bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Expression of stem cell factor/c‐kit signaling pathway components in diabetic fibrovascular epiretinal membranes
Authors: ABU EL ASRAR A , STRUYF S , OPDENAKKER G , VAN DAMME J , GEBOES K 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose Stem cell factor (SCF)/c‐kit signaling promotes recruitment of endothelial progenitor cells and contributes to ischemia‐induced new vessel formation. We investigated the expression of the components of this pathway including c‐kit, SCF, granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), and the chemokine receptor CXCR4 in proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) epiretinal membranes. Methods Membranes from 8 patients with active PDR and 12 patients with inactive PDR were studied by immunohistochemistry. Results Blood vessels expressed c‐kit, SCF, G‐CSF, eNOS, and CXCR4 in 18, 15, 19, 20 and 20 out of 20 membranes, respectively. Significant correlations were detected between number of blood vessels expressing CD34 and number of blood vessels expressing SCF (r=0.463; p=0.04), G‐CSF (r=0.87; p<0.001), eNOS (r=0.864; p<0.001), and CXCR4 (r=0.864; p<0.001). Stromal cells expressed c‐kit, SCF, eNOS, and CXCR4 in 19, 15, 20, and 20 membranes, respectively. The numbers of blood vessels expressing CD34 (p=0.005), c‐kit (p=0.03), G‐CSF (p=0.007), eNOS (p=0.001), and CXCR4 (p=0.018), and stromal cells expressing c‐kit (p=0.013), SCF (p<0.001), eNOS (p=0.048), and CXCR4 (p=0.003) were significantly higher in active membranes than in inactive membranes. Conclusion SCF/c‐kit signaling might contribute to neovascularization in PDR.
No retinal apoptosis in mouse model of Opa1 dominant optic atrophy despite visual loss
Authors: VOTRUBA M , PIECHOTA M , TAYLOR E , POWELL K , DAVIES V 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose Autosomal dominant optic atrophy (ADOA) due to mutations in OPA1 is a slowly progressive optic neuropathy. OPA1 is ubiquitously expressed and plays a key role in mitochondrial fusion. Heterozygous Opa1 mutant mice (B6;C3‐Opa1Q285STOP), with previously reported visual defects and optic nerve changes on EM, were assessed for evidence of cellular effects and retinal sequelae. Methods The level and processing of Opa1 were studied by Western blot. Membrane potential was assessed by JC‐1 in isolated mitochondria. Mitochondrial morphology was investigated using Mitotracker staining on E13.5 mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFS). End‐organ evidence for apoptosis was explored on TUNEL stained retinal sections. Results The heterozygous mutation leads to ca. 50% reduction in Opa1 protein in mitochondria. Despite this there is no statistically significant reduction in the average mitochondrial membrane potential in the retina and brain by 5 months of age. Although Opa1 +/‐ MEFS demonstrate a 15% increase in the number of cells showing mitochondrial fragmentation their growth and survival characteristics after oxidative stress were not significantly affected. There was no increased apoptosis in retinal sections from mutant animals. Conclusion A 50% reduction in Opa1 protein, capable of causing a defect in mitochondrial morphology in MEFS, in the presence of visual dysfunction and morphological changes on electron microscopy in the optic nerve, nevertheless does not appear to lead to a significant increase in apoptosis in retina. This suggests that dysfunction of RGCs rather than overt loss may be important in the pathophysiology of the disease.
