bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optic nerve reflectance variations in the near‐infrared during neural function
Authors: RIVA CE , BONAIUTI M , ROVATI L 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose Diffuse luminance flicker induces optic nerve head (ONH) reflectance changes, ChRonh, in humans, when Ronh is measured at visible wavelengths (Crittin and Riva, 2004). Intrinsic signal imaging in macaque retina and ONH has revealed also flash‐induced infrared (840‐900 nm) reflectance changes (Hanazono et al., 2007). Our purpose was to determine a) whether flicker‐induced near‐infrared ChRonh are detectable from the human ONH; b) is there a spatial distribution of ChRonh. Methods Ronh was measured at 770 nm with a fundus camera based reflectometer. Neural activity was evoked by 535‐nm diffuse (50 deg) flicker (various frequencies below 20Hz). 7 successive recordings were performed at 9 temporal sites, each consisting of a 20s baseline, a 60s flicker period and a 40s recovery. ChRonh (%) was defined as 100 x (Ronh,fl ‐ Ronh,bl)/Ronh,bl, where Ronh,bl is the average response during the baseline (no flicker) and Ronh,fl is the response, averaged over time slots of 2s, during flicker. ONH regions containing visible vessels were avoided. Results Flicker induced significant decreases in Ronh at most sites. These decreases presented a strong oscillatory behavior (period of about 8s), reached a maximum in less than 40s of flicker and were more marked at the rim. ChRonh was found to be frequency‐dependent. Ronh during recovery also showed marked oscillations Conclusion Flicker induces significant frequency‐dependent decreases in near‐infrared (770 nm) reflectance in the temporal region of the human ONH, confirming previous infrared optic nerve intrinsic signal reflectance findings in monkeys. Comparison with flicker‐induced blood flow increases in the ONH, these decreases are most probably due to changes in blood volume during neural activity.
Ocular adverse effects of the pneumatic trabeculoplasty in patients' treatment with open angle glaucoma
Authors: PESCE G , AHMETAJ M , ALESSIO T , SCANDALE M , SCORCIA G 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To valuate the ocular adverse effects of the pneumatic trabeculoplasty in patient affected by open angle glaucoma. The subjective and objective troubles of the ocular surface have been valued during and after the execution of the procedure. Methods 50 patients have been recruited (25 men and 25 women, inclusive age between 30 and 55 years) affected by open angle glaucoma in topical pharmacological treatment with beta‐blockers. The patients in treatment with prostaglandin have been excluded. The treatment has been performed on day 0 and 7 only on 1 eye while the other one has been used as check. The ocular surface has been observed before and after the treatment relatively to the reported symptoms (burning, pain, ocular disconfort, lacrimation, visual alteration during the treatment, itch) and the signs (conjuntival hyperaemia, haemorrhage). After the treatment the patients have continued to instill only the hypotensive therapy. All the patients were controlled for 30 days. Results The following side effects have been reported: conjuntival hyperaemia (75%), pain (50%), ocular disconfort (90%), visual alteration (90%), hemorrahe (0,25%), lacrimation (20%), itch (20%) Conclusion Modest and transitory simptoms and signs have shown the treatment to be safe, both during and after it. With the exception of a case of subconjuntival hemorrhage, spontaneously resolved after 7 days.
The role of leukocytes in ischemia‐driven neovascularisation
Authors: SHIMA DT , KRILLEKE D , NISHIJIMA K 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose Our research strategy has been to study VEGF‐A and the adaptive response to ischemia, with the aim of better understanding the benefit that VEGF‐A may bring to ischemic tissues, and to characterize the basis for the chaotic and poorly controlled neovascular response that usually accompanies ischemia in retinal diseases such as diabetic retinopathy. Methods Mice genetically engineered with deletion of the VEGF164 isoform were examined during normal vascular development of the retina and following oxygen‐induced retinopathy. Abnormal vascular growth and leukostasis were quantified. To study determinants of VEGF‐A involved in leukostasis, VEGF‐A mutants and VEGF‐A signaling antagonists were injected intraocularly Results Rather than focusing on the abolition of VEGF‐A signaling in ischemic retinal disease, we have tried to find ways to normalize the adaptive response. We previously demonstrated that inflammation was critical for the abnormal vascular response in OIR. Here we found that inflammation was driven by VEGF164, and that a cluster of residues in the heparin‐binding domain of VEGF164 were responsible for its heightened inflammatory activity compared to other VEGF‐A isoforms. This region of VEGF164 imparts high affinity binding to VEGFR1 Conclusion Data suggest that reducing VEGF‐VEGFR1 mediated inflammation, whilst preserving VEGF‐mediated angiogenesis, may be a strategy to help transform the unwanted pathological response to ischemia into a desirable outcome whereby new vessels sprout into the area of need and nurture the ischemic retina.
