bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Retinal photocoagulation and oxygenation
Authors: POURNARAS CJ 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose The clinical role of photocoagulation for the treatment of hypoxia related complications of retinal ischemic microangiopathies is well established. Methods Measurements of the partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) distribution within the the retina in various animal species using oxygen sensitive microelectrodes and evaluation of the retinal vessels reactivity by laser doppler velocimetry gave additional insights concerning photocoagulation mechanisms. Results The PO2 within the vitreo‐retinal interface is heterogeneous. Preretinal and trans‐retinal PO2 profiles indicate that the preretinal PO2 far away from vessels remain constant in all retinal areas. Intervascular intraretinal PO2 gradually decreases from both the vitreo‐retinal interface and the choroid towards the mid‐retina. Close to the pigment epithelium, it is significantly higher than at the vitreoretinal interface due to the much higher O2 supply provided by choroidal compaires to retinal circulation. Laser photocoagulation reduces the outer retina O2 consumption and allows O2 diffusion into the inner retina from the choroid raising the PO2 in the inner healthy retinal layers and in the preretinal intervascular normal areas. In this way laser treatment relieves retinal hypoxia in experimental branch vein occlusion (BRVO). In patients with diabetic retinopathy (DR), the retinal PO2 is higher in areas previously treated with laser. Following photocoagulation, the resulting reversal of hypoxia, the retinal vasculature constriction and the improvement of the regulatory response to hyperoxia all affect favorably both the retinal neovascularisation and macular edema. Conclusion Photocoagulation induces an increase of the inner retinal oxygenation reversing the retinal hypoxia and improving the regulatory response of the retinal vessels
Retinal and optic nerve oxygenation and carbonic anhydrase inhibition
Authors: LA COUR M , STEFANSSON E 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose To study the effects of carbonic anhydrase inhibition on porcine retinal and optic nerve oxygenation under physiological conditions and in experimental models of ischemia. Methods Polarographic oxygen electrodes were used to measure the oxygen tension in the vitreous 500 microns in front of the optic nerve and retina. Retinal ischemia was produced by diathermia of the superior arcade vein, producing a branch retinal vein occlusion, BRVO. Optic nerve ischemia was produced by intravenous administration of 100 mg Indomethacin intravenously. Results One week after induction of BRVO, the oxygen tension over BRVO affected retina was significantly decreased by 29%. Administration of the carbonic anhydrase inhibitor dorzolamide (500 mg) caused a significant increase in the oxygen tension over BRVO affected retina, and in effect restored this tension to normal values (n=5). Intravenous administration of 300 mg Indomethacin caused a decrease of optic nerve oxygen tension by 41%. Subsequent administration of 500 mg dorzolamide increased the optic nerve oxygen tension, albeit not to normal levels (n=6). Conclusion Carbonic anhydrase inhibition increases the oxygen tension in the retina and optic nerve. In BRVO affected retina, carbonic anhydrase inhibition restores oxygen tension to normal levels.
Noninvasive oximetry and glaucoma
Authors: OLAFSDOTTIR OB , HARDARSON SH , GOTTFREDSDOTTIR MS , HARRIS A , STEFANSSON E 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose To investigate retinal vessel oxygen saturation in relation to glaucomatous visual field damage. Specifically, we examined whether oxygen saturation in retinal blood vessels differs between regions corresponding to glaucomatous visual field defects compared to regions without visual field defects. Methods A spectrophotometric retinal oximeter (Oxymap ehf, Reykjavík, Iceland) was used to measure oxygen saturation in retinal arterioles and venules. The oximeter consists of a fundus camera, beam splitter, light filters and software that evaluate the oxygen saturation. The glaucomatous defect was estimated from a visual field test using the Octopus 1‐2‐3 perimeter. One eye in 13 individuals with open angle glaucoma with or without pseudoexfoliation syndrome was examined. Results In retinal areas with no visual field defect, the mean oxygen saturation in arterioles was 102±6% and 65±9%, (mean±SD) in venules. The arteriovenous difference was 37±10%. In retinal areas corresponding to visual field defects, the mean oxygen saturation in arterioles was significantly lower; 98±5% (p=0.04, paired t‐test, n=13). The venules were at 68±7% (p=0.3) and the arteriovenous difference was also significantly lower; 30±10% (p=0.04). Conclusion Arteriolar oxygen saturation and arteriovenous difference is statistically lower in areas with visual field defects compared to areas without visual field defects. This data suggests that visual field defects are associated with a reduction in retinal oxygen delivery and metabolism.
