Sutured scleral fixation of existing subluxated/dislocated acrylic one-piece intraocular lenses

AIM:To evaluate the visual and refractive outcomes in cases after sutured scleral fixation of existing subluxated or dislocated acrylic one-piece intraocular lenses(IOLs).METHODS:This study retrospectively enrolled a consecutive series of patients who underwent a surgery of sutured existing subluxated or dislocated IOLs from October 2018 to June 2020.All patients underwent comprehensive preoperative and postoperative ophthalmologic examination,and data were collected including age,sex,surgical indications,best-corrected visual acuity,refractive error,intraocular pressure.Presence of intraoperative and postoperative surgical complications was documented.RESULTS:A total of 20 consecutive cases were enrolled for analysis with mean final follow-up period 9.8±5.3mo.Visual acuity improved from a mean of 0.35(0.46±0.32 logMAR)preoperatively to 0.61(0.21±0.18 logMAR)at the 3-month follow-up(P=0.002).The mean amount of preoperative keratometric astigmatism and total postoperative refractive astigmatism was-1.24±0.80 diopters(D)and-1.42±0.97 D,respectively.There was no statistically significant difference between preoperative and postoperative astigmatism(P=0.156).The mean IOL-induced astigmatism was-0.23±0.53 D.The mean spherical equivalent at the 3-month follow-up was-0.1±0.94 D.No major complications were noted during the follow-up period.CONCLUSION:Surgical techniques using sutured scleral fixation of existing subluxated or dislocated acrylic one-piece IOLs result in favorable visual and refractive outcomes without major complications.

Changes in visual performance after implantation of different intraocular lenses

AIM:To evaluate the trending visual performance of different intraocular lenses(IOLs)over time after implantation.METHODS:Ninety-one patients received cataract surgery with implantations of monofocal(Mon)IOLs,segmental refractive(SegRef)IOLs,diffractive(Dif)IOLs,and extendeddepth-of-focus(EDoF)IOLs were included.The aberrations and optical quality collected with iTrace and OQAS within postoperative 6mo were followed and compared.RESULTS:Most of the visual parameters improved over the postoperative 6mo.The postoperative visual acuity(POVA)of the Mon IOL,SegRef IOL,and EDoF IOL groups achieved relative stability in earlier states compared with the Dif IOL group.Nevertheless,the overall visual performance of the 3 IOLs continued to upturn in small extents within the postoperative 6mo.The optical quality initially improved in the EDoF IOL group,then in the Mon IOL,SegRef IOL,and Dif IOL groups.POVA and objective visual performance of the Mon IOL and EDoF IOL groups,as well as POVA and visual quality of the Dif IOL group,improved in the postoperative 1mo and stabilized.Within the postoperative 6mo,gradual improvements were observed in the visual acuity and objective visual performance of the SegRef IOL group,as well as in the postoperative optical quality of the Dif IOL group.CONCLUSION:The visual performance is different among eyes implanted with different IOLs.The findings of the current study provide a potential reference for ophthalmologists to choose suitable IOLs for cataract patients in a personalized solution.

Effectivity and safety of trifocal intraocular lenses and capsular tension rings implantation for cataract patients with axial high myopia

●AIM:To assess effectivity and safety of trifocal intraocular lenses(IOLs)and capsular tension rings in treating cataract patients with axial high myopia.●METHODS:A prospective nonrandomized controlled clinical trial was conducted.Totally 98 eyes(74 patients)who underwent femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery(FLACS)with trifocal IOLs were enrolled in the study and followed up for 2y after surgery:46 eyes(33 patients)with capsular tension ring implantation in the long axial lengths(AL)group(26<AL<29 mm)and 52 eyes(41 patients)in the normal AL group(22<AL<24.5 mm).Postoperative outcomes about effectivity and safety,including the subjective and objective visual quality,and postoperative complications were assessed.●RESULTS:Uncorrected distance visual acuity at 5 m and uncorrected intermediate visual acuity at 60 and 80 cm in the long AL group were significantly worse than those in the normal AL group at 3mo postoperatively(P<0.05).The differences in reading speed,spectacle independence and potential visual complaints between the two groups were not statistically significant(P>0.05).The dysfunctional lens index and total modulation transfer function(MTF)average height were similar between the two groups.The postoperative internal coma aberrations in the axial high myopia eyes were significantly higher than that in the normal AL group(P<0.05).The total satisfaction score in the long AL group(91.32±2.76)was slightly higher than that in the normal AL group(90.36±3.47),but there was no difference(P=0.136).A statistically negative correlation was found between corrected distance visual acuity(CDVA)and dysfunctional lens index(r=-0.382,P=0.009),and between CDVA and the total MTF average height(r=-0.374,P=0.01).But there was no significant correlation between CDVA and total satisfaction score(r=0.059,P=0.696).Postoperative complications mainly presented as posterior capsular opacity(PCO),retinal detachment and cystoid macular edema.There was no difference in the incidence of fundus disease(6.5%vs 3.8%,P=0.663)or PCO(17.4%vs 7.7%,P=0.217)between the two groups at two years.●CONCLUSION:The utilization of trifocal IOL and capsular tension ring implantation is beneficial for cataract patients with axial high myopia undergoing FLACS.This approach not only ensures excellent subjective feelings and objective visual quality,but also does not increase the incidence of postoperative complications.

