Abstract:AIM:To characterize the disease-causing mutations in a Chinese family with ectopia lentis syndrome (ELS).METHODS:Patients and their family members were given complete physical, ophthalmic, and cardiovascular examinations. Genomic DNA samples were extracted from the peripheral blood of the pedigree members and 100 healthy controls. Mutation screening was performed in the fibrillin-1 (FBN1) gene by bi-directional sequencing of the amplified products. The mutation was analyzed using two bioinformatics methods.RESULTS:A novel heterozygous c.305G>A mutation in exon 3 of FBN1 was detected. As a result of this change, a highly conserved cysteine residue was replaced by a tyrosine residue (p.C102Y). Another mutation was found in the same exon (c.303T>C), which did not change the amino acid sequence. Both mutations were discovered in each affected individual, but not in the unaffected family members, or in 100 ethnically matched controls. A bioinformatics analysis predicted that mutation p.C102Y would affect protein function.CONCLUSION:In the first epidermal growth factor-like module, we identified a novel FBN1 mutation (p.C102Y), which caused ELS in the family. Our study presented a unique phenotype, including some distinct ophthalmic findings, such as hypoplasia of the iris and anisometropia. Our results expanded the mutation spectrum of FBN1 and enriched the overall knowledge of genotype-phenotype correlations due to FBN1 mutations.

Abstract:AIM:To evaluate the therapeutic effect of Nodinhibit-1 on alkali-burn-induced corneal neovascularization (CNV) and inflammation.The nucleotide-binding oligomerzation domain 1 (NOD1) is a potent angiogenic gene.METHODS:The alkali-burned rat corneas (32 right eyes) were treated with eye drops containing Nodinhibit-1 or phosphate buffered solution (PBS, PH 7.4) only, four times per day. CNV and inflammation were monitored using slit lamp microscopy, and the area of CNV was measured by formula. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) was determined by Western blot analysis. The TUNEL assay was used to assess the corneal apoptosis cells.RESULTS:Alkali-burn-induced progressive CNV and inflammation in the cornea. After treatment for 7d and 14d, there were statistically significant differences in the CNV areas and inflammatory index on that between two group(P＜0.05, respectively). Epithelial defect quantification showed a significant difference between the two groups at days 4 and 7 after the alkali burns (P＜0.05). The apoptotic cells on days 1, 4, and 7 between the two groups showed significant differences at all time points (P<0.05, respectively). Compared to that in control group, the protein level of VEGF expression was significantly reduced whereas the PEDF expression was increase in the Nodinhibit-1 groups on day 14 (P＜0.05, respectively＝.CONCLUSION:Topical application of 10.0 μg/mL Nodinhibit-1 may have potential effect for the alkali burn-induced CNV and inflammation. The effect of Nodinhibit-1 on CNV may be by regulation the equilibrium of VEGF and PEDF in the wounded cornea.

Abstract:AIM:To observe the expression of vitamin D receptor (VDR) in human specimen and immortalized human corneal epithelium cells (HCEC) when challenged with fusarium solani. Moreover, we decided to discover the pathway of VDR expression. Also, we would like to detect the expression of cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide (CAMP) in the downstream pathway of VDR.METHODS:Immunohistochemistry was used to examine the VDR expression in HCEC from healthy and fungal keratitis patients. Real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was performed to observe the messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) change of VDR when immortalized HCEC were challenged with fusarium solani for different hours. CAMP was detected at both mRNA and protein levels.RESULTS:We found out that the VDR expression in fusarium solani keratitis patients’ specimen was much more than that in healthy people. The mRNA and protein expression of VDR increased when we stimulated HCEC with fusarium solani antigen (P<0.01) and it could be inhibited by toll like receptor 2 (TLR2) monoclonal antibody. The CAMP expression was decreased because of fusarium solani antigen stimulation (P<0.01).CONCLUSION:The VDR expression can be increased via TLR2/1-VDR pathway while the CAMP expression is decreased by the stimulation of fusarium solani antigen.

Abstract:AIM:To investigate the expression of transcription factors Slug in human lens epithelial cells (HLECs) undergoing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) induced by connective tissue growth factor (CTGF).METHODS: HLECs were treated with CTGF of different concentrations (20, 50 and 100 ng/mL) or without CTGF (control) for 24h. The morphological changes of HLECs were analysed by microscopy. The expression and cellular localization of Slug was evaluated by immumo-fluorescence. Expressions of Slug, E-cadherin and alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were further determined by Western blot analysis. RESULTS: HLECs showed spidle fibrolasts-like characteristics and loosely connected each other after CTGF treatment. The immuno-fluorescence staining indicated that Slug was localized in the nuclei and its expression was induced by CTGF. The relative expressions of Slug protein were 1.64±0.11, 1.96 ±0.03, 3.12 ±0.10, and 4.08±0.14, respectively, in response to control group and treatment with CTGF of 20, 50 and 100 ng/mL (F=443.86, P<0.01). The increased Slug protein levels were correlated well with up-expression of α-SMA (0.78±0.05, 0.85±0.06, 2.17±0.15, 2.86±0.10; F=449.85, P<0.01) and down-expression of E-cadherin (2.50±0.11, 1.79±0.26, 1.05±0.14, 0.63±0.08; F=101.55, P<0.01). CONCLUSION: Transcription factor Slug may be involved in EMT of HLECs induced by CTGF in vitro.

Abstract:AIM:To determine whether small interfering RNA (siRNA) of PGC-1α could inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and tube formation in human retinal vascular endothelial cells (hRVECs).METHODS:hRVECs transfected with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) siRNA were incubated for 24h and then placed into a normoxic (20%, O2) or hypoxic (1%, O2) environment for another 16h. PGC-1α mRNA and protein levels were detected by real-time PCR and Western blot. VEGF mRNA and protein levels were detected by real-time PCR and ELISA. Cell proliferation was evaluated by BrdU incorporation assay. Forty-eight hours after siRNA transfection, hRVECs were planted into Matrigel-coated plates and cultured under normoxic (20%, O2) or hypoxic (1%, O2) conditions for another 48h. The tube formation of hRVECs was observed under an optical microscope and quantified by counting the number of branch points and calculating the total tube length.RESULTS: PGC-1α mRNA and protein levels were significantly reduced by PGC-1α siRNA, and VEGF mRNA and protein levels also decreased significantly. The percentage of BrdU-labeled cells in siPGC-1α groups were significantly decreased compared with control siRNA groups under normoxia and hypoxia in cell proliferation assay. In the tube formation assay, PGC-1α siRNA treated cells formed significantly fewer tubes.CONCLUSION: Blocking PGC-1α expression can inhibit VEGF expression in hRVECs and inhibit their ability to form tubes under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions.

