Search

Abstract Background High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a cosmetic procedure that aims to tone the skin through thermal collagen coagulation. The energy is delivered in the deep layers of the skin, and because of these characteristics, the risks of severe damage to adjacent tissue and the ocular surface may be underestimated. Previous reports have demonstrated superficial corneal opacities, cataracts, increased intraocular pressure, or ocular refractive changes in different patients following HIFU. In this case, we report deep stromal opacities associated with anterior uveitis, iris atrophy and lens opacity formation following a single HIFU superior eyelid application. Case presentation A 47-year-old female presented to the ophthalmic emergency department complaining of pain, hyperemia and photophobia in the right eye following a HIFU application to the superior right eyelid. A slit lamp examination showed three temporal-inferior corneal infiltrates with edema and severe anterior uveitis. The patient was treated with topical corticosteroids, and six months later, there was residual corneal opacity, iris atrophy and peripherical cataract formation. No surgical procedure was needed, and the final vision was Snellen 20/20 (1.0). Conclusion The risk of severe impairment to the ocular surface and ocular tissues may be underestimated. Cosmetic surgeons and ophthalmologists must be aware of the complications, and the long-term follow-up of these changes needs further investigation and discussion. Safety protocols of the HIFU intensity threshold for thermal lesions in the eye and the use of protective eye devices should be better evaluated.

To evaluate the impact of lens opacity on the reliability of optical coherence tomography angiography metrics and to find a vessel caliber threshold that is reproducible in cataract patients. A prospective cohort study of 31 patients, examining one eye per patient, by applying 3 × 3 mm macular optical coherence tomography angiography before (18.94 ± 12.22 days) and 3 months (111 ± 23.45 days) after uncomplicated cataract surgery. We extracted superficial (SVC) and deep vascular plexuses (DVC) for further analysis and evaluated changes in image contrast, vessel metrics (perfusion density, flow deficit and vessel-diameter index) and foveal avascular area (FAZ). After surgery, the blood flow signal in smaller capillaries was enhanced as image contrast improved. Signal strength correlated to average lens density defined by objective measurement in Scheimpflug images (Pearson's r: –.40, p:.027) and to flow deficit (r= –.70, p <.001). Perfusion density correlated to the signal strength index (r =.70, p <.001). Vessel metrics and FAZ area, except for FAZ area in DVC, were significantly different after cataract surgery, but the mean change was approximately 3–6%. A stepwise approach in extracting vessels according to their pixel caliber showed a threshold of > 6 pixels caliber (∼20–30 µm) was comparable before and after lens removal. In patients with cataract, OCTA vessel metrics should be interpreted with caution. In addition to signal strength, contrast and pixel properties can serve as supplementary quality metrics to improve the interpretation of OCTA metrics. Vessels with ∼20–30 µm in caliber seem to be reproducible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a cosmetic procedure that aims to tone the skin through thermal collagen coagulation. The energy is delivered in the deep layers of the skin, and because of these characteristics, the risks of severe damage to adjacent tissue and the ocular surface may be underestimated. Previous reports have demonstrated superficial corneal opacities, cataracts, increased intraocular pressure, or ocular refractive changes in different patients following HIFU. In this case, we report deep stromal opacities associated with anterior uveitis, iris atrophy and lens opacity formation following a single HIFU superior eyelid application. Case presentation: A 47-year-old female presented to the ophthalmic emergency department complaining of pain, hyperemia and photophobia in the right eye following a HIFU application to the superior right eyelid. A slit lamp examination showed three temporal-inferior corneal infiltrates with edema and severe anterior uveitis. The patient was treated with topical corticosteroids, and six months later, there was residual corneal opacity, iris atrophy and peripherical cataract formation. No surgical procedure was needed, and the final vision was Snellen 20/20 (1.0). Conclusion: The risk of severe impairment to the ocular surface and ocular tissues may be underestimated. Cosmetic surgeons and ophthalmologists must be aware of the complications, and the long-term follow-up of these changes needs further investigation and discussion. Safety protocols of the HIFU intensity threshold for thermal lesions in the eye and the use of protective eye devices should be better evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lens is transparent, non‐vascular, elastic and wrapped in a transparent capsule. The lens oppacity of AQP5−/− mice was increased more than that of wild‐type (AQP5+/+) mice. In this study, we explored the potential functional role of circular RNAs (circRNAs) and transcription factor HSF4 in lens opacity in aquaporin 5 (AQP5) knockout (AQP5−/−) mice. Autophagy was impaired in the lens tissues of AQP5−/− mice. Autophagic lysosomes in lens epithelial cells of AQP5−/− mice were increased compared with AQP5+/+ mice, based on analysis by transmission electron microscopy. The genetic information of the mice lens was obtained by high‐throughput sequencing, and then the downstream genes were analysed. A circRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA network related to lysosomal pathway was constructed by the bioinformatics analysis of the differentially expressed circRNAs. Based on the prediction of the TargetScan website and the validation by dual luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation‐qPCR, we found that circRNA (Chr16: 33421321‐33468183+) inhibited the function of HSF4 by sponging microRNA (miR‐149‐5p), and it downregulated the normal expression of lysosome‐related mRNAs. The accumulation of autophagic lysosome may be one of the reasons for the abnormal development of the lens in AQP5−/− mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Purpose: To report 21 cases of typical inferior feather-shape lens opacity associated with keratoconus. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated the association of keratoconus with inferior feather-shape lens opacity in refractive surgery candidates. Visual acuity, demographic, refractive, and topographic characteristics of 26 eyes of 21 patients with inferior feather-shape lens opacity were evaluated in detail. Pedigree analysis was also performed to assess possible inheritance. Results: Overall, 2122 out of 33,368 cases (6.4%) without lens opacity had keratoconus, while 20 out of 21 patients (95.2%) with peculiar lens opacity had definite keratoconus (P < 0.001). Lens opacity was bilateral in 5 cases (24%), and keratoconus was bilateral in all 20 patients with lens opacity. Nine eyes out of thirty-six with a complete data record (25%) had a severe keratoconus and underwent deep lamellar keratoplasty, while 11 (31%) had forme fruste keratoconus. Pedigrees were drawn for eight patients, most families of whom suggested an X-linked recessive inheritance. Conclusion: The present study was the first to investigate patients with a peculiar inferior feather-shape lens opacity accompanied by bilateral keratoconus, which was observed in 95% of the patients. This finding should raise awareness as to the possibility of diagnosing keratoconus in the eyes of the patients with these characteristics.

