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Search Results (174)

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15 pages, 283 KB  
Article
Global View of Ocular Parameter Changes Induced by a Single Hemodialysis Session
by Joanna Roskal-Wałek, Joanna Gołębiewska, Jerzy Mackiewicz, Kamila Bołtuć-Dziugieł, Agnieszka Bociek, Paweł Wałek, Dominik Odrobina and Andrzej Jaroszyński
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 592; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020592 - 12 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Hemodialysis (HD) is the commonest life sustaining form of kidney replacement therapy in the world; however, this method of treatment have many adverse effects, and even a single HD session affects many organs, including the eyes. The aim of this study was [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Hemodialysis (HD) is the commonest life sustaining form of kidney replacement therapy in the world; however, this method of treatment have many adverse effects, and even a single HD session affects many organs, including the eyes. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a single HD session on the ophthalmologic findings in patients with End-stage Renal Disease (ESRD). The second aim of the study was to examine the correlation of these changes with each other and between changes in systemic stressors related to the HD session. Methods: This was a single-center cross-sectional observational study conducted on 32 patients undergoing HD. Selected parameters of the anterior and posterior segment of the eye as well as systemic parameters were assessed before and after a single HD session. Results: Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved, and lens thickness (LT), axial length (AXL), average macular thickness (MT), central MT and total vessel density (VD) of the deep capillary plexus DCP increased significantly after a single HD session. The Schirmer test results, tear break up time (TBUT), anterior chamber depth (ACD), central and average choroidal thickness (CT) decreased significantly after HD. Body weight loss was the only significant systemic change. Decrease in TBUT correlated positively with Schirmer’s test results decrease. Increase in CCT correlated positively with AXL increase. Decrease in central and average CT correlated positively with IOP decrease. Increase in central MT correlated positively with increase in average MT. Decrease in central CT correlated positively with average CT decrease. Change in VD of the SCP correlated positively with change in VD of DCP. Apart from the positive correlation between SBP change and Schirmer’s test results change, there were no correlations between systemic and ophthalmic parameters changes. Conclusions: Our study showed that HD affected the parameters of the anterior and posterior segments of the eye. Numerous correlations between these changes suggest that they are interrelated and represent the complex response of the eye to the HD process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Updates and Advances in Hemodialysis)
14 pages, 5439 KB  
Brief Report
Emergence and Phylodynamics of Influenza D Virus in Northeast China Reveal Sporadic Detection and Predominance of the D/Yamagata/2019 Lineage in Cattle
by Hongjin Li, Weiwen Yan, Xinxin Liu, Bing Gao, Jiahuizi Peng, Feng Jiang, Qixun Cui, Che Song, Xianyuan Kong, Hongli Li, Tobias Stoeger, Abdul Wajid, Aleksandar Dodovski, Chao Gao, Maria Inge Lusida, Claro N. Mingala, Dmitry B. Andreychuk and Renfu Yin
Viruses 2026, 18(1), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/v18010093 - 9 Jan 2026
Viewed by 147
Abstract
Influenza D virus (IDV), an emerging orthomyxovirus with zoonotic potential, infects diverse hosts, causes respiratory disease, and remains poorly characterized in China despite its global expansion. From October 2023 to January 2025, we collected 563 nasal swabs from cattle across 28 farms in [...] Read more.
