MedWorm: Ophthalmology

Gene Therapy Proves Effective In Treating Blindness

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 23:00:00 +0100

Researchers from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have conducted a recent study, published in Science Translational Medicine which focuses on gene therapy for congenital blindness. The scientists were able to improve sight in 3 adult patients who had previously been treated in one eye. The researchers used the same treatment on the second eye of the patients, and they were able to see in low-light situations and also find their way around. There were no conflicting effects reported... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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More Success With Gene Therapy for Blindness

The Doctors Lounge - Health News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 22:00:00 +0100

Repeat treatment improves vision for three adults with rare eye disease (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Health News)

Eye Docs Have More Pain Than Family Medicine PhysiciansEye Docs Have More Pain Than Family Medicine Physicians

Medscape Today Headlines — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 20:23:23 +0100

Eye care physicians are at particular risk for hand/wrist, neck, and lower back pain compared with family medicine physicians. Several job factors contribute to their musculoskeletal symptoms. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Gene Therapy Improves Vision in Second Eye of 3 AdultsGene Therapy Improves Vision in Second Eye of 3 Adults

Medscape Today Headlines — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:27:34 +0100

The RPE65 gene delivered in an adeno-associated virus vector has safely improved vision in a second eye for patients with Leber congenital amaurosis type 2. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Gene Therapy Helps People With Inherited Blindness See

WebMD Health — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:20:03 +0100

Functionally blind for many years, Tami Morehouse calls the gene therapy that partially restored her sight nothing short of a miracle. (Source: WebMD Health)

Funding focuses on blinding eye disease

Modern Medicine — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Blinding eye diseases will be the focus of $350,000 in research funded by Research to Prevent Blindness at the John A. Moran Eye Center of the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, and in the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine. (Source: Modern Medicine)

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AAO, ASCRS offer guidance on femtosecond billing

Modern Medicine — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery have issued guidelines to assist ophthalmologists in determining their ability to charge Medicare and/or its beneficiaries for use of a femtosecond laser during cataract surgery. (Source: Modern Medicine)

New report details PBA-state partnerships

Modern Medicine — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The positive effects on vision health that have arisen from partnerships between Prevent Blindness America affiliates and their respective state public health entities are detailed in the organization’s latest report. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Dr. Ruth Williams becomes new AAO president

Modern Medicine — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Ruth D. Williams, MD, has begun her term as the 115th president of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. (Source: Modern Medicine)

How Technology Impacts Physical And Emotional Health

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 04:25:06 +0100

BOSTON (CBS) – We text. We tweet. We surf. Technology has changed the way we live our lives and for many of us, that means working more hours. Just ask Jeff Prag, who runs his own consulting company in Needham. “It starts probably about 5:30 in the morning. The phone is going off, checking emails and trying to respond to client needs,” he said. There are many days, according to Prag, that he is plugged into his business until midnight. That constant contact leaves him feeling exhausted. Fatigue is only part of the problem. There are a number of ways that technology can have an impact on our physical and emotional health. WBZ-TV’s Paula Ebben reports var videoCanvas = new WNVideoWidget("WNVideoCanvas", "wnVideo_6719190");videoCanvas.SetWidth(320);videoCanvas.SetHeight(240);v...

Systemic Human CR2-Targeted Complement Alternative Pathway Inhibitor Ameliorates Mouse Laser-Induced Choroidal Neovascularization

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 04:02:42 +0100

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics)

Do Glaucoma, Erectile Dysfunction Have a Common Cause?Do Glaucoma, Erectile Dysfunction Have a Common Cause?

Medscape Today Headlines — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:20:39 +0100

Men with erectile dysfunction have 3 times the risk for open-angle glaucoma as men without erectile dysfunction. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

New President Has Vision for the AAONew President Has Vision for the AAO

Medscape Today Headlines — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:36:19 +0100

Dr. Ruth Williams promises to safeguard the interests of ophthalmology providers in an environment that is witnessing rapid change to eye care delivery and compensation. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) 2012 Annual MeetingAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) 2012 Annual Meeting

Medscape Today Headlines — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:13:10 +0100

Read clinically focused news coverage of key developments from the meeting. Medscape Ophthalmology (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Patients With Keratoconus Benefit From Off-Label ProcedurePatients With Keratoconus Benefit From Off-Label Procedure

Medscape Today Headlines — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:53:25 +0100

Patients with keratoconus appear to benefit from corneal crosslinking, a procedure used in other countries but not yet been approved by the FDA. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

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Hemoglobin A1c, BP With Eye Exam for Diabetic RetinopathyHemoglobin A1c, BP With Eye Exam for Diabetic Retinopathy

Medscape Today Headlines — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:19:24 +0100

The Diabetic Retinopathy Clinical Research study continues to yield important information about diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, and associated conditions. More studies are planned. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Results From International Trial Of Second Sight's Argus II Retinal Prosthesis System Published In Ophthalmology

Medical Design Online News — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Second Sight Medical Products, Inc., the world's leading developer of retinal prostheses for the blind, announced positive interim results from a single-arm, controlled, prospective, multicenter clinical trial of its Argus II Retinal Prosthesis (Source: Medical Design Online News)

WOMENS DRY EYE (Pulsatilla, Sepia, Euphrasia, Alumina, Arsenicum Album, Nux Mosch, Zincum M) Liquid [Natural Ophthalmics, Inc]

