Abstract:This consensus document aims to define a standardized protocol for visual function and imaging examinations preceding vitreoretinal surgery. Preoperative examination can significantly aid physicians in defining surgical indications, evaluating patients' conditions, and providing substantial support for designing surgical plans and predicting prognoses. Compiled by a collaborative expert group representing the Ophthalmic Imaging and Intelligent Medicine Branch of the Chinese Medicine Education Association, in tandem with the Ophthalmology Committee of International Association of Translational Medicine, this consensus integrates recent advancements and research in vitreoretinal surgery from both global and domestic contexts. Following numerous rounds of deliberations and the integration of the latest clinical data, these consensuses have been formulated with the objective of offering support in standardizing preoperative examinations for vitreoretinal surgery, with the broader aim of enhancing medical quality, optimizing resource usage, providing decision-making support, and ensuring the protection of patient rights. This document predominantly encompasses an in-depth review of preoperative examinations for vitreoretinal procedures, which includes, but is not limited to, principles, methodologies, and related precautions of ultra-wide-angle fundus imaging, fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography, ophthalmic B-ultrasound examinations, ultrasound biomicroscopy, optical coherence tomography, optical coherence tomography angiography, orbital CT scan, orbital MRI, ophthalmic electrophysiology tests such as electroretinogram and visually evoked potentials and visual field.

Abstract:Microglia, originating from primitive macrophages in the yolk sac, serves as both immune system defenders and regulators of homeostasis. These cells exhibit two primary polarization states: conventionally activated(M1)and alternatively activated(M2). The polarization of microglia plays a crucial role in influencing inflammatory disorders, metabolic imbalances, and neural degeneration. This process is implicated in various aspects of ocular diseases, especially age-related macular degeneration(AMD), including inflammation, oxidative stress and pathological angiogenesis. The distinct functional phenotypes of microglia impact disease progression and prognosis. Thus, regulating the polarization or functional phenotype of microglia at different stages of AMD holds promise for personalized therapeutic approaches. This comprehensive review outlines the involvement of microglia polarization in both physiological and pathological conditions, emphasizing its relevance in AMD. The discussion underscores the potential of polarization as a foundation for personalized treatment strategies for AMD.

Abstract:AIM: To investigate the role of histidine-rich glycoprotein(HRG)in the neovascularization of diabetic retinopathy in rats.

METHODS: Streptozocin(STZ)-induced diabetic Sprague-Dawley(SD)rats were utilized as an experimental model, the protein expression of HRG and vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)in the retinas of normal(Wild type, WT)and diabetic(diabetic mellitus, DM)groups was detected using Western blot(WB). The protein expression of HRG in high-glucose-induced human retinal microvascular endothelial cells(hRMECs)was verified by WB after transfection with HRG small interfering RNA(siRNA)low-expression sequences. The optimal si-HRG#298 sequence was selected for further experiments. In the animal experiment, HRG gene silencing was achieved using an adeno-associated virus(AAV)vector, with AAV2-sh-NC and AAV2-sh-HRG#298 serving as the HRG gene silencing group and the HRG empty vector control group, respectively. The protein expression of HRG and VEGF in each group was then detected by WB following the verification of HRG protein expression. Retinal structural changes were observed by HE staining, and neovascularization changes were observed by PAS staining.

RESULTS: HE staining found that the retinal structure in the DM group was disordered, the number of cells in the ganglion cell layer decreased, the number of cells in the inner and outer nuclear layers decreased, and the total retinal thickness also decreased(P<0.05); cellular capillaries were significantly increased in DM rats observed by PAS staining(P<0.05); the protein expression of HRG and angiogenesis factor VEGF was up-regulated in the retina of DM group(P<0.05); the protein expression of HRG was significantly downregulated in high glucose-induced hRMECs(P<0.05); the inhibition of neovascularization in diabetic retinas and the downregulation of VEGF protein expression were achieved through HRG gene silencing(P<0.05).

CONCLUSION: HRG promotes neovascularization in the retinas of diabetic rats, and HRG gene silencing can inhibit neovascularization.

Abstract:AIM:To analyze the expression changes of O-linked N-acetylglucosamine(O-GlcNAc)glycoprotein in the lens capsule of age-related cataract and diabetic cataract and investigate the role of O-GlcNAc glycoprotein in diabetic cataract.

METHODS: The lens capsules of 54 patients(56 eyes)with diabetic cataract and 115 patients(120 eyes )with age-related cataract were studied. Immunoblotting was used to detect the expression level of O-GlcNAc protein in the lens capsules of age-related and diabetic cataracts, and mass spectrometry was used to identify the O-GlcNAc glycoproteins in lens capsules.

RESULTS: Immunoblotting results showed that the expression level of O-GlcNAc protein in the lens capsule of diabetic cataracts was significantly higher than in the age-related cataracts(P<0.01). With the level of glycosylated hemoglobin increasing, the expression level of O-GlcNAc protein also increased(P<0.01). Totally 5 O-GlcNAc proteins with up-regulated expression(FABP5, KRT16, PGK1, CTSD and S100A7), and 18 O-GlcNAc proteins with down-regulated expression(CRYβB1, etc.)were identified in the lens capsule of patients with diabetic cataract by mass spectrometry. Three new O-GlcNAc glycosylation sites were identified in this study. They were O-GlcNAcylation at T1730 position and S1738 position of PTPRQ and O-GlcNAcylation at T61 position of ATP5MC2.

