bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Can current velocity mediate trophic cascades in a mountain stream?
Authors: Wellnitz Todd 
Published: August 2014

Summary

Trophic cascades can be context‐dependent in that they occur under some conditions but not others. An important context for stream benthic communities is near‐bed current velocity, which varies at the spatial scale at which benthic species interactions occur.

To investigate how centimetre‐scale variation in near‐bed current velocity influenced the occurrence of benthic cascades, I studied a stonefly/mayfly/algal system in a high‐gradient Rocky Mountain stream and examined the effect of 10 and 25 cm s−1 current (i.e. ‘slow’ and ‘fast’, respectively) on stonefly predation and its top‐down effects.

There were two experiments using stream‐side mesocosms and a third using in‐stream troughs. The two mesocosm experiments had known numbers of stoneflies and mayflies and examined how near‐bed current influenced (i) top‐down cascades driven by non‐trophic, behaviourally mediated predator effects (stonefly mouthparts were glued shut) and (ii) direct predation. The in‐stream experiment allowed mayfly grazers to arrive and depart freely and examined how near‐bed current and stoneflies influenced algal accumulation and community structure.

Results from these experiments showed that top‐down cascades occurred in slow, but not fast current, and that these cascades are driven largely by the non‐trophic effects of predation. The mesocosm experiment showed that mayflies removed less algae in slow current when stoneflies with glued mouthparts were present. There was 33% greater algal biomass in slow compared with fast current, and algal biomass in the slow current did not differ from that in the grazer‐free controls. The predation experiment showed that stoneflies captured approximately twice as many mayflies in slow as compared to fast current.

The in‐stream experiment found that algal biomass increased when stoneflies were present, but grazer densities did not differ from stonefly‐free controls, supporting the hypothesis that effects mediated by behaviour drove the cascade.

This study suggests that near‐bed current can turn stonefly/mayfly/algae cascades ‘on’ and ‘off’ at small spatial scales and provides a new perspective for understanding algal heterogeneity on natural streambeds.
Efficient Calibration/Uncertainty Analysis Using Paired Complex/Surrogate Models
Authors: Burrows Wesley , Doherty John 
Published: August 2014

AbstractThe use of detailed groundwater models to simulate complex environmental processes can be hampered by (1) long run‐times and (2) a penchant for solution convergence problems. Collectively, these can undermine the ability of a modeler to reduce and quantify predictive uncertainty, and therefore limit the use of such detailed models in the decision‐making context. We explain and demonstrate a novel approach to calibration and the exploration of posterior predictive uncertainty, of a complex model, that can overcome these problems in many modelling contexts. The methodology relies on conjunctive use of a simplified surrogate version of the complex model in combination with the complex model itself. The methodology employs gradient‐based subspace analysis and is thus readily adapted for use in highly parameterized contexts. In its most basic form, one or more surrogate models are used for calculation of the partial derivatives that collectively comprise the Jacobian matrix. Meanwhile, testing of parameter upgrades and the making of predictions is done by the original complex model. The methodology is demonstrated using a density‐dependent seawater intrusion model in which the model domain is characterized by a heterogeneous distribution of hydraulic conductivity.
OCT elastography
Authors: LEITGEB R 
Published: August 2014

AbstractFunctional extensions of optical coherence tomography (OCT) are today extensively studied as they have the potential to further enhance the diagnostic capabilities of OCT. Modern Doppler OCT, as the most prominent functional extension, yields outstanding contrast for the vascular plexus down to even smallest capillaries. Optical or OCT elastography is a very young functional OCT approach that gained from the developments of high speed OCT technology. It is capable to sense smallest structural tissue deformation during mechanical stress. The achieved deformation sensitivity is on the nanometer scale even in living retinal tissue. Due to the high sensitivity, OCT elastography is capable to observe tissue derformation caused by the natural pulse of the perfusion bed. This avoids external mechanical stress applied to the eye bulb and allows studying the biomechanical properties of tissue in its natural environment. Of particular interest is the motion of the fundus and of the lamina cribrosa (LC). First results indicate differential motion within the retina and LC of a few micrometer/second. This might be the basis for using the biomechanical status of the LC as new diagnostic biomarker of disease for example for glaucoma.
Choroidal thickness
Authors: SOUBRANE G 
Published: August 2014

