bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The initial consultation
Authors: SPILEERS W 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose A patient reporting flashing lights, shimmering, positive scotoma, hallucinations, ...needs a full (neuro‐)ophthalmological work‐up. Methods The ophthalmological work‐up includes visual acuity testing, biomicroscopy of the anterior segment, examination of the fundus. In selected cases, more specific ophthalmic testing such as visual electrophysiology is needed. Sometimes a general work up is indicated. Conclusion The different neuro‐ophthalmological causes of reporting positive phenomena will be introduced.
Retinal causes
Authors: LEROY BP 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose To describe conditions which affect retinal function and can lead to seeing things which aren't there. Methods A case presentation format will be used to illustrate different genetically and environmentally determined conditions leading to visual hallucinations. Both clinical and electrophysiological phenotypes as well as genotypes will be discussed. Results Phenotypes of environmentally and genetically determined retinal diseases leading to visual hallucinations are very different. In some instances, the ophthalmologist can make a real difference when systemic treatment is indicated. Conclusion Very diverse conditions may give rise to seeing things which aren't there. Clinical examination and electrophysiology allow making a correct diagnosis, with sometimes far reaching implications for therapy.
Beyond penetrating keratoplasty: the challenge of endothelial transplantation
Authors: BUSIN M 
Published: September 2009

AbstractThe paper will present a complete review of the technique of endothelial keratoplasty (EK). History as well as basic principles necessary to understand the mechanisms of EK will be introduced to the attendees. In setting the indication to EK, the author will discuss the role of recipient corneal status, type of endothelial disease, concomitant eye disease (i.e. glaucoma), presence of clear lens and other preoperative factors. The different techniques of Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) and Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) will be presented, pointing out the single steps, which are instrumental in facilitating surgery, while improving the final outcome. In case of multiple intervention, combined versus sequential procedures (e.g. phacoemulsification, IOL surgery, vitrectomy, etc.) will be discussed. The authors will highlight advantages and disadvantages of different surgical approaches. Possible implications for eye banking will also be addressed, with particular emphasis on preparation and storage of tissue for DSAEK and DMEK. Slides and videos of case studies will illustrate the most common complications (i.e. graft detachment, dislocation, failure, rejection etc.) as well as the appropriate solutions.
Insights into regulation of the human corneal endothelial cell cycle
Authors: JOYCE N 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Human corneal endothelial cells (HCEC) exhibit both an age‐ and position‐related decrease in proliferative capacity. HCEC are inhibited in G1‐phase of the cell cycle, but this not caused by critically short telomeres. The current studies explored whether oxidative stress and oxidative DNA damage could be responsible for this decreased proliferative capacity. Methods Human donor corneas were divided into 2 age‐groups: Young=<30yo; Older=>50yo. Ex vivo corneas were used for some studies and, for others, HCEC were cultured according to published protocols. An ELISA assay quantified 8‐OHdG, a marker of oxidative DNA damage. ICC was used to localize 8‐OHdG. Treatment of HCEC from young donors with H2O2 was used to test the effect of oxidative stress on nuclear DNA damage and relative proliferative capacity. Results Significant oxidative DNA damage was present in HCEC from older donors, particularly in central endothelium. 8‐OHdG staining was present in mitochondria in central and peripheral HCEC from young donors. In HCEC from older donors, intense 8‐OHdG staining was found in nuclei of central cells, indicating nuclear oxidative DNA damage. Age‐related differences in nuclear 8‐OHdG staining were also found in cultured HCEC. Treatment of HCEC from young donors with H2O2 caused a dose‐dependent increase in nuclear 8‐OHdG staining and a dose‐dependent decrease in proliferative capacity. Growth curves from H2O2‐treated young HCEC closely resembled those of untreated HCEC from older donors. Conclusion The age‐ and position‐related decrease in proliferative capacity observed in HCEC is due to increased nuclear oxidative DNA damage, possibly caused by chronic light exposure and high metabolic activity.