CONCLUSION:O-GlcNAc glycosylation may be involved in the formation and development of diabetic cataract. The differential O-GlcNAc glycoprotein identified by mass spectrometry provided the data for further study about pathogenesis of diabetic cataract.

Abstract:AIM: To investigate the efficacy and safety of ZKY001 eye drops with different concentrations in the treatment of corneal epithelial defects(CED)after primary pterygium excision.

METHODS: This was a multicenter, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled phase II clinical trial. From March 15, 2022 to November 14, 2022, patients with primary pterygium who had undergone surgery were recruited from 12 tertiary hospitals across China. Using block randomization, 178 patients(178 eyes)were randomly assigned to 3 groups in a 1:1:1 ratio: 0.002% ZKY001 group(n=59), 0.004% ZKY001 group(n=59), and placebo group(n=60, receiving ZKY001 sham eye drops). Subjects in each group received 1 drop of the study drug 4 times per day for 4 d. The percentage of CED area recovery from baseline, the first complete healing time of CED area, the number of first complete healing cases of CED, and changes in visual analogue scale(VAS)scores for eye discomfort including eye pain, foreign body sensation, tearing and photophobia were observed.

RESULTS: In terms of improvement in CED, there were no statistically significant differences among the three groups including the first healing time of CED, the percentage improvement in CED area compared to baseline, and the percentage of first healing cases at different follow-up visits(all P>0.05). Numerically, the first healing time of CED was shorter in the test groups compared to the placebo group(67.87±21.688 h for the 0.002% ZKY001 group, 61.48±22.091 h for the 0.004% ZKY001 group, and 68.85±20.851 h for the placebo group). On D1 morning, the percentage improvement in CED area compared to baseline was maximally different from the placebo group, and the numerical difference advantage was maintained at subsequent follow-up visits. The number of first healing cases in the CED area at different follow-up visits was higher in the test groups than the placebo group. In terms of improvement in ocular discomfort, the total VAS scores were lower in the test groups compared to the placebo group, mainly due to reductions in foreign body sensation and pain scores. At D3, the 0.004% ZKY001 group showed statistically significant improvement in foreign body sensation(P<0.017). In terms of safety, the overall incidence of adverse events was low(9.0%)and similar among groups.

CONCLUSION: The use of ZKY001 eyedrops after primary pterygium surgery can safely improve the CED repair, and alleviate postoperative symptoms caused by CED.

Abstract:AIM: To investigate the performance of angiopoietin-like protein 4(ANGPTL4)and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α(HIF-1α)levels in the aqueous humor in predicting the occurrence of postoperative macular edema of patients with diabetic cataract.

METHODS: A total of 61 cases of diabetic cataract patients who underwent surgical treatment and developed macular edema in Jiaozhou Central Hospital of Qingdao from January 2021 to December 2023 were selected as study group, and 42 cases of patients who did not develop macular edema were collected as control group. According to the grading of macular edema, they were separated into 39 cases of grade I macular edema, 18 cases of grade II macular edema, and 4 cases of grade III macular edema. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA)was applied to determine the levels of ANGPTL4, HIF-1α, inflammatory factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF), interleukin-8(IL-8), and monocyte chemotactic protein-1(MCP-1)in aqueous humor. Optical coherence tomography was applied to measure the thickness of the macular fovea. Pearson method was applied to analyze the correlation of ANGPTL4 and HIF-1α in aqueous humor with inflammatory factors and foveal thickness in patients with diabetic cataract. Logistic regression was applied to analyze factors affecting the prediction of macular edema after surgery in diabetic cataract. Receiver operating curve(ROC)was applied to analyze the performance of ANGPTL4 and HIF-1α levels in aqueous humor on predicting postoperative macular edema.

RESULTS: The levels of ANGPTL4, HIF-1α, VEGF, IL-8, MCP-1 in the aqueous humor of the study group and the macular foveal thickness were obviously higher than those of the control group(all P<0.01). With the exacerbation of macular edema, the levels of ANGPTL4 and HIF-1α in aqueous humor obviously increased(all P<0.01). The levels of ANGPTL4 and HIF-1α in aqueous humor were positively correlated with VEGF, IL-8, MCP-1, and macular foveal thickness, respectively(all P<0.05). ANGPTL4, HIF-1α, VEGF and MCP-1 were risk factors for predicting macular edema after cataract surgery in diabetic cataract(all P<0.05). The AUC for predicting postoperative macular edema of ANGPTL4, HIF-1α, and their combination in aqueous humor was 0.883, 0.844, and 0.945, respectively, and the combined prediction was obviously higher than the levels of ANGPTL4 and HIF-1α predicted separately.

CONCLUSION: The levels of ANGPTL4 and HIF-1α in aqueous humor of diabetic cataract patients are obviously increased, the combination of the two can effectively predict the occurrence of postoperative macular edema, and clinical treatment can reduce the probability of postoperative macular edema by interfering with the levels of the two.