Purpose: To determine the prevalence of astigmatism and its associated factors and examine astigmatism symmetry patterns in an elderly population. Study design: Population based cross-sectional study. Methods: The present population-based cross-sectional study was conducted on an elderly population above 60 years of age in Tehran, Iran in 2019. The sampling was done using the stratified multistage random cluster sampling method. All study participants underwent a complete optometric examination and slit-lamp biomicroscopy. Results: The prevalence of astigmatism higher than -0.50, -1.00, and -2.00 D was 83% (95% CI: 81 -84), 52 % (95% CI: 50 -54), and 19% (95% CI: 17-20), respectively. These prevalence was 79%(95% CI: 77-81), 46(95% CI: 44-49) and 14(95% CI: 13-16) in subjects without a history of ocular surgery, respectively. Based on cylinder power worse than -1.00 D, 10% (95% CI: 9-12), 20% (95% CI: 18-22), and 21% (95% CI:19-23) of study participants had with the rule, against the rule, and oblique astigmatism, respectively. According to the results of the multiple regression model, male gender, older age, low education level, pure posterior subcapsular cataract, pseudophakia, and myopia were independent factors associated with astigmatism. The prevalence of anisorule astigmatism was 57 % (95% CI: 56-59), the most common anisorule astigmatism was against the rule-oblique type with a prevalence of 36% (95% CI: 34-38). Conclusion: The prevalence of astigmatism was high in the elderly population of Tehran. More than half of the participants in this study had anisorule astigmatism, and against the rule-oblique combination was more prevalent than other types. A posterior subcapsular cataract, a history of cataract surgery, and myopia were the associated factors of astigmatism in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AIM: To investigate the effect of age on the expression of Na+-K+-ATPase and acute reversible lens opacification induced by chloral hydrate in mice. METHODS: Acute reversible lens opacification was induced by intraperitoneal injection of 4% chloral hydrate(400mg/kg)in 3-month-old(young group)and 24-month-old(old group)C57BL/6 mice. The lens opacification was graded at 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120 and 150min after chloral hydrate injection. The histopathological changes of lens were observed by hematoxylin eosin staining, and the expression of Na+-K+-ATPase in lens was detected by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: The development of lens opacity is similar in young and old mice after chloral hydrate injection. The lens opacification in the young group appeared earlier, thicker and lasted longer than the old group. HE staining showed that many vesicles appeared in the cortex below lens epithelial cells(LECs), and the structure of superficial lens fiber cells were disordered after chloral hydrate injection. Immunohistochemical staining showed that the expression of Na+-K+-ATPase was positive in LECs and fibers. The expression of Na+-K+-ATPase in LECs were weak before chloral hydrate injection and up-regulated 45min after chloral hydrate injection in young and old groups. The up-regulation of Na+-K+-ATPase was stronger in the old group than in the young group. CONCLUSION: Age may play a role in the acute reversible lens opacification induced by chloral hydrate in mice. The expression of Na+-K+-ATPase is involved in lens opacity induced by chloral hydrate.

PurposeHydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a highly toxic gas with well-established, acute irritation effects on the eye. The population of Rotorua, New Zealand, sited on an active geothermal field, has some of the highest ambient H2S exposures in the world. Evidence from ecological studies in Rotorua has suggested that H2S is associated with cataract. The purpose of the present study was, using more detailed exposure characterization, clinical examinations, and anterior eye photography, to more directly investigate this previously reported association.MethodsEnrolled were 1637 adults, ages 18 to 65, from a comprehensive Rotorua primary care medical register. Patients underwent a comprehensive ophthalmic examination, including pupillary dilation and lens photography to capture evidence of any nuclear opacity, nuclear color, and cortical and posterior subcapsular opacity. Photographs were scored for all four outcomes on the LOCS III scale with decimalized interpolation between the exemplars. H2S exposure for up to the last 30 years was estimated based on networks of passive samplers set out across Rotorua and knowledge of residential, workplace, and school locations over the 30 years. Data analysis using linear and logistic regression examined associations between the degree of opacification and nuclear color or cataract (defined as a LOCS III score ≥2.0) in relation to H2S exposure.ResultsNo associations were found between estimated H2S exposures and any of the four ophthalmic outcome measures.ConclusionsOverall, results were generally reassuring. They provided no evidence that H2S exposure at the levels found in Rotorua is associated with cataract. The previously found association between cataract and H2S exposure in the Rotorua population seems likely to be attributable to the limitations of the ecological study design. These results cannot rule out the possibility of an association with cataract at higher levels of H2S exposure.