Legal blindness in Rethymnon: causes and prevalence
Authors: CHRISTODOULAKIS EMM , VRACHNIDIS ST , KRIKONIS TH , GODOLIAS ST , CHLIVEROS K , TROULI N 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose To report all cases with legal blindness in the prefecture of Rethymnon Crete, in the period of February 2009 – May 2010. Legal blindness in Greece is defined as best corrected visual acuity in both eyes less than 1/20 and has several social and economical issues. Methods Retrospective analysis of all cases presented at the external office of department of Ophthalmology of the General Hospital of Rethymnon, Crete, Greece. Social Services in Greece, accept certificates of blindness only from hospitals of the same prefecture, so our cases presented here, are all the cases of the Rethymnon prefecture for this period of time. Results In the period 2/2/2009 ‐ 30/5/2010 presented 107 patients asked for certificate of blindness, in the external Office of Ophthalmology department. 60 patients had best corrected visual acuity less than 1/20, 36 women and 24 men, with average age 82.6 years (std 12.7 years, 9 ‐ 95 years). Age‐related macular degeneration (ARMD) was the cause of blindness in 21 patients, glaucoma in 13 patients, diabetic retinopathy combined with ARMD in 4 patients; other causes were degenerative myopia, retinal occlusive disease, ocular trauma, retinoblastoma, endophthalmitis, optic nerve head atrophy or combinations of previous diseases. Conclusion Age‐related macular degeneration followed by glaucoma are the most common causes of legal blindness in the population of prefecture of Rethymnon
What's new in neuroprotection
Authors: WHEELER L , BURKE J 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose Vision loss is a an important patient concern in glaucoma and retinal diseases. This talk will update recent findings with alpha‐2 agonists and NMDA antagonists in light of recent clinical experience in neuroprotection. Alpha‐2 agonists have been shown to be neuroprotective in many animal models by mechanisms thought to enhance neuronal survival. The physiological role of alpha‐2 receptors is still an emerging area of research in the retina and optic nerve. Methods Recent experiments suggest that alpha‐2 agonists can improve retinal performance in laboratory animals. The new methods to demonstrate this will be presented. How is this different than neuroprotection? Or is it? Results A number of ideas are being pursued to explain the observation of improved retinal performance: increased axonal transport in rats; changes in down stream receptor signalling, etc. Conclusion Understanding the mechanism(s)of action for how alpha‐2 agonists affect neuroportection and retinal performance may lead to new medical therapies and the role of these receptors in the physiology and function of the eye.
Commercial interest
Phenotype/genotype evolution in corneal embryologic malformations
Authors: NISCHAL KK 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose To describe the evolution of a clinically useful classification of corneal developmental anomalies which has also allowed more accurate phenotype/genotype correlation. Methods The use of clinical documentation using anterior segment photography, normal ultrasound of the eyeball, and high frequency ultrasound and where available histology of host tissue has allowed detailed phenotypes to be developed . Intraoperative recordings of phenotype have also been noted. Genotyping of specific patterns groupings of corneal developmental anomaly phenotypes. Retrospective analysis of clnical outcome with or without surgical intervention. Results Corneal developmental anomalies are best considered in terms of primary corneal disease and secondary corneal disease. The former includes dystophies ( CHED, PPCD and X‐L ECD) , corneal dermoids and isolated sclerocornea ( CNA 1 and 2 ).Secondary corneal disease includes secondary to, iridotrabecular anomalies ( eg congenital glaucoma, aniridia, axenfeld ‐rieger anomaly), kerato‐irido‐lenticular dysgenesis ( iridolenticular adhesions( Peters type I), failure of lens to form,separate or move away from the cornea). Conclusion Using this classification prognosis for intervention can be shown to be mor successful in primary corneal developmental anomalies. Also by considering groups of patients with similar disease eg primary aphakia, appropriate genotyping can be done eg FOXE3 analysis for children with primary aphakia . More acccurate phenotype allows better clinical classification and ultimately better genotyping of corneal developmental anomalies
Optical coherence tomography image grading agreement between observers in neovascular age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: MENKE MN , KORDIC H , KURZ‐LEVIN M , STURM V , KNECHT PB 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose Time‐domain optical coherence tomography (TD‐OCT) became an important tool for the management of neovascular age‐related macular degeneration (AMD). Recently, spectral‐domain OCT (SD‐OCT) became available with improved image resolution and scanning speed. The purpose of this study was to compare inter‐observer agreement of SD‐OCT versus TD‐OCT image grading in patients with exudative AMD. Methods Thirty eyes with neovascular AMD were examined with 2 different OCT models. Three observers graded fast macular scans (FMS), cross hair scans (CHS) (both Stratus™ OCT), volume scans (VS), and radial line scans (RLS) (both Spectralis™ OCT) for the presence of various morphologic pathologies. Inter‐observer agreement between OCT models was assessed by calculating intra‐class correlation coefficients (ICC). Results In Stratus™ OCT highest agreement was found for subretinal fluid (ICC: 0.79), and in Spectralis™ OCT for intraretinal cysts (IRC) (ICC: 0.93). Spectralis™ OCT showed superior agreement for IRC and epiretinal membranes (ERM) (ICCStratus™ : for IRC 0.61; for ERM 0.56; ICCSpectralis™ : for IRC 0.93; for ERM 0.84). Lowest agreement was found for subretinal fibrosis (FIB) with an ICCStratus™ of 0.65, and an ICCSpectralis™ of 0.52. Spectralis™ Conclusion Increased image resolution of Spectralis™ OCT did not markedly improve the inter‐observer agreement except for grading intraretinal cysts and epiretinal membranes.