Abstract:AIM: To analyze the modeling characteristics and validation indexes of diabetic retinopathy model, analyze the shortcomings of the present animal experimental modeling, and provide a reference basis for the establishment of the standardization of the diabetic retinopathy model.

METHODS: Literatures related to animal experiments on diabetic retinopathy were searched through the databases of CNKI, Wanfang, VIP and PubMed, and the experimental animal species, grade, gender, age, modeling method, modeling period, validation indexes, and other indexes were summarized and analyzed.

RESULTS: The 275 papers that met the criteria were included. The animal models of diabetic retinopathy were mainly SD rats and Wistar rats, the sex of the experimental animals was mainly male, and the animal breeds were mostly of the SPF class. The age of most of the animals used was in the range of 6-8 weeks old; the modeling was based on those who established the type 1 diabetes model, mainly using STZ as the induction model. While the type 2 diabetes model was based on the high-fat, high-sugar diet combined with STZ. The modeling criteria were verified by detecting retinal morphology and structure, retinal vascularization, retinal function, and retinal cell apoptosis. In addition, the model was evaluated by detecting abnormal vascular proliferation, oxidative stress indicators, and inflammatory factor levels in retinal tissues, as well as abnormal vascular proliferation and inflammatory factor levels in aqueous humour, vitreous humor, and blood serum.

CONCLUSION: Although the animal model of diabetic retinopathy has become a hotspot, the existing review is not comprehensive. Therefore, we summarized and analyzed the elements of the animal model through literature collation, including its characteristics and limitations, and providing methodological references for the establishment of the model, with a view to laying a solid foundation for the subsequent clinical and basic research of traditional Chinese medicine.

Abstract:Members of the Sirtuin(SIRT)family are class III histone deacetylases(HDAC Ⅲ)homologous to yeast silencing information regulator 2(Sir2), which mediates histone and non-histone deacetylation in a NAD⁺-dependent manner. Diabetic cataract(DC)is one of the most important complications of diabetes, which can lead to visual impairment and blindness. With the in-depth study of the Sirt1 signaling pathway, it is found that this signaling pathway plays an important role in the occurrence and development of DC, and this article reviews the research progress of Sirt1 in DC by examining its impact on different pathogenesis.

Abstract:Retinitis pigmentosa(RP)is a degenerative blinding disease characterized by the loss of the function of photoreceptor and retinal pigment epithelium. The activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress is a cellular defense regulatory mechanism, aimed at restoring the stability of endoplasmic reticulum function by self-regulation through a series of molecular signaling pathways. Rhodopsin mutation is a common cause of RP. Misfolding and retention of rhodopsin in endoplasmic reticulum and apoptosis of photoreceptor cells and retinal pigment epithelial cells induced by endoplasmic reticulum stress can lead to the occurrence and development of RP. This paper discusses endoplasmic reticulum stress and its role in the pathogenesis of RP and the role of endoplasmic reticulum stress inhibitors, traditional Chinese medicine and chemical drugs in regulating endoplasmic reticulum stress in RP treatment was summarized, in order to provide theoretical basis for endoplasmic reticulum stress in the clinical application of RP and provide new ideas for the research, prevention and treatment of RP.

Abstract:Nitric oxide(NO)is an endothelial-derived relaxing factor produced by endothelial cells and catalyzed by nitric oxide synthase(NOS), which is present in many organs and tissues of the human body. NO is a key gaseous signaling molecule that mediates a variety of physiopathological processes in organisms. NO and NOS have many functions including the regulation of vascular tone, the relaxation of smooth muscle, activation of immune responses and modulation of neuro-transmission. They have been used in the treatment of diseases in a certain field. In recent years, the incidence of ophthalmic diseases has been on the rise, and the quality of life of patients has been reduced. However, treatment for most diseases is limited. It is find that NO and NOS can be detected in various tissue of ocular parts, and they are involved in the occurrence and transformation of many ocular surface and fundus diseases. This article reviews the correlation between them and ocular diseases, analyzes the mechanism and principle of the occurrence and development of diseases, and provides new ideas for the clinical treatment of ophthalmic diseases in the future.

Abstract:Phacoemulsification combined with intraocular lens(IOL)implantation is currently one of effective methods for treating cataracts. As cataract surgery technology has evolved, traditional cataract surgery has shifted from vision surgery to refractive surgery. The Toric IOL can significantly reduce corneal astigmatism and enhance patients' postoperative visual effects. However, the corrective impact of Toric IOL is influenced by numerous factors, including the accuracy of preoperative biometric measurements, selection of appropriate Toric IOL calculation formulas, the precision of implantation axis, surgical incision design, and rotational stability of the Toric IOL. This article will review the factors that influence the Toric IOL's effect on corneal astigmatism.

Abstract:Corneal refractive surgery, a widely adopted method for correcting refractive errors, has demonstrated its safety, efficacy, and predictability in extensive research. Studies indicate varying degrees of intraoperative fluctuations inintraocular pressure, potentially impacting the posterior segment structures and functions due to surgical techniques, equipment, technical proficiency, and patient-specific factors. Although short-term postoperative follow-up in most patients does not reveal visual dysfunction, the long-term effects and potential risks of transient high intraocular pressure during surgery on the posterior segment structures and functions remain unclear. Therefore, the assessment of posterior segment complications following corneal refractive surgery is of paramount importance in clinical practice. This review aims to explore the characteristics of intraocular pressure fluctuations during corneal refractive surgery and their effects on structures and functions of the vitreous, retina, and optic nerve in the posterior segment, analyze possible causes and risk factors, discuss their implications for current clinical treatment, and consider future trends, providing insights for clinical practice.

