bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhanced 3D retinal vascular network reconstruction from high‐definition SD‐OCT
Authors: RODRIGUES P , GUIMARãES P , SERRANHO P , BERNARDES R 
Published: November 2013

AbstractPurpose To compute the 3D vascular network of the human retina from high‐definition spectral‐domain optical coherence tomography (OCT).Methods A method able to compute a fundus reference from SD‐OCT scans of the human macula to an extent similar to what can be achieved with color fundus photography was recently proposed by our research group. We resort to this new method and to an automatic supervised‐learning classification algorithm (both submitted for publication) to identify OCT A‐scans that cross the vascular network. A multi‐scale wavelet analysis is performed on each of these A‐scans to identify the transition between the hyper‐reflectivity due to the vessel and the shadow cast due to light absorption by hemoglobin. This transition is set as the vessel depth location, and the respective diameter estimated as the width from the computed fundus reference.Results Eyes of healthy controls (N = 10) and eyes (ETDRS levels 10 to 35) from type 2 diabetic patients (N = 20) were imaged with the Cirrus HD‐OCT (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA, USA) and photographs were obtained with the Topcon TRC 50DX (Topcon Medical Systems, Inc., Oakland, NJ, USA) or the Zeiss FF 450. The vascular tree from the OCT reference presents an extension similar to that of the color fundus photography, 99.7(10.68)% (average(SD)). The 3D reconstruction of the vascular network allows to clearly distinguish between crossovers and bifurcations and the vascular network distribution is in agreement with the known anatomy of the human retina.Conclusion The herewith presented method allows the visualization of the vascular network in 3D and compares favourably to the previous method both in terms of quality and extension of the vascular tree.
Early and sustained treatment modifies the phenotype of birdshot retinochoroiditis
Authors: PAPADIA M , KNECHT P , HERBORT CP 
Published: November 2013

AbstractThe present appraisal of Birdshot retinochoroiditis (BCR) is based on obsolete criteria that only represent advanced disease. Early diagnosis of BC can only be done using indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) showing the typical choroidal involvement. The aim of this study was to investigate long‐term follow ups of BRC patients regarding the impact of early treatment on the phenotype of BRC, both on ICGA findings as well as fundus appearance. 13 patients had sufficient data to be included in the study. Out of 13 patients, 8 showed typical birdshot lesions at presentation according to the presently used criteria. A significant proportion of the “no lesions” group did not develop typical birdshot lesions throughout the course. Mean treatment delay was 45.50 ± 33.39 months in the “typical lesions” group and 5.80 ± 2.95 months in the “no lesions” group. Early treatment can avoid the apparition of typical BRC lesions in the same fashion as early and heavy treatment can avoid the development of “sunset glow” fundus in Vogt‐Koyanagi‐Harada disease (VKH). Early diagnosis relies heavily on ICGA, that together with FA, visual field testing and presence of HLA‐A29 antigen allows the diagnosis before typical birdshot lesions can be seen.
Uveitis has become a precise clinical science: Multimodal investigational approach and management
Authors: HERBORT C 
Published: November 2013

AbstractIn recent years the appraisal of (posterior) uveitis has substantially improved. Classical investigational modalities such as fluorescein angiography (FA) and echography have been completed by an array of new preceise and complementary investigational methods. Laser flare photometry (LFP) together with imaging methods including indocyanine green angiography (ICGA), optical coherence tomography (OCT), ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM), fundus autofluorescence (FAF) together with functional tests such as microperimetry and computerized visual testing allow us to exactly determine the level of inflammation as well as morphological and functional involvement. This new comprehensive approach brought enhanced diagnostic possibilities as well as precise monitoring of disease evolution and impact of treatment.
Results of epicorneal keratoprostheses
Authors: LIU C , AVADHANAM V 
Published: November 2013

AbstractEpicorneal keratoprostheses sit on the cornea with only the posterior optical part protruding through the cornea into the globe. Examples include the osteo‐odonto‐keratoprosthesis (OOKP), tibial KPro, Pintucci KPro, and coralline KPro. Typically they have a biological cover usually buccal or labial mucosa. This paper examines the relative advantages and disadvantage of this family of devices, and their published results in terms of vision and retention.
Direct intraarterial (ophthalmic artery) chemotherapy for advanced intraocular retinoblastoma: Five years experience
Authors: DE FRANCESCO S , DE LUCA M , BRACCO S , GALLUZZI P , BORRI M , MICHELI L , HADJISTILIANOU T 
Published: November 2013

