bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Management of a severe Graves’ orbitopathy
Authors: FERNANDEZ PEREZ S , PUEYO ROYO V , CALVO PEREZ P , EGEA ESTOPINAN MC , GIL ARRIBAS L , DE LA MATA PEREZ G , IDOIPE CORTA M , GUERRI MONCLUS N , FERNANDEZ TIRADO FJ 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose A case report of a 44‐year‐old woman with severe graves’ orbitopathy treated with high‐dose intravenous glucocorticoids, radiotherapy and bilateral orbital decompression by endoscopic surgery. Methods In the initial examination the corrected visual acuity was 0.2 in the right eye and 0.1 in the left eye, exophthalmos of 25 mm in both eyes, ophthalmoplegia mild to moderate ,lower keratitis, ocular hypertension (23 mm Hg in the right eye and 28 mm Hg in the left eye) despite treatment. She was treated with intravenous boluses of methylprednisolone 1g/day/3 days with clinical improvement although there was reactivation of her graves’ orbitopathy. She received orbital radiotherapy using a cobalt‐60 radiation source (total dose 20 Gy) after which, the patient experienced clinical improvement. Due to the large corneal involvement (exposure keratitis) of both eyes and the patient's clinical deterioration, it was decided to carry out orbital decompression by endoscopic surgery urgently. Results Ten months after surgery the patient has a corrected visual acuity of 0.7 in the right eye and 0.9 in the left eye. Proptosis, eyelid retraction and exposure keratopathy have disappeared, although walleye remain lower in both eyes. Conclusion The treatment of choice for moderate‐to‐severe and active Graves’ orbitopathy is high‐dose intravenous glucocorticoids. When there is no response, orbital radiotherapy is an appropriate treatment option. Orbital decompression is a very successful surgery to correct exophthalmos and improve edema taking place in the not active orbitopathy as rehabilitative or active in cases not responding to any medical therapy.
Changes in the retinal nerve fiber layer in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: ASCASO FJ , RUIZ DE GOPEGUI E , IÑIGUEZ C , DEL BUEY MA , CRISTOBAL BESCOS JA 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose To evaluate by Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) the presence of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) damage in patients suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods Prospective study of the peripapillary RNFL measured by Stratus OCT in 116 eyes from 58 patients divided in four groups: non optic neuritis MS patients (non ON‐MS): 35 eyes; optic neuritis MS patients (ON‐MS): 20 eyes; fellow eye optic neuritis MS patients (FE‐ON‐MS): 29 eyes; healthy controls (HC): 32 eyes. Results The peripapillary RNFL thickness is lowered not only in eyes from patients with MS and ON (81'6±20'6µm), but also in their fellow eye 92'9±13'6µm), and even in eyes from MS patients without previous history of ON (101'0±11'2µm). p< 0,05, ANOVA test. Conclusion OCT proved to be a useful device in the diagnosis of axonal damage in patients with MS.
Immunohistochemistry and Western blot methodologies to evaluate neuroprotective agents in models of retinopathies
Authors: THERMOS K , GIANNOGONAS P , KOULAKIS E , KOKONA D , MASTRODIMOU N , KIAGIADAKI F , CHARALAMPOPOULOS I , GRAVANIS A 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose Many retinopathies that lead to visual loss and blindness are characterized by neovascularization and neural retinal defects, such as a marked loss in retinal neurons and an increase in apoptosis. There are no therapeutic agents for the treatment of the neurodegenerative component of retinal disease. Immunohistochemistry and western blot methodologies were employed to determine retinal viability and to elucidate the putative neuroprotective properties of new therapeutic targets, in animal models of retinopathy (chemical ischemia, excitotoxicity, STZ). Methods To assay retinal viability, the following antibodies for retinal markers were employed in immunohistochemical assays: PKC (rod bipolar cells), ChAT, bNOS, TH (cholinergic‐, nitric oxide synthetase‐, and dopamine‐ containing amacrine cells, respectively), calbindin‐containing horizontal, amacrine and cone bipolar cells, NFL and MAP1 (ganglion axons and cells, respectively). Antibodies against various pro‐survival or pro‐death molecules (western blots), as well as the TUNEL‐assay, were employed to examine retinal apoptosis and neuroprotection. Results Loss of retinal marker immunoreactivity was differentially observed according to the animal model employed. The neuroprotection of specific retinal neurons by the new therapeutic targets examined (somatostatin and neurosteroids) reflect the existence of protein substrates involved in the mechanism of action of these molecules. Conclusion Immunohistochemical and western blot analysis techniques provide important information on the retinal damage induced by ischemic insults and the neuroprotection afforded by new targets of retinal therapeutics.