Retinal vessel oximetry using sequential and 'snapshot' hyperspectral imaging
Authors: MCNAUGHT A , HARVEY A , MUYO G , MORDANT D , ALLABOUD I , RITCHIE P 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Use of sequential, and 'snapshot' hyperspectral imagers to measure oxygen saturation in retinal vessels in normals, and examples of eye disease, eg glaucoma, and retinovascular diseases. Validation of estimated oximetry values using a model eye. Methods A sequential hyperspectral imager was constructed using a fundus camera with built‐in liquid‐crystal tuneable filter. Images of normals,and ocular disease are presented. A novel 'snapshot' hyperspectral imager is also described: this produces images in a single exposure. Validation of both devices using an artificial eye with capillary tubes containing human blood of known oxygen saturation, placed in front of an 'artificial retina' is described. The image analysis used to detect retinal vessels, and generate oximetric values is detailed. Results Both the sequential, and 'snapshot' retinal imagers produced accurate estimations of retinal vessel oxygen saturation, when compared with the model eye. Imaging of a small group of glaucoma eyes showed abnormally elevated venous oxygen saturation. In proliferative diabetic retinopathy, abnormally elevated venular saturation was found in areas of capillary loss on FFA. In vein occlusion, elevated venous saturation was found in eyes with ischaemic FFAs. Conclusion Both the sequential and 'snapshot' hyperspectral imagers deliver useful oximetric maps of the retina. The 'snapshot' device allows more rapid imaging. The elevated venular oxygen saturation seen in both glaucoma, and retinovascular disease, is perhaps evidence of reduced oxygen consumption in damaged inner retina in glaucoma, and/or vascular 'shunting' in retinovascular disease.
Need for training the trainers programme in harmonisation of education
Authors: HAWLINA M 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Brief introduction to this session will be given to outline the need for structured teaching activities that would focus on the contents (i.e. what to teach) and the teaching methodologies (i.e. how to teach) and methodologies of assessment of knowledge. Methods The mission of European Board of Ophthalmology is to harmonise training in Europe and the traditional scope of its activities include curriculum development, assessments (EBO Diploma examination), accreditation of training centers, exchange of residents an staff members and CME. Results "Training the trainers" programmes are recognised as one of important and rapidly developing disciplines, needed to optimise and harmonise the teaching processes, both in medical and surgical domains as well as in improving professionalism. Conclusion EBO has recognised the potential of TTT courses to advance and harmonise training in ophthalmology and will continue to foster and implement this knowledge to everyday teaching practices.
EBO curriculum development
Authors: CREUZOT C 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose To explain the aim of a curriculum development in European Board of Ophthalmology (EBO) Methods The aim of the European Board of Ophthalmology Diploma (EBOD) is to define a test of excellence in Ophthalmology designed to assess the knowledge and clinical skills requisite to the delivery of homogenous and high standard of Ophthalmology care in hospital. The curriculum workgroup belonging to the Education committee of the EBO aims to define a curriculum to help students during their training. It should provide students with a comprehensive uniformed list of topics of knowledge to stimulate students according to their different levels of training to follow their acquisition. It should be a guide for the students to share their time between different topics. Finally it should define good resources in relation with the curriculum considered as a “European dreamy library” designed for all ophthalmologists. Results Two steps were defined: one syllabus made of an exhaustive list of items with a list of resources to help the student to find good references. It should be useful for written exam to help students to define the topics to be known with an exhaustive point of view. The second one based on more detailed objectives is based on 3 different levels of objectives: the first one will define the pure knowledge (it is mainly dedicated to epidemiology, pathology, signs, risk factors, genetics …), the second one will be more advanced as it is dedicated to know how the student will… do something, interpret an exam, explain to the patient...The third one will provide the student with an appropriated list of references in relation with this specific topic. Conclusion The development of curriculum is a key role of EBO to define the objectives of learning and acquisition during training.