Abstract:Splicing factors(SFs)are a type of protein that serves as an integral component of the dynamic spliceosome complex. The spliceosome, similar to “scissors”, has the ability to accurately process precursor RNA(pre-mRNA)in eukaryotes and generate a diverse range of mRNA sequences. This process is important for gene regulation and protein expression. Pre-mRNA processing factor 31(PRPF31)is a widely expressed SFs in various biological tissues. However, mutations in PRPF31 are specifically linked to the development of autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa(adRP), known as PRPF31-RP. Currently, the pathogenesis of PRPF31-RP is still unclear. This article reviews the research progress on the molecular mechanism of PRPF31 in the development of adRP and the progress in PRPF31-RP treatment from the perspective of tissue damage and impairment of biological processes caused by PRPF31 mutation or deletion, in order to provide new ideas on the pathogenesis and treatment of PRPF31-RP.

Abstract:Stickler syndrome is a hereditary connective tissue disorder, characterized in ocular manifestations by high myopia and vitreous abnormalities. The progression of the disease can lead to giant retinal tear and rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, making it the most common cause of inherited pediatric retinal detachment. Surgical intervention is the primary treatment for retinal detachment associated with Stickler syndrome. However, there are currently no evidence-based management strategies. Patients typically require multiple surgeries, with low reattachment rates and high recurrence rates, emphasizing the importance of prophylactic treatment. Current prophylactic measures include scleral bucking, laser photocoagulation and retinal cryotherapy, but their absolute benefits remain insufficiently supported. This review summarizes recent advances in the prophylaxis and treatment of retinal detachment in Stickler syndrome, aiming to provide new insights and essential references for the prevention and treatment for such conditions.

Abstract:This article aims to comprehensively explore the progress of binocular vision function examination of intermittent exotropia(IXT)and its relationship with ametropia. As a common type of strabismus, IXT not only affects patients' visual experience and mental health, but also may develop into constant exotropia as they age. This article outlines the definition, prevalence, and clinical manifestations of IXT; introduces the examination methods of IXT, including strabismus angle examination, eye position control evaluation, and changes in accommodation and convergence functions. The article also explores the changes in stereopsis and other related examinations in IXT patients, providing a scientific basis for the comprehensive evaluation of IXT. In addition, the article deeply analyzes the relationship between IXT and ametropia, especially myopia, anisometropia, and hyperopia, pointing out the importance of refractive correction in improving binocular vision function and promoting the recovery of stereopsis. This article aims to provide references for clinical work and help doctors better understand the diagnosis and treatment of IXT.

Abstract:Herpes zoster ophthalmicus(HZO)is caused by the involvement of the ophthalmic division trigeminal nerve after reactivation of varicella-zoster virus(VZV)latent in the trigeminal ganglia, which usually occurs in the elderly and people with low immune function. The clinical manifestations of HZO are complex and diverse, which show not only keratoconjunctivitis and uveitis, but also retinal necrosis, optic neuropathy, and rare central nervous system lesions. Some cases do not have typical skin lesions, which can easily lead to missed diagnosis, misdiagnosis, and mistreatment, seriously affecting People's life quality. This article aimed to evaluate the clinical manifestations of HZO cases reported in the literature in recent years and comprehensively understand their diversity and complexity to better diagnose and treat the disease. This study also aimed to improve the diagnosis and cure rates of the disease, reduce the maximum number of visual damage, and provide more evidence for the precise diagnosis and treatment of HZO.

Abstract:AIM: To observe the changes of corneal densitometry(CD)in patients with keratoconus after corneal cross-linking(CXL).

METHODS: Retrospective study. A total of 32 patients(43 eyes)with keratoconus in Ningxia Eye Hospital from April 2020 to April 2022 were selected. Pentacam analysis system divided the cornea into three layers: anterior 120 μm, middle layer and posterior 60 μm, and divides it into five regions with diameters of 0-2, 2-6, 6-10, 10-12 mm and full diameter according to the diameter, and measures the CD in different ranges. The changes of CD were compared before operation and at 1, 3 and 6 mo after operation.

RESULTS: There were differences in uncorrected visual acuity, best corrected visual acuity and intraocular pressure before and 6 mo after operation(all P<0.05), and there was no difference in corneal endothelial cells(P=0.477). CD reached its peak at 1 mo after operation, and decreased at 3 mo and 6 mo after operation, but it was still higher than that before operation. There is a significant positive correlation between CD and Kmax in the anterior layer and the whole layer(r=0.164, P=0.016; r=0.152, P=0.023).

CONCLUSION: The values of CD peaked at 1 mo after CXL, then it gradually decreased, tending to become stable at 6 mo postoperatively.

Abstract:AIM: To compare the clinical efficacy of laser subepithelial keratomileusis(LASEK)in the treatment of myopia with normal corneal thickness and myopia with thin corneal thickness.