Inactive ocular toxoplasmosis (OT) is not confined to immunocompromised patients but is also common in immunocompetent patients. It could result in a loss of vision, asteroid hyalosis, lenticular opacity and peripheral chorioretinal scar. More often than not, misdiagnosing the lesion may occur because of the lack of presenting symptoms. Therefore, this article aims to highlight OT and its consequences, emphasising the approach that must be followed to diagnose and manage the disease optimally. This case report is about a 24-year-old woman who had blurred vision in her left eye from the age of 9 years. After dilation for fundus examination and taking the patient for retinal imaging, the fundus showed a clearly defined pigmented chorioretinal scar on the temporal side of the macula. Contribution: As the disease has the ability for retinal complications, documenting any progressive developments of the disease is essential to manage the patient better.

Abstract Background Cataracts and glomerulopathy are disabling complications of diabetes mellitus. The use of medicinal plants in the treatment of diabetes helps prevent or delay these complications. Pterocarpus erinaceus and Amaranthus spinosus are part of these medicinal plants used in traditional medicine to treat diabetes and its complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate in vitro the protective effect of the dried hydroethanolic extracts of the two plants against cataractogenesis and glomerulopathy induced by high glucose. Lenses and kidney fragments from Sprague–Dawley rats were cultured in artificial aqueous humor and in glomerular solution under high glucose, respectively. The extracts of the two plants at doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg bw were added to the culture medium and incubated for 72 h for the lenses and 96 h for the kidney fragments. Morphological and biochemical parameters were evaluated during the cultures. Results The lenses treated with extracts of both plants remained shiny and transparent in contrast to the opacity observed in toxic controls. The treatment by extract caused a significant (p

We established a mouse cataract model by irradiating Grx2 knockout (KO) and knock-in (KI) genetically modified mice with UVB to explore the protective mechanism of Grx2 against UVB lens damage. After irradiating Grx2 KO and Grx2 KI mice with UVB lamps, we observed and recorded the general physiological conditions and lens opacity of the mice. The crystalline grading system of the University of Oxford was used to classify the opacity of the lens. Lens reactive oxygen species (ROS) contents were detected using a microplate reader, western blot, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect antioxidant and antioxidant enzyme contents. Statistical analysis of the recorded data was performed by using SPSS 19.0 software. After UVB irradiation, the weight of Grx2 KO mice was slightly lower than that of wild-type (WT) mice of the same age. Compared to WT mice, the lens opacity of Grx2 KO mice appeared earlier, the nucleus density of the lens increased, and the opacity increased in the first week after UVB irradiation. Meanwhile, the lenses of Grx2 KI mice remained transparent. The experiment showed that the content of ROS increased, the level of glutathione (GSH) decreased, the content of 8-OHdG increased, and the expression of BCL2 decreased after UVB irradiation. Compared to WT mice, these changes were more significant in Grx2 KO mice. This experiment found that knocking out the Grx2 gene accelerated the occurrence and development of UVB-induced cataracts in mice and that Grx2 plays an important role in the oxidative damage caused by UVB radiation by repairing the antioxidant enzymes of the lens. This study provides a new animal model and research ideas for the study of cataract pathogenesis. • Knocking out the Grx2 gene accelerated the occurrence and development of UVB-induced cataracts. • Increased Content of ROS and 8-OHdG after UVB irradiation. • Decreased the level of GSH) after UVB irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A population-based case-control study was conducted in Yangjiang and Enping areas in South China to assess whether the risk of lens opacity induced by natural high background radiation exposure is modulated by polymorphisms of ATM and TP53. Materials and methods: A total of 133 cases who were diagnosed with cortical and posterior subcapsular (PSC) opacity were recruited, and 419 healthy controls were selected through counter-matching in terms of radiation status. Genomic DNA from all the participants was genotyped with the Illumina platform for four single nucleotide polymorphisms of ATM (rs189037, rs373759, and rs4585) and TP53 (rs1042522). The cumulative lens dose received during the entire life was estimated based on annual indoor and outdoor radiation doses and gender- and age-specific occupancy factors. Non-conditional logistic regression was performed to calculate odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results:ATM rs189037 and TP53 rs1042522 were significantly related to cortical and PSC opacity. The risk of opacity was higher when individuals carried the A allele of ATM rs189037 and C allele of TP53 rs1042522, compared with GG genotype. ATM rs189037 A allele carriers (AG/AA) and TP53 rs1042522 C allele carriers (CG/CC) combined with a cumulative lens dose of 100 mGy or higher showed statistically significant opacity risks (OR = 5.51, 95% CI: 1.47–20.66; OR = 2.69, 95% CI: 1.10–6.60). Conclusion: The A allele of ATM rs189037 and C allele of TP53 rs1042522 increased the risk of lens opacity induced by radiation. These polymorphisms in ATM and TP53 might modify the risk of cortical and PSC opacity induced by chronic and prolonged low-dose radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Kakovostna Starost is the property of Anton Trstenjak Institute and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

AbstractPurpose To evaluate the effect of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) on lens opacity as measured by Scheimpflug densitometry, serum inflammatory cytokines, and antioxidant levels.Methods A total of 264 women who were at least five years beyond menopause were included. The control group of 128 patients (Group 1) did not use HRT at any time after menopause. The treatment group of 136 patients (Group 2) used HRT for5 years or more after menopause. Cortical, nuclear, and posterior subcapsular density; pentacam nucleus staging (PNS); pentacam densitometry of zone (PDZ) as measured using a Scheimpflug imaging system (Pentacam); and antioxidant and inflammatory cytokines activities in serum using multiplex bead analysiswere examined.Results Uncorrected visual acuity (logMAR) of group1 was significantly worse than those of group 2 (p