How to conduct a good viva voce?
Authors: ACLIMANDOS W 
Published: September 2009

AbstractThe Viva Voce exam is a very useful way of assessing candidates applied knowledge and their decision making process. It is crucial that examiners maximize the use of the limited time allocated in order to be able to make a fair assessment. Guidance will be given on exam conduction, time utilization and questioning technique. Advise will be given on fair marking and the importance of comprehensive completion of the score sheets.
How to teach residents to teach and to select proper residents for this goal
Authors: VASSILEVA P 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose It is very important to promote the development of the academic ophthalmologist. Part of the curriculum of residency program should be designed for training in the academic sphere. Methods Some residents demonstrate verbal and personal characteristics which show an ability to teach. Apart from professional knowledge and skills they possess the aptitude to communicate and emotionally involve the listener. The ophthalmic educators should actively seek out such trainees, focus on them, analyze and improve their case presentations and clinical reports. Results It is advisable to include these individuals in medical student education from the beginning of their residency. In the late phase of their education the level of responsibility can gradually be increased to teaching new residents and taking part in post‐graduate programs. Throughout their ophthalmic residency they have to be continuously encouraged to pursue academic realization. An important aspect of this stimulation should be regular participation in various ophthalmologic events – both nationally and abroad. Conclusion It is essential to motivate the selected trainees to read journals so as to keep track of new developments in ophthalmology, medicine and public health. The next most important step is active involvement in the process of manuscript creation and publication. Exposure to excellency in education through short visits to accredited training centers and participation in “training for trainers” symposia would be beneficial for understanding the value of good teaching.
Glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency and proliferative diabetic retinopathy in a Sardinian male population, Italy
Authors: PINNA A , CONTINI E , GIACOBONI M , CARTA A , SOLINAS G 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Purpose: The reported incidence of G6PD deficiency in Sardina, Italy, ranges from 10% to 15%. Hemizygous males have totally deficient erythrocytes. Evidence indicates that patients with G6PD deficiency are protected against ischemic heart and cerebrovascular disease, retinal vein occlusion, and nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy. The purpose of this study was to assess the incidence of G6PD deficiency in Sardinian men with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and ascertain whether G6PD deficiency may have a protective effect against this vascular disorder. Methods Methods: G6PD blood levels were measured in 524 men with PDR. 1262 non‐diabetic men undergoing cataract surgery served as controls. The Z test was used to assess differences in G6PD deficiency prevalence rates between groups. The odds ratio (OR) was used to evaluate the association between G6PD deficiency and PDR. Results Results: G6PD deficiency was found in 30 (5.7%) out of 524 patients with PDR and in 107 (8.5%) out of 1262 controls. Differences between PDR patients and controls were statistically significant (Z = 1.99, P<0.046). G6PD deficiency showed a statistically significant protective effect against PDR (OR: 0.66; 95% Confidence Interval: 0.43‐0.99). Conclusion Conclusions: The prevalence of G6PD deficiency in Sardinian men with PDR was lower than expected. Results suggest that G6PD deficient men have a lower risk of developing PDR.
Phenotype‐genotype correlations of TGFBI in Asian patients
Authors: CHAI SM , VITHANA E , MEHTA J , TAN D , TIN A 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Phenotypic‐genotype correlations of mutations in Tissue Growth factor beta‐inducible (TGFBI) responsive gene in Asian patients with Bowman’s membrane and stromal corneal dystrophies. Methods Twenty families with Bowman’s membrane and stromal corneal dystrophies presenting to a tertiary referral centre underwent visual acuity testing, and ocular examination with slit lamp biomicroscopy. Blood was collected for genetic analysis and the TGFBI gene was screened for possible mutations. Results There were 10 males and 10 females in this series, with10 Chinese, 4 Malays, 4 Indians and 2 Indonesians. The mean age was 48.9 years (range 9 ‐72). Five (out of 9) patients had the R555W mutation, while the other 4 had the R124H mutation. Of the 9 patients with lattice dystrophy, 2 had the H626R mutation while 5 had the R124C. One novel mutation Ala620Asp in a patient with lattice dystrophy was identified. Other mutations detected include R124L, R555Q and H572R .There was marked phenotypic variation amongst different TGFBI mutations. Conclusion The most common mutation amongst our patients was R555W and R124C. We describe the clinical features of a previously unreported TGFBI mutation. There was marked phenotypic variability in TGFBI mutations in Asian patients.
