Femtosecond-assisted keratopigmentation double tunnel technique in the management of a case of Urrets-Zavalia syndrome.

PubMed

Alio, Jorge L; Rodriguez, Alejandra E; Toffaha, Bader T; El Aswad, A

2012-09-01

To describe the successful use of a double intrastromal tunnel femtosecond-assisted keratopigmentation technique to manage a case of unilateral Urrets-Zavalia syndrome. A 33-year-old man was referred with a history of trauma in his right eye due to a labor-related accident. Because of myopic anisometropia, he had been previously implanted with an angle-supported phakic intraocular lens. The patient presented iris atrophy and a fixed dilated pupil. He complained of severe and incapacitating photophobia, glare, and decreased vision. To obtain a complete iris replica, the surgery involved creation of double keratopigmented intrastromal tunnels using femtosecond laser and micronized mineral pigments. The deepest layer was stained black first and then the superficial layer was stained with a contoured greenish blue-gray color, which matched the contralateral eye. In the immediate postoperative period, the patient reported a complete elimination of photophobia associated with the corrected distance visual acuity improvement. A very adequate cosmetic outcome was also achieved. Stability was observed during the 12-month follow-up. A femtosecond-assisted keratopigmentation technique using 2 pigmented intrastromal tunnels to achieve an intracorneal pigmented replica of the iris was effective in improving the patient's severe visual function disability and cosmetic appearance. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of severe visual function disability caused by atrophic iris and a fixed dilated pupil treated with double intrastromal layers of keratopigmentation by means of femtosecond-created tunnels.

Exploring the feasibility of iris recognition for visible spectrum iris images obtained using smartphone camera

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trokielewicz, Mateusz; Bartuzi, Ewelina; Michowska, Katarzyna; Andrzejewska, Antonina; Selegrat, Monika

2015-09-01

In the age of modern, hyperconnected society that increasingly relies on mobile devices and solutions, implementing a reliable and accurate biometric system employing iris recognition presents new challenges. Typical biometric systems employing iris analysis require expensive and complicated hardware. We therefore explore an alternative way using visible spectrum iris imaging. This paper aims at answering several questions related to applying iris biometrics for images obtained in the visible spectrum using smartphone camera. Can irides be successfully and effortlessly imaged using a smartphone's built-in camera? Can existing iris recognition methods perform well when presented with such images? The main advantage of using near-infrared (NIR) illumination in dedicated iris recognition cameras is good performance almost independent of the iris color and pigmentation. Are the images obtained from smartphone's camera of sufficient quality even for the dark irides? We present experiments incorporating simple image preprocessing to find the best visibility of iris texture, followed by a performance study to assess whether iris recognition methods originally aimed at NIR iris images perform well with visible light images. To our best knowledge this is the first comprehensive analysis of iris recognition performance using a database of high-quality images collected in visible light using the smartphones flashlight together with the application of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) iris recognition methods.

Retrospective Evaluation of Topical Bimatoprost and Iris Pigmentation Change.

PubMed

Zaleski-Larsen, Lisa A; Ruth, Nadine H; Fabi, Sabrina G

2017-12-01

Topical bimatoprost is a topical prostaglandin analog originally used to treat glaucoma and more recently used to cosmetically induce hypertrichosis of the eyelashes. Iris pigmentation change has been noted in the treatment of glaucoma but has not been assessed with the cosmetic periorbital application of bimatoprost. To evaluate for iris pigmentation change with the long-term cosmetic use of topical bimatoprost. A retrospective chart review in a cosmetic dermatology practice of women (N = 50) who consistently purchased topical bimatoprost over an average of 4.59 years was compared with that of age-matched non-bimatoprost patients (N = 50). A blinded evaluator assessed each patient for iris pigmentary change. No iris pigmentation change was noted with the cutaneous application of bimatoprost. The cutaneous application of bimatoprost appears to be safe with minimal risk for iris pigmentation change.

Deep learning architecture for iris recognition based on optimal Gabor filters and deep belief network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Fei; Han, Ye; Wang, Han; Ji, Jinchao; Liu, Yuanning; Ma, Zhiqiang

2017-03-01

Gabor filters are widely utilized to detect iris texture information in several state-of-the-art iris recognition systems. However, the proper Gabor kernels and the generative pattern of iris Gabor features need to be predetermined in application. The traditional empirical Gabor filters and shallow iris encoding ways are incapable of dealing with such complex variations in iris imaging including illumination, aging, deformation, and device variations. Thereby, an adaptive Gabor filter selection strategy and deep learning architecture are presented. We first employ particle swarm optimization approach and its binary version to define a set of data-driven Gabor kernels for fitting the most informative filtering bands, and then capture complex pattern from the optimal Gabor filtered coefficients by a trained deep belief network. A succession of comparative experiments validate that our optimal Gabor filters may produce more distinctive Gabor coefficients and our iris deep representations be more robust and stable than traditional iris Gabor codes. Furthermore, the depth and scales of the deep learning architecture are also discussed.

Active iris vascular tufts bleeding successfully treated with argon laser photocoagulation.

PubMed

Sarmad, Ambreen; Alfaqawi, Fadi; Chakrabarti, Monali; Mitra, Arijit; Mushtaq, Bushra

2018-03-01

Iris vascular tufts (IVT) are rare biomicroscopic capillary outgrowths from the pupillary margins. Patients are usually asymptomatic until presenting with blurred vision due to spontaneous hyphema or with raised intraocular pressure. A 61-year-old woman presented to eye casualty with left eye (LE) blurred vision and discomfort for 1 day. Her external ocular examination was unremarkable and visual acuity was 6/6 in the right eye (RE) and 6/9 in the LE. Biomicroscopic examination revealed a 2-mm hyphema in her LE and bilateral multiple small IVT and active bleeding from IVT at the pupillary margin of the LE at the 5 o'clock position. Diagnosis of LE active bleeding from IVT was made and she underwent argon laser photocoagulation directed at the source of bleeding. The bleeding stopped immediately after the second burn. She was followed up for 3 months; her visual acuity was 6/5 and 6/6 in the RE and LE, respectively, with no further problems. Iris vascular tufts are benign and recurrent hemorrhages are unlikely. Therefore, definitive argon laser photocoagulation or surgical treatment are reserved to arrest further episodes of hyphema. Our case demonstrates the effective use of argon laser photocoagulation to completely arrest active bleeding from IVT and excellent recovery of hyphema with no further problems for 5 years.

Iris abscess as an unusual presentation of endogenous endophthalmitis in a patient with bacterial endocarditis.

PubMed

Ramonas, Krista M; Freilich, Benjamin D

2003-02-01

To report the clinical findings and management of a case of endogenous endophthalmitis in a patient with bacterial endocarditis presenting with a septic metastasis to the iris. Observational case report. Review of clinical findings and treatment. A 37-year-old intravenous drug user hospitalized with bacterial endocarditis secondary to methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia presented with a painful red left eye, hypopyon, and iris abscess. Roth spots were noted in the fundus of the right eye. Aqueous culture was positive for methicillin-sensitive S aureus. The patient was treated with intravitreal, topical, and intravenous antibiotics. The hypopyon and iris abscess resolved within 2 weeks, and the patient achieved a final visual acuity of 20/25 in the left eye. Septic metastasis to the iris is a rare occurrence. To our knowledge this is the first reported case of an iris abscess secondary to bacterial endocarditis.

Public Watches IRIS Launch Broadcast at NASA Ames (Reporter Pkg)

NASA Image and Video Library

2013-06-27

Crowds of space enthusiasts gathered at Ames Research Center to witness the broadcast of NASA's Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph or IRIS Mission as it launched from an aircraft out of Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. Speakers shared insights about the IRIS Mission and attendees cheered as the Pegasus rocket successfully separated from the L-1011 launch aircraft and proceeded to fire its rockets and launch into a polar orbit around the Earth.

Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome associated with toxoplasmic encephalitis in HIV-infected patients.

PubMed

van Bilsen, Ward P H; van den Berg, Charlotte H S B; Rijnders, Bart J A; Brinkman, Kees; Mulder, Jan W; Gelinck, Luc B S; Hoepelman, Andy I M; Wit, Ferdinand W N M; van de Beek, Diederik; Prins, Jan M

2017-06-19

To investigate the incidence and risk factors of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) associated with toxoplasmic encephalitis (TE) in patients starting combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). A historical multicenter cohort study. We included all HIV-infected patients diagnosed with toxoplasmic encephalitis in six Dutch hospitals between 1996 and 2016. Diagnosis of TE-IRIS was made using predefined IRIS criteria. We distinguished paradoxical TE-IRIS (worsening of underlying treated infection) from unmasking TE-IRIS (unmasking of subclinical infection after start of cART). We compared CD4 cell count, plasma viral load and timing of cART initiation between patients with and without paradoxical TE-IRIS. A total of 211 toxoplasmic encephalitis cases were included. Among 143 cases at risk for paradoxical TE-IRIS, we identified five cases of paradoxical TE-IRIS (3.5%). In six other cases, we could not differentiate paradoxical TE-IRIS from recurrence of disease due to inadequate secondary Toxoplasma prophylaxis. There was no difference in time between start of toxoplasmic encephalitis treatment and cART initiation for patients who did or did not develop paradoxical TE-IRIS (P = 0.50). Within the group of 2228 patients who started cART while having a CD4 cell count below 200 × 10 cells/l and receiving adequate primary prophylaxis, we identified eight cases of unmasking TE-IRIS (0.36%). Unmasking TE-IRIS could not be differentiated from a newly occurring toxoplasmic encephalitis in six other patients, as they were not receiving adequate primary prophylaxis against Toxoplasma. Unmasking TE-IRIS was rare in this cohort, whereas paradoxical TE-IRIS did occur more often. We found no relationship between the timing of cART initiation and the occurrence of paradoxical TE-IRIS.

Viscoelastic-Assisted Non-Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty in Vitrectomized and Iris-Lens Diaphragm Injured Eyes.

PubMed

Ren, Yueping; Zhao, Zelin; Shao, Yumei; Waller, Stephen G; Jhanji, Vishal; Chen, Wei

2015-11-01

To report the outcomes of viscoelastic-aided non-Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (nDSAEK) to treat bullous keratopathy in vitrectomized and iris-lens diaphragm injured eyes. A prospective consecutive case series of eyes with bullous keratopathy underwent nDSAEK. About 0.15 to 0.2 mL cohesive viscoelastic was injected into the anterior chamber in front of the iris defect to prevent air from entering the posterior chamber and vitreous cavity. Filtered air was injected until the intraocular pressure (IOP) rose to a mildly high level. Graft position and complications were monitored postoperatively. Endothelial cell density and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were recorded at a 1-year follow-up. Viscoelastic-aided nDSAEK was performed in 21 cases (11 males, 10 females; mean age: 58.9±12.4 years). No intraoperative complications were noted. Effective graft adherence was achieved in all cases intraoperatively. Postoperatively, partial graft dislocation was seen in 2 cases because of hypotony (IOP, 6 and 5 mm Hg, respectively) due to postoperative cyclodialysis as demonstrated on anterior segment optical coherence tomography. Hypotony was successfully managed conservatively with spontaneous graft reattachment. One year postoperatively, the median BCVA improved to 20/50. The mean endothelial cell loss was 14.7±12.6% and 20.5±11.1% at 6 months and 1 year, respectively. In vitrectomized and iris-lens diaphragm injured eyes, viscoelastic-aided nDSAEK effectively facilitated graft adherence and reduced graft dislocation. Appropriate control of IOP was considered to play a vital role in supporting the graft adherence.

A multi-approach feature extractions for iris recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanpachai, H.; Settapong, M.

2014-04-01

Biometrics is a promising technique that is used to identify individual traits and characteristics. Iris recognition is one of the most reliable biometric methods. As iris texture and color is fully developed within a year of birth, it remains unchanged throughout a person's life. Contrary to fingerprint, which can be altered due to several aspects including accidental damage, dry or oily skin and dust. Although iris recognition has been studied for more than a decade, there are limited commercial products available due to its arduous requirement such as camera resolution, hardware size, expensive equipment and computational complexity. However, at the present time, technology has overcome these obstacles. Iris recognition can be done through several sequential steps which include pre-processing, features extractions, post-processing, and matching stage. In this paper, we adopted the directional high-low pass filter for feature extraction. A box-counting fractal dimension and Iris code have been proposed as feature representations. Our approach has been tested on CASIA Iris Image database and the results are considered successful.

Evaluation of iris recognition system for wavefront-guided laser in situ keratomileusis for myopic astigmatism.

PubMed

Ghosh, Sudipta; Couper, Terry A; Lamoureux, Ecosse; Jhanji, Vishal; Taylor, Hugh R; Vajpayee, Rasik B

2008-02-01

To evaluate the visual and refractive outcomes of wavefront-guided laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) using an iris recognition system for the correction of myopic astigmatism. Centre for Eye Research Australia, Melbourne Excimer Laser Research Group, and Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. A comparative analysis of wavefront-guided LASIK was performed with an iris recognition system (iris recognition group) and without iris recognition (control group). The main parameters were uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best spectacle-corrected visual acuity, amount of residual cylinder, manifest spherical equivalent (SE), and the index of success using the Alpins method of astigmatism analysis 1 and 3 months postoperatively. A P value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Preoperatively, the mean SE was -4.32 diopters (D) +/- 1.59 (SD) in the iris recognition group (100 eyes) and -4.55 +/- 1.87 D in the control group (98 eyes) (P = .84). At 3 months, the mean SE was -0.05 +/- 0.21 D and -0.20 +/- 0.40 D, respectively (P = .001), and an SE within +/-0.50 D of emmetropia was achieved in 92.0% and 85.7% of eyes, respectively (P = .07). At 3 months, the UCVA was 20/20 or better in 90.0% and 76.5% of eyes, respectively. A statistically significant difference in the amount of astigmatic correction was seen between the 2 groups (P = .00 and P = .01 at 1 and 3 months, respectively). The index of success was 98.0% in the iris recognition group and 81.6% in the control group (P = .03). Iris recognition software may achieve better visual and refractive outcomes in wavefront-guided LASIK for myopic astigmatism.

Reliability of automatic biometric iris recognition after phacoemulsification or drug-induced pupil dilation.

PubMed

Seyeddain, Orang; Kraker, Hannes; Redlberger, Andreas; Dexl, Alois K; Grabner, Günther; Emesz, Martin

2014-01-01

To investigate the reliability of a biometric iris recognition system for personal authentication after cataract surgery or iatrogenic pupil dilation. This was a prospective, nonrandomized, single-center, cohort study for evaluating the performance of an iris recognition system 2-24 hours after phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation (group 1) and before and after iatrogenic pupil dilation (group 2). Of the 173 eyes that could be enrolled before cataract surgery, 164 (94.8%) were easily recognized postoperatively, whereas in 9 (5.2%) this was not possible. However, these 9 eyes could be reenrolled and afterwards recognized successfully. In group 2, of a total of 184 eyes that were enrolled in miosis, a total of 22 (11.9%) could not be recognized in mydriasis and therefore needed reenrollment. No single case of false-positive acceptance occurred in either group. The results of this trial indicate that standard cataract surgery seems not to be a limiting factor for iris recognition in the large majority of cases. Some patients (5.2% in this study) might need "reenrollment" after cataract surgery. Iris recognition was primarily successful in eyes with medically dilated pupils in nearly 9 out of 10 eyes. No single case of false-positive acceptance occurred in either group in this trial. It seems therefore that iris recognition is a valid biometric method in the majority of cases after cataract surgery or after pupil dilation.

Muc1 is protective during kidney ischemia-reperfusion injury

PubMed Central

Pastor-Soler, Núria M.; Sutton, Timothy A.; Mang, Henry E.; Kinlough, Carol L.; Gendler, Sandra J.; Madsen, Cathy S.; Bastacky, Sheldon I.; Ho, Jacqueline; Al-bataineh, Mohammad M.; Hallows, Kenneth R.; Singh, Sucha; Monga, Satdarshan P.; Kobayashi, Hanako; Haase, Volker H.