The gaseous signalling molecule, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties. Since oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathogenesis of cataracts and lenticular hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is elevated in some cataract patients, the present study investigated the ability of H2S-releasing compounds to prevent H2O2-induced cataract formation in cultured bovine lenses. Lenses were cultured in either Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM; control); H2O2 (50 mM); ascorbic acid (AA; 3 mM) (positive control); and the H2S-releasing compounds (diallyl trisulfide [DATS] or GYY4137) in the presence of H2O2 (50 mM). Lens opacity was determined using a plate reader to measure transmittance. Lens glutathione content (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) cytotoxicity were assessed before and after treatment with the H2S-releasing compounds. Both DATS (10−7M – 10−4M) and GYY4137 (10−7M – 10−4M) significantly (p <.001) attenuated H2O2 (50 mM)-induced loss in transmittance, with DATS (10−4M) and GYY4137 (10−7M) achieving a maximal reversal of opacity by 56.86 ± 0.01% (n = 6) and 8.39 ± 0.11% (n = 6) after 120 hours, respectively. These observations were corroborated by photographic evaluation, where DATS (10−5M – 10−4M) and GYY4137 (10−7M – 10−5M)-treated lenses had relatively clear grids after 120 hours, compared to H2O2 (50 mM)-treated lenses. The H2O2 (50 mM)-induced decline in total GSH content and total SOD activity were significantly (p <.001; n = 5) reversed by DATS (10−4M) and GYY4137 (10−7M). After 24 hours, DATS (10−4M) and GYY4137 (10−7M) significantly (p <.001; n = 4) reduced cytotoxicity of primary bovine lens epithelial cells by 33.88 ± 4.59% and 36.19 ± 10.53%, respectively. Both H2S-releasing compounds protected cultured bovine lenses against oxidative stress-induced cataract formation. The slow-releasing H2S compound, GYY4137 was more potent than DATS in restoring lenticular total GSH content and total SOD activity along with reducing H2O2 (50 mM)-induced cytotoxicity [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Der Ophthalmologe is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The present study was designed to determine protective effects of Coleus forskohlii hydroalcoholic leaf-extract along with its fractions against fructose-induced cataract rat model. The Coleus forskolii leaf extract was subjected to silica gel column chromatography and fractions were collected. A major high yielding fraction of the leaf extract, designated as fraction B6 was pharmacologically evaluated in Sprague Dawley albino rats at three doses 0.1, 1 and 10 mg/kg respectively. Compound B2; isolated from B6 fraction, identified as 'gallic acid' was also pharmacologically evaluated at three different doses. Cataract was induced by concurrent administration of fructose solution (10% w/v, per oral, dissolved in drinking water) for eight consecutive weeks. Mean arterial pressure, blood glucose level and lenticular opacity were determined. At the end of eight weeks, C. forskohlii leaf extract fraction and gallic acid reduced mean arterial pressure and glucose level in a dose dependent manner. In addition, C. forskohlii led to significant restoration of lens antioxidants enzyme level and reduced cataract formation in rats. These results showed the concentration dependent protective effect by C. forskohlii leaf extract against cataract formation due to restoration of oxidative stress markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To report 21 cases of typical inferior feather-shape lens opacity associated with keratoconus. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated the association of keratoconus with inferior feather-shape lens opacity in refractive surgery candidates. Visual acuity, demographic, refractive, and topographic characteristics of 26 eyes of 21 patients with inferior feather-shape lens opacity were evaluated in detail. Pedigree analysis was also performed to assess possible inheritance. Results: Overall, 2122 out of 33,368 cases (6.4%) without lens opacity had keratoconus, while 20 out of 21 patients (95.2%) with peculiar lens opacity had definite keratoconus (P < 0.001). Lens opacity was bilateral in 5 cases (24%), and keratoconus was bilateral in all 20 patients with lens opacity. Nine eyes out of thirty-six with a complete data record (25%) had a severe keratoconus and underwent deep lamellar keratoplasty, while 11 (31%) had forme fruste keratoconus. Pedigrees were drawn for eight patients, most families of whom suggested an X-linked recessive inheritance. Conclusion: The present study was the first to investigate patients with a peculiar inferior feather-shape lens opacity accompanied by bilateral keratoconus, which was observed in 95% of the patients. This finding should raise awareness as to the possibility of diagnosing keratoconus in the eyes of the patients with these characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the effect of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) on lens opacity as measured by Scheimpflug densitometry, serum inflammatory cytokines, and antioxidant levels. A total of 264 women who were at least five years beyond menopause were included. The control group of 128 patients (Group 1) did not use HRT at any time after menopause. The treatment group of 136 patients (Group 2) used HRT for5 years or more after menopause. Cortical, nuclear, and posterior subcapsular density; pentacam nucleus staging (PNS); pentacam densitometry of zone (PDZ) as measured using a Scheimpflug imaging system (Pentacam); and antioxidant and inflammatory cytokines activities in serum using multiplex bead analysiswere examined. Uncorrected visual acuity (logMAR) of group1 was significantly worse than those of group 2 (p <.05). Group1 was significantly more myopic than group 2 (p <.05). Nuclear and posterior subcapsular density, PNS, and percentage of PDZ in group 1 were significantly higher than those of group 2 (p <.05). The serum IL-1m. IL-6, IL-8, and TGF-, concentrations of group 1 were significantly higher than those of group 2, and the serum catalase, superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD 1), and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD 2) fluorescence intensities of group 1 were significantly lower than those of group 2 (p <.05). Long-term use of HRT may have a protective effect against cataract formation. HRT seems to be effective in decreasing inflammation and increasing antioxidant contents in the serum of postmenopausal women. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) decrease lens opacity in postmenopausal women as measured by Scheimpflug densitometry. HRT decrease serum inflammatory cytokines and increase antioxidant levelsin the serum of postmenopausal women. Long-term use of HRT may have a protective effect against cataract formationin postmenopausal women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the potential function of Ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1) against lens opacification. Methods: Eyeballs from adult Sprague-Dawley rats were enucleated and lenses were dissected for ex vivo culture under H2O2 treatment. Water soluble protein (WSP) content, the level of superoxide dismutase (SOD), total glutathione (GSH), and reduced GSH were detected by indicated assays. Cell viability was performed by Cell Counting Kit-8 experiment. Exposure of 0.2 mM H2O2 in lenses resulted in obvious cloudiness and typical pathological changes of cataract such as rupture of the lens capsule, degenerative lens epithelial cells (LECs), etc. Rg1 effectively prevented lens opacity caused by H2O2. After Rg1 treatment, lens WSP content, the level of SOD, total GSH, and reduced GSH were increased, while the level of MDA and oxidized GSH were decreased. In addition, MDA concentration of lens by Rg1 treatment only was found to be lower than the controls. Rg1 attenuated H2O2-induced cell injury at the concentration of 0.4 mM that it elevated cell activity, and peaked at 0.6 mM. This study demonstrated that Rg1 might have the capability to protect lens against oxidative stress-induced cataract, at least by local administration. Abbreviations: LECs: lens epithelial cells; Rg1: Ginsenoside Rg1; SD: Sprague-Dawley; ROS: reactive oxygen species; SOD: Superoxide Dismutase; GSH: glutathione; MDA: Malonediadehyde; H2O2: Hydrogen peroxide [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract To investigate conditions that cause temporal lens opacity, we tested chemical and physical factors, such as anaesthesia dose, ocular surface dryness, and infrared (IR) light exposure in anaesthetised C57BL/6 N mice. Mice were anaesthetised with a low (80%; tiletamine/zolazepam 32 mg/kg and xylazine 8 mg/kg, intraperitoneal injection) or high (120%; 48 mg/kg and 12 mg/kg) dose of anaesthetic and examined every 5 min from 10 to 30 min after anaesthesia was induced. Lens opacity levels were assessed and graded (1–6) using the standard classification system. Regardless of the anaesthetic dose, lens opacity grade was 1–2 in moisturised eyes with application of 0.5% carboxymethylcellulose, and 5–6 in dry ocular surface conditions. Lens opacity in mice with high-dose anaesthetic in the dry ocular surface condition was not different from that of mice with low-dose anaesthetic. Lens opacity grade 1–2 was noted in eyes in the wet ocular surface condition, regardless of IR light exposure. During IR light exposure in eyes in the dry ocular surface condition, lens opacity (grade 6) in mice with high-dose anaesthetic was not different from that (grade 6) in mice with low-dose anaesthetic. We demonstrated that ocular surface dryness might be a relevant factor for the formation and progression of lens opacity in anesthetized C57BL/6 N mice. Anaesthesia dose and IR light exposure did not strongly influence lens opacity formation. Furthermore, eyes with corneal dryness-induced lens opacity recovered to normal status without additional intervention.