Abstract:AIM:To determine the effect of different concentrations of the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors tacrine and donepezil on retinal protection in AChE^+/- mice (AChE knockout mice) of various ages.METHODS:Cultured ARPE-19 cells were treated with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) at concentrations of 0, 250, 500, 1000 and 2000 μmol/L and protein levels were measured using Western blot. Intraperitoneal injections of tacrine and donepezil (0.1 mg/mL, 0.2 mg/mL and 0.4 mg/mL) were respectively given to AChE^+/- mice aged 2mo and 4mo and wild-type S129 mice for 7d; phosphate buffered saline (PBS) was administered to the control group. The mice were sacrificed after 30d by in vitro cardiac perfusion and retinal samples were taken. AChE-deficient mice were identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis using specific genotyping protocols obtained from the Jackson Laboratory website. H&E staining, immunofluorescence and Western blot were performed to observe AChE protein expression changes in the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell layer.RESULTS:Different concentrations of H2O2 induced AChE expression during RPE cell apoptosis. AChE^+/- mice retina were thinner than those in wild-type mice (P<0.05); the retinal structure was still intact at 2mo but became thinner with increasing age (P<0.05); furthermore, AChE^+/- mice developed more slowly than wild-type mice (P<0.05). Increased concentrations of tacrine and donepezil did not significantly improve the protection of the retina function and morphology (P>0.05).CONCLUSION:In vivo, tacrine and donepezil can inhibit the expression of AChE; the decrease of AChE expression in the retina is beneficial for the development of the retina.

Abstract:AIM: To evaluate whether protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) contributed to initiate human retinal pigment epithelium cells (A)-19 migration and investigate the signaling pathways involved in this process. METHODS:ARPE-19 cells were cultured and treated with the siRNA-PTP1B. Expression of PTP1B was confirmed by quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). AG1478 [a selective inhibitor of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)] and PD98059 (a specific inhibitor of the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase) were used to help to determine the PTP1B signaling mechanism. Western blot analysis verified expression of EGFR and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) in ARPE-19 cells. The effect of siRNA-PTP1B on cell differentiation was confirmed by immunostaining for α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and qRT-PCR. Cell migration ability was analyzed by transwell chamber assay.RESULTS: The mRNA levels of PTP1B were reduced by siRNA-PTP1B as determined by qRT-PCR assay. SiRNA-PTP1B activated EGFR and ERK phosphorylation. α-SMA staining and qRT-PCR assay demonstrated that siRNA-PTP1B induced retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells to differentiate toward better contractility and motility. Transwell chamber assay proved that PTP1B inhibition improved migration activity of RPE cells. Treatment with AG1478 and PD98059 abolished siRNA-PTP1B-induced activation of EGFR and ERK, α-SMA expression and cell migration.CONCLUSION: PTP1B inhibition promoted myofibroblast differentiation and migration of ARPE-19 cells, and EGFR/ERK signaling pathway played important role in migration process.

Abstract:AIM: To describe and compare the differences in electroretinographic responses between two different age groups of adult Dark Agouti (DA) rats and to better understand the effect of age on retinal histology and function.METHODS: The electroretinographic responses of two different age groups of adult DA rats were compared. Animals were divided into younger adult DA rats 10-12wk (n=8) and older adult DA rats 17-19wk (n=8). Full field electroretinography (ERG) was recorded simultaneously from both eyes after dark adaption and light adaption and parameters including the positive scotopic threshold response (pSTR), negative scotopic threshold response (nSTR), scotopic a-wave, b-wave, photopic a-wave, b-wave and photopic negative response (PhNR) were compared between groups.RESULTS: The older adult rats displayed lower stimulation thresholds of the STRs (pSTR and nSTR) and higher amplitudes of pSTR, scotopic a-wave and b-wave, photopic b-wave and PhNR amplitudes, with shorter implicit times. Photopic a-wave amplitudes were however higher in the younger adult rats.CONCLUSION:In summary, for the rod system, photoreceptor, bipolar cell and RGC activity was enhanced in the older adult rats. For the cone system, RGC and bipolar cell activity was enhanced, while photoreceptor activity was depressed in the older adult rats. Such age-related selective modification of retinal cell function needs to be considered when conducting ophthalmic research in adult rats.

Abstract:AIM: To expose rat retinal Müller cells to 530 nm monochromatic light and investigate the influence of varying light illumination times on basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) expression.METHODS: Three groups of rat retinal Müller cells cultured in vitro under a 530 nm monochromatic light were divided into 6, 12 and 24h experimental groups , while cells incubated under dark conditions served as the control group. The bFGF and TGF-β1 mRNA expression, protein levels and fluorescence intensity of the Müller cells were analyzed.RESULTS:ThebFGF mRNA expression and protein levels were significantly upregulated in Müller cells in all three experimental groups compared with the control group (P<0.05), while that of TGF-β1 was downregulated (P<0.05). Also, bFGF expression was positively correlated, but TGF-β1 expression was negatively correlated with illumination time. The largest changes for both cytokines were seen in the 24h group. The changes in bFGF and TGF-β1 fluorescence intensity were highest in the 24h group, and significant differences were observed among the experimental groups (P<0.05).CONCLUSION:The expressions ofbFGF and TGF-β1 changed in a time-dependent manner in Müller cells exposed to 530 nm monochromatic light with 250 lx illumination intensity. Müller cells might play a role in the development of myopia by increasing bFGF expression or decreasing TGF-β1 expression. Changes in cytokine expression in retinal Müller cells may affect monochromatic light-induced myopia.

Abstract:AIM:To identify the genetic defects in a Chinese family with achromatopsia.METHODS:A 2.5-year-old boy, who displayed nystagmus, photophobia, and hyperopia since early infancy, was clinically evaluated. To further confirm and localize the causative mutations in this family, targeted region capture and next-generation sequencing of candidate genes, such as CNGA3, CNGB3, GNAT2, PDE6C, and PDE6H were performed using a custom-made capture array.RESULTS:Slit-lamp examination showed no specific findings in the anterior segments. The optic discs and maculae were normal on fundoscopy. The unaffected family members reported no ocular complaints. Clinical signs and symptoms were consistent with a clinical impression of autosomal recessive achromatopsia. The results of sequence analysis revealed two novel missense mutations in CNGA3, c.633T>A (p.D211E) and c.1006G>T (p.V336F), with an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance.CONCLUSION: Genetic analysis of a Chinese family confirmed the clinical diagnosis of achromatopsia. Two novel mutations were identified in CNGA3, which extended the mutation spectrum of this disorder.