2015-01-01

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) due to hypotension is a common cause of human acute kidney injury (AKI). Hypoxia-inducible transcription factors (HIFs) orchestrate a protective response in renal endothelial and epithelial cells in AKI models. As human mucin 1 (MUC1) is induced by hypoxia and enhances HIF-1 activity in cultured epithelial cells, we asked whether mouse mucin 1 (Muc1) regulates HIF-1 activity in kidney tissue during IRI. Whereas Muc1 was localized on the apical surface of the thick ascending limb, distal convoluted tubule, and collecting duct in the kidneys of sham-treated mice, Muc1 appeared in the cytoplasm and nucleus of all tubular epithelia during IRI. Muc1 was induced during IRI, and Muc1 transcripts and protein were also present in recovering proximal tubule cells. Kidney damage was worse and recovery was blocked during IRI in Muc1 knockout mice compared with congenic control mice. Muc1 knockout mice had reduced levels of HIF-1α, reduced or aberrant induction of HIF-1 target genes involved in the shift of glucose metabolism to glycolysis, and prolonged activation of AMP-activated protein kinase, indicating metabolic stress. Muc1 clearly plays a significant role in enhancing the HIF protective pathway during ischemic insult and recovery in kidney epithelia, providing a new target for developing therapies to treat AKI. Moreover, our data support a role specifically for HIF-1 in epithelial protection of the kidney during IRI as Muc1 is present only in tubule epithelial cells. PMID:25925251

Photoacoustic imaging for assessing ischemic kidney damage in vivo

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berndl, Elizabeth S. L.; He, Xiaolin; Yuen, Darren A.; Kolios, Michael C.

2018-02-01

Ischemic reperfusion injuries (IRIs) occur after blood returns to a tissue or organ after a period without oxygen or nutrients, which causes an inflammatory response leading to heterogeneous scarring of the nearby tissue and vasculature. This is associated with long-term decreases blood flow, and necrosis. Although most commonly associated with heart attacks and strokes, IRIs are also a side effect of organ transplants, when the organ is reperfused in the recipient's body after being transported from the donor to the transplant hospital. Currently, the optimal method of monitoring for IRI is limited to biopsies, which are invasive and poorly monitor the spatial heterogeneity of the damage. To non-invasively identify changes in kidneys, the left renal artery in mice (n=3) was clamped for 45 minutes to create an IRI event. Both kidneys of each animal were monitored using photoacoustics (PA) with the VevoLAZR system (Fujifilm-VisualSonics, Toronto) three, four and eight weeks after surgery. IRI-treated kidneys show increased picosirius red staining, indicative of collagen (0.601 vs 0.042, p < 0.0001), decreased size as assessed by cross-sectional area (7.8 mm2 vs 35.9 mm2 , p < 0.0001), and decreased oxygen saturation (sO2; 62% vs 77%, p = 0.02). Analysis of the photoacoustic data shows that a two-point metric, the 715:930 nm ratio of the whole kidney (1.05 vs 0.57, p = 0.049) and the optical spectral slope (OSS) (0.8 * 10-3 vs 3.0 * 10-3, p = 0.013) are both able to differentiate between IRI-treated and healthy kidneys. These data suggest that photoacoustics can be used as a non-invasive method to observe in vivo changes in the kidney due to IRI.

Silicon Graphics' IRIS InSight: An SGML Success Story.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Glushko, Robert J.; Kershner, Ken

1993-01-01

Offers a case history of the development of the Silicon Graphics "IRIS InSight" system, a system for viewing on-line documentation using Standard Generalized Markup Language. Notes that SGML's explicit encoding of structure and separation of structure and presentation make possible structure-based search, alternative structural views of…

Unified framework for automated iris segmentation using distantly acquired face images.

PubMed

Tan, Chun-Wei; Kumar, Ajay

2012-09-01

Remote human identification using iris biometrics has high civilian and surveillance applications and its success requires the development of robust segmentation algorithm to automatically extract the iris region. This paper presents a new iris segmentation framework which can robustly segment the iris images acquired using near infrared or visible illumination. The proposed approach exploits multiple higher order local pixel dependencies to robustly classify the eye region pixels into iris or noniris regions. Face and eye detection modules have been incorporated in the unified framework to automatically provide the localized eye region from facial image for iris segmentation. We develop robust postprocessing operations algorithm to effectively mitigate the noisy pixels caused by the misclassification. Experimental results presented in this paper suggest significant improvement in the average segmentation errors over the previously proposed approaches, i.e., 47.5%, 34.1%, and 32.6% on UBIRIS.v2, FRGC, and CASIA.v4 at-a-distance databases, respectively. The usefulness of the proposed approach is also ascertained from recognition experiments on three different publicly available databases.

Contrasting cellular damage after Blue-IRIS and Femto-LASIK in cat cornea.

PubMed

Wozniak, Kaitlin T; Elkins, Noah; Brooks, Daniel R; Savage, Daniel E; MacRae, Scott; Ellis, Jonathan D; Knox, Wayne H; Huxlin, Krystel R

2017-12-01

Blue-intra-tissue refractive index shaping (Blue-IRIS) is a new approach to laser refractive correction of optical aberrations in the eye, which alters the refractive index of the cornea rather than changing its shape. Before it can be implemented in humans, it is critical to establish whether and to what extent, Blue-IRIS damages the cornea. Here, we contrasted the impact of -1.5 D cylinder refractive corrections inscribed using either Blue-IRIS or femtosecond laser in-situ keratomileusis (femto-LASIK) on corneal cell viability. Blue-IRIS was used to write a -1.5 D cylinder gradient index (GRIN) lens over a 2.5 mm by 2.5 mm area into the mid-stromal region of the cornea in six freshly-enucleated feline eyes. The same correction (-1.5 D cylinder) was inscribed into another four cat eyes using femto-LASIK. Six hours later, all corneas were processed for histology and stained for terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-digoxigenin nick end labeling (TUNEL) and p-γ-H2AX to label damaged cells. In Blue-IRIS-treated corneas, no tissue was removed and TUNEL-stained cells were confined to the laser focal zone in the stroma. In femto-LASIK, photoablation removed 14 μm of anterior stroma, but in addition, TUNEL-positive cells clustered across the femto-flap, the epithelium at the flap edges and the stroma below the ablation zone. Keratocytes positive for p-γ-H2AX were seen adjacent to all Blue-IRIS focal zones, but were completely absent from femto-LASIK-treated corneas. Unlike femto-LASIK, Blue-IRIS attains refractive correction in the cornea without tissue removal and only causes minimal, localized keratocyte death within the laser focal zones. In addition, Blue-IRIS induced DNA modifications associated with phosphorylation of γ-H2AX in keratocytes adjacent to the laser focal zones. We posit that this p-γ-H2AX response is related to alterations in chromatin structure caused by localized changes in osmolarity, a possible mechanism for the induced refractive index changes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

QSAR Accelerated Discovery of Potent Ice Recrystallization Inhibitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Briard, Jennie G.; Fernandez, Michael; de Luna, Phil; Woo, Tom. K.; Ben, Robert N.

2016-05-01

Ice recrystallization is the main contributor to cell damage and death during the cryopreservation of cells and tissues. Over the past five years, many small carbohydrate-based molecules were identified as ice recrystallization inhibitors and several were shown to reduce cryoinjury during the cryopreservation of red blood cells (RBCs) and hematopoietic stems cells (HSCs). Unfortunately, clear structure-activity relationships have not been identified impeding the rational design of future compounds possessing ice recrystallization inhibition (IRI) activity. A set of 124 previously synthesized compounds with known IRI activities were used to calibrate 3D-QSAR classification models using GRid INdependent Descriptors (GRIND) derived from DFT level quantum mechanical calculations. Partial least squares (PLS) model was calibrated with 70% of the data set which successfully identified 80% of the IRI active compounds with a precision of 0.8. This model exhibited good performance in screening the remaining 30% of the data set with 70% of active additives successfully recovered with a precision of ~0.7 and specificity of 0.8. The model was further applied to screen a new library of aryl-alditol molecules which were then experimentally synthesized and tested with a success rate of 82%. Presented is the first computer-aided high-throughput experimental screening for novel IRI active compounds.

QSAR Accelerated Discovery of Potent Ice Recrystallization Inhibitors

PubMed Central

Briard, Jennie G.; Fernandez, Michael; De Luna, Phil; Woo, Tom. K.; Ben, Robert N.

2016-01-01

Ice recrystallization is the main contributor to cell damage and death during the cryopreservation of cells and tissues. Over the past five years, many small carbohydrate-based molecules were identified as ice recrystallization inhibitors and several were shown to reduce cryoinjury during the cryopreservation of red blood cells (RBCs) and hematopoietic stems cells (HSCs). Unfortunately, clear structure-activity relationships have not been identified impeding the rational design of future compounds possessing ice recrystallization inhibition (IRI) activity. A set of 124 previously synthesized compounds with known IRI activities were used to calibrate 3D-QSAR classification models using GRid INdependent Descriptors (GRIND) derived from DFT level quantum mechanical calculations. Partial least squares (PLS) model was calibrated with 70% of the data set which successfully identified 80% of the IRI active compounds with a precision of 0.8. This model exhibited good performance in screening the remaining 30% of the data set with 70% of active additives successfully recovered with a precision of ~0.7 and specificity of 0.8. The model was further applied to screen a new library of aryl-alditol molecules which were then experimentally synthesized and tested with a success rate of 82%. Presented is the first computer-aided high-throughput experimental screening for novel IRI active compounds. PMID:27216585

QSAR Accelerated Discovery of Potent Ice Recrystallization Inhibitors.

PubMed

Briard, Jennie G; Fernandez, Michael; De Luna, Phil; Woo, Tom K; Ben, Robert N

2016-05-24

Ice recrystallization is the main contributor to cell damage and death during the cryopreservation of cells and tissues. Over the past five years, many small carbohydrate-based molecules were identified as ice recrystallization inhibitors and several were shown to reduce cryoinjury during the cryopreservation of red blood cells (RBCs) and hematopoietic stems cells (HSCs). Unfortunately, clear structure-activity relationships have not been identified impeding the rational design of future compounds possessing ice recrystallization inhibition (IRI) activity. A set of 124 previously synthesized compounds with known IRI activities were used to calibrate 3D-QSAR classification models using GRid INdependent Descriptors (GRIND) derived from DFT level quantum mechanical calculations. Partial least squares (PLS) model was calibrated with 70% of the data set which successfully identified 80% of the IRI active compounds with a precision of 0.8. This model exhibited good performance in screening the remaining 30% of the data set with 70% of active additives successfully recovered with a precision of ~0.7 and specificity of 0.8. The model was further applied to screen a new library of aryl-alditol molecules which were then experimentally synthesized and tested with a success rate of 82%. Presented is the first computer-aided high-throughput experimental screening for novel IRI active compounds.

Surgical peripheral iridectomy via a clear-cornea phacoemulsification incision for pupillary block following cataract surgery in acute angle closure.

PubMed

Fang, Aiwu; Wang, Peijuan; He, Rui; Qu, Jia

2018-05-18

To describe a technique of surgical peripheral iridectomy via a clear-cornea tunnel incision to prevent or treat pupillary block following phacoemulsification. Description of technique and retrospective description results in 20 eyes of 20 patients with acute angle closure with coexisting visually significant cataract undergoing phacoemulsification considered at risk of postoperative papillary block as well as two pseudo-phakic eyes with acute postoperative pupillary-block. Following phacoemulsification and insertion of an intraocular lens, a needle with a bent tip was inserted behind the iris through the corneal tunnel incision. A blunt iris repositor was introduced through the paracentesis and placed above the iris to exert posterior pressure and create a puncture. The size of the puncture was enlarged using scissors. For postoperative pupillary block the same technique was carried out through the existing incisions created for phacoemulsification. Peripheral iridectomy was successfully created in all 22 eyes. At a mean follow-up of 18.77 ± 9.72 months, none of the iridectomies closed or required enlargement. Two eyes had mild intraoperative bleeding and one eye a small Descemet's detachment that did not require intervention. No clinically significant complications were observed. Visual acuity and IOP improved or was maintained in all patients. The incidence of pupillary block in our hospital was 0.09% overall, 0.6% in diabetics and 3.5% in those with diabetic retinopathy. This technique of peripheral iridectomy via the cornea tunnel incision can be safely used during phacoemulsification in eyes at high risk of pupillary block or in the treatment of acute postoperative pupillary-block after cataract surgery. The technique is likely to be especially useful in brown iris, or if a laser is not available.

Test of the Practicality and Feasibility of EDoF-Empowered Image Sensors for Long-Range Biometrics.

PubMed

Hsieh, Sheng-Hsun; Li, Yung-Hui; Tien, Chung-Hao

2016-11-25

For many practical applications of image sensors, how to extend the depth-of-field (DoF) is an important research topic; if successfully implemented, it could be beneficial in various applications, from photography to biometrics. In this work, we want to examine the feasibility and practicability of a well-known "extended DoF" (EDoF) technique, or "wavefront coding," by building real-time long-range iris recognition and performing large-scale iris recognition. The key to the success of long-range iris recognition includes long DoF and image quality invariance toward various object distance, which is strict and harsh enough to test the practicality and feasibility of EDoF-empowered image sensors. Besides image sensor modification, we also explored the possibility of varying enrollment/testing pairs. With 512 iris images from 32 Asian people as the database, 400-mm focal length and F/6.3 optics over 3 m working distance, our results prove that a sophisticated coding design scheme plus homogeneous enrollment/testing setups can effectively overcome the blurring caused by phase modulation and omit Wiener-based restoration. In our experiments, which are based on 3328 iris images in total, the EDoF factor can achieve a result 3.71 times better than the original system without a loss of recognition accuracy.

Dynamics of Inflammatory Factors in Aqueous Humor during Ranibizumab or Aflibercept Treatment for Age-Related Macular Degeneration.

PubMed

Motohashi, Ryosuke; Noma, Hidetaka; Yasuda, Kanako; Kotake, Osamu; Goto, Hiroshi; Shimura, Masahiko

2017-01-01

To evaluate the dynamic changes of the aqueous humor levels of inflammatory factors between patients receiving intravitreal ranibizumab injection (IRI) and aflibercept injection (IAI) in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The study was performed on 30 eyes with AMD that were scheduled to receive 3 doses of IRI (15 eyes) or IAI (15 eyes) at monthly intervals. Aqueous humor samples were collected when injection was done. The concentrations of VEGF, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-AA, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-8 were measured in aqueous humor samples from the 30 AMD patients and 10 cataract patients (as controls) by the suspension array method. Aqueous levels of the inflammatory factors (MCP-1, PDGF-AA, IL-6, and IL-8) were significantly correlated with each other. In both the IRI-treated eyes and the IAI-treated eyes, visual acuity and central macular thickness improved significantly, and the aqueous level of VEGF showed a significant decrease. In IAI-treated eyes, the aqueous levels of MCP-1 and PDGF-AA were significantly decreased at 2 months. These findings suggest that the inflammatory factors are involved in the pathogenesis of AMD and also the possibility that the interaction between these inflammatory factors and IRI or IAI is different. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

[Neuropathology of Natalizumab-Associated Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy].

PubMed

Kanda, Takashi

2015-07-01

The pathological findings of natalizumab-associated progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) are reviewed. In addition to the classical pathology of PML including the presence of enlarged abnormal astrocytes, intranuclear inclusions mainly found within large swollen oligodendrocytes and abundant myelin-laden macrophages/microglia, massive perivascular and parenchymal mononuclear cell infiltration was observed. The latter pathologic picture is that of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), and most of these infiltrating cells are CD8-positive T cells. Because IRIS inevitably occurs after the cessation of natalizumab therapy due to the development of PML and subsequent plasma exchange, most of the published pathologic pictures of natalizumab-associated PML patients were a mixture of PML and PML-IRIS. PML-IRIS is also characterized by fewer oligodendroglial viral inclusions and fewer cells that are immunoreactive against anti-JCV antibodies. These findings suggest the effective removal of JCV after the return of normal immune-surveillance in the central nervous system, but clinicians should be aware that JCV elimination is not complete under the IRIS condition, and the immunosuppressive therapy against IRIS should be carefully performed. Mononuclear cell infiltration in natalizumab-associated PML-IRIS patients was much more prominent than that in HIV-associated PML-IRIS patients, reflecting the retained, even enhanced, systemic immunities in patients treated by natalizumab.

Effect of Γ-aminobutyric acid on kidney injury induced by renal ischemia-reperfusion in male and female rats: Gender-related difference.

PubMed

Vafapour, Marzieh; Nematbakhsh, Mehdi; Monajemi, Ramesh; Mazaheri, Safoora; Talebi, Ardeshir; Talebi, Nahid; Shirdavani, Soheyla

2015-01-01

The most important cause of kidney injury is renal ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI), which is gender-related. This study was designed to investigate the protective role of Γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA (against IRI in male and female rats. Thirty-six female and male wistar rats were assigned to six experimental groups. The IRI was induced by clamping renal vessels for 45 min then was performed reperfusion for 24 h. The group sex posed to IRI were pretreated with GABA and were compared with the control groups. Serum levels of creatinine and blood urea nitrogen, kidney weight, and kidney tissue damage score increased in the IRI alone groups, (P < 0.05), while GABA decreased these parameters in female significantly (P < 0.05), but not in male rats. Uterus weight decreased significantly in female rats treated with GABA. Testis weight did not alter in male rats. Serum level of nitrite and kidney level of malondialdehyde (MDA) had no significant change in both female and male rats. Kidney level of nitrite increased significantly in female rats experienced IRI and serum level of MDA increased significantly in males that were exposed to IRI (P < 0.05). GABA could ameliorate kidney injury induced by renal IRI in a gender dependent manner.