Flapless one-knot suture:a novel surgical technique for transscleral fixation of C-loop intraocular lenses

AIM:To describe a novel suture approach for transscleral fixation of C-loop intraocular lenses(IOL)and to compare the surgical outcomes with the four-haptics posterior chamber(PC)-IOL technique.METHODS:We retrospectively analyzed 16 eyes of 16 patients who underwent transscleral fixation of C-loop PCIOLs using a flapless one-knot suture technique,which were followed up for longer than 17mo.In this technique,the capsulorless IOL was suspended using a single suture for transscleral fixation of four feet.Then we compared its surgical outcomes and complications with the four-haptics PC-IOLs using the Student's t test and Chi-square test.RESULTS:Sixteen patients of 16 eyes with a mean age of 58.3±10.1y(42-76y)who received transscleral C-loop IOL implantation due to trauma,vitrectomy,or cataract surgery with inadequate capsule support showed improved visual acuity.The difference was not significant between two IOLs except the surgery time(P>0.05).The mean operation times of C-loop IOL surgery was 24.1±1.83min and 31.3±4.47min of the four-haptics PC-IOL method(P<0.0001).In the C-loop IOLs group,there was statistical difference between the preoperative and the postoperative UCVA(log MAR,1.20±0.50 vs 0.57±0.32,P=0.0003).There was no statistical difference between the preoperative and the postoperative BCVA(log MAR,0.66±0.46 vs 0.40±0.23,P=0.056).However,there was no statistically significant difference in postoperative UCVA and BCVA between the two IOLs(P>0.05).We did not detect any optic capture,IOL decentration or dislocation,suture exposed,or cystoid macular edema in patients underwent C-loop IOLs surgery.CONCLUSION:The novel flapless one-knot suture technique for transscleral fixation of C-loop IOL is a simple,reliable,and stable technique.

A new software for automated counting of glistenings in intraocular lenses in vivo

AIM:To assess the performance of a bespoke software for automated counting of intraocular lens(IOL)glistenings in slit-lamp images.METHODS:IOL glistenings from slit-lamp-derived digital images were counted manually and automatically by the bespoke software.The images of one randomly selected eye from each of 34 participants were used as a training set to determine the threshold setting that gave the best agreement between manual and automatic grading.A second set of 63 images,selected using randomised stratified sampling from 290 images,were used for software validation.The images were obtained using a previously described protocol.Software-derived automated glistenings counts were compared to manual counts produced by three ophthalmologists.RESULTS:A threshold value of 140 was determined that minimised the total deviation in the number of glistenings for the 34 images in the training set.Using this threshold value,only slight agreement was found between automated software counts and manual expert counts for the validating set of 63 images(κ=0.104,95%CI,0.040-0.168).Ten images(15.9%)had glistenings counts that agreed between the software and manual counting.There were 49 images(77.8%)where the software overestimated the number of glistenings.CONCLUSION:The low levels of agreement show between an initial release of software used to automatically count glistenings in in vivo slit-lamp images and manual counting indicates that this is a non-trivial application.Iterative improvement involving a dialogue between software developers and experienced ophthalmologists is required to optimise agreement.The results suggest that validation of software is necessary for studies involving semi-automatic evaluation of glistenings.

