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Brain and Behavior May 2024The internal representation of verticality could be disturbed when a lesion in the central nervous system (CNS) affects the centers where information from the... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
INTRODUCTION
The internal representation of verticality could be disturbed when a lesion in the central nervous system (CNS) affects the centers where information from the vestibular, visual, and/or somatosensory systems, increasing the risk of falling.
OBJECTIVE
The aim was to evaluate the vestibular and somatosensory contribution to the verticality pattern in patients with stroke and other neurological disorders.
METHODS
A literature search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL databases. Cross-sectional, case-control, and cohort studies comparing body verticality in patients with stroke or CNS diseases (CNSD) versus healthy controls were selected. Subjective postural vertical (SPV) in roll and pitch planes was used as the primary variable.
RESULTS
Ten studies reporting data from 390 subjects were included. The overall effect for CNSD patients showed a misperception of body verticality in roll (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI] .84-1.25) and pitch planes (SMD = 1.03; 95% CI .51-1.55). In subgroup analyses, a high effect was observed in the perception of SPV both in roll and pitch planes in stroke (p = .002) and other CNSD (p < .001).
CONCLUSION
These findings suggest a potential misperception of SPV in patients with stroke and other neurological disturbances. Patients with CNSD could present an alteration of vestibular and somatosensory contribution to verticality construction, particularly stroke patients with pusher syndrome (PS), followed by those with PS combined with hemineglect.
Topics: Humans; Nervous System Diseases; Perceptual Disorders; Proprioception; Space Perception; Stroke
PubMed: 38688878
DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3496 -
PloS One 2024To evaluate the efficacy of inverted internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap technique in full-thickness macular holes (MHs) with a size of ≤400 μm compared to the ILM... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
PURPOSE
To evaluate the efficacy of inverted internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap technique in full-thickness macular holes (MHs) with a size of ≤400 μm compared to the ILM peeling technique.
METHODS
Related literatures that compared inverted ILM flap and ILM peeling in MHs ≤ 400 μm were reviewed by searching electronic databases including Pubmed, EMbase, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Cochrane Library up to April 2023. The primary outcome measure was hole closure rate, and the secondary outcome measures were the mean postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), retinal sensitivity, and outer status of the retinal layers, including the external limiting membrane and ellipsoid zone. The quality of the articles was assessed according to the revised version of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials or the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. In the case of heterogeneity, a sensitivity analysis was conducted, and publication bias was visually evaluated using a funnel plot.
RESULTS
This review included six studies with 610 eyes for the primary outcome and 385 eyes for the secondary outcomes, which were two randomized control trials and four retrospective studies. Pooled data revealed that the overall MH closure rate was 99.4% in the inverted ILM flap group and 96.2% in the ILM peeling group, without significant difference between the two groups (odds ratio = 3.91; 95% confidence interval, 0.82~18.69; P = 0.09). The inverted ILM flap technique did not have a favorable effect on the BCVA, retinal sensitivity, or recovery of the outer retinal layers. These results were consistent with those of the subgroup analysis of the different follow-up periods. No significant publication bias was observed.
CONCLUSION
In eyes with MHs of ≤400 μm, both techniques demonstrated excellent surgical outcomes without significant differences. Therefore, surgical techniques can be selected according to surgeon preferences.
Topics: Retinal Perforations; Humans; Surgical Flaps; Visual Acuity; Vitrectomy; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 38683767
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302481 -
Indian Journal of Ophthalmology May 2024Age is an important risk factor for both glaucoma and cataract. As global life expectancy continues to rise, the prevalence of concomitant open-angle glaucoma (OAG) and... (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study
Age is an important risk factor for both glaucoma and cataract. As global life expectancy continues to rise, the prevalence of concomitant open-angle glaucoma (OAG) and cataracts is increasing. Currently, there is a lack of definitive consensus on the optimal management approach for such individuals. Conventionally, trabeculectomy (Trab) in combination with phacoemulsification is the preferred method. Recent developments in microinvasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), which offer similar results with fewer complications, provide a new possible approach to this condition. This study aimed to assess the current knowledge of combination surgery in patients with cataract and OAG to provide a comprehensive understanding and help its implementation in clinical settings. A comprehensive systematic search was conducted in May 2021 on five databases (MEDLINE, Embase, SCOPUS, Proquest, EBSCO, and Cochrane Library). The results were filtered for English and human studies but not publication year. All studies published up to May 2021 were reviewed. Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and PEDro scale were used to screen studies for risk of bias where appropriate. Four studies satisfied the inclusion criteria and were subsequently added in this review. Study designs consisted of one RCT and three descriptive studies. Appropriate assessment tools were used; these studies demonstrated moderate to good quality. Postoperative mean IOP, IOP reduction, and qualified success rates were comparable in the Phaco-MIGS (Phaco-endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP), Phaco-ab interno trabeculectomy (AIT)) and Phaco-Trab group. Severe complication was reported only in the latter. Phaco-MIGS (in particular, trabectome) shows excellent promise as an option for individuals with OAG and concomitant cataract; further research through RCT is required to validate these findings.