AbstractPurpose To report five years of conservative treatment for advanced retinoblastoma with the direct intra‐arterial‐ophthalmic artery infusion of Melphalan alone or Melphalan and Topotecan.Methods 75 children (82 eyes) with advanced retinoblastoma (Stage D‐E/VA –VB) were entered in phase two of one center open study‐approved protocol of ophthalmic artery infusion (Italian intra‐arterial protocol, approved by the Ethic Commettee – University Hospital of Siena). Seven cases have been treated bilaterally. 40 eyes were first diagnosis (naïve) and 42 were relapses following chemotherapy and focal therapy and/or radiotherapy.Results Cannulation of the ophthalmic artery was performed by a femoral artery approach using microcatheters (magic 1.5) while the children were under general anesthesia and anticoagulated. Chemotherapy (Melphalan alone or Melphalan and Topotecan) was infused into the artery over a 30‐minute period (dose of 3‐7 mg of Melphalan and 0.3‐0.4 mg of Topotecan, according to the age and size of the globe). Local and systemic toxicity have been evaluated and documented.Conclusion 75 children (82 eyes) with advanced retinoblastoma were eligible for the intra‐arterial Italian Protocol. The 65.8% of all treated eyes is in complete remission. Superselective chemotherapy delivered through the ophthalmic artery can avoid enucleation, primary radiation or abuse of systemic chemotherapy.
IgG4‐Positive orbitopathy
Authors: HEEGAARD S 
Published: November 2013

AbstractPurpose To give an overview of IgG4‐positive orbitopathy. A newly described disease of the orbit.Methods Critical review of the present literature demonstrated by a patient case.Results The clinical appearance, high incidence of bilateral disease, association with lesions in other organs, and increased IgG 4 serum levels along with the histological findings of IgG4–positive cells, more background fibrosis, lymphoid hyperplasia, plasma cells and eosinophils are the characteristics of this disease.Conclusion Patients with IgG4–positive cells in an orbital biopsy may have an orbital manifestation of IgG4‐associated systemic disease
What is important in present and future IOL materials & design?
Authors: BARRAQUER R 
Published: November 2013

AbstractIOL progress has followed 2 main lines: optical performance,and materials/design. This talk reviews their impact and possible future trends.IOL optics evolved from spheric monofocal to aspheric (+optionally toric) to multifocal; from refractive to diffractive multifocality, currently with several choices regarding add, bi‐ vs trifocality, etc. Additionally a number of designs attempt to reproduce the lens accommodative mechanism. However,none of the available options truly restores the physiological accommodation of the youth. The main drive for the evolution of IOL materials and designs has been implantability through an ever‐decreasing incision width. While this may have created some compromises regarding materials and optical quality/stability, it seems unlikely that this process could revert. Next major issue is the prevention of PCO. Aspects as the posterior square edges and hydrophobic materials are widely assumed as useful to prevent PCO. However, a general proof is difficult due to the numerous factors involved (IOl & non‐IOL) and the great variability of designs. IOL materials durability lags in a 3rd position of interest (apart from cases of IOL opacification) but is likely an emerging topic for the near future.
Prevention of autophagy activates inflammasome signaling in ARPE‐19 cells treated with a proteasome inhibitor
Authors: KAUPPINEN A , PIIPPO N , HYTTI M , KINNUNEN K , SALMINEN A , KAARNIRANTA K 
Published: November 2013

AbstractPurpose Age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most prominent cause of severe vision loss in western countries. Inflammation is known to play a central role in the pathogenesis of AMD but the mechanisms are still largerly unknown. Lately, the novel signaling pathway of intracellular multi‐protein complexes called inflammasomes has been associated with the disease. In addition to inflammation, decline in the intracellular cleaning systems, i.e. autophagy and proteasomal degradation, is another hallmark of AMD. In the present study, we have studied the cross‐talk between NLRP3 inflammasomes and autophagy.Methods ARPE‐19 cells were grown into confluence and exposed to the proteasome inhibitor MG‐132. Thereafter, Bafilomycin A was added and the cell cultures were incubated for another 24 hours.Results Our results show that the inhibition of lysosome acidification by Bafilomycin A increased the release of inflammasome‐related cytokine IL‐1 in MG‐132‐treated ARPE‐19 cells. In addition, the amounts of inflammasome receptor and adaptor proteins, i.e. NLRP3 and ASC, respectively, as well as the activity of the executive Caspase‐1 enzyme were increased.Conclusion Our present results suggest that intracellular protein aggregates could induce the inflammasome activation in ARPE‐19 cells especially in circumstances where autophagy is declined.
Functional and molecular characterization of ex vivo cultured epiretinal membrane cells from proliferative diabetic retinopathy
Authors: PETROVSKI G , VEREB Z , ANDJELIC S , LUMI X , GLOBOCNIK‐PETROVIC M , URBANCIC M , HAWLINA M , FACSKO A 
Published: November 2013