Vitreomacular adhesion in exudative age macular degeneration
Authors: BERROD JP , HAOUACHE G , HUBERT I 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose To evaluate posterior vitreomacular adhesion in exudative age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) using Stratus optical coherence tomography (OCT). Methods Retrospective observational consecutive case series about 50 eyes of 50 patients (age 57‐91 years) treated for choroidal neovacularisation (CNV) and examined with ( OCT). Vitreomacular adhesion was defined when the posterior hyaloid line was attached to inner retina . Results A vitreomacular adhesion was found in 27 eyes (54%). The location of vitreomacular adhesion was observed in all cases over the area of the CNV. Conclusion Vitreomacular adhesion may promote exsudative age macular degeneration. A prospective study with spectral OCT could confirm these findings. Vitrectomy or pharmacologic vitreolysis could be considered for the treatment or the prevention of exudative AMD.
Lutein supplementation improves scotopic sensitivity recovery in AMD
Authors: MAKRIDAKI M , BERENDSCHOT TTJM , VAN DER VEEN RLP , CARDEN D , PARRY NRA , MURRAY IJ 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose To monitor photopic and scotopic sensitivity recovery during a one year period of supplementation with lutein (L). Methods A two centred, placebo controlled study of L supplementation was conducted in Maastricht, The Netherlands and Manchester, UK. L capsules (10mg ester), or placebo (P) were taken by AMD patients daily. There were 29 patients in the L group and 31 patients in the P group. Sensitivity recovery functions and MPOD (Macular Pigment Optical Density) were measured at baseline and at 4, 8 and 12 months. MPOD was measured with a flicker‐based method. Sensitivity recovery following a bleach was obtained by recording visual thresholds (white 1 deg target, nasal eccentricity 11 deg). Results In the L group, there was a mean increase of MPOD from 0.40 (0.17) at baseline to 0.54 (0.21), at visit 4, SDs in brackets (p< 0.0001). In the P group, MPOD was 0.47 (0.19) at baseline and 0.49 (0.19) at visit 4. The mean rod recovery rate for the L group was 3.1 dB/min (1.08) at baseline that increased to 3.65 (0.31) at visit 4. This was statistically significant (p =0.17). The mean rod recovery rate for the P group was reduced from 3.3 (1.3) to 3.1 (1.35), (NS). The rod recovery time for the L group reduced from 15.9 minutes (7.9) to 14.5 minutes (8.4), NS. In the P group, rod recovery time increased from 14.3 (7.7) to 16.8 minutes (p= 0.021). For cone recovery or rod‐cone break time no significant differences between baseline and visit 4 in either the L group or the P group were found. Conclusion Rod‐based sensitivity recovery kinetics are improved after the augmentation of MPOD with lutein. In patients in whom there is no increase in MP a significant increase in rod‐based sensitivity recovery time can be expected.
Corneal biomechanics in age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: CELLINI M , PAZZAGLIA A , STROBBE E , GIZZI C , BALDUCCI N , CAMPOS EC 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose To compare the corneal hysteresis (CH) and the corneal resistance was increase force (CRF) of patients with age‐related macular degeneration (ARMD) and control subjects. Methods The CH and the CRF were compared among 20 patients with ARMD (ARMD group: 10 with neovascular and 10 with non‐neovascular ARMD) aged from 54 yrs to 78 yrs (68.9±15.9 yrs) and 20 age‐matched control patients (control group). In ARMD and control group the eye's axial length was: 23.14 ±0.95 mm vs. 23.04 ±1.16 mm (p<0.715) and the corneal thickness was: 555.1±3.08 vs. 558±4.14 µ (p<0.274). The CH and CRF values were achieved by ocular response analyzer (ORA). Results We found a statistical significant difference in the CRF between patients with ARMD and control subjects (ARMD group 11.13±1.30 vs. control group: 9.82±1.37; p<0.001) was found. A difference, but no stastical significant was found also for CH index between patients with AMD and control subjects (ARMD group: 10.15±1.25 vs. control group: 10.02±1.68 mm/hg; p<0.376). When we examined separately the two subgroups of patients with ARMD (neovascular and nonneovascular ARMD), the average CH were higher in patients with neovascular AMD compared with patients with non‐neovascular ARMD (neovascular ARMD group: 10.77±1.00 vs. non‐neovascular ARMD 10.17±1.08; p<0.074) and CRF was also increased in neovascular ARMD (neovascular ARMD group: 11.86±0.99 vs. non‐neovascular ARMD 10.88±1.37; p<0.032). Conclusion Despite the limitations placed by the small sample of the examined cases, patients with ARMD had a statistical significant increase of CRF compared with healthy control group. Furthermore we found the same statistical significant increase of CRF in neovascular ARMD patients compared with non‐neovascular ARMD
Associations of early age‐related macular degeneration with ocular and general parameters. The Central India Eyes and Medical Study