DailyMed Drug Label Updates for the last seven days (since May 20, 2007 EST) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Updated Date: Feb 7, 2012 EST (Source: DailyMed Drug Label Updates for the last seven days (since May 20, 2007 EST))

Dr. Reza Dana awarded 2012 Chancellor's Award in Neurosciences and Ophthalmology

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary) Mass. Eye and Ear Cornea Service and Refractive Surgery Service Director Reza Dana, M.D., M.P.H., M.Sc., is the recipient of the 2012 Chancellor's Award in Neurosciences and Ophthalmology from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine at New Orleans. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

VEGF Inhibitors in the Management of Diabetic Macular EdemaVEGF Inhibitors in the Management of Diabetic Macular Edema

Medscape Today Headlines — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:00:00 +0100

This new study takes a look at whether VEGF inhibitors are a viable alternative to other options, such as photocoagulation, in the treatment of diabetic macular edema. The British Journal of Ophthalmology (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

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Design of an optofluidic biosensor using the slow-light effect in photonic crystal structures

Applied Optics — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:06:10 +0100

The authors propose a biosensor architecture based on the selective infiltration of photonic crystal (PhC) structures. The proposed sensor consists of a ring cavity coupled to an optofluidic slow-light waveguide in a PhC platform. A high potential sensitivity of 293??nm/refractive index unit is ... (Source: Applied Optics)

Bascom Palmer Eye Institute 50th Anniversary Scientific MeetingBascom Palmer Eye Institute 50th Anniversary Scientific Meeting

Medscape Today Headlines — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 21:19:22 +0100

Read clinically focused news coverage of key developments from the meeting. Medscape Ophthalmology (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Choroidal tuberculoma in a patient with ocular Behçet disease

International Ophthalmology — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:36:46 +0100

We report a case of choroidal tuberculoma associated with tuberculosis in a patient with ocular Behçet disease. A 25-year-old female with known ocular Behçet disease contracted tuberculosis 3 months earlier. She had been receiving methotrexate and oral steroids. Funduscopy of the left eye revealed a choroidal tuberculoma located superonasally to the optic disc. Fluorescein angiography showed a central area of hypofluorescence surrounded by a hyperfluorescent zone. Since she was already receiving antituberculosis treatment combined with oral steroids, the same treatment was continued. Diagnosis of the other diseases that may cause uveitis in patients with Behçet disease should not be missed. This is especially important since immunosuppressive drugs, that cause an increased in...

Birdbooker Report 208 | @GrrlScientist

Guardian Unlimited Science — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Compiled by an ardent bibliophile, this weekly report includes books about mosses, scientific art and stream ecology that have been newly published in North America and the UKBooks to the ceiling, Books to the sky,My pile of books is a mile high.How I love them! How I need them!I'll have a long beard by the time I read them. ~ Arnold Lobel [1933-1987] author of many popular children's books. Compiled by Ian "Birdbooker" Paulsen, the Birdbooker Report is a long-running weekly report listing the wide variety of nature, natural history, ecology, animal behaviour, science and history books that have been newly released or republished in North America and in the UK. The books listed here were received by Ian during the previous week, courtesy of these various publishing houses. New and Recent ...

Increased [3H]D‐aspartate release and changes in glutamate receptor expression in the hippocampus of the mnd mouse

Journal of Neuroscience Research — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 12:17:27 +0100

AbstractNeuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs) are a group of hereditary childhood diseases characterized mainly by lipopigment accumulation and a multisystemic pattern of symptoms including mental retardation, seizures, motor impairment, and blindness. The mnd mouse, carrying a mutation in the Cln8 gene, has been proposed as a model of epilepsy with mental retardation (EPMR, ornorthern epilepsy). We recently showed neuronal hyperexcitability and seizure hypersusceptibility in mnd mice. To elucidate the cellular mechanisms related to hippocampal hyperexcitability, the glutamatergic transmission and the expression of postsynaptic glutamate receptors were investigated in hippocampus. A significant increase in either spontaneous or KCl‐stimulated overflow of [3H]D‐aspartate was found in mn...

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Retina Expression and Cross-Species Validation of Gene Silencing by PF-655, a Small Interfering RNA Against RTP801 for the Treatment of Ocular Disease

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 04:08:57 +0100

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics)

Understanding metal doping for organic electron transport layers

Applied Physics Letters — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 01:21:21 +0100

Alexander Mityashin, David Cheyns, Barry P. Rand, and Paul Heremans This work concerns the physical mechanisms of metal n-doping in charge transport layers for optoelectronic devices, for which the doping level is constrained by transparency requirements so as to avoid parasitic absorption. Comparing various metal dopants, we claim that enhanced conductivity at low ... [Appl. Phys. Lett. 100, 053305 (2012)] published Wed Feb 1, 2012. (Source: Applied Physics Letters)

Orbital Aspergillosis: Voriconazole – The New Standard Treatment?