Abstract:AIM: To evaluate outcomes of combined pars plana vitrectomy and Baerveldt glaucoma implant (PPV-BGI) placement for refractory glaucoma.METHODS: The medical records of 92 eyes (89 patients) that underwent PPV-BGI were retrospectively reviewed, including 43 eyes with neovascular glaucoma (NVG) and 49 eyes with other types of glaucoma (non-NVG).RESULTS: Outcome measures were visual acuity (VA), intraocular pressure (IOP), glaucoma medical therapy, complications, and success [VA>hand motions (HM), IOP≥6 mm Hg and ≤21 mm Hg, no subsequent glaucoma surgery]. Cumulative success rates for the non-NVG group and NVG group were 79% and 40% at 1y, respectively (P=0.038). No difference in the rates of surgical success were found between pars plana and anterior chamber tube placement. Preoperative IOP (mean±SD) was 30.3±11.7 mm Hg in the Non-NVG group and 40.0±10.6 mm Hg in the NVG group, and IOP was reduced to 15±9.5 mm Hg in the non-NVG group and 15±10.5 mm Hg in the NVG at 1y. Number of glaucoma medications (mean±SD) decreased from 2.7±1.3 in the non-NVG group and 2.8±1.3 in the NVG group preoperatively to 0.76±1.18 in the non-NVG group and 0.51±1.00 in the NVG group at 1y. Improvement in VA of ≥2 Snellen lines was observed in 25 (27%) eyes, although only 33% of non-NVG eyes and 2.3% of NVG eyes maintained VA better than 20/200 at 1y. Nonclearing vitreous hemorrhage was the most common postoperative complication occurring in 16 (17%) eyes, and postoperative suprachoroidal hemorrhages developed in 5 (5.4%) eyes.#$NLCONCLUSION: PPV-BGI is a viable surgical option for eyes with refractory glaucoma, but visual outcomes are frequently poor because of ocular comorbidities, especially in eyes with NVG. The location of tube placement does not influence surgical outcome and should be left to the discretion of the surgeon.

Abstract:AIM: To examine the occurrence of commonly known clinical signs of keratoconus (KC), i.e. Fleischer ring, prominent corneal nerves and thinning, among unaffected family members of KC patients and healthy control individuals.METHODS: Data of both eyes of 117 relatives of KC patients having no manifest disease based on videokeratography indices (KC relatives), and 142 controls were used for Pearson correlation and t-test statistics. Correlation of Fleischer ring, prominent corneal nerves and central pachymetry data were tested with each other and with videokeratography indices (KSI, KISA, 3 and 6 mm Fourier asymmetry, and I-S). RESULTS: A moderate correlation was found between Fleischer ring and all examined topographical indices. Most important correlation was present with 6 mm Fourier asymmetry, and corneal pachymetry (r=0.272, P<0.001; r=-0.234, P=0.027, respectively). Similar correlations were found with prominent corneal nerves (r=0.234, P<0.001 for 6 mm Fourier asymmetry and r=-0.235, P=0.0265 for pachymetry). KC family members who exhibited Fleischer ring or prominent nerves had thinner and more asymmetric corneas than those without Fleischer ring or prominent corneal nerves (P<0.05 for pachymetry and topographic indices with t-test and Mann-Whitney rank sum test). Though rarely, Fleischer ring and prominent corneal nerves occurred among normal controls, indicating the existence of forme fruste cases in the normal population. Control subjects, who had corneal Fleischer ring or prominent nerves had corneas more similar to KC than other controls (t-test:increased KSI and KISA, P=0.048 and 0.012, respectively).CONCLUSION: In KC family members and healthy individuals, Fleischer ring and prominent corneal nerves are associated with features of KC and may suggest a possibility of forme fruste KC. Searching for the possible presence of Fleischer ring or prominent nerves on the cornea may help in the decision whether or not to diagnose subclinical KC in a borderline case.

Abstract:AIM:To assess the safety and cosmetic efficacy of a new multiple noncontinuous transepithelial puncture technique for tattooing a decompensated cornea.METHODS:It was anon-comparative clinical case series study.The study examines 33 eyes in 33 patients with total corneal opacity due to corneal decompensation, which developed following intraocular surgery.Corneal tattooing was performed using the multiple noncontinuous transepithelial puncture technique (i.e. pointage). The safety of this new surgical strategy was assessed by occurrence of adverse events for the follow-up period. The cosmetic efficacy was determined by the patient’s cosmetic satisfaction and independent observer’s opinion about patient appearance.RESULTS:Seven women and 26 men were included in the study. The mean age was 46.4±17.5y (range:7-67). In total, 30 of 33 patients (91%) reported cosmetic satisfaction within the follow-up period. Only 3 patients (9%) required additional tattooing due to cosmetic unsatisfaction. Cosmetic outcomes were analyzed and classified as excellent or good in 13 (39%) and 17 (52%) patients, respectively. No serious adverse events developed, except delayed epithelial healing in 3 cases.CONCLUSION:The cosmetic outcomes of the multiple noncontinuous transepithelial puncture technique for corneal tattooing were good. The safety of this method is higher than conventional procedures. This new procedure also provides improved cost-effectiveness and safety over current corneal tattooing techniques.

Abstract:AIM:To determine risk factors of regression and undercorrection following photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) in myopia or myopic astigmatism.METHODS: A case-control study was designed in which eyes with an indication for re-treatment (RT) were defined as cases; primary criteria for RT indication, as assessed at least 9mo postoperatively, included an uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) of 20/30 or worse and a stable refraction for more than 3mo. Additional considerations included optical quality symptoms and significant higher order aberrations (HOAs). Controls were chosen from the same cohort of operated eyes which had complete post-operative follow up data beyond 9mo and did not need RT. The cohort included patients who had undergone PRK by the Tissue-Saving (TS) ablation profile of Technolas 217z100 excimer laser (Bausch & Lomb, Rochester, NY, USA). Mitomycin C had been used in all of the primary procedures.RESULTS:We had 70 case eyes and 158 control eyes, and they were comparable in terms of age, sex and follow-up time (P values:0.58, 1.00 and 0.89, respectively). Pre-operative spherical equivalent of more than -5.00 diopter (D), intended optical zone (OZ) diameter of less than 6.00 mm and ocular fixation instability during laser ablation were associated with RT indications (all P values <0.001). These factors maintained their significance in the multiple logistic regression model with odd ratios of 6.12, 6.71 and 7.89, respectively.CONCLUSION:Higher refractive correction (>-5.00 D), smaller OZ (<6.00 mm) and unstable fixation during laser ablation of PRK for myopia and myopic astigmatism were found to be strong predictors of undercorrection and regression.

Abstract:AIM: To evaluate the clinical findings of toxic keratopathy associated with abuse of topical anesthetics and the treatment efficacy of amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT).METHODS: Fifteen eyes of 10 patients with abuse of topical anesthetics were included in this study. The data collected included patients’ demographic information, initial best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), clinical findings, time to AMT, duration of epithelization, additional treatments, posttreatment BCVA, and the results of psychiatric examination.RESULTS:All patients were male, with the mean age of 37.9±5.4y. The patients had received 0.5% proparacaine hydrochloride due to pain resulting from foreign bodies, such as welding flash burns and car battery explosions, for a mean of 18.2±12.4d. The mean initial BCVA of the patients was 0.069±0.100. All patients had persistent epithelial defects, stromal infiltration, ring ulcer, and corneal edema. Initially, medical treatment was attempted in all cases. Because of severe pain, persistent epithelial defects and progressing stromal thinning did not improve with medical treatment, thus, the patients underwent AMT. The mean posttreatment BCVA of the patients was 0.33±0.27. All of them, except for two patients, showed improved visual acuity. One patient underwent evisceration for corneal melting and endophthalmitis in another center, and one patient underwent evisceration for severe pain of unknown origin. All 5 patients who consented to a psychiatric examination had depression, had personality disorder, and used tobacco.CONCLUSION:AMT appears to be an effective method for pain relief, rapid epithelial and stromal healing; however, visual prognosis is still poor despite medical and surgical interventions.