Biochemical methods and X‐ray based imaging strategies to evaluate retinal glucose metabolism
Authors: POITRY‐YAMATE C 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose Evaluating the coordinated energy metabolism between neurons and glia in situ as a means to evaluate retinal glucose metabolism and function. Methods The imaging of metals conjugated to sugar substrates or metals linked to compounds that affect glycolysis were detected using synchrotron‐based low and high energy x‐ray fluorescence imaging. X‐ray fluorescence maps with <1 micron resolution were placed in a morphological context using simultaneously acquired transmission images of the preparation. Spectrophotometric enzymatic microassays with high selectivity and sensitivity were performed to confirm the intracellular incorporation and metabolism of the delivered substances. Results In the dark‐adapted rat retina, glucose transport and phosphorylation were specifically localized to the Müller glia in situ and an activated glycolysis was not measurable in neurons. Glial glucose metabolism was moreover coordinated with excitatory synaptic transmission in the mid to outer retina. Conclusion Given that oxygen metabolism predominates in neurons and that oxidative metabolism is fuelled by glucose metabolism, fuel transport obligatorily occurs from glia to neurons in intact healthy retina. Combining x‐ray techniques with micron to submicron resolution and biochemical microassays with nM sensitivity offers: (1) a unique experimental strategy to evaluate retinal and cerebral energy metabolism and compartmentation at the cellular level in situ; and (2) is important to the interpretation of images using in vivo functional imaging techniques in the clinic.
The fundamentals of visual acuity measurement
Authors: CHISHOLM CM 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose To provide the background to the symposium on visual acuity and its measurement Methods The parameters employed to quantify visual performance will be defined. Commonly used measurement techniques ranging from traditional letter charts to psychophysical computer‐based programmes, will be described and compared, with reference to the peer‐reviewed literature in this area. The issues of accuracy and repeatability will be considered in the context of the clinical setting and scientific studies. Results Letter charts are most commonly employed to assess visual performance because of their ease of use for both the patient and assessor, but they suffer from design limitations. Psychophysical procedures are more flexible and can improve repeatability, but are time consuming and fatigue can start to play a part. Such techniques are generally more suited to the research environment. High contrast visual acuity measurement can give a misleading impression regarding the quality of vision. This is particularly the case for subjects with impaired optical quality relating to an increase in intraocular light scatter and/or increased higher order aberrations. Assessment in the contrast domain is essential to build up a fuller picture. Conclusion The assessment of visual quality requires an understanding of test design and limitations. The method used should be chosen to suit the aims of the work and partly depends on whether it is taking place in a clinical practice setting or as part of a research study.
Snellen or logMAR in clinical ophthalmology
Authors: SPILEERS W 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose The question remains if visual acuity measurements in clinical ophthalmology should use the well known Snellen notation or instead should switch to the slightly less intuitive logMAR notation Methods The differences in Snellen and logMAR notation will be explained in order to understand the (dis)advantages of each notation Results When measuring visual acuity, we should always take into account the purpose of the measurement: refraction and prescription of correction, reporting (low) visual acuity in clinical trials, ... Conclusion LogMAR notation of visual acuity has several advantages but the Snellen notation is widespread and can be maintained in specific conditions.