Evaluation of paradoxical TB–associated IRIS with the use of standardized case definitions for resource limited settings

PubMed Central

Eshun-Wilson, Ingrid; Havers, Fiona; Nachega, Jean B; Prozesky, Hans W; Taljaard, Jantjie J; Zeier, Michele D; Cotton, Mark; Simon, Gary; Soentjens, Patrick

2011-01-01

Objective Standardized case definitions have recently been proposed by the International Network for the Study of HIV-associated IRIS (INSHI) for use in resource-limited settings. We evaluated paradoxical TB-associated IRIS in a large cohort from a TB endemic setting with the use of these case definitions. Design A retrospective cohort analysis. Methods We reviewed records from 1250 South African patients who initiated anti-retroviral therapy (ART) over a five-year period. Results 333 (27%) of the patients in the cohort had prevalent TB at the initiation of ART. Of 54 possible paradoxical TB-associated IRIS cases, 35 fulfilled the INSHI case definitions (11% of TB cases). Conclusions INSHI standardised case definitions were used successfully in identifying paradoxical TB-associated IRIS in this cohort and resulted in a similar proportion of TB IRIS cases (11%) as that reported in previous studies from resource-limited settings (8-13%). This case definition should be evaluated prospectively. PMID:20160249

Heterogeneous iris image hallucination using sparse representation on a learned heterogeneous patch dictionary

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yung-Hui; Zheng, Bo-Ren; Ji, Dai-Yan; Tien, Chung-Hao; Liu, Po-Tsun

2014-09-01

Cross sensor iris matching may seriously degrade the recognition performance because of the sensor mis-match problem of iris images between the enrollment and test stage. In this paper, we propose two novel patch-based heterogeneous dictionary learning method to attack this problem. The first method applies the latest sparse representation theory while the second method tries to learn the correspondence relationship through PCA in heterogeneous patch space. Both methods learn the basic atoms in iris textures across different image sensors and build connections between them. After such connections are built, at test stage, it is possible to hallucinate (synthesize) iris images across different sensors. By matching training images with hallucinated images, the recognition rate can be successfully enhanced. The experimental results showed the satisfied results both visually and in terms of recognition rate. Experimenting with an iris database consisting of 3015 images, we show that the EER is decreased 39.4% relatively by the proposed method.

IL233, A Novel IL-2 and IL-33 Hybrid Cytokine, Ameliorates Renal Injury.

PubMed

Stremska, Marta E; Jose, Sheethal; Sabapathy, Vikram; Huang, Liping; Bajwa, Amandeep; Kinsey, Gilbert R; Sharma, Poonam R; Mohammad, Saleh; Rosin, Diane L; Okusa, Mark D; Sharma, Rahul

2017-09-01

CD4 + Foxp3 + regulatory T cells (Tregs) protect the kidney during AKI. We previously found that IL-2, which is critical for Treg homeostasis, upregulates the IL-33 receptor (ST2) on CD4 + T cells, thus we hypothesized that IL-2 and IL-33 cooperate to enhance Treg function. We found that a major subset of Tregs in mice express ST2, and coinjection of IL-2 and IL-33 increased the number of Tregs in lymphoid organs and protected mice from ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) more efficiently than either cytokine alone. Accordingly, we generated a novel hybrid cytokine (IL233) bearing the activities of IL-2 and IL-33 for efficient targeting to Tregs. IL233 treatment increased the number of Tregs in blood and spleen and prevented IRI more efficiently than a mixture of IL-2 and IL-33. Injection of IL233 also increased the numbers of Tregs in renal compartments. Moreover, IL233-treated mice had fewer splenic Tregs and more Tregs in kidneys after IRI. In vitro , splenic Tregs from IL233-treated mice suppressed CD4 + T cell proliferation better than Tregs from saline-treated controls. IL233 treatment also improved the ability of isolated Tregs to inhibit IRI in adoptive transfer experiments and protected mice from cisplatin- and doxorubicin-induced nephrotoxic injury. Finally, treatment with IL233 increased the proportion of ST2-bearing innate lymphoid cells (ILC2) in blood and kidneys, and adoptive transfer of ILC2 also protected mice from IRI. Thus, the novel IL233 hybrid cytokine, which utilizes the cooperation of IL-2 and IL-33 to enhance Treg- and ILC2-mediated protection from AKI, bears strong therapeutic potential. Copyright © 2017 by the American Society of Nephrology.

Estradiol worsens the syndrome of ischemia-reperfusion injury in an experimental lung transplantation model.

PubMed

Santana-Rodríguez, Norberto; Clavo, Bernardino; Llontop, Pedro; López, Ana; García-Castellano, José Manuel; Machín, Rubén P; Ponce, Miguel A; Fiuza, María D; García-Herrera, Ricardo; Brito, Yanira; Yordi, Nagib Atallah; Chirino, Ricardo

2011-06-01

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a common complication after lung transplantation. There is evidence that reactive oxygen species are involved in its pathogenesis. We designed an experimental study to evaluate whether the administration of antioxidants to lung transplantation recipients protects against IRI and early acute rejection (AR). Twenty-five rats received left lung transplants after 6 h of ischemia. Fifty minutes before the reperfusion, groups of five rats received a single dose of desferrioxamine (20 mg/kg), estradiol (25 mg/kg), or melatonin (10 mg/kg). The animals were killed 48 h after surgery and the postoperative outcome, IRI, and AR were evaluated. The frequency of severe injury and of moderate-to-severe edema was higher in animals treated with estradiol than in the control group (P = 0.022 and P = 0.026, respectively). No significant changes in the degree of IRI or AR were observed in the groups treated with desferrioxamine or melatonin. In our study, treatment with the antioxidants melatonin or desferrioxamine before reperfusion had no effects on IRI damage or on AR frequency or severity. However, treatment with estradiol resulted in a worse postoperative outcome and in severe edema. Therefore, despite the antioxidant capacity of estradiol, it is recommended that an evaluation of these adverse effects of estradiol in human lung transplant recipients be performed.

Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Characteristics of Iris Melanocytic Tumors

PubMed Central

Skalet, Alison H.; Li, Yan; Lu, Chen D.; Jia, Yali; Lee, ByungKun; Husvogt, Lennart; Maier, Andreas; Fujimoto, James G.; Thomas, Charles R.; Huang, David

2016-01-01

Objective To evaluate tumor vasculature with optical coherence tomography (OCT) angiography (OCTA) in malignant iris melanomas and benign iris lesions. Design Cross-sectional observational clinical study. Participants Patients with iris lesions and healthy volunteers. Methods Eyes were imaged using OCTA systems operating at 1050 and 840 nm wavelengths. Three-dimensional OCTA scans were acquired. Iris melanomas patients treated with radiation therapy were imaged again after I-125 plaque brachytherapy at 6 and 18 months. Main Outcome Measures OCT and OCTA images, qualitative evaluation of iris and tumor vasculature and quantitative vessel density. Results One eye each of eight normal volunteers and nine patients with iris melanomas or benign iris lesions including freckles, nevi, and an iris pigment epithelial (IPE) cyst were imaged. The normal iris has radially-oriented vessels within the stroma on OCTA. Penetration of flow signal in normal iris depended on iris color, with best penetration seen in light to moderately pigmented irides. Iris melanomas demonstrated tortuous and disorganized intratumoral vasculature. In two eyes with nevi there was no increased vascularity; in another, fine vascular loops were noted near an area of ectropion uveae. Iris freckles and the IPE cyst did not have intrinsic vascularity. The vessel density was significantly higher within iris melanomas (34.5%±9.8%, p<0.05) than in benign iris nevi (8.0%±1.4%) or normal irides (8.0%±1.2%). Tumor regression after radiation therapy for melanomas was associated with decreased vessel density. OCTA at 1050 nm provided better visualization of tumor vasculature and penetration through thicker tumors than at 840 nm. But in very thick tumors and highly pigmented lesions even 1050 nm OCTA could not visualize their full thickness. Interpretable OCTA images were obtained in 82% participants in whom imaging was attempted. Conclusions This is the first demonstration of OCTA in iris tumors. OCTA may provide a dye-free, no-injection, cost-effective method for monitoring a variety of tumors including iris melanocytic lesions for growth and vascularity. This could be helpful in evaluating tumors for malignant transformation and response to treatment. Penetration of the OCT beam remains a limitation for highly pigmented tumors, as does the inability to image the entire iris in a single field. PMID:27856029

Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Characteristics of Iris Melanocytic Tumors.

PubMed

Skalet, Alison H; Li, Yan; Lu, Chen D; Jia, Yali; Lee, ByungKun; Husvogt, Lennart; Maier, Andreas; Fujimoto, James G; Thomas, Charles R; Huang, David

2017-02-01

To evaluate tumor vasculature with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in malignant iris melanomas and benign iris lesions. Cross-sectional observational clinical study. Patients with iris lesions and healthy volunteers. Eyes were imaged using OCTA systems operating at 1050- and 840-nm wavelengths. Three-dimensional OCTA scans were acquired. Iris melanoma patients treated with radiation therapy were imaged again after I-125 plaque brachytherapy at 6 and 18 months. OCT and OCTA images, qualitative evaluation of iris and tumor vasculature, and quantitative vessel density. One eye each of 8 normal volunteers and 9 patients with iris melanomas or benign iris lesions, including freckles, nevi, and an iris pigment epithelial (IPE) cyst, were imaged. The normal iris has radially oriented vessels within the stroma on OCTA. Penetration of flow signal in normal iris depended on iris color, with best penetration seen in light to moderately pigmented irides. Iris melanomas demonstrated tortuous and disorganized intratumoral vasculature. In 2 eyes with nevi there was no increased vascularity; in another, fine vascular loops were noted near an area of ectropion uveae. Iris freckles and the IPE cyst did not have intrinsic vascularity. The vessel density was significantly higher within iris melanomas (34.5%±9.8%, P < 0.05) than in benign iris nevi (8.0%±1.4%) or normal irides (8.0%±1.2%). Tumor regression after radiation therapy for melanomas was associated with decreased vessel density. OCTA at 1050 nm provided better visualization of tumor vasculature and penetration through thicker tumors than at 840 nm. But in very thick tumors and highly pigmented lesions even 1050-nm OCTA could not visualize their full thickness. Interpretable OCTA images were obtained in 82% of participants in whom imaging was attempted. This is the first demonstration of OCTA in iris tumors. OCTA may provide a dye-free, no-injection, cost-effective method for monitoring a variety of tumors, including iris melanocytic lesions, for growth and vascularity. This could be helpful in evaluating tumors for malignant transformation and response to treatment. Penetration of the OCT beam remains a limitation for highly pigmented tumors, as does the inability to image the entire iris in a single field. Copyright © 2016 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Iris reconstruction using autologous iris preserved in cold balanced salt solution for 8 hours in iatrogenic total iridodialysis during cataract surgery: a case report.

PubMed

Bang, Seung Pil; Jun, Jong Hwa

2017-04-04

A large iris defect or extensive iridodialysis can be an intractable cause of visual disturbance, photophobia, glare, monocular diplopia, or cosmetic deformity. The implantation of an artificial iris substitute could be an effective option, but this can cause a reduction in endothelial cell density. We succeeded in the anatomical restoration of iris tissue that was totally dialyzed out of the eye, and was preserved in cold balanced salt solution for 8 h. Engrafted iris tissue was maintained within the aqueous humor. A 71-year-old man was referred to our clinic for management of an iatrogenic total iridodialysis. The totally dialyzed iris tissue was immediately preserved in sterile cold balanced salt solution and packed in a sterile biopsy bottle that was surrounded with ice cubes. Under general anesthesia, a pars plana vitrectomy was performed to remove the remaining lens cortex and vitreous fiber anterior to the equator. A sulcus-positioned intraocular lens (IOL) was repositioned and fixed by ab externo scleral sutures. Preserved iris tissue was inserted and ironed using both iris spatula and ocular viscoelastic devices. Five-point ab interno scleral sutures were made 1.0 mm posterior to the limbus. The engrafted iris was successfully maintained for 6 months and did not undergo any atrophic change or depigmentation, which may be caused by primary implantation failure due to a blocked blood supply.

Outcomes Associated With Concurrent Iris-Sutured Intraocular Lens Placement and Subluxated Crystalline Lens Extraction.

PubMed

McClellan, Scott F; Soiberman, Uri; Gehlbach, Peter L; Murakami, Peter N; Stark, Walter J

2015-08-01

We have developed a novel surgical technique, to our knowledge, for the management of subluxated crystalline lenses involving preplacement of an iris-sutured posterior chamber intraocular lens (PCIOL) before pars plana vitrectomy and lensectomy. To investigate the outcomes of eyes with subluxated crystalline lenses, predominantly a result of Marfan syndrome (14 eyes [58%]) or trauma (5 eyes [21%]), that underwent pars plana vitrectomy and lensectomy with placement of an iris-sutured PCIOL. We performed a retrospective, noncomparative case series of 24 eyes from 17 consecutive adult patients with surgically treated subluxated crystalline lenses presenting to the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins Hospital from October 6, 2006, through May 1, 2013. The mean (SD) postoperative follow-up was 24.4 (20.5) months for eyes with at least 6 months of follow-up (last date, October 13, 2014). We performed the analysis from January 21, 2014, through January 3, 2015. Improvement in best-corrected visual acuity using an automated Snellen chart and induction of astigmatism for eyes with at least 6 months of follow-up (n = 18) and IOL stability during follow-up for all eyes (n = 24). The mean (SD) age at surgery was 49.4 (10.7 [range, 29-67]) years. We found an improvement in mean (SD [95% CI]) best-corrected visual acuity from 0.66 (0.71 [0.30-1.02]) logMAR preoperatively (Snellen equivalent, approximately 20/90; range, 20/30 to hand motions) to 0.07 (0.11 [95% CI, 0.01-0.12]) logMAR postoperatively (Snellen equivalent, approximately 20/23; range, 20/15 to 20/50). We found little change in astigmatism postoperatively (mean change, -0.1 [95% CI, -0.5 to 0.13] diopters). Postoperative complications included retinal detachment (1 eye [4%]), retained cortical fragment (1 [4%]), cystoid macular edema (2 [8%]), and IOL subluxation (3 [13%]) owing to haptic slippage within 3 months of the procedure. The overall probability of successfully achieving placement of a centered iris-sutured PCIOL in patients with follow-up of longer than 6 months (n = 18) was 100% (95% CI, 81.5%-100%). Placement of iris-sutured PCIOLs at the time of subluxated lens extraction with a pars plana surgical approach yields favorable results in terms of postoperative visual outcomes and surgical complications. This technique offers an effective procedure for surgeons to use when treating clinically significant subluxated crystalline lenses.

Middle Grade Students of Iris County: A Descriptive Study from Southern Appalachia.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Phelps, Margaret S.; And Others

Sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students (N=301) from a rural county in Tennessee (Iris County is a pseudonym) completed a Rural School Success Inventory (RSSI) and the Learning Styles Inventory (LSI). The study explored differences between low Socioeconomic Status (SES) students and middle/high SES students. The RSSI provided information about…

The effects of tamsulosin and alfuzosin on iris morphology: an ultrasound biomicroscopic comparison.

PubMed

Aktas, Zeynep; Yuksel, Nilay; Ceylan, Gurhan; Polat, Fazli; Hasanreisoglu, Murat; Hasanreisoglu, Berati

2015-03-01

It is well known that Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor antagonists affect the receptors in the prostate and also iris dilator muscle, leading to loss of iris muscle tone. To compare morphological alterations of iris secondary to tamsulosin and alfuzosin use. Patients included in the study were grouped as follows: 16 patients treated with tamsulosin (Group 1), 14 patients treated with alfuzosin (Group 2) and 18 untreated controls (Group 3). All patients underwent ultrasound biomicroscopic and pupillometric examination. Iris thickness was measured at the dilator muscle region (DMR; measured at half of the distance between the scleral spur and the pupillary margin) and sphincter muscle region (SMR; Standardized at 0.75 mm from the pupillary margin). DMR/SMR was also calculated for each patient. Differences among groups were analysed. Main outcome measures were DMR, SMR, DMR/SMR and pupillary diameter. Mean duration of treatments were 2.4 ± 0.96 years (1-4) and 2.3 ± 1.01 years (1-4) in Groups 1 and 2. Pupillary diameters were reduced in Groups 1-2 compared to Group 3 (p < 0.001, p < 0.001). The SMR was similar in Groups 1 and 2 (p: 0.114). These values were not significantly different from that of Group 3 (p: 0.196, p: 0.209). However, thickness in the DMR in Groups 1-2 were significantly lower than that of controls (Group 3) whereas there was no significant difference between Groups 1 and 2 (p: 0.041, p: 0.039 and 0.986, respectively). Mean DMR/SMR ratios were significantly lower in Groups 1-2 than that of Group 3 (p: 0.040 and p: 0.040, respectively). In patients using these medications, the iris seems to be thinner at the dilator muscle region, but preserving the sphincter muscle region.