Effectiveness of toric soft contact lenses for vision correction in patients with different degrees of astigmatism: a real-world study

AIM:To assess the visual correction of patients with different degrees of astigmatism with toric soft contact lenses(TSC).METHODS:It was a real-world study with prospective and single-arm design.A total of 384 patients with astigmatism who came for TSC fitting and alignment from November 2022 to January 2023 were included.According to the difference in astigmatism,patients were divided into groups A(cylinder degree:-0.75 to-0.50 D),B(cylinder degree:-1.75 to-1.00 D)and C(cylinder degree≤-2.00 D),and followed up on the day of wear,1wk,1 and 3mo,mainly to observe visual acuity,refraction,lens fit,visual quality and comfort at 1wk after wear.The visual acuity success rate and the overall success rate of the fitting were evaluation indicators(taking into account the four dimensions of visual acuity,fitting,quality of vision and comfort).The visual acuity success rate was calculated by taking“corrected visual acuity with contact lenses is no less than 1 line or better than best spectacle-corrected visual acuity”(i.e.corrected visual acuity with contact lenses is 1 line below,equal to,one line above or more than best spectaclecorrected visual acuity)as the criterion for visual success,and the the overall success rate of the fitting was calculated by using the comprehensive indicators(visual acuity,fit,visual quality,comfort)to meet certain conditions as the judgment criteria for successful fitting.RESULTS:After 1wk of wearing TSC,the visual acuity success rates of patients were 100%(207/207),98.58%(139/141)and 97.22%(35/36)in the three groups,respectively,with residual cylinder closed to 0.The acceptability of the lens fitting was over 95%;the incidence of adverse visual symptoms was within 10%and the comfort acceptability was over 97%.The overall success rate of fitting for patients with high,medium and low astigmatism was 93.72%(194/207),90.78%(128/141)and 88.89%(32/36),respectively.CONCLUSION:TSC(model:G&G POP·CT)are effective in correcting astigmatism in patients with different degrees of astigmatism.

Efficacy of custom-made soft keratoconus lenses on corneal aberrations and photic phenomena in patients with keratoconus:a corneal topography imaging based study

AIM:To evaluate the efficacy of custom-made soft keratoconus(KC)lenses on corneal aberrations and photic phenomena in two different optical zones in patients with KC.METHODS:Sixty eyes of 42 patients with KC were examined at baseline and after fitting HydroCone(Toris K)soft silicone hydrogel lenses.Best spectacle-corrected visual acuity(BSCVA)and contact lens-corrected visual acuity(CLCVA)were recorded.Lower-and higher-order corneal aberrations(LOAs and HOAs)were measured with and without Toris K lenses and compared in central 4.5 mm and 7 mm zones.Mesopic pupil diameter and subjective photic phenomena were also assessed.RESULTS:Mean CLCVA was significantly improved compared to BSCVA(P<0.0001).Corneal curvature and refractive measurements were found to be significantly reduced by the use of Toris K lenses,except for posterior corneal curvature values.In the 4.5 mm central optical zone,all wavefront aberrations decreased significantly after lens fitting(P<0.0001).In contrast,in the 7 mm(peripheral)optical zone,values for HOAs,spherical and residual aberrations,and optical path differences were increased,while LOAs,trefoil,and quadrifoil coefficients were decreased.The rate of photic phenomena was significantly higher in participants with a pupil size>6.00 mm(85.7%).CONCLUSION:Toris K lenses provide good visual results and a significant reduction in central corneal aberrations in patients with KC but could cause an increase in peripheral aberrations.This practical and nonsurgical approach appears to be an effective method for the visual management of KC.

Rotational stability of plate haptic toric intraocular lenses after combined 25-gauge vitrectomy and cataract surgery

AIM:To evaluate the postoperative intraocular lens(IOL)rotational stability and residual refractive astigmatism following combined 25-gauge vitrectomy and cataract surgery with implantation of a plate haptic toric IOL.METHODS:In this retrospective case series,32 eyes of 32 patients underwent a combined 25-gauge vitrectomy and phacoemulsification for vitreoretinal diseases and cataract with regular corneal astigmatism of at least 1 diopter(D).A plate haptic toric IOL(AT Torbi 709M,Carl Zeiss Meditec AG)was implanted in all eyes.The outcome measures were rotational stability and refractive astigmatism up to 6mo postoperatively as well as the best corrected visual acuity(BCVA).RESULTS:Preoperative refractive astigmatism was 2.14±1.17 D,which was significantly reduced to 0.77±0.37 D six to eight weeks postoperatively and remained stable throughout the observation period(0.67±0.44 D at three months and 0.75±0.25 D at six months;for all groups:P<0.0001 compared to baseline).BCVA improved significantly from 0.36±0.33 logMAR preoperatively to 0.10±0.15 logMAR following surgery(P=0.02).Mean IOL axis deviation from the target axis was 3.4°±2.9°after six to eight weeks and significantly decreased over time(2.4°±2.6°six months after surgery;P=0.04).In one patient IOL,re-alignment was performed.CONCLUSION:Corneal astigmatism is significantly reduced following combined 25-gauge vitrectomy and cataract surgery.The plate haptic toric IOL position and axis remain stable during the observation period of six months.

