bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The role of arachidonic acid metabolites in DR
Authors: ABU EL ASRAR AM , MISSOTTEN L , GEBOES K 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose The inducible enzyme cyclooxygense‐2 (COX‐2) and its metabolic products are important mediators for angiogenesis. We investigated the expression of COX‐2 and its downstream enzymes microsomal prostaglandin‐E synthase (mPGES)‐1, cytosolic PGES (cPGES) and thromboxane synthase (TXS) and correlated it with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and level of vascularization in proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) epiretinal membranes. Methods Fourteen membranes were studied by immunohistochemistry. Results Vascular endothelial cells expressed COX‐2, mPGES‐1 and VEGF in 75.6%, 64.3% and 50% of the membranes, respectively. TXS was expressed in stromal cells in 85.7% of the membranes. There was no immunoreactivity for cPGES. There were significant correlations between number of blood vessels expressing CD34 and the numbers of blood vessels expressing COX‐2 (rs = 0.858; p<0.001), mPGES‐1 (rs = 0.743; p = 0.002) and VEGF (rs = 0.845; p = 0.001) and the number of cells expressing TXS (rs = 0.74; p = 0.002). Number of blood vessels expressing VEGF correlated significantly with the numbers of blood vessels expressing COX‐2 (rs = 0.879; p<0.001) and mPGES‐1 (rs = 0.942; p<0.001) and the number of cells expressing TXS (rs = 0.702; p = 0.011). Conclusion COX‐2 and its metabolic products might contribute to PDR angiogenesis.
Circulating fibrocytes contribute to the myofibroblast population in proliferative vitreoretinopathy epiretinal membranes
Authors: ABU EL ASRAR AM , STRUYF S , VAN DAMME J , GEBOES K 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose Fibrocytes, circulating cells that co‐express markers of hematopoietic stem cells, leukocytes and fibroblast products, traffic to sites of tissue injury, differentiate into myofibroblasts and contribute to wound healing and fibrosis. We investigated the presence of fibrocytes and the expression of their chemotactic pathways CCL21 / CCR7 and CXCL12 / CXCR4 in proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) epiretinal membranes. Methods Sixteen membranes were studied by immunohistochemical techniques. Results Cells expressing alpha‐smooth muscle actin (alpha‐SMA), a marker of differentiation of fibrocytes into myofibroblasts, were present in all membranes. Cells expressing the hematopoietic stem cell antigen CD34, the leukocyte common antigen CD45, CCR7, CXCR4, CCL21 and CXCL12 were noted in 50%, 75%, 68.8%, 100%, 80% and 93.8% of the membranes, respectively. Double immunohistochemistry indicated that all cells expressing CD34, CD45, CCR7, CXCR4, CCL21 and CXCL12 co‐expressed alpha‐SMA. The number of cells expressing CD34 correlated significantly with the numbers of cells expressing CXCL12 (rs = 0.567; p = 0.022) and CCL21 (rs = 0.534; p = 0.04). Conclusion Circulating fibrocytes may function as precursors of myofibroblasts in PVR membranes.
Sclerocorneal limbus transplantation
Authors: BARRAQUER J 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose Discussion of the evolution of a technique suggested by José I. Barraquer in 1947, later completed by Strampelli and adopted and modified by other corneal surgeons. The original procedure was based on the clinical observation that regeneration of the corneal epithelial cells is dependant on the state of the limbus. This explained the bad prognosis of chemical burns and severe limbus trauma. At present it is well known that the stem cells located in the corneal limbus are responsible for epithelial regeneration. Penetrating keratoplasty limited to the cornea does not supply stem cells. Methods The technique consists in obtaining and grafting limbus tissue, in form of an annular or partial conjunctivosclerocorneal limbal graft preferably from the fellow eye or a living donor, or an eye bank eye. A case of chemical burn operated in 1981 is presented to illustrate the original technique of Strampelli. To illustrate the modern approach a case of chemical trauma with superior and inferior symblepharon and total vascularized leucoma operated in 1999 (limbal donor graft)taking advantage of the modern advances available at present (improved instrumentation, pharmacological inhibition of homograft reaction)is shown. Results The results were encouraging.The patient operated in 1981 died in 1988 with good vision (0.6).In the case operated in 1999, three months after the limbal transplant, re‐epithelization of the cornea was correct and an 8 mm penetrating keratoplasty combined with cataract extraction and IOL implantation was performed. Corrected vision 5 years postoperatively was 0.35. Conclusion Modern investigation and technology have converted a procedure based on surgical inspiration more than half a century ago into a valuable option in cases of irreversible damage of the corneal limbus.