Abstract Background Long-term use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) has been associated with increased risk of bone and ocular comorbidities. We evaluated the effects of the triple fixed-dose combination budesonide/glycopyrrolate/formoterol fumarate metered dose inhaler (BGF MDI), formulated using co-suspension delivery technology, on bone mineral density (BMD) and ocular safety in patients with moderate-to-very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods In this extension study, a subset of patients from the 24-week, phase III, randomized, double-blind KRONOS study (NCT02497001) continued treatment (BGF MDI 320/18/9.6 μg, budesonide/formoterol fumarate [BFF] MDI 320/9.6 μg or glycopyrrolate/formoterol fumarate [GFF] MDI 18/9.6 μg, as a non-steroidal comparator) for an additional 28 weeks. Primary endpoints were percentage change from baseline in lumbar spine BMD and change from baseline in lens opacities classification system III posterior subcapsular cataract (P) score, both at Week 52. Adverse events were also assessed. Results In total, 456 patients were included in the safety population (53.1% male, mean age 62.8 years). Changes from baseline in lumbar spine BMD (least squares mean [LSM] range − 0.12 to 0.38%) and P score (LSM range 0.02–0.15) were small for all treatments. Both BGF MDI and BFF MDI were non-inferior to GFF MDI using margins of −2% (BMD) and 0.5 units (P score). The incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) was generally similar among groups. Rates of confirmed pneumonia were low overall (2.4%) and highest in the GFF MDI group (3.4%), followed by BGF MDI (2.1%) and BFF MDI (1.1%). There were no cumulative adverse effects of treatment over time as the incidence and types of TEAEs, were generally similar in the first 24 weeks of the study and after Week 24. Conclusions In patients with COPD, both ICS-containing therapies were non-inferior to GFF MDI for the primary BMD and ophthalmological endpoints. Changes from baseline in all three treatment groups over 52 weeks were small and not clinically meaningful. All treatments were well tolerated with no new or unexpected safety findings. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02536508. Registered 27 August 2015.