A novel mitochondrial ND5 gene mutation m.13042G>A in Leber hereditary optic neuropathy
Authors: PAJTLER A , STIRN‐KRANJC B , BRECELJ J , HAWLINA M 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose To report clinical and genetic characterization of two related patients with Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON). Methods A 20‐year old man was referred in September 2004 for acute, painless and severe visual loss in his left eye, and then three weeks later in the other. Visual acuity (VA) on presentation was 0.2 in his right eye and HM in his left eye. His 11‐year old cousin was referred in December 2006 for acute and painless visual loss on both eyes with VA of CF in his right eye and 0,3 on his left eye. Fundus examination in both patients revealed engorged optic disc with telangectatic and tortuous vessels with no leakage on fluorescein angiography. MRI of brain was normal in both patients. There were loss of N95 vawe in PERG and abnormal VEP suggesting retinal ganglion cell loss and optic nerve disease. In first patient, VA decreased to HM on both eyes in few months and in 4,5 year follow up didn’t improve.In second patient, VA decreased to 0.001 on right eye and 0.04 on left eye in 2,5 year follow up. Results Genetic tests of the mitochondrial(MT) DNA for three most common mutations (m.11778 G> A, m.3460 G>A, m.14484 T>C) responsible for LHON were negative in both patients. Use of Mito‐Chip 2 didn't reveal any mutations,whilst sequencing the entire MT‐genome in the first patient revealed mutation m.13042G>A (homoplasmy) in gene MT‐ND5; for second patient sequencing for this mutation is in process. Conclusion This mutation has not been previously described in association with LHON and was not mentioned in mtDB or mtSNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) database (DB). The mutation is likely to be causative of the disease since no other mutations were found in MT‐genome in a patient with typical clinical presentation of LHON.
Severe ocular trauma cases: types and incidence
Authors: STOJANOVIC N , TSOLAKI F , TACHIAOS P 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Presentation of severe traumatic ocular injuries during the year 2008 at Ophthalmology Department of Hippokration General Hospital in Thessaloniki Methods The study included patients who came at our clinic with severe ocular trauma and needed admission for observation and/or surgical treatment (total number 26) Results Included cases were: I) 9 (34,6%) cases of blunt trauma (4 with hemophthalmia and 5 with hyphaema), only 2 needed surgical evacuation. II) 6 (23,1%) corneal penetrating traumas with intraocular foreign body, all of which surgically treated, with mild visual impairment in 3 cases. III) 8 (30,7%) cases of corneal penetrating trauma without intraocular foreign body, 6 surgically treated, with good visual outcome in 6 cases, IV) 3 (11,6%) cases of scleral laceration without intraocular foreign body, all surgically treated, 1 of them with severe visual impairment Conclusion Severe traumatic ocular injuries are frequent at Ophthalmology Department of Hippokration General Hospital (most frequent blunt trauma followed by corneal penetrating trauma) and with timely treatment the majority of cases had good visual outcome.