Impact of culturing on metabolic profile of human corneas
Authors: KRYCZKA T , EHLERS N , MIDELFART A 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study was to examine possible differences in the metabolic profile between cultured and non‐cultured corneas. Methods Corneas from 12 donors were obtained post‐mortem and introduced to the tissue culture for 8‐20 days. The control corneal tissues were excised during enucleating of eyes with malignant melanoma in the retina from 4 patients and immediately frozen at ‐80 ºC. The metabolic profiles of the samples were investigated with HR MAS (High Resolution Magic Angle Spinning) 1H NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) spectroscopy (14.1 T) operating at 600.132 MHz. All data obtained with both methods were analysed using special software for: (i) analysis of complex mixtures, (ii) principal component analysis – PCA, (iii) detailed statistical analysis. Results Significant deferences in metabolic profiles between cultured and non‐cultured corneas were detected. The levels of several metabolites in cultured tissues were increased in comparison to the control. It was also shown that the levels of some of metabolites in samples cultured for 9‐14 days differed significantly from the samples kept for less than 9 days or 15‐20 days. Conclusion Corneal culturing results in the changes of the metabolic profile in tissue. The increase of the levels of the metabolites in organ within the second week of culturing may indicate increased enzymatic activity or/and increased response of cells toward stress factors in the tissue.
Intraocular lens features that affect PCO
Authors: SPALTON DJ 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To review IOL features that affect PCO Methods Review of clinical PCO studies using retroillumination imaging and objective quantification of PCO following cataract surgery and laboratory EM studies of IOL profile Results The optic diameter, haptic design and IOL material all affect PCO performance but the optic edge profile is the most important. Electron microscopy shows IOL edge is of variable profile in so called 'square edge' IOLs and this can be explained by the inevitable interrelationship of the limitations that material imposes on engineering, early closure of the capsular bag around the IOL seems to be important in preventing leakage of LECs into the retro lenticular space soon after surgery that later proliferate and form clinical PCO Conclusion PCO has a multifactorial pathogenesis. Improved IOL design can limit but does not prevent PCO
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Effect of bimatoprost on patients with primary open‐angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension who are nonresponders to latanoprost or timolol
Authors: BHATT UK , BANERJEE S 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To test the efficacy of bimatoprost 0.03% in lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients affected by primary open‐angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension who did not respond to treatment with latanoprost 0.005% or timolol 0.5%. Methods It was a retrospective case‐note review study with minimum 6 months follow‐up. Between May and October 2007, all patients who were not responsive to latanoprost or timolol (monotherapy) were prescribed bimatoprost. In all, 635 eyes of 330 patients (latanoprost, n=405; timolol, n=230) were included. Eligibility criteria: (1) Patients with original diagnosis of POAG, and (2) Nonresponsives‐ IOP reduction <20% on current treatment.Main outcome measure was IOP reduction. Results IOP data (mean and standard deviation) were as follows: baseline = 24.85 ± 2.05 mmHg, after latanoprost =21.23 ± 1.6 mmHg, after timolol = 21.5 ± 1.66. When switched over to bimatoprost, mean IOP =18.39 ± 2.32 mmHg. There was statistically significant reduction in the IOP on bimatoprost when compared to baseline, latanoprost, and timolol (P<0.0001). 12.34% of latanoprost and 13.04% of timolol nonresponders did not respond to bimatoprost as well. While 12.72% patients reported significant conjunctival hyperaemia, only 6.96% had to stop the drug because of it. Conclusion Bimatoprost is better in controlling intraocular pressures in those non‐responsive to latanoprost or timolol. Conjunctival hyperemia remains the most important cause of stopping the use of bimatoprost.
Inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor reduces scar formation after glaucoma filtration surgery
Authors: VAN BERGEN T , VAN DE VEIRE S , MOONS L , STALMANS I 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose In 30‐50%, glaucoma filtration surgery fails due to excessive postoperative scarring. This study was designed to elucidate the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in fibrosis after glaucoma surgery. In addition, the effects of the monoclonal humanized VEGF‐antibody bevacizumab (AvastinTM, Genentech) on fibroblast proliferation and outcome after trabeculectomy were studied. Methods The effect of VEGF and bevacizumab on Tenon fibroblasts in vitro was determined using a Tenon fibroblast mediated proliferation assay. The effect of the antibody was also investigated in vivo in a rabbit model for glaucoma surgery by measuring intra‐ocular pressure (IOP) and bleb area, and by (immuno‐)histological analysis of inflammation and fibrosis. VEGF‐concentration after bevacizumab‐administration was measured in samples of aqueous humor by ELISA. Results The proliferation of human and rabbit Tenon fibroblasts in vitro was stimulated by VEGF‐delivery and inhibited by bevacizumab‐administration. The antibody also significantly improved glaucoma surgery outcome, more specific the bleb area, in a rabbit model of trabeculectomy. Inflammation and collagen deposition were significantly reduced after bevacizumab treatment as compared to sham injections. VEGF was significantly reduced in aqueous humor after bevacizumab‐administration. Conclusion VEGF stimulates in vitro fibroblast proliferation suggesting that it plays a role in scarring after filtering surgery. Furthermore, the monoclonal humanized VEGF‐antibody reduces in vitro fibroblast proliferation and improves surgical outcome in vivo in a rabbit model of trabeculectomy.
Epigenetics, chromosome 3 and early detection of metastasis
Authors: VAN DER VELDEN PA , MAAT W , VERSLUIS M , KOUCH‐EL FILALI M , JAGER MJ 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose Uveal melanoma patients that present a tumor with monosomy 3 have a high propensity to develop metastases. Based on the two‐hit hypothesis, one might expect that the remaining copy of chromosome 3 contains a genetically‐modified gene and that loss of this gene is responsible for malignant progression. Identification of the gene and the genetic or epigenetic mechanisms that influence genes on chromosome 3 will enlighten the pathway(s) that determine uveal melanoma progression. In addition, studying epigenetics may result in useful molecular markers: whereas analysis of monosomy 3 is useful in primary tumors, it is useless in the detection of spreading tumor cells in the blood. We propose that a molecular marker in the form of a (tumor specific) genetic or epigenetic modification will be more helpful in this respect. Methods We have analyzed genes on chromosome 3 for epigenetic regulation that may suffice in non‐invasive testing for spreading tumor cells. Results We have identified RASSF1a methylation as a predictor of metastasis in uveal melanoma based on analysis of uveal melanoma tissues. In order to detect disseminating tumor cells in the bloodstream of uveal melanoma patients we have developed a very sensitive assay for methylation of RASSF1a. The detection limit of RASSF1a methylation exceeds 1/10,000 and in combination with isolation cell‐free DNA we are able to detect tumor DNA in the background of a vast excess of normal blood cells. With this assay we will test patient blood and validate the prognostic and diagnostic value of this marker. Conclusion With this assay we will test patient blood and validate the prognostic and diagnostic value of this marker.
Identification of molecular markers associated with high metastatic risk in uveal melanoma
Authors: SAULE S , LAURENT C , COUTURIER J , DECRAENE C , DESJARDINS L , SASTRE X , BARILLOT E , ALMEIDA A , PIPERNO‐NEUMANN S 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose Uveal melanoma occurs to the detriment of uveal melanocytes (located in the iris, ciliary body and choroid) and is the most common intraocular malignancy in adults, with 500‐600 new cases every year in France. The survival rate for uveal melanoma has not increased significantly in the last 20 years. Methods Gene expression profiling from the 63 tumours with a three years follow‐up (33 of which have metastasized) have been already performed, and genes selection using significant analysis of microarays performed between primary tumours that have metastasized (meta1) and those that do not have metastasised (meta0) showed that 1210 probe sets are differentially expressed using a FDR cut off of 5%. Gene expression profiling from 115 liver metastasis have also been performed and compared with the primary tumors. Results We used real‐time PCR to validate, using a set of selected genes the microarray expression values. The results obtained with 14 uveal melanoma showed a complete concordance with the Affymetrix microarrays. We have already obtained a set of genes involved in cell migration differentially expressed between primary uveal tumors that have, or not, metastazised. These genes included the PTK2 focal‐adhesion kinase, an important mediator of growth‐factor signalling, cell proliferation, cell survival and cell migration. We will also focuss on NEDD9, a gene described by oncogenomic analysis as involved in melanoma metastasis. In our study PTK2 and NEDD9 expression are anticorrelated, (p=0,015), PTK2 is found more expressed in the meta1 group. Conclusion we hope that deciphering the function of the selected genes will help to identify new pharmacological targets.