Influenza D virus (IDV), an emerging orthomyxovirus with zoonotic potential, infects diverse hosts, causes respiratory disease, and remains poorly characterized in China despite its global expansion. From October 2023 to January 2025, we collected 563 nasal swabs from cattle across 28 farms in Jilin Province, Northeast China, and identified seven IDV-positive samples (1.2%), recovering two viable isolates (JL/YB2024 and JL/CC2024). Full-genome sequencing revealed complete, stable seven-segment genomes with high nucleotide identity (up to 99.9%) to contemporary Chinese D/Yamagata/2019 strains and no evidence of reassortment. Maximum-likelihood and time-resolved Bayesian phylogenies of 231 global hemagglutinin-esterase-fusion (HEF) sequences placed the Jilin isolates within the East Asian D/Yamagata/2019 clade and traced their most recent common ancestor to approximately 2017 (95% highest posterior density: 2016–2018), suggesting a cross-border introduction likely associated with regional cattle movement. No IDV was detected in parallel surveillance of swine, underscoring cattle as the principal reservoir and amplifying host. Bayesian skyline analysis demonstrated a marked decline in global IDV genetic diversity during 2020–2022, coinciding with livestock-movement restrictions imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Collectively, these findings indicate that IDV circulation in China is sporadic and geographically localized, dominated by the D/Yamagata/2019 lineage, and shaped by multiple independent incursions rather than a single emergence. Both the incorporation of IDV diagnostics into routine bovine respiratory disease surveillance and cattle-import quarantine programs, and the adoption of a One Health framework to monitor potential human spillover and future viral evolution, were recommend. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging and Re-Emerging Viral Zoonoses)
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22 pages, 484 KB  
Systematic Review
Early Detection of Keratoconus: Diagnostic Advances and Their Impact on Visual Outcomes: A Systematic Review
by Evangelos Magklaras, Konstantinia Karamitsou, Vasilios F. Diakonis, Theodoros Mprotsis and Konstantinos T. Tsaousis
Medicina 2026, 62(1), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62010042 - 25 Dec 2025
Viewed by 421
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Keratoconus is a progressive corneal ectatic disorder and a leading cause of corneal transplantation in developed countries. Early detection is critical for initiating timely interventions such as corneal cross-linking, which can halt disease progression and preserve long-term visual function. [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Keratoconus is a progressive corneal ectatic disorder and a leading cause of corneal transplantation in developed countries. Early detection is critical for initiating timely interventions such as corneal cross-linking, which can halt disease progression and preserve long-term visual function. This review aims to synthesize current diagnostic approaches for early keratoconus detection and assess their clinical impact on visual outcomes. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus and the Cochrane Library through September 2025. Search terms included “early keratoconus,” “subclinical keratoconus,” “forme fruste keratoconus,” “keratoconus detection,” “corneal topography,” “corneal tomography,” “anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT),” “corneal biomechanics,” “artificial intelligence,” “genetic risk, “environmental factors”, and “machine learning.” Two independent reviewers analyzed the data. Studies were included if they investigated diagnostic modalities for early-stage keratoconus and discussed their relevance to visual outcomes. Results: One hundred and seven studies were included in the final review. Four diagnostic modalities demonstrated consistent clinical value: 1. corneal topography for assessing anterior surface irregularities; 2. corneal tomography, currently regarded as the gold standard due to its ability to detect early posterior elevation and pachymetric changes; 3. AS-OCT for epithelial and stromal profiling; and 4. biomechanical assessments, which evaluate corneal tissue stability prior to structural alterations. Artificial intelligence, when integrated with imaging data, enhances diagnostic sensitivity and standardizes interpretation across clinical settings. Conclusions: Early keratoconus detection is crucial for preserving vision; and integrating multimodal, AI-supported diagnostics into routine care—especially for high-risk groups—enhances accuracy, improves outcomes, and reduces progression rates of disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ophthalmology)
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19 pages, 2747 KB  
Article
Evaluating a Multi-Modal Large Language Model for Ophthalmology Triage
by Caius Goh, Jabez Ng, Wei Yung Au, Clarence See, Alva Lim, Jun Wen Zheng, Xiuyi Fan and Kelvin Li
J. Clin. Transl. Ophthalmol. 2025, 3(4), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcto3040025 - 30 Nov 2025
Viewed by 715
Abstract
Background/Purpose: Ophthalmic triage is challenging for non-specialists due to limited training and rising global eye disease burden. This study evaluates a multimodal framework integrating clinical text and ophthalmic imaging with large language models (LLMs). Textual consistency filtering and chain-of-thought (CoT) reasoning were incorporated [...] Read more.