Abstract:AIM: To compare the effectiveness of brimonidine/timolol fixed combination (BTFC) and dorzolamide/timolol fixed combination (DTFC) in the management of short-term intraocular pressure (IOP) increase after phacoemulsi?cation surgery.METHODS: Eighty eyes of 80 patients undergoing phacoemulsi?cation and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation were randomly assigned into three groups. Group 1 consisted of 28 eyes and represented the control group. Group 2 consisted of 25 eyes undergoing phacoemulsi?cation surgery and BTFC was instilled at the end of surgery. Group 3 consisted of 27 eyes undergoing phacoemulsi?cation surgery and DTFC was instilled at the end of surgery. IOP was measured preoperatively and 6, 24h and 1wk postoperatively.RESULTS: There was no statistically signi?cant difference in preoperative baseline IOP among the three groups (P=0.84). However, IOP was significantly lower in groups 2 and 3 compared to the control group (P<0.05 for all comparisons) at all postoperative visits. There was no significant difference between groups 2 and 3 at any visit. Eight eyes (28.6%) in the control group, two (8%) in Group 2 and one (3.7%) in Group 3 had IOP >25 mm Hg at 6h after surgery (P=0.008). However, IOP decreased and was >25 mm Hg in only one eye in each group at 24h after surgery.CONCLUSION: BTFC and DTFC have similar effects in reducing increases in IOP after phacoemulsification surgery and can both be recommended for preventing IOP spikes after such surgery.

Abstract:AIM:To determine the effectiveness of pharmacological and interventional treatment of hypotony and flat anterior chamber (FAC) resulting from glaucoma filtration surgery. METHODS:We retrospectively examined the medical records of fifty-two trabeculectomy patients (52 eyes) who developed postoperative hypotony and FAC. The management and associated complications of hypotony, changing intraocular pressure (IOP) and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were evaluated. RESULTS:Of the 52 patients with hypotony, 29 (56%) had a grade 1 FAC, 21 (40%) had a grade 2 FAC, and only 2 had a grade 3 FAC. There was no significant difference between the mean preoperative IOP and the mean IOP at three and six months after surgery. Thirteen eyes (25%) required antiglaucomatous medication three months after surgery. The mean BCVA at 6mo after surgery was significantly reduced as compared with the mean preoperative BCVA. CONCLUSION:Hypotonia and FAC following trabeculectomy are associated with troublesome complications that require pharmacological and/or surgical treatment. Thus, close follow-up is essential for affected patients.

Abstract:AIM:To investigate the effects of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) on the main numerical parameters of anterior segment with Pentacam rotating Scheimpflug camera in patients with ocular hypertension (OHT) and primary open angle glaucoma (POAG).METHODS: Pentacam measurements of 45 eyes of 25 (15 females and 10 males) patients (12 with OHT, 13 with POAG) before and after SLT were obtained. Measurements were taken before and 1 and 3mo after SLT. Pentacam parameters were compared between OHT and POAG patients, and age groups (60y and older, and younger than 60y).RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 57.8±13.9 (range 20-77y). Twelve patients (48%) were younger than 60y, while 13 patients (52%) were 60y and older. Measurements of pre-SLT and post-SLT 1mo were significantly different for the parameters of central corneal thickness (CCT) and anterior chamber volume (ACV) (P<0.05). These parameters returned back to pre-SLT values at post-SLT 3mo. Decrease of ACV at post-SLT 1mo was significantly higher in younger than 60y group than 60y and older group. There was no statistically significant difference in Pentacam parameters between OHT and POAG patients at pre- and post-treatment measurements (P>0.05).CONCLUSION:SLT leads to significant increase in CCT and decrease in ACV at the 1^st month of the procedure. Effects of SLT on these anterior segment parameters, especially for CCT that interferes IOP measurement, should be considered to ensure accurate clinical interpretation.

Abstract:AIM:To determine the long-term effects of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) on intraocular pressure (IOP) and the number of medications used up to 5y following treatment in glaucoma patients receiving maximally tolerated medical therapy (MTMT).METHODS:The Wills Eye Hospital Glaucoma Research Center retrospectively reviewed the charts of glaucoma patients who underwent SLT after receiving MTMT. Eyes that did not achieve their target pressure within 3mo following SLT were excluded from the study. Changes in mean IOP and number of glaucoma medications used were analyzed at 1, 3, and 5y following SLT.RESULTS:Seventy-five eyes of 67 patients were included in the study. Fifteen eyes that received SLT failed to achieve their target pressure within 3mo and were excluded from the study. The average follow-up time was 37.4mo (±14.4). Mean IOP was significantly reduced 1y after treatment (P=0.005). It was also reduced 3, 5y after treatment without reaching statistical significance (P=0.20 and P=0.072, respectively). There was a significant decrease in mean number of medications used 1, 3, 5y after treatment (P<0.001, P<0.001, and P=0.039, respectively). In the span of 5y, 2 eyes (2.7%) underwent repeat SLT, 7 eyes (9.3%) underwent glaucoma surgery and an additional 3 eyes (4.0%) underwent both.CONCLUSION:SLT significantly reduced the number of glaucoma medications used 5y following treatment in glaucoma patients receiving MTMT. SLT may delay operating-room surgery.

Abstract:AIM: To compare the safety and efficacy of phacoemulsification and small incision cataract surgery (SICS) in patients with uveitic cataract.METHODS:In aprospective, randomized multi-centric study, consecutive patients with uveitic cataract were randomized to receive phacoemulsification or manual SICS by either of two surgeons well versed with both the techniques. A minimum inflammation free period of 3mo (defined as less than 5 cells per high power field in anterior chamber) was a pre-requisite for eligibility for surgery. Superior scleral tunnel incisions were used for both techniques. Improvement in visual acuity post-operatively was the primary outcome measure and the rate of post-operative complications and surgical time were secondary outcome measures, respectively. Means of groups were compared using t-tests. One way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used when there were more than two groups. Chi-square tests were used for proportions. Kaplan Meyer survival analysis was done and means for survival time was estimated at 95% confidence interval (CI). A P value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.RESULTS:One hundred and twenty-six of 139 patients (90.6%) completed the 6-month follow-up. Seven patients were lost in follow up and another six excluded due to either follow-up less than six months (n=1) or inability implant an intraocular lens (IOL) because of insufficient capsular support following posterior capsule rupture (n=5). There was significant improvement in vision after both the procedures (paired t-test; P<0.001). On first postoperative day, uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) was 20/63 or better in 31 (47%) patients in Phaco group and 26 (43.3%) patients in SICS group (P=0.384). The mean surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) was 0.86±0.34 dioptres (D) in the phacoemulsification group and 1.16±0.28 D in SICS group. The difference between the groups was significant (t-test, P=0.002). At 6mo, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) was 20/60 or better in 60 (90.9%) patients in Phaco group and 53 (88.3%) in the manual SICS group (P=0.478). The mean surgical time was significantly shorter in the manual SICS group (10.8±2.9 versus 13.2±2.6min) (P<0.001). Oral prednisolone, 1 mg/kg body weight was given 7d prior to surgery, continued post-operatively and tapered according to the inflammatory response over 4-6wk in patients with previously documented macular edema, recurrent uveitis, chronic anterior uveitis and intermediate uveitis. Rate of complications like macular edema (Chi-square, P=0.459), persistent uveitis (Chi-square, P=0.289) and posterior capsule opacification (Chi-square, P=0.474) were comparable between both the groups.CONCLUSION:ManualSICS and phacoemulsification do not differ significantly in complication rates and final CDVA outcomes. However, manual SICS is significantly faster. It may be the preferred technique in settings where surgical volume is high and access to phacoemulsification is limited, such as in eye camps. It may also be the appropriate technique for uveitic cataract under such circumstances.

