bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of ocular higher order aberrations on contrast sensitivity.
Authors: GIANNAKOPOULOU T , PLAINIS S , PALLIKARIS A , PALLIKARIS IG 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose The objective of the study was to evaluate the impact of ocular higher order aberrations on the contrast sensitivity function(CSF). Methods Twenty‐one subjects (age:25.4±5.0) volunteered to participate in the study.Best spectacle‐corrected contrast sensitivity of the dilated dominant eye was evaluated using vertical gratings (Gabor patches with a sd of 1.2deg at 2m distance) displayed on a Sony F520 CRT monitor by means of a VSG2/5 stimulus generator card.Average screen luminance was 30cd/m2.Contrast sensitivity was assessed for 6 spatial frequencies(1,2,4,8,12 and 16c/deg) and for artificial pupils of 3 and 6mm diameter.Retinal illuminance was equalised in both conditions by using an NDfilter.Threshold was determined using a binary‐search staircase with a contrast resolution of 1dB.Ocular aberrations were recorded at 6mm pupil with a COAS wavefront sensor(Wavefront Sciences Ltd).Objective image quality metrics,e.g Modulation Transfer Function(MTF)and Root Mean Square(RMS)wavefront error,were calculated using custom‐written scripts in Matlab. Results CSF and MTF were fitted using 3rd order polynomials.The area calculated by the integral of the fitted functions was used as a measure of performance.CSF was found depressed for 6 compared to 3mm pupils,as was the case for the MTF.Moreover,the decrease in performance at 6mm was always more pronounced for the MTF than the CSF.No significant correlation was found between the CSFarea and the respective MTFarea or any other image quality metrics. Conclusion Ocular higher order aberrations adversely affect contrast sensitivity,particularly at high spatial frequencies.However,objective measures of higher order aberrations,such as the MTF and the RMS error cannot simulate their impact on the CSF.
The AGREE instrument applied to visual health: an assessment of the health protocols used in Spain to measure the effects exposure to VDT
Authors: SEGUI CRESPO MM , LOPEZ NAVARRO A , RONDA PEREZ E , TASCON BERNABEU E , MARTINEZ VERDU FM 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Developing an instrument for appraising health protocols and testing its application through the assessment of a specific clinical protocol applied in Spain to protect the visual health of workers using computers. Methods In the development of the appraisal tool, the Spanish version of the AGREE instrument was taken as the starting point and modifications were then introduced. For the assessment of the health protocol a Delphi technique and the nominal group were used. A group of 9 experts carried out the individual anonymous assessment. The level of agreement between experts for responses to each of the questions was defined, as was the number who had chosen the same option for closed responses. Results The appraisal tool comprised 13 questions organised into 5 domains, and one final question aimed at eliciting a global evaluation of the protocol. Regarding the agreement between experts, this exceeded 50% for 10 of the 14 questions. Responses most frequently chosen by the assessors for all of the questions were the least favourable to the protocol indicating the protocol significantly failed to fulfil the conditions addressed in the majority of the questions considered. Conclusion Application of this appraisal tool has enabled a good degree of agreement to be reached for experts’ responses when assessing aspects related to the clinical protocol for visual health of workers using computers demonstrating its applicability and capacity for obtaining conclusive widely endorsed assessments.
Hans Goldmann (1899 – 1991) – the man who coined the daily practice of ophthalmology worldwide during half a century until today
Authors: GLOOR B 
Published: September 2009

AbstractGoldmann presented 1937 a slit lamp, which allowed for the first time to examine the whole eye from the surface of the cornea to the fundus on the sitting patient with ease. Motion in three dimensions was possible with the fingertips of one hand. A reduction of the angel between observation and illumination beam allowed to use contact lenses with the free hand to investigate 360° of the chamber angle. Since then the difference between angle closure and open angle glaucoma is established. The illumination system of the slit‐lamp was brought in vertical position in 1958, the Haag‐Streit slit lamp 900 was born. It sets, with a few modifications, still the standard. In the meantime the Goldmann cupola perimeter was developed (1945), which allowed the standardization of background and target illumination for the first time. The applanation tonometer was introduced in 1954, again a standard instrument until today. Meanwhile these instruments determine the daily practice, for Goldmann they were, with other inventions, the tools to measure patho‐physiologic processes and to understand diseases. Most determined was Goldmann in glaucoma research: Gonioscopy, perimetry to follow the increase of glaucomatous damage, detection of the aequeous veins, measurement of the production of the aqueous by fluorescein‐dilution curves, determination of the outflow facility and pseudofacility, establishment of the “Goldmann‐Formula”, tonometry by applanation and finally stereochronoscopy, these were the steps that unveiled glaucoma. Goldmann, a most gifted fascinating personality, born in Komotau in Bohemia, grew up in Prague, was educated in arts, mathematics and physics, was trained by von Tchermak‐Seysenegg and Elschnig in Prague, then by Siegrist in Berne. He became Siegrists successor in Berne 1935, this in spite of dangerous feuds with Alfred Vogt on the etiology of the glass blower cataract. He was granted Swiss citizenship 1936. He was an exceptionally great teacher for the students. He became Rector magnificus of the University of Berne in 1965. He retired in 1968, having chaired the department for 44 years. He remained active in research until his late eighties. 1991 ophthalmology lost one of his greatest genius.