Relativistic Supernova Blast Waves Exhibit Properties of Gravitational Lenses and the Hubble Constant

Simulations based on Supernova (SN) observations predict several galactic SN explosions (SNe) can occur every century. Unlike SNes within the Interstellar Medium (ISM) where ambient gas generally absorbs blast waves within a million years, SNes occurring in a rarified environment outside of the ISM generate blast waves which remain in a relativistic free expansion phase for more extended periods. The SN blast wave forms an expanding spherical shell and when multiple blast waves intersect, the overlapping region naturally takes the form of a ring, an arc, or an Einstein Cross structure. The analysis shows the relativistic plasma establishes a medium with permeability which drives the index of refraction greater than 1. As a result, when a shock discontinuity forms in the overlapping region, light is reflected from the host galaxy which exposes the intersecting blast wave regions. The expanding shells are shown to induce an achromatic redshift to the reflected light consistent with those measured for gravitational lenses. Further, it is shown that a Hubble equation for a blast wave around the Milky Way Galaxy can be parameterized to approximate measured redshifts over a wide range of distances.

Clinical prediction of insufficient vaults after implantable collamer lens implantation

AIM:To determine the factors related to preoperative ocular characters that are predictive of insufficient vault(<250μm)after implantable collamer lens(ICL V4c;STAAR Surgical)implantation.METHODS:The participants underwent ICL surgery and were divided into the low(<250μm)and normal(250-1000μm)vault groups based on the postoperative vault at 3mo.The preoperative biometric parameters and clinical outcomes were compared between the two groups.The relationship between the 3-month vault values and preoperative ocular parameters were evaluated by Generalized estimating equations.RESULTS:Sixteen(23 eyes)and 36 patients(63 eyes)were in the low and normal vault groups,respectively.All implantation procedures were uneventful with no cataract formation in the early postoperative period.The sulcusto-sulcus lens rise(STSL)and iris ciliary angle(ICA)were correlated with vault at 3mo after surgery.Every 0.1 mm increase in STSL was associated with 38.9μm decrease in the postoperative 3-month vault.A rise of 1 degree in ICA is associated with a reduction of 4μm in vault.CONCLUSION:Eyes with a narrow ciliary sulcus are associated with a higher rate of low vault after ICL implantation,suggesting a need for adjustments to the ICL size in these patients.Evaluating the characteristics of the ciliary sulcus contributes valuable information to predict low vault after surgery.

Intraocular lens selection in diabetic patients:How to increase the odds for success

The incidence of cataracts is significantly higher in diabetic individuals,particularly in younger age groups,with rates quadrupled in those under 65 and doubled in those over 65 compared to non-diabetics.Cataract surgery in diabetic patients poses many challenges:Poor epithelial healing,decreased corneal sensitivity,increased central corneal thickness,decreased endothelial cell count,variable topography,poor pupillary dilatation,anterior capsular phimosis,posterior capsular opacification(PCO),chances of progression of diabetic retinopathy(DR),zonular weakness,and vitreous prolapse and diabetic macular edema.Selection of an appropriate intraocular lens(IOL)is crucial for visual rehabilitation and monitoring DR.The choice of IOL in diabetic cataract patients is a challenging scenario.Square-edge IOLs are favored for their capacity to mitigate PCO,whereas hydrophilic counterparts may incur calcification in the setting of proliferative DR.The advisability of premium IOLs for achieving spectacle independence warrants judicious evaluation,particularly in the presence of advanced retinopathy.Optimal IOL placement within the capsular bag is advocated to minimize postoperative complications.Rigorous preoperative assessment and informed patient counseling regarding IOL options are indispensable for optimizing surgical outcomes.This review article covers various aspects regarding the choice of IOLs in different case scenarios and complications in the diabetic population.

