bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitreous and serum Hsp 70 levels in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
Authors: Sozen‐Delil F.I. , Cekic O. , Haklar G.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Heat shock proteins (Hsp) are ubiquitous proteins that protect cells from different kinds of stress. Retinal detachment (RD) is a critical eye situation after that death of photoreceptors by apoptosis and necrosis occurs. Despite the best anatomical result following the surgery visual acuity may not improve. The objective of the present study was to detect possible correlations of Hsp 70 levels between vitreous and serum of the patients with RD.

Methods

Totally 15 eyes of 15 patients were included. The study group consisted of 11eyes with rhegmatogenous RD and the control group consisted of 4 eyes with macular hole or epiretinal membrane without RD. All eyes underwent pars plana vitrectomy. Vitreous and serum samples were obtained at the time of vitrectomy. The levels of Hsp 70 were analyzed using Enzyme linked immuno‐sorbent assay. Total vitreous proteins and total serum proteins were also measured. Mann–Whitney U and Spearman correlation tests were performed for the statistics. The significance was set to <0.05.

Results

In sum total (n = 15), higher mean vitreous Hsp 70 level (±standard deviation) were detected in eyes than that of serum (184.41 ± 154.4 pg/ml vs. 85.43 ± 27.47 pg/ml, p < 0.001). In the study group, vitreous Hsp 70 levels are higher than those of serum (209.33 ± 175.12 pg/ml vs. 83.95 ± 26.95 pg/ml, p < 0.001) as well as serum and vitreous Hsp 70 levels were not correlated (p > 0.05). In the control group, serum and vitreous Hsp 70 levels were similar (89.49 ± 32.72 pg/ml vs. 115.87 ± 22.05 pg/ml, p > 0.05), and serum and vitreous Hsp 70 levels were not correlated (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Elevated vitreous Hsp 70 levels in the eyes with rhegmatogenous RD could be due to increased endogenous synthesis to prevent stressed retina from apoptosis.

Acknowledgement

This project was supported by Marmara University, Scientific Research Projects Committee.
Normative values for optical coherence tomography parameters in children and inter‐examiner agreement of choroidal thickness measurements
Authors: Erkan Turan K. , Taylan Sekeroglu H. , Baytaroglu A. , Bezci F. , Karahan S.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To determine normative values for central macular thickness (CMT), retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFLT) and choroidal thickness (CT) in healthy children and to investigate their relationships with axial length (AL), central corneal thickness (CCT), refractive errors and intraocular pressure (IOP).

Methods

A total of 120 eyes of 120 healthy children (72 girl, 48 boys, 11.95 ± 2.26 years) underwent detailed ophthalmologic examination and optical coherence tomography (OCT) measurement (Spectralis OCT, Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany) in a cross‐sectional study setting. CT was measured by two independent examiners in 3 separate points.

Results

The mean global RNFLT was 98.75 ± 9.45 (79.0–121.0) μm. The mean CMT was 232.29 ± 29.37 (190.0–376.0) μm. The mean subfoveolar CT was 344.38 ± 68.83 (148.0–572.0) μm measured by examiner 1 and 344.04 ± 68.92 (141.0–573.0) μm measured by examiner 2. Inter‐examiner agreement was % 99.6–99.8 for CT in 3 separate points. The mean AL was 23.72 ± 0.73 (22.14–25.56) mm. The mean IOP was 13.70 ± 1.63 (11–19) mmHg. The mean spherical equivalent was −0.26 ± 0.73 (−2.25 to +1.50) diopters. The mean CCT was 555.95 ± 26.59 (498–614) μm. CMT was found to increase with AL (r = 0.245, p = 0.007). CT was demonstrated to increase with age (r = 0.291, p = 0.001) and decrease with AL (r = −0.191, p = 0.037). Global RNFLT was found to decrease with AL (r = −0.247, p = 0.007) and increase with CCT (r = 0.208, p = 0.022). Global RNFLT was positively correlated with CT (r = 0.354, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

OCT parameters seem to show a wide range of variability in children. RNFLT, CMT and CT are either interrelated or correlated to age, CCT and AL. Furthermore, CT manual measurements with enhanced depth imaging OCT showed very high inter‐examiner agreement. It should be borne in mind that normative values are unique in children when considering OCT results.
The role for the Xen gel stent implant in glaucoma treatment
Authors: Stalmans I.
Published: September 2016

Trabeculectomy is till the gold standard in glaucoma surgery because it is an effective technique to lower intra‐ocular pressure. However, this surgical technique is associated with a risk of vision‐threatening complications. Therefore, great efforts have been made in the past decade to develop a safer alternative. A plethora of surgical implants have been developed, targeting Schlemms canal, the suprachoroisal or the subconjunctival space.

The XEN gel implant is a collagen‐derived device which is implanted ab‐interno using an inserter with a hollow needle. This is the only minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) which targets the subconjunctival space, thus creating a filtering bleb. During this lecture, the techology, implantation technique and practical tips and tricks for per‐ and postoperative management will be discusssed. Moreover, the one‐year efficacy and safety results of an ongoing phase IV trial (the APEX study) will be presented.
Intraarterial and intravitreal chemotherapy in the combined treatment in children with group C and D intraocular retinoblastoma
Authors: Saakyan S.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To evaluate the outcomes of Rb with group «C» and «D» after the combined treatment.