Duration of retinal detachment and central retinal artery hemodynamics: repercussion on logmar visual acuity
Authors: ROLDAN‐PALLARES M , MUSA AS , HERNANDEZ‐MONTERO J , BRAVO‐LLATAS C 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To analyze if duration of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment(RD)influences central retinal artery(CRA) hemodynamics with repercussion on LogMAR visual acuity (VA) Methods Sixty six healthy patients between 42 and 70 years with unilateral RD candidates for scleral buckling(SB)surgery(PVR<C3)as a first and single surgical procedure were prospectively selected. Central retinal artery(CRA) Doppler sonography parameters:peak systolic(PSV) and end diastolic(EDV) velocities and resistive index(RI); and IOP were measured before SB. Pearson's correlations were evaluated between duration and each CRA parameter and also between both variables and LogMAR VA(preoperative, postoperative and the difference: postoperative minus preoperative) Results Preoperative LogMAR VA showed significant(p<0.0001) linear correlations with duration of RD(r=0.615) and with CRA parameters: PSV(r=‐0.485), EDV(r=‐0.592), RI(r=0.509). Postoperative LogMAR VA, with (all with p<0.0001) duration (r=0.619), and with CRA parameters: PSV(r=‐0.637), EDV(r=‐0.711), RI(r=0.630). LogMAR VA Difference showed lower correlations with duration(r=0.085, p=0.0498)and with CRA parameters: PSV(r=‐0.266, p=0.031), EDV(r=‐0.236, p=0.057)and RI(r=0.238, p=0.054) than pre‐ and postoperative LogMAR VA. Conclusion Duration showed a higher correlation with preoperative LogMAR VA and a lower correlation with postoperative LogMAR VA and with LogMAR VA difference than the CRA parameters. (Supported by FIS 04/0446)
Idiopathic epiretinal macular membrane and cataract extraction : combined surgery vs consecutive surgery
Authors: CREUZOT CP , DUGAS B , OULED‐MOUSSA R , LAFONTAINE PO , GUILLAUBEY A , HUBERT I , BRON AM , BERROD JP 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To assess the functional and anatomical outcome of cataract and idiopathic epiretinal macular membrane extraction in combined and consecutive surgeries. Methods A retrospective nonrandomized study of 174 epiretinal macular membranes (ERM) and cataract extractions in 1 or 2 sessions was undertaken in two academic centers. Combined surgery (n=109) and successive surgery (n=65) were performed between 2005 and 2006. All patients underwent ERM and internal limiting membrane removal. We compared the near and far visual acuity and the central macular thickness with OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) for these procedures. Results Mean follow‐up was 8 months. The postoperative best‐corrected visual acuities significantly improved in both combined (near and far vision: p<0.0001) and consecutive surgeries (near and far vision: p<0.0001) groups. Similarly, the postoperative macular thickness significantly decreased in both groups (p<0.0001). We noted no statistical differences between the visual acuity improvement in both groups (near vision p=0.54; far vision p=0.38). Conclusion Combined and consecutive surgeries are effective procedures to treat idiopathic ERM. The functional and anatomical results are equivalent in these two procedures. However, combined surgery is more convenient for the patient.
A new method for fixation and explantation of epiretinal implants
Authors: IVASTINOVIC D , LANGMANN G , HORNIG R , RICHARD G , VELIKAY‐PAREL M 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose In epiretinal prosthesis surgery the fixation of the implant on the retina is generally performed with retinal tacks in order to achieve a firm and a sufficiently close attachment to the ganglion cells. However, this fixation does not allow the removal of the implant without potentially causing major trauma. We therefore developed a new fixation method for the implant with the goal of enabling a safe and less traumatic explantation procedure. Methods We implanted an inactive epiretinal device consisting of a polyimide strip and a calotte in 11 Göttinger minipigs. The concept of the new fixation method is to implant the tack first and fixate the implant on the tack with a silicone tube by using a special instrument developed for this purpose. Thus the implant is firmly attached to the retina and removal can be performed by simply splitting the silicone tube and lifting the implant from the tack while the tack remains in place. Results All animals were implanted successfully without major complications. At the end of the observation periods the retinal tack and the silicone tube fixating the implant on the tack were still in position. The explantation procedure was accomplished easily and without any complications. Conclusion This new implantation method ensures a firm fixation of the implant whilst also allowing explantation without trauma to the posterior eye segment.
