bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Developments in diagnosing the tubulointerstitial nephritis and uveitis (TINU) syndrome
Authors: MACKENSEN F , DAVID F , SCHWENGER V , LEVINSON R , RAJALINGAM R , BECKER MD , MARTIN TM , ROSENBAUM JT 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose Tubulointerstitial nephritis and uveitis (TINU) syndrome is a rare form of uveitis but there is reason to believe that this syndrome is underdiagnosed and renal manifestation may not be treated. Gold standard for diagnosisng TINU is invasive renal biopsy. Here, we show that performing beta‐2 microglobulin analysis in urine and HLA typing is helpful to find otherwise undiagnosed TINU cases with subclinical forms of nephritis. Methods Beginning January 2006 we prospectively obtained Ub2MG levels in all children with AU attending our pediatric uveitis clinic for the first time. Mandeville criteria were used to grade certainty of diagnosis. We compared with a healthy control group of children. HLA typing on patients with AU but no nephritis (n =28) by a Luminex‐based PCR‐SSO typing method was performed in another study. We compared frequencies to normal published controls and a published TINU cohort (n=20). Results The simple screening method of determining urinary Beta‐2‐Mikroglobulin showed in up to 2/3 of children with new‐onset AU subclinical renal manifestation. HLA Typing showed the TINU associated HLA DRB1*0102 in 12.5% of patients with AU with normal renal function opposed to 0.6% in healthy controls (p <0.0001; RR 14.3 (8.3‐32.0)). The allele was even more frequent in patients < 20 years with AU with 40%. Conclusion Determining the right uveitis subset is essential for therapy and prognosis, therefore TINU has to be kept in mind when considering differential diagnosis of AU. Urinary Beta‐2 micorglobulin and HLA Typing can give helpful information to direct this process.
Changes in macular pigment optical density and serum concentrations of lutein and zeaxanthin, in response to weight loss
Authors: KIRBY M , HARRISON M , BEATTY S , NOLAN J 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose Studies investigating the relationship between macular pigment optical density (MPOD) and percentage body fat have consistently shown an inverse relationship between these variables. This study was designed to investigate changes in MPOD, and serum concentrations of lutein (L) and zeaxanthin (Z), in response to a weight loss. Methods We plan to recruit 100 subjects into this 12 month, multi‐visit, randomized‐controlled study. Adiposity was assessed by dual energy x‐ray absorbtiometry (DEXA), MPOD was measured using customised heterochromatic flicker photometry (cHFP). Dietary and exercise intervention was provided to subjects enrolled into the intervention group of this study. Inclusion criteria were: age 18‐60 years; body mass index > 28; absence of any ocular pathology; lack of a family history of age‐related maculopathy. Results To date, 93 subjects have been recruited. 22% of existing intervention subjects have lost ≥ 7 kgs in weight. A further 27% have lost up to 3.5 kgs in weight, and are maintaining this trend. Of note, preliminary statistical analysis of 11 subjects based on their 6 month data, indicate a positive, but statistically insignificant, relationship between MPOD and percentage body fat lost. Conclusion Preliminary results indicate a positive relationship between MPOD and weight loss. We await completion of this study and analysis of final results to allow us to comment further on this interesting relationship.
Aspheric optics, theoretical considerations
Authors: UNSBO P 
Published: September 2008

AbstractSpherical aberration is the largest higher‐order aberration in the human eye and it is the only aberration with a nonzero population average. Furthermore, in contrast to other aberrations such as, e. g., coma, spherical aberration can be corrected by rotationally symmetric optical surfaces, so called aspheric optics. These facts form the basis for an increasing number of both IOL’s and contact lenses which manipulate the spherical aberration in the eye. This talk will give a background on spherical aberration and state of the art aberration measurements in the human eye. Different aspects of ocular spherical aberration will be reviewed and the implications and possible visual benefits of correcting, or even inducing, spherical aberration will be discussed.
