bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Visual dysfunction and retinal changes in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Rodrigo M.J. , Obís J. , Cipres Alastuey M. , Vilades E. , García‐Martín E. , Satué M. 
Published: September 2016

PurposeTo evaluate structural changes in the retina and their correlation with visual dysfunction in patients with multiple sclerosis.MethodsPatients with multiple sclerosis (n = 84) and healthy controls (n = 84) underwent structural evaluation of the retinal nerve fiber layer, and macular and ganglion cell layer thicknesses using Spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD‐OCT). All subjects underwent high and low contrast visual acuity, color vision (using the Farnsworth and L′Anthony desaturated D15 color tests), and contrast sensitivity vision using the Pelli Robson chart and CSV 1000E test.ResultsMacular, retinal nerve fiber layer, and ganglion cell layer thinning was observed in multiple sclerosis patients compared to healthy controls (p < 0.05). High and low contrast visual acuity and contrast sensitivity vision at four different spatial frequencies were significantly reduced, compared with healthy subjects (p < 0.05). Macular, retinal nerve fiber layer and ganglion cell layer measurements correlated with high and low contrast visual acuity, and contrast sensitivity vision. Contrast sensitivity vision was the functional parameter that most strongly correlated with the structural measurements in multiple sclerosis and was associated with ganglion cell layer measurements. The L′Anthony color vision score (age‐corrected color confusion index) was associated with macular measurements.ConclusionsPatients with multiple sclerosis had visual dysfunction that correlated with structural changes evaluated by SD‐OCT. Macular and ganglion cell layer measurements may be good indicators of visual impairment in multiple sclerosis patients.
Effects of current treatments in progressive retinal nerve fiber layer loss in multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Satue M. , Rodrigo M.J. , Obis J. , Cipres Alastuey M. , Vilades E. , Garcia‐Martin E. 
Published: September 2016

PurposeTo evaluate progressive changes in the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) to assess the possible neuroprotective role of different frequently used therapies in this disease.Methods104 patients with MS underwent a complete ophthalmic evaluation including structural assessment of the RNFL thickness using Spectral domain Optical coherence tomography (SD‐OCT). All subjects were re‐evaluated after 5 years to quantify structural changes. Changes were compared between treated and untreated patients, between different therapies and between intramuscular (IM) interferon (IFN) beta‐1a (Avonex) and other frequently prescribed treatments (subcutaneus IFN beta‐1a, IFN beta‐1b, glatiramer acetate, metoxantrone and natalizumab).ResultsSignificant thinning of the peripapillary RNFL thickness was observed at 5‐year follow‐up in all patients (p < 0.001). A significant loss in the RNFL thickness (inferior sector, p = 0.002) was observed in the treated group compared to untreated patients. No significant differences were found between therapies when single groups of treatments were compared. Progressive RNFL loss was observed in the glatiramer acetate group over the IM IFN beta‐1a group (p = 0.002). A clear tendency towards a greater axonal loss was observed in the IFN beta‐1b, the glatiramer acetate and the SC IFN beta‐1a group compared to IM IFN beta‐1a treatment.ConclusionsIM IFN beta‐1a may have a neuroprotective effect over progressive axonal degeneration in MS patients compared to other current therapies. These patients present progressive axonal loss detected by the analysis of the RNFL using OCT which may be useful to evaluate disease progression and effectiveness of current MS therapies.
Incidence of macular oedema following pan‐retinal photocoagulation using a multi‐spot semi‐automated pattern‐scanning laser in one sit versus 4 monthly sits in mild proliferative diabetic retinopathy or pre‐proliferative diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Gabrielle P.H. , Massin P. , Kodjikian L. , Bron A. , Creuzot C. 
Published: September 2016