Authors: LIBONDI T , JONAS JB , NANGIA V , KULKARNI M , GUPTA R , KHARE A 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose To assess associations between age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) and ocular and general parameters. Methods The Central India Eye and Medical Study, a population‐based study performed in rural Central India, included 4711 subjects (aged 30+ years) out of 5885 eligible subjects (response rate: 80.1%). Fundus photographs were assessed using the Wisconsin Age‐Related Maculopathy Grading system. Results Fundus photographs were available for 4542 (96.4%) subjects. Early AMD was present in 215/4542 subjects (4.7±0.3%), and late AMD was detected in 8/4542 (0.2±0.03%) subjects. After adjustment for age, prevalence of AMD was significantly associated with hyperopic refractive error (P=0.001), shorter axial length (P=0.01), and higher corneal refractive power (P=0.02).AMD was not significantly associated with blood pressure, serum concentration of cholesterol, glycosylated haemoglobin Hb1Ac, high‐density lipoproteins and postprandial glucose, gender, level of education, any parameter of smoking, alcohol consumption, psychiatric depression or of daily activities, anterior chamber depth, lens thickness, intraocular pressure, size of the optic disc, neuroretinal rim and parapapillary atrophy, nor amount of nuclear cataract and status after cataract surgery.. If the statistical analysis was adjusted for age and refractive error, age‐related macular degeneration was marginally significantly associated with a low intake of fruits (P=0.06). Conclusion Hyperopia (and short axial length) besides age was the single most important associated factor for AMD in adult Indians.
The influence of cardiovascular diseases on the development of neovascular AMD
Authors: NAPORA KJ , OBUCHOWSKA I , MARIAK Z 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose Identification of cardiovascular risk factors for neovascular form of age‐related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods 61 patients were studied prospectively, 44 women and 17 men, aged from 57 to 85 years old, treated at the Department of Ophthalmology of the Medical University of Bialystok in the years 2008‐2009 due to AMD. Each patient was given a full eye examination, their blood pressure was measured a few times and their glucose or lipid metabolism was labeled. AMD was diagnosed on the basis of fluorescein angiography and OCT. The patients were divided into two groups: the dry form of AMD ‐ 24 people and the wet form of AMD – 37 people. Groups were compared in terms of the following factors: age, sex, a history of coronary heart disease, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, a history of smoking. The results were statistically analysed using the Fisher test. Results It was found that people with wet AMD more often have unregulated blood pressure, impaired lipid and glucose metabolism, are more often active or passive smokers compared to patients with dry AMD; the differences are statistically significant (p<0.05). The ratio of women to men in the group with neovascular AMD was 4.4:3 and the dry form was 11:1 (p<0.05). In both groups there were no statistically significant differences regarding patient’s age and history of coronary heart disease. Conclusion 1. Unregulated blood pressure, abnormal lipid and glucose metabolism and smoking may pose potential risk factors for neovascular AMD. 2. Men more often have the wet rather than the dry form of AMD. Scientific work financed from the funds for science in 2009‐2011.
Episcleritis following intravitreal ranibizumab injection for exudative age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: PRIETO CALVO E , GUERRI MONCLUS N , EGEA ESTOPINAN C , FERRER NOVELLA E 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose Ranibizumab is a recombinant, humanized, monoclonal antibody antigen‐binding fragment that neutralizes all biologically active forms of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and is effectively used in the treatment of neovascular age‐related macular degeneration (AMD). Ocular and systemic side effects may be encountered after its intravitreal injection. We report the importance of provide information for patients about the alarm signs and when to seek urgent attention from their doctor. Methods Prospective, interventional, single case report. A 79‐year‐old male patient controlled to our department for exudative AMD since 1997. The process started in the right eye (RE), which had been treated by argon laser photocoagulation. Twelve years later, visual acuity in his left eye (LE) decreased to 5/10 and ophthalmoscopy showed a subretinal macular haemorrhage corresponding with an occult choroidal neovascular membrane in fluorescein angiography image. In this time, we decided to proceed with intravitreal ranibizumab treatment in the LE. Results Two days following de second injection, the patient is referred to our department for ocular pain with severe episcleral inflammation, located at the injection site. Not visual loss was documented. A good response to topical steroids was obtained, and so, one month later, the third injection is performed with no complications. Conclusion Intravitreal ranibizumab therapy is associated with various complications, the most of which are related with the injection procedure. However ranibizumab´s benefits are greater than its risks, for the treatment of exudative AMD.