Clinical experience in aspheric IOLs ‐ a review of the world literature
Authors: LIU C 
Published: September 2008

AbstractThe natural crystalline lens continues to grow throughout life. In early adult life, the asphericity of the cornea and the lens more or less cancel each other out. Later in life, this balance is lost and older subjects experience poorer quality vision. During cataract surgery, there is an opportunity to redress this balance, or at least not add to the problem of positive spherical aberration by implanting IOLs with aspheric optics. Results from the emerging literature suggests that patients do have higher quality vision, including when an aspheric mulitfocal IOL such as the Alcon ReSTOR SN6AD3 is used. However, there may be problems with IOLs with deliberate negative spherical aberrations if decentration and tilt should occur. Also, the approach is one size fits all, and is not tailored to the optics of individual eyes. There is a great variation in corneal spherical aberrations in normal individuals.
Long‐term results of cataract surgery with implantation of a mechanically, reversibly adjustable intraocular lens: *Acri.Tec AR‐1 PC/IOL
Authors: JAHN CE , STEFIKOVA K 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To investigate long‐term safety and function of a mechanically, reversibly adjustable intraocular lens in human eyes Methods Clinical long‐term monitoring of the initial 38 eyes of 38 patients with senile cataract after implantation of the *Acri.Tec AR‐1 PC/IOL including a control group. Results Median follow‐up was 25 (range 6 to 52 months). Throughout the entire period of observation all eyes were behaving clinically in the same way as if implanted with a conventionel PC/IOL. 2 eyes were adjusted surgically 2 weeks after implantation. 19/38 eyes underwent Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy after a median period of 12 (range 6 to 43) months after implantation. Median change of spherical equivalent between 1 month and the last visit was 0 (range – 0.5 to + 0.5) diopters. At the last visit median best visual acuity was 0.7 (range 0.2 to 1.0) for eyes with the *Acri.Tec AR‐1 PC/IOL and 0.8( range 0.3 to 1.0) for the control group. Both eyes having undergone adjustment surgery had visual acuity of 0.8 rsp 1.0 with stable refractions 45 rsp. 42 months after adjustment surgery. Conclusion The *Acri.Tec AR‐1 PC/IOL implanted into the capsular bag of adult human eyes is a safe PC/IOL. Refraction is predictably adjustable after implantation. It remains stable before and after Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy or after surgical adjustment of the refraction. This type of IOL may prove helpful especially in pediatric cataract surgery to avoid the development of amblyopia and in adults when precise refractive outcome is important either because of individual preference of the patient for a preferred refraction or because of intendend monovision to reduce spectacle dependence to a minimum.
Commercial interest
Effect of dietary omega‐3 and omega‐6 fatty acids on IOP elevation, electroretinographic changes and retinal ganglion cell loss in a rat model of glaucoma induced by laser
Authors: BRON AM , SCHNEBELEN C , SALINAS‐NAVARRO M , ACAR N , PASQUIS B , CREUZOT CP , VILLEGAS‐PEREZ MP , VIDAL‐SANZ M , BRETILLON L 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To test the efficacy of dietary omega‐3 and omega‐6 fatty acids in a rat model of glaucoma induced by laser photocoagulation. Methods Rats were fed for 3 months with a diet containing either: 1) 17% of omega‐3 fatty acids (10% EPA + 7% DHA), 2) 10% of omega‐6 fatty acids (as GLA), or 3) a combination of both omega‐3 and omega‐6 fatty acids (10% EPA + 7% DHA + 10% GLA), by comparison with a control group of animals fed with a standard diet deprived of EPA, DHA and GLA. After 3 months of diet, glaucoma was induced in one eye of the animal by laser.IOP was regularly measured and the retinal function was evaluated by electroretinography (ERG) for 3 months. At the end of the experiment, the loss of the retinal ganglion cells in both operated and fellow eyes was evaluated after retrolabelling using Fluorogold. Results A significant increase of IOP was observed in the laser treated‐eyes: 49±16 mmHg compared to 11±1.2 mmHg in the fellow eyes, after photocoagulation. IOP elevation was similar in each group. The ERG b‐wave amplitude was significantly reduced by approximately 70% 8 and 12 weeks in the laser treated‐eyes.None of the diets efficiently prevented the loss of the retinal ganglion cells. Conclusion Neither dietary omega‐6 nor omega‐3 fatty acids efficiently prevented the development of glaucoma in our rat model, as illustrated by the absence of effects against IOP elevation and loss of retinal ganglion cells. Further works are warranted to elucidate the mechanisms and consequences of the effects of omega‐6 fatty acids on the retinal function as assessed by ERG.