To crowd or not to crowd? The influence of surrounding contours on measures of visual acuity
Authors: BARRETT BT 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose Crowding refers to the finding that visual acuity (VA) for isolated letters is better than the VA measured when the letters to be identified are flanked by other letters. Although crowding was first described over 50 years ago, it remains the subject of much research interest. Here, I summarise the reasons why crowding is so important and the current thinking about it. Methods Crowding is important for at least three reasons: (1) Children and amblyopes suffer more from the effects of crowding. Accurate VA measures are a key component of attempts to detect and diagnose visual disorders that first emerge in early life but whose effects can last a lifetime. (2) Following on from (1), crowding has had, and continues to have, a major influence on VA test‐chart design. This is because crowded VA scores can’t easily be predicted from unflanked VA scores. (3) Until recently, crowding was studied only from the perspective of its influence on VA measures. However, it is now recognised that crowding influences not just the ability to identify letters but all kinds of object recognition. For example, eye care professionals need to be aware that crowding limits reading speed, and hence that changes to letter/word spacing can improve reading proficiency. Results Recent research findings greatly simplify the story about crowding, but they also highlight how the significance of crowding for eye care professionals extends well beyond VA measurement. Conclusion Crowding has important implications for patients both in the clinic and for their everyday activities, most notably in relation to reading. With greater understanding of crowding, we are in a better position to help and advise our patients.
Recurrent inflammatory optic neuropathy (RION)
Authors: ARNDT C , GARCIA T , TOURBAH A , LABAUGE P , JEAN JEAN L , VERMERSCH P , DEFOORT S , SPEEG C , DE SEZE J 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose Optic neuritis is a demyelinating inflammation of the optic nerve. Many cases of optic neuritis are associated with multiple sclerosis or neuromyelitis optica. In some cases, a recurrence of isolated optic neuritis is observed. However this existence of entity remains controversial. Yhe present retrospective study was designed to estimate the prevalence of this condition. Methods In five university hospitals (Lille, Montpellier, Nimes, Reims and Strasbourg), between October 2005 and October 2009, the charts of patients with recurrent isolated optic neuropathy (RION) and normal cerebral magnetic resonance imaging included prospectively were reviewed. The following parameters were analyzed: date of the first relapse, age at onset, duration at the time of inclusion, recurrence after steroid withdrawal, unilateral or bilateral involvement, number of relapses, visual acuity, retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, diagnostic workup, and longterm treatment with immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory drugs. Results During the predefined period, 18 patients (15 women, 3 men; age 17–54 years at onset) matched the inclusion criteria. Between two and six relapses of optic neuropathy were observed. The median duration was 6 years. In untreated patients (n=9), a significant inverse correlation was observed between visual acuity and duration of the disease; this correlation was not found in the group of patients (n=9) with long‐term treatment Conclusion The progressive loss of vision over time in this retrospective study of recurrent isolated optic neuropathy could be related to axonal loss. A prospective cohort study is necessary to confirm this hypothesis and to evaluate the benefit of long‐term treatment on this progression.
Evolution of visual field defects and alterations of the retinal nerve fiber layer in the pituitary macroadenoma
Authors: GUERRI MONCLUS N , EGEA ESTOPINAN MC , PRIETO E , IDOIPE M , GIL ARRIBAS L , FERNANDEZ PEREZ S , CALVO P , GARCIA MARTIN E 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the evolution of the visual field defects and the alterations of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), which are produced in intracranial neoplasms that affect the visual pathway. Methods Description of a clinical case. 44 years old male with a prolactin‐producing pituitary macroadenoma. The patient presented progressive defects in the visual field (bitemporal hemianopsia), observed by standard automated perimetry (SAP) (Humphrey, SITA Standard 30.2), and RNFL atrophy evaluated by means of monochromatic fiber photography, optical coherence tomography (OCT) and laser polarimetry (GDx VCC). Results An uncompleted removal of the tumor was performed by transsphenoidal approach. It was observed a mild and progressive recuperation of the visual field defects. The RNFL alterations did not show any change. Conclusion The visual field defects caused by intracranial space‐occupying tumors, may improved after resection of the tumor. Structural alterations in the RNFL remain stable.