AbstractPurpose To characterize the cell surface marker phenotype and function of ex vivo cultured cells growing out of human epiretinal membranes (ERMs) from proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).Methods All tissue collection complied with the Guidelines of the Helsinki Declaration. ERMs were obtained from vitrectomies due to intravitreal hemorrhage in PDR. Ex vivo cultivation under adherent conditions was performed in DMEM supplemented with FBS and the cell surface marker phenotype determined. Release of IL‐6, IL‐8 and TNFalpha was measured upon activation of the cells with TLR lingands and TNFalpha. The dynamics of the intracellular calcium was measured using fluorescent dye Fura‐2 and imaged in response to mechano‐stimulation.Results The cultivated ERMs formed proliferating cell monolayers when cultivated ex vivo. These cells were negative for endothelial markers (CD31, VEGFR2), partially positive for hematopoietic (CD34, CD47) and mesenchymal markers (CD90, PDGFRb, CD73) and negative for CD105. IL‐6, IL‐8 and TNFalpha secretion could be measured upon activation of the cells by LPS, Poly I:C and TNFalpha. Mechano‐stimulation of the outgrowing cells induced intracellular calcium propagation representing their functional viability.Conclusion ERMs from PDR contain cells of hematopoietic and mesenchimal origin which have proliferative potential, release pro‐inflammatory cytokines upon selective inflammatory stimulation and show functionality reflected through calcium dynamics upon mechano‐stimulation.
The effect of hyperglycaemia on permeability and tight junction components in human retinal and choroidal endothelial cells
Authors: STEWART EA , SAKER S , AMOAKU WM 
Published: November 2013

AbstractPurpose Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of preventable blindness in the working population. The main cause of visual loss in diabetic retinopathy is diabetic macular oedema caused by an increase in microvascular endothelial permeability. The aim of this project was to determine the effect of hyperglycaemia, in vitro, on human choroidal (hCEC) and retinal microvascular endothelial cells (hREC).Methods Microvascular permeability was assessed through passage of dye through a confluent cell layer in the presence of hyperglycaemia. Microarray analysis and western blotting was used to compare the expression of selected tight junction molecules (Occludin, Claudin‐5, JAM‐A and JAM‐C) and adheren junction (VE‐Cadherin) molecules was compared between hCEC and hREC and with hyperglycaemia.Results Hyperglycaemic conditions significantly increased the permeability in both hCEC and hREC. Microarray analysis and western blotting determined that the baseline hREC expression of occludin and claudin‐5 was higher than hCEC. In hREC exposed to hyperglycaemia claudin‐5, occludin and JAM‐A were found to be reduced. None of the proteins were decreased by hyperglycaemia in hCEC.Conclusion Although hyperglycaemia increased permeability in both hCEC and hREC, tight junction protein expression was only reduced in hREC, indicating a different mechanism of increased permeability in hCEC compared to hREC.
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Proteasome dysfunction in retinal pigment epithelium during aging contributes to the pathogenesis of Age‐Macular related Degeneration
Authors: GIRAO H , MARQUES C , SOARES A , FERNANDES R , PEREIRA P 
Published: November 2013