Abstract:AIM: To compare the effect of cataract surgery in renal transplantation and hemodialysis patients.METHODS: We evaluated 51 eyes of 31 renal transplantation patients, 41 eyes of 29 hemodialysis patients and 45 eyes of 32 normal control patients who received phacoemulsification and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation from January, 2000 to August, 2014 in the Beijing Friendship Hospital. Each individual underwent a blood routine and a kidney function examination. Routine ophthalmologic examination included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), a slit-lamp examination to detect cataract type, determination of intraocular pressure, a corneal endothelial count, and fundus examination. All patients received phacoemulsification and an IOL implantation.CONCLUSION: This study showed that the PSC was more in the renal transplantation patients. BCVA was better and fundus lesions were less frequent in the renal transplantation group than in the hemodialysis group after cataract surgery. The multiple linear regression was showed that the Hb was positively correlated with postoperative BCVA, while Cr was negatively correlated with postoperative BCVA. These results may act as indicators in predicting visual acuity for the renal transplantation and hemodialysis patients.

Abstract:AIM: To evaluate the value of quantitative diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in assessing the axonal and myelin damage of the optic nerves and optic radiations in patients with chronic primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) by using high-field magnetic resonance (MR) imaging (3T).METHODS:Twenty patients with bilateral chronic PACG and twenty age- and sex matched disease-free control subjects were enrolled. Conventional MRI and DTI were performed on all subjects using 3T MR scanner. Mean diffusivity (MD), fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusivities (AD) and radial diffusivities (RD) of each optic nerve and each optic radiation were measured by using post-processing software of DTI studio 2.3, and then compared between left eyes and right eyes and between patients group and control group. The paired-sample t- test were used．RESULTS: There was no abnormality in the shape and signal intensity of the optic nerves and optic radiations in patients group and control group on the conventional MRI. No significant differences were observed in the FA, MD, AD and RD between the right and left optic nerves and optic radiations within patients group and control group (P＞0.05). The optic nerves and optic radiations of patients with chronic PACG, as compared with control subjects, had significantly higher MD, AD, RD and significantly lower FA (P<0.05).CONCLUSION:The diffusivity of optic nerves and optic radiations in chronic PACG group showed abnormal and diffusivity parameters could be used markers of axonal and myelin injury in glaucoma.

Abstract:AIM:To compare the dynamic changes of anterior segment parameters especially iris morphology induced by pharmacologic mydriasis between angle closure suspects and normal controls.METHODS:The study group comprised 19 eyes of 19 angle closure suspects and 19 eyes of 19 age- and sex-matched normal open-angle eyes. Pentacam and optical coherence tomography measurements before and 30min after instillation of compound tropicamide eye drop were performed and compared. Biometric evaluations of iris tomography and anterior chamber angle were estimated by a customized image-processing software.RESULTS:Baseline axial length, iris cross sectional area and volume did not differ significantly between angle closure suspects and normal controls. Angle closure suspects had smaller pupil size, narrower anterior segment dimension and axial length, thinner iris with greater curve in comparison with normal controls. Pharmacologic mydriasis led to significant increments in iris thickness at 750 μm, anterior chamber depth and volume, whereas significant decrements in iris curve, cross sectional area and volume in both groups. Angle opening distance at 500 μm was increased significantly in normal controls (from 0.465±0.115 mm to 0.539±0.167 mm, P=0.009), but not in angle closure suspects (from 0.125±0.100 mm to 0.145±0.131 mm, P=0.326). Iris volume change per millimeter of pupil dilation (△IV/△PD) decreased significantly less in angle closure suspects than normal controls (-2.47±1.33 mm² vs -3.63±1.58 mm², P=0.019). Linear regression analysis showed that the change of angle opening distance at 500 μm was associated most with the change of central anterior chamber depth (β=0.841, P=0.002) and △IV/△PD (β=0.028, P=0.002), followed by gender (β=0.062, P=0.032).CONCLUSION:Smaller iris volume decrement per millimeter of pupil dilation is related significantly with the less anterior angle opening in angle closure suspects after pharmacologic mydriasis. Dynamic iris change may be as a prospective indicator of iris compressibility and angle closure glaucoma.

Abstract:AIM:To investigate the oxidative stress status of the aqueous humor and serum of patients with pseudoexfoliation (PEX) syndrome and pseudoexfoliative glaucoma (PEG) and to measure paraoxonase (PON) and arylesterase (ARE) levels.METHODS: A total of 78 patients were enrolled in the study, with 26 patients in each separate group. The patients were divided into three groups:the first group entailed PEX syndrome patients, while the second group consisted of patients with PEG and the third group involved patients with no additional systemic diseases, other than the diagnosis of cataract as control. Total oxidative stress (TOS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), PON, and ARE levels in aqueous humor and serum were measured.RESULTS: TAC, PON and arylesterase levels in aqueous humor and serum of the PEX syndrome and PEG patients were significantly decreased compared with control group (P<0.05). TOS values were higher in patients with PEX syndrome and PEG than controls (P<0.05). TAC, PON and ARE levels of aqueous humor did not differ significantly between the PEX syndrome and PEG groupsCONCLUSION: These findings are potentially of significance and add to the growing body of evidence for oxidative stress in PEX syndrome and PEG. Decreased antioxidant defense and increased oxidative stress system may play an important role in the pathogenesis of PEX syndrome and PEG.

Abstract:AIM: To investigate the serum level of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and healthy control subjects. The disruption in the tight balance of neuroinflammatory and neuroprotective processes in an immune-privileged site like retina is proposed to contribute to the pathogenesis of AMD. One of the main neuroprotective mediators in the central nervous system is BDNF with its serum level notably affected in several neurodegenerative disorders.METHODS:Thirty-six patients with AMD and 36 age-matched controls were enrolled in this study. The serum level of BDNF was measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Results were analyzed to compare case and control values. Comparisons were also made between the BDNF level of wet- vs dry-AMD, and male vs female patients and controls. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Student’s t-test were employed to analyze the data.RESULTS: The mean BDNF levels in AMD group were significantly higher than the control group. Furthermore, our analysis revealed greater BDNF values in all AMD subgroups compared to controls (P=0.004, 0.005, 0.001 and 0.02 for male wet-AMD, male dry-AMD, female wet-AMD and female dry-AMD vs controls, respectively). The BDNF level however did not vary between wet- and dry-AMD patients (P=0.74). While within-group comparisons in males and females of AMD and control groups did not show any difference in BDNF (P=0.16, 0.64 and 0.85 for wet-AMD, dry-AMD and control groups, respectively), between-group data showed a higher mean BDNF in both male and female AMD subjects than their peer controls.CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that the serum BDNF level is different in patients with AMD as compared to subjects without AMD. Future attempts should be done to unravel beneficial or deleterious effect of this neurotrophin in the pathogenesis of AMD.