Developing gene therapies for corneal endothelial disorders
Authors: LARKIN F 
Published: September 2009

AbstractTechniques of gene transfer to corneal cells have been in development for at least 15 years. Studies on feasibility of gene transfer and kinetics of transgene expression have been undertaken ex vivo and in vivo using physical, viral vector and non‐viral vector techniques of gene transfer. Functional gene transfer research has been developed for applications such as anti‐angiogenesis, modulation of stromal wound healing or endothelial cell cycle control and prevention of allotransplant rejection. The absence of such application in inherited disorders of corneal endothelium points to absence of in vivo models for study and the availability of surgical treatment which, in many patients, is effective. Opportunities in the field of gene‐based approaches to disorders of corneal endothelium lie in newer designs of low‐immunogenicity vectors, longer duration of transgene expression and application in eye banking. Experimental approaches which in essence use cDNA as an alternative to protein or drug treatment will be discussed. Supported by NIHR Biomedical Research Centre in Ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital & UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
Oxidative stress from in vivo dual waveband exposure to ultraviolet radiation
Authors: SÖDERBERG PG , LI Y , GALICHANIN K , KRONSCHLäGER M 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose The purpose of the current project was to elucidate if the effect of exposures to two wavebands is directly proportional to the sum of the biologically efficient dose for each of the two wavebands. Methods Altogether 40 albino Sprague‐Dawley rats, 6 weeks old (150 g), were exposed unilaterally in vivo to UVR. Half the group was exposed to 8 kJ/m2 biologically efficient dose (= absolute dose) of UVR centered at 300 nm. The other 20 rats were exposed, first to 4 kJ/m2 biologically efficient dose (= absolute dose) of UVR centered at 300 nm, and then to 4 kJ/m2 biologically efficient dose (= 42 kJ/m2 absolute dose) centered at 310 nm. All animals were sacrificed at 1 week after exposure and intensity of forward light scattering was measured in both lenses. Results The UVR 300+310 nm group expressed slightly more light scattering than the UVR 300 nm only group as indicated by a 95 confidence interval for the difference approximating the degrees of freedom due to different variances (CI:D(0.95)= ‐8.69 +/‐6.92 x10‐2 tEDC, d.f = 32.7). Conclusion Although, the outcome indicated that there is a difference between the two groups, the difference is very small in relation to spectral sensitivity. It is therefore concluded that it is a valid approximation to assume spectral additivity of biologically efficient doses when estimating effects of broadband exposures.
The role of mitochondrial glutaredoxin‐2 in protecting cells against oxidative stress
Authors: LOU M , WU HL 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Glutaredoxin 2 (Grx2) is an isozyme of glutaredoxin (Grx1) present in the mitochondria. Similar to Grx1, it has dethiolase activity but the general function is largely unknown. In this study, we investigate the potential anti‐apoptotic function of Grx2 through its ability to protect complex I enzyme in the mitochondrial electron transport system. Methods Grx2 plasmid or Grx2 siRNA was tramsfected in human lens epithelial B3 cells (HLE‐B3) to generate Grx2 overexpressed (OE) or Grx2 knockdown (KD) cell line. Cells with empty vector were used as the control. All three cell lines were incubated with and without H2O2 (0.2 mM) for 24 hrs before examining for cell viability (WST8 colorimetric method). Apoptosis was measured by flow cytometry, and the protein levels of Bax, Bcl‐2, cytochrome C and caspase 3 activation by Western blot analysis using specific antibodies. In some experiments, rotenone (0.5 mM), a specific inhibitor of complex I, was used together with H2O2 to evaluate complex I activity protected by Grx2. Results Grx2 OE protected HLE‐B3 cells from H2O2‐induced cell viability loss and apoptosis. These cells also exhibited high level of Bcl‐2 and inhibited cytochrome C release and caspase 3 activation induced by H2O2. In addition, Grx2 OE also protected mitochondria from H2O2‐induced loss in complex I activity. In contrast, Grx2 KD enhanced H2O2‐induced cellular damage and complex I inactivation. Conclusion Grx2 can protect HLEB3 cells against H2O2 induced apoptosis. The mechanism of this protection is likely associated with its ability to protect complex 1 in the electron transport chain and preserve the mitochondrial membrane integrity.
