer, accommodation has been demonstrated in rhesus monkeys. However, coinciding with the development of capsular opacification the accommodative amplitude decreases to zero. Several strategies may be followed to prevent the development of capsular opacification. A straight forward strategy is the attempt to destroy remaining lens epithelial cells in the lens capsule by cytotoxic drugs. By isolating the lens capsular bag from the rest of the anterior chamber the lens capsule may be selectively treated with drugs. Our experiments in various animal models have shown that lens epithelial cells are very resistant to these treatments. This suggests that better strategies are needed. In further experiments we found that the choice of a proper biomaterial in the capsular bag may also significantly influence the capsular opacification response. Results of lens refilling with Hyaluronan and functionalized nanogels will be discussed.
Gene therapy in LHON
Authors: Vignal‐Clermont C. , Corral Debrinski M. , Sahel J.A.
Published: September 2015

Gene therapy is a promise for the treatment of Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON). The techniques required for introducing genes into mitochondria have not yet been developed and allotopic expression is one means of circumventing this barrier. To ensure efficient mitochondrial uptake of the nuclear expressed mtDNA gene, the protein should have a mitochondrial targeting signal (MTS). We have optimized allotopic expression by targeting the mRNAs to the mitochondrial surface with a specific 3′UnTranslated Region (UTR) which can cooperate with the MTS for ensuring the localization of ND4 mRNA to the mitochondrial surface. After having collected data proving that an AAV2/2 vector carrying this therapeutic ND4 gene meets the criteria of robust, long‐duration gene expression, and safety in LHON rat model and non human primate retinas, we are leading a phase I/II, open‐label, prospective clinical trial with dose escalation, which intends to evaluate safety of this gene therapy administered in one single intravitreal (IVT) injection in humans with chronic ND4 LHON. Actually 9 patients were included and no SAE or treatment‐related systemic AE occurred. At last, we look forward to be successful in the generation of a treatment for patients suffering from ND4 LHON.
The immunoproteasome in human lens epithelial cells during oxidative stress
Authors: Petersen A. , Zetterberg M.
Published: September 2015

The immunoproteasome has been detected not only in immune‐tissue, but also in non‐immune tissues like the immune‐privileged eye. The aim of this study was to investigate if the immunoproteasome is present in cultured human lens epithelial cells and in human lenses with cataract, as well as to measure expression and activity of immunoproteasome subunits in response to oxidative stress.

Expression of the immunoproteasome and constitutive proteasome subunits b1i/b1, b2i/b2 and b5i/b5 were studied by western blot in lens fibre extracts from phacoemulsification surgery, in fresh lens capsule pieces with adherent cells obtained during cataract surgery as well as in oxidatively stressed native human lens epithelial cells (HLECs) in culture.

The present study shows that the immunoproteasome is present in native HLECs and in human cataractous lenses. Furthermore, in native HLECs, oxidative stress upregulates immunoproteasome expression in contrast to the constitutive proteasome. The increased expression of the immunoproteasome is not accompanied by increased chymotrypsin‐like activity.

Invited SIS speaker at Oxidation and defense in the ocular lens (SIS organizers, Per Söderberg and Madeleine Zetterberg).
Using OCT to evaluate the funny looking disc
Authors: Borruat F.X.
Published: September 2015

Optic nerve appearance (optic disc swelling, atrophy, excavation) can be sometimes challenging, even to the experienced ophthalmologist. Namely, it may be difficult to distinguish early papilledema from pseudopapilledema. OCT can reveal abnormalities which can frequently help to establish the correct diagnosis and organize the proper investigations, if necessary. At the end of the session, the participants should be able to identify the OCT features suggestive of either true papilledema or pseudopapilledema/optic disc drusen.
Review of the anatomical and physiological bases of stability of gaze
Authors: Borruat F.X.
Published: September 2015

In order to benefit from the advantages of a highly developed fovea, steadiness of gaze is mandatory. Visual fixation and gaze stability under static and dynamic conditions is achieved via several pathways: vestibulo‐ocular, optokinetic, and smooth pursuit systems. Further a proper control of saccades is necessary. A synthetic review of these systems will be provided. At the end of the session the participants should be able to understand why and how abnormal spontaneous eye movements can be generated.
Abnormal non nystagmic spontaneous eye movements
Authors: Borruat F.X.
Published: September 2015