Retrospective analysis of ranibizumab therapy
Authors: ISLAM N , PEDEN R , SALOM R 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose Anti‐VEGF clinical trials have shown stabilisation and improvement in visual acuity following intravitreal Ranibizumab (Lucentis) injections. Audit to evaluate the efficacy & safety of Ranibizumab injections in wet macular degeneration patients recruited over 18 months (Oct 07–Mar 09) with 12 months follow‐up Methods Retrospective case note review of 121 patients (130 eyes) who had undergone intravitreal anti‐VEGF treatment for wet macular degeneration using solely povidone‐iodine, without topical antibiotic cover or prophylaxis. Patients were divided by treatment type (Lucentis alone (Groups A and B) and other/mixed antiVEGF treatment(Group C)) and initiation date Oct 07‐Dec 08 (Group B and C)& Jan‐Mar 09(Group A) Results 78 eyes of 75 patients received solely Lucentis.60 eyes of 57 patients completed 12 month follow‐up. Classic Predominantly Classic Minimal Classic Occult Group A 2 2 14 18 Group B 5 5 6 26 Group C 7 7 10 29 Total 14 14 30 73 Table 1: Lesion sub‐types in the 3 study groups Queen’s King’s MARINA ANCHOR PRONTO n 60 184 240 139 40 Mean VA improvement +4.0 +4.5 +7.2 +11.3 +9.3 Mean number of injections 6.6 6.0 12 12 5.6 Table 2: Comparison with King's(London)/MARINA/ANCHOR/PRONTO studies Mean VA Change at 3 Months (logMAR letters) Mean VA Change at 1 year (logMAR letters) Mean number of injections in the first year Group A (n=29) +3.5 +5.5 7.5 Group B (n=31) +6.7 +2.6 5.7 Group C (n=47) +4.3 +2.7 7.2 Table 3: Mean VA improvements in 3 study groups. Serious Adverse Effects:No cases of endophthalmitis or retinal detachment. Conclusion Mean visual acuity change has improved markedly alongside an increased mean number of injections & a reduced delay in treatment initiation. Earlier and sustained intervention provides better outcomes.
Intravitreal injection of triamcinolone combined with bevacizumab for choroidal neovascularization associated with retinal pigment epithelial detachment in age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: CHEBIL A , KORT F , BOULADI M , BOURAOUI R , CHAABANI L , EL MATRI L 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose To discuss the effect and outcome of a combined intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) injection with intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) in treating choroidal neovascularization (CNV) associated with retinal pigment epithelial detachment (PED) in age‐related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods Ten eyes (10 patients) with CNV associated with PED in AMD were treated by IVT (4 mg/ 0.1 ml) followed by a IVB (1.25 mg/0.05 ml) one week later. Indications for retreatment by combined injection was defined as persistent DEP with subretinal and/or intraretinal fluid on OCT. Patients with flattening of the DEP and activity leakage demonstrated by OCT underwent subsequent IVT. Results The mean duration of follow up was 12 months (6 to 16 months). BCVA at baseline averaged 20/63 (range 20/200 to 20/32) and 20/58 (range 20/125 to 20/32) at the end of follow‐up. FA showed no leakage from the lesion in 6 eyes at the end of follow‐up examination and three eyes showed a decrease in leakage from that seen at baseline. Average central foveal thickness was (CFT) 366.9 microns (range 253 to 388) at baseline and 212.1 microns (range 168 to 245) at the end. the PED had disappeared in six eyes, while in the remaining four they had decreased in size at the end. The subretinal fluid had disappeared in all patients at the end. The combined treatment was repeated in 6 eyes and the number of IVB after combined injection ranged from one to three. No RPE tear appeared during follow‐up. Conclusion combined IVB and IVT therapy seems to be an effective and safe therapeutical procedure to treat CNV associated with large PED in AMD.