PurposeTo compare the central retinal thickness (CRT) 9 months after a pan retinal photocoagulation (PRP) with a multi‐spot semi‐automated pattern‐scanning laser (PASCAL) in one sitting (1S‐PRP) vs. four monthly sitting (4S‐PRP) for diabetic retinopathy.MethodsProspective multicenter randomized study carried out between October 2011 and November 2015, including patients with a mild proliferative diabetic retinopathy or a pre‐proliferative diabetic retinopathy (DR). Patients with best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) under 54 letters ETDRS (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study) and CRT ≥ 350 mm were excluded. DR was treated by PRP with at least 3,000 burns given with a PASCAL laser either in one session or in four monthly sessions. Each patient underwent a complete ophthalmologic exam including an assessment of BCVA, a 9 fields retinophotography and a Spectral‐Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (SD‐OCT) macular imaging at baseline and at one, two, three, six and nine months after inclusion.ResultsEighty one eyes of 81 patients were included with a median age of 56 years [IQR : 47.0; 66.0]. The mean CRT and median BCVA did not significantly differ between both groups during all the follow‐up and especially at 9 months (285 mm [273.5; 304.0] in 1S‐PRP vs. 291 mm [275.5; 313.0] in 4S‐PRP, p = 0.27/82 letters [76.8; 87.3] vs. 82 letters [75.3; 87.0], p = 0.76). A positive effect on DR at 9 months was observed in 32 (84.2%) of eyes in the 1S‐PRP group vs. 27 (75.0%) of eyes in the 4S‐PRP group (p = 0.39). The 1S‐PRP strategy was nearly 2 times shorter and less expensive (22 min [17.5; 30.5], 471€/patient) compared with the 4S‐PRP strategy (43 min [37.0; 59.5], p < 0.001, 775€/patient).ConclusionsOur study showed the non‐inferiority of the PRP in 1 sitting versus 4 monthly sittings in term of CRT and the medico‐economic interest of a single session PRP.
Late reopening of successfully treated macular holes after combined phaco‐vitrectomy ILM peel and gas
Authors: Ponomarenko M. , Lochhead J. 
Published: September 2016

PurposeTo demonstrate reduction in reopening of macular holes after minimally invasive suturless vitrectomy and ILM peel combined with phaco compared with published literatureMethodsRetrospective analyses of the operation notes and follow up appointments in consecutive patients treated successfully for macular hole with a minimum of 24 months follow up. All patients were included who had combined phaco vitrectomy for macular hole, between 1/1/2011 and 1/4/2014. Anatomical success was confirmed on OCT in all cases within 2 month of surgery. Statistical analysis was performed using chi square to compare the outcomes with published data and assess the significance of these findingsResultsCurrently in the medical literature, the late reopening rate following successful macular hole surgery is reported to be between 1–9.5% (different surgical techniques used, references available). Late failure has been associated with subsequent cataract surgery and ERM formation. In this study, we report no reopening of macular holes post vitreo‐retinal surgery when combined with ILM peel and phacoemulsifcation of the lens (rate of 0%). We found this difference to be statistically significant as compared to average rates of reopening from the published studies.ConclusionsCombination of minimally invasive vitrectomy and ILM peel with phacoemulsification of the lens potentially leads to reduced rates of late macular hole reopening; therefore, may be a preferred method of treatment.
Outcomes after proton beam therapy for large choroidal melanomas in 492 patients
Authors: Bensoussan E. , Baillif S. , Maschi C. , Caujolle J.P. , Thariat J. 
Published: September 2016

PurposeTo evaluate proton beam therapy (PBT) as a mean to preserve the eye and spare some vision while not deteriorating survival in patients with large choroidal melanomas.MethodsThis is a retrospective, consecutive cohort study of patients with T3‐4 choroidal melanomas according to the 7th edition of the American Joint Cancer Classification treated with PBT over a 24‐year period.Results492 patients were included. Mean tumor thickness and diameter were 8.77 (2–15) mm and 14.91(7–24.1) mm, respectively. Mean macular and optic disc distance were 4.56 (0–19.9) mm and 4.59 (0–22.1) mm, respectively. Mean follow‐up was 61.9 months. Rates of neovascular glaucoma (NVG) and enucleation (mainly for local recurrence or NVG) were 27.0 and 19.5%, respectively. Enucleation rates decreased over time. The five‐year local control was 94%. Mean baseline visual acuity was 20/63, and visual acuity ≥20/200 was preserved in 20% of patients. At five years, 25% of T3 patients presented with metastasis, overall and specific survival rates were 65 and 75%, respectively.ConclusionsLocal control after PBT remained good with increasingly manageable complications and fewer secondary enucleations over time for these large melanomas. As PBT does not seem to deteriorate survival in these patients having a high risk of metastasis, PBT may be considered as a safe and efficient alternative to enucleation in patients with large choroidal melanoma, and may help to spare some vision.
Longitudinal changes in retinal nerve fiber layer thickness in a healthy caucasian population
Authors: Popa Cherecheanu A. , Barac C. , Miu J. , Roncea T. , Nicolae A. , Duta S. , Pirvulescu R. 
Published: September 2016