Background: Cataracts and glomerulopathy are disabling complications of diabetes mellitus. The use of medicinal plants in the treatment of diabetes helps prevent or delay these complications. Pterocarpus erinaceus and Amaranthus spinosus are part of these medicinal plants used in traditional medicine to treat diabetes and its complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate in vitro the protective effect of the dried hydroethanolic extracts of the two plants against cataractogenesis and glomerulopathy induced by high glucose. Lenses and kidney fragments from Sprague–Dawley rats were cultured in artificial aqueous humor and in glomerular solution under high glucose, respectively. The extracts of the two plants at doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg bw were added to the culture medium and incubated for 72 h for the lenses and 96 h for the kidney fragments. Morphological and biochemical parameters were evaluated during the cultures. Results: The lenses treated with extracts of both plants remained shiny and transparent in contrast to the opacity observed in toxic controls. The treatment by extract caused a significant (p < 0.001) decrease in malondialdehyde and a significant increase (p < 0.001) in glutathione and catalase levels in lenses and kidney fragments. The extracts also caused a significant increase (p < 0.0001) in glucose absorption in glomeruli and a decrease in tubular glucose reabsorption in kidney fragments. This led to a decrease in glucose in the incubation medium. Conclusion: These findings showed that the dried hydroethanolic extract of P. erinaceus and A. spinosus can be used to reduce hyperglycemia effects by inhibiting oxidative stress pathways and then preventing or delaying the onset of cataracts and kidney failure in diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AIM: To investigate the effect of crystal turbidity on retinal oxygen saturation in patients with diabetic cataract. METHODS:This was a cross-sectional study. Totally 68 patients with 68 eyes of diabetic cataract admitted to our hospital from June 2017 to December 2017 were selected as subjects. Retinal oximetry was used to measure the blood oxygen saturation of the retinal veins, veins, and their supraorbital, nasal, subnasal, and infraorbital branches. The objective scatter index(OSI)of the eye was measured by Visual Quality Analysis System II, and the degree of opacity of the lens was graded according to OSI. RESULTS:The blood oxygen saturation of the retinal artery and its branches in this group were 101.39%±10.84%, 106.19%±11.40%, 103.22%±10.91%, 102.36%±20.31%, and 101.29%±13.88%, respectively. The oxygen saturation of the retinal vein and its branches were 62.51%±8.95%, 66.37%±10.74%, 64.81%±8.97%, 58.37%±13.85%, and 58.66%±19.94%, respectively. The difference between arteriovenous oxygen saturation was 40.72%±12.08%. In this group of patients, 68 patients with 68 eyes had an OSI value of 4.21±3.14. Among them, 15 eyes were turbid at the first stage, 14 eyes were turbid at level 2, 23 eyes were turbid at level 3, and 16 eyes were turbid at level 4. Pearson correlation analysis showed that the retinal veins, veins and their branches were negatively correlated with OSI(both PPPPP>0.05). There was no significant difference in the difference of arteriovenous oxygen saturation between the patients with different degrees of lens opacity(P>0.05).CONCLUSION: In patients with diabetic cataract, when the degree of lens opacity is 1 to 3, the degree of abnormality of retinal blood oxygen metabolism is not obvious. When the degree of lens opacity reaches 4, the blood oxygen saturation of the retinal veins, veins and their branches will decrease.

Purpose: We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of effective goniosynechialysis (GSL) under an endoscopic view combined with phacoemulsification in residual angle-closure glaucoma with lens opacity. Methods: This was a retrospective study. Patients with residual angle-closure glaucoma, lens opacity, and uncontrolled intraocular pressure (IOP) who were receiving anti-glaucoma medications were selected to undergo effective GSL under an endoscopic view combined with phacoemulsification. Follow-up examinations were conducted until 6 months postoperatively. Results: Twenty-five eyes of 24 patients diagnosed with residual angle-closure glaucoma and lens opacity and peripheral anterior synechiae (PAS) at least ≥ 270° were included. Their mean age was 61.32 ± 6.11 years. Preoperatively, the mean (standard error) IOP was 29.69 (11.22) mmHg, and the median number of IOP-lowering medications used was 3.0. The decreases in the rates of IOP of the patients were 44.29%, 52.17%, 46.95%, 48.37%, and 47.29% at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, 2.5 months, and 6 months after the surgery, respectively. At 6 months, the median number of IOP-lowering medications used decreased from 3 to 0 and the range of PAS compared to the baseline decreased from 312° to 107° (P < 0.001). We also found that 21/25 eyes achieved improved or stable visual acuity after surgery. Postoperative complications included transiently elevated IOP (12.0%), exudation (8.0%), and hyphema (4.0%). Conclusions: Phacoemulsification combined with effective GSL under an endoscopic view may reopen residual angle-closure glaucoma and reduce the number of IOP-lowering medications for up to 6 months. It is an effective and safe method for patients with residual angle-closure glaucoma and lens opacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cataract is the leading reason of blindness worldwide and is defined by the presence of any lens opacities or loss of transparency. The most common symptoms of cataract are impaired vision, decreased contrast sensitivity, color disturbance, and glare. Oxidative stress is among the main mechanisms involved in the development of age-related cataract. Surgery through phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation is the most effective method for cataract treatment, however, there are chances of serious complications and irreversible loss of vision associated with the surgery. Natural compounds consisting of antioxidant or anti-inflammatory secondary metabolites can serve as potential leads for anticataract agents. In this review, we tried to document medicinal plants and plant-based natural products used for cataract treatment worldwide, which are gathered from available ethnopharmacological/ethnobotanical data. We have extensively explored a number of recognized databases like Scifinder, PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and Scopus by using keywords and phrases such as “cataract”, “blindness”, “traditional medicine”, “ethnopharmacology”, “ethnobotany”, “herbs”, “medicinal plants”, or other relevant terms, and summarized the plants/phytoconstituents that are evaluated in different models of cataract and also tabulated 44 plants that are traditionally used in cataract in various folklore medical practices. Moreover, we also categorized the plants according to scientific studies carried out in different cataract models with their mechanisms of action.