Karger Publishers — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 23:00:00 +0100

Case Rep Ophthalmol 2012;3:46–53 (DOI:10.1159/000336276) (Source: Karger Publishers)

Necrotizing Keratitis after Laser Refractive Surgery in Patients with Inactive Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Karger Publishers — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 23:00:00 +0100

Case Rep Ophthalmol 2012;3:54–60 (DOI:10.1159/000336567) (Source: Karger Publishers)

Guidelines Lead Femtosecond Laser Users to Billing Safe HarborsGuidelines Lead Femtosecond Laser Users to Billing Safe Harbors

Medscape Today Headlines — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 22:19:08 +0100

New guidelines aid femtosecond laser users in Medicare billing compliance. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

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How to Improve Refractive Outcomes After Cataract SurgeryHow to Improve Refractive Outcomes After Cataract Surgery

Medscape Today Headlines — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 21:56:39 +0100

What do you do when the refractive outcome after cataract surgery does not meet your target? Dr. Roger Steinert offers advice on how to best manage these cases and fine-tune the results. Medscape Ophthalmology (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

(1R,2S,4S,5R)-Cyclohexane-1,2:4,5-tetracarboxylic dianhydride

Acta Crystallographica Section E — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:54:50 +0100

The title compound, C10H8O6, a promising raw material to obtain colorless polyimides which are applied to microelectronic and optoelectronic devices, adopts a folded conformation in which the dihedral angle between the two anhydro rings is 55.15 (8)°. The central six-membered ring assumes a conformation intermediate between boat and twist-boat. In the crystal, molecules are linked by weak C—H...O interactions, forming a layer parallel to the bc plane. (Source: Acta Crystallographica Section E)

Interfacial electron transfer dynamics in dye-modified graphene oxide nanosheets studied by single-molecule fluorescence spectroscopy

RSC - Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys. latest articles — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:54:05 +0100

Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2012, Accepted ManuscriptDOI: 10.1039/C2CP23317G, PaperTakashi Tachikawa, Shi-Cong Cui, Mamoru Fujitsuka, Tetsuro MajimaGraphene oxide (GO) nanosheets have received a great deal of attention for a wide range of applications from optoelectronic devices to biological sensors. We now report a mechanistic study of...The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry (Source: RSC - Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys. latest articles)

Polymorphisms in the VEGF-A in polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy in a Korean population

Japanese Journal of Ophthalmology — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:53:15 +0100

Conclusions The rs833069 polymorphism in VEGF-A was significantly associated with the risk of PCV in a Korean population. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical InvestigationPages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s10384-012-0119-6Authors Dong Ho Park, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, #50 Samduk-dong-2-ga, Jung-gu, Daegu, 700-721 South KoreaIn Taek Kim, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, #50 Samduk-dong-2-ga, Jung-gu, Daegu, 700-721 South Korea Journal Japanese Journal of OphthalmologyOnline ISSN 1613-2246Print ISSN 0021-5155 (Source: Japanese Journal of Ophthalmology)

Wernekink commissure syndrome: a rare midbrain syndrome

Neurological Sciences — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:52:59 +0100

We present two cases of the Wernekink commissure syndrome with acute onset of bilateral cerebellar dysfunction confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. One patient presented internuclear ophthalmoplegia, but neither showed palatal tremor. It is notable that the bilateral cerebellar dysfunction may be ascribed to midbrain lesion involving the Wernekink commissure, and it may be the sole manifestation of the midbrain lesion. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Case ReportPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s10072-012-0966-4Authors Huayan Liu, Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, No.155, North Nanjing Street, 110001 Shenyang, ChinaLei Qiao, Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, ChinaZhiyi He, Department of N...

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Diagnostic pitfalls: a case of neurosarcoidosis mimicking tuberculous meningitis

Journal of Neurology — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:12:04 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-4DOI 10.1007/s00415-012-6429-2Authors Franziska Scheibe, Department of Neurology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, GermanyHolger Flick, UKIM-LKH Universitätsklinikum/Medizinische Universität Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 20, 8036 Graz, AustriaOliver Wengert, Department of Neurology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, GermanyDaniel Wittschieber, Department of Pathology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, GermanyGeorg Bohner, Department of Radiology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, GermanyPeter Ruokonen, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenb...

GDx VCC measurements and blue-on-yellow perimetry in ocular hypertension

Lasers in Medical Science — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:11:21 +0100

Abstract The aim of this work was to investigate the correlation between scanning laser polarimetry with variable corneal compensation (GDx VCC) parameters and blue-on-yellow perimetry (B/YP) indices in ocular hypertension (OHT). One eye each of 52 patients with OHT (with a normal visual field, a normal optic nerve, and an untreated IOP > 21 mmHg) was chosen. All patients were examined with the Octopus 101 automated perimetry dG2 program using the dynamic/normal strategy (white-on-white perimetry, W/WP), with the dG2 program using the dynamic strategy/BY method (blue-on-yellow perimetry, B/YP), and with GDx VCC. Seven of the 52 OHT patients had both B/YP visual field loss and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) defects with the GDx VCC measurements, and four patients ...

Rebamipide Increases Mucin-Like Substance Contents and Periodic Acid Schiff Reagent-Positive Cells Density in Normal Rabbits

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:31:23 +0100

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics)

What Are the Therapeutic Effects of High-Dose Intravenous Prednisolone in Methanol-Induced Toxic Optic Neuropathy?