Acceptance and effects of a therapeutic renal food in pet cats with chronic kidney disease

PubMed Central

Fritsch, Dale A; Jewell, Dennis E

2015-01-01

Introduction Renal foods are used to manage chronic kidney disease (CKD) in dogs and cats, but their effectiveness may be limited by the ability to transition animals to them. Material and Methods In a prospective study, pet cats with previously undiagnosed kidney disease (20 International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) 1, 61 IRIS 2, 14 IRIS 3/4, 33 at risk for CKD) were transitioned to a renal food. Markers of renal function were measured and owners answered questionnaires about their pet over one year. Results All but eight cats (120/128; 94 per cent) successfully transitioned to the renal food. Most of the time, cats moderately or extremely liked the food (89 per cent), ate at least half (73 per cent) and were moderately or extremely enthusiastic while eating (68 per cent). Cats rarely disliked the food (2 per cent) or refused to eat it (1 per cent). Markers of renal function were unchanged in IRIS 1 and 2 cats and changed little in IRIS 3/4 cats. In all groups, owner-assessed quality of life improved initially and then remained stable. Mean bodyweight did not change in cats with CKD. Conclusions Most cats with CKD successfully transitioned to the renal food. The results also support previous studies that the renal food can help stabilise cats with CKD. PMID:26587240

Test of the Practicality and Feasibility of EDoF-Empowered Image Sensors for Long-Range Biometrics

PubMed Central

Hsieh, Sheng-Hsun; Li, Yung-Hui; Tien, Chung-Hao

2016-01-01

For many practical applications of image sensors, how to extend the depth-of-field (DoF) is an important research topic; if successfully implemented, it could be beneficial in various applications, from photography to biometrics. In this work, we want to examine the feasibility and practicability of a well-known “extended DoF” (EDoF) technique, or “wavefront coding,” by building real-time long-range iris recognition and performing large-scale iris recognition. The key to the success of long-range iris recognition includes long DoF and image quality invariance toward various object distance, which is strict and harsh enough to test the practicality and feasibility of EDoF-empowered image sensors. Besides image sensor modification, we also explored the possibility of varying enrollment/testing pairs. With 512 iris images from 32 Asian people as the database, 400-mm focal length and F/6.3 optics over 3 m working distance, our results prove that a sophisticated coding design scheme plus homogeneous enrollment/testing setups can effectively overcome the blurring caused by phase modulation and omit Wiener-based restoration. In our experiments, which are based on 3328 iris images in total, the EDoF factor can achieve a result 3.71 times better than the original system without a loss of recognition accuracy. PMID:27897976

Dendritic cells tolerized with adenosine A2AR agonist attenuate acute kidney injury

PubMed Central

Li, Li; Huang, Liping; Ye, Hong; Song, Steven P.; Bajwa, Amandeep; Lee, Sang Ju; Moser, Emily K.; Jaworska, Katarzyna; Kinsey, Gilbert R.; Day, Yuan J.; Linden, Joel; Lobo, Peter I.; Rosin, Diane L.; Okusa, Mark D.

2012-01-01

DC-mediated NKT cell activation is critical in initiating the immune response following kidney ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI), which mimics human acute kidney injury (AKI). Adenosine is an important antiinflammatory molecule in tissue inflammation, and adenosine 2A receptor (A2AR) agonists protect kidneys from IRI through their actions on leukocytes. In this study, we showed that mice with A2AR-deficient DCs are more susceptible to kidney IRI and are not protected from injury by A2AR agonists. In addition, administration of DCs treated ex vivo with an A2AR agonist protected the kidneys of WT mice from IRI by suppressing NKT production of IFN-γ and by regulating DC costimulatory molecules that are important for NKT cell activation. A2AR agonists had no effect on DC antigen presentation or on Tregs. We conclude that ex vivo A2AR–induced tolerized DCs suppress NKT cell activation in vivo and provide a unique and potent cell-based strategy to attenuate organ IRI. PMID:23093781

PROTECTIVE EFFECT OF IRIS GERMANICA L. IN Β-AMYLOID-INDUCED ANIMAL MODEL OF ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE.

PubMed

Borhani, Mona; Sharifzadeh, Mohammad; Farzaei, Mohammad Hosein; Narimani, Zahra; Sabbaghziarani, Fatemeh; Gholami, Mahdi; Rahimi, Roja

2017-01-01

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia that is an irretrievable chronic neurodegenerative disease. In the current study, we have examined the therapeutic effects of Iris germanica extract on Amyloid β (Aβ) induced memory impairment. Wistar rats were divided into five groups of 8 per each. Groups were as followed: control group which were normal rats without induction of AD, Aβ group which received Aβ (50 ng/side), iris 100 group which received Aβ + Iris (100 mg/kg), iris 200 group which received Aβ + Iris (200 mg/kg), and iris 400 group which received Aβ + Iris (400 mg/kg). AD was established by intrahippocampal injection of 50 ng/μl/side Aβ1-42. The day after surgery, animals in treatment groups received different doses of the aqueous extract of Iris by gavage for 30 days. Morris water maze test (MWM) was performed to assess the effects of I. germanica on learning and memory of rats with Aβ induced AD. Data from MWM tests, including escape latency and traveled distance, demonstrated that I. germanica extract could markedly improve spatial memory in comparison to control. Moreover, the plant had a significantly better effect on the performance of AD rats in the probe test. I. germanica extract can successfully reverse spatial learning dysfunction in an experimental model of AD. Further neuro psyco-pharmacological studies are mandatory to reveal the mechanism of action of this natural remedy in the management of AD symptoms.

Evaluation of treatment in the Smart Home IRIS in terms of functional independence and occupational performance and satisfaction.

PubMed

Ocepek, Julija; Roberts, Anne E K; Vidmar, Gaj

2013-01-01

The development of assistive technologies, home modifications, and smart homes has rapidly advanced in the last two decades. Health professionals have recognised the benefits of these technologies in improving individual's quality of life. The Smart Home IRIS was established in 2008 within the University Rehabilitation Institute in Ljubljana with the aim to enable persons with disabilities and elderly people to test various assistive technologies and technical solutions for their independent living. We investigated the effect of treatments in the Smart Home IRIS. A convenience sample of 59 persons with disabilities and elderly people (aged 24-81 years) who were treated in the Smart Home IRIS from April to December 2011 participated. Standardised instruments--the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) and the Functional Independence Measure (FIM)--were administered at the first assessment in the Smart Home IRIS and at a second assessment at the participant's home after 6-12 months. All the outcomes statistically significantly improved from the first to the second assessment. The treatments in the Smart Home IRIS appeared to contribute to higher occupational performance and satisfaction with performance and higher functional independence of persons with disabilities and elderly people.

Evaluation of Treatment in the Smart Home IRIS in terms of Functional Independence and Occupational Performance and Satisfaction

PubMed Central

Ocepek, Julija; Roberts, Anne E. K.; Vidmar, Gaj

2013-01-01

The development of assistive technologies, home modifications, and smart homes has rapidly advanced in the last two decades. Health professionals have recognised the benefits of these technologies in improving individual's quality of life. The Smart Home IRIS was established in 2008 within the University Rehabilitation Institute in Ljubljana with the aim to enable persons with disabilities and elderly people to test various assistive technologies and technical solutions for their independent living. We investigated the effect of treatments in the Smart Home IRIS. A convenience sample of 59 persons with disabilities and elderly people (aged 24–81 years) who were treated in the Smart Home IRIS from April to December 2011 participated. Standardised instruments—the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) and the Functional Independence Measure (FIM)—were administered at the first assessment in the Smart Home IRIS and at a second assessment at the participant's home after 6–12 months. All the outcomes statistically significantly improved from the first to the second assessment. The treatments in the Smart Home IRIS appeared to contribute to higher occupational performance and satisfaction with performance and higher functional independence of persons with disabilities and elderly people. PMID:24348748

Aquatic Plant/microbial Filters for Treating Septic Tank Effluent

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wolverton, B. C.

1988-01-01

The use of natural biological processes for treating many types of wastewater have been developed by NASA at the John C. Stennis Space Center, NSTL, Mississippi, during the past 15 years. The simplest form of this technology involves the use of aquatic plant/marsh filters for treatment of septic tank effluent. Septic tank effluent from single home units can be treated to advanced secondary levels and beyond by using a 37.2 sq m (400 sq ft) surface area washed gravel filter. This filter is generally 0.3 m (1 ft) deep with a surface cover of approximately 0.15 m (6 in.) of gravel. The plants in this filter are usually aesthetic or ornamental such as calla lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica), canna lily (Canna flaccida), elephant ear (Colocasia esculenta), and water iris (Iris pseudacorus).

A Novel Anti-Spoofing Solution for Iris Recognition Toward Cosmetic Contact Lens Attack Using Spectral ICA Analysis.

PubMed

Hsieh, Sheng-Hsun; Li, Yung-Hui; Wang, Wei; Tien, Chung-Hao

2018-03-06

In this study, we maneuvered a dual-band spectral imaging system to capture an iridal image from a cosmetic-contact-lens-wearing subject. By using the independent component analysis to separate individual spectral primitives, we successfully distinguished the natural iris texture from the cosmetic contact lens (CCL) pattern, and restored the genuine iris patterns from the CCL-polluted image. Based on a database containing 200 test image pairs from 20 CCL-wearing subjects as the proof of concept, the recognition accuracy (False Rejection Rate: FRR) was improved from FRR = 10.52% to FRR = 0.57% with the proposed ICA anti-spoofing scheme.

Proton therapy detector studies under the experience gained at the CATANA facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cuttone, G.; Cirrone, G. A. P.; Di Rosa, F.; Lojacono, P. A.; Lo Nigro, S.; Marino, C.; Mongelli, V.; Patti, I. V.; Pittera, S.; Raffaele, L.; Russo, G.; Sabini, M. G.; Salamone, V.; Valastro, L. M.

2007-10-01

Proton therapy represents the most promising radiotherapy technique for external tumor treatments. At Laboratori Nazionali del Sud of the Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare (INFN-LNS), Catania (I), a proton therapy facility is active since March 2002 and 140 patients, mainly affected by choroidal and iris melanoma, have been successfully treated. Proton beams are characterized by higher dose gradients and linear energy transfer with respect to the conventional photon and electron beams, commonly used in medical centers for radiotherapy.In this paper, we report the experience gained in the characterization of different dosimetric systems, studied and/or developed during the last ten years in our proton therapy facility.

N-acetylcysteine attenuates reactive-oxygen-species-mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress during liver ischemia-reperfusion injury

PubMed Central

Sun, Yong; Pu, Li-Yong; Lu, Ling; Wang, Xue-Hao; Zhang, Feng; Rao, Jian-Hua

2014-01-01

AIM: To investigate the effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and tissue injury during liver ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI). METHODS: Mice were injected with NAC (300 mg/kg) intraperitoneally 2 h before ischemia. Real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting determined ER stress molecules (GRP78, ATF4 and CHOP). To analyze the role of NAC in reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated ER stress and apoptosis, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was examined in cultured hepatocytes treated by H2O2 or thapsigargin (TG). RESULTS: NAC treatment significantly reduced the level of ROS and attenuated ROS-induced liver injury after IRI, based on glutathione, malondialdehyde, serum alanine aminotransferase levels, and histopathology. ROS-mediated ER stress was significantly inhibited in NAC-treated mice. In addition, NAC treatment significantly reduced caspase-3 activity and apoptosis after reperfusion, which correlated with the protein expression of Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl. Similarly, NAC treatment significantly inhibited LDH release from hepatocytes treated by H2O2 or TG. CONCLUSION: This study provides new evidence for the protective effects of NAC treatment on hepatocytes during IRI. Through inhibition of ROS-mediated ER stress, NAC may be critical to inhibit the ER-stress-related apoptosis pathway. PMID:25386077

Comparison between the Juno Earth flyby magnetic measurements and the magnetometer package on the IRIS solar observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Merayo, J. M.; Connerney, J. E.; Joergensen, J. L.; Dougherty, B.

2013-12-01

In October 2013 the NASA's Juno New Frontier spacecraft will perform an Earth Flyby Gravity Assist. During this flyby, Juno will reach an altitude of about 600 km and the magnetometer experiment will measure the magnetic field with very high precision. In June 2013 the NASA's IRIS solar observatory was successfully launched. IRIS uses a very fine guiding telescope in order to maintain a high pointing accuracy, assisted by a very high accuracy star tracker and a science grade vector magnetometer. IRIS was placed into a Sun-synchronous orbit at about 600 km altitude by a Pegasus rocket from the Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. This platform will also allow to performing measurements of the Earth's magnetic field with very high precision, since it carries similar instrumentation as on the Swarm satellites (star trackers and magnetometer). The data recorded by the Juno magnetic experiment and the IRIS magnetometer will bring a very exciting opportunity for comparing the two experiments as well as for determining current structures during the flyby.

Role of LTA4H Polymorphism in Tuberculosis-Associated Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome Occurrence and Clinical Severity in Patients Infected with HIV.

PubMed

Narendran, Gopalan; Kavitha, Dhanasekaran; Karunaianantham, Ramesh; Gil-Santana, Leonardo; Almeida-Junior, Jilson L; Reddy, Sirasanambatti Devarajulu; Kumar, Marimuthu Makesh; Hemalatha, Haribabu; Jayanthi, Nagesh Nalini; Ravichandran, Narayanan; Krishnaraja, Raja; Prabhakar, Angamuthu; Manoharan, Tamizhselvan; Nithyananthan, Lokeswaran; Arjunan, Gunasundari; Natrajan, Mohan; Swaminathan, Soumya; Andrade, Bruno B

2016-01-01

Paradoxical tuberculosis-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (TB-IRIS) is an inflammatory phenomenon complicating HIV management in coincidental tuberculosis (TB) infection, upon immune reconstitution driven by antiretroviral therapy (ART). Leukotriene A4 hydroxylase (LTA4H), an enzyme which converts LTA4 to LTB4, regulates the balance between the anti-inflammatory lipoxins and pro-inflammatory LTB4, with direct implications in TB-driven inflammation. In humans, a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the LTA4H promoter which regulates its transcriptional activity (rs17525495) has been identified and described to impact clinical severity of TB presentation and response to corticosteroid therapy. Notably, the role of LTA4H on TB-IRIS has not been previously evaluated. Here, we performed an exploratory investigation testing the association of LTA4H polymorphism with respect to frequency of TB-IRIS occurrence and severity of TB-IRIS presentation in HIV-TB co-infected individuals. Genotypic evaluation of the LTA4H enzyme from available samples was retrospectively correlated with clinical data captured in case sheets including IRIS details. The cohort included patients recruited from a prospective cohort study nested within a randomized clinical trial (NCT0933790) of ART-naïve HIV+ patients with newly diagnosed rifampicin sensitive pulmonary TB in South India. Frequency of the wild type genotype (CC), as well as of the mutant genotypes (CT or TT) in the IRIS and non-IRIS patients was estimated. Comparative analyses were performed between wild genotype (CC) and the mutant genotypes (CT or TT) and tested for association between the LTA4H polymorphisms and IRIS incidence and clinical severity. A total of 142 eligible ART-naïve patients were included in the analyses. Eighty-six individuals exhibited the wild genotype (CC) while 56 had mutant genotypes (43-CT and only 13-TT). Variant allele frequency was 0.23 and 0.26 in non-IRIS group and in IRIS group, respectively. Upon ART initiation, 51 patients developed IRIS while 91 did not. IRIS incidence was 34% and 37% in the wild (CC) and mutant type (CT/TT), respectively (p = 0.858) with a higher frequency of severe IRIS presentation in the mutant genotype group compared to the wild type genotype (p = 0.0006). A logistic regression model confirmed the association between the presence of CT/TT genotypes and occurrence of severe IRIS. Corticosteroid therapy successfully resolved IRIS in all cases irrespective of the LTA4H genotype. A higher incidence of severe IRIS among patients with mutant LTA4H genotypes (CT and TT) was observed compared to the wild type, despite similar IRIS incidence and immune restoration in both groups. Steroids were effective in alleviating IRIS in all the genotypes.