Cataract is the leading reason of blindness worldwide and is defined by the presence of any lens opacities or loss of transparency. The most common symptoms of cataract are impaired vision, decreased contrast sensitivity, color disturbance, and glare. Oxidative stress is among the main mechanisms involved in the development of age-related cataract. Surgery through phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation is the most effective method for cataract treatment, however, there are chances of serious complications and irreversible loss of vision associated with the surgery. Natural compounds consisting of antioxidant or anti-inflammatory secondary metabolites can serve as potential leads for anticataract agents. In this review, we tried to document medicinal plants and plant-based natural products used for cataract treatment worldwide, which are gathered from available ethnopharmacological/ethnobotanical data. We have extensively explored a number of recognized databases like Scifinder, PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and Scopus by using keywords and phrases such as "cataract", "blindness", "traditional medicine", "ethnopharmacology", "ethnobotany", "herbs", "medicinal plants", or other relevant terms, and summarized the plants/phytoconstituents that are evaluated in different models of cataract and also tabulated 44 plants that are traditionally used in cataract in various folklore medical practices. Moreover, we also categorized the plants according to scientific studies carried out in different cataract models with their mechanisms of action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the effect of probucol, an antihyperlipidemic drug with potent antioxidant properties, on cataract formation in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced hyperglycemic rats that were given 5% D-glucose as drinking water. Probucol treatment was initiated immediately after the induction of hyperglycemia was confirmed. Using full horizontal-plane lens images captured with an original digital camera system, the opacity of central region of lens was assessed by measuring the opaque area in the region. Central opacities were detected after 3 weeks of hyperglycemia, and progressed in a time-dependent manner. The majority of STZ-induced hyperglycemic rats developed severe cataracts after 9 weeks of hyperglycemia. Probucol slowed the progression of cataracts in a dose-dependent manner. Levels of sorbitol and protein carbonyls in lenses of STZ-induced hyperglycemic rats were higher than those of control rats. Probucol suppressed the increase in protein carbonyls, but not of sorbitol, in lenses of STZ-induced hyperglycemic rats. Probucol had no significant effect on increases in plasma concentrations of glucose, total cholesterol, and triglyceride observed in STZ-induced hyperglycemic rats. These results suggest that probucol slows the progression of sugar cataracts, independent of its lipid-lowering effects. The beneficial effect of probucol on cataracts is partially attributable to the attenuation of oxidative damage to lens proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this investigation is to describe the potential contributing nutritional factors involved in the development of ophthalmic and dermatologic changes in four Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris spp tigris) cubs fed an artificial milk formula. The affected animals were compared with two other tiger cubs that had been nursed by their dam naturally. After the first clinical signs appeared, the tiger cubs underwent ophthalmic evaluation. Severe symmetric generalized alopecia over the trunk, sparing the head and distal portion of the front and rear limbs, bilateral cataracts and strabismus were noticed. Milk and blood from the mother, as well as blood from the healthy and affected cubs were collected in order to evaluate complete blood counts, serum chemistry values, and amino acid levels. The amino acid concentrations in the artificial formula were also evaluated for comparison to the milk from the dam. The concentration of taurine, arginine, phenylalanine, tryptophan and histidine were very low in the artificial formulas as compared to the dam´s milk. The tiger cubs that received the artificial formula had lower levels of the amino acids listed previously as compared to those that nursed from the dam naturally. Taurine, as well as arginine, phenylalanine, tryptophan and histidine deficiency appeared to be possible causes of the development of skin problems, cataracts and strabismus in the tiger cubs fed with these particular artificial milk replacers. In the future, special attention should be given in order to make sure that adequate levels of these amino acids are present in artificial milk for tiger cubs.