METHODS: This study was a prospective controlled study. Totally 55 patients(103 eyes)with myopia who underwent LASEK surgery in the 983rd Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese People's Liberation Army between June 2023 and February 2024 were selected. According to the central corneal thickness, there were 27 patients(50 eyes)of myopia with thin corneal thickness(460-499 μm)and 28 patients(53 eyes)of myopia with normal corneal thickness(500-550 μm). The patients were followed up before operation, and at 1 wk, 1, 2, 3 and 4 mo postoperatively. The uncorrected visual acuity(UCVA), best corrected visual acuity(BCVA), spherical equivalent(SE), residual corneal thickness, intraocular pressure(IOP), corneal irritation, and corneal haze were recorded, and the safety index and efficacy index were calculated. The measured indexes were analyzed statistically.

RESULTS: There were no significant differences in preoperative gender composition, age, SE, UCVA or BCVA between the two groups(all P>0.05). There were no significant differences in UCVA between the two groups of patients and the interaction(all P>0.05); the UCVA of the two groups were improved at every time after surgery(P<0.001). There were no significant differences in the safety index and efficacy index between the two groups after 4 mo(all P>0.05). There were no differences in SE interaction between the two groups of patients before and after surgery(P>0.05), as well as in the comparison of time(all P<0.05), the SE of the two groups were decreased significantly at every time after surgery, and there was a slight myopic drift at early postoperative stage in the thin corneal thickness myopia group. There were no differences in ΔIOP between the two groups of patients before and after surgery, as well as in the comparison of time and interaction(all P>0.05). There were no significant differences in corneal irritation and corneal haze between the two groups(all P>0.05). There was a positive correlation between the remaining postoperative corneal thickness and preoperative corneal thickness, preoperative SE, SE and IOP at 4 mo postoperatively(all P<0.05).

CONCLUSION: LASEK in the treatment of thin corneal myopia is as safe and effective as normal corneal thickness myopia.

Abstract:AIM:To investigate the differences in clinical features and therapeutic effects of the tea tree oil wipes combined with deep massages of the meibomian glands for different age groups of patients with demodex blepharitis.

METHODS:The clinical data of 146 patients(292 eyes)diagnosed with demodex blepharitis, hospitalized in Department of Ophthalmology, Xijing Hospital from January 2023 to October 2023, was collected in this retrospective study, and the patients were divided into group A(64 cases with 128 eyes)aged ≤45 years old and group B(82 cases with 164 eyes)aged >45 years old according to different ages. The differences in total numbers of binocular mites, Schirmer I tests, symptom and sign scores before, and at 1 and 3 mo after the treatment of the tea tree oil wipes combined with deep massages of the meibomian glands were analyzed between the two groups.

RESULTS: Before the treatments, the total number of the mites in the group A \〖7(6, 8)\〗 was lower than that in the group B \〖8(7, 9.25); P<0.05\〗. The dry eye score in the group A \〖6(6, 7)\〗 was lower than that in the group B \〖11(10, 12); P<0.001\〗, and the ocular surface irritation symptom score in the group A \〖10(9, 11)\〗 was higher than that in the group B \〖6(6, 7); P<0.001\〗. Both groups experienced a decrease in mite counts and improvement in symptoms and signs scores at 1 mo after treatment, and there was still a degree of improvement in all clinical indicators, with patients in the group B showing a further reduction in mite counts \〖-1(-3, 0)\〗 even after the treatment was continued for 3 mo.

CONCLUSION:The total numbers of mites in patients of older than 45 years old were higher than those in patients of ages younger than 45, and older patients have more serious dry eyes, with less serious symptoms of ocular surface irritation. The treatment can effectively reduce the number of mites in patients of different ages with demodex blepharitis, but the outcomes of Schirmer I tests do not change after the treatment. Longer treatment duration provide sustained clinical benefits.

Abstract:AIM: To investigate the expression levels and clinical significance of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α(HIF-1α)and interleukin-17(IL-17)in conjunctival epithelial cells and tear fluid of patients with dry eyes.

METHODS: Retrospective study. A total of 183 dry eye patients admitted to our hospital from February 2021 to March 2023 were selected, and 181 people who were physically healthy in our hospital during the same period were chosen as the control group. HIF-1α and IL-17 expression levels in conjunctival epithelial cells and tear fluid of the two groups of subjects were tested, and the diagnostic value of HIF-1α and IL-17 in conjunctival epithelial cells and tear fluid of the subjects in testing dry eyes was analyzed through receiver operating characteristics(ROC)curves.

RESULTS: Compared with the control group, patients in the dry eye group had elevated levels of HIF-1α and IL-17 expression in conjunctival epithelial cells(all P<0.01); and HIF-1α and IL-17 expression increased in tear fluid(all P<0.01). Pearson correlation analysis showed that HIF-1α and IL-17 in the conjunctival epithelium and tear fluid of dry eye patients were negatively correlated with BUT and Schirmer I test(SⅠt), and positively correlated with corneal fluorescein staining scores(all P<0.05); expression levels of HIF-1α and IL-17 in conjunctival epithelial cells and tear fluid of dry eye patients showed positive correlation(all P<0.001). The area under the ROC curve showed that the AUC for the combined diagnosis of HIF-1α and IL-17 in conjunctival epithelium was significantly greater than the AUC for HIF-1α alone in conjunctival epithelium(Z=5.574, P<0.001). The AUC of IL-17 alone in conjunctival epithelial cells(Z=4.351, P<0.001)and the AUC of the combined HIF-1α, IL-17 in tear fluid were significantly greater than the AUC of HIF-1α alone(Z=3.583, P<0.001)and the AUC of IL-17 alone(Z=4.303, P<0.001).