Methods

45 patients, 22 (49%) male and 23(51%) female were included in study, age ranging from 1 to 42 months (median −13.5 ± 10.4 months). Children with age under 1 year – 62%. All 45 children received systemic chemotherapy VEC from 3 to 6 courses (median – 5 courses). 4 children were undergone primary enucleation (group E). For the treatment of the eyes groups C and D Rb (n = 49) local chemotherapy was added SIAC and/or IVCT on the average after the third course of VEC. Focal therapy was used if need to consolidate treatment (TTT and/or brachytherapy). IVCT was used in 32 patients for 34 eyes with vitreous disease with median number of courses 2 (1–6). SIAC was used in 41 patients for 45 eyes with retinal or subretinal disease with or without vitreous seeding with median number of courses 2 (1–3).

Results

In 27 of 49 eyes after systemic chemotherapy the significant resorbtion of the tumor foci were revealed using chemotherapy, the other 22 eyes underwent additional treatment – in group C (TTT‐4 eyes, brachytherapy – 5 eyes) and in group D (TTT – 6 eyes, brachytherapy ‐6eyes). The patients with Rb of groups «C» and «D» had disease free survival (DFS) of 56.1 ± 8.9% with a median period of follow‐up 26.9 ± 2.5 months. 44 of 45 patients with Rb of groups «C» and «D» are alive with no metastatic disease (median follow up of 20 months (range 3–43 months)). One of 45 patients died due to second malignant tumor – acute leukemia.14 of 15 eyes (93.3%) with group «C» and 31 of 34 eyes (91.2%) with group «D» were preserved by combined chemotherapy and focal therapy.

Conclusions

Combined chemotherapy (VEC + SIAC + IVCT) with focal therapy allowed saving the eyes that enucleated earlier.
Eleven year review of risk factors and visual outcomes of patients with posterior capsule rupture (PCR) as a complication of cataract surgery at a district general hospital
Authors: Begum S. , Penwarden A. , Saunders D. , Balendra S.I. , Schulz C. , Hunter M.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To report risk factors and visual outcomes of cataract surgery complicated by posterior capsule rupture (PCR) at Portsmouth Hospital over an 11 year period (2004–2015)

Methods

A search of all cataract surgery complicated by PCR was performed on our Electronic Patient Record (EPR). Clinical data was extracted from the EPR, patient case notes and clinical letters. Only patients with a minimum of 3 months VA recorded were included.

Results

In total 366 patients were identified. The mean number of cataract operations performed per year was 3,832 giving an overall PCR rate of 0.98%. Of the cases affected the average age was 74 years and 56% were female. The most common risk factors were dense cataract (15%), high myopia (8%) and previous vitrectomy (6%). Thirty five percent of PCR cases occurred during a trainee surgical list. Initial mean best corrected VA in all patients was 0.68, 0.62 at 3 months and 0.46 at 1 year. The mean length of follow up was 35 months and the mean VA was 0.36 at the final visit.

Conclusions

PCR rate at Portsmouth is almost half the national rate. We found in our cohort of patients, previous vitrectomy was a common risk factor which was not reflected in the Royal College of Ophthalmologists’ National Database. Over a third of PCR occurred during trainee lists, emphasising the need for risk stratification preoperatively to identify difficult cases.
Intravitreal bevacizumab as an adjuvant treatment of choroidal metastasis
Authors: Costa J. , Braga J. , Neves F. , Meira D. , Ribeiro L.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Metastatic tumours are the most common intraocular malignancy. Although rare, lung and breast cancers are two of the predominant tumours to metastasize to the eye. The choroid, an highly vascularised structure, is the intraocular site most commonly affected. Recent case reports point intravitreal bevacizumab as an option in the treatment of these tumours. The authors present a case of choroidal metastasis secondary to breast carcinoma treated with intravitreal bevacizumab.

Methods

A patient with choroidal metastasis was treated with intravitreal bevacizumab. Clinical and tumour response was observed and documented for a period of 24 months.

Results

A 55‐year‐old female patient, with an history of localized breast carcinoma treated nine years previously, presented with decreased visual acuity in the right eye. She had a best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of counting fingers at 10 centimetres. Examination revealed a choroidal metastatis in the temporal region of the posterior pole as well as serous macular detachment. The off‐label treatment with intravitreal bevacizumab was proposed and the patient underwent three consecutive (one month interval) intravitreal injections, as an adjuvant to the chemotherapy with paclitaxel. With just one IVB, the patient reported an improvement of her visual acuity and one month after the third IVB she had a BCVA of 6/10. At this time, significant tumour and subretinal fluid regression was confirmed by fundus examination and optical coherence tomography. Until the present time (two years follow‐up). the patient remained clinically stable with no need of further IVB. There were no ocular or systemic complications with the treatment instituted.

Conclusions

The combination of intravitreal bevacizumab and systemic chemotherapy seems to be effective and safe for management of choroidal metastasis from breast carcinoma.
Clinical and morphometric investigation of retinopathy in children with retinoblastoma treated with chemotherapy
Authors: Saakyan S.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To analyze the results of clinical and morphometric investigation of retina in children with retinoblastoma treated with systemic and local chemotherapy in comparison with children with primary untreated tumor.

Methods

55 children (87 eyes) with retinoblastoma treated with systemic chemotherapy, intra‐arterial, intravitreal chemotherapy and 19 patients (38 eyes) with primary tumors before treatment were examined. All patients were examined by ophthalmoscopy using Ret Cam and spectral optical coherence tomography.