A Novel Anti-Spoofing Solution for Iris Recognition Toward Cosmetic Contact Lens Attack Using Spectral ICA Analysis

PubMed Central

Hsieh, Sheng-Hsun; Wang, Wei; Tien, Chung-Hao

2018-01-01

In this study, we maneuvered a dual-band spectral imaging system to capture an iridal image from a cosmetic-contact-lens-wearing subject. By using the independent component analysis to separate individual spectral primitives, we successfully distinguished the natural iris texture from the cosmetic contact lens (CCL) pattern, and restored the genuine iris patterns from the CCL-polluted image. Based on a database containing 200 test image pairs from 20 CCL-wearing subjects as the proof of concept, the recognition accuracy (False Rejection Rate: FRR) was improved from FRR = 10.52% to FRR = 0.57% with the proposed ICA anti-spoofing scheme. PMID:29509692

BRCA1-IRIS Overexpression Promotes Formation of Aggressive Breast Cancers

PubMed Central

Shimizu, Yoshiko; Luk, Hugh; Horio, David; Miron, Penelope; Griswold, Michael; Iglehart, Dirk; Hernandez, Brenda; Killeen, Jeffrey; ElShamy, Wael M.

2012-01-01

Introduction Women with HER2+ or triple negative/basal-like (TN/BL) breast cancers succumb to their cancer rapidly due, in part to acquired Herceptin resistance and lack of TN/BL-targeted therapies. BRCA1-IRIS is a recently discovered, 1399 residue, BRCA1 locus alternative product, which while sharing 1365 residues with the full-length product of this tumor suppressor gene, BRCA1/p220, it has oncoprotein-like properties. Here, we examine whether BRCA1-IRIS is a valuable treatment target for HER2+ and/or TN/BL tumors. Methodology/Principal Findings Immunohistochemical staining of large cohort of human breast tumor samples using new monoclonal anti-BRCA1-IRIS antibody, followed by correlation of BRCA1-IRIS expression with that of AKT1, AKT2, p-AKT, survivin and BRCA1/p220, tumor status and age at diagnosis. Generation of subcutaneous tumors in SCID mice using human mammary epithelial (HME) cells overexpressing TERT/LT/BRCA1-IRIS, followed by comparing AKT, survivin, and BRCA1/p220 expression, tumor status and aggressiveness in these tumors to that in tumors developed using TERT/LT/RasV12-overexpressing HME cells. Induction of primary and invasive rat mammary tumors using the carcinogen N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (NMU), followed by analysis of rat BRCA1-IRIS and ERα mRNA levels in these tumors. High BRCA1-IRIS expression was detected in the majority of human breast tumors analyzed, which was positively correlated with that of AKT1-, AKT2-, p-AKT-, survivin, but negatively with BRCA1/p220 expression. BRCA1-IRIS-positivity induced high-grade, early onset and metastatic HER2+ or TN/BL tumors. TERT/LT/BRCA1-IRIS overexpressing HME cells formed invasive subcutaneous tumors that express high AKT1, AKT2, p-AKT and vimentin, but no CK19, p63 or BRCA1/p220. NMU-induced primary and invasive rat breast cancers expressed high levels of rat BRCA1-IRIS mRNA but low levels of rat ERα mRNA. Conclusion/Significance BRCA1-IRIS overexpression triggers aggressive breast tumor formation, especially in patients with HER2+ or TN/BL subtypes. We propose that BRCA1-IRIS inhibition may be pursued as a novel therapeutic option to treat these aggressive breast tumor subtypes. PMID:22511931

Quality-adjusted survival with combination nal-IRI+5-FU/LV vs 5-FU/LV alone in metastatic pancreatic cancer patients previously treated with gemcitabine-based therapy: a Q-TWiST analysis.

PubMed

Pelzer, Uwe; Blanc, Jean-Frédéric; Melisi, Davide; Cubillo, Antonio; Von Hoff, Daniel D; Wang-Gillam, Andrea; Chen, Li-Tzong; Siveke, Jens T; Wan, Yin; Solem, Caitlyn T; Botteman, Marc F; Yang, Yoojung; de Jong, Floris A; Hubner, Richard A

2017-05-09

In the NAPOLI-1 Phase 3 trial, nal-IRI+5-fluorouracil and leucovorin (5-FU/LV) significantly improved median overall survival (6.1 vs 4.2 months, P=0.012) and progression-free survival (3.1 vs 1.5 months, P=0.0001) vs 5-FU/LV alone in metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma patients previously treated with gemcitabine-based therapy. This analysis evaluated between treatment differences in quality-adjusted time without symptoms of disease progression or toxicity (Q-TWiST). Overall survival was partitioned into time with grade ⩾3 toxicity (TOX), disease progression (REL), and time without disease progression symptoms or grade ⩾3 toxicity (TWiST). Mean Q-TWiST was calculated by weighting time spent by a utility of 1.0 for TWiST and 0.5 for TOX and REL. In threshold analyses, utility for TOX and REL were varied from 0.0 to 1.0. Patients in nal-IRI+5-FU/LV (n=117) vs 5-FU/LV (n=119) had significantly more mean time in TWiST (3.4 vs 2.4 months) and TOX (1.0 vs 0.3 months) but similar REL (2.5 vs 2.7 months). In the base case, nal-IRI+5-FU/LV patients had 1.3 months (95% CI, 0.4-2.1; 5.1 vs 3.9) greater Q-TWiST (threshold analyses range: 0.9-1.6 months). Within NAPOLI-1, nal-IRI+5-FU/LV resulted in statistically significant and clinically meaningful gains in quality-adjusted survival vs 5-FU/LV alone.

Use of Ruthenium-106 Brachytherapy for Iris Melanoma: The Scottish Experience.

PubMed

Agraval, Umiya; Sobti, Manvi; Russell, Heather C; Lockington, David; Ritchie, Diana; Cauchi, Paul; Kemp, Ewan G; Chadha, Vikas

2018-01-01

To analyse long-term outcomes of ruthenium-106 ( 106 Ru) plaque brachytherapy for the treatment of iris melanoma. We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 19 consecutive patients with pure iris melanoma treated with 106 Ru plaque brachytherapy between 1998 and 2016 at the Scottish Ophthalmic Oncology Service, Glasgow. The iris melanoma was treated with a ruthenium plaque placed on the corneal surface to deliver a surface dose of 555 Gy. We analysed vision preservation, local tumour control, radiation-related complications, eye retention rates, symptomatic metastasis and melanoma-related mortality. The mean largest basal diameter of the lesions was 3.50±1.42 mm (range 1.6-6.5 mm), and the mean maximum height was 1.47±0.65 mm (range 0.7-2.8 mm). The tumour control and eye retention were 100% at a mean follow-up of 62 months (range 6-195 months). A 62% reduction in tumour height was observed on ultrasonography. Complications included cataract (68%), dry eye (47%), uveitis (37%) and scleral thinning (5%). At the final follow-up visit, the mean loss of Snellen visual acuity was 1.11±2.90 lines and vision of 6/9 or better was maintained in 53% of patients. None of the patients had evidence of symptomatic metastasis (non-imaged) or melanoma-related mortality. 106 Ru plaque treatment for iris melanoma was highly effective a high tumour control, no tumour recurrences and a relatively a low complication rate. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Uneventful Anterior Migration of Intravitreal Ozurdex Implant in a Patient with Iris-Sutured Intraocular Lens and Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty.

PubMed

Zafar, Andleeb; Aslanides, Ioannis M; Selimis, Vasileios; Tsoulnaras, Konstantinos I; Tabibian, David; Kymionis, George D

2018-01-01

We report here the case of a patient with anterior segment migration of intravitreal dexamethasone implant as well as its management and outcome. The patient had the following sequence of events: complicated cataract surgery, iris-sutured intraocular lens implant, followed by cystoid macular edema treated with intravitreal Avastin, retinal vein occlusion treated with intravitreal dexamethasone implant, corneal decompensation treated with Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK), and finally recurrence of macular edema treated with repeated intravitreal dexamethasone implant. Dexamethasone implant had completely dissolved from the eye 12 weeks after insertion without any complication. A conservative approach with regular monitoring in the situation of a quiet anterior segment without any corneal decompensation can provide enough time for the implant to dissolve without causing any complication to the involved eye, avoiding any additional surgical intervention, as presented in this case report. Despite the fact that the implant was left for natural dissolution, there were no adverse effects related to the graft or the eye.

A Novel Technique of a Transcorneal Suture to Manage an Iris Tuck into the Tube of a Glaucoma Drainage Device.

PubMed

Kataria, Pankaj; Kaushik, Sushmita; Singh, Simar R; Pandav, Surinder S

2016-08-01

Glaucoma drainage devices create an alternative pathway of aqueous drainage from the anterior chamber by channelling aqueous out of the eye through a tube to a subconjunctival bleb or the suprachoroidal space. They may be associated with a number of potential complications including tube malpositioning. This malpositioning may have serious sequelae such as corneal endothelial damage, chronic iritis, tube iris touch, cataract formation, or tube occlusion. Occlusion of the mouth of the tube by the iris impedes aqueous drainage and results in the failure of intraocular pressure (IOP) control. Tube repositioning in cases of occlusion of the mouth of the tube by the iris often involves extensive and potentially complicated surgery requiring tube removal and reinsertion. We describe a new minimally invasive surgical technique for correcting posterior tube malposition resulting in tube occlusion by the iris. The iris had occluded the tube of a Baerveldt prototype glaucoma drainage devices and caused an intractable increased IOP. After our tube sling suture, the tube was free, and the IOP normalized. The procedure entailed no difficult dissection or major surgical intervention. The technique is illustrated by a surgical video. This novel technique is a simple method that relieved the occlusion successfully, and avoided the need to redissect the conjunctiva or shorten the tube.

The effects of VEGF-A-inhibitors aflibercept and ranibizumab on the ciliary body and iris of monkeys.

PubMed

Ludinsky, Maximilian; Christner, Sarah; Su, Nan; Taubitz, Tatjana; Tschulakow, Alexander; Biesemeier, Antje; Julien-Schraermeyer, Sylvie; Schraermeyer, Ulrich

2016-06-01

To investigate the effects of intravitreal ranibizumab (Lucentis®) and aflibercept (Eylea®) on the ciliary body and the iris of 12 cynomolgus monkeys with regard to the fenestrations of their blood vessels. Structural changes in the ciliary body and in the iris were investigated with light, fluorescent, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The latter was used to specifically quantify fenestrations of the endothelium of blood vessels after treatment with aflibercept and ranibizumab. Each of the two ciliary bodies treated with aflibercept and the two treated with ranibizumab and their controls were examined after 1 and 7 days respectively. Ophthalmological investigations including funduscopy and intraocular pressure measurements were also applied. Ophthalmological investigations did not reveal any changes within the groups. Both drugs reduced the VEGF concentration in the ciliary body pigmented epithelium. The structure of the ciliary body was not influenced, while the posterior pigmented epithelium of the iris showed vacuoles after aflibercept treatment. Ranibizumab was mainly concentrated on the surface layer of the ciliary epithelium, in the blood vessel walls and the lumen of some of the blood vessels, and in the cells of the epithelium of the ciliary body. Aflibercept was more concentrated in the stroma and not in the cells of the epithelium, but as with ranibizumab, also in the blood vessel walls and some of their lumina, and again on the surface layer of the epithelium. Both aflibercept-and ranibizumab-treated eyes showed a decreased number of fenestrations of the capillaries in the ciliary body compared to the untreated controls. On day 1 and day 7, aflibercept had fewer fenestrations than the ranibizumab samples of the same day. Both aflibercept and ranibizumab were found to reach the blood vessel walls of the ciliary body, and effectively reduced their fenestrations. Aflibercept might eliminate VEGF to a greater extent, possibly due to a higher elimination of fenestrations in a shorter time. Moreover, the vacuoles found in the iris need further research, in order to evaluate whether they carry a possible pathological potential.

Lack of Radiation Maculopathy After Palladium-103 Plaque Radiotherapy for Iris Melanoma

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yousef, Yacoub A.; Finger, Paul T., E-mail: pfinger@eyecancer.com

2012-07-15

Purpose: To report on the risk of radiation maculopathy for iris and iridociliary melanomas treated by {sup 103}Pd plaque radiotherapy. Methods and Materials: This is a retrospective clinical case series of 30 eyes in 30 patients with melanomas limited to the iris or invading the ciliary body. The main outcome measures included demographic information, laterality, tumor size, location, visual acuity, radiation dose, local control, retinal evaluation, and duration of follow-up. Results: Thirty patients were followed for a median 36 months (range, 12-90 months). Sixteen of 30 tumors (53%) were pure iris melanomas, and 14 (47%) were primary iris melanomas extendingmore » into the ciliary body. Radiation dosimetry showed that the median tumor apex dose was 85 Gy (range, 75-100 Gy), lens dose 43.5 Gy (range, 17.8-60 Gy), fovea dose 1.8 Gy (range, 1.3-5 Gy), and central optic disc dose 1.7 Gy (range, 1.3-4.7 Gy). Cataracts developed in 20 of the 28 phakic eyes (71.4%). No patient in this series developed radiation maculopathy or radiation optic neuropathy. Last best-corrected visual acuity was {>=}20/25 in 28 patients (93%) at a median 36 months' follow-up. Conclusion: Though visual acuities were transiently affected by radiation cataract, no radiation maculopathy or optic neuropathy has been noted after {sup 103}Pd treatment of iris and iridociliary melanomas.« less

Role of LTA4H Polymorphism in Tuberculosis-Associated Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome Occurrence and Clinical Severity in Patients Infected with HIV

PubMed Central

Narendran, Gopalan; Kavitha, Dhanasekaran; Karunaianantham, Ramesh; Gil-Santana, Leonardo; Almeida-Junior, Jilson L.; Reddy, Sirasanambatti Devarajulu; Kumar, Marimuthu Makesh; Hemalatha, Haribabu; Jayanthi, Nagesh Nalini; Ravichandran, Narayanan; Krishnaraja, Raja; Prabhakar, Angamuthu; Manoharan, Tamizhselvan; Nithyananthan, Lokeswaran; Arjunan, Gunasundari; Natrajan, Mohan; Swaminathan, Soumya

2016-01-01

Background Paradoxical tuberculosis-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (TB-IRIS) is an inflammatory phenomenon complicating HIV management in coincidental tuberculosis (TB) infection, upon immune reconstitution driven by antiretroviral therapy (ART). Leukotriene A4 hydroxylase (LTA4H), an enzyme which converts LTA4 to LTB4, regulates the balance between the anti-inflammatory lipoxins and pro-inflammatory LTB4, with direct implications in TB-driven inflammation. In humans, a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the LTA4H promoter which regulates its transcriptional activity (rs17525495) has been identified and described to impact clinical severity of TB presentation and response to corticosteroid therapy. Notably, the role of LTA4H on TB-IRIS has not been previously evaluated. Here, we performed an exploratory investigation testing the association of LTA4H polymorphism with respect to frequency of TB-IRIS occurrence and severity of TB-IRIS presentation in HIV-TB co-infected individuals. Methods Genotypic evaluation of the LTA4H enzyme from available samples was retrospectively correlated with clinical data captured in case sheets including IRIS details. The cohort included patients recruited from a prospective cohort study nested within a randomized clinical trial (NCT0933790) of ART-naïve HIV+ patients with newly diagnosed rifampicin sensitive pulmonary TB in South India. Frequency of the wild type genotype (CC), as well as of the mutant genotypes (CT or TT) in the IRIS and non-IRIS patients was estimated. Comparative analyses were performed between wild genotype (CC) and the mutant genotypes (CT or TT) and tested for association between the LTA4H polymorphisms and IRIS incidence and clinical severity. Results A total of 142 eligible ART-naïve patients were included in the analyses. Eighty-six individuals exhibited the wild genotype (CC) while 56 had mutant genotypes (43-CT and only 13-TT). Variant allele frequency was 0.23 and 0.26 in non-IRIS group and in IRIS group, respectively. Upon ART initiation, 51 patients developed IRIS while 91 did not. IRIS incidence was 34% and 37% in the wild (CC) and mutant type (CT/TT), respectively (p = 0.858) with a higher frequency of severe IRIS presentation in the mutant genotype group compared to the wild type genotype (p = 0.0006). A logistic regression model confirmed the association between the presence of CT/TT genotypes and occurrence of severe IRIS. Corticosteroid therapy successfully resolved IRIS in all cases irrespective of the LTA4H genotype. Conclusion A higher incidence of severe IRIS among patients with mutant LTA4H genotypes (CT and TT) was observed compared to the wild type, despite similar IRIS incidence and immune restoration in both groups. Steroids were effective in alleviating IRIS in all the genotypes. PMID:27643598

Plateau Iris - Therapeutic options and functional results after treatment.