Background/Purpose: Ophthalmic triage is challenging for non-specialists due to limited training and rising global eye disease burden. This study evaluates a multimodal framework integrating clinical text and ophthalmic imaging with large language models (LLMs). Textual consistency filtering and chain-of-thought (CoT) reasoning were incorporated to improve diagnostic accuracy. Methods: A dataset of 56 ophthalmology cases from a Singapore restructured hospital was pre-processed with acronym expansion, sentence reconstruction, and textual consistency filtering. To address dataset size limitations, 100 synthetic cases were generated via one-shot GPT-4 prompting, validated by semantic checks and ophthalmologist review. Three diagnostic approaches were tested: Text-Only, Image-Assisted, and Image with CoT. Diagnostic performance was quantified using a novel SNOMED-CT-based dissimilarity score, defined as the shortest path distance between predicted and reference diagnoses in the ontology, which was used to quantify semantic alignment. Results: The synthetic dataset included anterior segment (n = 40), posterior segment (n = 35), and extraocular (n = 25) cases. The text-only approach yielded a mean dissimilarity of 6.353 (95% CI: 4.668, 8.038). Incorporation of image assistance reduced this to 5.234 (95% CI: 3.930, 6.540), while CoT prompting provided further gains when imaging cues were ambiguous. Conclusions: The multimodal pipeline showed potential in improving diagnostic alignment in ophthalmology triage. Image inputs enhanced accuracy, and CoT reasoning reduced errors from ambiguous features, supporting its feasibility as a pilot framework for ophthalmology triage. Full article
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19 pages, 2952 KB  
Article
Biomechanical Analysis and Mid-Term Clinical Outcomes of the Dynamic-Transitional Optima Hybrid Lumbar Device
by Shih-Hao Chen, Shang-Chih Lin, Chi-Ruei Li, Zheng-Cheng Zhong, Chih-Ming Kao, Mao-Shih Lin and Hsi-Kai Tsou
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(22), 8087; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14228087 - 14 Nov 2025
Viewed by 524
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Spinal fusion with static fixation—surgically joining two or more vertebrae to eliminate motion—is commonly employed to treat degenerative spinal disease. However, the rigidity imposed by static constructs and the increased load on the adjacent segments frequently result in complications such as [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Spinal fusion with static fixation—surgically joining two or more vertebrae to eliminate motion—is commonly employed to treat degenerative spinal disease. However, the rigidity imposed by static constructs and the increased load on the adjacent segments frequently result in complications such as disc or facet degeneration, spinal stenosis (SS), and segmental instability. This study investigates the effectiveness of pedicle-based dynamic stabilization using the Dynesys system, particularly in a dynamic-transitional optima (DTO) hybrid configuration, in mitigating adjacent segment disease (ASD) and improving clinical outcomes. In this work, we analyzed the mechanical performance and intermediate-term clinical effects of the DTO hybrid lumbar device, focusing on how the load-sharing properties of the Dynesys cord–spacer stabilizers may contribute to junctional complications in individuals with diverse grades of intervertebral disc degeneration. Study Design/Setting: We designed a combined biomechanical finite element (FE) and experimental analysis to predict the clinical outcomes. Patient Sample: Among 115 patients with lumbar SS enrolled for analysis, 31 patients (mean age: 68.5 ± 7.5 years), with or without grade I spondylolisthesis (18/13), underwent a two-level DTO hybrid procedure—L4–L5 static fixation and L3–L4 dynamic stabilization—with minimal decompression to preserve the posterior tension band. Post-surgical follow-ups were conducted for over 48 months (range: 49–82). Outcome Measures: Radiological assessments were performed by two neurosurgeons, one orthopedic surgeon, and one neuroradiologist. The posterior disc height, listhesis distance, and dynamic angular changes were measured pre- and postoperatively to evaluate ASD progression. Methods: Dynamic instrumentation was assigned to the L3–L4 motion segment with lesser disc deterioration, in contrast to the L4–L5 segment, where static fixation was applied due to its greater degree of degeneration. FE analysis was performed under displacement-controlled conditions. Intersegmental motion analysis was conducted under load-controlled conditions in a synthetic model. Results: The DTO hybrid devices reduced stress and motion at the transition segment. However, compensatory biomechanical effects were more pronounced at the adjacent cephalad than the caudal segments. In the biomechanical trade-off zone—where balance between motion preservation and stabilization is critical—the flexible Dynesys cord significantly mitigated stiffness-related issues during flexion. At the L3–L4 transition level, the cord–spacer configuration enhanced dynamic function, increasing motion by 2.7% (rotation) and 12.7% (flexion), reducing disc stress by 4.1% (flexion) and 12.9% (extension), and decreasing the facet contact forces by 4.9% (rotation) and 15.6% (extension). The optimal cord stiffness (50–200 N/mm) aligned with the demands of mild disc degeneration, whereas stiffer cords were more effective for segments with higher degeneration. The pedicle screw motion in dynamic Dynesys systems—primarily caused by axial translation rather than vertical displacement—contributed to screw–vertebra interface stress, influenced by the underlying disc or bone degeneration. Conclusions: Modulating the cord pretension in DTO instrumentation effectively lessened the interface stress occurring at the screw–vertebra junction and adjacent facet joints, contributing to a reduced incidence of pedicle screw loosening, ASD, and revision rates. The modified DTO system, incorporating minimal decompression and preserving the posterior complex at the dynamic level, may be biomechanically favourable and clinically effective for managing transitional degeneration over the mid-term. Full article