Impact of multifocal gas-permeable lens designs on short-term choroidal response, axial length, and retinal defocus profile

AIM:To investigate the impact of multifocal gas permeable contact lens(MFGPCL)in various add power and distance/near area allocation on short-term changes of choroidal thickness(ChT),axial length(AL),and retinal defocus profile in young adults.METHODS:Seventeen young adults(2 males and 15 females;age 23.17±4.48y)were randomly assigned to wear two designs binocularly with a one-week washout period in between.Total of four MFGPCL designs were assessed.All designs were distance-center that varied in two add power(+1.50 and 3.00 D)and/or two distance zone(DZ)diameters(1.50 and 3.00 mm;design A:DZ 1.5/add 3.0,B:DZ 1.5/add 1.5,C:DZ 3.0/add 3.0,D:DZ 3.0/add 1.5).ChT,AL,and peripheral refraction data were collected on each subject at baseline,on days 1 and 7 of MFGPCL daily wear.ChT was assessed in four quadrants using a spectraldomain optical coherence tomography.RESULTS:AL was shortened by-26±44μm with lens C,-18±27μm with lens D,-13±29μm with lens A,and-8±30μm with lens B(all P<0.05).A significant overall increase in ChT was observed with all 4 designs(lens A:+6±6μm,B:+3±7μm,C:+8±7μm,and D:+8±7μm).Temporal and superior choroid exhibited more choroidal thickening associated with MFGPCL.All designs induced significant relative peripheral myopia(RPM)beyond the central 20o across the horizontal meridian in both nasal and temporal fields(P<0.05).CONCLUSION:MFGPCLs show a significant influence on ChT and AL,which are associated with significant increase in RPM after short-term wear.The reliability and feasibility of quantifying short-term changes in ChT support its use as a promising marker for the long-term efficacy of myopia-controlling treatments.

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in highly myopic eyes with implantable collamer lens

AIM:To investigate the clinical characteristics,treatment methods and outcomes of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment(RRD)in highly myopic eyes with implantable collamer lens(ICL).METHODS:High myopia patients who received treatment for nontraumatic RRD after ICL implantation surgery at the Retinal Department of Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center from Jan 2018 to Dec 2022 were reviewed.Comprehensive ophthalmologic examinations including visual acuity measurement and digital fundus photography were performed in each patient.RESULTS:A total of nine RRD eyes from nine patients who received V4c-ICL implantation were included.The mean time from ICL implantation surgery to the diagnosis of RRD was 32.44±22.56mo(range,1-60mo).At the initial visit for RRD,giant retinal tear(GRT),horseshoe tear,simple round hole,and horseshoe tear combined with round hole were detected in 3,3,2,and 1 eye(s),respectively,with maculaoff in eyes.Eight patients received surgical treatment,and one patient was treated by retinal laser photocoagulation alone.The ICL was preserved in 7 eyes.At the last followup,the mean best corrected visual acuity(BCVA)improved significantly from 1.76±1.06 logMAR at presentation to 0.81±1.01 logMAR(P=0.035),and no case of recurrent retinal detachment was found.CONCLUSION:The morphological presentation of retinal breaks is diverse in this study.The ICL can be preserved in most cases during the course of retinal detachment repair surgery in our data,companied with acceptable visual and anatomical outcomes.

Effectiveness and safety of early lens extraction during par plana vitrectomy for proliferative diabetes retinopathy with mild cataract:a randomized clinical trial