AbstractThe role of the choroid has been established in a number of chorioretinal diseases. The choroid is qualitatively assessed with Fluorescein Angiography and even better with ICG angiography that explores the choroidal vasculature and the different originating pathologies. The quantitative assessment is yet clinically performed with OCT.The normal choroidal thickness ranges from 287 ± 74.2 to 345 ± 111µ depending on the instrument, the OCT technic, of the delineation of the choroidal limit. Factors affect choroidal thickness:age (and weight), axial length, possibly gender. Diurnal variations have been noted as well as a relation with water drinking. A number of chorioretinal diseases are associated with changes in the choroidal thickness. Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSC) exhibiting a choroidal hyperpermeabilityon ICG is associated with an increased choroidal thickness that elevates globally the retina from the RPE‐choriocapillaris band. The choroid may be so thickened as to lose signal penetration and intensity at increasing depth. The implication in CSC of the choroid is further supported by the aspect of the fellow eye. Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy (PCV) a vascular choroidal abnormality has a thick subfoveal choroid. Decreased choroidal thickness is found in Age related Macular Degeneration. In dry AMD, it is possible to visualize the hyperreflective choroid in the area of RPE atrophy.Similarly in exudative AMD, the choroid can be visualized beneath choroidal neovascularization. The choroid is very thin in degenerative myopiaand related to the axial lenght. The comparison of the choroidal thickness among eyes with neovascular AMD, PCV, CSC and normal eyes demonstrated that the choroid was thicker in PCV and CSC. The thicker choroid could be partially attributed to the dilation of middle and large choroidal vessels or an increase in the choroidal vascular permeability. Choroidal thickness may thus be very helpfull to differentiate border line cases with different treatment approaches. Post treatment analysis demonstates choroidal thinning, following PDT for CSC, anti‐VEGF therapy for wet/exudative AMD, and PDT + antiVEGF for PCV. Choroidal thickness can be an aadditional parameter to assist diagnosis and may indicate the activity of the disease and the response to treatment.
Neoplastic causes of acute visual loss
Authors: BOSCHI A 
Published: August 2014

AbstractVisual loss in relation with cancer has greatly increased in adult as in child. Not only because improvement of diagnostic techniques, but because survival rate has dramatically improved. Acute visual loss may be associated to direct or metastatic involvement of the eye or may be a consequence of cancer therapy including chemotherapy, radiation as newer modality like intra‐arterial injections. Considering the possible immunodysfunction in these patients infection as autoimmune disorders should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute uni or bilateral visual loss. Clinical features and therapeutic options will be discussed through clinical cases.
Macular response to a carotenoid supplement in healthy eyes
Authors: MARQUINA I , BRAUTASET R , NILSSON M 
Published: August 2014

AbstractPurpose Reduced macular pigment (MP) density is related to an increased risk of developing age‐related macular degeneration (AMD). The aim of this study was to measure the macular response to a MP supplement by measuring macular pigment optical density (MPOD) before and after consumption.Methods Fifty‐one healthy subjects (age 18‐62 years) participated in the study and were divided in two groups, one control group and one supplementary group. MPOD values were measured using heterochromatic flicker photometry (HFP) at baseline and after 90 days of supplementation with the dietary supplement MacuShield® (10 mg lutein, 10 mg meso‐zeaxanthin and 2 mg zeaxanthin).Results Mean MPOD values did not change significantly in any of the groups. A correlation between low MPOD values at baseline and a larger increase of MPOD values after supplementation was found in the supplementary group (r = ‐0.52, p = 0.008). Increased MPOD values also correlated with increasing age (r = 0.40, p = 0.0454).Conclusion The results of the present study indicate that older subjects with low MPOD values increase their MPOD values after supplementation. As increased age and low MPOD values increase the risk of developing AMD, it might be beneficial for these individuals to consume macular pigments to reduce the risk of developing AMD.
The best corrected visual acuity and retinal thickness are associated with improved cortical visual processing in treated wet‐AMD patients
Authors: VOTTONEN P , KAARNIRANTA K , TARKKA I , PÄÄKKÖNEN A 
Published: August 2014