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13 pages, 11628 KB  
Article
Unilateral Posterior Stabilization in Adult Spinal Pathologies: Comparative Clinical, Radiological, and Complication Outcomes of Dynamic Versus Rigid Systems
by Uzay Erdogan, Ege Anil Ucar, Feride Bulgur Balay, Gurkan Berikol, Ibrahim Taha Albas, Mehmet Yigit Akgun, Tunc Oktenoglu, Ali Fahir Ozer and Ozkan Ates
Medicina 2025, 61(11), 1958; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61111958 - 31 Oct 2025
Viewed by 474
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Unilateral spinal stabilization has emerged as a less invasive alternative to bilateral fixation in the management of lateralized spinal pathologies. While both rigid and dynamic systems are utilized, comparative data regarding their clinical efficacy, radiological outcomes, and complication profiles—particularly [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Unilateral spinal stabilization has emerged as a less invasive alternative to bilateral fixation in the management of lateralized spinal pathologies. While both rigid and dynamic systems are utilized, comparative data regarding their clinical efficacy, radiological outcomes, and complication profiles—particularly in multilevel applications—remain limited. Materials and Methods: A retrospective, two-center analysis was conducted on 113 patients who underwent unilateral posterior spinal stabilization between 2019 and 2023. Patients were divided into unilateral rigid stabilization (URS, n = 41) and unilateral dynamic stabilization (UDS, n = 72) groups. Pathologies of the patients include disc herniations, foraminal and spinal stenosis, tumoral lesions and spondylolisthesis. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) over a 24-month follow-up. Radiological parameters included fusion status, superior adjacent disc height, and foraminal height index. Complication rates, including adjacent segment degeneration (ASD), pseudoarthrosis, and screw loosening, were analyzed according to type-of-stabilization and construct length (two, three, or four levels). Results: Both URS and UDS groups demonstrated significant VAS improvement at final follow-up, with no significant differences between groups (p < 0.001). Fusion rates were significantly higher in the URS group (85.37% vs. 27.78%, p < 0.001), while pseudoarthrosis (39.02% vs. 16.62%, p = 0.081) were more frequent in URS. No cases of rod fracture or infection were observed. Complication rates, particularly ASD, increased with longer constructs (6.56%, 21.21%, vs. 31.58% p = 0.01), independent of stabilization type. Conclusions: Unilateral stabilization—whether rigid or dynamic—offers effective symptom relief with reduced surgical morbidity. However, dynamic systems may provide biomechanical advantages by preserving motion and minimizing adjacent segment stress. While rigid constructs yield higher fusion rates, they are associated with increased complications. These findings support the use of dynamic stabilization, particularly in multilevel constructs, and highlight the need for patient-specific surgical strategies to optimize outcomes and mitigate long-term complications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Spine Surgery and Spine Disorders)
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23 pages, 1972 KB  
Review
Detecting Alzheimer’s Disease Using Ocular Tissue and Imaging: What Do We Know?
by Minali Prasad and Manju L. Subramanian
Biomolecules 2025, 15(11), 1519; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom15111519 - 28 Oct 2025
Viewed by 1041
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition with increasing global prevalence. As early diagnosis becomes critical for timely symptomatic management, noninvasive and easily accessible biomarkers are needed. Given the shared embryologic origins between the eye and the brain, ocular imaging has emerged [...] Read more.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition with increasing global prevalence. As early diagnosis becomes critical for timely symptomatic management, noninvasive and easily accessible biomarkers are needed. Given the shared embryologic origins between the eye and the brain, ocular imaging has emerged as a promising diagnostic technique. This review summarizes the associations between AD, ocular imaging and fluid biomarkers in the anterior and posterior segment. We also describe the underlying pathophysiology that explains the connections between each ocular structure and the brain in the context of AD. Optical coherence tomography (OCT), OCT angiography, and fundus photography are the most common imaging modalities utilized in AD research. However, these techniques may or may not be feasible in primary care or neurologic clinical settings. Compared to plasma biomarker analysis, which is minimally invasive and nearing clinical implementation, ocular biomarkers remain primarily valuable in research investigations. Full article
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13 pages, 5261 KB  
Article
Atypical Presentations and Molecular Diagnosis of Ocular Bartonellosis
by Munirah Alafaleq and Christine Fardeau
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(21), 10421; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262110421 - 27 Oct 2025
Viewed by 654
Abstract
To describe unusual findings and management of neuroretinitis in patients with cat scratch disease (CSD), their functional outcome after a case-oriented treatment was anaylsed, and the current literature was reviewed. A retrospective monocentric case series and a literature review. Review of medical records, [...] Read more.