●AIM:To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of early lens extraction during pars plana vitrectomy(PPV)for proliferative diabetic retinopathy(PDR)compared to those of PPV with subsequent cataract surgery.●METHODS:This multicenter randomized controlled trial was conducted in three Chinese hospitals on patients with PDR,aged>45y,with mild cataracts.The participants were randomly assigned to the combined(PPV combined with simultaneously cataract surgery,i.e.,phacovitrectomy)or subsequent(PPV with subsequent cataract surgery 6mo later)group and followed up for 12mo.The primary outcome was the change in best-corrected visual acuity(BCVA)from baseline to 6mo,and the secondary outcomes included complication rates and medical expenses.●RESULTS:In total,129 patients with PDR were recruited and equally randomized(66 and 63 in the combined and subsequent groups respectively).The change in BCVA in the combined group[mean,36.90 letters;95%confidence interval(CI),30.35–43.45]was significantly better(adjusted difference,16.43;95%CI,8.77–24.08;P<0.001)than in the subsequent group(mean,22.40 letters;95%CI,15.55–29.24)6mo after the PPV,with no significant difference between the two groups at 12mo.The overall surgical risk of two sequential surgeries was significantly higher than that of the combined surgery for neovascular glaucoma(17.65%vs 3.77%,P=0.005).No significant differences were found in the photocoagulation spots,surgical time,and economic expenses between two groups.In the subsequent group,the duration of work incapacity(22.54±9.11d)was significantly longer(P<0.001)than that of the combined group(12.44±6.48d).●CONCLUSION:PDR patients aged over 45y with mild cataract can also benefit from early lens extraction during PPV with gratifying effectiveness,safety and convenience,compared to sequential surgeries.

Design and fabrication of compound varifocal lens driven by polydimethylsiloxane film elastic deformation

A compound varifocal lens based on electromagnetic drive technology is designed and fabricated, where the polydimethylsiloxane(PDMS) film acts as a driving component, while the PDMS biconvex lens and the plane-concave lens form a coaxial compound lens system. The plane-concave lens equipped with driving coils is installed directly above the PDMS lens surrounded by the annular magnet. When different currents are applied, the annular magnet moves up and down, driving the PDMS film to undergo elastic deformation, and then resulting in longitudinal movement of the PDMS lens. The position change of the PDMS lens changes the focal length of the compound lens system. To verify the feasibility and practicability of this design, a prototype of our compound lens system is fabricated in experiment. Our proposed compound lens shows that its zoom ability reaches 9.28 mm when the current ranges from -0.20 A to 0.21 A.

Refractive outcomes after V4c Toric collamer lens implantation over 1y of follow-up

AIM:To evaluate refractive outcomes and corneal astigmatism changes after Toric implantable collamer lens with a central port(V4c T-ICL)implantation over 1y of follow-up.METHODS:A retrospective study was performed including 50 eyes of 50 patients that underwent V4c T-ICL implantation.Uncorrected(UDVA)and corrected(CDVA)distance visual acuities,refraction,refractive and corneal astigmatism changes and corneal coupling correction were evaluated preoperatively,1 and 12mo postoperatively.Vector analysis was used for astigmatism changes.Coefficient of adjustment(CAdj)was calculated for corneal coupling analysis.RESULTS:The mean UDVA achieved was 0.03 logMAR at 1mo and remained unchanged throughout the whole follow-up(P=0.193).At the last visit,84%of the eyes achieved a CDVA of 0.00 logMAR or better.Regarding spherical equivalent refraction(SEQ),96%of eyes were ranges of±1.00 D and 84%of them within±0.50 D.Also,94%of eyes had a remaining refractive cylinder within±1.00 D and 78%of them within±0.50 D.Both,SEQ and refractive cylinder,remain stable over the postoperative follow-up(P=1.000 and P=0.660,respectively).In terms of surgically induced astigmatism(SIA),no statistically significant differences were found over the follow-up(P=0.102)and under correction was found with a correction index lower than the unit at each visit.A keratometric astigmatism induced of 0.59±0.53(vector mean:0.26×73º)D was reached at the last visit.No significant changes in terms of corneal astigmatism orientation were reported over post-surgery visits(P=0.129 and P=0.097 at 1 and 12mo respectively).No clinical significance was found for CAdj on with-the-rule astigmatism.No postoperative complications resulting from the surgery were found.CONCLUSION:Refractive outcomes suggest that the V4c T-ICL implantation for correction of myopic astigmatism was satisfactory in terms of effectiveness,safety,and stability during 1y of follow-up.Corneal astigmatism induced by the incision around 0.5 D is achieved according to the remaining refractive cylinder found at one-year post-surgery.Corneal coupling analysis results in no unexpected spherical change.