PubMed

Feraru, Crenguța; Bâlha, Andrei; Aursulesei, Victor; Filip, Andrei; Pantalon, Anca

2017-01-01

We present the therapeutic options and functional results in patients with plateau iris (syndrome or configuration) in consecutive case series. Material and method: Our study included newly diagnosed patients with acute angle closure by "plateau iris" (configuration or syndrome), between June 2016 and April 2017. Series of 8 consecutive patients met the inclusion criteria, all being females. All the patients underwent an individualized treatment according to the underlying mechanism and evolution. Functional results (visual acuity, IOP, topical medication) were reported in the current paper. Results: For 10 months, we diagnosed 14 eyes, from 9 patients with acute angle closure by Plateau Iris, distributed as it follows: 6 eyes with closed angle glaucoma (optic disk and visual field changes), 8 eyes with plateau iris syndrome and 2 eyes with plateau iris configuration. 7/ 8 patients were misdiagnosed with primary open angle glaucoma, whereas only one patient had the correct diagnosis of closed angle glaucoma and underwent peripheral laser iridotomy. As treatment options in our study, we recommended and performed argon laser peripheral iridoplasty + iridotomy in 10/ 14 eyes, cataract lens was extracted in 4 eyes and then replaced with PC-IOL, whereas 2 eyes required a filtering anti-glaucoma surgery (trabeculectomy + PI). 2 eyes from the same patient could not be treated as intended as the patient refused the treatment. In this unique case, Pilocarpine (4%) was temporarily indicated. Conclusion: Plateau iris represents a diagnostic trap, but based on a thorough gonioscopic examination and a good patient history, the right diagnosis can be made, all along with a correct therapeutic approach.

Ocular stem cells: a status update!

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Stem cells are unspecialized cells that have been a major focus of the field of regenerative medicine, opening new frontiers and regarded as the future of medicine. The ophthalmology branch of the medical sciences was the first to directly benefit from stem cells for regenerative treatment. The success stories of regenerative medicine in ophthalmology can be attributed to its accessibility, ease of follow-up and the eye being an immune-privileged organ. Cell-based therapies using stem cells from the ciliary body, iris and sclera are still in animal experimental stages but show potential for replacing degenerated photoreceptors. Limbal, corneal and conjunctival stem cells are still limited for use only for surface reconstruction, although they might have potential beyond this. Iris pigment epithelial, ciliary body epithelial and choroidal epithelial stem cells in laboratory studies have shown some promise for retinal or neural tissue replacement. Trabecular meshwork, orbital and sclera stem cells have properties identical to cells of mesenchymal origin but their potential has yet to be experimentally determined and validated. Retinal and retinal pigment epithelium stem cells remain the most sought out stem cells for curing retinal degenerative disorders, although treatments using them have resulted in variable outcomes. The functional aspects of the therapeutic application of lenticular stem cells are not known and need further attention. Recently, embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium has been used for treating patients with Stargardts disease and age-related macular degeneration. Overall, the different stem cells residing in different components of the eye have shown some success in clinical and animal studies in the field of regenerative medicine. PMID:25158127

Frontal view reconstruction for iris recognition

DOEpatents

Santos-Villalobos, Hector J; Bolme, David S; Boehnen, Chris Bensing

2015-02-17

Iris recognition can be accomplished for a wide variety of eye images by correcting input images with an off-angle gaze. A variety of techniques, from limbus modeling, corneal refraction modeling, optical flows, and genetic algorithms can be used. A variety of techniques, including aspherical eye modeling, corneal refraction modeling, ray tracing, and the like can be employed. Precomputed transforms can enhance performance for use in commercial applications. With application of the technologies, images with significantly unfavorable gaze angles can be successfully recognized.

Uneventful Anterior Migration of Intravitreal Ozurdex Implant in a Patient with Iris-Sutured Intraocular Lens and Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty

PubMed Central

Zafar, Andleeb; Aslanides, Ioannis M.; Selimis, Vasileios; Tsoulnaras, Konstantinos I.; Tabibian, David; Kymionis, George D.

2018-01-01

Purpose We report here the case of a patient with anterior segment migration of intravitreal dexamethasone implant as well as its management and outcome. Methods The patient had the following sequence of events: complicated cataract surgery, iris-sutured intraocular lens implant, followed by cystoid macular edema treated with intravitreal Avastin, retinal vein occlusion treated with intravitreal dexamethasone implant, corneal decompensation treated with Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK), and finally recurrence of macular edema treated with repeated intravitreal dexamethasone implant. Results Dexamethasone implant had completely dissolved from the eye 12 weeks after insertion without any complication. Conclusion A conservative approach with regular monitoring in the situation of a quiet anterior segment without any corneal decompensation can provide enough time for the implant to dissolve without causing any complication to the involved eye, avoiding any additional surgical intervention, as presented in this case report. Despite the fact that the implant was left for natural dissolution, there were no adverse effects related to the graft or the eye. PMID:29643797

Inhibition of monoamine oxidase A increases recovery after experimental cardiac arrest.

PubMed

Vuohelainen, Vilma; Hämäläinen, Mari; Paavonen, Timo; Karlsson, Sari; Moilanen, Eeva; Mennander, Ari

2015-10-01

Perioperative myocardial infarction (MI) with ischaemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a devastating entity occurring in 1-2% of patients after cardiac surgery. The molecular pathway leading to myocardial cellular destruction after MI may include monoamine oxidases. We experimentally investigated whether moclobemide, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, enhances myocardial recovery after cardiac arrest and MI. Fifty-six syngeneic Fischer rats underwent heterotopic cardiac transplantation to induce reversible IRI after cardiac arrest. Twenty-eight rats also underwent permanent ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery to induce MI after cardiac arrest. Twenty-eight rats with or without MI were treated with subcutaneous moclobemide 10 mg/kg/day. Methods used to study myocardial recovery were microdialysis for intramyocardial metabolism, histology and quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction for high-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1), haeme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), interleukin-6, hypoxia-inducible factor 1α and macrophages (CD68). Pyruvate increased in MI treated with moclobemide versus IRI with moclobemide (29.19 ± 7.64 vs 13.86 ± 8.49 µM, P = 0.028), reflecting metabolic activity after cardiac arrest and reperfusion. Myocardial inflammation increased in MI compared with IRI after 1 h (0.80 ± 0.56 vs 0, point score units [PSUs], P = 0.003), but decreased after 5 days in MI treated with moclobemide versus MI alone (0.80 ± 0.83 vs 2.00 ± 0.70, PSU, P = 0.033). Expressions of HMGB1, CD68 and HO-1 decreased in MI treated with moclobemide versus MI alone (1.33 ± 0.20 vs 1.75 ± 0.24, fold changes [FCs], P = 0.028; 5.15 ± 1.10 vs 9.59 ± 2.75, FC, P = 0.050; 10.41 ± 4.17 vs 21.28 ± 10.01, FC, P = 0.047), indicating myocardial recovery and increased cellularity of remote intramyocardial arteries. Moclobemide enhances myocardial recovery after cardiac arrest and MI; inhibition of remote myocardial changes may be achieved by targeting treatment against monoamine oxidase. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Dosimetric comparison between cone/Iris-based and InCise MLC-based CyberKnife plans for single and multiple brain metastases.

PubMed

Jang, Si Young; Lalonde, Ron; Ozhasoglu, Cihat; Burton, Steven; Heron, Dwight; Huq, M Saiful

2016-09-08

We performed an evaluation of the CyberKnife InCise MLC by comparing plan qualities for single and multiple brain lesions generated using the first version of InCise MLC, fixed cone, and Iris collimators. We also investigated differences in delivery efficiency among the three collimators. Twenty-four patients with single or multiple brain mets treated previously in our clinic on a CyberKnife M6 using cone/Iris collimators were selected for this study. Treatment plans were generated for all lesions using the InCise MLC. Number of monitor units, delivery time, target coverage, conformity index, and dose falloff were compared between MLC- and clinical cone/Iris-based plans. Statistical analysis was performed using the non-parametric Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney signed-rank test. The planning accuracy of the MLC-based plans was validated using chamber and film measurements. The InCise MLC-based plans achieved mean dose and target coverage comparable to the cone/Iris-based plans. Although the conformity indices of the MLC-based plans were slightly higher than those of the cone/Iris-based plans, beam delivery time for the MLC-based plans was shorter by 30% ~ 40%. For smaller targets or cases with OARs located close to or abutting target volumes, MLC-based plans provided inferior dose conformity compared to cone/Iris-based plans. The QA results of MLC-based plans were within 5% absolute dose difference with over 90% gamma passing rate using 2%/2 mm gamma criteria. The first version of InCise MLC could be a useful delivery modality, especially for clinical situations for which delivery time is a limiting factor or for multitarget cases. © 2016 The Authors.

Keratopathy in congenital aniridia.

PubMed

Mayer, Kristine L; Nordlund, Michael L; Schwartz, Gary S; Holland, Edward J

2003-04-01

Although the most apparent clinical finding in aniridia is the absence of iris tissue, additional ocular structures are often affected. Mutations of the Pax 6 gene, which is important for eye development, have been identified in families with members affected by aniridia. Poor vision in aniridic eyes may be the result of macular hypoplasia, nystagmus, amblyopia, cataracts, glaucoma, and corneal disease, termed aniridic keratopathy. Advances in surgical techniques have improved management of some of the visually disabling manifestations of aniridia, but aniridic keratopathy remains a significant source of visual loss. We have conducted a large, retrospective study of patients with aniridia to gain information about the natural course of aniridic keratopathy. In this paper, we report the results of our study, as well as findings reported in the literature. Penetrating keratoplasty alone has not been a successful treatment for severe stromal scarring, as it does not treat the underlying epithelial causes of corneal disease. However, it has been successful in corneas that have achieved stable epithelium following limbal stem cell transplantation.

Ischaemia–reperfusion injury in liver transplantation—from bench to bedside

PubMed Central

Zhai, Yuan; Petrowsky, Henrik; Hong, Johnny C.; Busuttil, Ronald W.; Kupiec-Weglinski, Jerzy W.

2013-01-01

Ischaemia–reperfusion injury (IRI) in the liver, a major complication of haemorrhagic shock, resection and transplantation, is a dynamic process that involves the two interrelated phases of local ischaemic insult and inflammation-mediated reperfusion injury. This Review highlights the latest mechanistic insights into innate–adaptive immune crosstalk and cell activation cascades that lead to inflammation-mediated injury in livers stressed by ischaemia–reperfusion, discusses progress in large animal experiments and examines efforts to minimize liver IRI in patients who have received a liver transplant. The interlinked signalling pathways in multiple hepatic cell types, the IRI kinetics and positive versus negative regulatory loops at the innate–adaptive immune interface are discussed. The current gaps in our knowledge and the pathophysiology aspects of IRI in which basic and translational research is still required are stressed. An improved appreciation of cellular immune events that trigger and sustain local inflammatory responses, which are ultimately responsible for organ injury, is fundamental to developing innovative strategies for treating patients who have received a liver transplant and developed ischaemia–reperfusion inflammation and organ dysfunction. PMID:23229329

SU-F-T-650: The Comparison of Robotic Partial Breast Stereotactic Irradiation Using MLC Vs. Iris Cone

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ding, C; Timmerman, R; Jiang, S

Purpose: To evaluate the dosimetric impact on treatment planning for partial breast stereotactic irradiation using Cyberknife with MLC versus Iris Cone. Methods: Ten patients whom underwent lumpectomy for DCIS or stage I invasive non-lobular epithelial breast cancer were included in this study. All patients were previously treated on the Cyberknife using Iris cone with the prescription dose of 37.5Gy in 5 fractions covering at least 95% of PTV on our phase I SBRT 5 fraction partial breast irradiation trial. Retrospectively, treatment planning was performed and compared using the new Cyberknife M6 MLC system for each patient. Using the same contoursmore » and critical organ constraints for both MLC and Iris cone plans, the dose on target and critical organs were analyzed accordingly. Results: Dose to critical organs such as ipsilateral lung, contralateral lung, heart, skin, ipsilateral breast, and rib were analyzed, as well as conformity index and high dose spillage of the target area. In 9 of 10 patients, the MLC plans had less total ipsilateral breast volume encompassing the 50% prescription isodose (mean:22.3±8.2% MLC vs. 31.6±8.0 Iris, p=0.00014) .The MLC plans mean estimated treatment delivery time was significantly less than the Iris plans (51±3.9min vs. 56.2±9min, p=0.03) Both MLC and Iris cone plans were able to meet all dose constraints and there was no statistical difference between those dose constraints. Conclusion: Both MLC and Iris Cone can deliver conformal dose to a partial breast target and satisfy the dose constraints of critical organs. The new Cyberknife with MLC can deliver a more conformal dose in the lower dose region and spare more ipsilateral breast tissue to the 50% prescription isodose. The treatment time for partial breast SBRT plans was also reduced using MLC. Project receives research support from Accuray Inc.« less

Leveraging community support for Education and Outreach: The IRIS E&O Program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taber, J.; Hubenthal, M.; Wysession, M. E.

2009-12-01

The IRIS E&O Program was initiated 10 years ago, some 15 years after the creation of the IRIS Consortium, as IRIS members increasingly recognized the fundamental need to communicate the results of scientific research more effectively and to attract more students to study Earth science. Since then, IRIS E&O has received core funding through successive 5-year cooperative agreements with NSF, based on proposals submitted by IRIS. While a small fraction of the overall Consortium budget, this consistent funding has allowed the development of strong, long-term elements within the E&O Program, including summer internships, IRIS/USGS museum displays, seismographs in schools, IRIS/SSA Distinguished Lecture series, and professional development for middle school and high school teachers. Reliable funding has allowed us to develop expertise in these areas due to the longevity of the programs and the continuous improvement resulting from ongoing evaluations. Support from Consortium members, including volunteering time and expertise, has been critical for the program, as the Consortium has to continually balance the value of E&O products versus equipment and data services for seismology research. The E&O program also provides service to the Consortium, such as PIs being able to count on and leverage IRIS resources when defining the broader impacts of their own research. The reliable base has made it possible to build on the core elements with focused and innovative proposals, allowing, for example, the expansion of our internship program into a full REU site. Developing collaborative proposals with other groups has been a key strategy where IRIS E&O's long-term viability can be combined with expertise from other organizations to develop new products and services. IRIS can offer to continue to reliably deliver and maintain products after the end of a 2-3 year funding cycle, which can greatly increase the reach of the project. Consortium backing has also allowed us to establish an educational fund in honor of the late John Lahr. This fund, which is comprised of individual donations, is being used to provide seismographs to schools along with professional development and ongoing support from the E&O program. We are also developing a plan for attracting larger private and/or foundation funds for new E&O activities, leveraging the reputation of a long-term program.

Slit-lamp exam (image)

MedlinePlus

A slit-lamp, which is a specialized magnifying microscope, is used to examine the structures of the eye (including the cornea, iris, vitreous, and retina). The slit-lamp is used to examine, treat (with a laser), ...

Inadvertent trypan blue posterior capsule staining during cataract surgery.

PubMed

Burkholder, Bryn M; Srikumaran, Divya; Nanji, Afshan; Lee, Bryan; Weinberg, Robert S

2013-04-01

To report 5 cases of inadvertent posterior capsule staining with trypan blue during phacoemulsification. Retrospective, observational case series. Five cases of posterior capsule staining with trypan blue were identified from cataract surgeries performed at an academic institution. All 5 eyes underwent phacoemulsification with use of iris retractors. The surgical videos from each case were reviewed to better understand the mechanisms and risk factors for posterior capsule staining with trypan blue and techniques to avoid this complication. No eyes had clinical evidence of zonular pathology during their preoperative examination. Only 1 patient reported a possible childhood history of trauma to both eyes. One eye had uveitis, requiring posterior synechialysis. All 5 cases involved the use of iris retractors. No other intraoperative complications occurred, and the intraocular lens was successfully placed in the capsular bag in all cases. All eyes had resolution of posterior capsule staining by postoperative day 8. Inadvertent posterior capsule staining with trypan blue can occur in eyes that appear structurally normal. The use of iris retractors may facilitate posterior capsule staining by allowing the posterior flow of trypan blue under the iris and through the zonules to the posterior capsule. Surgeons should consider techniques to minimize the risk of posterior capsule staining, particularly in cases involving the use of iris retractors. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The implementation research institute: training mental health implementation researchers in the United States

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background The Implementation Research Institute (IRI) provides two years of training in mental health implementation science for 10 new fellows each year. The IRI is supported by a National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) R25 grant and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Fellows attend two annual week-long trainings at Washington University in St. Louis. Training is provided through a rigorous curriculum, local and national mentoring, a ‘learning site visit’ to a federally funded implementation research project, pilot research, and grant writing. Methods This paper describes the rationale, components, outcomes to date, and participant experiences with IRI. Results IRI outcomes include 31 newly trained implementation researchers, their new grant proposals, contributions to other national dissemination and implementation research training, and publications in implementation science authored by the Core Faculty and fellows. Former fellows have obtained independent research funding in implementation science and are beginning to serve as mentors for more junior investigators. Conclusions Based on the number of implementation research grant proposals and papers produced by fellows to date, the IRI is proving successful in preparing new researchers who can inform the process of making evidence-based mental healthcare more available through real-world settings of care and who are advancing the field of implementation science. PMID:24007290

Primary iris stromal cyst with rapid growth.