To describe unusual findings and management of neuroretinitis in patients with cat scratch disease (CSD), their functional outcome after a case-oriented treatment was anaylsed, and the current literature was reviewed. A retrospective monocentric case series and a literature review. Review of medical records, multimodal imaging, and literature review. Five patients (four females and one male) with a mean age of 29.75 years (range: 11–71 years) had unusual findings of ocular bartonellosis, including inner retinitis, focal choroiditis, retinal microaneurysms, and bilateral sectorial optic nerve swelling. Bartonella-related ocular infections were not limited to the posterior segment of the eye. Molecular tests, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), showed that elevated markers of IgG titers were used and were positive in the aqueous humour of one patient. Reference to the use of intravitreal treatment in one of the cases was useful. Case-oriented management is associated with improvement in visual acuity, retinal, and choroidal lesions. The range of ocular signs of Bartonella infection could be extended. Molecular tests, such as PCR, are useful diagnostic approaches in the diagnosis of posterior uveitis. Treatment could require intravitreal antibiotic injections in unusual ocular bartonellosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Research in Ocular Inflammation and Infection)
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14 pages, 1506 KB  
Article
Sagittal Alignment Correction in Single-Level Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Interbody Fusion with Unilateral vs. Bilateral Facetectomy
by Sergej Telentschak, Eva Fruechtl, Moritz Perrech, Moritz Lenschow, Niklas von Spreckelsen, Dierk-Marko Czybulka, Roland Goldbrunner and Volker Neuschmelting
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(21), 7595; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14217595 - 26 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 483
Abstract
Objective: Bilateral facetectomy (BF) within minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MI-TLIF) remains debated regarding its advantages over unilateral facetectomy (UF) in restoring segmental lordosis, addressing spondylolisthesis and decompressing both neural foramina. The evidence is limited. We sought to determine the benefits of [...] Read more.
Objective: Bilateral facetectomy (BF) within minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MI-TLIF) remains debated regarding its advantages over unilateral facetectomy (UF) in restoring segmental lordosis, addressing spondylolisthesis and decompressing both neural foramina. The evidence is limited. We sought to determine the benefits of contralateral facetectomy on radiographic and clinical outcomes. Methods: We conducted a single-center retrospective analysis on patients with lumbar degenerative disease who underwent single-level percutaneous instrumentation and MI-TLIF with either UF or BF. Plain radiographs, CT and MRI were utilized for comparative radiographic analysis. Various intraoperative and clinical parameters were evaluated to assess surgical effort and clinical outcomes. Results: We included 81 UF and 23 BF cases; complete radiological data were available for 27 and 13 patients, respectively. Both techniques demonstrated a comparable increase in segmental lordosis (UF 2.1° ± 5.3° vs. BF 4.3° ± 5.4°, p > 0.1), which is below the study’s minimum detectable effect (MDE ≈ 5.1° at 80% power). Spondylolisthesis reduction was similar, with UF achieving a mean of 2.8 ± 2.2 mm and BF 2.4 ± 1.9 mm (p > 0.1). Mean posterior disc height did not differ significantly between groups (p > 0.1). The mean intraoperative blood loss was significantly higher with BF (803 ± 347 mL) compared to UF (437 ± 207 mL, p < 0.001). The mean duration of surgery was significantly longer for BF (240 ± 48 min) compared to UF (197 ± 37 min, p = 0.001). Conclusions: This study found no evidence of a large advantage of BF over UF in restoring segmental lordosis, spondylolisthesis and posterior disc height in monosegmental MI-TLIF surgery. Given the higher blood loss and longer operative time observed with BF, its use should be selective for specific indications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Advances in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery)
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29 pages, 1315 KB  
Review
Targeting the Eye: RNA-Based Therapies, Interferences, and Delivery Strategies
by Mohammed S. Abdel-Raziq Hassan, Cheng Zhong, Fatma Hassan and S. Kevin Li
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(10), 1326; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17101326 - 13 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2225
Abstract
Recent advances in molecular biology have led to the development of RNA-based therapeutics, offering significant promise for treating various eye diseases. Current RNA therapeutics include RNA aptamers, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNA (siRNA), and messenger RNA (mRNA) that can target specific genetic [...] Read more.