AbstractPurpose Age‐related macular degeneration is the most common cause of blindness in the western world among elderly people. In response to anti‐VEGF treatment for wet‐AMD retinal anatomy and visual acuity is often remedied. In our previous study, we showed that also visual evoked potentials (VEP) improve following successful anti‐VEGF treatment. The aim of the present study was to investigate, if visual acuity and retinal thickness changes are associated with VEP parameters.Methods Fifteen patients enrolled this study. Patients received three bevacizumab intravitreal injections. At the beginning of the study and 4‐6 weeks after the last injection, the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) test, full biomicroscope examination, OCT analysis and VEP were performed.Results In treated eyes, logMAR visual acuity decreased on average 0.2±0.3 units, OCT retinal thickness decreased 170±200 micrometers and VEP amplitude increased 1.0±1.4 microvolts. All changes were significant at p<0.05. The relative changes of VEP amplitude and retinal thickness correlated significantly r=‐0.630 (p<0.05), as well visual acuity (logMAR) and retinal thickness r=0.576 (p<0.05). VEP latency did not correlate with retinal thickness or visual acuity.Conclusion We showed that both the increase in VEP amplitude and the improvement in visual acuity are correlated with the decrease in retinal thickness in treated wet‐AMD patients indicating that successful intravitreal anti‐VEGF treatment initiates significant changes in upstream visual processing in the brain.
CRVO treatments in 2014
Authors: GLACET‐BERNARD A 
Published: August 2014

AbstractAlthough central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) accounts for a minority of retinal vein occlusions, it is associated with more severe vision loss and with the vision‐threatening risk of neovascular glaucoma. The newly available treatments for macular edema have considerably improved visual outcome of many CRVO patients. Nevertheless, the evaluation of the ischemic component remains essential. The presentation will include when to perform laboratory workup for systemic disease and how macular edema treatment could be combined with classical treatment (etiologic treatment such as hemodilution, treatment of non‐perfusion area with laser photocoagulation).
Commercial interest
RVO related macular edema: Rules for the patients follow up; how to choose the applied treatment?
Authors: LOEWENSTEIN A 
Published: August 2014

AbstractThe treatment of RVO has dramatically evolved during the last few years. The main evidence base therapies are antiVEGF agents (Ranibizumab, Aflibercept, and level 2 evidence for bevacizumab) and steroids (Ozurdex). Each approach has advantages and limitations, while both have good efficacy results. In the decision making of the needed treatment inflammatory as well as VEGF pathways need to be taken into consideration. The treatment is to be tailored to the individual patient taking into consideration both ocular (existence of glaucoma, if it is controlled, existence of cataract, pseudophakia, ischemia), systemic (existence of cardiovascular risk factors) and social (ability to come monthly and availability of the health care system). Results of head to head trials are awaited.
Corneal decellularisation: recycling tissue for transplantation
Authors: WILSON SL 
Published: August 2014

AbstractPurpose There is a clinical need for reliable, reproducible biomimetic corneas. Decellularised tissues are advantageous compared to synthetic/semi‐synthetic tissues in that the native matrix ultrastructure and intrinsic cues including growth factors, cytokines and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) may be retained. However, there is currently no reliable, standardised human corneal decellularisation method. Here, we provide a systematic study of commonly used decellularisation methods and assess their appropriateness for corneal applications.Methods Eye‐bank tissue unsuitable for transplantation was used to test decellularisation methods: Dispase removal of the epi‐ and endothelium; Mechanical agitation; Hypertonic NaCl; Ionic detergent (SDS); Non‐ionic detergent (Triton‐X100); all followed by nuclease treatment. Removal of cellular material, preservation of transparency, retention of corneal architecture and GAGs was assessed via histological, immunofluorescence and quantitative analysis. Potential cytotoxicity in vitro of the treated tissue was also assessed.Results No decellularisation technique investigated successfully removed 100% of cellular components. The techniques which had the least residual DNA, SDS and Triton‐X100, were most structurally compromised with reduced GAG content. Dispase treated, NaCl and mechanically agitated corneas had better preservation of structure, transparency and GAGs, but had higher residual DNA.Conclusion The ability to reprocess and regenerate tissues deemed “unsuitable” for transplantation allows us to salvage valuable tissue. However, in order to progress, we may need to take a step back to establish a “decellularisation” criterion; which should balance effective removal of immune reactive material with maintenance of tissue functionality.
Behçet’s disease, VKH, sarcoidosis
Authors: KHAIRALLAH M , KAHLOUN R , BEN YAHIA S 
Published: August 2014