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:31:21 +0100

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics)

Functional-Morphological Changes After Intravitreal Injection of Triamcinolone Acetonide for Macular Edema with Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:31:19 +0100

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics)

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In Vitro Coagulation Effects of Ophthalmic Doses of Bevacizumab

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:50:59 +0100

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics)

Differential Expression of Folate Receptor-Alpha, Sodium-Dependent Multivitamin Transporter, and Amino Acid Transporter (B (0, +)) in Human Retinoblastoma (Y-79) and Retinal Pigment Epithelial (ARPE-19) Cell Lines

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:50:57 +0100

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics)

Safety of Prophylactic Intracameral Moxifloxacin Use in Cataract Surgery

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:48:49 +0100

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics)

Ethiopia: Experts Pledge to Eradicate 'Neglected' Diseases

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 13:44:30 +0100

[IRIN] London - Ten little-known but debilitating diseases will be high on the agenda of the world's pharmaceutical chiefs, health ministers and donor governments after they pledged their support for a World Health Organization (WHO) initiative to wipe out guinea worm, river blindness, trachoma, leprosy, bilharzia and intestinal worms, among other "neglected" diseases. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Systemic immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) disease and idiopathic orbital inflammation; removing ‘idiopathic’ from the nomenclature?

Eye — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0100

Systemic immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) disease and idiopathic orbital inflammation; removing ‘idiopathic’ from the nomenclature? Eye advance online publication, February 3, 2012. doi:10.1038/eye.2012.4 Authors: D Lindfield, K Attfield & A McElvanney (Source: Eye)

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Diabetic retinopathy equity profile in a multi-ethnic, deprived population in Northern England

Eye — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0100

Authors: M Kliner, G Fell, C Gibbons, M Dhothar, M Mookhtiar & A Cassels-Brown (Source: Eye)

Consent for cataract surgery training: a national trainers’ survey

Eye — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0100

Consent for cataract surgery training: a national trainers’ survey Eye advance online publication, February 3, 2012. doi:10.1038/eye.2012.2 Authors: L Steeples, K Mercieca & K Smyth (Source: Eye)

Interferon-gamma release assay as a diagnostic test for tuberculosis-associated uveitis

Eye — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0100

Authors: M Ang, W Wong, C C L Ngan & S-P Chee (Source: Eye)

Cyclodiode laser in the treatment of acute angle closure

Eye — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0100

Authors: A Manna, P Foster, M Papadopoulos & W Nolan (Source: Eye)

To assess the results of the clinical outcome of high volume cataract operations performed by a fellow and a consultant in Moorfields Eye Hospital

Eye — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0100

Authors: R Girgis, T Salam & S Verma (Source: Eye)

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An inherited disorder with splenomegaly, cytopenias, and vision loss

American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

We describe a novel inherited disorder consisting of idiopathic massive splenomegaly, cytopenias, anhidrosis, chronic optic nerve edema, and vision loss. This disorder involves three affected patients in a single non‐consanguineous Caucasian family, a mother and two daughters, who are half‐sisters. All three patients have had splenectomies; histopathology revealed congestion of the red pulp, but otherwise no abnormalities. Electron microscopic studies of splenic tissue showed no evidence for a storage disorder or other ultrastructural abnormality. Two of the three patients had bone marrow examinations that were non‐diagnostic. All three patients developed progressive vision loss such that the two oldest patients are now blind, possibly due to a cone‐rod dystrophy. Characteristics o...

Optoacoustic monitoring of cerebral venous blood oxygenation though intact scalp in large animals

Optics Express — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Monitoring (currently invasive) of cerebral venous blood oxygenation is a key to avoiding hypoxia-induced brain injury resulting in death or severe disability. Noninvasive, optoacoustic monitoring of cerebral venous blood oxygenation can potentially replace existing invasive methods. To the best of ... (Source: Optics Express)

AFER announces 2011 Genentech Fellowship recipients

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology) ARVO Foundation for Eye Research congratulates the first AFER/Genentech Age-related macular Degeneration Fellowship recipients -- Balamurali K. Ambati, M.D., Ph.D., and Stephen H. Tsang, M.D., Ph.D. Each received $40,000 to support their age-related macular degeneration research and will be honored at the 2012 ARVO Annual Meeting on Sunday, May 6, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Blindness From Open-angle GlaucomaBlindness From Open-angle Glaucoma

Medscape Today Headlines — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 04:00:00 +0100

This study explains the criteria involved. BMC Ophthalmology (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Efficacy and Safety of Limbal-Conjunctival Autografting with Limbal Fixation Sutures after Pterygium Excision

Ophthalmologica — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 23:00:00 +0100

Ophthalmologica (DOI:10.1159/000334526) (Source: Ophthalmologica)

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Recovery of visual function in patient with melanoma-associated retinopathy treated with surgical resection and interferon-beta

Documenta Ophthalmologica — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:16:47 +0100

We report on a 33-year-old woman who was treated for a cutaneous malignant melanoma on a left finger by surgical resection and chemotherapy including local injections of interferon-beta in 2007. In March 2009, the melanoma had metastasized to her left hand, and she underwent metastasectomy and monthly local injections of interferon-beta. She developed shimmering vision, photopsia, blurred vision, and night blindness in her left eye in April 2009 and visited our clinic. At our initial examination, her best-corrected visual acuity was 1.5 OD and 1.2 OS, and ophthalmoscopy showed that the retina appeared normal in both eyes. However, there was a mild narrowing of retinal arteries in the left eye. Humphrey field analyzer (HFA) showed a reduction in retinal sensitivity within the central ...