Recent advances in molecular biology have led to the development of RNA-based therapeutics, offering significant promise for treating various eye diseases. Current RNA therapeutics include RNA aptamers, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNA (siRNA), and messenger RNA (mRNA) that can target specific genetic and molecular pathways involved in eye disorders. In addition to their potential in therapy, RNA technologies have also provided tools for mechanistic studies to improve the understanding of eye diseases, expanding the possibilities of RNA-based treatments. Despite the utility of RNA in studying eye disease mechanisms and its potential in disease treatment, only a few RNA-based therapies have been approved for posterior eye diseases. This paper reviews RNA interference and related ocular delivery and posterior eye diseases, focusing on the use of RNA aptamers, siRNA, short hairpin RNA (shRNA), and microRNA (miRNA). Approaches using RNA to advance our understanding of eye diseases and disease treatments, particularly in the posterior segment of the eye, are discussed. It is concluded that RNA therapeutics offer a novel approach to treating a variety of eye diseases by targeting their molecular causes. siRNA, shRNA, miRNA, and ASO can directly silence disease-driving genes, while RNA aptamers bind to specific targets. Although many RNA-based therapies are still in experimental stages, they hold promise for conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic macular edema (DME), glaucoma, and inherited retinal disorders. Effective delivery methods and long-term safety are key challenges that need to be addressed for these treatments to become widely available. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanomedicine and Nanotechnology)
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40 pages, 3508 KB  
Review
Iron: More than Meets the Eye
by Ethan R. Naquin, Richa Garg, William J. Chen, Eshani Karmakar, Amogh Prasad, Saicharan Mandadi, Kiran Depala, Jyotsna S. Gopianand and Jaya P. Gnana-Prakasam
Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 2964; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17182964 - 16 Sep 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3682
Abstract
Iron is an essential micronutrient integral to ocular physiology, supporting biochemical processes such as mitochondrial respiration, DNA synthesis and phototransduction. Disruptions in systemic or local iron homeostasis, whether due to overload or deficiency, have been increasingly implicated in the pathogenesis of a broad [...] Read more.
Iron is an essential micronutrient integral to ocular physiology, supporting biochemical processes such as mitochondrial respiration, DNA synthesis and phototransduction. Disruptions in systemic or local iron homeostasis, whether due to overload or deficiency, have been increasingly implicated in the pathogenesis of a broad range of anterior and posterior segment ocular disorders. Iron deficiency may compromise retinal bioenergetics, impair cellular repair, and increase susceptibility to oxidative stress, while iron overload facilitates the generation of reactive oxygen species, contributing to lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and ferroptosis. Dysregulated iron metabolism has been associated with several ocular pathologies, including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, retinal detachment, cataracts, and anemic retinopathy. The eye possesses specialized iron regulatory mechanisms involving proteins such as transferrin, ferritin, ferroportin, and hepcidin that govern iron transport, storage, and export across ocular barriers. Aberrations in these pathways are now recognized as contributing factors in disease progression. This narrative review explores the complex dual role of iron overload and deficiency in ocular diseases. It highlights the molecular mechanisms underlying iron-mediated pathologies in both the posterior and anterior segments of the eye, along with the clinical manifestations of iron imbalance. Current therapeutic approaches are discussed, including oral and parenteral iron supplementation for deficiency and emerging chelation-based or antioxidant strategies to address iron overload, while highlighting their limitations. Key challenges remain in developing targeted ocular delivery systems that optimize bioavailability and minimize systemic toxicity. Hence, maintaining iron homeostasis is critical for visual function, and further research is needed to refine therapeutic interventions and clarify the mechanistic role of iron in ocular health and disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Iron Homeostasis in Chronic Diseases)
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13 pages, 1694 KB  
Article
Comparison of Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs and Bleeding on Probing in Partial- and Full-Mouth Examinations for Assessing Children’s Gingival Status: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Hristina Tankova and Nadezhda Mitova
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(17), 9408; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15179408 - 27 Aug 2025
Viewed by 1905
Abstract
Background: The asymptomatic progression of initial gingival inflammation in children often remains unnoticed or undiagnosed. Although full-mouth periodontal examination is considered the gold standard in diagnosing periodontal diseases, it is usually time-consuming and expensive. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess [...] Read more.