Overexpression of TRPV1 activates autophagy in human lens epithelial cells under hyperosmotic stress through Ca^(2+)-dependent AMPK/mTOR pathway

●AIM:To explore whether autophagy functions as a cellular adaptation mechanism in lens epithelial cells(LECs)under hyperosmotic stress.●METHODS:LECs were treated with hyperosmotic stress at the concentration of 270,300,400,500,or 600 mOsm for 6,12,18,24h in vitro.Polymerase chain reaction(PCR)was employed for the mRNA expression of autophagyrelated genes,while Western blotting detected the targeted protein expression.The transfection of stub-RFP-sens-GFPLC3 autophagy-related double fluorescence lentivirus was conducted to detect the level of autophagy flux.Scanning electron microscopy was used to detect the existence of autolysosome.Short interfering RNA of autophagy-related gene(ATG)7,transient receptor potential vanilloid(TRPV)1 overexpression plasmid,related agonists and inhibitors were employed to their influence on autophagy related pathway.Flow cytometry was employed to test the apoptosis and intracellular Ca^(2+)level.Mitochondrial membrane potential was measured by JC-1 staining.The cell counting kit-8 assay was used to calculate the cellular viability.The wound healing assay was used to evaluate the wound closure rate.GraphPad 6.0 software was utilized to evaluate the data.●RESULTS:The hyperosmotic stress activated autophagy in a pressure-and time-dependent manner in LECs.Beclin 1 protein expression and conversion of LC3B II to LC3B I increased,whereas sequestosome-1(SQSTM1)protein expression decreased.Transient Ca^(2+)influx was stimulated caused by hyperosmotic stress,levels of mammalian target of rapamycin(mTOR)phosphorylation decreased,and the level of AMP-activated protein kinase(AMPK)phosphorylation increased in the early stage.Based on this evidence,autophagy activation through the Ca^(2+)-dependent AMPK/mTOR pathway might represent an adaptation process in LECs under hyperosmotic stress.Hyperosmotic stress decreased cellular viability and accelerated apoptosis in LECs and cellular migration decreased.Inhibition of autophagy by ATG7 knockdown had similar results.TRPV1 overexpression increased autophagy and might be crucial in the occurrence of autophagy promoted by hyperosmotic stress.●CONCLUSION:A combination of hyperosmotic stress and autophagy inhibition may be a promising approach to decrease the number of LECs in the capsular bag and pave the way for improving prevention of posterior capsular opacification and capsular fibrosis.

SIRT1 inhibits apoptosis of human lens epithelial cells through suppressing endoplasmic reticulum stress in vitro and in vivo

AIM:To explore the effect of silent information regulator factor 2-related enzyme 1(SIRT1)on modulating apoptosis of human lens epithelial cells(HLECs)and alleviating lens opacification of rats through suppressing endoplasmic reticulum(ER)stress.METHODS:HLECs(SRA01/04)were treated with varying concentrations of tunicamycin(TM)for 24h,and the expression of SIRT1 and C/EBP homologous protein(CHOP)was assessed using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR),Western blotting,and immunofluorescence.Cell morphology and proliferation was evaluated using an inverted microscope and cell counting kit-8(CCK-8)assay,respectively.In the SRA01/04 cell apoptosis model,which underwent siRNA transfection for SIRT1 knockdown and SRT1720 treatment for its activation,the expression levels of SIRT1,CHOP,glucose regulated protein 78(GRP78),and activating transcription factor 4(ATF4)were examined.The potential reversal of SIRT1 knockdown effects by 4-phenyl butyric acid(4-PBA;an ER stress inhibitor)was investigated.In vivo,age-related cataract(ARC)rat models were induced by sodium selenite injection,and the protective role of SIRT1,activated by SRT1720 intraperitoneal injections,was evaluated through morphology observation,hematoxylin and eosin(H&E)staining,Western blotting,and RT-PCR.RESULTS:SIRT1 expression was downregulated in TMinduced SRA01/04 cells.Besides,in SRA01/04 cells,both cell apoptosis and CHOP expression increased with the rising doses of TM.ER stress was stimulated by TM,as evidenced by the increased GRP78 and ATF4 in the SRA01/04 cell apoptosis model.Inhibition of SIRT1 by siRNA knockdown increased ER stress activation,whereas SRT1720 treatment had opposite results.4-PBA partly reverse the adverse effect of SIRT1 knockdown on apoptosis.In vivo,SRT1720 attenuated the lens opacification and weakened the ER stress activation in ARC rat models.CONCLUSION:SIRT1 plays a protective role against TM-induced apoptosis in HLECs and slows the progression of cataract in rats by inhibiting ER stress.These findings suggest a novel strategy for cataract treatment focused on targeting ER stress,highlighting the therapeutic potential of SIRT1 modulation in ARC development.