Intracameral moxifloxacin (Vigamox): in vitro safety on human ocular cells
Authors: KERNT M , NEUBAUER AS , LIEGL R , DE KASPAR H , EIBL KH , LACKERBAUER CA , ALGE CS , KAMPIK A 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose The 4. generation fluorochinolon moxifloxacin covers most isolates causing endophthalmitis. It is safe and effective for systemic and topical use, however only very limited data is available on prophylactic intracameral administration to prevent endophthalmitis. This study investigates the safety of Viagamox (moxifloxacin) for intracameral application in a cell culture model Methods Endothelial toxicity of Vigamox (moxifloxacin) was evaluated in cultured human corneas. Toxic effects regarding primary human RPE, trabecular meshwork cells (TMC) and corneal endothelial cells (CEC) were evaluated after 24h and under conditions of oxidative stress. By treating cells with TNF‐a, LPS and IL‐6 the effects of moxifloxacin on viability under conditions of inflammation were investigated. Toxicity was evaluated by measuring the inhibition of cell proliferation (MTT). Cell viability was quantified by a microscopic live dead assay Results No corneal endothelial toxicity could be detected after 30 days treatment with 500µg/mL moxifloxacin. RPE,TMC,and CEC showed adverse effects on proliferation and viability at concentrations higher than 150µg/mL moxifloxacin only. Preincubation with TNF‐a, LPS, IL‐6 or H2O2 and subsequent treat with moxifloxacin concentrations up to 150µg/ml for 24h had no significant effect on proliferation and viability Conclusion Moxifloxacin concentrations up to 150µg/mL had no significant toxicity on RPE, TMC, CEC and human corneas. The MIC90 of moxifloxacin for common pathogens of endophthalmitis is known to be in the range of 0.25 ‐ 2.5µg/mL. Therefore, intracameral use of moxifloxacin at concentrations up to 150µg/mL may be safe and effective to prevent endophthalmitis after intraocular surgery
Changes in ocular signs and symptoms when switching from preserved latanoprost 0.005% to preservative‐free tafluprost 0.0015%: phase IIIb study in patients with open‐angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension
Authors: UUSITALO HMT , CHEN E , PFEIFFER N , BAUDOUIN C , ROPO A 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose This open‐label, multinational, phase IIIb study investigated the changes in ocular signs and symptoms when patients were switched from preserved latanoprost 0.005% to preservative‐free tafluprost 0.0015% (q.d. at 20:00) for 12 weeks. Methods Patients with open‐angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension who had received latanoprost for at least 6 months and had at least 2 ocular symptoms or one symptom and one sign were enrolled (n=158). Change from screening in ocular symptoms and signs were the main endpoints. Data from the 6‐week analysis are reported here. Results After switching to preservative‐free tafluprost, the proportion of patients with at least mild symptoms decreased: irritation/burning/stinging sensation 56.3% to 30.8%, foreign body sensation 46.8% to 25.6%, tearing 49.4% to 28.8%, itching 55.1% to 25.6% and dry‐eye sensation 64.6% to 35.3%. Decreases in proportions for abnormal signs were: tear break‐up time 94.9% to 76.9%, corneal fluorescein staining 81.6% to 52.6%, conjunctival fluorescein staining 84.2% to 53.8%, blepharitis 60.1% to 42.3%, conjunctival hyperaemia 84.2% to 69.2% and tear production 71.5% to 61.5%. All changes were statistically significant. Conclusion Switching patients from preserved latanoprost to preservative‐free tafluprost clearly reduced ocular symptoms and signs.