Results

After systemic chemotherapy fundus examination revealed retinal edema, retinal artery narrowing, focal and/or diffuse choroidal blanching, pigmented foci of small and medium sizes. On tomograms – hyperreflective loop luminal narrowing, a significant decrease in the caliber of retinal blood vessels as compared to the norm of 16 ± 4.1 μm; waviness photoreceptor layer and its destruction. In macula – 42.6% on tomograms – maculopathy, manifested disorganization RPE, cystoid edema, smoothness papillomacular beam forming beak shaped fovea and retinal thickening. In patients treated with primary systemic and intra‐arterial chemotherapy diagnosed increase in retinal vascular caliber up to 116 ± 8.1 μm. The clinical picture after systemic chemotherapy and intavitreal chemotherapy in 14 eyes characterized by atrophy with the formation of small whitish and pigmented lesions. On tomogramms‐ unevenness and destruction of the inner layers of the retina and epiretinal membranes little‐pointedhyperreflective tricks in the inner layers of the retina.

Conclusions

The results of clinical and morphometric studies of the inner shells eyes, arising under the influence of chemotherapeutic agents are of interest in terms of predicting the visual functions of the child after the complete destruction of the tumor.
Effects of TRPM8 and TRPV1 agonists on the neural activity of corneal cold thermoreceptors in tear‐deficient guinea pigs
Authors: Quirce S. , Luna C. , Acosta M.C. , Kovacs I. , Belmonte C. , Gallar J.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To characterize the effects of menthol and capsaicin on the activity of corneal cold thermoreceptors in tear‐deficient guinea pigs

Methods

The main lachrymal gland was surgically removed in anesthetized animals. Four weeks later, cold‐sensitive nerve terminal impulse (NTI) activity was recorded from the superfused cornea. The spontaneous and stimulus‐evoked NTI activity was analysed. For thermal stimulation, temperature of perfusion solution was changed from 34°C (basal) down to 20°C (cooling ramp) or up to 50°C (heating ramp). TRP agonists (50–200 μM menthol, 1–10 μM capsaicin) were also added to the perfusion solution. The characteristics of the spontaneous and stimulus‐evoked NTI activity recorded in tear‐deficient and intact corneas before and during perfusion with TRP channel agonists were compared.

Results

Removal of the lachrymal gland caused sustained reduction of basal and reflex tearing. NTI activity was significantly higher in cold thermoreceptors from tear‐deficient corneas compared with naïve corneas. Response to cooling ramps was also increased. Menthol increased ongoing and stimulus‐evoked activity of all cold thermoreceptors in both intact and tear deficient corneas. Menthol at high concentrations first excited and then inactivated cold thermoreceptors. Only 10% of thermoreceptors were activated by capsaicin.

Conclusions

Chronic tear deficiency alters the activity of corneal sensory nerve fibers, leading to the development of increased spontaneous activity and abnormal responsiveness to natural stimulation. These changes are particularly prominent in cold thermoreceptor fibers, whose injury‐evoked neuropathic firing seems to be due to altered expression of Na+ and K+ channels involved in impulse generation without changes in the activity of TRP channels involved in sensory transduction.
Topical cyclosporine‐A in Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis, when how and how long
Authors: Bremond‐Gignac D.
Published: September 2016

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a severe ocular allergic disease occurring in children and adolescents. This chronic, allergic and inflammatory severe condition in children may result in visual impairment. Two forms of VKC may be observed, tarsal form and limbal form. Symptoms as itching, tearing, Topical antihistamine and mast cells stabilizers, as classical treatment, are regularly ineffective and topical steroids are required. However, steroids may be iatrogenic in this chronic condition. The anti‐inflammatory effect of a topical cyclosporine allows topical steroids sparing. Different forms of ciclosporin will be detailed as oily preparation or cationic emulsion. Adjustment of the dosage and duration is essential to match the form. Risks of visual impairment justify to integrate topical cyclosporine treatment. Practical aspects of the treatment may provide better quality of life for children and parents.
Dry eye syndrome following proton therapy of ocular melanomas
Authors: Maschi C. , Sara L. , Peyrichon M.L. , Baillif S. , Herault J. , Thariat J. , Caujolle J.P.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Some institutions contra‐indicate proton therapy (PT) for ocular melanomas of temporal superior location (TS) owing to lacrimal gland irradiation and the risk of dry eye syndrome (DES) and advocate brachytherapy. We investigated whether PT can be safely performed in TS melanomas.

Methods

Location, DES grade and dose to the lacrimal gland estimated from Eyeplan blindly by two operators were correlated in consecutive patients treated from 1999 to 2014 with 52 Gy

Results

Of 1473 patients, 13.6% had DES, including 5.4% with severe DES (sDES). Temporal superior and temporal melanoma patients had a higher risk of DES than patients with melanomas in other quadrants (p < 0.001). Severe DES was noted in 18.6% of TS melanoma patients (versus 5.4% in patients with melanomas in all other quadrants) and 12.3% of temporal melanoma patients (versus 3.0%) (p < 0.001). sDES was more frequent in ciliary versus choroid melanomas, advanced versus early stage (p < 0.001), and higher percentages of eye surface, lens periphery or ciliary body (p < 0.001), cornea irradiated at any dose level (p = 0.002). sDES was associated with more eyelid dermatitis or alopecia (p < 0.001), and glaucoma/rubeosis (p = 0.002). Vision changes were similar in patients with TS melanoma or other locations, including for patients experiencing severe DES (+1.15 vs. +1.14 logMAR). No patient underwent enucleation for complications of DES.