The ubiquitin proteasome pathway ‐ Repair or degradation of damaged proteins
Authors: FERNANDES R , BENTO C , SEIÇA R , PEREIRA P 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Accumulation of methylglyoxal (MGO), a highly reactive side‐product of glycolysis can modify proteins. Increased levels of MGO in cells have been implicated in diabetic vascular complications. In physiological conditions, proteolytic systems and chaperones together ensure maintenance of protein quality control. We hypothesize that MGO impairs the function of UPS and on molecular chaperones. Methods Rats with moderate type 2 diabetes (GK) and retinal epithelium pigment cell line were used. Protein oxidation was assessed by formation of carbonyl groups. Production of intracellular ROS was assessed in frozen sections of diabetic retinas by DHE incorporation. 20S proteasome activities were assessed by fluorogenic peptides. Ubiquitin (Ub) conjugation activity was determined by the ability of retinal extracts to conjugate 125I‐Ub to endogenous substrates. Ub conjugates, Hsp90, Hsc70, Hsp40 and CHIP levels were assessed by WB. Cell viability was determined by MTT while proliferation was assessed by BrdU‐incorporation. Results Data show that accumulation of endogenous Ub conjugates in the presence of MGO is associated with an increased ability of retinal extracts to conjugate 125I‐Ub to endogenous substrates. Moreover, MGO significantly decreases the 20S ptoteasome activity. Data further show that MGO decreases the levels of the molecular chaperones Hsp90 and Hsc70 and promotes aggregation of Hsp40 and CHIP. Moreover, these aggregates revealed immunoreactivity against Ub. Consistently, these effects are associated with increased cell protein oxidation, decreased cell proliferation and viability. Conclusion In diabetes, accumulation of MGO may impair the UPP and the protein quality control, leading to accumulation of obsolete proteins and cell injury.
Cataract, loss of visual acuity, infection after trabeculectomy
Authors: BRON AM 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Trabeculectomy is the most popular surgery for glaucoma, however some complications may impair the success of the procedure. Moreover without impacting the overall efficacy of trabeculectomy, the quality of life of the patients could be affected in a certain number of cases. Methods In this session we will give some tips to prevent and to treat these complications. Results Cataract is frequent after trabeculectomy and is mainly related to postoperative hypotony. In most recent clinical studies cataract has been shown to occur in half of the eyes 3 years after trabeculectomy. This has led H Jampel to write a provocative editorial; Trabeculectomy: more effective at causing cataract surgery than lowering intraocular pressure (Ophthalmology 2009;116:173‐174). In advanced cases, severe sight‐threatening complications such as the wipe‐out syndrome, even uncommon may definitely lead the patient to blindness. The two more frequent presentations of infection after trabeculectomy are blebitis and endophthalmitis. Both can occur several years after trabeculectomy and Streptococci which are frequently found are devastating strains. Antimetabolites greatly increase the prevalence of endophthalmitis after trabeculectomy. Other less severe complications such as bleb dysesthesia may alter the quality of life of the patients. Conclusion The information of the patients and the quality of the follow‐up are of paramount importance when a trabeculectomy is considered.
Regulation of transgene expression
Authors: KOCH P 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Regulation of the transgene expression in the targeted cells is of course of major importance when using gene therapy. Actually, we have a huge range of possibilities to regulate gene expression. Methods There are two main classes of promoters: constitutive and inducible promoters. Amongst constitutive promoters, we have two sub‐forms: non‐tissue and tissue specific promoters. The lasts allows us to better target the tissue or cells in which we want to express our gene of interest. On the other hand, inducible promoters have been widely developed recently and allow us to obtain a regulated expression, depending on different factors. Very recently, disease specific inducible promoters emerged for a more precise regulation. Results We will together examine more precisely the different possibilities offered by gene regulation in Gene Therapy. Thereafter, we will more specifically describe usable promoters in ocular inflammation. Finally we will examine the effects of some inflammatory, disease specific, promoters. Conclusion Regulation of transgene expression is one of the fundaments of efficient gene transfer. Recent developments actually allow us to play within the targeted cell(s) to obtain an expression in specific conditions.