Background: The asymptomatic progression of initial gingival inflammation in children often remains unnoticed or undiagnosed. Although full-mouth periodontal examination is considered the gold standard in diagnosing periodontal diseases, it is usually time-consuming and expensive. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess gingival status using partial-mouth examination with the Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN) and full-mouth examination with Bleeding on Probing (BOP) in the periodontal diagnosis of adolescents. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of 457 Bulgarian children aged 11 to 14 years. Full-mouth examination was performed with the BOP index on all fully erupted permanent teeth, probing four gingival sites—three buccal and one oral. Partial-mouth examination was performed with CPITN, probing six representative teeth at six sites. Statistical analysis was conducted using Pearson’s chi-square test (χ2) and t-tests to compare relative proportions. Results: The BOP index identified significantly more healthy children compared to the CPITN (t = 1.90, p < 0.05). The CPITN has limitations in distinguishing between initial (BOP 10–30%) and advanced (BOP 30–60%) gingival inflammation. The comparative evaluation of the two indices by sextant showed that a healthy periodontium is most commonly observed in the posterior segments of both jaws in children, while gingival inflammation is localized predominantly in frontal areas. Conclusions: The CPITN has the advantage of providing a quick and easy method for recording gingival status in children, but it does not allow for the determination of the severity of gingival inflammation. Clinical Significance: Full-mouth examination using the BOP index is a more appropriate method for periodontal diagnosis in children, as it provides a detailed and comprehensive picture of the condition of the gingival tissues, especially when a clinical diagnosis is required to guide further treatment planning. Full article
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19 pages, 1288 KB  
Review
Syphilis and the Eye: Clinical Features, Diagnostic Challenges, and Evolving Therapeutic Paradigms
by Zizhen Ye, Mingming Yang, Yaru Zou, Jing Zhang, Jiaxin Deng, Yuan Zong, Kyoko Ohno-Matsui and Koju Kamoi
Pathogens 2025, 14(9), 852; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14090852 - 27 Aug 2025
Viewed by 4044
Abstract
Syphilis is a systemic infection with a broad spectrum of ocular involvement that can affect every segment of the eye. Clinical presentations range from interstitial keratitis, conjunctivitis, episcleritis, and scleritis to anterior, intermediate, and posterior uveitis; acute syphilitic posterior placoid chorioretinitis; retinitis; retinal [...] Read more.
Syphilis is a systemic infection with a broad spectrum of ocular involvement that can affect every segment of the eye. Clinical presentations range from interstitial keratitis, conjunctivitis, episcleritis, and scleritis to anterior, intermediate, and posterior uveitis; acute syphilitic posterior placoid chorioretinitis; retinitis; retinal vasculitis; neuroretinitis; optic neuritis; exudative retinal detachment; and optic nerve dysfunction. These manifestations may occur at any stage of infection and are frequently nonspecific, contributing to diagnostic delays. Diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion and is established by combined non-treponemal and treponemal serologic testing, with cerebrospinal fluid analysis when neurosyphilis is suspected. Multimodal imaging, including optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography, fundus autofluorescence, and visual field testing, enhances the detection of subclinical and atypical diseases. Management mandates prompt intravenous penicillin G, with adjunctive corticosteroids to mitigate Jarisch–Herxheimer reactions and control inflammation; ceftriaxone or doxycycline serve as alternatives for penicillin-allergic patients. Long-term follow-up with serial serologies and neurologic evaluation is essential to detect relapse or progression to neurosyphilis. Despite effective therapy, diagnostic delays contribute to irreversible visual loss in a significant proportion of cases. This review integrates current knowledge on ocular syphilis, emphasizing its varied presentations and the importance of early recognition to prevent vision-threatening complications, and calls for multidisciplinary, mechanism-based research to optimize outcomes. We conducted a literature search in Pubmed and Embase for articles published between 2000 and 2025, using the terms “ocular syphilis,” “syphilitic uveitis,” and “neurosyphilis,” with a focus on epidemiology, clinical features, diagnostics, therapeutics, and co-infections. Full article
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15 pages, 1492 KB  
Article
Opportunistic Detection of Chronic Kidney Disease Using CT-Based Measurements of Kidney Volume and Perirenal Fat
by Piotr Białek, Michał Żuberek, Adam Dobek, Krzysztof Falenta, Ilona Kurnatowska and Ludomir Stefańczyk
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(16), 5888; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14165888 - 20 Aug 2025
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Abstract