Commercial interest
The reasons of unsuccessful antiglaucoma operations
Authors: MILOJKO B 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose The study was to determinate the level excessive scarring in zone of antiglaucome operations. Methods This study 48 eyes of 46 consecutive patients with medically uncontrolled glaucoma after filtration surgery underwent reconstruction of filtration zone. IOP decompensation happened between 6 mount and 6 years after filtration surgery. Mean preoperative IOP was 35.7± 8.4 mm Hg. Results After reconstruction of filtration zone in 9 causes (18,7%) aqueous humor outflow started after revision filtration bleb, 23 causes (48%) after reconstruction scleral spit. In other causes we had to cut up zone of trabeculectomy hole. In 8 causes (16%) excessive scarring in zone of trebeculectomy hole was mean reason for IOP decompensation. Conclusion The mean reason of IOP decompensation after antiglaucoma operation is excessive scarring in zone of scleral spit (48%) and filtrations bleb (18,7%).
Long term results of Limbal stem cell transplantation in ocular surface disease
Authors: MIRI A , ALDEIRI B , MATHEW M 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To evaluate results of limbal stem cell transplantation (LSCT) in patients with ocular surface (OS) disease. Methods The case records of 26 eyes of 25 patients who underwent LSCT with at least one year follow up were retrospectively reviewed. Aetiology, type of transplant procedure, intra and post‐operative complications and final visual outcome were analysed. Surgical success of transplanted limbal epithelial stem cells was defined by the duration of maintenance of normal corneal epithelial phenotype after surgery. Failure was defined as the presence of abnormally high fluorescein permeability and late corneal epithelial staining, recurrence of conjunctivalisation, neovascularisation, and persistent epithelial defect. Functional success was assessed by National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire 25(VFQ‐25). Results Survival of ocular surface transplantation in this study was seen in 23 procedures (82%) after 6 months and in 22 procedures (79%) after one year. An increase in visual acuity was observed after 21 limbal stem cells transplantations (75%).VFQ‐25 results have showed remarkable improvement in terms of vision and daily activities of the patients. Conclusion LSCT is an effective surgical procedure in the management of eyes prior to corneal graft surgery or as a combined procedure. Post‐operatively non healing defects and vascularisation of the cornea may contribute to the occurrence of surgical failure and the need for further procedures.
Quality of vision following penetrating keratoplasty and deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty for keratoconus
Authors: PARENTE G , FONTANA L , TASSINARI G 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose The authors purpose is to investigate whether quality of vision in keratoconus patients after deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) with and without descemet’s membrane (DM) exposure, may be comparable with Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK). Methods To investigate quality of vision after PK and DALK with and without DM exposure a files of 52 keratoconus patients were analysed. Patients were divided in 3 groups: group 1 (n = 16) DALK with DM exposure, group 2 (n = 22) DALK without DM exposure and group 3 (n = 14) PK. Visual function was assessed by Uncorrected Visual Acuity (UCVA) and Best Spectacle Corrected Visual Acuity (BSCVA), Low Contrast Visual Acuity (LCVA) and Pelli‐Robson Contrast Sensitivity (PRCS). Results UCVA was comparable among groups. BCVA, LCVA and PRCS were better in group 1 than group 2 (p < 0.05) and comparable between groups 1 and 3 (p > 0.05). Conclusion Quality of vision after DALK is comparable to PK if the DM is exposed.