When the saccadic system is dysfunctional, an intrusion of spontaneous unwanted saccades can disrupt visual fixation. These can present as square wave jerks, ocular flutter and opsoclonus. Voluntary nystagmus is also a sequence of abnormal saccades. At the end of the session, participants should be able to identify these specific eye movement disorders and organize proper investigations accordingly.
Radius Maumenee Syndrome
Authors: Kestelyn P.
Published: September 2015

Ocular injection and increased IOP from elevated episcleral venous pressure are most frequently caused by carotid cavernous fistula. Other causes include large vessel venous obstruction (venous sinus thrombosis and superior vena cava syndrome), Sturge–Weber syndrome, scleritis, thyroid‐related orbitopathy and orbital tumours or orbital varices (Radius & Maumenee 1978; Rhee et al. 2009). Additionally, idiopathic rise in episcleral venous pressure, known as Radius–Maumenee syndrome, can lead to ocular injection with elevated IOP (Radius & Maumenee 1978). The syndrome was originally described by Minas & Podos (1968). The diagnosis is based on the clinical findings of elevated IOP causing glaucomatous optic nerve and visual field damage in association with an open angle and dilated episcleral veins. The diagnosis of Radius–Maumenee syndrome can only be made with confidence after intra‐orbital and intracranial pathology mentioned above has been excluded by MRI.

Two case reports will illustrate the typical features of this rare cause of glaucoma.
Risk management: how does patient management in ophthalmology compare with those of other medical disciplines?
Authors: Kotecha A.
Published: September 2015

Risk management in medicine involves identifying, evaluating and monitoring actual and potential areas of risk of harm to patients. The ophthalmologist's main concern in the care of the glaucoma patient is the risk of their patient progressing to irreversible sight loss. As such, glaucoma patients receive lifelong care once diagnosed, and undergo a multitude of tests over their lifetime. This talk will explore how the care of the glaucoma patient compares with the care of patients from other disciplines and will attempt to address whether glaucoma ophthalmologists are more ‘risk averse’ in the management of their patients.
Military ophthalmia and the Napoleonic campaign in Egypt
Authors: De Laey J.J.
Published: September 2015

In 1798 the French armies landed in Egypt. During this campaign both the French and the British troops were confronted with eye infections. When they returned home the disease spread all over Europe. The Dutch army was also affected. When Belgium became independent in 1830, there were major discussions as what caused the disease. Some called “compressionist” considered it neither to be contagious nor Egyptian, but the consequence of the pressure of the leather collar on the jugulars and of the heavy shako on the forehead. For the others the “contagionists” the disease was highly contagious and spread directly from patients to healthy soldiers although there was also a possibility of “miasma”. The uniform was adapted and hygienic measures were taken. Unfortunately one decision with dramatic repercussions was sending home diseased soldiers. As a result the disease spread within the civilian population and became a major health issue.

The very first international congress of ophthalmology was held in Brussels in 1857 and one of the major topics was the “military ophthalmia”.

With strict measures the disease was eventually controlled although some regions were still affected up to the end of the 19th Century.
Neuronal complications of intravitreal SiO
Authors: Grzybowski A.
Published: September 2015

Intraocular silicone oil (SiO) complications include keratopathy, glaucoma, cataract and subretinal migration of the oil droplets, and can also lead to a severe optic neuropathy caused by retrolaminar migration. Intracranial migration of the SiO through the optic nerve posterior to the lamina cribrosa to the optic chiasm and brain is, however, uncommon. The mechanism is still under debate. Moreover, central scotoma may develop in eyes with SiO not only at the time of oil removal, but also during the period of tamponade. This review summarizes our current understanding of the specific pathogenic mechanisms of intraocular SiO neuronal side effects, concluding that pre‐existing glaucoma and optic nerve abnormalities are the main risk factors associated with this damage. In their absence, the risk of extraocular SiO penetration is so low that the use of SiO endotamponade in complex retinal detachment patients does not need to be modified. MRI images to assess extraocular SiO migration are only necessary in very few and special cases, such as patients with optic nerve abnormalities and glaucoma.
Wegener's granulomatosis – should we change the name of the disease?
Authors: Grzybowski A.
Published: September 2015