Conclusions

DES and sDES were more frequent in TS melanomas incriminating the lacrimal gland but temporal melanomas experienced more DES. In addition to correlation sDES and lens, cornea and lid irradiation, this suggests involvement of such structures as the limbus cells, conjunctival glands and long ciliary nerves. Rates of sDES compared favorably with the literature and DES was manageable. Tumor location should not contraindicate PT.
Neuro‐ophthalmological manifestations of Behcet's disease
Authors: Alghamdi A. , Bodaghi B. , Wechsler B. , Cacoub P. , LeHoang P. , Saadoun D. , Touitou V.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Behcet's disease (BD) is an inflammatory disease characterized by recurrent oral aphthous ulcers (major criteria), genital ulcers, uveitis and skin manifestations (minor criteria). Neuro‐ophthalmological manifestations (NOM) are rare. The aim of our study is to report the spectrum of NOM of BD, and evaluate their prognosis.

Methods

Medical records of patients with neuro‐Behcet, seen in a single tertiary center between 1987 and 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with NOM were included in the study. The diagnosis of neuro‐behcet disease was based on neuro‐imaging and lumbar puncture. All patients were evaluated both in the internal medicine and ophthalmology departments.

Results

Out of the 217 patients diagnosed with neuro‐BD, 29 presented with NOM. The M/F ratio was 1.2. Mean age at diagnosis was 25.3 years. Clinical NOM included papillitis (27.5%), papilledema (51.7%), retrobulbar optic neuritis (10.3%), optic disc atrophy (31%) and cranial nerve palsy (27.5%). All patients were treated with corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs were required in 23 patients. Initially, 79% of patients had a decreased visual acuity, and 79% had visual field defects. After treatment, vision improved or stabilized in 66.7% and worsened in 33.3%. The mean ± SD LogMAR visual acuity improved from 0.4 ± 0.3 at diagnosis to 0.2 ± 0.3 after therapy. 10.3 and 3.4% patients were respectively legally blind at diagnosis and at the end of follow‐up.

Conclusions

Although NOM of BD are rare, they are potentially severe and disabling. Recognition of NOM is crucial for establishing an early diagnosis. Prompt treatment is the main prognostic factor for the visual outcome for these patients.
Optical coherence tomography findings of retinal folds in nanophthalmos
Authors: Atilla H.
Published: September 2016

Nanophthalmos is a rare form of congenital microphthalmos and it can be seen in siblings due to genetic transmission. The eye is small in overall dimensions including short axial length (16–18.5 mm) with shallow anterior chamber and almost normal lens size. Typically high hyperopia is seen. Posterior findings include; cupless and crowded optic disc, and elevated papillomacular retinal folds. Optic Coherence Tomography (OCT) can reveal retinal fold with normal retinal pigment epithelium and choriocapillaris. It is presumed that the retinal folds in nanophthalmos result from a redundancy of the retinal layer caused by retarded growth of the scleral, choroidal, and retinal pigment epithelial layers and OCT can demonstrate papillomacular retinal folds that are confined to the neurosensory retina.
Early childhood blindness – etiologies and comorbidity
Authors: Löfgren S. , de Verdier K. , Ek U. , Fernell E.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To identify etiologies and developmental comorbidity in children with congenital or very early blindness.

Methods

Children with congenital or early blindness in Sweden during a 20 year period were identified through registers. Major causes for the blindness and developmental disturbance were collected from patient records.

Results

Four causes of blindness amounted to 65% of all etiologies: retinopathy of prematurity, optic nerve hypoplasia, Leber congenital amaurosis, and optic nerve atrophy, in falling order of frequency. Nearly three out of four children had at least one additional impairment besides blindness; the most common being intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder. More than half of the population had more than one additional impairment.

Conclusions

Blindness in itself entails considerable implications for a child's development and learning. When blindness is combined with other developmental disorders, there is a significant need for support and adaptation. It is important to understand the developmental effects of both the blindness and other coexisting disabilities in order to correctly interpret the behavior and needs of the children.
New challenges in retinoblastoma treatment
Authors: Desjardins L. , Angi M. , Levy C. , Lumbroso Le Rouic L. , Aerts I. , Freneaux P. , Brisse H. , Cassoux N.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Retinoblastoma treatment has changed during the past ten years with the introduction of intraarterial and intravitreal chemotherapy. There is a trend to more conservative management and the challenge is to decide when to enucleate.

Methods

We have made a retrospective study of patients treated in 2013 and 2014.Unilateral retinoblastoma were treated by intraarterial melphalan and local treatments in selected cases and enucleation for advanced group D and for all group E eyes For bilateral retinoblastoma, conservative management was proposed with intravenous chemotherapy and local treatments Follow up every month under general anesthesia during the first year with treatment of small recurrences by laser or cryotherapy was performed

Results

There were 40 bilateral retinoblastoma and 4 of them were metachronous.19 patients received 6 courses of 3 drugs and 21 received two courses of VP16 and carboplatin followed by carboplatin. All the children had local ophthalmological treatments started at the third cycle. 21 children kept both eyes and 19 kept one eye. There were 72 unilateral retinoblastoma .43 (60%) were treated with primary enucleation and 29 (40%) were treated by conservative management. 21 of these eyes were saved and 8 were secondary enucleated. No patient developed orbital recurrence, optic nerve involvement or metastasis.