PurposeTo study the loss of retinal nerve fiber layer thickness over time in healthy subjects.MethodsIn this prospective longitudinal study 65 female and male subjects (age 62.7 ± 10.6 years) were included. In the present study an optic disc cube scan protocol was employed to measure RNFLT using the Cirrus HD‐OCT. The OCT scans were repeated in intervals between 3 and 6 months, the number of OCT scans was between 3 and 11 and the average observation period was 30 months. Linear mixed models were used to fit OCT data.ResultsOn average a loss of RNFLT was seen during the average observation period. In a multiple regression model two factors influenced the results: age and baseline RNFLT. The greater the RNFLT value at baseline the stronger the loss of RNFLT. When dividing the subjects into 2 age groups a decrease in RNFLT was only seen in older subjects (70.2 ± 6.1 years), but not in younger subjects (55.1 ± 8.6 years). This decrease of average RNFLT in the older age group was −0.61 μm/year (95% confidence interval −1.10 μm/year to −0.11 μm/year).ConclusionsThe present study indicates a loss of RNFLT thickness over time in healthy subjects. This decrease was seen in older subjects, but not in younger individuals. The age‐dependent loss of RNFLT should be considered when progression is analyzed in patients with neurodegenerative diseases such as glaucoma, multiple sclerosis or Alzheimer's disease.
Contribution of dual fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography to the appraisal of posterior involvement in birdshot retinochoroiditis and Vogt‐Koyanagi‐Harada disease
Authors: Balci Ö. , Jeannin B. , Herbort C.P. 
Published: September 2016

PurposeTo assess the levels of retinal versus choroid involvement in two stromal choroiditis entities, birdshot retinochoroiditis (BRC) and Vogt‐Koyanagi‐Harada (VKH) disease in initial onset non treated disease.MethodsThis retrospective study included patients diagnosed with BRC and VKH, seen during initial onset disease at the Centre for Ophthalmic Specialized Care, Lausanne, Switzerland. Angiographic signs were quantified, using an established dual FA and ICGA scoring system for uveitis, and the FA/ICGA ratios were compared between diseases.ResultsAmong 1,739 patients with uveitis seen from 1995 to 2014, 7 newly diagnosed BRC patients and 4 patients with newly diagnosed VKH disease were included in the study. Patients with BRC and VKH had mean FA angiographic scores of 16.64 ± 3.75 and 4.25 ± 1.83; mean ICGA angiographic scores of 21.00 ± 3.48 and 25.25 ± 3.84; and mean FA/ICGA ratios of 0.79 ± 0.21 and 0.17 ± 0.09, respectively.ConclusionsThis study showed the differential involvements of the retina and choroid in BRC and VKH. Choroid was predominantly involved in both diseases, which clearly indicated that ICGA was the method of choice, and that it should be performed in conjunction with FA. Also, the FA/ICGA ratio highlighted the fundamental differences between BRC and VKH. VKH had a purely choroidal origin of inflammation, and BRC had both retinal and choroidal origins of inflammation.
Molecular mechanisms of X‐linked retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Zhang X. , Shu X. 
Published: September 2016