AbstractOcular involvement associated with Behçet disease is characterized by a relapsing remitting panuveitis with diffuse vitritis, retinal infiltrates, and occlusive vasculitis. Proper management relies on the early use of immunosuppressive drugs in combination with corticosteroids and administration of biologic agent in resistant and severe posterior segment involvement. VKH disease is a bilateral panuveitis that may be associated with extraocular manifestations. Exudative retinal detachment, associated with typical imaging findings, is the most specific feature to acute VKH disease. Sunset glow fundus is typical to chronic VKH disease. Complications are more likely to occur in the chronic recurrent phase. The mainstay of treatment for acute VKH disease relies on systemic corticosteroid therapy for at least 6 months. Immunosuppressive therapy is mainly used in chronic recurrent disease. Main ocular features of sarcoidosis include bilateral granulomatous anterior uveitis, vitritis with snowballs, multifocal chorioretinitis, and segmental periphlebitis. Diagnosis may be challenging in the absence of apparent systemic involvement. Treatment of sarcoidosis is based on corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents, in severe cases.
Photoreceptor toxicity of subretinal Mononuclear Phagocytes
Authors: GUILLONNEAU X , HU S , CALIPPE B , LAVALETTE S , SENNLAUB F 
Published: August 2014

AbstractGrowing evidences indicates that inflammation play an important role in AMD. In particular, subretinal mononuclear phagocytes (MPs) accumulate in the vicinity of the atrophic lesion of GA patients and are thought to contribute to photoreceptor degeneration. The mechanism by which MP participates to neuronal cell loss is currently unknown and no treatment is available to date to delay degeneration. We have recently shown that subretinal MPs that originate from the blood circulation and accumulate in the subretinal space are particularly detrimental in animal models of subretinal inflammation. Defects in the CX3CR1/CX3CL1 axis have been associated in animals with cardinal features of AMD including photoreceptor loss. We here show that CX3CR1 deficiency resulted in an exacerbated neurotoxicity of subretinal MPs. we present evidences that CX3CR1‐/‐ deficiency lead to the differentiation of subretinal MPs into an exacerbated pro‐inflammatory profile. Inhibiting neurotoxic mediators produced by subretinaly differentiated monocytes efficiently reduces photoreceptor loss in vitro and in animal models where MP accumulates. Our result provides new rationales to protect retina from damaging age‐dependent subretinal inflammation.
Use of antibiotic‐resistance‐free plasmids for non‐viral transfection of pigment epithelium‐derived factor in rat primary cells
Authors: GARCIA GARCIA L , RECALDE S , FERNÁNDEZ‐ROBREDO P , HERNÁNDEZ M , RODRIGUEZ JR , BEZUNARTEA J , MARIE C , SCHERMAN D , IZSVÁK Z , JOHNEN S , THUMANN G , GARCIA‐LAYANA A 
Published: August 2014

AbstractPurpose We aim to assess the pigment epithelium‐derived factor (PEDF) production in cells after transfection with plasmids free of antibiotic resistance markers (pFAR4) in a non‐viral Sleeping Beauty transposon system (SB100X).Methods ARPE‐19 cell line and primary rat iris and retinal pigment epithelial (IPE and RPE) cells were transfected with SB100X transposase and PEDF transposon encoding pFAR4 plasmids (1:16 ratio). Control cells were transfected with SB100X and pFAR4‐Venus plasmids. Supernatants were taken every 24 hours for kinetics. The effect of transfecting different amount of cells was also analyzed. PEDF production was tested by Western blot and ELISA.Results A cumulative PEDF secretion over time in ARPE‐19 and primary cells was shown, reaching almost 3‐fold higher PEDF production in ARPE‐19 cells. Control cells did not express recombinant PEDF, but showed fluorescence. The transfection of 10,000 cells clearly showed higher PEDF expression than cells that were transfected as a group of 70,000 and subsequently divided.Conclusion Rat primary cells are efficiently transfected and produced PEDF as it happens in ARPE‐19 cell line. Merging of the SB100X and pFAR4 technologies led to increased PEDF expression and improved safety by avoiding the transfer and potential integration of antibiotic resistance genes. This study demonstrates the feasibility of our approach based on ex vivo transfection of a low number of primary autologous pigment epithelial cells.
Contribution of "en face" SD‐OCT in inflammatory diseases
Authors: WOLFF B , VASSEUR V , BASDEKIDOU C , DE BATS F , SAHEL J , MAUGET‐FAYSSE M 
Published: August 2014