Experimental models of orthotopic limbal transplantation in the mouse. Evaluation of allo‐ and xenograft survival and characterization of cytokine response
Authors: LENCOVA A , POKORNA K , ZAJICOVA A , FILIPEC M , HOLAN V 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose To establish and characterize experimental model of orthotopic limbal allo‐ and xenotransplantation in the mouse. Evaluation of graft survival and detection of intragraft cytokine response. Methods Syngeneic (BALB/c donors), allogeneic (B6 donors) and xenogeneic (rat Lewis) orthotopic limbal transplantation was performed in BALB/c mice. Recipients with intact or removed corneal epithelium were used. Limbal graft survival and reepitelization of the cornea were scored clinically (opacity, oedema, neovascularization) or by the presence of graft donor cells as detected by the Real‐time PCR. Expression of genes for IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐10, IFN‐γ and nitric oxide (NO) in the graft was detected by PCR. Results Significant differences in opacity, oedema and neovascularization were observed in syngeneic, allogeneic and xenogeneic limbal grafts and in the recipients´ corneal epithelium. The strongest rejection reaction was induced by limbal xenograft. No xenogeneic cells were detected in the graft 2 weeks after transplantation. The rejection reaction was accompanied by an abundant cytokine and NO response in the graft. Conclusion The experimental limbal transplantation in the mouse can be a useful model to characterize rejection reaction and to test various immunosuppressive treatments after limbal tissue or limbal stem cell transplantation.
The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital (RVEEH) technique of DSAEK Triple
Authors: BELTZ J , JHANJI V , SHARMA N , VAJPAYEE RB 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty, together with cataract surgery, constitutes the DSAEK triple procedure. This remains an evolving technique, with new modifications continuing to simplify the technique and improve its reproducibility. Methods At the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital (RVEEH), we have developed a sutureless technique of DSAEK triple using a glide to insert the donor lenticule. This procedure was performed in 4 eyes of 4 patients with Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy and cataract. Results All surgeries could be performed successfully. No intraoperative complications were encountered in any of the cases. At mean follow up of 3 months, all grafts were attached, clear, and well‐centered, with mean BCVA ≥6/18. There were no instances of graft dislocation or failure. Conclusion The RVEEH technique of Sutureless DSAEK Triple procedure is effective, successful and easy to perform. The use of a glide eliminates the need for folding of the tissue and allows atraumatic transplantation of the donor lenticule.
Full thickness cornea transplantation to lamellar bad managing extensive corneal perforations
Authors: ASOKLIS R , BUTKIENE L , JUODKAITE G , MAKSELIS A , PAJAUJIS M , CIMBALAS A 
Published: September 2008

Abstract Purpose Present surgical techniques for managing extensive corneal perforations. Methods In three eyes of the three patients full thickness to lamellar bad cornea transplantations were performed because of the cornea perforations. In all cases previous to corneal grafting amniotic membrane was transplanted in tectonic purposes since donor corneas were not urgently available. Surgical techniques of the amniotic membrane transplantation consisted of intrastromal fluffed–up and intrastromal blanket‐fold multilayered amniotic membrane transplantations. Full thickness corneal grafts were decided because of the extensive descemet defects in the bad of the ulcers. Previously to the surgeries clinical diagnosis of ocular rosacea, herpetic keratitis and keratitis sicca were establisched in every consequent case. Additional sistemic treatment was administered for ocular rosacea and herpetic keratitis patients. Results In all three cases multilayered amniotic membrane transplantation showed sufficient effect for restoration integrity of the globe for short period. Full thickness corneal transplantation to lamellar bad was effective surgical procedure. In one case double anterior chamber was observed for 1 month. Conclusion 1.Multilayer amniotic membrane transplantation can be as the bridge to cornea grafting, in cases, when donor corneas are not urgently available. 2. For extensive corneal perforations full thickness cornea transplantation to lamellar bed is reliable method of treatment. 3. If corneal perforations are related to systemic disease it is necessary to administer appropriate regimen of the adjacent systemic medical treatment.