Promotion of ER stress: a potential therapeutic approach for PCO
Authors: WANG L , DUNCAN G , NEILSON GJ , ZHANG H , WORMSTONE IM 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO) remains a significant clinical problem following cataract surgery. Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) stress has been shown to play a critical role in cell death and apoptosis. The aim of this study was to determine the relative effectiveness of ER stressors, thapsigargin (Tg) and arsenic trioxide (As2O3) on induction of cell death in human capsular bags. Methods FHL124 cell survival was assessed by Coomassie blue staining after 4 days. Induction of ER stress genes was detected using real‐time PCR and apoptosis assessed using the TUNEL assay. Human capsular bags were prepared from donor eyes and sealed with the Perfect Capsule device. The agents were again introduced to the bags for a 2 minute period prior to perfusion with EMEM alone. The bags were maintained in EMEM for 28 days and phase images were acquired throughout. Results Tg and As2O3 application to FHL124 cells induced significant up‐regulation of ER stress genes Bip, EIF2α, IRE1 and ATF6. FHL124 cells exposed for 2 minutes to both Tg and As2O3 for 4 days demonstrated reduced cell survival in a dose‐dependent manner. Moreover, TUNEL assay data showed that both Tg and As2O3 could induce FHL124 cell death by apoptosis. Application of the 100uM Tg and 100mM As2O3 to capsular bags for a 2 minute period using the perfect capsule system resulted in a total loss of viable cells following the 4 week culture period. Conclusion Thapsigargin and arsenic trioxide induce an ER stress in human lens epithelial cells, which is associated with a reduced cell survival and promotion of apoptosis. Using the perfect capsule system, a 2 minute exposure of either agent successfully killed all cells within the capsular bag and thus predicts putative therapeutic benefit in vivo.
Sealed capsule irrigation to prevent posterior capsule opacification: Results of long‐term clinical trials and laboratory studies
Authors: AUFFARTH GU , RABSILBER TM 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose We investigated long‐term safety and efficacy of sealed capsule irrigation (SCI) during cataract surgery to prevent posterior capsule opacification (PCO). Methods One eye of each of 17 patients (mean age: 70.1+/‐9.7 years) who presented with bilateral cataracts was randomly chosen for SCI treatment. After phacoemulsification, the capsular bag was vacuum sealed with the PerfectCapsule device (Milvella) followed by SCI using distilled water for two minutes. No vacuum loss occurred during irrigation. Each patient's fellow eye served as a control. One hydrophilic acrylic intraocular lens model was implanted in all eyes. Five patients had to be excluded due to deep anterior chamber, small pupil or unilateral surgery. Follow‐up examinations took place one day and one, three, six, 12 and 24 months after surgery. We evaluated safety parameters, anterior capsule (AC) overlapping and PCO. Results Postoperatively, mean best corrected visual acuity, pachymetry, endothelial cell count, intraocular pressure, AC overlapping and PCO showed no statistically significant difference between SCI and the control group (p>0.05, Wilcoxon test). Conclusion SCI is a safe procedure and enables the specific pharmacological targeting of lens epithelial cells inside the capsular bag. Using distilled water, however, it is not possible to reduce PCO development significantly. Thus, alternative substances should be evaluated.
Mechanism of PCO prevention in the bag‐in‐the‐lens technique
Authors: TASSIGNON MJ 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose Since the technique of the bag‐in‐the‐lens (BIL) implantation is based on performing a PCCC, the question can be raised whether we need the posterior capsule and in case it is removed whether this is safe for the eye. Methods Fluorophotometry, review of the literature and retinal detachment rates after BIL implantation have shown that PCCC does preserve the anterior ocular barrier and probably even better than in case YAG capsulotomoy is needed as it is the case in the traditional lens‐in‐the‐bag implantation technique. Results The risk for retinal detachment is comparable with the lens‐in‐the‐bag implantation at the short postoperative follow‐up. However, since no Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy is necessary after BIL technique, the risk for retinal detachment after BIL is lower with time. Conclusion At the long run, the BIL technique may even be safer for the eye than the lens‐in‐the‐bag implantation.
Commercial interest
Long‐term results of combined cataract and non perforant sclerectomy surgery supplemented with antimitotics: prospective study
Authors: GUTIERREZ G , BLOVIAR G , MIGUEL T 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose Prospectively to evaluate the long‐term results of phacoemulsification plus non perforant sclerectomy (PNPS) supplemented with antimetabolites and without implant. Methods Prospective, non‐randomized study that comprised all consecutive patients who underwent PNPS in our unit from January 2004 up to now. We analysed those patients with a minimum of follow‐up of one year. Results 42 eyes of 42 patients suffering form open angle glaucoma were included. Mean follow up was 17.4 (SD: 5.6) months (range 12 to 24 months). 85.5% has best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) ≥ 0.5; 73.8% ≥ 0,7 and 28.5% , 1. After the first year or the follow‐up the intraocular pressure (IOP) decreased by 49.3% and after the second year by 45.4% with or without medication. The decrease of the number of medications was statistically significant in all follow‐up periods. The number of complications was low and they were no severe. Total success was higher when MMC was used than when 5‐Fluorouracil was applied. Conclusion PNPS supplemented with antimetabolites reduces significatively the IOP in the long‐term, allows a rapid BCVA recovery, and has a low number rate of complications and they were no severe.