It was proposed that the eponym “Wegener's granulomatosis” should not be used any more due to the fact that Friedrich Wegener (1907–1990) was the member of the National Socialist German WorkersParty and because it was suggested that had been involved during the WWII in human experiments and genocide. Based on this accusations the American College of Rheumatology, The American Society of Nephrology and the European League Against Rheumatism decided that all medical scientists should no longer use the term Wegener's granulomatosis. However, the real value of these accusations were questioned. It was confirmed that Wegener joined Sturmabteilung (SA “brownshirts”), the German State Party NSDAP and the National Socialist German Physicians’ Federation (NSDÄB). It was also showed that the main accusations against him, namely human experiments and genocide during WWII had no foundation, and were based on speculations. The life of Wegener between 1933–1945 has been also presented in the historical perspective of situation in Germany in 30s. There are no proofs that Wegener was ever involved in genocide and human experiments during the WWII, thus the term “Wegener's granulomatosis” should be considered as still appropriate.
Ocular hypertension in adult rodents does not affect non‐RGC neurons in the ganglion cell layer but results in severe loss of cone‐photorreceptors
Authors: Vidal‐Sanz M. , Rodríguez‐Llarena S. , Ortín‐Martínez A. , Salinas‐Navarro M. , Nadal‐Nicolás F.M. , Valiente‐Soriano F.J. , Villegas‐Pérez M.P.
Published: September 2015

We investigate short and long‐term effects of laser photocoagulation (LP) of the limbal tissues‐induced ocular hypertension (OHT) in the innermost and outer layers of the retina (OLR). Adult albino rats or mice were examined 2 weeks to 6 months after LP‐induced OHT. Brn3a‐immunodetection was used to identify retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and DAPI‐staining to identify all cell nuclei in the ganglion cell layer. Retinas were cut in cross sections for morphometric analysis or prepared as wholemounts to study the entire population of RGCs or L‐ and S‐cones (immunolabeled). OHT resulted in pie‐shaped retinal areas lacking Brn3a+RGCs but with large numbers of DAPI+nuclei. Cross‐sections showed focal regions of degeneration affecting the ORL that became evident by 2 m and progressed up to 6 months after LP. Rat retinal wholemounts showed RGC diminished to 20–25% by 1 m with no further loss, whereas the L‐ or S‐cones showed progressive loss up to 6 months that amounted to 19% or 33% by 1 m, to 62% or 51% by 3 m, and to 66% or 59% by 6 m, respectively. LP‐induced OHT results in selective loss of RGCs within the ganglion cell layer, but there is progressive severe damage of the ORL up to 6 m.
Optical reduction of peripheral hyperopic defocus
Authors: Torii H. , Negishi K. , Tsubota K.
Published: September 2015

Purpose

To discuss the effectiveness of optical reduction of peripheral hyperopic defocus in preventing progression of myopia.

Methods

The relationship between reducing peripheral hyperopic defocus and slowing progression of myopia has been discussed with regard to glasses, contact lenses, and orthokeratology. Previous studies on optical reduction of peripheral hyperopic defocus mainly in Japan will be presented. We performed a prospective, randomized, double‐blind clinical trial using a questionnaire to compare myopic progression between a single‐vision lens and a lens that reduces peripheral hyperopic defocus. This study is part of a multicenter trial in Japan and the results of our institute will be presented.

Results

Many clinical trials have suggested that reducing peripheral hyperopic defocus possibly retards progression of myopia. Outdoor activity is an evidence‐based environmental factor that protects against myopia; our data also show the importance of outdoor activities for preventing progression of myopia.

Conclusion

Not only reducing peripheral hyperopic defocus but also environmental factors such as outdoor activity is important to retard myopia. A greater number of eyes should be evaluated in future studies.