Pathogen interactions in the pathogenesis of endophthalmitis
Authors: GILMORE MS 
Published: September 2009

AbstractEndophthalmitis is an often blinding complication of penetrating globe injury, and an unfortunate consequence of common ocular surgeries, which requires immediate intervention. Although penetrating injuries are more likely to be associated with infectious complications, because of the number of ocular surgeries performed, postoperative endophthalmitis is its most common form. Given the challenge of maintaining a sterile field in ocular surgery, the fact that many surgeries are sutureless leaving a potential portal of entry, and the reported rates of bacterial contamination of irrigation fluid, it is perhaps surprising that the rate of infection in most centers is between 1 and 3 per 1000 surgeries. Although postoperative endophthalmitis rates are low, they appear to be increasing in the US and potentially elsewhere. This may relate to increased age of patient at the time of surgical intervention, increased rates of underlying illness, especially adult‐onset diabetes, and other factors. The development of new knowledge in several key areas is setting the stage for new and better strategies for infection treatment and prevention. It is now appreciated that the immune privilege of the posterior segment creates a highly permissive environment for the growth of microbes of even low virulence, such as coagulase negative staphylococci – a leading cause of postoperative endophthalmitis. The widespread use of antibiotic has selected for resistant strains of these and other organisms with increased virulence, including the ability to form tenacious and antibiotic refractory biofilms. We are beginning to understand the molecular basis for immune privilege in the posterior segment as it relates to the ability of innate immunity to contend with infecting microbes. We are also beginning to understand basic principles of the physiology of bacterial biofilms. The posterior capsule represents an important anatomical barrier to endophthalmitis, but many cases occur without known intraoperative breach. Studies now are attempting to identify bacterial properties, such as the production of tissue‐destructive proteases, that promote translocation of the microbes through an intact capsule and into the posterior segment. The contribution of innate immune privilege of the posterior segment, microbial virulence, and biofilm formation to endophthalmitis will be presented.
Unravelling the mysteries of ocular lymphomas
Authors: COUPLAND SE 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose There has been a bewildering evolution in the nomenclature of lymphomas, including ocular lymphomas. Confusing as this may seem, this is a reflection of impressive advances in our understanding of lymphoma pathogenesis, mainly as a result of immunohistology and molecular biological research. This overview will summarise the main successes of ocular lymphoma research and its translation into clinical practice. Methods The WHO lymphoma classification is based on the morphology, immunophenotype and genotype of tumour cells and their relationship to a putative cell of origin. Most ocular adnexal lymphomas (OAL) are low‐grade B‐cell lymphomas (EMZL), thought to arise from marginal zones of lymphoid follicles. Their development is associated with chromosomal abnormalities, autoimmune disease & microorganisms. Traditionally, OAL have clinically been staged using the Ann Arbor system, which has many shortcomings. The novel TNM‐based staging system defines disease extent more precisely and allows for analysis of site‐specific factors. Results Retinal lymphoma has been vaguely subsumed under the term "primary intraocular lymphoma": it is a high‐grade B‐cell malignancy, associated with a poor prognosis as a result of CNS disease. Immunophenotyping and genetic analysis suggest that retinal lymphomas arise from early post‐germinal centre cells. Other less common intraocular lymphomas include primary choroidal lymphomas (a low‐grade EMZL), primary iridal and ciliary body lymphomas, and secondary uveal lymphomas. Conclusion Ocular lymphomas are heterogenous tumours with differing subtypes and varying clinical courses. Precise nomenclature together with exact subtyping and clinical staging is essential, to understand ocular lymphoma histiogenesis and to facilitate studies improving prognostication and therapy.
Aqueous humor heparin‐binding epidermal growth factor‐like levels in patients with acute anterior uveitis.