Increasing IOP decrease with sequential use of travoprost, travoprost/timolol fixed combination and travoprost/timolol fixed combination with adjunctive brinzolamide
Authors: HOLLO G , KOTHY P 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To investigate if combined intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering medication with travoprost/timolol (travg/tim) fixed combination and a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, brinzolamide is superior to both travoprost monotherapy and trav/tim fixed combination therapy in POAG and OHT. Methods Following a four‐week wash‐out period and using four‐week treatment periods, 20 POAG or OHT patients were treated with evening travoprost 0.004%, then switched to evening travoprost 0.004%/timolol 0.5% fixed combination, and finally the treatment was combined with adjunctive twice‐daily brinzolamide 1% ophthalmic suspension. Both eyes were treated but only one eye per patient, (the eye with higher mean diurnal IOP at baseline), was evaluated. IOP was measured at 8 a.m., 12 noon and 4 p.m. at baseline and at the end of each treatment period. Results Mean diurnal IOP (mean (SD)) at baseline was 28.5(7.3) mmHg which decreased to 22.3(6.3) mmHg on travoprost, 19.2(3.4) mmHg on trav/tim fixed combination and 17.3(3.4) mmHg when the brinzolamide was added to trav/tim (ANOVA, contrast test, p<0.003 for all comparisons). The individual time point IOP values showed similar and significant stepwise differences. Conclusion Adjunctive brinzolamide medication provided a clinically and statistically significant further IOP decrease in patients receiving evening‐dosed trav/tim fixed combination. The trav/tim fixed combination was significantly more effective in IOP reduction than travoprost monotherapy. These results suggest that combined therapy with trav/tim fixed combination and brinzolamide is clinically useful for IOP lowering in primary open‐angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
Commercial interest
Safety of trabeculectomy with mitomycin C: The ReGAE (research into glaucoma and ethnicity) experience
Authors: GHAURI AJ , SHAH P , SII F , HUSSAIN A , CHIANG M 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To describe the prevalence of surgical complications in patients undergoing trabeculectomy with mitomycin C (trab + MMC). Methods A Review of an open consecutive prospective interventional case series performed by a single surgical team was undertaken. The case mix was a supra‐regional complex mixture of primary, secondary and paediatric glaucoma. Complete and qualified success rates, and the prevalence of complications were calculated. Results 382 eyes of 298 patients were included in the study. Mean follow up was 3.08 years. Mean age was 57.4 years (range: 6‐87). At latest follow up qualified success (IOP ≤ 21mmhg with ≥1 ocular hypotensive agent) was 95.7% (360 eyes) and complete success (IOP ≤ 21mmhg without an ocular hypotensive agent) was 84.8% (319 eyes). Early postoperative complications ≤1 month of surgery were reported in 21 (5.5%) eyes. 7 (1.8%) eyes developed late surgery related complications >1 month of surgery. Clinically significant early hypotony (IOP <6 on 2 separate occasions and requiring surgical intervention) occurred in 17 (4.5%) eyes. 2 patients developed late hypotony including 1 case of hypotony maculopathy, and there was 1 case each of toxic anterior segment syndrome, corneal decompensation plus cystoid macular oedema (ICE syndrome patient), blebitis, endophthalmitis, aqueous misdirection, suprachoroidal haemorrhage, retinal tear, and epiretinal membrane. No patients developed choroidal neovascularisation or malignant glaucoma. 1 patient developed pulmonary oedema after general anaesthesia. Conclusion Trab + MMC in a complex supra‐regional case mix service is a highly effective and safe operation. Only 3 (0.8%) eyes developed irreversible vision loss > 2 lines Snellen.