The pathogenesis of early retinal changes of diabetic retinopathy

Documenta Ophthalmologica — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:16:47 +0100

Abstract Recent successful trials of antibodies to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in diabetic retinopathy implicate this cytokine as a major cause of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and diabetic macular oedema (DME). The mechanisms which cause VEGF to be over-expressed to cause the vasculopathy are not entirely clear. This review explores the earliest changes to the retina in DR and the factors that predispose or prevent DR, including sleep apnoea, receptor degenerations laser treatment and VEGF polymorphism. The review also presents the evidence that retinal hypoxia, existing in the earliest stages, causes DR. This hypoxia is much increased by dark adaptation, indicating a new and possibly superior therapy. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Review ArticlePages...

Lasers for the treatment of intraocular tumors

Lasers in Medical Science — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:15:44 +0100

Abstract Lasers are used extensively in ophthalmology for a variety of conditions, including many choroidal and retinal tumors. With technologic advances, current therapy attempts not only to maximize survival with globe-salvaging treatment, but also to preserve vision. Each neoplasm has different indications for primary and adjuvant therapy, as well as differing laser treatment protocols. Additionally, there are numerous laser applications available for use, including laser photocoagulation, transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT), and photodynamic therapy (PDT). The current review outlines the basic principles of laser treatment for intraocular tumors, focusing on the indications, treatment protocols, efficacy, and safety, while also presenting the latest advances in intraocu...

Sands of Sahara after LASIK in Avellino Corneal Dystrophy

Journal of Oncology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:24:07 +0100

We report the case of a patient diagnosed with Avellino corneal dystrophy (ACD) who developed diffuse interstitial keratitis following excimer laser insitu keratomileusis (LASIK). ACD is an autosomal dominant corneal dystrophy characterized by multiple asymmetric stromal opacities that impair vision. Accepted treatments for this condition include corneal transplantation and phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK). Our patient underwent LASIK at another institution to correct myopia. LASIK and photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) are usually contraindicated in ACD for the high risk of disease recurrence and postoperative complications. The patient came to our attention lamenting blurry vision, decreased visual acuity, and photophobia. Ophthalmologic examination revealed bilateral interstitial kerat...

Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant in Patients with Persistent Diabetic Macular Edema

Karger Publishers — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:48:14 +0100

Ophthalmologica (DOI:10.1159/000336225) (Source: Karger Publishers)

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Changes in the tear film and ocular surface after cataract surgery

Japanese Journal of Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:56:38 +0100

Conclusions The decrease in GCD, which was correlated with operative time, had not recovered at 3 months after cataract surgery. Therefore, microscopic ocular surface damage during cataract surgery seems to be one of the pathogenic factors that cause ocular discomfort and dry eye syndrome after cataract surgery. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical InvestigationPages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s10384-012-0117-8Authors Taehoon Oh, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, #62 Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, 150-713 KoreaYounhea Jung, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, #62 Yeouido-dong, Y...

GM-CSF protects rat photoreceptors from death by activating the SRC-dependent signalling and elevating anti-apoptotic factors and neurotrophins

Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:54:33 +0100

Conclusions The data suggest that GM-CSF is a potent therapeutic agent in photoreceptor degeneration caused by mutation of the receptor tyrosine kinase gene (Mertk), and may be also effective in other photoreceptor degeneration. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Basic SciencePages 1-14DOI 10.1007/s00417-012-1932-9Authors Maurice Schallenberg, Department of Experimental Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University Eye Hospital Münster and Interdisciplinary Centre for Clinical Research (IZKF), Domagkstrasse 15, 48149 Münster, GermanyPetar Charalambous, Department of Experimental Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University Eye Hospital Münster and Interdisciplinary Centre for Clinical Research (IZKF), Domagkstrasse 15, 48149 Münster, GermanySolon Thanos, Depar...

Long-term follow-up of invasive ocular surface squamous cell carcinoma treated with excision, cryotherapy, and topical mitomycin C

Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:54:32 +0100

Conclusion The combination of surgical excision, cryotherapy, and post-operative topical mitomycin-C was effective treatment for ocular surface invasive SCC in long-term follow-up. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory OncologyPages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s00417-012-1931-xAuthors Mohsen Bahmani Kashkouli, Eye Research Center, Rassoul Akram Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Sattarkhan-Niayesh Street, Tehran, 14455-364 IranAbtin Heirati, Eye Research Center, Rassoul Akram Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Sattarkhan-Niayesh Street, Tehran, 14455-364 IranFarzad Pakdel, Eye Research Center, Rassoul Akram Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Sattarkhan-Niayesh Street, Tehran, 14455-364 IranVictoria Kiavash, Eye Research Center, Rassoul Akr...

Evaluation of the Icare-ONE rebound tonometer as a self-measuring intraocular pressure device in normal subjects

Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:54:32 +0100

Conclusion The ICRBT was reliable in the hands of normal subjects, and may be used for self-monitoring of IOP. ICRBT measurements generally overestimated GAT measurements. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory GlaucomaPages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s00417-011-1875-6Authors Ioannis Halkiadakis, Ophthalmiatrion Athinon, Athens Eye Hospital, Konstadinoupoleos 17 Marousi, 15124 Athens, GreeceAimilianos Stratos, Ophthalmiatrion Athinon, Athens Eye Hospital, Konstadinoupoleos 17 Marousi, 15124 Athens, GreeceGeorge Stergiopoulos, Ophthalmiatrion Athinon, Athens Eye Hospital, Konstadinoupoleos 17 Marousi, 15124 Athens, GreeceEleni Patsea, Ophthalmiatrion Athinon, Athens Eye Hospital, Konstadinoupoleos 17 Marousi, 15124 Athens, GreeceSotiris Skouriotis, Ophthalmiatrion Athinon, Athens E...