CONCLUSION: Conjunctival epithelial cells and tear fluid of dry eye patients have elevated expression levels of HIF-1α and IL-17, and joint detection of HIF-1α and IL-17 expression levels is of great value in the diagnosis of dry eye.

Abstract:AIM: To assess the association between the Dem, axial length/corneal radius ratio(AL/CR ratio), and the refractive status of children aged 3 to 14, compare the efficiency of Dem with AL/CR ratio in predicting myopia, and to explore a more effective method for quantitatively predicting the refractive state of children.

METHODS: This cross-sectional study involved 519 children aged 3 to 14, including 519 eyes(data from the right eyes were used). All participants were out-patients at the ophthalmic clinic of Xi'an No.1 Hospital from March 2021 to December 2022. The axial length(AL), keratometry(K), Dem, and spherical equivalent refraction(SER)were recorded before ciliary paralysis, and myopia was defined when the SER ≤-0.50 D.

RESULTS: There was a positive correlation between SER and Dem(r=0.88, P<0.01), and a negative correlation between SER and the AL/CR ratio(r=-0.87, P<0.01)in children aged 3-14. The optimal cutoff points for the Dem and AL/CR ratio were 20.40 D, and 3.02, respectively. Myopia could be diagnosed when the Dem ≤20.40 D or the AL/CR ratio ≥3.02. SER decreased by 0.57 D for every 1 D decrease in Dem and by 1.00 D for every 0.06 increase in the AL/CR ratio. The area under the ROC curve(AUC)for Dem(0.958)was significantly greater than that for the AL/CR ratio(0.940).

CONCLUSION: There is a positive correlation between SER and Dem, and a negative correlation between SER and the AL/CR ratio in children aged 3-14. Dem is more efficient than the AL/CR ratio in myopia assessment. The eye biometrics directly provide Dem values, which is more convenient for calculating the dose-effect relationship with SER, thus making it more efficient for predicting SER in children.

Abstract:AIM:To compare the effects of 0.01% with 0.05% atropine eye drops on pupil diameter(PD)and intraocular pressure(IOP)in myopic children.

METHODS: Prospective non-randomized controlled study. A total of 232 myopic children who treated at the Department of Ophthalmology, the Second People's Hospital of Puyang from March 2021 to February 2022 were included. They were divided into 0.01% atropine eye drops group(81 cases), 0.05% atropine eye drops group(77 cases), and control group(74 cases)according to patients' will, respectively. The control group received placebo eye drops(isotonic excipient). The PD and IOP of the three groups of patients were measured before medication and at 6 and 12 mo after medication.

RESULTS: Finally, 181 cases(181 eyes)(with all right eye data included in the study)completed a 1-year follow-up, with a loss to follow-up rate of 22.0%(51/232). Among them, 62 cases(62 eyes)belonged to the 0.01% atropine eye drops group, 54 cases(54 eyes)belonged to the 0.05% atropine eye drops group, and 65 cases(65 eyes)belonged to the control group. There was no significant difference in baseline PD and IOP among the three groups(all P<0.05). After 12 mo of medication, the changes in PD among the 0.01% atropine eye drops group, 0.05% atropine eye drops group, and control group were 0.79±0.70, 1.29±0.66, and 0.06±0.74 mm, respectively(P<0.001). The change in PD in the 0.05% atropine eye drops group was significantly greater than that in both the 0.01% atropine eye drops group and the control group. Similarly, the change in PD in the 0.01% atropine eye drops group was significantly greater than that in the control group(all P<0.05). After 12 mo of medication, the changes in IOP among the 0.01% atropine eye drops group, 0.05% atropine eye drops group, and control group were -0.70±1.94, -0.22±1.79, and 0.25±2.03 mmHg, respectively(P<0.05). The changes in IOP in the 0.05% atropine eye drops group showed statistically significant difference compared to both the 0.01% atropine eye drops group and the control group(all P>0.05), and the changes in IOP in the 0.01% atropine eye drops group were statistically significant compared to the control group(P<0.05). Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that baseline refractive error and baseline PD were significant factors influencing the change in PD among children treated with atropine eye drops(β=0.230, 95%CI: 0.005-0.455, SE=0.114, t=2.025, P=0.045; β=-0.562, 95%CI: -0.729--0.396, SE=0.084, t=6.697, P<0.001). Additionally, baseline IOP was significant factor influencing the change in IOP among children in the atropine eye drop groups(β=-0.285, 95%CI: -0.439--0.131, SE=0.078, t=3.662, P<0.001).

CONCLUSION: The PD of myopic children increased after using 0.01% and 0.05% atropine eye drops, and the change in PD after using 0.05% atropine eye drops was significantly greater than that of 0.01% atropine eye drops. No risk was found in the use of 0.01% and 0.05% atropine eye drops and elevated IOP.