Background: Cataract is the major cause for visual disturbance. We aim to investigate lens opacity grade and score in residents aged ≥ 50 yrs in Hainan Province. Methods: Random sampling was carried out to investigate the condition of lens opacity in residents aged ≥ 50 yrs of four cities at different geographic locations. Grading of lens opacity was based on the criteria of Lens Opacity Classification System III (LOCS III), which included nuclear opacity of 1~6 grade, and posterior capsular or cortical opacity of 1~5 grade. Score of lens was performed by summing nuclear, posterior capsular and cortical opacity grade. Results: In total, 2,288 subjects were included in this study. In total, 2,619 (57.2%) eyes showed type of opacity in nuclear, and posterior capsular or cortical with an LOCS III grade of greater than 3. The major type of opacity was mixed opacity type (65.9%), followed by nuclear type (31.9%), posterior capsular type (1.5%) and cortical type (0.7%). As for lens score, most of the subjects aged 50~59 yrs and 60~69 yrs showed a score of 3~6 (87.2%, 59.9%). Among the subjects aged 70~79 yrs, a score of 7~9 was noticed in majority of subjects (35.6%). For those aged ≥ 80 yrs, most of them showed a score of 10~12 (28.2%). Conclusion: The mixed lens opacity type was the main type of lens opacity in residents aged ≥ 50 yrs in Hainan Province, followed by nuclear opacity. Chi-square test showed that types or scores of lens opacity were different in various age groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cataract is a major cause of visual impairment in diabetic patients. Due to increasing numbers of type 1 and type 2 diabetics worldwide, the incidence of diabetic cataracts steadily rises. Cataract surgery is the best possible cure for patients suffering from this ailment. However, the elucidation of pathomechanisms to delay or prevent the development of cataract in diabetic patients remains a challenge. Objective: The aim of the present study was to develop a polyherbal eyedrops containing potent antioxidant herbal extract and study the effectiveness as prophylactic treatment against galactose-induced diabetic cataract. Materials and Methods: Formulations were prepared by using extracts of Ginkgo biloba leaves, beet root (Beta vulgaris), and amla (Emblica officinalis) fruits. The viscosity enhancers were used to increase the retention time. Formulations (F1–F5) were prepared by using carboxy methyl cellulose and poly ethylene glycol-400 as thickening agents and propylene glycol as a solubilizer. Preliminary evaluation showed that formulations have passed clarity, sterility, and eye irritancy tests. Viscosity and pH of formulation were within the normal range. Diabetic cataract was induced in Wistar rats by 10% galactose drink (for 30 days) and anticataract activity was evaluated. Formulation was installed in eye as a prophylactic treatment from day 1 of galactose drinking and continued for 30 days. Results: Slit-lamp photography of eyes of rats showed clear lens of rats without any trace of opacity. On the other hand, galactose-treated rats developed dense nuclear opacity in lens as an indication of diabetic cataract. Rats which received prophylactic treatment showed less percent opacity as compared to that of cataract control group and decreased vacuoles. Conclusion: We may conclude that polyherbal formulation containing extracts of Ginkgo biloba leaves, beet root (Beta Vulgaris), and amla (Emblica officinalis) fruits may prevent the development of cataract in diabetic patients. Abbreviations used: ARI: Aldose reductase inhibitors; GPx: Glutathione peroxidase; GR: Glutathione reductase; DTNB: Dithio-bis-nitrobenzoic acid; GSH: Thiol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Purpose: To report ophthalmic examination findings and intraocular pressures (IOPs) in wild‐caught African giant pouched rats (Cricetomys ansorgei and gambianus) from Tanzania and Ghana. Procedures: After being placed under general anesthesia for examination, slit‐lamp biomicroscopy before and after pharmacologic mydriasis and indirect ophthalmoscopy was performed. Eyes were fluorescein stained and IOPs measured by rebound tonometry using the TonoVet®. Results: Thirty‐two sexually mature pouched rats (64 eyes) were examined, including 16 males and 16 females. The mean IOP (± standard deviation) was 7.7 (±2.9) mmHg. Fluorescein staining was negative in all eyes. One or more ocular abnormalities were detected in 21 pouched rats (35 eyes). These ocular lesions included the following: lens opacities (n = 23 eyes), persistent pupillary membranes (n = 5), chorioretinal scarring (n = 3), corneal vascularization (n = 2), palpebral margin defect with focal trichiasis (n = 2), phthisis bulbi (n = 1), and posterior synechiae (n = 1). Lens opacities included incipient anterior cortical opacities (n = 7), immature cataract (n = 6), incipient nuclear opacities (n = 5), punctate pigment on anterior lens capsule (n = 2 eyes), incipient suture tip opacities (n = 2), and hypermature cataract (n = 1). Conclusions: Ocular abnormalities were common in the evaluated population of giant pouched rats; however, most of the detected lesions were mild and believed to have minimal impact on vision. Rebound tonometry with the TonoVet® was a reliable and simple technique to measure IOPs in the anesthetized pouched rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accumulation of intracellular sorbitol due to increased aldose reductase (AR or ALR2) activity is one of the pathways implicated in the development of long-term diabetic complications. In the present study, we described the inhibition of ALR2 by ellagic acid (EA), a bioflavonoid present in many dietary sources. EA inhibited ALR2 with an IC50 of 48 nM in a non-competitive manner. Further, EA is relatively more specific towards ALR2 as it did not inhibit aldehyde reductase, a closely related member of AKR family. Molecular docking studies support and substantiate these findings. Further, EA suppressed sorbitol accumulation in human erythrocytes, rat lens and rat retina under high glucose conditions. Finally, physiologic significance of EA was demonstrated in terms of delay of diabetic cataract in rats as a prototype model of diabetic complications. Together, these observations suggest that EA holds a therapeutic promise to prevent or treat complications of diabetes.

Workers involved in interventional cardiology procedures receive high eye lens doses if radiation protection tools are not properly utilized. Currently, there is no suitable method for routine measurement of eye dose. In Thailand, the eye lens equivalent doses in terms of Hp(3) of the interventional cardiologists, nurses, and radiographers participating in interventional cardiology procedures have been measured at 12 centers since 2015 in the pilot study. The optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dosimeter was used for measurement of the occupational exposure and the eye lens dose of 42 interventional cardiology personnel at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital as one of the pilot centers. For all personnel, it is recommended that a first In Light OSL badge is placed at waist level and under the lead apron for determination of Hp(10); a second badge is placed at the collar for determination of Hp(0.07) and estimation of Hp(3). Nano Dots OSL dosimeter has been used as an eye lens dosimeter for 16 interventional cardiology personnel, both with and without lead-glass eyewear. The mean effective dose at the body, equivalent dose at the collar, and estimated eye lens dose were 0.801, 5.88, and 5.70 mSv per year, respectively. The mean eye lens dose measured by the Nano Dots dosimeter was 8.059 mSv per year on the left eye and 3.552 mSv per year on the right eye. Two of 16 interventional cardiologists received annual eye lens doses on the left side without lead glass that were higher than 20 mSv per year, the new eye lens dose limit as recommended by ICRP with the risk of eye lens opacity and cataract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]