Background/Objectives: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a prevalent condition with many cases remaining undiagnosed, although early detection is essential. Adipose tissue distribution—particularly perirenal fat thickness (PrFT)—has recently been linked to renal pathophysiology. This study assessed the association between CT-derived parameters of fat distribution [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a prevalent condition with many cases remaining undiagnosed, although early detection is essential. Adipose tissue distribution—particularly perirenal fat thickness (PrFT)—has recently been linked to renal pathophysiology. This study assessed the association between CT-derived parameters of fat distribution and kidney morphology with CKD. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 237 patients (117 subjects, 120 controls) who underwent abdominal CT and had serum creatinine data. The dataset was randomly split (70% training, 30% test) to develop and evaluate a logistic regression model. CKD was defined as estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. PrFT was measured as the distance from the posterior renal capsule to the posterior abdominal wall; renal hilum fat was segmented using a −195 to −45 HU range. Additional parameters (measured using automated segmentation tools) included kidney volume (KV), visceral/subcutaneous fat areas, skeletal muscle area and attenuation, and liver attenuation. Bilateral measurements were averaged. Results: KV (OR = 0.249, 95% CI: 0.146–0.422, p < 0.001) and PrFT (2nd tercile: OR = 7.720, 95% CI: 2.860–20.839; 3rd tercile: OR = 16.892, 95% CI: 5.727–49.822; both p < 0.001) were identified as independent predictors of CKD. These variables were used to construct a simplified model, which demonstrated moderate clinical applicability (AUC = 0.894) when evaluated on the test subset. Conclusions: KV and PrFT emerged as independent predictors of CKD, forming the basis of a simplified model with potential for opportunistic clinical application. This approach may facilitate earlier detection of CKD in patients undergoing CT imaging for unrelated clinical reasons. These imaging parameters are not intended to replace serum creatinine or eGFR but may serve as complementary predictors in specific clinical contexts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nephrology & Urology)
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Article
Changes in Retinal Nerve Fiber and Ganglion Cell Layers After Chemical Injury: A Prospective Study
by Justina Skruodyte, Justina Olechnovic and Pranas Serpytis
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5601; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155601 - 7 Aug 2025
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Abstract
Background: Chemical eye burns are a serious ophthalmic emergency that can lead to permanent vision loss in severe cases. This study aims to evaluate structural changes in the posterior segment of the eye in individuals who have experienced chemical burns. Methods: The study [...] Read more.
Background: Chemical eye burns are a serious ophthalmic emergency that can lead to permanent vision loss in severe cases. This study aims to evaluate structural changes in the posterior segment of the eye in individuals who have experienced chemical burns. Methods: The study included 64 eyes from 54 patients with chemical burns (chemical burn group) and 87 healthy eyes from 87 subjects (control group), matched by age and sex. Patients had confirmed burns with limbal ischemia, no glaucoma, normal intraocular pressure, and no major ocular or systemic diseases. Burned eyes were examined during the acute phase and again at 3 months, with some followed up at 6 months if significant retinal asymmetry was detected. Retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness was assessed in four quadrants, and ganglion cell complex (GCL++) thickness was analyzed using automated segmentation of optical coherence tomography (OCT) maps. Results: This study compared measurements between the burn group, the control group, and timepoints. OCT analysis revealed no significant difference in total RNFL thickness between burn patients and controls (mean difference: −1.14 µm, 95% CI: −3.92 to 1.64). Similarly, GCL++ thickness did not differ significantly between groups (mean difference: −0.97 µm, 95% CI: −3.31 to 1.37). At 6-month follow-up, a non-significant decline in both RNFL and GCL++ thicknesses was observed. Logistic regression identified higher Dua grade as an independent predictor of RNFL thinning (OR: 4.816, 95% CI: 1.103–21.030; p = 0.037). Patients with severe ocular chemical burns (Dua grade ≥ 3) demonstrated reduced RNFL thickness in all quadrants compared to healthy controls. The most pronounced reductions were observed in the nasal and superior quadrants (p = 0.007 and p = 0.069, respectively); however, after applying Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons, only the difference in the nasal quadrant remained statistically significant (adjusted p = 0.035). Conclusions: Although overall RNFL and GCL++ thicknesses did not differ significantly between burn patients and healthy controls, patients with severe ocular chemical burns (Dua grade ≥ 3) showed a significant reduction in RNFL thickness, in the nasal quadrant. Higher Dua grade was identified as an independent predictor of RNFL thinning. These findings suggest a potential association between burn severity and posterior segment changes, highlighting the need for further longitudinal studies with larger cohorts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ophthalmology)
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