AbstractPurpose Age‐related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in people older than 50 in developed countries, and is associated with formation of subretinal deposits (drusen) and damage to Bruch’s membrane (BM) basal to the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). It has been reported that activities of the ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway (UPP) in retinal pigment epithelium decrease upon aging. Previous studies demonstrated that expression of ubiquitin in which lysine 6 is replaced by tryptophan (K6W‐Ub) impairs the function of UPP. The main objective of this work was to investigate the hypothesis that chronically impairment of UPP in RPE contributes to some of the cardinal features of AMD, including drusens.Methods To address this question ARPE‐19 cells were infected with empty vector, K6W Ubiquitin mutant and Wild Type Ubiquitin. The drusen formation and accumulation in basal matrix was evaluated by confocal microscopy, using specific drusen markers such as APOE, while exosome realease was determined by western blot (such as CD63 and Tsg101) and flow cytometry following exosomes isolation by ultracentrifugation.Results The results obtained showed that expression of K6W mutant Ub leads to an impairment of proteasome activity and an increased amount of exosomes release and drusen accumulation.Conclusion In this study the data might provide a vaulable tool to eluciadte the biological determinats of age‐related proteolytic stress and its impacts on proteostasis in the retina.
The KORA‐AGE eye study: Eye diseases in the elderly
Authors: GRAW J , STROBL R , HEIER M , LINKOHR B , PETERS A , HOLLE R , GRILL E 
Published: November 2013

AbstractPurpose To estimate the prevalence of major age‐related eye diseases in a population‐based regional study in Southern Germany.Methods 822 randomly selected persons (age 68‐96 years) from the KORA AGE study were asked in 2012 in a standardized interview for the presence of major eye disorders like cataracts, glaucoma and age‐related macula degeneration (AMD). In case of any positive reply, the ophthalmologist in charge was asked for validation and specification of any eye disease.Results 465 persons reported any eye disorder (57%); 71% of them could be validated and specified. There were 182 confirmed cases of cataracts, 7 of glaucoma and 5 of AMD. Additionally, there were 52 cases of cataracts and AMD, also 54 cases of cataract and glaucoma and 11 cases of cataract, glaucoma and AMD. In 62% cases cataracts developed prior to any of the other eye diseases. Adjusted for age, women had a significantly higher risk for cataracts (OR = 1.72) and for AMD (OR = 1.94) than men; no gender‐specific difference was observed for glaucoma. Among patients with cataracts, 69% had lens surgery.Conclusion We confirmed cataracts as the major age‐related eye diseases; however, the number of glaucoma and AMD were surprisingly low. Further analyses are planned to identify risk factors and to show how eye diseases are independent risk factors for increased frailty and disability in the aged. This study was supported by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) within the programme "Healthy Ageing" (FKZ 01ET1003)
Novel glaucoma surgery techniques
Authors: ZEYEN T 
Published: November 2013

AbstractNovel glaucoma surgery techniques can be divided into ab‐interno gonio‐surgeries and ab‐externo procedures involving the conjunctiva. An overview of the new procedures will be provided with emphasis on their efficacy and complications. The evidence of the available studies will be presented and an attempt will be made to clarify the role of the novel procedures within our glaucoma treatment algorithm.
Ocular surface reconstruction
Authors: SHORTT AJ 
Published: November 2013

AbstractThe ocular surface is a highly specialised environment with complex homeostatic mechanisms. Severe ocular surface disease can cause significant morbidity through recurrent epithelial breakdown, predisposition to infection and blindness. Ocular surface reconstruction (OSR) strategies aim to restore sufficient ocular surface function to permit the maintenance of an intact transparent epithelium. OSR begins by addressing the quality and volume of tears. Next the position and closure of the eyelids are evaluated and addressed. Only once these factors have been addressed can attention be turned to surgical reconstruction of the ocular surface. The algorithms that guide the choice and timing of surgical interventions are becoming more clear. These universally advocate transplantation of limbal epithelial stem cells prior to surgical replacement of stroma with or without endothelium. Results for autologous ex‐vivo expanded limbal stem cell transplants in chemical injuries are excellent. Results for allogeneic grafts are no better than older whole limbal transplants such as keratolimbal allografts. Ex‐vivo cultured autologous oral mucosal stem cells offer an alternative in bilateral disease but such grafts are less optically transparent.
Angiogenic role of glycerol in laser‐induced choroidal neovascularization
Authors: YASUMA R , YASUMA T , KIM Y , GELFAND B , FOWLER B , KERUR N , BASTOS DE CARVALHO A , MIZUTANI T , AMBATI J 
Published: November 2013