Gene therapy for posterior uveitis
Authors: DICK AD 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose To investigate the role of gene therapy incorporating release of immunomodulatory cytokines in animal models of intraocular inflammation Methods By inoculating with either AAV or lente viruses incorporating genes for IL‐1RA or IL‐10 into either the anterior chamber or subretinally we onserved the ability to suppress either endotoxin induced uveitis (EIU) or experimental autoimmiune uveoretinitis (EAU). Results Anterior chamber inoculation with lente‐IL‐10 or IL‐1RA successfully suppresses inflammation and protein exudation into the eye during the course of EIU. Subretinal injection of AAV‐IL‐10 suppresses EAU. The extent of local macrophage activation is also suppressed as there is marked reduction in nitrotyrosine expression within the retina. Conclusion Gene therapy with immunomodulatory cytokines offers a potential to suppress active inflammatory processes within the retina. Mechanisms will be discussed in the talk in relation to macrophage activation and restoring myeloid cell (microgolial) homeostasis within the retina.
Uveal metastasis as initial manifestation of cancer
Authors: NOVAK ANDREJCIC K , KRAUT A , TEKAVCIC POMPE M , JANCAR B 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose To report clinical features of patients with uveal metastases and no known history of primary cancer at the time of ocular diagnosis. Methods A retrospective chart review of all patients with uveal metastases and with no history of primary cancer, evaluated at University Eye Hospital in Ljubljana over a 10‐year period was performed. Results A total of 9 patients, 4 women and 5 men with uveal metastases were included. Referral diagnosis was iris tumour in 2 patients, suspected uveal melanoma in 3 , choroiditis in 1 and undetermined choroidal tumour in 3 patients. None of the patients had a history of previous cancer. The diagnosis of uveal metastasis was established on the basis of medical history, clinical picture, standardised echography, fluorescein angiography and systemic evaluation. Iris and ciliary body were involved in one patient, iris in one, ciliary body and choroid in one, while choroid was the only site of metastatic involvement in 6 patients. In all patients only one eye was affected. A primary lung carcinoma was detected in 8 patients, whereas in 1 patient a primary carcinoma of the gastrointestinal tract was found. Conclusion Lung carcinoma was the most common site of primary cancer in our patients. Patients may have no known history of primary cancer at the time of ocular diagnosis, hence a thorough subsequent systemic evaluation is mandatory.
IgG4‐related sclerosing disease: Is there an association with orbital inflammatory pseudotumours?
Authors: HERWIG MC , FISCHER HP , HOLZ FG , LOEFFLER KU 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose IgG4‐related sclerosing disease is a systemic disease characterized histopathologically by extensive infiltration of various organs by IgG4‐positive plasma cells (and T lymphocytes). Frequently associated with elevation of serum IgG4 levels, major clinical manifestations are apparent in organs in which tissues fibrosis is induced, e.g. in the pancreas. Some variants of inflammatory pseudotumour of the orbit reveal histopathologically a close relationship to multifocal fibrosclerosis. We therefore evaluated the presence of IgG4‐positive plasma cells in this disease to possibly find an association with systemic IgG4‐related sclerosis. Methods We investigated 10 specimens of orbital pseudotumours that had been diagnosed by the Dep. of Pathology using HE&PAS staining. Immunohistochemical labeling was performed using antibodies against κ‐ and λ‐chains, IgA, IgD, IgM, IgG, and IgG4 and the staining intensity was independently evaluated by MCH and HPF. Results 3 specimens showed an increased immunoreactivity with anti‐IgG4 (2/3 intensive staining, 1/3 moderate staining). In addition, in these specimens there was only a slight expression of IgA, IgD and IgM. With regard to all specimens, plasma cells secretion of λ‐chains was insignificantly stronger than that of κ‐chains. Conclusion This being the first investigation of IgG4‐immunostaining in ocular pseudotumours, our results indicate a possible relationship between this disease entity and IgG4‐related sclerosing disease. Further investigations including IgG4 serum levels and a more detailed history regarding associated systemic disease is warranted.