Micropulse diode laser trabeculoplasty for secondary corticosteroid induced glaucoma
Authors: MELIS R , PILOTTO E , VUJOSEVIC S , DORIGO MT , MIDENA E 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the role of micropulse diode laser trabeculoplasty (MDLT) in the treatment of secondary glaucoma due to intravitreal injection of corticosteroid. Methods Five consecutives patients previously treated with intravitreal triamcinolone (4mg) for refractory diabetic macular edema developed secondary glaucoma in the treated eye. Each eye underwent 360° micropulse diode laser trabeculoplasty (2000 mw power, 200 msec duration, 15% duty cicle, 300 µm diameter per spot). Patients were followed at 1, 7, 15, 28 days and monthly for 12 months. Results Mean age of the patients was 56 ± 2 years. Mean baseline intraocular pressure (IOP) was 30 ± 3 mmHg. IOP significantly decreased at 7 days post operative (19 ± 4 mmHg; p < 0.001) and maintained at normal level in 3 of 5 eyes. After 28 days two eyes needed retreatment and IOP maintained normal in one eye during follow up. No pain or side effect was documented. Conclusion Secondary glaucoma due to intravitreal injection of corticosteroid may be safely treated with micropulse diode laser trabeculoplasty.
Control of filtering bleb scarring trough tissue bioengineering
Authors: APTEL F , DUMAS S , BURILLON C , DENIS P 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the effects on intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction and bleb morphology of a new biodegradable collagen implant iGen TM, a porous matrix reducing scar formation after glaucoma surgery. Methods We conducted a prospective interventional case series in 18 eyes of 18 patients with uncontrolled primary open‐angle glaucoma. We performed limbal‐based deep‐sclerectomy with implantion of the device in the scleral bed. We performed a complete ophtalmic examination, ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) and Visante anterior segment Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) at each follow up visit, scheduled 1 day, 1 week, 4 and 12 weeks post‐operatively. Results Postoperative IOP decreased significantly (p < 0.001) from a preoperative mean value of 25.1 ± 5.9 mm Hg (n = 2.73 glaucoma medications) to a postoperative mean value of 8.0 ± 1.1 (n = 0), 8.3 ± 1.2 (n = 0), 11.5 ± 3.0 (n = 0) and 14.1 ± 3.7 mm Hg (n = 0.28) at 1 day, 1week, 4 and 12 weeks respectively. Characteristic imaging parameters of successful bleb were frequently observed (14/18 patients): high and hypoechoic bleb with UBM; thin and hyporeflective bleb wall, multiple subconjunctival fluid spaces and hyporeflective deep bleb tissue with OCT. Bleb height and trabeculocorneal membrane thickness are correlated with low IOP (r = 0.91 p < 0.01, r = 0.90 p < 0.001) with UBM examination. Thin bleb wall, large subconjunctival fluid spaces and low reflectivity of bleb tissue are associated with lower IOP (r = 0.81 p < 0.01, p < 0.001 and p < 0.001) with OCT examination. No post‐operative complications were reported. Conclusion In our series, deep‐sclerectomy with iGen TM implantation seems to be an effective and well‐tolerated method to lower IOP and avoid conjunctival scarring.
Different techniques to evaluate chromosome aberrations
Authors: COUPLAND SE , DAMATO BERTIL 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To review the demonstration of chromosomal alterations in uveal melanomas Methods Uveal melanomas (UM) have an incidence of 6 per million per year, with presentation peaking at 60 years. Treatment is by various combinations of radiotherapy, local resection and phototherapy in 70% of patients, and by enucleation in 30%. Despite successful ocular treatment, 50% of UM patients develop metastatic disease. This occurs haematogenously, usually involving the liver, and almost always causing death within a year of the onset of symptoms. Long‐term survival is rare. Clinical trials evaluating agents for systemic adjuvant therapy are difficult because of the rarity of UM & the reduced availability of molecular genetic testing. Results In 1999 Prescher et al. reported that metastatic death occurs almost exclusively in patients with UM showing monosomy 3. Others also demonstrated a strong inverse relationship correlation between the presence of additional copies of 8q and survival. In contrast, patients with tumours having chromosome 6 abnormalities appear to have better prognosis. These analyses have been performed using FISH. Long‐term data suggests that FISH, however, is not highly specific, and that approx. 5‐10% of patients with disomy 3 UM develop metastatic disease. Newer methodologies are being tested on a research basis in the hope of using them as a diagnostic tool. These include multiplex ligation probe amplification (MLPA), array chromosome genomic hybridisation (aCGH), single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis and gene expression profiling. Conclusion Newer methodologies will provide more details to chromosomal changes in uveal melanoma, and possibly molecular therapeutic targets to which new medications can be directed in adjuvant treatment of metastatic disease.