Topics: Humans; Glaucoma, Open-Angle; Trabeculectomy; Cataract; Intraocular Pressure; Visual Acuity
PubMed: 38648451
DOI: 10.4103/IJO.IJO_1322_23 -
BMC Ophthalmology Apr 2024This study aims to compare the efficacy of peripheral add multifocal soft contact lenses (SCLs) (excluding bifocal SCLs) with single vision contact lenses or spectacles... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
OBJECTIVES
This study aims to compare the efficacy of peripheral add multifocal soft contact lenses (SCLs) (excluding bifocal SCLs) with single vision contact lenses or spectacles in controlling myopia progression.
METHOD
A comprehensive literature search was conducted in the Pubmed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases until October 2023. The literature was thoroughly screened based on predetermined eligibility criteria. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) were calculated for dichotomous data and weighted mean differences (WMD) for continuous data.
RESULTS
A total of 11 articles comprising 787 participants were included in this meta-analysis. Our pooled results demonstrated that the peripheral add multifocal SCLs groups exhibited significantly reduced refraction progression (MD = 0.20; 95%CI, 0.14 ∼ 0.27; P<0.001) and less axial length elongation (MD=-0.08; 95%CI, -0.09∼-0.08; P<0.001) compared to the control group. There was no significant difference in high-contrast logMAR distance visual acuity between the two groups (MD = 0.01; 95%CI, -0.00 ∼ 0.02; P = 0.19). However, the group using single-vision lenses had better low-contrast logMAR distance visual acuity compared to those using peripheral add multifocal SCLs (MD = 0.06; 95%CI, 0.02 ∼ 0.10; P = 0.004). Data synthesis using a random-effects model indicated an incidence of contact lens-related adverse events of 0.065 (95%CI, 0.048 ∼ 0.083).
CONCLUSIONS
The present meta-analysis signifies that peripheral defocus modifying contact lenses are effective in slowing down the progression of myopia and reducing axial elongation.
Topics: Humans; Myopia; Visual Acuity; Contact Lenses, Hydrophilic; Refraction, Ocular; Vision Tests; Vision Disorders
PubMed: 38627653
DOI: 10.1186/s12886-024-03408-7 -
Advances in Nutrition (Bethesda, Md.) May 2024Antioxidants are bioactive molecules that function to scavenge free radicals and balance oxidative stress. Although all antioxidants can act as reactive oxygen species... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Effect of Antioxidant Supplementation on Macular Pigment Optical Density and Visual Functions: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Antioxidants are bioactive molecules that function to scavenge free radicals and balance oxidative stress. Although all antioxidants can act as reactive oxygen species scavengers, their efficacy on eye health may vary. Moreover, the comparative effectiveness and potential additive effect between groups of antioxidants, hitherto, have not been systematically studied. A systematic review and network meta-analysis were conducted to investigate the comparative or additive effect of dietary antioxidant supplements on eye health. Four databases (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane) were searched, and relevant randomized controlled trials were identified. Out of 60 articles selected for systematic review, 38 were included in the network meta-analysis, categorized into 8 distinct antioxidant-supplemented groups and placebo. All groups significantly increased macular pigment optical density and contrast sensitivity at low spatial frequency, whereas only the antioxidant mixture + lutein (L) + fatty acid combination exhibited significant improvements in visual acuity (hazard ratio = -0.15; 95% confidence interval: -0.28, -0.02) and L + zeaxanthin combination for photostress recovery time (hazard ratio = -5.75; 95% confidence interval: -8.80, -1.70). Especially, the L + zeaxanthin + fatty acid combination was ranked best for macular pigment optical density (surface under the cumulative ranking: 99.3%) and second best for contrast sensitivity at low spatial frequency (67.7%). However, these findings should be interpreted with caution due to low quality of evidence, primarily influenced by indirectness and potential publication bias. Overall, antioxidant supplementation was estimated to improve eye health parameters, whereas different combinations of antioxidants may also have varying effects on improving visual health from multiple perspectives. This study was registered at PROSPERO as CRD42022369250.