Abstract:AIM:To characterize the human retinal vessel arborisation in normal and amblyopic eyes using multifractal geometry and lacunarity parameters.METHODS:Multifractal analysis using a box counting algorithm was carried out for a set of 12 segmented and skeletonized human retinal images, corresponding to both normal (6 images) and amblyopia states of the retina (6 images).RESULTS:It was found that the microvascular geometry of the human retina network represents geometrical multifractals, characterized through subsets of regions having different scaling properties that are not evident in the fractal analysis. Multifractal analysis of the amblyopia images (segmented and skeletonized versions) show a higher average of the generalized dimensions (Dq) for q=0, 1, 2 indicating a higher degree of the tree-dimensional complexity associated with the human retinal microvasculature network whereas images of healthy subjects show a lower value of generalized dimensions indicating normal complexity of biostructure. On the other hand, the lacunarity analysis of the amblyopia images (segmented and skeletonized versions) show a lower average of the lacunarity parameter Λ than the corresponding values for normal images (segmented and skeletonized versions).CONCLUSION:The multifractal and lacunarity analysis may be used as a non-invasive predictive complementary tool to distinguish amblyopic subjects from healthy subjects and hence this technique could be used for an early diagnosis of patients with amblyopia.

Abstract:AIM: To evaluate the correlation among changes in fundus autofluorescence (AF) measured using infrared fundus AF (IR-AF) and short-wave length fundus AF (SW-AF) with changes in spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and fluorescein angiography (FA) in central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).METHODS:Two hundred and twenty consecutive patients with CSC were included. In addition to AF, patients were assessed by means of SD-OCT and FA. Abnormalities in images of IR-AF, SW-AF, FA were analyzed and correlated with the corresponding outer retinal alterations in SD-OCT findings.RESULTS:Eyes with abnormalities on either IR-AF or SW-AF were found in 256 eyes (58.18%), among them 256 eyes (100%) showed abnormal IR-AF, but SW-AF abnormalities were present only in 213 eyes (83.20%). The hypo-IR-AF corresponded to accumulation of sub-retinal liquid, collapse of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) or detachment of RPE with or without RPE leakage point in the corresponding area. The hyper-IR-AF corresponded to the area with loss of the ellipsoid portion of the inner segments and sub-sensory retinal deposits or focal melanogenesis under sensory retina. The hypo-SW-AF corresponded to accumulation of sub-retinal liquid or atrophy of RPE. The hyper-SW-AF associated with sub-sensory retinal deposits, detachment of RPE and focal melanogenesis.CONCLUSION:IR-AF was more sensitive than SW-AF and FA for identifying pathological abnormalities in CSC. The characteristics of IR-AF in CSC were attributable to the modification of melanin in the RPE. IR-AF should be used as a common diagnostic tool for identifying pathological lesion in CSC.KEYWORDS:central serous chorioretinopathy; fluorescein angiography; fundus autofluorescence; optical coherence tomography

Abstract:AIM:To evaluate the effect of misalignment on the measurements of retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT).METHODS:A total of 42 eyes from 21 healthy young subjects underwent RNFL measurements with RTVue spectral-domain OCT (Optovue Inc., Fremont, California, USA). Two baseline measurements with perfectly aligned central circle to the borders of the optic nerve and four misaligned measurements which were misaligned towards to four quadrants were taken. The differences in RNFL between the baseline and misaligned measurements were analyzed with a new algorithm called Helvacioglu reproducibility index (HRI) which is designed to measure the reproducibility of the scans by evaluating the RNFL changes in the four main quadrants.RESULTS:The average RNFL scores of the first two baseline measurements have good correlation (c=0.930) and good reproducibility scores (0.15±0.07). Superior misaligned measurements had significantly lower superior quadrant score and higher inferior quadrant score, similar nasal and little higher temporal scores (P1, P2<0.001, P3=0.553, P4=0.001). Inferior misaligned measurements had significantly higher superior quadrant score and lower inferior quadrant score with similar temporal and little lower nasal scores (P1, P2<0.001, P3=0.315, P4=0.016). Nasal misaligned measurements had significantly higher temporal quadrant score and lower nasal quadrant score with little lower superior and inferior scores (P1, P2, P4<0.001, P3=0.005). Temporal misaligned measurements had significantly higher nasal quadrant score and lower temporal quadrant score with similar superior and little higher inferior scores (P1, P2<0.001, P3=0.943, P4=0.001).CONCLUSION:Good alignment of the central circle to the borders of optic nerve is crucial to have correct and repeatable RNFL measurements. Misalignment to a quadrant resulted in falsely low readings at that quadrant and falsely high readings at the opposite quadrant.

Abstract:AIM:To compare and correlate optic nerve head parameters obtained byHeidelberg retina tomograph (HRT) with short-wavelength automatic perimetry (SWAP) indices in eyes with ocular hypertension (OHT).METHODS: One hundred and forty-six patients with OHT included in the present study. All subjects had reliable SWAP and HRT measurements performed within a 2wk period. The eyes were classified as normal/abnormal according to visual field criteria and Moorfields regression analysis (MRA). Correlations between visual field indices and HRT parameters were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient (r).RESULTS:Twenty-nine eyes (19.9%) had SWAP defects. Twenty-nine eyes (19.9%) were classified as abnormal according to global MRA. Six eyes (4.1%) had abnormal global MRA and SWAP defects. The k statistic is 0.116 (P=0.12) indicating a very poor agreement between the methods. No statistical significant correlation between HRT and SWAP parameters was detected.CONCLUSION:SWAP defects may coexist with abnormalities of optic disc detected by HRT in eyes with OHT. In most eyes, however, the two methods detect different glaucoma properties.

Abstract:AIM:To describe a series of Italian patients with orbital metastasis focusing on the outcomes in relation to the different primary site of malignancy.METHODS:Retrospective chart review of 93 patients with orbital metastasis collected in a tertiary referral centre in a period of 38y and review of literature.RESULTS:Out of 93 patients, 52 were females and 41 were males. Median age at diagnosis was 51y (range 1 to 88y). The patients have been divided into four groups on the basis of the year of diagnosis. The frequency of recorded cases had decreased significantly (P<0.05) during the last 9.5y. Primary tumor site was breast in 36 cases (39%), kidney in 10 (11%), lung in 8 (9%), skin in 6 (6%); other sites were less frequent. In 16 case (17%) the primary tumor remained unknown. The most frequent clinical findings were proptosis (73%), limited ocular motility (55%), blepharoptosis (46%) and blurred vision (43%). The diagnosis were established by history, ocular and systemic evaluation, orbital imaging studies and open biopsy or fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). Treatment included surgical excision, irradiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or observation. Ninety-one percent of patients died of metastasis with an overall mean survival time (OMST) after the orbital diagnosis of 13.5mo.CONCLUSION:Breast, kidney and lung are the most frequent primary sites of cancer leading to an orbital metastasis. When the primary site is unknown, gastrointestinal tract should be carefully investigated. In the last decade a decrease in the frequency of orbital metastasis has been observed. Surgery provides a local palliation. Prognosis remains poor with a OMST of 13.5mo ranging from the 3mo in the lung cancer to 24mo in the kidney tumor.