AbstractTo evaluate the retinal and choroidal changes in White Dot syndromes (WDS) using ‘’en face’’ and B‐scan OCT images. All the study patients underwent a comprehensive ophthalmologic examination including biomicroscopic fundus examination, color photography, fundus autofluorescence, fluorescein angiography, indocyanin green angiography and B scan and "en face" SD‐OCT. A total of 10 patients with Multiple evanescent white dot syndrome (MEWDS), 4 cases diagnosed with acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy (AMPPE), 1 case of serpiginous choroidopathy, 4 cases of multifocal choroiditis, 3 cases of punctuate inner choroidopathy (PIC) and 3 cases diagnosed with Birdshot disease were analysed and included in the study. The B‐scan findings were correlated with the angiography findings as well as with the ‘’en face’’ OCT scans. In all the cases the ‘’en face’’ OCT, providing a layer‐by‐layer view of the involved retina, enabled depicting in detail the IS/OS envolvement and the extent of the outer retinal damage. The patho‐physiologic mechanism of the WDS remains poorly understood. All these entities probably share a common pathway leading to external retinal involvem
Contribution of "en face" SD‐OCT in MacTel type 2
Authors: BASDEKIDOU C 
Published: August 2014

AbstractPurpose:To comprehensively evaluate the retinal and choroidal changes in eyes with type 2 idiopathic macular telangiectasia (MacTel) using "en face" and B‐scan SD‐OCT. Methods:Eyes with a diagnosis of proliferative or nonproliferative type 2 MacTel were prospectively studied. All the study patients underwent a comprehensive ophthalmologic examination including biomicroscopic fundus examination, color photography, fundus autofluorescence, fluorescein angiography, and B scan and "en face" SD‐OCT. Results: 20 eyes of 10 patients were included in this study. "En face" OCT C‐scans and conventional B‐scans were both able to show inner crystalline deposits (15%), retinal capillary anomalies (100%), intraretinal cysts (80%), hyperreflective spots in the outer nuclear layer (100%) and external limiting membrane (80%), hyperplastic pigment plaques (30%), intraretinal neovascularization (20%), photoreceptor loss (100%) and choroidal cavitations (30%). "En face" OCT C‐scans provided more information than B‐scans on intraretinal neovascularization, photoreceptor loss and Choroidal cavitations. “En face” OCT is a non‐invasive, and reproducible technique that helps to better assess and follow up retinal and choroidal processes in type 2 MacTel
Contribution of "en face" SD‐OCT in retinal toxicity
Authors: CAHUZAC A , VASSEUR V , PAQUES M , WOLFF B , MAUGET‐FAYSSE M 
Published: August 2014

AbstractPURPOSE: To assess retinal and choroidal changes in drug‐induced retinal toxicity using "en‐face" and BScan OCT images. METHODS: All patients underwent complete ophthalmologic examination, including fundus examination and autofluorescence, color photography, fluorescein and indocyanin green angiography. Type, amount and time of drug intake was precisely assessed. RESULTS: 8 patients were analysed and included retrospectively. Retinal toxicity was induced by tamoxifen in 2 cases, by synthetic antimalarial (SAM) drug in 3 cases and by inhaled amyl nitrite ("poppers") in 3 cases. The angiographic features, B‐Scan and "en‐face" OCT scans findings were correlated. In all cases, "en‐face" OCT provided precise anatomic location of the retinal layers involved, the extend of retinal damage, as well as follow‐up of these changes. CONCLUSION: "En‐face" OCT allows full imaging and better understanding of retinal toxicity induced by tamoxifen, SAM drugs and amyl nitrite.
Retinal astrocytes ‐characteristics and role in retinal blood vessel development
Authors: FRUTTIGER M 
Published: August 2014

AbstractDuring development retinal astrocytes emerge from the optic nerve as a proliferating and migrating cell population that spreads across the inner surface of the retina. This process is driven by retinal ganglion cells secreting platelet derived growth factor (PDGFA). The resulting retinal astrocyte network is essential for the developing retinal vasculature. The retinal astrocytes provide a critical substrate and trophic support via the secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) for the growing blood vessels.
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