Serous retinal detachment caused by a choroidal metastasis treated with subtenon triamcinolone injection
Authors: EGEA ESTOPINAN MC , PRIETO CALVO E , GUERRI MONCLUS N , RUIZ MORENO O 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Ocular metastases are becoming less and less rare. Choroidal metastases are recognized as the most common intraocular malignancy. Most ocular tumors metastasize from systemic origins in breast carcinoma in females, and bronchial carcinoma in males Methods CASE REPORT A 44 years‐old woman with an history of breast adenocarcinoma three years ago, who complained of visual disturbance of the left eye. On initial examination, the left best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0,3. Left fundoscopy revealed several elevated yellowish masses with peripapillary serous retinal detachment. The fluorescein retinal angiography showed a choroidal lesion highly suggestive of choroidal metastasis Results The patient was treated with subtenon triamcinolone intection. Five moths later the left BCVA was improved to 0.8. Funduscopy and optical coherence tomography confirmed reduction of edema Conclusion CONCLUSIONS Subtenon triamcinolone inyection reduced subretinal edema. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is useful in the follow‐up of choroidal metastasis after treatment. However, some limitations result from the choroidal location of the metastasis.
How does normal crowding affect visual acuity?
Authors: RAUSCHER F , HARLOW A , BARBUR J 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Clinical tests of visual acuity (VA) that employ multiple, neighbouring optotypes assume that visual 'crowding' at the fovea is negligible. Findings from recent studies suggest that crowding effects can affect high contrast acuity thresholds at the fovea. The absence of data to describe the distribution of crowding effects within 'normal' vision makes it difficult to establish when a measured reduction in VA (with crowding) can no longer be considered to be within the normal range and is therefore indicative of abnormal development or pathology. The aim of this study was to quantify the effects of crowding on VA in the normal population. Methods We measured acuity thresholds, with and without crowding, in central vision (i.e. at the fovea and at +/‐1 degree, +/‐1.5 degrees, and +/‐2 degrees) in 80 normal subjects with the age range of 29.3 +/‐10.7 years. The stimulus optotype was a Landolt ring of 100% luminance contrast presented either in isolation or together with four surrounding rings at a distance equal to 1.5 times the diameter of the stimulus, these parameters were selected on the basis of preliminary studies varying the spacing and the number of distracters. Results The threshold stimulus size for correct discrimination of gap orientation increased almost linearly with eccentricity, the presence of distracter rings caused a significant reduction in VA. Conclusion The statistical distribution of the differences between the two measures of VA provides the data needed to define the effects of crowding in “normal” vision. The template extracted from these data is clinically useful to identify those subjects that show abnormal sensitivity to crowding, i.e. amblyopia or early degenerative conditions/ disease.
Anterior segment biometrics – investigation of hyperopic eyes with Orbscan
Authors: JONUSCHEIT S , DOUGHTY MJ 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Assessment of the anterior segment by Orbscan in hyperopic eyes. Methods 30 normal right eyes (10 younger hyperopes, 10 older hyperopes, 10 younger emmetropes) were assessed with Orbscan II. Anterior chamber depth (ACD), horizontal corneal diameter (HCD), anterior (AK) and posterior corneal radius (PK), central (CCT) and peripheral corneal thickness (PCT, 4mm from centre) were analysed in the younger (≤ 45 years of age) and older hyperopic subjects (> 45 years). The data from the younger hyperopic group were also compared with the age‐matched emmetropic subjects. Results All data were normally distributed (p ≥ 0.403). For the 20 hyperopic subjects, the mean refractive error was +2.33 D (SD+/‐ 1.85 D), the mean ACD was 2.59 +/‐ 0.35 mm, with a mean HCD of 11.76 +/‐ 0.33 mm. The mean ACD was less in young hyperopes than in emmetropes (2.72 mm vs 2.91 mm). ACD was a further 10 % shallower in older hyperopes when compared to younger hyperopes, with the peripheral cornea also being slightly thinner (by about 4 %). No substantial differences between the younger and the older hyperopes were noted in HCD, PK, and CCT (p ≥ 0.094, independent samples t‐test), but younger hyperopes had on average a larger AK than older subjects, the difference being only just significant (p = 0.02). Conclusion These pilot studies indicate that most anterior segment biometrics are not substantially different between younger and older subjects with hyperopia. However, younger subjects had a slightly flatter anterior corneal radius and a thicker peripheral cornea, along with the expected (on average) lower ACD in hyperopic eyes and older subjects. Further studies are needed for refractive surgery procedures in older hyperopic patients.