Abstract:AIM:To investigate the original protopathy, direct indications, clinical characteristics, complications of orbit plants and visual conditions of eye enucleation/evisceration.METHODS: A retrospective study of 573 eyes removed (573 inpatients) at Ophthalmology Department in a tertiary care center of China from January 1993 to December 2012 was completed.RESULTS:Cases underwent removal of the eye accounted for 2.15% of total ophthalmology inpatients, whose annual frequency declined from 3.80% to 0.52%. There were 167 eyes (29.14%) being enucleated and 406 (70.86%) eviscerated. Annual proportion of evisceration rose from 16.67% in 1993 to 90.48% in later years. Trauma was the top one (65.62%) in original protopathies followed by neoplasm (13.44%) and ocular infections (5.76%). Phthisis bulbi (45.20%) was the most common direct indication, succeeded by malignant tumor (12.57%), loss/unreconstructed of intraocular tissues due to trauma (11.00%), untreatable inflammation (9.60%), intractable glaucoma (8.55%) and sclerocorneal staphyloma (5.24%). Exenteration was underwent in 20 (25.97%) cases (40% for recurrent carcinoma). Following evisceration, secondary prosthesis implantation was more and earlier, implant exposure occurred in less but earlier and infection and extraction/exchange of implants were more than those following enucleation. Male, phthisis bulbi, evisceration and secondary implantation meant lower risk of implant exposure; eyes removed within 24h following trauma was an independent risk factor. There were 14.37% of eyes with vision of light perception at least as been removed. In the residual contralateral eyes, low vision accounted 5.58% and blindness 3.14%.CONCLUSION:Ocular trauma, tumor and infections were great threats to eyeball preservation. Early and effective controlling of any original protopathies was vital. Generally evisceration presented more superior and safe outcomes than enucleation did. Visual conditions of the sufferers should be focused on.

Abstract:AIM: To evaluate the intra-operator repeatability in healthy subjects using the WAM-5500 auto-kerato/refractometer and the iTrace aberrometer, to compare the refractive values and the subjective refraction obtained with both devices and to determine which of these three spherocylindrical corrections allows the subject to achieve the best visual comfort. METHODS: Forty-two non-presbyopic healthy eyes of 42 subjects were enrolled in this prospective study. Refractive values were compared, evaluating the repeatability, the relationship between the methods and the best visual comfort obtained. RESULTS: Sphere, cylinder and axis results showed good intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC); the highest ICC was obtained using the spherical refraction with the autorefractometer and the aberrometer, achieving levels of 0.999 and 0.998, respectively. The power vector (PV) was calculated for each refraction method, and the results indicated that there were no statistically significant differences between them (P>0.05). Direct comparison of PV measurements using the three methods showed that aberrometer refraction gave the highest values, followed by the subjective values; the autorefractometer gave the lowest values. The subjective method correction was most frequently chosen as the first selection. Equal values were found for the autorefractometer and the aberrometer as the second selection. CONCLUSION: The iTrace aberrometer and the WAM-5500 auto-kerato/refractometer showed high levels of repeatability in healthy eyes. Refractive corrections with the aberrometer, the autorefractometer and subjective methods presented similar results, but spherocylindrical subjective correction was the most frequently selected option. These technologies can be used as complements in refractive evaluation, but they should not replace subjective refraction.

Abstract:AIM: To determine the effect of pH, osmolality, and buffering system on the oxygen permeability (Dk) of soft contact lenses.METHODS: Two hydrogel lenses (nelfilcon A and etafilcon A) and 2 silicone hydrogel lenses (lotrafilcon A and balafilcon A) were used in the study. These lenses were incubated in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and borate-buffered saline (BBS) solutions adjusted by 0.8 pH increments to a pH in the range of 5.8-9.0 or in hypotonic (280 mOsmol/kg), isotonic (310 mOsmol/kg) and hypertonic (380 mOsmol/kg) PBS solutions. Polarographic method was used for measuring the Dk and lenses were stacked as 4 layers to correct the boundary effect.RESULTS: Dk values of all contact lenses measured in BBS solutions were more stable than those in PBS solutions. Especially the etafilcon A lens showed a relative big change compared with other types of contact lenses at the same conditions. When the osmolality of PBS solution increased from hypotonic to hypertonic, Dk of all contact lenses decreased. Variations in Dk existed depending on lens materials, etafilcon A lens was the most affected and nelfilcon A was the least affected by osmolality.CONCLUSION:From the result obtained, it is revealed that Dk of contact lenses is changed by the pH, osmolality, and buffering condition of tear. Thus, Dk of contact lens can be varied by the lens wearers'' physiological and/or pathological conditions.

Abstract:AIM:To evaluate intra-session repeatability and reproducibility of optical quality parameters measured at objective and subjective best focuses in a double-pass system.METHODS: Thirty Chinese healthy adults (19 to 40 years old) meeting our inclusion criterion were enrolled in the study. After a basic eye examination, two methods of optical quality measurement, based on subjective and objective best focuses were performed using the Optical Quality Analysis System (OQAS) with an artificial pupil diameter of 4.0 mm.RESULTS: With each method, three consecutive measurements of the following parameters:the modulation transfer function cutoff frequency (MTFcutoff), the Strehl^2D ratio, the OQAS values (OVs) at contrasts of 100%, 20%, 9% and the objective scatter index (OSI) were performed by an experienced examiner. The repeatability of each method was evaluated by the repeatability limit (RL) and the coefficient of repeatability (COR). Reproducibility of the two methods was evaluated by intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) and the 95% limits of agreement (Bland and Altman analysis). Thirty subjects, seven females and twenty three males, of whom 15 right eyes and 15 left eyes were selected randomly for recruitment in the study. The RLs (percentage) for the six parameters measured at objective focus and subjective focus ranged from 8.44% to 15.13% and 10.85% to 16.26%, respectively. The CORs for the two measurement methods ranged from 8.27% to 14.83% and 10.63% to 15.93%, respectively. With regard to reproducibility, the ICCs for the six parameters of OQAS ranged from 0.024 to 0.276. The 95% limits of agreement obtained for the six parameters (in comparison of the two methods) ranged from -0.57 to 42.18 (MTFcutoff), -0.01 to 0.23 (Strehl^2D ratio), -0.02 to 1.40 (OV100%), -0.10 to 1.75 (OV20%), -0.14 to 1.80 (OV9%) and -1.46 to 0.18 (OSI).CONCLUSION:Measurements provided by OQAS with either method showed a good repeatability. However, the results obtained from the two different measurement methods showed a poor reproducibility. These findings suggest that it might be best to evaluate patients’ optical quality by OQAS using the best focus as chosen automatically by the instrument.