PubMed

Xiao, Yang; Wang, Yu-Hong; Niu, Gai-Ling; Gao, Min

2009-11-01

To describe the clinical features and the surgical management of primary iris stromal cyst with rapid growth. A 14-year-old Chinese-Mongolian girl was referred to us with a 1-month history of obstructed vision and photophobia. On an examination, a semitransparent cyst with a densely pigmented posterior wall was revealed in the anterior chamber of the left eye. The information regarding the location and extent of the cyst was further analyzed by anterior segment optical coherence tomography and ultrasound biomicroscopy. It arose within the iris stroma, measuring 7.52 x 3.60 mm. Blood vessels on the surface of the lesion were revealed by iris angiography. There was no history of amniocentesis, birth trauma, antecedent ocular injury, or maternal illness during gestation. The diagnosis of primary iris stromal cyst was made. A combination of needle aspiration, piecemeal resection of cyst wall, cryotherapy, and argon laser photocoagulation with overlapped spots was used. Histopathology of the cyst wall revealed nonkeratinized, multilayered, stratified squamous epithelium with clusters of goblet cells. Complete resolution of the cyst was successfully achieved. The visual acuity improved to 20/25 from counting fingers. At 6 months of follow-up, there was no recurrence. Complete eradication and devitalization of any remaining epithelial cells are the key factors for preventing recurrence and diffuse epithelialization of the anterior chamber.

[Glucose tolerance and insulinemia in patients with hepatic cirrhosis and portal hypertension treated by portacaval anastomosis].

PubMed

Postiglione, A; Casaretti, B; Masciariello, S; Riccardi, G; Perrotti, N; Lamenza, F; Porcellini, M; Mattioli, P L

1979-02-28

Development of diabetes mellitus is a common complication of side to side porta-caval anastomosis (PCA). Five patients with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension have been studied with intravehous (IVGTT, 0,5 g/Kg B.W.) and oral (OGTT, 1 g/Kg B.W.) glucose tolerance tests before and three weeks after PCA. Fasting plasma glucose was 84 +/- 7 before and 87 +/- 3 mg/dl after PCA. Fasting IRI increased from 17 +/- 3 to 31 +/- 6 microU/ml. The pattern of plasma glucose and IRI response to IVGTT did not change after PCA. Plasma glucose resonse to OGTT after PCA showed only an earlier rise at 60 instead of 90 minutes, whereas IRI resonse (area under the insulin curve) was significantly enhanced (from 12.4 to 19.8 U/l, p < 0.05). These data suggest a role of gut polipeptides in determining hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistence in PCA patients.

Pigment dispersion syndrome associated with intraocular lens implantation: a new surgical technique.

PubMed

Canut Jordana, M Isabel; Pérez Formigó, Daniel; Abreu González, Rodrigo; Nadal Reus, Jeroni

2010-11-11

We report the case of a myopic patient who, after intraocular lens transplant in the posterior chamber, suffered elevated intraocular pressure due to pigment dispersion, with recurrent episodes of blurred vision. The patient was treated with a new surgical technique that can avoid potential iridolenticular contact. Complete ophthalmologic examination and optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the anterior segment were performed. Contact between the pigmentary epithelium and the iris with an intraocular lens was revealed by utrasound biomicroscopy and OCT. In this case, Nd:YAG laser iridotomy and laser iridoplasty were not effective for iridolenticular separation and control of the pigment dispersion. We propose a new technique: stitches on the surface of the iris to obtain good iridolenticular separation and good intraocular pressure control. Stitches on the iris surface should be considered as optional therapy in pigmentary glaucoma secondary to intraocular lens implantation. This surgical technique can avoid potential iridolenticular contacts more definitively.

[Intraoperative floppy iris syndrome after treatment with duloxetine: coincidence, association, or causality?].

PubMed

González-Martín-Moro, J; González-López, J J; Zarallo-Gallardo, J; Fernández-Miguel, Y

2015-02-01

The case is presented of a severe Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS) in a patient that had been treated with duloxetine. Tamsulosin is the main etiological agent involved in IFIS. However several cases of IFIS, supposedly secondary to drugs of different groups have recently been reported in the literature. The authors use this case report as a means to discuss why most of these cases should be considered anecdotal evidence. Copyright © 2014 Sociedad Española de Oftalmología. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Developing virtual REU cohorts: Reflections from the IRIS Undergraduate Internship Program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hubenthal, M.; Taber, J.; Aster, R.; Frassetto, A.

2007-12-01

Beginning in 2006, the IRIS Education and Outreach program received funding from the National Science Foundation (EAR-0453427) to explore a novel approach to the traditional Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) model. This model blends the spirit of an REU program, which traditionally hosts participants in one location with successful prior IRIS experience hosting students at widely separated institutions to participate in summer research. A unique feature the IRIS Undergraduate Internship Program is that throughout the summer, interns form and sustain a virtual community, offering assistance, sharing ideas, asking questions, and relaying life experiences while conducting their research at diverse institutions. Key to IRIS's REU model is a combination of: one-on-one mentoring by researchers at IRIS institutions across the US, developing a strong unity among interns through both face-to-face and on-line interactions, participation of an IRIS REU alumni mentor to provide both group and intern-specific guidance developing interns' abilities to self-evaluate and work independently, through carefully designed web-based tools, and increasing interns' awareness of the IRIS and broader Earth Science community; demonstrating the role they will play in this larger community. Virtual interaction is facilitated by 1) bringing students together for face-to-face contact, through a week long orientation held annually at the IRIS PASSCAL Instrument Center on the campus of the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, and 2) the community enabling web infrastructure at http://www.iris.edu/internship/. During the orientation students engage in classes in geophysics basics, career preparation, as well as training to communicate virtually. Our experiences and evaluations from the 2006 and 2007 field seasons have:shown the increasing demand for electronic advertising of REU programs, provided support for several assumptions of the model including the key role of both the orientation week and the alumni mentor, revealed the important role of blogs and discussion forums in the mentoring and self-reflection process, as well as additional technical enhancements to improve the virtual cohort, produced concrete examples of the model applied at its best, and helped the program identify challenges the model faces, e.g communicating during remote fieldwork and sustaining intern's attention and participation in the virtual community.

Screening ornamentals for their potential as As Accumulator Plants

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Arsenic-based pesticides, herbicides and insecticides are used in horticultural operations resulting in soil contamination around greenhouse structures. Phytoremediation and phytostabilization are two techniques for treating arsenic (As) contaminated soil. Several ornamental plant species, Iris (Ir...

Effect of chemical sympathectomy on the content of acetylcholine, choline and choline acetyltransferase activity in the cat spleen and iris.

PubMed

Consolo, S; Garattini, S; Ladinsky, H; Thoenen, H

1972-02-01

1. Acetylcholine and choline were measured in the spleens and irides of normal and 6-hydroxydopamine-treated cats. In addition, choline acetyltransferase activity was measured in the spleens.2. No acetylcholine or choline acetyltransferase activity were found in spleens of normal or treated cats. The choline content of normal spleens was 12.4 +/- 1.5 mug/g wet wt. (mean +/- S.E. of mean), which was not significantly altered by chemical sympathectomy.3. The acetylcholine and choline contents of the cat iris were 3.0 +/- 0.3 mug/g wet wt. and 7.7 +/- 0.9 mug/g wet wt., respectively. There was no difference in acetylcholine and choline concentrations between left and right or normal and sympathectomized irides.4. These results are discussed in relation to the question of a cholinergic link in post-ganglionic sympathetic transmission.

High-capacity ice-recrystallization endpoint assay employing superhydrophobic coatings that is equivalent to the 'splat' assay.

PubMed

Graham, Laurie A; Agrawal, Prashant; Oleschuk, Richard D; Davies, Peter L

2018-04-01

We have developed an ice recrystallization inhibition (IRI) assay system that allows the side-by-side comparison of up to a dozen samples treated in an identical manner. This system is ideal for determining, by serial dilution, the IRI 'endpoint' where the concentration of a sample is reached that can no longer inhibit recrystallization. Samples can be an order of magnitude smaller in volume (<1 μL) than those used for the conventional 'splat' assay. The samples are pipetted into wells cut out of a superhydrophobic coating on sapphire slides that are covered with a second slide and then snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen. Sapphire is greatly superior to glass in its ability to cool quickly without cracking. As a consequence, the samples freeze evenly as a multi-crystalline mass. The ice grain size is slightly larger than that obtained by the 'splat' assay but can be followed sufficiently well to assess IRI activity by changes in mean grain boundary size. The slides can be washed in detergent and reused with no carryover of IRI activity even from the highest protein concentrations. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

EO-1/Hyperion: Nearing Twelve Years of Successful Mission Science Operation and Future Plans

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Middleton, Elizabeth M.; Campbell, Petya K.; Huemmrich, K. Fred; Zhang, Qingyuan; Landis, David R.; Ungar, Stephen G.; Ong, Lawrence; Pollack, Nathan H.; Cheng, Yen-Ben

2012-01-01

The Earth Observing One (EO-1) satellite is a technology demonstration mission that was launched in November 2000, and by July 2012 will have successfully completed almost 12 years of high spatial resolution (30 m) imaging operations from a low Earth orbit. EO-1 has two unique instruments, the Hyperion and the Advanced Land Imager (ALI). Both instruments have served as prototypes for NASA's newer satellite missions, including the forthcoming (in early 2013) Landsat-8 and the future Hyperspectral Infrared Imager (HyspIRI). As well, EO-1 is a heritage platform for the upcoming German satellite, EnMAP (2015). Here, we provide an overview of the mission, and highlight the capabilities of the Hyperion for support of science investigations, and present prototype products developed with Hyperion imagery for the HyspIRI and other space-borne spectrometers.

Manual limbal markings versus iris-registration software for correction of myopic astigmatism by laser in situ keratomileusis.

PubMed

Shen, Elizabeth P; Chen, Wei-Li; Hu, Fung-Rong

2010-03-01

To compare the efficacy and safety of manual limbal markings and wavefront-guided treatment with iris-registration software in laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) for myopic astigmatism. National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. Eyes with myopic astigmatism had LASIK with a Technolas 217z laser. Eyes in the limbal-marking group had conventional LASIK (PlanoScan or Zyoptix tissue-saving algorithm) with manual cyclotorsional-error adjustments according to 2 limbal marks. Eyes in the iris-registration group had wavefront-guided ablation (Zyoptix) in which cyclotorsional errors were automatically detected and adjusted. Refraction, corneal topography, and visual acuity data were compared between groups. Vector analysis was by the Alpins method. The mean preoperative spherical equivalent (SE) was -6.64 diopters (D) +/- 1.99 (SD) in the limbal-marking group and -6.72 +/- 1.86 D in the iris-registration group (P = .92). At 6 months, the mean SE was -0.42 +/- 0.63 D and -0.47 +/- 0.62 D, respectively (P = .08). There was no statistically significant difference between groups in the astigmatism correction, success, or flattening index values using 6-month postoperative refractive data. The angle of error was within +/-10 degrees in 73% of eyes in the limbal-marking group and 75% of eyes in the iris-registration group. Manual limbal markings and iris-registration software were equally effective and safe in LASIK for myopic astigmatism, showing that checking cyclotorsion by manual limbal markings is a safe alternative when automated systems are not available. Copyright 2010 ASCRS and ESCRS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Multi-image encryption based on synchronization of chaotic lasers and iris authentication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Banerjee, Santo; Mukhopadhyay, Sumona; Rondoni, Lamberto

2012-07-01

A new technique of transmitting encrypted combinations of gray scaled and chromatic images using chaotic lasers derived from Maxwell-Bloch's equations has been proposed. This novel scheme utilizes the general method of solution of a set of linear equations to transmit similar sized heterogeneous images which are a combination of monochrome and chromatic images. The chaos encrypted gray scaled images are concatenated along the three color planes resulting in color images. These are then transmitted over a secure channel along with a cover image which is an iris scan. The entire cryptology is augmented with an iris-based authentication scheme. The secret messages are retrieved once the authentication is successful. The objective of our work is briefly outlined as (a) the biometric information is the iris which is encrypted before transmission, (b) the iris is used for personal identification and verifying for message integrity, (c) the information is transmitted securely which are colored images resulting from a combination of gray images, (d) each of the images transmitted are encrypted through chaos based cryptography, (e) these encrypted multiple images are then coupled with the iris through linear combination of images before being communicated over the network. The several layers of encryption together with the ergodicity and randomness of chaos render enough confusion and diffusion properties which guarantee a fool-proof approach in achieving secure communication as demonstrated by exhaustive statistical methods. The result is vital from the perspective of opening a fundamental new dimension in multiplexing and simultaneous transmission of several monochromatic and chromatic images along with biometry based authentication and cryptography.

Surgical Management of Iatrogenic Pigment Dispersion Glaucoma.

PubMed

Mierlo, Camille Van; Pinto, Luis Abegão; Stalmans, Ingeborg

2015-01-01

Iatrogenic pigment dispersion syndrome generally originates from a repetitive, mechanical trauma to the pigmented posterior epithelium of the iris. This trauma can arise after intraocular surgery, most commonly due to an abnormal contact between the intraocular lens (IOL) and the iris. Whether surgical removal of this primary insult can lead to a successful intraocular pressure (IOP) control remains unclear. Case-series. Patients with IOP elevation and clinical signs of pigment dispersion were screened for a diagnosis of iatrogenic IOL-related pigment dispersion. Three patients in which the IOL or the IOL-bag complex caused a pigment dispersion through a repetitive iris chafing were selected. In two cases, replacement of a sulcus-based single-piece IOL (patient 1) or a sub-luxated in-the-bag IOL (patient 2) by an anterior-chamber (AC) iris-fixed IOL led to a sustained decrease in IOP. In the third case, extensive iris atrophy and poor anatomical AC parameters for IOL implantation precluded further surgical intervention. IOL-exchange appears to be a useful tool in the management of iatrogenic pigment dispersion glaucoma due to inappropriate IOL implantation. This cause-oriented approach seems to be effective in controlling IOP, but should be offered only if safety criteria are met. How to cite this article: Van Mierlo C, Abegao Pinto L, Stalmans I. Surgical Management of Iatrogenic Pigment Dispersion Glaucoma. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2015;9(1):28-32.

Retropupillary iris-claw intraocular lens for the surgical correction of aphakia in cases with microspherophakia.

PubMed

Fouda, Sameh Mosaad; Al Aswad, Mahmoud A; Ibrahim, Basem M; Bori, Ashraf; Mattout, Hala K

2016-12-01

This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of retropupillary fixation of an iris-claw intraocular lens (IOL; Verisyse polymethyl methacrylate IOL, Abbott Medical Optics [AMO], Netherlands) for the surgical correction of aphakia in microspherophakic eyes without sufficient capsular support. This was a prospective, interventional, noncomparative case series. This interventional case series comprised 17 eyes of 9 microspherophakic patients. Retropupillary fixation of the Verisyse iris-claw IOL (AMO) was performed in all cases. The surgical time was measured. Corrected distance visual acuity, astigmatism, intraocular pressure (IOP), tissue reaction, pigment dispersion, and stability of the IOL were studied 1 day, 3 days, 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month, and 6 months postoperatively. Eight patients had familial microspherophakia and one patient had Marfan's syndrome. Eighty-two percent of the cases achieved a visual acuity of 0.3 or better. There was no significant postoperative inflammatory reaction. Transient elevation of IOP was recorded in two cases in the 1st week only. One IOL developed disengagement of one of the haptics from the iris and was successfully re-engaged. All the other IOLs were well centered and stable. The mean surgical time was 18.0 ± 4.5 min. Retropupillary fixation of an iris-claw IOL is a safe and effective procedure that provides early visual recovery. It is also a time-saving method for correcting aphakia in microspherophakic eyes without sufficient capsular support.

Salutary effect of pre-treatment with an Nrf2 inducer on ischemia reperfusion injury in the rat liver.