Validation of PCR for the detection of pseudomonas aeruginosa from cornea specimens
Authors: KOWALSKI R , HILLENBRAND M , THOMPSON P 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose The definitive detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from the cornea is essential for effective therapy especially in cases complicated by anti‐infective pre‐treatment. Methods The present study investigated the validation of PCR for detecting Pseudomonas aeruginosa from corneal specimens using a real‐time method with the SmartCycler (Cepheid, Sunnyvale, CA, USA). Primer and probes directed toward the ecfx (63 bp) and the 16s rRNA genes were validated against 20 true‐positive specimens (corneal specimens positive for Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and 20 true‐negative samples (spiked samples of HSV, VZV, Candida, Aspergillus, and Fusarium). Results The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and efficiency of PCR to the ecfx and 16s rDNA genes were, respectively: [80%, 95%, 95%, 80%, 87%], and [77%, 100%, 100%, 77%, 87%]. The amplification efficacy and limit of detection were respectively: [0.97, 33.6 µg/ml], and [1.03, 8.12 µg/ml]. Conclusion PCR was validated for detecting Pseudomonas aeruginosa from corneal specimens. The impact of detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from cases of non‐specified keratitis will need to be determined.
Retinal AAV2‐mediated SOCS1 overexpression in the chronic model of experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis
Authors: KOCH P , MAKHOUL M , ELMALEH V , LAU‐KILBY A , DE MAERTELAER V , DE GRAEF C , CASPERS L , BRUYNS C , TENENBAUM L , WILLERMAIN F 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose Activation of retinal cells by IFNγ is required for inflammatory cell recruitment during experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) development. IFNγ activates pro‐inflammatory genes transcription but also induces suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) proteins, which negatively regulate IFNγ signaling. Methods To study the effects of retinal SOCS1 overexpression on EAU, adeno‐associated vectors AAV2‐SOCS1 or AAV2‐GFP were injected intravitreally in the right eye of C57Bl6 mice. Four weeks later, EAU was induced by s.c. immunisation with IRBP peptide 1‐20. Results A high inter‐animal variability of disease induction was observed, possibly masking the effect of SOCS1. In order to normalize for disease severity, the means of ratios of the clinical and histological scores of the AAV injected eyes over the contralateral non‐injected eyes (I/NI) were calculated and found to be significantly lower in the SOCS1 group, especially in the infected layers. Unexpectedly, the mean I/NI was significantly higher than 1 in the GFP group, suggesting that injection of AAV2‐GFP itself was pro‐inflammatory. MHCII was strongly expressed during EAU. None of the MHCII+ cells was GFP+, suggesting that SOCS1 effects were not mediated through a downregulation of MHCII in transduced cells. Nevertheless, the profile of MHC class II expression in the ciliary bodies was different in AAV2‐SOCS1 injected and contralateral eyes. Conclusion In conclusion, although AAV2‐mediated SOCS1 retinal expression did not globally protect against EAU development, it significantly reduced inflammation locally at the site of infection.
Efficacy of IL‐17A mAbs on Toxoplasma gondii proliferation and intraocular inflammation in a murine model of ocular toxoplasmosis
Authors: SAUER A , SCHOLLER M , SPEEG C , GARWEG J , PFAFF A , CANDOLFI E , BOURCIER T 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose The aims of our study are to determine the possible efficacy of IL‐17A mAbs on Toxoplasma gondii proliferation and the benefit on intraocular inflammation in a murine model of ocular toxoplasmosis. Methods Mice infection is done by intravitreal injection of Toxoplasma gondii, PRU type II strain, and leads to severe ocular inflammation. At the same time of infection, IL‐17A mAbs is administered by intravitreal route. Intraocular inflammatory grading and histological datas are determined. Parasites counting and mRNA levels of Tbet, Foxp3, IL‐27 and ROR‐gammaT are quantified using RT‐PCR. Cytokines levels and profiles are established on murine aqueous humor using multiplex assay. Results Intraocular inflammation is significantly decreased after IL‐17A mAbs intravitreal injection in infected mice. Parasite counting shows a significant decrease after IL‐17A mAbs. mRNA levels of T‐bet, Foxp3 and IL‐27 are increased with IL‐17 abs. mRNA‐ROR‐gammaT levels are unchanged. In aqueous humor, cytokines pattern shows a Th1/Treg profile after IL‐17 mAbs intraocular injection. Conclusion IL‐17A mAbs may mitigate chorioretinitis by antagonizing the Th17 phenotype through induction of Th1 and Treg cells in the eye. T regulatory (Treg) cells secreting could play an important protective and homeostatic role in modulating hypersensitivity responses induced by Toxoplasma infection. Antagonism of Th17 by Treg cells could be a way to limit ocular lesion. These data open new in vivo therapeutic approaches by repressing the Th17 pathway using IL‐17A mAbs.