Abstract:AIM: To analyze and compare the efficacy of binocular visual perception training and suspended vision trainer in postoperative rehabilitation of strabismus.

METHODS: A total of 96 children who received surgical treatment from July 2022 to September 2023 were included in the study subjects, and they were group A(n=32), group B(n=32)and group C(n=32). After operation, binocular visual training, visual perception training and suspension vision trainer were used to compare the efficacy among groups.

RESULTS: The changes of simultaneous visual function, fusion visual function, stereoscopic visual function, perceptual eye position(horizontal and vertical)and CIXTQ of the three groups of children were observed before training and at 3 mo after training, and the study found that the simultaneous visual function recovered differently at 3 mo after training, with the best recovery in the group B(all P<0.05); there were no significant differences in fusion visual function of the groups A and B(P>0.05), but there were statistical significance in fusion visual function among the three groups(all P<0.05); and there were no significant differences in recovery rate of stereoscopic visual function among the three groups(P>0.05). The improvement of perceptual eye position of the group B, either horizontally or vertically, was better than that of both the group A and group C(all P<0.05).

CONCLUSION: Visual perception training has a higher value in the simultaneous visual function, fusion function, stereoscopic visual function, perceptual eye position and quality of life in children with strabismus.

Abstract:AIM: To understand the visual acuity and spectacle usage among primary and secondary school students in Xi'an city, providing scientific evidence for making myopia prevention and control efforts.

METHODS:Vision screening and spectacles usage survey was conducted on 38 226 students in 119 primary and secondary schools from 16 counties and districts in Xi'an city, and uncorrected visual acuity, refractive power, glasses wearing rate, full correction rate were statistically analyzed.

RESULTS:The myopia rate among primary and secondary school students in Xi'an city is 61.53%, showing an increasing trend as the grade level goes up(χ²_trend=5332.203, P<0.01). Among them, the proportion of mild myopia decreases with the increase of grade level, while the proportion of moderate and high myopia shows an upward trend with the increase of grade level(χ²_trend=2671.562, P<0.01). The glasses wearing rate among myopic students is 51.69%, showing an upward trend as the grade level goes up(χ²_trend=1486.941, P<0.01). The spectacle prescription rate for female students is higher than that for male students(χ²=23.659, P<0.01), and the rate in urban areas is higher than that in suburban counties(χ²=102.241, P<0.01). The full correction rate among students wearing glasses is 67.08%, and the rate for students wearing glasses in urban areas is higher than that in suburban counties(χ²=4.980, P<0.05). Among myopic students, 63.66% had undergone visual acuity checks more than or equal to twice in the past year, with vocational high school students having the lowest frequency of twice vision screenings, accounting for 58.06%. There is a negative correlation between myopic students residing in suburban counties and their glasses wearing rate, while a higher grade level and increased frequency of annual vision checks are positively correlated with the glasses wearing rate among myopic students(all P<0.01).

CONCLUSION:The situation of students' myopia prevention and control is severe in Xi'an city, with low rates of spectacles usage, full correction, and frequency of visual checks. Special attention needs to be paid to the vision correction status of students in suburban counties, primary schools, and vocational high schools.

Abstract:AIM:To observe the clinical effect of ciliary sulcus suture fixation of intraocular lens(IOL)with the scleral tunnel technique.

METHODS: The clinical data of 36 patients(38 eyes)who underwent ciliary sulcus suture fixation of IOL with the scleral tunnel technique in our hospital from May 2021 to September 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were followed up for a total of 3-26 mo. The postoperative IOL position, visual acuity, refraction, intraocular pressure and complications were observed, and the results of tear film break-up time(BUT), corneal fluorescein staining(FL)and Schirmer Ⅰ test(SⅠt )were evaluated.

RESULTS: The uncorrected visual acuity and best corrected visual acuity of all eyes were improved at 3 mo after surgery(all P<0.01). The differences of BUT and FL score before operation, and at 1 and 3 mo after operation were statistically significant(all P<0.05). Postoperative slit lamp examination showed the IOL of all eyes remained well positioned, and no suture erosion was observed.

CONCLUSION: Ciliary sulcus suture fixation of IOL with the scleral tunnel technique is a safe, efficient, and minimally invasive procedure.

Abstract:AIM: To determine the patient-related risk factors for pain during phacoemulsification.

METHODS: Retrospective case-control study. A total of 62 patients(62 eyes)diagnosed as cataract in the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from December 2023 to January 2024 were included. The numeric rating scale was used to assess the pain level within 5 min postoperatively. The highest pain value was used as the primary outcome during the procedure. Based on pain values, patients were divided into pain group(n=25)and pain-free group(n=37). Subsequently, patients in the pain group were further divided into mild(n=16), moderate(n=7), and severe groups(n=2). Spearman correlation and Logistic regression analysis were conducted to determine risk factors for pain during the phacoemulsification.