Persistent bloody tears as the initial manifestation of conjunctival chloroma associated with chronic myelogenous leukemia

Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:54:29 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00417-011-1924-1Authors Sonya B. Shah, Department of Ophthalmology (SBS) and Ocular Oncology Service (DAR, SEL, CLS), Wills Eye Institute, 840 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USADavid A. Reichstein, Department of Ophthalmology (SBS) and Ocular Oncology Service (DAR, SEL, CLS), Wills Eye Institute, 840 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USASara E. Lally, Department of Ophthalmology (SBS) and Ocular Oncology Service (DAR, SEL, CLS), Wills Eye Institute, 840 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USACarol L. Shields, Department of Ophthalmology (SBS) and Ocular Oncology Service (DAR, SEL, CLS), Wills Eye Institute, 840 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA Journal Graefe's Archive for Cli...

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Microtrauma-induced recurrent hyphema and secondary glaucoma associated with chronic acetylsalicylic acid use

International Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:54:11 +0100

Abstract To report a case of microtrauma-induced recurrent hyphema and secondary glaucoma associated with voluntary chronic acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) use. A 43-year-old male developed advanced glaucoma in his right eye after a two-month follow-up period of recurrent microhyphema, which had been induced by strong eye-rubbing. In spite of topical and systemic antiglaucoma medication, as well as topical corticosteroid and cycloplegic drugs and bed rest under hospitalization, the hyphema and glaucoma were not controlled. His medical history revealed that he had been using ASA for 2 years in order to prevent heart attacks. We asked the patient to stop ASA intake and the hyphema cleared considerably on the third day after discontinuation of the drug. One week after stoppin...

Rasch analysis of the Indian vision function questionnaire.

The British Journal of Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsThe general functioning scale of the IND-VFQ consists of two separate unidimensional constructs: visual functioning and mobility. Both these Rasch scaled versions with good psychometric properties are effective tools for the assessment of visually impaired patients in India. PMID: 22308172 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The British Journal of Ophthalmology)

Ophthalmic features of CHARGE syndrome with CHD7 mutations

American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

AbstractColoboma and various ocular abnormalities have been described in CHARGE syndrome, although the severity of visual impairment varies from case to case. We conducted a multicenter study to clarify the ophthalmic features of patients with molecularly confirmed CHARGE syndrome. Thirty‐eight eyes in 19 patients with CHARGE syndrome and confirmed CHD7 mutations treated at four centers were retrospectively studied. Colobomata affected the posterior segment of 35 eyes in 18 patients. Both retinochoroidal and optic disk colobomata were bilaterally observed in 15 patients and unilaterally observed in 3 patients. The coloboma involved the macula totally or partially in 21 eyes of 13 patients. We confirmed that bilateral large retinochoroidal colobomata represents a typical ophthalmic featur...

The importance of advanced parental age in the origin of neurofibromatosis type 1

American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

AbstractVon Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis (NF1) is an autosomal dominant disorder with a prevalence about 1/3,000 (1/2,000–1/5,000 in various population‐based studies). About 30–50% of cases are sporadic, resulting from a new mutation. NF1 is fully penetrant by mid‐childhood, stigmata, and medical problems (neurological, dermatological, endocrine, ophthalmological, oncological) are highly variable. Advanced paternal age (APA) has been known to increase the risk of new germline mutations that contribute to the presence of a variety of genetic diseases in the human population. The trend in developed countries has been toward higher parental age due to various reasons. In a cross‐sectional study, in two university hospital centers, data on parental age of 103 children (41 female)...

Pilot randomized trial of a nanopulse retinal laser versus conventional photocoagulation for the treatment of diabetic macular oedema

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Although retinal thickness reduction was not unambiguously non‐inferior, in the short‐term, 2RT approximates the clinical efficacy of conventional photocoagulation, stabilizing visual acuity and providing motivation for larger trials assessing 2RT.© 2012 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2012 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (Source: Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology)

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Predictors of long‐term visual outcome after chemoreduction for management of intraocular retinoblastoma

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Long‐term ambulatory vision (> 20/200) was achieved in the majority (71%) of retinoblastoma containing eyes not requiring enucleation after treatment with chemoreduction and adjunctive therapy. Absence of foveolar involvement and greater number of tumors were the predictor of long‐ term visual outcome of 20/40 or better.© 2012 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2012 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (Source: Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology)

Fluids of the ocular surface: concepts, functions and physics

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ABSTRACTBackground: General adoption of the ocular surface (OS) concept has advanced the therapy of the external eye. Fresh physical findings have prompted new concepts, Examples, taken from each section of the text are: (1) Ever‐present lipid sealant bridges the palpebral fissure, capping the three‐dimensional ‘ocular surface’ sac. The muco‐aqueous pool is thus enclosed, secluded from atmosphere, evaporation mitigated. Hence, the OS is conceptually, a compartment. The term ‘dacruon’ (otherwise ‘tear film’) has been coined for the combined fluids of the ocular surface, viz: lipid film and muco‐aqueous pool. (MAP). (2) Investigative techniques of physics yield data on (say) surface tension and viscosity, and on functions such as: anchorage of dacruon base to the varie...