The influence of inhibitors of α‐adrenergic receptors on uveitis induced by endotoxins
Authors: POZNANSKI Z , MISIUK‐HOJLO M 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose Investigation of anti‐inflammatory activity of Prazosin and Carvedilol in the experimentally induced anterior uveitis in rats. Activity of the Prazosin was compared to the activity of prostaglandin’s cyclooxygenase inhibitor – ibuprofen. Methods Prazosin suspended in PBS (phosphate buffered saline) was injected intra‐peritonealy (i.p.) in the dose of 2 to 30 mg/kg of body mass(b.m.) 24 and/or 3 hours prior to and/or 3hours after the induction of EIU – endotoxin induced uveitis – achieved by subcutaneous injection of 50 μg of the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from Hafnia alvei 981. Carvedilol suspended in PBS was given i.p. in the dose of 30mg/kg b.m. 3hours before and after induction of EIU. Ibuprofen suspended in PBS was given i.p. in the dose of 100mg/kg b.m. 3hours before and after the EIU induction. Animals in the control group received PBS i.p. only. 24 hours following the EIU induction clinical assessment was performed with evaluation of the inflammatory cells in the anterior chamber fluid. Results Investigation of Prazosin’s influence on EIU induction showed, that when given 24hours prior to LPS injection it had no influence on inflammatory cells density or symptoms intensity. However, when given 3 hours before the induction, resulted in significant reduction of both parameters. Even stronger anti‐inflammatory reaction was observed, when given 3 hours post EIU induction. Doses reduced to 2 and 6 mg/kg b.m. proved to be active, when given in the same pattern. Administration of Prazosin 24 and 3 hours pre‐ and 3 hours post induction all together, blocked EIU induction. Conclusion Carvedilol proved to be far less active than Prazosin. It was also noticed that the Ibuprofen does not stop inflammation process.
Intravitreal fluocinolone acetonide implant (RetisertTM) in the management of severe non‐infectious posterior uveitis.
Authors: CHAKRABARTI M , UPENDRAN MR , FRAZER D , SILVESTRI G 
Published: November 2010

Abstract Purpose To report our experience with the intravitreal fluocinolone acetonide implant (Retisert TM) in treating patients with severe chronic non‐infectious posterior uveitis. Methods Retrospective review of case notes of patients with severe posterior uveitis who had Retisert TM implants over a 6‐year period. 12 eyes of 9 patients were identified. Indications for implantation included need for repeated sub‐tenon triamcinolone injections, non‐responsiveness, poor tolerance to systemic medication or unilateral disease. Results The follow‐up time ranged from 9 to 76 months (mean ‐ 35.4). 3 patients received implants in both eyes. In 3 patients who were followed up for longer than 36 months, a second implant was inserted. Snellen visual acuity improved in all eyes, average gain being 3.5 lines (range 1‐6). There was improved control of the intraocular inflammation in all patients. All patients have been able to either stop or reduce systemic immunosuppressant therapy within 6‐ 12 months of the procedure. Six (40%) eyes developed raised IOP with 4 requiring trabeculectomy. Five patients required cataract surgery. One patient developed a peripheral retinal tear with localised detachment, which was treated successfully with vision returning to 6/6. Conclusion RetisertTM is very effective in severe non‐infectious posterior uveitis and may be the ideal option in those intolerant or unresponsive to topical and systemic immunosuppression. It can also be used in bilateral disease. The significant complications are acceleration of cataract and raised IOP. However, these need to be considered against the benefits of better control of inflammation and reduced systemic immunosuppression.