Ocular features and management in the mucopolysaccaridoses
Authors: PINELLO L , DE BELVIS V , MAZZAROLO M , SCARPA M 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the ocular findings and the visual outcome in a group of patients with mucopolysaccaridoses(MPS) followed and treated with new therapeutic options. Methods 18 pazients with MPS (9 males and 9 females) were examinated: 3 cases with MPS type I, 4 with MPS type II,7 with MPS type III, 1 with MPS type IV and 3 with MPS type VI. The patients underwent an ophthalmological assessment with : visual acuity (with Teller Acuity Cards, Lea Symbols o letter chart, depending on patient age or degree of cohoperation), slit‐lamp examination, fundus ophthalmoscopy, intraocular pressure, refractometry, electroretinography and eye echography. Results The mean follow‐up was 48 months (ranged from 3 to 190 months).The mean age at first ophtalmologic evaluation was 6,9 years ( ranged from 1 to 20 years). 8 case presented progressive corneal clouding, 5 case retinal pigmentary degeneration, and 1 papilledema. Visual acuity worsened severely in 3 cases with MPS type I: 1 case from 10/10 to 5/10, 1 case from 5/10 to 1/10; in another case visual acuity decreased to 1/20 and underwent to corneal transplantation with good visual outcome (RE 5/10 and LE 7/10). The other cases showed slightly reduction of visual function. 3 patients had ocular hypertension and were treated with hypotensive eye drops. 8 patients underwent enzyme replacement therapy. Conclusion The mucopolysaccaridoses(MPS) are rare systemic disorders caused by accumulation of glycosaminoglycans. Ophthalmological manifestations are frequent in MPS, particularly in MPS I, II and VI, characterized by corneal clouding, retinal distrophy and blindness.Regular ophthalmic monitoring to determine disease progression and management of complications are necessary as a part of multidisciplinary approach.
Butaprost, a prostaglandin EP2 receptor agonist, counteracts the negative effect of serum deprivation to retinal ganglion cells
Authors: KANG K , OSBORNE NN 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose To investigate the neuroprotective role of butaprost an EP2 receptor agonist. Methods Cultures of transformed retinal ganglion cells (RGC‐5 cells) were maintained in normal medium or medium that lacked serum for 48 hours. During this period butaprost was added in some cases to the medium. The cultures were then subjected to various methodologies (MTT‐assay, WST‐assay, APOPercentage analysis, TUNEL, DHE staining, LDH assay, flow cytometric anaylsis and immunohistochemistry) so as to characterize their nature of survival. The level of cAMP was also measured in some cases by ELISA. Results Functional EP2 receptors in RGC‐5 cells were demonstrated by immunohistochemistry, western blot and by the generation of cAMP caused by the presence of butaprost. Serum deprivation resulted in RGC‐ 5 cells dying by apoptosis, indicated by APOPercentage™, TUNEL and flow cytometric assays. Butaprost (1 or 10 μM) added 30 minutes after the onset of serum deprivation significantly reduced cell death caused by serum deprivation. Conclusion The EP2 agonist butaprost significantly attenuates apoptosis caused by serum deprivation. This data supports the view that EP2 agonists might have a role to play in the treatment of glaucoma given that it is known to lower IOP significantly.
Choroidal blood flow regulation during a latanoprost‐induced decrease in intraocular pressure
Authors: BOLTZ A , FUCHSJAEGER‐MAYRL G , LASTA M , PEMP B , SCHMIDL D , GARHOFER G , SCHMETTERER L 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose Blood flow regulation in the human choroid appears to be complex. We have recently shown that choroidal blood flow is better regulated during exercise‐induced changes in choroidal blood flow than during a suction‐cup‐induced increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). In the present study we hypothesized that choroidal blood flow regulation may be altered during a latanoprost‐induced decrease in IOP. Methods In this prospective, balanced, placebo‐controlled parallel group study, 18 healthy male volunteers were included. Choroidal blood flow regulation was assessed using laser Doppler flowmetry during an artificial increase in intraocular pressure using a suction cup and during a 6 minutes squatting period. Results were compared before drug administration and after 14 days of topical instillation of either latanoprost or placebo. Results Neither systemic blood pressure nor choroidal blood flow at baseline was altered by latanoprost. As expected, latanoprost did, however, reduce IOP. The regulation of choroidal blood flow was altered by latanoprost with a wider range of regulation compared to placebo treatment (p < 0.05). Conclusion The present data indicate that administration of latanoprost improves choroidal blood flow regulation. Since latanoprost did not alter baseline choroidal blood flow this effect may be related to the reduction in IOP.