Topics: Humans; Antioxidants; Dietary Supplements; Macular Pigment; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Lutein; Visual Acuity; Zeaxanthins; Network Meta-Analysis; Contrast Sensitivity
PubMed: 38582248
DOI: 10.1016/j.advnut.2024.100216 -
American Journal of Ophthalmology Mar 2024To update the literature on peripheral optics and vision following intraocular lens (IOLs) implantation. (Review)
Review
PURPOSE
To update the literature on peripheral optics and vision following intraocular lens (IOLs) implantation.
METHODS
We investigated how current IOLs influence peripheral visual function, peripheral optical quality, and visual perception and performance, in patients following cataract surgery. Peripheral vision is described as vision outside the central foveal region of the eye (beyond 4-5° of eccentricity). We systematically searched PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, and gray literature for relevant references. Randomized controlled trials and observational studies were eligible for inclusion. Finally, 47 studies with a total of 5963 participants were eligible for this review, of which 15 were included in the meta-analysis.
RESULTS
Regarding visual fields, the meta-analysis showed that the pooled estimate of mean deviation (MD) measured with perimetry tests (standard automated perimetry [SAP], short-wavelength automated perimetry [SWAP], and frequency doubling technology [FDT]) appears to be lower than the mean of healthy age-matched controls, regardless of IOL design. Results for pooled estimate show that localized defects (pattern standard deviation [PSD]) were higher than those in the healthy age-matched controls for FDT. We also collected evidence demonstrating that pseudophakia increases peripheral astigmatism and a myopic shift from 20° onward, leading to decreased peripheral image quality compared with that in phakic eyes. Patient-reported outcomes on peripheral vision showed a pooled score estimate of 95.19, indicating high satisfaction, and for the Steps & Stairs questions, a pooled score estimate at 0.23, indicating no to little difficulty seeing steps and stairs.
CONCLUSIONS
Peripheral image quality is degraded in eyes after cataract surgery. Nevertheless, whether this degradation leads to impaired visual function in the periphery requires further investigation.
PubMed: 38521156
DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2024.03.016 -
Journal of Translational Medicine Mar 2024Retinal degenerative disorders (RDDs) cause vision loss by damaging retinal neurons and photoreceptors, affecting individuals of all ages. Cell-based therapy has emerged... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Retinal degenerative disorders (RDDs) cause vision loss by damaging retinal neurons and photoreceptors, affecting individuals of all ages. Cell-based therapy has emerged as an effective approach for the treatment of RDDs with promising results. This meta-analysis aims to comprehensively evaluate the efficacy of cell therapy in treating age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinitis pigmentosa (RP), and Stargardt macular degeneration (SMD) as the most prevalent RDDs.
METHODS
PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase were searched using keywords related to various retinal diseases and cell therapy treatments until November 25th, 2023. The studies' quality was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute's (JBI) checklist for quasi-experimental studies. Visual acuity measured as LogMAR score was used as our main outcome. A three-level random-effect meta-analysis was used to explore the visual acuity in patients who received cell-based therapy. Heterogeneity among the included studies was evaluated using subgroup and sensitivity analyses. Moreover, meta-regression for the type of cells, year of publication, and mean age of participants were performed.
RESULTS
Overall, 8345 studies were retrieved by the search, and 39 met the eligibility criteria, out of which 18 studies with a total of 224 eyes were included in the meta-analysis. There were 12 studies conducted on AMD, 7 on SMD, and 2 on RP. Cell therapy for AMD showed significant improvement in LogMAR (p < 0.05). Also, cell therapy decreased the LogMAR score in SMD and RP (p < 0.01 and p < 0.0001, respectively). Across all conditions, no substantial publication bias was detected (p < 0.05).
CONCLUSION
The findings of the study highlight that the application of cell therapy can enhance the visual acuity in AMD, SMD, and RP.
Topics: Humans; Retina; Macular Degeneration; Visual Acuity; Cell- and Tissue-Based Therapy
PubMed: 38431596
DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05016-x -
Frontiers in Neurology 2024Brain atrophy is a type of neurological and psychiatric disorder characterized by a decrease in brain tissue volume and weight for various reasons and can have a serious...