Long‐term outcomes of phacoemulsification cataract surgery performed by trainees and consultants in an Australian cohort

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: We found relatively comparable complication rates and visual outcomes after 2 years between patients operated on by ophthalmological trainees and those by consultants, in a cataract surgical cohort at Westmead Hospital.© 2012 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2012 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (Source: Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology)

Medial rectus Botox injection with pterygium excision and autograft as a novel technique for management of recurrent pterygium

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Lens thickness and associated factors

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In the rural Central Indian population, a thick lens was associated with higher age, male gender, high body stature, high body mass index, hyperopia, thick central cornea, shallow anterior chamber depth, and nuclear cataract. The data may be helpful to explain anatomic relationships of the anterior segment of the eye and to elucidate risk factors of diseases associated with ocular dimensions.© 2012 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2012 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (Source: Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology)

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Singapore Malay Eye Study: rationale and methodology of 6‐years follow‐up study (SiMES‐2)

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: SiMES‐2 will be one of the few follow‐up epidemiological eye studies among Asians and will determine the cumulative 6‐year incidence, progression, risk factors and impact of major eye diseases in Singaporean Malay adults.© 2012 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2012 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (Source: Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology)

Relationship between progression of visual field damage and choroidal thickness in eyes with normal‐tension glaucoma

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The decrease in the thickness of the choroid at 3 mm nasal from the fovea in normal‐tension glaucoma eyes may be associated with a progressive visual field loss. Thus, these findings suggest that choroidal abnormalities may play a role in the pathogenesis of normal‐tension glaucoma.© 2012 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2012 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (Source: Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology)

Incidence of visual impairment and blindness in indigenous Australians within central Australia: the Central Australian Ocular Health Study

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: This study has demonstrated rates of incident bilateral blindness and visual impairment among the indigenous Australian population within central Australia which are substantially higher than those from the non‐indigenous population. Services need to address the underlying causes of this incident vision loss to reduce visual morbidity in indigenous Australians living in central Australia.© 2012 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2012 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (Source: Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology)

Asian age‐related macular degeneration phenotyping study: rationale, design and protocol of a prospective cohort study

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: This study will provide in‐depth longitudinal data of the evolution of clinical features, risk factors, natural history and treatment pattern and response of Asian age‐related macular degeneration and polypoidal choroidovasculopathy, allowing unique insights into pathogenesis and the design of new treatment strategies.© 2012 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2012 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (Source: Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology)

Glaucoma in Timor‐Leste: an unmet need in diagnosis and treatment

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

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Glaucoma 360: 3-day event promises all-encompassing view

Modern Medicine — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Ophthalmology Times welcomes attendees of this weekend’s Glaucoma 360 for a “full-compass view” of the cure, catalysts, and care of glaucoma, Feb. 2 to 4. Three separate events—uniting research, industry, and philanthropy to find a cure for glaucoma—are planned for this gathering, which is presented by the Glaucoma Research Foundation, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to finding a cure for glaucoma, in association with Ophthalmology Times. All activities for the meeting will be held at the Palace Hotel. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Educating non‐medical prescribers

British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

SummaryIntroduction: The decade has seen developments in non‐medical prescribing with the introduction of prescribing rights for healthcare professionals. In this article, we focus on the education, training and practice of non‐medical prescribers in the UK. There are around 20,000 nurse independent prescribers, 2,400 pharmacist supplementary/independent prescribers, several hundred allied health professional supplementary prescribers and almost 100 optometrist supplementary/independent prescribers. Many are active prescribers managing chronic conditions or acute episodes of infections and minor ailments.Aims: Key aims of non‐medical prescribing are: to improve patient care; increase patient choice in accessing medicines; and make better use of the skills of health professional...

Vision and Hearing Loss in Older Adults May Coexist Vision and Hearing Loss in Older Adults May Coexist

Medscape Today Headlines — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 21:27:09 +0100

Investigators recommend screening for both impairments in an older population. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Central apnea after adenotonsillectomy in childhood: case report

Sleep and Breathing — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:12:46 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Case ReportPages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s11325-011-0634-6Authors Leila Azevedo de Almeida, Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences—Neurology Division, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, BrazilAlan Luiz Eckeli, Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences—Neurology Division, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, BrazilWilma Terezinha Anselmo Lima, Department of Ophthalmology, Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, CEP: 14048-900 Ribeirão Preto, SP, BrazilEdgard Camilo de Oliveira Filho, Cardiology Division, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University...

Grapes found to help prevent age-related blindness even better than lutein

NaturalNews.com — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 06:00:00 +0100

Lutein has long been hailed for its ability to help protect against, and even reverse, the devastating effects of age-related macular degeneration. But a new study published in the journal Free Radical Biology and Medicine suggests that grapes may work even better than... (Source: NaturalNews.com)

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Proteomics of Post-Traumatic Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy in Rabbit Retina Reveals Alterations to a Variety of Functional Proteins.

Current Eye Research — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Our results suggested that PVR is a complicated pathology process with alterations in expression of a variety of functional proteins rather than a single key protein. The data reported may be useful for further studies on pathogenesis of human PVR and for the screening of biomarkers to develop new potential therapeutic approaches. PMID: 22295879 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Eye Research)

Acute dacryocystitis in a 2-year old child caused by pantoea.