Authors: FRANCES‐MUNOZ E , GALLEGO‐PINAZO R , DIAZ‐LLOPIS M , SALOM D , GARCIA‐DELPECH S , UDAONDO‐MIRETE P , SANZ E 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Heparin‐binding epidermal growth factor‐like growth factor (HB‐EGF) is a potent antiapoptotic protein that enables cells and tissues exposed to different apoptotic stimuli to survive hypoxic, oxidative, and inflammatory stresses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels of HBEGF (HBEGF) in the aqueous humor in eyes with acute anterior uveitis (AAU). Methods A prospective, comparative control study. Aqueous humor was collected from 16 eyes of 16 patients with AAU. The level of HBEGF was determined with a commercially available enzyme‐linked immunoabsorbent assay kit. The control group comprised 16 aqueous samples from 16 patients about to undergo cataract surgery and without any other ocular or systemic diseases. Results The concentration of HBEGF in aqueous humor was markedly higher in patients with UUA than in control subjects (Mann‐Withney U test, P< 0.001). The level of HBEGF was 45.18 ± 54.58 (mean ± SD) pg/ml in eyes with UUA and 8.15 ± 5.71 pg/ml in the eyes of the control group. Conclusion The aqueous humor HBEGF level is increased in eyes with AAU. These results imply that HBEGF is associated with the regulation of inflammation in patients with AAU
A case of intraocular dirofilaria in a dog: alarm bell for human beings?
Authors: DODI PL , ZANOTTI C 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose The genus Dirofilaria includes various species, in particular immitis and repens, that are natural parasites of dogs and other domestic and wild mammals. From those natural hosts microfilariae circulating in blood may accidentally be transmitted by mosquitoes to man. These microfilariae can be localized in the human beings' periorbital or subconjunctival tissues or in the intraocular region. This case report observed an increase of the ocular filariasis in dogs and it aims to put emphasis on the possible transmission of this parasite from animals to the human eye. Methods A 2‐year‐old male, mixed breed living in the North of Italy, in the Emilia Romagna area, was presented to the author having pain to the right eye. Ocular esamination showed miosis, corneal edema and low intraocular pressure. Slit lamp examination revealed a lively motile worm in the anterior chamber. Results It was not possible both to remove the parasite and to identify its species. At the same time no parasite was identified in the peripherial blood. Conclusion The rise of weather temperatures of these last years caused an increase in the occurrence of “tropical disease”. This particuar case shows many similarities to the human parasite because the dog had no microfilariae in the blood. Many studies pointed out a remarkable incidence of microfilariae in the dogs' eyes living in the Mediterrenean area; this remark must be taken into serious consideration because it can be considered as an emerging zoonosis and as an alarm bell for human beings.
Evaluation of cerebrospinal fluid pressure in patients with Alzheimer’s disease as a possible cause of glaucoma
Authors: KIEKENS S , DE GROOT V , TASSIGNON MJ , DE DEYN PP 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose To investigate whether cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure and trans‐lamina cribrosa pressure gradient play a role in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. Our hypothesis is that a low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure may be correlated with the presence of glaucoma. The first objective is to investigate whether the CSF pressure in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients with glaucoma is lower than in AD patients without glaucoma. The second goal is to evaluate an animal model with AD for the incidence and prevalence of glaucoma. If glaucoma is present histopathological analysis will be performed on retina and optic nerve, to search for Alzheimer‐type changes. Methods Newly diagnosed AD suspects will undergo a lumbar puncture with CSF manometry, during neurological work‐up. Ophthalmological evaluation consists of best corrected visual acuity, slit lamp biomicroscopy, gonioscopy, fundoscopy and pachymetry. Diagnosis of glaucoma or ocular hypertension will be made on the basis of visual field examination, optic disc evaluation and IOP measurement. Correlation between CSF pressure, trans lamina cribrosa pressure gradient and the presence of glaucoma will be calculated. The prevalence of low tension glaucoma will be compared to the prevalence of chronic open angle glaucoma with elevated IOP. In the second part of the project a genetically modified strain of mice with AD will be examined and screened for the development of glaucoma. Opthalmological examination will consist of IOP measurement, corneal pachymetry, optic disc evaluation and visual evoked potentials with flash. Histopathological analysis will be performed by the team of Prof De Deyn PP. Results will follow Conclusion will follow
The role of VEGF in intermediate uveitis patients
Authors: VIDOVIC VALENTINCIC N , KRAUT A , KOROSEC P , HAWLINA M , ROTHOVA A 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Intermediate uveitis (IU) represents a chronic type of uveitis which usually manifests at young adult age with the vitreous and peripheral retina as the major sites of the inflammation. The cause and pathogenesis of IU are not known. Cystoid macular edema (CME) is the main cause of permamnent visual loss in IU. Cytokines and chemokines play a major role in the pathogenesis and persistence of intraocular inflammation. The era of anti VEGF biologics opens the new possible way of treatment of uveitic macular edema of which scarce reports are found until now. Methods Prospective cohort study. We compare the intraocular VEGF profiles in 30 patients with IU with various stages of inflammatory activity and 10 healthy controls with cataract and no uveitis in whom the AqH samples were collected during cataract surgery. Comparison was also made between the 7 IUpatients with and 23 IU patients without cystoid macular edema; for 10 IU patients with active and 20 with nonactive IU. Concentrations were measured by multiplex immunoassay method in the aqueous humor. Results There were no statistically significant differences IU patients/control group (P= 0.293); for the IU with/without CME (P=0.666);for active/not active IU (P=0.502). Conclusion Although there are many known and unknown factors influencing vascular permeability in macular edema there is a question of reasonableness of treating the CME with intravitreal anti VEGF in IU patients with CME.