Commercial interest
ERRATA SHEET Correction to order of ocular symptoms and respective values for percentage of patients with abnormal values:After switching to preservative‐free tafluprost, the proportion of patients with at least mild symptoms decreased: irritation/burning/stinging sensation 56.3% to 30.8%, itching 46.8% to 25.6%, foreign body sensation 49.4% to 28.8%, tearing 55.1% to 25.6% and dry‐eye sensation 64.6% to 35.3%.[Correction added after online publication 4 Sept. 2008]
Quantifying the abnormal macular pigment distribution in macular telangiectasia type 2
Authors: VAN DER VEEN LP , CHARBEL‐ISSA P , STIJFS A , HOLZ FG , SCHOLL HPN , BERENDSCHOT TJM 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose Recently, increased central confocal blue reflectance was reported to be a characteristic finding in patients with Macular Telangiectasia type 2. This was thought to be due to an altered distribution of macular pigment, namely depleted in the centre of the macula with a remaining peripheral ring at 6 degrees eccentricity. The goal of this study was to objectify the substance of which this ring is constituted unambiguously. Methods We used the objective technique of fundus reflectometry, that enables to quantify absolute values of macular pigment optical density (MPOD), without the need of a reference point. Results Measurements showed very low MPOD values at 2 and 4 degrees foveal eccentricity in all subjects. In the majority of eyes measured, MPOD values were clearly augmented at 6 degrees eccentricity with respect to measurements at other ecentricities. Conclusion Macular pigment was depleted at 2 and 4 degrees foveal eccentricity. The aforementioned ring at 6 degrees foveal eccentricity proved indeed to be macular pigment. Further, the data showed a significantly more pronounced depletion at temporal compared to nasal eccentricity.
Scientific Community ‐ contact networking, research collaboration on a global scale
Authors: GRACZYNSKI M 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose In the era of globalisation and growing competitiveness research projects are conducted by big teams of scientists located in distant geographical locations. Management of collaboration of such diffused team is a big challenge even for experienced leaders, which requires a lot of efforts and careful logistics. Methods Virtual Research Groups is an internet‐based platform for management and conduction of multi‐center research projects. The platform consists of four modules: research module, information module, communication module and administration module. The system allows complete supervision and control of investigators and approval of entered protocols if needed. Simple protocols can be set up easily by investigators but more complicated ones are custom‐made and contain validation algorhytms. Statistical tools are available and are set up individually for the project according to the investigators requirements. Information module provides up‐to‐date literature on the subject of investigation along with information on available grants and other financial support, conferences and even suggestion on scientists whos profiles match the subject of investigation, who might be invited to join the group if expansion is desirable. Financial and scientific settlement of the project is one of the new features of the Virtual Research Groups. Conclusion The platform can be equally used for spontaneous creation of research teams as well as for management of structured research consortia or multi‐center clinical research
Commercial interest
Community Services enter professional territory ‐ what is in there for us?
Authors: GRZYBOWSKI A 
Published: September 2008

AbstractInternational collaboration ‐ a cornerstone of today's research ‐ requires state‐of‐the‐art communication tools. There are a number of dedicated services for scientists in the internet which provide networking and social services, such as SciVee, SciLink, Community of Sciences and Index Copernicus, just to name a few of them. Each of them have unique functionalities which make the service useful and interesting. The ideal scientific service should provide maximum security and excellent networking capabilities. Scientists should be able to search for collaborators not only by specialty, keywords and geographical location, but also by special research skills and available lab equipment. It would be helpful if some kind of achievement evaluation could be added into the search service. The second important property of an ideal scientific service should be profiled information delivery which could save a precious researchers time. Last but not least a real collaboration tools should be added to enable online investigations. In my talk I will try to give an answer to the question "what is in there for us?".
Photodynamic therapy with verteporfin combined with intravitreal injection of bevacizumab for central serous chorioretinopathy: a case series
Authors: MAIER M , VALET V , FEUCHT N , FIORE B , WINKLER VON MOHRENFELS C , LOHMANN CP 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To discuss the effect and outcome of a combined photodynamic therapy and intravitreal injection of Bevacizumab in treating central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Methods 4 Patients with chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) were treated with intravitreal injection of 1,25 mg Bevacizumab administered within 24 hours after standard PDT laser treatment (83 sec., 689nm) with Verteporfin. (5,7ml Verteporfin over 10 min. intravenousely). Before, 3, and 6 month after treatment visual acuity, OCT examinations (retinal thickness) and fluorescein angiography were performed. Results Mean visual acuity increased from baseline 20/50, to 20/25 after 3 month. Subretinal fluid almost resolved completely after treatment. OCT‐ and FLA‐ findings are presented in our patients. OCT 1, 3 and 6 month after combination therapy showed a reduced retinal thickness compared to baseline. 1 patient had full recovered vision after 6 month. Conclusion Photodynamic therapy combined with injection of intravitreal Bevacizumab was very effective in our patients. Current literature depicts medical treatment, focal laser, SRT and PDT as treatment options for CSC. To our knowledge this is the first report of a combination therapy in CSC. The treatment was well tolerated and we did not see any complications. The patients presented with ongoing recovered vision during follow up. Further experience is necessary to evaluate the treatment option of PDT and Avastin® combination therapy especially in chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).