PurposeRetinitis Pigmentosa is a class of inherited retinal degeneration that causes progressive vision impairment even blindness. The mutations of Retinitis Pigmentosa GTPase Regulator (RPGR) gene account for up to 20% of RP cases. RPGR protein is highly expressed at the connecting cilium of vertebrates’ photoreceptors. RPGR protein has the function of regulating protein trafficking from basal body to axoneme. The trafficking is controlled by the protein complex formed by RPGR, RPGRIP1 and IFT proteins, although its precise function yet to be identified. RPGR−/− mice model was employed for investigating disease mechanisms during retinal degeneration.MethodsCell death pathway and protein trafficking were detected by immunohistochemistry.ResultsThe retina of RPGR−/− mice started to undergo degeneration from 3M old. The caspase dependent cell death pathway was found to be activated during degeneration. The Apoptosis Inducing Factor existed in outer nuclear layer indicated that caspase‐independent apoptosis also contributed to cell death. The activated microglia, showed migration from outer plexiform layer to ONL in the retina of RPGR−/− mice and the downstream inflammation pathway were activated in RPGR−/− retina. Prior to the onset of retinal degeneration, the key elements involved in the phototransduction such as rhodopsin already mislocalized and accumulated in inner segment and outer nuclear layer. The mislocalization may result from the abnormal formation of the regulator of membrane trafficking Rab8 in RPGR−/− mice that controls the fusion of rhodopsin transport carrier and directs the cargo delivery across the CC.ConclusionsIn Conclusion, multi‐pathways were involved in the photoreceptor cell death and the deficiency of RPGR led to abnormal localization of the crucial proteins that participate in photoreceptor maintenance and phototransduction.
Involvement of abnormally‐activated CD44+ cells migrating from the iris to the center of the cornea in Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy
Authors: He Z. , Thuret G. , Jun A.S. , Muraine M. , Kallay L. , Toubeau D. , Pereira S. , Bergandi F. , Gain P. 
Published: September 2016

PurposeNormal regeneration of the adult corneal endothelium and cellular mechanisms involved in Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) remain poorly understood. Aim: to present original observations establishing common ground between both mechanisms in order to open new perspectives in their understanding.Methods30 corneal buttons of FECD, and of other corneal diseases, 40 healthy whole corneas, and 6 whole corneas with early stages of FECD were used. Mean donor age was 72 years. Immunostaining on flat mounted corneas highlighted the expression of corneal endothelial cell (CEC), of stem cell, and of extracellular matrix (ECM) markers.ResultsThe central endothelium of FECD and the extreme peripheral endothelium of healthy corneas shared common features: a weak expression of CEC markers (Na+/K+ ATPase, ZO‐1, COX IV, NCAM, CD166), expression of stem cells markers (nestin, c‐myc, telomerase, CD44), similar characteristics in Descemet membrane (Guttae and Hassal‐Henle bodies, high expression in col I, IV and V). An anatomical continuity and cell migration from the iris root, through TM, until the extreme peripheral endothelium was highlighted using col I and CD44. Similar CD44+ cells, and pseudo guttae were also observed in the central endothelium of corneal buttons with irido‐corneal synechiae.ConclusionsResults suggest that a population of iris‐derived CD44+ cells migrate through the TM to the extreme periphery to constitute a source for endothelium regeneration in healthy corneas; their abnormally‐activated migration toward the center might cause FECD.
Could 24‐S‐hydroxycholesterol play a role in Müller glial cell's membrane dynamics in the rat
Authors: Bron A. , Ferrero A. , Gambert‐Nicot S. , Brétillon L. , Acar N. , Creuzot‐Garcher C. 
Published: September 2016

PurposeThe catabolism of cholesterol in neurons leads to a more hydrophilic compound soluble form, the 24‐S‐hydroxycholesterol by means of an enzyme the CYP46A1.The aim of this study was to analyse the implication of 24‐S‐hydroxycholesterol (24‐S‐OHC) on Müller glial cells (MGC) membrane dynamics in the rat.MethodsMGC were grown in vitro from retinas of 10‐day‐old Long Evans rats. Cells were treated with 24‐S‐OHC (treatment) or ethanol (control) for 2 min or 6 h. From twenty millions of MGC in each group, lipid‐rafts were obtained after a 1% Lubrol lysis and an ultra centrifugation (180,000 g – 20 h – 4°C). The following proteins: caveolin, flottilin, connexin 30 and 43, CRALBP, DHAPAT, GFAP and vimentin were analysed using Western blotting on all fractions (lipid‐rafts and non‐rafts). MGC membrane fluidity was studied in vitro with two different techniques: anisotropy measurements performed with the lipophilic fluorescent probe TMA‐DPH and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) observed using confocal microscopy.Results24‐S‐OHC treatment on in vitro MGC increased the expression of GFAP and delocalized GFAP in the lipid‐raft fraction; 24‐S‐OHC treatment induced a delocalization of DHAPAT protein out of the lipid‐rafts fraction. Anisotropy was decreased with the 24‐S‐OHC treatment (difference: 5.1 × 10−3; p < 0.01) revealing an increase of the membrane fluidity. This increase was confirmed by the FRAP technique, which showed a shorter time of fluorescence recovery for the treated cells.ConclusionsThis study showed that 24‐S‐OHC could be a candidate leading a key role in the activation of MGC, disturbing lipid‐raft organization by changing the localization of signalization proteins and increasing membrane's fluidity.
Essentials of a good article
Authors: Stefansson E. 
Published: September 2016