Conclusions

The increase of conservative management in retinoblastoma is safe with proper selection of eyes and close follows up.
RESVEGA in exudative age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Kubicz A.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The aim of this clinical case is to present the improvement of retinal structure and stabilisation of visual acuity using RESVEGA (trans‐resveratrol and omega‐3 fatty acids i.a.) in a patient with exudative AMD.

Methods

A 84‐year‐old female patient with pseudophakia and history of dry AMD in both eyes and atrophic changes in the left eye presented in mid‐January 2015 with deterioration of vision in the right eye. VOD: 0.1, no improvement with correction; VOS: counts fingers from 1.5 m. In the OCT: subretinal fluid, suspected CNV in the right eye, atrophic changes in the left eye. Recommended: fluorescein angiography, qualification for intravitreal anti‐VEGF injection into RE and supplementation with RESVEGA (2 tablets daily at once). FFA – increasing hyperfluorescence in the RE macula, leakage from CNV and changes of atrophic character in the course of AMD. February 2015 (qualification for intravitreal anti‐VEGF injection): RE: significant improvement in OCT, decreased fluid space under the sensory retina. VOD, VOS as previously. Injections were abandoned; recommended: continued supplementation with RESVEGA, frequent ophthalmic examinations. Mid‐March 2015: in the OCT no fluid spaces. VOD, VOS as previously. Recommended: observation and continued supplementation as so far. September 2015: in the OCT – no fluid spaces. VOD, VOS as previously.

Results

Owing to the use of RESVEGA, regression of the subretinal fluid was obtained. It was possible not to introduce the intravitreal anti‐VEGF injection. The oral therapy ensured maintaining stable ophthalmological status and visual acuity on the same level within 9 months of observation.

Conclusions

RESVEGA supplementation allowed to maintain stable condition of patient's eyes, without anti‐VEGF injection.
Cacicol® – neurotrophic keratopathy in systematic review
Authors: Mrukwa Kominek E. , Rokicki D.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The objective of this study was to review the cases of neurotrophic keratopathy with use of the new regenerating agent (RGTA) therapy Cacicol®.

Methods

An analysis was based on documents retrieved from the systematic research on published materials. Bibliometric analysis were performed using own design database. Research has been concentrated on publications, conference abstracts and posters presenting case reports with detailed medical history. Neurotrophic keratopathy patients have been grouped according to diagnosis based on the best assessment of the data presented in the collected materials. In all groups posology, duration of treatment, healing level and tolerance have been assessed by descriptive methods.

Results

58 publications have been consecutively retrieved and reviewed from which 37 have been qualified for further review. In this materials 102 patients with 105 eyes have been selected as detailed data of Cacicol® use, performance and tolerance could be identified. The total number of eyes have been divided into 4 groups: postinfectious (n = 33), postoperative (n = 25), neurological (n = 36), chemical burns (n = 11). Analysis revealed that in all groups more than 72% of patients achieved corneal healing/partial healing after average treatment of 4 weeks (from 4 days to 22 weeks). Only 6% of cases did not heal and <2% presented unexpected effect. In the most cases posology covered 1 drop every 2 or 3 days. The recurrence rate of the neurotrophic ulcers after the complete healing was reported up to 20% within 6 months.

Conclusions

Cacicol® might be considered as an alternative approach in the neurotrophic keratopathy management. However randomised clinical trial in patients in this indication is necessary to confirm the promising effect of Cacicol® in the neurotrophic keratopathy management.
Ambient exposure of the ocular tissues to optical radiation
Authors: Soderberg P. , Yu Z. , Talebizadeh N. , Malmqist L. , Sandberg Melin C. , Galichanin K.
Published: September 2016

Optical radiation is usually considered as radiation between 1 nm and 1 mm. The visible part of optical radiation typically extends from 400 and 760 nm. Optical radiation with wavelengths shorter than visible is referred to as ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and optical radiation with wavelengths longer than visible as infrared radiation (IRR). The most abundant source of optical radiation on the earth is daylight sun. The spectral emission of the sun is determined by the sun temperature, 5,778 K and the atmospheric attenuation. In environments with high backhground reflection of UVR the UVR from the sun at the surface of the earth may cause photochemical damage to the human eye. Humans have continuously increased the light load on the visual system by inventions like the fire, the incandescent‐ and the halogen‐ lamp, fluorescent tubes and recently the LED lamp. The primary emission from halogen lamps and fluorescent tubes contains enough UVR to cause photochemical damage to the eye if not fitted with suitable filters. Even when fitted with UVR blocking filters these sources increase the load of blue light on the retina that potentially causes photochemical damage. LED lamps used for illumination typically are blue emitting diodes with fluorescent coating that provides a white light sensation to the visual system. The spectral output typically has a strong peak in the blue balanced by a broad peak in red. The blue light potentially causes photochemical damage in the retina. The deviation of the spectral distribution of the LED lamp from that of the sun challenges the color perception of the visual system in the aging eye and after cataract surgery with blue blocking IOLs due to increased selective blue light absorption. Increasing use of IRR LEDs for remote sensing and control is a potential hazard to the anterior segment of the eye.
Estimation of genetic (co)variances of Gompertz growth function parameters in pigs
Authors: Coyne J.M. , Matilainen K. , Berry D.P. , Sevon‐Aimonen M.– L. , Mäntysaari E.A. , Juga J. , Serenius T. , McHugh N.
Published: September 2016