The Sanger Institute mouse genetics programme: progress on the high throughput characterisation of knockout mice
Authors: GERDIN AK 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Anna‐Karin Gerdin The Wellcome Trust Mouse Genetics Programme Group Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire, CB10 1SA, England, UK. Email: mousegenetics@sanger.ac.uk The Sanger Institute Mouse Genetics Programme is committed to making a significant contribution to the functional annotation of the mammalian genome. We are utilising the growing knockout first conditional ready targeted ES cell resource currently being created by the EUCOMM and KOMP initiatives to generate, characterise and archive 250 lines of knockout mice per year, including 40 lines for the EUMODIC consortium. In addition to studying the role of each gene in normal development and function, the breadth and depth of our phenotyping platform ensures that phenotype information on a wide spectrum of disease conditions is obtained for each individual mouse line without the need for any prior assumptions about function. All phenotype data and biological resources generated by the programme are openly available to the scientific community. Methods Eye morphology is routinely assessed using the Slit Lamp and Ophthalmoscope. Details are documented using a standardised checklist of observable characteristics. When abnormalities are identified, images are collected directly from the Slit Lamp or, for the retina, by using a topical endoscope (TEFI). Furthermore, we are in the process of assessing the Optokinetic Drum and its suitability in our high throughput phenotyping pipeline to measure visual perception and acuity. Here we report the progress on the Eye and Vision screens. Results We present a summary of the phenotyping data available to date and examples of novel findings from a subset of interesting mutant lines.
Screening for mouse eye and vision defects at MRC Harwell
Authors: MULFORD C , JOYNSON R , CROSS S , WEST K , MCKIE L , JACKSON I 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Characterisation of novel genes involved in vision and eye development from the Harwell EUMODIC screen and a recessive ENU mutagenesis screen. Methods Mice have been generated through the EuComm and EuModic programmes that have knockout mutations in defined genes. In addition, mice with random, undefined, mutations have been produced by chemical mutagenesis. Cohorts of these mice have been subjected to slit lamp examination and indirect ophthalmoscopy, and are tested for visual function using a virtual optokinetic drum with a computer generated image displayed around the test animal. Further phenotypic characterisation involves histology and use of tissue markers. In order to preserve the three‐dimensional structure of the eye for examination of the vasculature, for example, we are exploring the use of Optical Projection Tomography which images the intact eye and allows reconstruction of eye structure. Results We have identified a number of mouse lines defective in the visual system. These defects include microphthalmia, eyes open at birth, lens, cornea or iris defects, intraocular bleeding, and retinal degeneration. Furthermore, one line exhibits persistent fetal vasculature in the vitreous (PHPV) which normally regresses after birth through the action of resident macrophages. Determining the basis of this phenotype involves analysis of both the embryonic and adult eye, since mice with defective optic‐fissure closure have also been described with this phenotype. Conclusion Characterisation of these mutant lines will enable us to contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the genetic regulation of eye development and tissue maintenance within the visual system. Many of these mutants are valuable genetic models of human eye diseases.
Progress in the appraisal and management of inflammatory CNVs
Authors: NERI P 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose To review the current Literature and to describe the experience of a tertiary referral centre on the progress in the appraisal and the management of inflammatory choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Methods The current literature is reviewed and the experience of a tertiary referral centre is reported. Results CNV is a potentially severe sequela of posterior uveitis. The role of chronic inflammation has been described in experimental uveitis. For such reasons, even when biomicroscopy and fluorangiography (FA) cannot detect abnormalities, Indocyanine Green Angiography (ICGA) can show choridal anomalies. ICGA greatly improved the appraisal of the choroidal involvement, by providing reliable data for the diagnosis and for the management of inflammatory CNV. The new spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) equipments can provide further informations that can be useful for a correct clinical assessment. The out‐come of subfoveal CNV is poor if untreated: several procedures have been considered, even though there is lack of guidelines. Steroids, both local and systemic, are the first line therapy for non‐infectious choroidal inflammation, although their long‐term use can lead to unpleasant sequala, such as glaucoma and cataract. Immunesuppressive agents, lasers photocoagulation, photodynamic treatment, surgical removal and anti‐Vascular Endothelial Growth Fact (VEGF) are other options. Conclusion CNV secondary to uveitis is a severe sequela leading to significant visual impairment. ICGA is mandatory in order to obtain relevant informations about the choroidal status. Several therapeutic options have been considered, but no guidelines are available at the moment.