AbstractPurpose It has been reported that intravitreous administration of anti‐mouse IL18 antibody increases laser‐induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in mice (Doyle et al. Nat Med 2012). However, since those experiments compared an anti‐mouse IL18 antibody to a sham injection group, we tested the putative angiogenic effects of this antibody using biologically and chemically rigorous controls in order to clarify the role IL18 in laser‐induced CNV.Methods Laser photocoagulations were performed to perforate Bruch’s membrane followed by intravitreous injections, and the eyes were collected and analyzed on day 7 after laser treatment. Laser‐induced CNV lesions were stained with isolectin B4 and volumes quantified using z‐stack on a confocal microscope system (Leica). We tested the Abcam anti‐mouse IL18 antibody used by Doyle et al. which was dissolved in 50% glycerol, an MBL anti‐mouse IL18 antibody, as well as isotype control antibodies in appropriate control buffers.Results We found that MBL anti‐mouse IL18 antibody neutralized IL18‐induced cellular signaling whereas the Abcam antibody did not do so. We also found that the Abcam IL18 antibody increased CNV whereas the MBL antibody did not. We found that glycerol increased CNV to the same extent as the Abcam IL18 antibody, and that the Abcam IL18 antibody in glycerol did not increase CNV in mice deficient in Aquaporin‐1, a channel that is permeant to glycerol and promotes angiogenesis.Conclusion IL18 blockade does not increase CNV. The previously reported results are an artifact of pro‐angiogenic glycerol in which the Abcam IL18 antibody is dissolved.
Outcomes of vitrectomy for vitreous haemorrhage (VH) in patients with presumed choroidal neovascularization (CNV)
Authors: KOH L , LAUDE A 
Published: November 2013

AbstractPurpose To evaluate the role of vitrectomy for eyes with dense VH presumed secondary to CNV, as well as their clinical outcomes.Methods Retrospective, consecutive case series from a single centre of 11 eyes of 11 patients over 2 years who underwent vitrectomy, and with no other identified ocular pathology e.g. diabetic retinopathy or trauma.Results Visual acuity (VA) improved in 9 (82%) patients with mean logMAR VA change of 1.19 (+/‐ 0.69). Prior to vitrectomy, intravitreal anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (anti‐VEGF) had been given to 2 patients; pneumatic displacement of submacular haemorrhage to 1 patient; and photodynamic therapy with verteporfin to 1 patient. There were no pre‐existing retinal breaks found in all patients intraoperatively. Intraoperative complications include 1 posterior capsule rupture with anterior chamber intraocular lens insertion and 2 iatrogenic retinal breaks treated with laser. Angiography identified polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy in six, occult CNV in one and retinal pigment epithelium rip but no identifiable vascular lesion in one. Angiography was not done in three due to extensive disciform scarring. Lesions beyond the vascular arcade were found to have better prognosis. Recurrence of vitreous haemorrhage occurred in 2 patients.Conclusion Vitrectomy for patients with dense VH and presumed CNV (most commonly PCV) was found to be useful to improve visual acuity, especially for lesions beyond the vascular arcade, although effect is limited. Vitrectomy also allows for subsequent retinal evaluation and angiography. The absence of pre‐existing retinal tears is in agreement with the reported outcome that the pathophysiology of breakthrough VH does not involve retinal tears.
Idiopathic macular hole closure toward the optic disc after internal limiting membrane peeling
Authors: OHTA K , SATO A , FUKUI E 
Published: November 2013

AbstractPurpose To compare the distance between the optic disc and the fovea before and after successful closure of a macular hole (MH) by pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling. In addition, to investigate whether the distance is significantly correlated with the retinal thickness around the MH.Methods Thirty‐seven eyes of 36 patients with an idiopathic MH that underwent PPV with ILM peeling were studied. The distance between the point of intersection of the disc margin with a temporal‐inferior vessel and the center of the opened or closed MH was measured manually with the Spectralis HRA+OCT (Heidelberg Engineering, Germany). The retinal thickness of macula was also measured by the volume scan mode.Results The mean disc‐foveal distance was significantly shorter postoperatively than preoperatively (3783.7 ±308.5 um and 3914.5 ± 320.4 um, respectively; P<0.0001). The distance in eyes with stage 3 and 4 MH (n=22) was significantly greater than in eyes with stage 2 MH (n=15) (136.7 ± 134.9 um vs. 107.8 ± 107.7 um, respectively; P=0.012). The distance in stage 3 and 4 MHs (n=21) was weakly but significantly correlated with the mean postoperative parafoveal nasal thickness (r=0.45; P=0.038).Conclusion The significantly shorter postoperative disc to fovea distance in eyes with closed MH especially in stage 3 or 4 MH suggests that the MH moves nasally after PPV with ILM peeling.