The objective of this study was to estimate genetic (co)variances for the Gompertz growth function parameters, asymptotic mature weight (A), the ratio of mature weight to birthweight (B) and rate of maturation (k), using alternative modelling approaches. The data set consisted of 51 893 live weight records from 10 201 growing pigs. The growth of each pig was modelled using the Gompertz model employing either a two‐step fixed effect or mixed model approach or a one‐step mixed model approach using restricted maximum likelihood for the estimation of genetic (co)variance. Heritability estimates for the Gompertz growth function parameters, A (0.40), B (0.69) and k (0.45), were greatest for the one‐step approach, compared with the two‐step fixed effects approach, A (0.10), B (0.33) and k (0.13), and the two‐step mixed model approach, A (0.17), B (0.32) and k (0.18). Inferred genetic correlations (i.e. correlations of estimated breeding values) between growth function parameters within models ranged from −0.78 to 0.76, and across models ranged from 0.28 to 0.73 for parameter A, 0.75 to 0.88 for parameter B and 0.09 to 0.37 for parameter k. Correlations between predicted daily sire live weights based on the Gompertz growth curve parameters’ estimated breeding values from 60 to 200 days of age between all three modelled approaches were moderately to strongly correlated (0.75 to 0.95). Results from this study provide heritability estimates for biologically interpretable parameters of pig growth through the quantification of genetic (co)variances, thereby facilitating the estimation of breeding values for inclusion in breeding objectives to aid in breeding and selection decisions.
A Popular myth – low‐histamine diet improves chronic spontaneous urticaria – fact or fiction?
Authors: Wagner N. , Dirk D. , Peveling‐Oberhag A. , Reese I. , Rady‐Pizarro U. , Mitzel H. , Staubach P.
Published: September 2016

Background

Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CsU) is a frequent dermatological disease that might last for months or years with high impact on quality of life. Known causes are autoreactive phenomena, infections or intolerances, rarely IgE‐mediated allergies. One‐third of CsU patients benefit from a low‐pseudoallergen diet. Additionally, it is often discussed, that reducing histamine ingestion alone might improve clinical symptoms and quality of life in CsU patients despite the uncertain role of the histamine‐degrading enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO).

Objective

Aim of this study was to investigate the impact of low‐histamine diet on symptoms and quality of life in patients with CsU.

Methods

Patients suffering from CsU accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms were included in the study. They underwent low‐histamine diet for at least 3 weeks. During the whole study, urticaria activity score (UAS) was recorded daily in a patient′s diary. Quality of life was assessed during screening, baseline and post diet visits by completing questionnaires (DLQI and Cu‐Q(2)oL). DAO activity was measured before and after elimination diet.

Results

A total of 75% of the patients had a benefit from the low‐histamine diet. Thirty‐four of 56 patients (61%) reached the primary endpoint of the study, an improvement of UAS 4 of ≥3. Overall, a significant reduction from 9.05 to 4.23 points (P = 0.004) was achieved; the average reduction in a strongly affected subgroup was 8.59 points (P < 0.001). DAO activity remained stable.

Conclusion

Low‐histamine diet is a therapeutically useful, simple and cost‐free tool to decrease symptoms and increase quality of life in CsU patients with gastrointestinal involvement. Further research is needed to understand the role of diamine oxidase.
Ecological Traits of the Algae‐BearingTetrahymena utriculariae(Ciliophora) from Traps of the Aquatic Carnivorous PlantUtricularia reflexa
Authors: Šimek Karel , Pitsch Gianna , Salcher Michaela M. , Sirová Dagmara , Shabarova Tanja , Adamec Lubomír , Posch Thomas
Published: September 2016

Trap fluid of aquatic carnivorous plants of the genusUtriculariahosts specific microbiomes consisting of commensal pro‐ and eukaryotes of largely unknown ecology. We examined the characteristics and dynamics of bacteria and the three dominant eukaryotes, i.e. the algae‐bearing ciliateTetrahymena utriculariae(Ciliophora), a green flagellateEuglena agilis(Euglenophyta), and the algaScenedesmus alternans(Chlorophyta), associated with the traps ofUtricularia reflexa. Our study focused on ecological traits and life strategies of the highly abundant ciliate whose biomass by far exceeds that of other eukaryotes and bacteria independent of the trap age. The ciliate was the only bacterivore in the traps, driving rapid turnover of bacterial standing stock. However, given the large size of the ciliate and the cell‐specific uptake rates of bacteria we estimated that bacterivory alone would likely be insufficient to support its apparent rapid growth in traps. We suggest that mixotrophy based on algal symbionts contributes significantly to the diet and survival strategy of the ciliate in the extreme (anaerobic, lowpH) trap‐fluid environment. We propose a revised concept of major microbial interactions in the trap fluid where ciliate bacterivory plays a central role in regeneration of nutrients bound in rapidly growing bacterial biomass.
Like Father Like Son: How Does Parents' Financial Behavior Affect Their Children's Financial Behavior?
Authors: Tang Ning
Published: September 2016

This paper investigates the intergenerational influence on financial behavior. Using two national longitudinal studies: the 1979 National Longitudinal Survey Children and Young Adults (NLSCYA) and the 1979 National Longitudinal Survey (NLSY79), we link the financial behavior of 2,520 young adults back to their general self‐control skill and their parents' financial behavior conducted during children's adolescence. We find evidence of intergenerational consistency in financial behavior between parents and their children. Results from the generalized structural equation model indicate that parents' financial behavior affects that of their children both directly and indirectly through general self‐control skill development. Furthermore, the influence of parents is moderated by parent–child relationship. These findings highlight the importance of parental financial socialization. Its implications are discussed.
Using mixed‐methods research to study the quality of life of coeliac women
Authors: Rodríguez Almagro Julián , Hernández Martínez Antonio , Solano Ruiz María Carmen , Siles González José
Published: September 2016

Aims and objectives

To research the quality of life of Spanish women with coeliac disease.