SummaryThe intrinsic quality of a scientific article depends first and foremost on its scientific content. However, the way in which the scientific material is presented and the paper is written may determine whether the scientific content will ever receive the attention it deserves. There may not be any perfect recipe for a perfect paper, but it is possible to point out some general characteristics of good papers, and we will try to do so. Our guidance is based on convention and personal preference, reflecting our experience as authors, reviewers and editors. We hope our advice will be useful, especially to those who are starting to write scientific papers.
Wave‐amplitude differences between corneal and conjunctival electrodes for multifocal electroretinogram
Authors: Munoz‐Negrete F.J. , Rebolleda G. , Garcia Garcia A. 
Published: September 2016

PurposeTo compare the wave amplitude of multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) responses from DTL electrode located on the conjunctival fornix (fDTL) and ERG‐jet contact lens electrode (CL).MethodsThirty patients and 18 matched healthy volunteers were evaluated. Wave amplitude and level of discomfort with each electrode were compared in both patients and healthy volunteers. Comparisons among wave amplitudes were performed using Intraclass Correlation CoefficientResultsmfERG by corneal electrode provided the highest wave amplitude in both healthy subjects and patients (p < 0.005), but it associated the highest discomfort (p < 0.001) and the highest rate of dislocations. CL was able to differentiate patients from controls just in the ring 1 (central 2°) of the mfERG. By contrast, fDTL provided the lowest wave amplitude but better discriminated between patients and control group in ring 1 (central 2°) and 2 (2–5°) of the multifocal ERG. cDTL produced significant more artifacts in both groups (p < 0.001).ConclusionsAlthough mfERG wave amplitude measurements were correlated, they cannot be directly compared, so it is mandatory to create an appropriate normative database with each electrode. Despite providing the lowest amplitudes, fDTL seems to offer the best features to perform mfERG regarding discomfort, number of artifacts and diagnostic capability.
Treatment of visual impairment in patients with Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) using Idebenone (Raxone®)
Authors: Metz G. , Hasham S. , Catarino C. , Klopstock T. 
Published: September 2016

PurposeLHON is an orphan mitochondrial disorder affecting the retinal ganglion cells leading to permanent blindness from which recovery is rare. More than 90% of patients harbor one of three mitochondrial DNA mutations in the genes coding of complex I of the respiratory chain. Idebenone, a short‐chain benzoquinone, is a potent antioxidant and also interacts with the electron transport chain facilitating mitochondrial electron flux. Due to these properties idebenone (Raxone®) has been investigated for the treatment of LHON and we summarize the evidence available for efficacy based on a placebo controlled trial and from clinical practice.MethodsVisual acuity data from a randomized study (RHODOS), from case reports, retrospective cohort studies, an Expanded Access Program (EAP) and a natural history case report survey have been collected in a database of approximately 500 patients. The disease progression based on natural history data and from the Placebo treated patients are compared to the outcome for patients treated with idebenone with respect to the prevention of vision loss and the recovery of lost vision.ResultsIn RHODOS, the number of patients experiencing a clinically relevant recovery after 6 months of treatment was 10.3% in the Placebo group and 30.2% in the idebenone treated group. Patients in the EAP showed a recovery rate of 30.6% after 6 months of treatment increasing to 49.3% when comparing the final outcome after 15 m (mean treatment) to the VA at nadir. The number of patients experiencing vision loss to above 1.0 logMAR VA was lower in RHODOS and in the EAP when compared to the datasets of untreated patients.ConclusionsA large body of evidence demonstrates that patients with LHON benefit from Raxone treatment and that the drug is well tolerated.