BACKGROUND
Brain atrophy is a type of neurological and psychiatric disorder characterized by a decrease in brain tissue volume and weight for various reasons and can have a serious impact on the quality of life of patients. Although there are many studies on brain atrophy, there is a lack of relevant bibliometric studies. Therefore, this study aims to provide a visual analysis of global trends in brain atrophy research over the past 16 years.
METHODS
CiteSpace and VOSviewer were used to visually analyze publication output, scientific collaborations, cocitations, publishing journals, and keywords to determine the current status and future trends of brain atrophy research. Materials published from 2008 to 2023 were collected from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database. This study placed no restrictions on the types of literature and focused on English language publications.
RESULTS
A total of 3,371 publications were included in the analysis. From 2008 to 2023, the number of publications increased annually. In terms of national and academic institutions, universities in the United States and University College London rank first in publication out. Barkhof Frederik and Zivadinov Robert are the most prolific researchers in this field. The publication with the highest cocitation strength is "Deep gray matter volume loss drives disability worsening in multiple sclerosis." Keyword clustering analysis showed that "Alzheimer's disease" and "multiple sclerosis" are current popular topics. The analysis of emergent words indicates that "cerebral small vessel disease," "neurodegeneration," and "cortex/gray matter volume" may become hot research topics in the coming years.
CONCLUSION
This study analyses papers on brain atrophy from the past 16 years, providing a new perspective for research in this field. In the past 16 years, research on brain atrophy has received increasing attention. The quality of articles in this field is generally high. Extensive national cooperation already exists. The statistical results indicate that a stable core author group in the field of brain atrophy has almost formed.
PubMed: 38356880
DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1348778 -
Survey of Ophthalmology 2024In phakic patients Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) or Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) are frequently combined with... (Review)
Review
In phakic patients Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) or Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) are frequently combined with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation (triple procedure). This surgery might cause a refractive shift difficult to predict. Early DMEK and DSAEK results have shown a tendency toward a hyperopic shift. Myopic postoperative refraction is typically intended to correct this postoperative refractive defect and to bring all eyes as close to emmetropia as possible. We sought to understand the mechanism underlying the hyperopization and to identify predictive factors for poorer refractive outcomes, the most suitable target refraction and IOL calculation methods in patients undergoing combined cataract extraction and lamellar endothelial corneal transplantation (DSAEK or DMEK) for endothelial dysfunctions. Of the 407 articles analyzed, only 18 were included in the analysis. A myopic target between -0.50 D and -0.75 was the most common (up to -1.50 for DSAEK triple procedures), even though no optimum target was found. Hyperopic surprises appeared more frequently in corneas that were flatter in the center than in the periphery (oblate posterior profile). Among the numerous IOL calculation formulas, there was no apparent preference.
Topics: Humans; Refraction, Ocular; Descemet Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty; Lens Implantation, Intraocular; Phacoemulsification; Visual Acuity
PubMed: 38309315
DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2024.01.003 -
Translational Psychiatry Jan 2024Major depressive disorder (MDD) is marked by altered processing of emotional stimuli, including facial expressions. Recent neuroimaging research has attempted to...
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is marked by altered processing of emotional stimuli, including facial expressions. Recent neuroimaging research has attempted to investigate how these stimuli alter the directional interactions between brain regions in those with MDD; however, methodological heterogeneity has made identifying consistent effects difficult. To address this, we systematically examined studies investigating MDD-associated differences present in effective connectivity during the processing of emotional facial expressions. We searched five databases: PsycINFO, EMBASE, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, using a preregistered protocol (registration number: CRD42021271586). Of the 510 unique studies screened, 17 met our inclusion criteria. These studies identified that compared with healthy controls, participants with MDD demonstrated (1) reduced connectivity from the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex to the amygdala during the processing of negatively valenced expressions, and (2) increased inhibitory connectivity from the ventromedial prefrontal cortex to amygdala during the processing of happy facial expressions. Most studies investigating the amygdala and anterior cingulate cortex noted differences in their connectivity; however, the precise nature of these differences was inconsistent between studies. As such, commonalities observed across neuroimaging modalities warrant careful investigation to determine the specificity of these effects to particular subregions and emotional expressions. Future research examining longitudinal connectivity changes associated with treatment response may provide important insights into mechanisms underpinning therapeutic interventions, thus enabling more targeted treatment strategies.
Topics: Humans; Brain; Brain Mapping; Depressive Disorder, Major; Emotions; Facial Recognition; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Prefrontal Cortex
PubMed: 38272868
DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02734-0