Background

Women with coeliac disease express lower quality of life than men with coeliac disease.

Design

Explanatory sequential approach using mixed methods and with a gender perspective.

Methods

The research was carried out between May and July 2015. In its quantitative stage, it aimed to determine the health‐related quality of life in a representative sample (n = 1097) of Spanish adult women with coeliac disease using a specific questionnaire named Coeliac Disease‐Quality of Life. In its qualitative phase, it aimed to describe the life experiences of a woman with coeliac disease in a qualitative manner by means of interviews (n = 19) with a semistructured script. Quantitative data were analysed using spss version 20 and presented in descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were analysed using the directed content analysis.

Results

The quantitative process gave us the values on the four aspects studied: dysphoria, disease limitations, health problems and inadequate treatment. These aspects allowed us to create a qualitative process, based on which we generated an interview, from which four larger categories emerged. These categories were feelings at diagnosis, limitations in day‐to‐day life, social perceptions of the disease and personal meanings of coeliac disease. Thus, both phases of our project are totally connected. There was a high level of congruence between quantitative scores and narratives.

Conclusion

This study shows us the strong points of mixed‐methods strategy in health sciences. The mixed‐methods strategy gave us a wider view of the experience of women living with coeliac disease. In our case, a strength and not a limitation is having performed the quality of life study in women with coeliac disease using a mixed methodology, approaching the experience of being a woman with coeliac disease in Spain in two different but complementary ways. The quantitative and qualitative data allowed us to interpret the experiences of our participants.
Interventional Closure of Secundum Type Atrial Septal Defects in Infants Less Than 10 Kilograms: Indications and Procedural Outcome
Authors: Wyss Yves , Quandt Daniel , Weber Roland , Stiasny Brian , Weber Benedikt , Knirsch Walter , Kretschmar Oliver
Published: September 2016

Aims

This study set out to assess indications, feasibility, complications, and clinical outcome of percutaneous transcatheter device closure of atrial septal defects (ASDs) in infants with a bodyweight below 10 kg.

Methods and Results

Retrospective single center chart and echocardiography review study from 8/2005–12/2013. Twenty‐eight children with ASD (13 female) with a median age of 1.15 years (0.2–2.8) and a median weight of 7.2 kg (4.5–9.9) were analyzed. Indications for early ASD closure were failure to thrive (n = 15, 54%), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) with supplemental oxygen dependency (n = 7, 25%), and genetic syndromes with suspected pulmonary hypertension (n = 12, 43%). Device implantation was successful in all patients without any periprocedural mortality or major complication. Clinical outcome after a median follow‐up period of 2.1 years (0.25–7.3) revealed no residual shunt and a significant decrease of right ventricular volume load. Patients with pulmonary hypertension experienced a significant reduction of pulmonary artery/RV pressure. Patients also showed decreased supplemental oxygen dependency and less cardiac medications, but no significant “catch‐up growth” in those with failure to thrive.

Conclusion

Interventional ASD closure in children weighing less than 10 kg can be performed without any additional major risks and shows a favorable outcome, especially in selected patients with significant non cardiac co‐morbidities.
Performance of the XLIMUS Sirolimus‐Eluting Coronary Stent in Very Complex Lesions
Authors: Briguori Carlo , Visconti Gabriella , Donahue Michael , Di Palma Vito , De Micco Francesca , Signoriello Giuseppe , Focaccio Amelia
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Stent delivery failure may occur especially when treating complex coronary artery stenosis. XLIMUS (CARDIONOVUM GmbH, Bonn, Germany) is a new sirolimus‐eluting stent (SES) with the following features: 1) cobalt chromium stent platform, with low (73 μm) strut thickness, (2) biodegradable polymer, and 3) potent antiproliferative drug (Sirolimus). Preliminary data suggest that XLIMUS SES may be ideal for the treatment of complex lesions.

Methods

In this registry, we assessed the deliverability, safety, and efficacy of percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) using the XLIMUS SES in patients undergoing elective PCI in native coronary vessels for complex de novo lesions, including severe calcification, severe tortuosity, and chronic total occlusion. The primary objective of the study is the delivery success of the XLIMUS SES. The secondary objective is the 1‐year rate of major adverse cardiac events (MACE; including all‐cause death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and repeat revascularization).

Results

A total of 200 consecutive patients with 255 lesions were included. Delivery success was obtained in 196 (98%) patients and in 251 (98.4%) lesions. The XLIMUS SES was successfully implanted on the first attempt with a single guidewire in 176 (88%) patients and in 208 (81.6%) lesions. Additional techniques to facilitate stent delivery (i.e., buddy wire, anchoring‐balloon, or GuideLiner catheter) were necessary in 47 (18.4%) lesions. Failure in XLIMUS SES implantation occurred in 4 (1.6%) lesions. MACE rate at 1 year was 9%.