Abstract:AIM: To evaluate the medical quality of ophthalmologic perioperative period during 2010-2012 in our hospital.METHODS:The relevant data of perioperative period were collected in our hospital during 2010-2012, and the medical quality of perioperative period was evaluated by using the traditional evaluation indexes and adverse events. Whereby, the traditional indicators include vision changes, improving of intraocular pressure, diagnostic accordance rate before and after operation, cure improvement rate, successful rescue rate, and incidence of surgical complications, etc. Adverse events are associated with ophthalmologic perioperative events including pressure sores, postoperative wound infection, drug adverse events, and equipment related adverse events.RESULTS:There were 1483, 1662 and 1931 ophthalmic operations in our hospital in the year 2010, 2011 and 2012, respectively. From traditional index analysis, the proportions of vision improvement for each year were 96.43%, 96.76% and 97.32%, respectively; the rates of intraocular pressure improvement were 87.50%, 85.72% and 90.17%, respectively (P <0.05); the diagnostic accordance rates before and after operation were 99.86%, 99.94% and 99.90%, respectively; cure improvement rates were 99.73%, 99.93% and 99.84%, respectively; the successful rescue rates were 82.98%, 81.46% and 76.66%, respectively; the complications incidence rates were 18.44%, 17.52% and 17.97%, respectively. The negative factor analysis results showed that:among all the patients of ophthalmic surgeries in our hospital during 2010 and 2012, only one case of postoperative wound infection was found in 2011, and also only one case of tumbling in 2010. The adverse drug events for each year were 1 case (0.07%), 2 cases (0.12%), and 4 cases (0.21%), respectively; the medical device adverse events for each year were 3 cases (0.20%), 5 cases (0.30%), and 6 cases (0.31%), respectively. Noticeably, only one case with postoperative infection of endophthalmitis was found in 2011. Moreover, no pulmonary infection or pulmonary embolism occurred during the three years. The perioperative adverse event rates for each year were 0.34% (5/1483), 0.48% (8/1662) and 0.52% (10/1931), respectively. Though incidence was rising during the three years period, no statistical significance was observed (P>0.05). It is the same case with drugs and medical devices adverse events (P >0.05).CONCLUSION:Traditional indicators reflect an excellent operation of the perioperative ophthalmologic quality, whereas adverse events analysis indicates some underlying problems. Compared with the traditional indexes for medical quality evaluation, the index of adverse events is more reasonable and easier to make an objective evaluation for medical quality of ophthalmologic perioperation, facilitating further refine analysis. Reasonable application of the adverse events indicators helps hospital to make the detailed quality control measures.

Abstract:AIM: To compare the efficacy of intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) alone or in combination with photodynamic therapy (PDT) vs PDT in patients with symptomatic polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV).METHODS: A systematic search of a wide range of databases (including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and Web of Science) was searched to identify relevant studies. Both randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCT studies were included. Methodological quality of included literatures was evaluated according to the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. RevMan 5.2.7 software was used to do the Meta-analysis.RESULTS: Three RCTs and 6 retrospective studies were included. The results showed that PDT monotherapy had a significantly higher proportion in patients who achieved complete regression of polyps than IVR monotherapy at months 3, 6, and 12 (All P≤0.01), respectively. However, IVR had a tendency to be more effective in improving vision on the basis of RCTs. The proportion of patients who gained complete regression of polyps revealed that there was no significant difference between the combination treatment and PDT monotherapy. The mean change of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) from baseline showed that the combination treatment had significant superiority in improving vision vs PDT monotherapy at months 3, 6 and 24 (All P<0.05), respectively. In the mean time, this comparison result was also significant at month 12 (P<0.01) after removal of a heterogeneous study.CONCLUSION: IVR has non-inferiority compare with PDT either in stabilizing or in improving vision, although it can hardly promote the regression of polyps. The combination treatment of PDT and IVR can exert a synergistic effect on regressing polyps and on maintaining or improving visual acuity. Thus, it can be the first-line therapy for PCV.

Abstract:AIM:Toevaluate the recurrence andcomplicationsafter bare sclera resection (BSR) combined with mitomycin C (MMC) treatment and/or autograft limbus conjunctiva (ALC) in the surgery for pterygium.METHODS:Meta-analysis was used to evaluate the differences in patient outcomes between BSR of pterygium with or without MMC and/or ALC. All included studies were randomized trials of patients with pterygium who received BSR followed by MMC and/or ALC in the surgery. The recurrence of pterygium and other complications resulting from different treatments were extracted for analysis.RESULTS:Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The recurrence of pterygium with intraoperative (IO) MMC was higher than that with ALC (OR=2.38，95% confidence interval 1.45-3.91, I²=29%). Postoperative MMC resulted in an incidence of recurrence similar to that of ALC (OR=0.66, 95% confidence interval 0.30-1.42, I²=0%), and IO MMC treatment in combination with ALC produced similar patient outcomes to ALC alone (OR=0.41, 95% confidence interval 0.16-1.01, I²=16%). Other complications such as punctate epitheliopathy, scleral thinning and ischemia, irritation and persistent epithelium defect, were more common in patients in the MMC group as compared to those treated with ALC.CONCLUSION:The recurrence of pterygium with BSR followed by ALC is lower than that of BSR followed by MMC, and the incidence of other complications is lower. While ALC is a more effective strategy for treating pterygium, the quality of the ALC transplant should be considered when the patient has a history of glaucoma.

Abstract:AIM:To determine the impact of rigid gas permeable (RGP) and silicone-hydrogel keratoconus lenses on the quality of life (QoL) in keratoconus (KCN) patients using the self-reported results from the Contact Lens Impact on Quality of Life (CLIQ) Questionnaire.METHODS:From January 2013 to April 2013, 27 consecutive KCN patients who wore RGP contact lenses (conflexair100 UV KE Zeiss-Wöhlk) or soft silicone-hydrogel contact lenses (SHCLs) for KCN (KeraSoft IC- Bausch&Lomb or Hydrocone Toris K–Swiss lens) completed the CLIQ questionnaire.RESULTS:The mean age of 27 patients was 29.6±8.0y. Fifteen patients were RGP user. The groups were comparable with respect to the mean patient age, sex, and mean K values (P=0.1, P=0.8 and P=0.1, respectively). The mean CLIQperson measure was 42.8±5.5 in RGP group and 39.6±5.5 in SHCLs for KCN group (P=0.06). CLIQperson measure was positively correlated with steep K value (r=0.301, P=0.04). When eyes were stratified by visual acuity with contact lenses, the mean CLIQperson measure was 42.01±5.6 in eyes with a visual acuity of 20/20-20/25 (n=44) and 38.4±5.26 in eyes with a visual acuity of 20/32 or less (n=10; P=0.097).CONCLUSION:RGP lenses and SHCLs for KCN have similar impact on QoL.

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