EphB4 is expressed in preretinal neovascularization in a mouse model of oxygen‐induced retinopathy
Authors: EHLKEN C , MARTIN G , LEINWEBER M , HANSEN LL , AGOSTINI HT 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose EphrinB2 is predominantly expressed in arteries, while its ligand EphB4 is predominantly expressed in veins. Activation of ephrinB2 and EphB4 by receptor dimers have been shown to enhance neovascularization, whereas inhibition of EphB4 reduced neovascularization both in vitro and in vivo in a mouse model of oxygen‐induced retinopathy (OIR). These data suggest a role of the ephrinB2‐EphB4 system in retinal neovascularization. We looked for expression of these membrane‐bound factors in a mouse model of OIR. Methods Heterogenic EphB4lacZ+/‐ mice were examined in a well‐established mouse model of oxygen‐induced retinopathy. Mice were kept in 75% oxygen for postnatal days P7‐P12. Returned to room air, they underwent a relative hypoxia and developed a proliferative retinopathy within the next 5‐7 days. Eyes were enucleated on P17‐P19 during the peak of vascular proliferation, stained for LacZ, and embedded in paraffin. Sections were investigated for LacZ staining. Results Sections show a strong expression of EphB4 in preretinal neovascularization both in small and larger vessels. EphB4 is also mildly expressed in vessels in the inner plexiform layer and in the ganglion cell layer. Conclusion The expression pattern suggests a role of EphB4 in preretinal neovascularization in a mouse model of OIR. Further studies of the intracellular localisation of EphB4 are needed to add to understanding the role of the ephrin system in OIR.
Indocyanine green‐induced toxicity to retinal neurones in cultures is enhanced by light
Authors: LASCARATOS G , OSBORNE NN 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To deduce whether light influences the effect of indocyanine green (ICG) in primary rat retinal cultures. Methods 5‐day‐old primary rat retinal cultures were exposed to concentrations of ICG (0.01%, 0.05% and 0.1%) that are used clinically for 2 minutes. Some cultures were then additionally exposed to 3000lux of white light for 10 min. Twenty four hours later cell viability was assessed with the MTT assay. In addition, cultures were stained for the presence of GABA neurones, reactive oxygen species (ROS) using 2’,7’‐dihydroethidium (DHE) and DNA breakdown (TUNEL procedure) to indicate apoptosis. Results 0.1% ICG was found to significantly reduce cell viability and the number of GABA‐immunoreactive neurones in primary rat retinal cultures. Lower concentrations of ICG also had an effect on these parameters suggesting dose‐dependence. 0.1% ICG also significantly increased the appearance of ROS and numbers of TUNEL positive cells in cultures. The effects caused by ICG were potentiated by light. Conclusion Evidence is provided to suggest that the toxic effect of ICG to retinal neurones in culture is exacerbated by light. The relevance of these studies is self evident in relation to vitreoretinal surgery where use of a normally safe concentration of ICG may be rendered toxic because of the used light.
Maculopathy associated with angioid streaks
Authors: GUERRI MONCLUS N , TORRON FERNANDEZ‐BLANCO C , EGEA ESTOPINAN MC , HONRUBIA F 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To present choroidal neovascularization and macular atrophy without neovascularization associated with angioid streaks by means of two case reports. Methods Two middle aged man (42 an 46 years old) with angioid streaks were evaluated. The first pacient showed choroidal neovascularization and subretinal fibrosis, which was treated with intravitreal ranibizumab. The second case had macular atrophy in one eye in association with subretinal fibrosis in the contralateral eye. Results A single dose of intravitreal ranibizumab improved the structural features of exudative maculopathy. Functional improvement (visual acuity) was less important because of subretinal fibrosis. Atrophic maculopathy was not susceptible to treatment. Conclusion Angioid streaks diagnosis is usually late. It must be suspect in middle aged pacients with choroidal neovascularization and their visual prognosis depends on early treatment. Macular atrophy associated to angioid streaks is very uncommon.