Effect of capsule treatment on visual acuity and quality after phacoemulsification lens implantation in myopic patients with cataract

BACKGROUND Cataracts pose a significant clinical burden due to their complex pathogenesis.In recent years,an increase in cataracts coexisting with myopia has heightened the incidence of retinopathy and posterior vitreous detachment.Additionally,symptoms of ocular axis elongation,lens nucleus hardening,and vitreous liquefaction have become more prevalent.While conventional extracapsular cataract extraction is commonly employed,it often yields suboptimal visual outcomes.Subsequent advancements in cataract phacoemulsification and lens implantation surgeries have gained widespread acceptance for their ability to improve refraction and significantly improve uncorrected visual acuity.AIM To investigate the effect of capsular treatment after phacoemulsification lens implantation in myopic patients with cataract.METHODS We selected 110 patients(with 134 eyes)with myopia and cataracts treated.These patients were categorized into two groups:an observation group(57 patients with 70 eyes)and a control group(53 patients with 64 eyes).The control group underwent cataract phacoemulsification and lens implantation,while the observation group received a refined capsular treatment based on the control group’s procedure.We assessed the differences in visual acuity and quality between the two groups before and after surgery.RESULTS At six months post-operation,the observation group exhibited significantly improved far vision,intermediate vision,near vision,lower objective scattering index,higher Modulation transfer function cut-off frequency,and overall vision metrics at different contrast levels(100%,20%and 9%)compared to the control group(P<0.05).The total score of the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire in the observation group at 6 months after operation was significantly higher than that in the control group(P<0.05).No significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions was observed between the observation group and control group(P>0.05).CONCLUSION Capsular treatment demonstrates efficacy in improving visual acuity and quality after phacoemulsification lens implantation in myopic patients with cataracts,warranting its clinical application.

Zoned Zircon from Eclogite Lenses in Marbles from the Dabie-Sulu UHP Terrane,China: A Clear Record of Ultra-deep Subduction and Fast Exhumation

Eclogite lenses in marbles from the Dabie-Sulu ultrahigh-pressure （UHP） terrane are deeply subducted meta-sedimentary rocks. Zircons in these rocks have been used to constrain the ages of prograde and UHP metamorphism during subduction, and later retrograde metamorphism during exhumation. Inherited （detrital） and metamorphic zircons were distinguished on the basis of transmitted light microscopy, cathodoluminescence （CL） imaging, trace element contents and mineral inclusions. The distribution of mineral inclusions combined with CL imaging of the metamorphic zircon make it possible to relate zircon zones （domains） to different metamorphic stages. Domain 1 consists of rounded, oblong and spindly cores with dark-luminescent images, and contains quartz eclogite facies mineral inclusion assemblages, indicating formation under high-pressure （HP） metamorphic conditions of T = 571-668℃ and P =1.7-2.02 GPa. Domain 2 always surrounds domain 1 or occurs as rounded and spindly cores with white-luminescent images. It contains coesite eclogite facies mineral inclusion assemblages, indicating formation under UHP metamorphic conditions of T = 782-849℃ and P 〉 5.5 GPa. Domain 3, with gray-luminescent images, always surrounds domain 2 and occurs as the outermost zircon rim. It is characterized by low-pressure mineral inclusion assemblages, which are related to regional amphibolite facies retrograde metamorphism of T = 600- 710℃ and P = 0.7-1.2 GPa. The three metamorphic zircon domains have distinct ages; sample H1 from the Dabie terrane yielded SHRIMP ages of 245 ± 4 Ma for domain 1, 235 ± 3 Ma for domain 2 and 215± 6 Ma for domain 3, whereas sample H2 from the Sulu terrane yielded similar ages of 244 ± 4 Ma, 233 ± 4 Ma and 214 ± 5 Ma for Domains 1, 2 and 3, respectively. The mean ages of these zones suggest that subduction to UHP depths took place over 10-11 Ma and exhumation of the rocks occurred over a period of 19-20 Ma. Thus, subduction from - 55 km to 〉 160 km deep mantle depth took place at rates of approximately 9.5-10.5 km/Ma and exhumation from depths 〉160 km to the base of the crust at -30 km occurred at approximately 6.5 km/Ma. We propose a model for these rocks involving deep subduction of continental margin lithosphere followed by ultrafast exhumation driven by buoyancy forces after break-off of the UHP slab deep within the mantle.