Conclusions

This registry supports the positive performance of the XLIMUS SES in the treatment of complex coronary artery lesions.
STRATIGRAPHY AND PETROLEUM SYSTEMS OF THE PALAEOZOIC (PRE‐KHUFF) SUCCESSION, QATAR
Authors: Al‐Saad H. , Sadooni F.N.
Published: September 2016

A thickness of more than 1500m of Palaeozoic (pre‐Khuff) siliciclastic strata were encountered in three deep wells (Matbakh A, and Dukhan A and B) drilled in the State of Qatar. These sedimentary rocks have no formal entries in the Qatari Geologic Lexicon and were not included in sequence stratigraphic schemes of the Arabian Plate region. The rocks are investigated here using cores, well logs and other materials. The pre‐Khuff succession has been divided from the base up into the Qasim, Qusaiba, Sharawra, Tawil and Unayzah Formations based on age, stratigraphic status, lithology, sedimentary structures and correlation with the Saudi stratigraphic nomenclature. The succession is divided into a series of third‐order sequences based on the identification of the principal maximum flooding surfaces. Deposition is interpreted to have occurred in a wide range of environments ranging from fluvial to shallow‐marine but with the absence of the glacial facies which are prevalent in the equivalent Saudi section. Core and log analyses indicate that the Qusaiba Formation represents an important source rock which became mature for hydrocarbon generation during the Late Permian; it generated oil until the Late Jurassic and then began to expel gas and condensates, continuing until the present day. Both the Qasim and Sharawra Formations may include potential reservoir rocks which merit further study. The new nomenclature reported here will assist with the understanding of the Palaeozoic palaeogeography across the Arabian Peninsula and will help to delineate reservoir rocks in the Qatari Palaeozoic succession.
The effect of health and dental insurance on US children's dental care utilization for urgent and non‐urgent dental problems ‐ 2008
Authors: Naavaal Shillpa , Barker Laurie K. , Griffin Susan O.
Published: September 2016

Objective

We examined the association between utilization of care for a dental problem (utilization‐DP) and parent‐reported dental problem (DP) urgency among children with DP by type of health care insurance coverage.

Methods

We used weighted 2008 National Health Interview Survey data from 2,834 children, aged 2–17 years with at least one DP within the 6 months preceding survey. Explanatory variables were selected based on Andersen's model of healthcare utilization. Need was considered urgent if DP included toothache, bleeding gums, broken or missing teeth, broken or missing filling, or decayed teeth and otherwise as non‐urgent. The primary enabling variable, insurance, had four categories: none, private health no dental coverage (PHND), private health and dental (PHD), or Medicaid/State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). Predisposing variables included sociodemographic characteristics. We used bivariate and multivariate analyses to identify explanatory variables’ association with utilization‐DP. Using logistic regression, we obtained adjusted estimates of utilization‐DP by urgency for each insurance category.

Results

In bivariate analyses, utilization‐DP was associated with both insurance and urgency. In multivariate analyses, the difference in percent utilizing care for an urgent versus non‐urgent DP among children covered by Medicaid/SCHIP was 32 percentage points; PHD, 25 percentage points; PHND, 12 percentage points; and no insurance, 14 percentage points. The difference in utilization by DP urgency was higher for children with Medicaid/SCHIP compared with either PHND or uninsured children.

Conclusion

Expansion of Medicaid/SCHIP may permit children to receive care for urgent DPs who otherwise may not, due to lack of dental insurance.
Identification, transcriptional and functional analysis of heat‐shock protein 90s in banana (Musa acuminata L.) highlight their novel role in melatonin‐mediated plant response to Fusarium wilt
Authors: Wei Yunxie , Hu Wei , Wang Qiannan , Zeng Hongqiu , Li Xiaolin , Yan Yu , Reiter Russel J. , He Chaozu , Shi Haitao
Published: September 2016

As one popular fresh fruit, banana (Musa acuminata) is cultivated in the world's subtropical and tropical areas. In recent years, pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc) has been widely and rapidly spread to banana cultivated areas, causing substantial yield loss. However, the molecular mechanism of banana response to Foc remains unclear, and functional identification of disease‐related genes is also very limited. In this study, nine 90 kDa heat‐shock proteins (HSP90s) were genomewide identified. Moreover, the expression profile of them in different organs, developmental stages, and in response to abiotic and fungal pathogen Foc were systematically analyzed. Notably, we found that the transcripts of 9 MaHSP90s were commonly regulated by melatonin (N‐acetyl‐5‐methoxytryptamine) and Foc infection. Further studies showed that exogenous application of melatonin improved banana resistance to Fusarium wilt, but the effect was lost when cotreated with HSP90 inhibitor (geldanamycin, GDA). Moreover, melatonin and GDA had opposite effect on auxin level in response to Foc4, while melatonin and GDA cotreated plants had no significant effect, suggesting the involvement of MaHSP90s in the cross talk of melatonin and auxin in response to fungal infection. Taken together, this study demonstrated that MaHSP90s are essential for melatonin‐mediated plant response to Fusarium wilt, which extends our understanding the putative roles of MaHSP90s as well as melatonin in the biological control of banana Fusarium wilt.