Orbit — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Zuberbuhler B, Carifi G, Leatherbarrow B Abstract A previously healthy 23-month-old girl was admitted for the management of an acute unilateral dacryocystitis following accidental contact with dog faeces. No periocular trauma was reported. Microbiological investigation showed a multiresistant strain of Pantoea species to be the responsible pathogen. The infection responded to a course of oral Clindamycin and Ciprofloxacin, in combination with Chloramphenicol eye drops. This is the first report of an acute dacryocystitis sustained by this microorganism. PMID: 22296230 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Orbit)

Postoperative infection rate after dacryocystorhinostomy without the use of systemic antibiotic prophylaxis.

Orbit — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Postoperative infection after external DCR without the use of systemic antibiotics is uncommon. Assuming that oral antibiotics are 80% effective at treating postoperative infection, for routine prophylaxis, the number needed to treat to prevent one infection would be 104. Taking the upper confidence limit of 6.6%, the lower limit of the number needed to treat would be 19. The one case of infection was treated successfully with oral antibiotics and resolved with a successful outcome. These results suggest that the routine use of systemic antibiotic prophylaxis in external DCR may not be justified. PMID: 22296231 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Orbit)

Cancellation of elective operations on the day of intended surgery in a Hong Kong hospital: point prevalence and reasons.

Hong Kong Med J — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS. Case cancellations were mainly due to facility factors, such as no operating room time being available. The odds of having no operating room time available varied between surgical specialties. PMID: 22302904 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Hong Kong Med J)

Does unintentional macular translocation after retinal detachment repair influence visual outcome? Response

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology)

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Visual function following photodynamic therapy for central serous chorioretinopathy: a comparison of automated macular microperimetry versus best‐corrected visual acuity

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: These data suggest that compared with microperimetry, best‐corrected visual acuity is underestimating the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy in the treatment of central serous chorio retinopathy. (Source: Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology)

Continuing Professional Development

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology)

Therapeutic targeting of the complement system in age‐related macular degeneration: a review

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

AbstractThe last decade has produced pivotal change in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying age‐related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of global blindness. In this time, the complement system has featured as a unifying theme for several elements of new evidence: initially, the discovery of complement proteins within drusen and subsequently, the association between AMD and mutations in various complement pathway genes, most notably complement factor H. Increasingly, a wealth of data are pointing towards a role for chronic local inflammation and complement activation in the patho‐aetiology of AMD. These findings have paved the way for the exploration of a new paradigm of therapy in AMD management; targeting of specific molecular constituents in the comple...

Intravitreous bevacizumab adult safety data: the evidence so far

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology)

Ophthalmic research in Australasia

Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology)

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A Function for Quality Evaluation of Retinal Vessel Segmentations

IEE Transactions on Medical Imaging — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Retinal blood vessel assessment plays an important role in the diagnosis of ophthalmic pathologies. The use of digital images for this purpose enables the application of a computerized approach and has fostered the development of multiple methods for automated vascular tree segmentation. Metrics based on contingency tables for binary classification have been widely used for evaluating the performance of these algorithms. Metrics from this family are based on the measurement of a success or failure rate in the detected pixels, obtained by means of pixel-to-pixel comparison between the automated segmentation and a manually-labeled reference image. Therefore, vessel pixels are not considered as a part of a vascular structure with specific features. This paper contributes a function for the ev...

Med Sci Monit 2012; 18(2):PR1-3 "A69S and R38X ARMS2 and Y402H CFH gene polymorphisms as risk factors for neovascular age-related macular degeneration in Poland – a brief report"

Medical Science Monitor — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The etiologic role in ARMD of A69S ARMS2 and Y402H CFH gene variants were confirmed in a Polish population for the first time. R38X variant of ARMS2 seems to be protective from wet ARMD. (Source: Medical Science Monitor)

Med Sci Monit 2012; 18(2):CR51-57 "Indocyanine green angiography in chronic central serous chorioretinopathy"

Medical Science Monitor — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: ICGA is a very useful examination that enables ophthalmologists to visualize choroidal changes due to chronic CSC, as well as to diagnose occult CNV in chronic CSC. (Source: Medical Science Monitor)

Quantum-coherent coupling of a mechanical oscillator to an optical cavity mode

Nature — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: E. Verhagen, S. Deléglise, S. Weis, A. Schliesser & T. J. Kippenberg Optical laser fields have been widely used to achieve quantum control over the motional and internal degrees of freedom of atoms and ions, molecules and atomic gases. A route to controlling the quantum states of macroscopic mechanical oscillators in a similar fashion is to exploit the parametric coupling between optical and mechanical degrees of freedom through radiation pressure in suitably engineered optical cavities. If the optomechanical coupling is ‘quantum coherent’—that is, if the coherent coupling rate exceeds both the optical and the mechanical decoherence rate—quantum states are transferred from the optical field to the mechanical oscillator and vice versa. This tra...

Gene therapy: An eye for gene repair

Nature — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Nature 482, 7383 (2012). doi:10.1038/482008e Gene therapy in dogs can reverse retinal defects that lead to blindness in humans.William Beltran and Gustavo Aguirre at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia and their group targeted a form of retinitis pigmentosa. This is a common cause of blindness in which mutations (Source: Nature)

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