RESULTS: Binary Logistic regression showed preoperative sleep durations and times of operations were important risk factors for intraoperative pain(all P<0.05). Spearman analysis showed that intraoperative pain was negatively correlated with sleep duration(r_s=-0.386, P=0.002), and positively correlated with times of operations(r_s=0.421, P<0.001). The results of the ordinal Logistic regression analysis showed that for every additional hour of sleep, the likelihood of experiencing one higher level of intraoperative pain decreased by 37.60%(OR=0.376, P=0.014). In contrast, the times of operations did not show a statistically significant difference(P=0.083). Receiver operating characteristic curve showed a joint prediction model of sleep duration and operative times with an area under the curve of 0.809, 84% sensitivity, and 73% specificity.

CONCLUSION: The intraoperative pain during phacoemulsification is negatively correlated with sleep duration and positively correlated with times of operations.

Abstract:AIM: To study the effect of intense pulsed light(IPL)combined with meibomian gland massage on postoperative dry eye in cataract patients with meibomian gland dysfunction(MGD).

METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the general data of 100 patients(100 eyes)with cataract and postoperative dry eye syndrome accompanied by MGD treated in our hospital from June 2022 to June 2023. They were divided into a control group(n=50)and an observation group(n=50)according to different treatment methods, and received meibomian gland massage and meibomian gland massage combined with IPL treatment, respectively. The tear film break-up time(BUT), Schirmer I test(S I t), meibomian gland secretion score, ocular surface disease index(OSDI), ocular staining score(OSS), and treatment efficacy of the two groups of patients were compared before treatment and at 1 wk and 1 and 3 mo after treatment.

RESULTS: The BUT and SIt in both groups after treatment were higher than those before treatment, while the secretion of meibomian gland, OSS score, and OSDI score were lower than those before treatment(all P<0.05); the observation group had higher levels of BUT and SIT at 1 wk, 1 and 3 mo compared to the control group(all P<0.05), and lower levels of meibomian gland secretion, OSS score, and OSDI score compared to the control group(all P<0.05); the effective rate of treatment in the observation group was 86.0%, which was higher than that in the control group(68.0%; P<0.05).

CONCLUSION: IPL combined with meibomian gland massage for treating postoperative dry eye in cataract patients with MGD can promote the extension of BUT, increase tear secretion, and reduce OSS and OSDI scores.

Abstract:AIM:To analyze the effectiveness and safety of upper eyelid combined fascia sheath(CFS)suspension and levator muscle(LM)shortening surgery in correcting severe ptosis.

METHODS:Retrospective study. A total of 80 cases(84 eyes)of severe ptosis treated in our hospital from June 2018 to June 2022 were divided into two groups based on the surgical method, including 40 cases(41 eyes)underwent CFS suspension + LM shortening surgery in CFS group, and 40 patients(43 eyes)underwent frontal muscle flap suspension surgery in frontal muscle group; the clinical total effective rate, postoperative complications, and patient satisfaction rate of both groups of patients were compared.

RESULTS:At 12 mo postoperatively, the clinical effective rates of the two groups of patients were 98% and 91%, respectively(P>0.05). The incidence of complications was 26%(11/43)in the frontal muscle group and 7%(3/41)in the CFS group(P=0.024). The satisfaction rate of the frontal muscle group was 80%(32/40), while the CFS group was 98%(39/40; P=0.029).

CONCLUSION:The use of CFS+LM surgery can effectively correct severe ptosis, with fewer complications and a more natural appearance.

Abstract:AIM: To investigate the pathogenic bacteria, drug resistance, therapy and prognosis of infectious endophthalmitis secondary to different ophthalmic surgeries.

METHODS:A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 37 patients(37 eyes)with infectious endophthalmitis secondary to different ophthalmic surgeries. All these patients were treated in the Ophthalmology Department of Hebei General Hospital between January 2009 and June 2023. The pathogenic bacteria, drug resistance and therapeutic effects of early intravitreal injection of antibiotics or vitrectomy combined with silicone oil filling were analyzed.

RESULTS:There were 24 eyes following cataract phacoemulsification combined with intraocular lens implantation, 4 eyes following vitrectomy, 2 eyes following combination surgery for glaucoma and cataract, 2 eyes following anti-glaucoma surgery, 2 eyes following corneal transplantation, 2 eyes following anterior chamber puncture, and 1 eye following intravitreal injection among the 37 eyes with infectious endophthalmitis. Totally 37 samples of intraocular fluid were submitted for bacterial and fungal culture, and 20 strains of pathogenic bacteria were identified, including 17 Gram-positive bacteria, 2 Gram-negative bacteria, 1 fusarium, and 12 cases were staphylococcus epidermidis. According to the final therapy, 7 eyes only treated by intravitreal injection, 11 eyes treated by intravitreal injection and vitrectomy, and 19 eyes only treated by vitrectomy. At the last follow-up, the best corrected visual acuity(BCVA)was ≤0.05 in 15 eyes, 0.06-0.3 in 15 eyes, and 0.4-1.0 in 7 eyes. Compared to before treatment(no light perception - hand movement in 31 eyes, counting fingers -0.05 in 3 eyes, 0.06-0.3 in 3 eyes), the difference was statistically significant(P<0.001).

CONCLUSION: For infectious endophthalmitis patients with relatively mild ocular manifestation and good initial visual acuity, intravitreal injection of antibiotics remains an economically viable and effective therapy option. Early vitrectomy may effectively prevent the progression of infectious endophthalmitis, reduce the number of surgeries, and significantly improve the vision outcomes.