PubMed

Masuda, Yuichi; Vaziri, Nosratola D; Takasu, Chie; Li, Shiri; Robles, Lourdes; Pham, Christine; Le, Aimee; Vo, Kelly; Farzaneh, Seyed H; Stamos, Michael J; Ichii, Hirohito

2014-01-01

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a common phenomenon occurring during liver surgery, transplantation, and trauma. IRI causes oxidative stress which plays a critical role in causing organ damage. The Nrf2 is the master regulator of numerous genes, encoding antioxidant, detoxifying, and cytoprotective molecules. Nrf2 dysfunction has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several inflammatory disorders, cancer, and aging. This study was undertaken to investigate the effect of Nrf2 pathway activator (dh404) on warm liver IRI in a rodent model. Ten Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with dh404 or vehicle. Dh404 was dissolved in sesame oil and was given orally (1.5mg/kg) the night before and 5 hours before procedures. Rat livers were subjected to 60 minutes of 70% ischemia followed by 3 hours of reperfusion. Serum ALT and Malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined and liver tissue was processed for histological examination, and determination of apoptosis, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, ADP/ATP ratio, and expressions of Nrf2, eNOS, anti-oxidant enzymes, and inflammatory mediators. Serum ALT and MDA levels and tissue MPO activity were significantly lower, expression of the anti-oxidant enzyme, glutamate cysteine ligase were significantly higher, whereas expression of NFkB and COX-2 was unchanged in the dh404-treated group. Although the total Suzuki histology score did not differ significantly, the extent of sinusoidal congestion, vacuolization, and apoptosis was significantly reduced in the dh404 treated compared to the untreated group (P<0.01). Pre-treatment with dh404 resulted in partial attenuation of hepatic ischemia reperfusion injury in rats.

Programmed death-1/B7-H1 negative costimulation protects mouse liver against ischemia and reperfusion injury.

PubMed

Ji, Haofeng; Shen, Xiuda; Gao, Feng; Ke, Bibo; Freitas, Maria Cecilia S; Uchida, Yoichiro; Busuttil, Ronald W; Zhai, Yuan; Kupiec-Weglinski, Jerzy W

2010-10-01

Programmed death-1 (PD-1)/B7-H1 costimulation acts as a negative regulator of host alloimmune responses. Although CD4 T cells mediate innate immunity-dominated ischemia and reperfusion injury (IRI) in the liver, the underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated. This study focused on the role of PD-1/B7-H1 negative signaling in liver IRI. We used an established mouse model of partial liver warm ischemia (90 minutes) followed by reperfusion (6 hours). Although disruption of PD-1 signaling after anti-B7-H1 monoclonal antibody treatment augmented hepatocellular damage, its stimulation following B7-H1 immunoglobulin (B7-H1Ig) fusion protected livers from IRI, as evidenced by low serum alanine aminotransferase levels and well-preserved liver architecture. The therapeutic potential of B7-H1 engagement was evident by diminished intrahepatic T lymphocyte, neutrophil, and macrophage infiltration/activation; reduced cell necrosis/apoptosis but enhanced anti-necrotic/apoptotic Bcl-2/Bcl-xl; and decreased proinflammatory chemokine/cytokine gene expression in parallel with selectively increased interleukin (IL)-10. Neutralization of IL-10 re-created liver IRI and rendered B7-H1Ig-treated hosts susceptible to IRI. These findings were confirmed in T cell-macrophage in vitro coculture in which B7-H1Ig diminished tumor necrosis factor-α/IL-6 levels in an IL-10-dependent manner. Our novel findings document the essential role of the PD-1/B7-H1 pathway in liver IRI. This study is the first to demonstrate that stimulating PD-1 signals ameliorated liver IRI by inhibiting T cell activation and Kupffer cell/macrophage function. Harnessing mechanisms of negative costimulation by PD-1 upon T cell-Kupffer cell cross-talk may be instrumental in the maintenance of hepatic homeostasis by minimizing organ damage and promoting IL-10-dependent cytoprotection.

VEGF Trap in Treating Patients With Recurrent Stage III or Stage IV Melanoma That Cannot Be Removed by Surgery

ClinicalTrials.gov

2018-04-26

Ciliary Body and Choroid Melanoma, Medium/Large Size; Extraocular Extension Melanoma; Iris Melanoma; Metastatic Intraocular Melanoma; Recurrent Intraocular Melanoma; Recurrent Melanoma; Stage III Melanoma; Stage IV Melanoma

Vaccine Therapy With or Without Sargramostim in Treating Patients Who Have Undergone Surgery for Melanoma

ClinicalTrials.gov

2015-04-14

Ciliary Body and Choroid Melanoma, Medium/Large Size; Extraocular Extension Melanoma; Iris Melanoma; Stage IIB Melanoma; Stage IIC Melanoma; Stage IIIA Melanoma; Stage IIIB Melanoma; Stage IIIC Melanoma; Stage IV Melanoma

TECHNICAL BRIEF: Isolation of total DNA from postmortem human eye tissues and quality comparison between iris and retina

PubMed Central

Wang, Jay Ching Chieh; Wang, Aikun; Gao, Jiangyuan; Cao, Sijia; Samad, Idris; Zhang, Dean; Ritland, Carol; Cui, Jing Z.

2012-01-01

Background Recent genomic technologies have propelled our understanding of the mechanisms underlying complex eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Genotyping postmortem eye tissues for known single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with AMD may prove valuable, especially when combined with information obtained through other methods such as immunohistochemistry, western blot, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and proteomics. Initially intending to genotype postmortem eye tissues for AMD-related SNPs, our group became interested in isolating and comparing the quality of DNA from the iris and retina of postmortem donor eyes. Since there is no previously published protocol in the literature on this topic, we present a protocol suitable for isolating high-quality DNA from postmortem eye tissues for genomic studies. Methods DNA from 33 retinal samples and 35 iris samples was extracted using the phenol-chloroform-isoamyl method from postmortem donor eye tissues. The quantity of DNA was measured with a spectrophotometer while the quality was checked using gel electrophoresis. The DNA samples were then amplified with PCR for the complement factor H (CFH) gene. The purified amplified products were then genotyped for the SNPs in the CFH gene. Results Regarding concentration, the retina yielded 936 ng/μl of DNA, while the iris yielded 78 ng/μl of DNA. Retinal DNA was also purer than iris DNA (260/280=1.78 vs. 1.46, respectively), and produced superior PCR results. Retinal tissue yielded significantly more DNA than the iris tissue per mg of sample (21.7 ng/μl/mg vs. 7.42 ng/μl/mg). Retinal DNA can be readily amplified with PCR, while iris DNA can also be amplified by adding bovine serum albumin. Overall, retinal tissues yielded DNA of superior quality, quantity, and suitability for genotyping and genomic studies. Conclusions The protocol presented here provides a clear and reliable method for isolating total DNA from postmortem eye tissues. Retinal tissue provides DNA of excellent quantity and quality for genotyping and downstream genomic studies. However, DNA isolated from iris tissues, and treated with bovine serum albumin, may also be a valuable source of DNA for genotyping and genomic studies. PMID:23288996

ENHANCED GENE DELIVERY IN PORCINE VASCULATURE TISSUE FOLLOWING INCORPORATION OF ADENO-ASSOCIATED VIRUS NANOPARTICLES INTO POROUS SILICON MICROPARTICLES

PubMed Central

McConnell, Kellie I.; Rhudy, Jessica; Yokoi, Kenji; Gu, Jianhua; Mack, Aaron; Suh, Junghae; La Francesca, Saverio; Sakamoto, Jason; Serda, Rita E.

2014-01-01

There is an unmet clinical need to increase lung transplant successes, patient satisfaction and to improve mortality rates. We offer the development of a nanovector-based solution that will reduce the incidence of lung ischemic reperfusion injury (IRI) leading to graft organ failure through the successful ex vivo treatment of the lung prior to transplantation. The innovation is in the integrated application of our novel porous silicon (pSi) microparticles carrying adeno-associated virus (AAV) nanoparticles, and the use of our ex vivo lung perfusion/ventilation system for the modulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines initiated by ischemic pulmonary conditions prior to organ transplant that often lead to complications. Gene delivery of anti-inflammatory agents to combat the inflammatory cascade may be a promising approach to prevent IRI following lung transplantation. The rationale for the device is that the microparticle will deliver a large payload of virus to cells and serve to protect the AAV from immune recognition. The microparticle-nanoparticle hybrid device was tested both in vitro on cell monolayers and ex vivo using either porcine venous tissue or a pig lung transplantation model, which recapitulates pulmonary IRI that occurs clinically post-transplantation. Remarkably, loading AAV vectors into pSi microparticles increases gene delivery to otherwise non-permissive endothelial cells. PMID:25180449

Limbal Stem Cell Preservation During Proton Beam Irradiation for Diffuse Iris Melanoma.

PubMed

Singh, Arun D; Dupps, William J; Biscotti, Charles V; Suh, John H; Lathrop, Kira L; Nairn, John P; Shih, Helen

2017-01-01

To report the outcome after limbal stem cell preservation during proton beam irradiation for diffuse iris melanoma. This is a single-case report of diffuse iris melanoma that was managed with proton beam radiation (53 Gy), wherein preemptively harvested superior and inferior limbal stem cells before radiation were replaced after irradiation. Regeneration of the palisades of Vogt and the limbal stem cells was documented by an optical coherence tomography-based imaging protocol. At 24 months after radiation therapy, best-corrected visual acuity was 20/25. The cornea was clear without evidence of limbal stem cell dysfunction. Clinical examination (including gonioscopy and ultrasound biomicroscopy [UBM]) was indicative of local control, and systemic surveillance was negative for metastatic disease. At posttransplant (21 months), there were more palisade structures visible in both anterior and posterior regions of the superior and inferior limbus, and the linear presentation of the inferior palisades appears to have regenerated. Diffuse iris melanoma can be managed successfully with proton beam radiation while preserving corneal limbal stem cells by harvesting them before radiation and then replacing them after irradiation. Regeneration of the palisades of Vogt could be documented by an optical coherence tomography-based imaging protocol.

A statistical investigation into the stability of iris recognition in diverse population sets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Howard, John J.; Etter, Delores M.

2014-05-01

Iris recognition is increasingly being deployed on population wide scales for important applications such as border security, social service administration, criminal identification and general population management. The error rates for this incredibly accurate form of biometric identification are established using well known, laboratory quality datasets. However, it is has long been acknowledged in biometric theory that not all individuals have the same likelihood of being correctly serviced by a biometric system. Typically, techniques for identifying clients that are likely to experience a false non-match or a false match error are carried out on a per-subject basis. This research makes the novel hypothesis that certain ethnical denominations are more or less likely to experience a biometric error. Through established statistical techniques, we demonstrate this hypothesis to be true and document the notable effect that the ethnicity of the client has on iris similarity scores. Understanding the expected impact of ethnical diversity on iris recognition accuracy is crucial to the future success of this technology as it is deployed in areas where the target population consists of clientele from a range of geographic backgrounds, such as border crossings and immigration check points.

The quiet and disturbed time performance of the IRI 2012 within 90°-130°E longitude sector during solar cycle 24

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhuyan, Pradip; Yokoyama, Tatsuhiro; Supnithi, Pornchai; Kalita, Bitap Raj; Wang, Kehe; Komolmis, Tharadol; Yatini, Clara

2016-07-01

The performance of the IRI 2012 model is examined for the double peaked solar cycle 24 in the low latitude region of 90-130oE longitude in the context of the global longitudinal wave number four structure (WN4). The monthly mean values of the foF2 and the hmF2(if available) measurements at low and low mid-latitude stations Dibrugarh (27.5°N, 95°E), Hainan (19.2°N,109.7°E),Okinawa (26.5°N,128°E) and Cocos Island (12.2°S,96.8°E) during quiet times and Dibrugarh (27.5°N, 95°E), Chiang Mai (18.76°N,98.93°E), Chumphon (10.72°N,99.37°E), Kototabang (0.2°S,100.32°E) and Cocos Island (12.2°S,96.8°E ) during the disturbed days of a severe geomagnetic storm are investigated. These stations are located under the strongest peak of the longitudinal WN4 structure in NmF2 along 90-130°E longitudes. The IRI is quite successful in predicting the seasonal averages of NmF2 over this region except in the equinox afternoon period where IRI underestimates the NmF2 in low latitudes. When the monthly mean measured data is compared with IRI, the difference between the IRI model predictions and the measurements are found to follow a systematic pattern. The IRI-2012 with CCIR options slightly underestimates foF2 over Dibrugarh in day time and overestimates in the night time. The amount of underestimation varies from month to month and also depends on the solar activity levels. The IRI also underestimated the day time hmF2 and overestimated the night time hmF2 over Dibrugarh. In case of Hainan, the IRI overestimates the NmF2 in the equinox months and generally in the afternoon to post sunset period. The model values are closer in the solstice than in the equinox. In Okinawa, the trend reverses and the IRI overestimates the NmF2 in the day time and underestimates in the night time. The IRI overestimated the day time hmF2 and underestimated the night time hmF2 over Okinawa. In case of Cocos Island which lies almost on the EIA anomaly region of the southern hemisphere, IRI underestimates the peak day time NmF2 in most months. The measurements are closer to the model values in the forenoon period and in the low solar activity period. The striking feature across all the stations is the IRI underestimation of the post sunset enhancement of NmF2 in low latitudes. During the severe geomagnetic storm of 17-18 March, 2015, the IRI was not able to replicate the inhibition of EIA on the next day i.e. 18 March as observed in the 100°E longitude.

Supersensitivity of the rabbit iris sphincter muscle induced by trigeminal denervation: the role of substance P.

PubMed Central

Fujiwara, M; Hayashi, H; Muramatsu, I; Ueda, N

1984-01-01

The rabbit left ophthalmic nerve (first branch of the left trigeminal nerve) was cut at the intracranial, peripheral side of the trigeminal ganglion and the effects of denervation were examined using iris sphincter muscle preparations isolated from the left and right eye, as denervated and control innervated preparations, respectively. Electrical transmural stimulation produced a substance P-operated contraction, in addition to a cholinergic one, in the preparation isolated from the right control eye. The former response was abolished in the preparation isolated from the left denervated eye, thereby indicating that the trigeminal, substance P nerve ipsilaterally innervates the iris sphincter muscle. Exogenously applied carbachol and substance P produced concentration-dependent contractions in preparations isolated from either eye. Supersensitivity characterized by a decrease in median effective concentration (EC50) values and an increase in maximal response was observed in the responses to both agents of the left denervated preparation. Such supersensitivity developed slowly after trigeminal denervation and 3 weeks was required for full development. Exogenously applied KCl produced substance P-operated and direct muscle contractions in the right control preparations. In the left denervated preparations, the substance P-operated contraction was either markedly attenuated or abolished, while the direct muscle-related contraction was enhanced after trigeminal denervation. The length of the left denervated preparation was longer than that of the right control preparation, and the resting tensions required to produce maximal carbachol contraction shifted to lower values. These physical changes of the iris sphincter muscle developed within 5 days after trigeminal denervation. In the non-denervated preparation treated with capsaicin in vitro, electrical transmural stimulation and KCl failed to produce the substance P-related contraction. However, supersensitivity to neither exogenously applied substance P, carbachol and KCl nor physical changes were observed in the capsaicin-treated preparation. These results suggest that trigeminal, substance P-related nerves tonically and ipsilaterally innervate the rabbit iris sphincter muscle and that the denervation results in non-specific supersensitivity. These findings are essentially the same as those observed in various types of smooth muscles after autonomic denervation. PMID:6205140

Investigating Antithyroid Effects of Propylthiouracil on the Ischemia and Reperfusion Injury in Rat' Kidney and Determining the Role of Nitric Oxide in Mediating this Effect.

PubMed

Tofangchiha, Shahnaz; Moazen Jamshidi, Seyed Mir Mansoor; Emami, Hamed; Dormanesh, Banafshe

2014-10-01

Renal ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) is a major problem in renal transplantation, which occurs during the process of organ retrieval and storage, and is closely associated with acute rejection episodes and late allograft failure. Recent studies have revealed a new phenomenon called "chemical preconditioning" that can induce tolerance against the ischemic stress via a variety of proposed pathways especially nitric oxide (NO) system. Propylthiouracil (PTU) is suggested to modulate the intracellular NO signaling. In this study, we investigated the preconditioning properties of chronic pretreatment with PTU in preventing renal IRI. In addition, we evaluated the involvement of NO pathway. Sixty adult male Wistar rats were allocated into six groups. All groups underwent right nephrectomy 15 days before intervention. In groups 1 (Chronic PTU + L-NG-nitro arginine methyl ester [L-NAME]) and 2 (Chronic PTU) oral PTU (500 mg/L in water) treatment was started 15 days before right nephrectomy to achieve the therapeutic plasma level of PTU. Fourteen days after nephrectomy, animals received either L-NAME (10 mg/kg) or its vehicle and renal IRI was induced 45 minutes later. Groups 3 and 4 (Control) received respectively L-NAME (10 mg/kg) and its vehicle 45 minutes before IRI. The last two groups were normal sham operated rats and PTU + sham. Rats were killed 24 hours after IRI. The blood samples were collected and assessed for serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (Cr) level, and tissue samples were fixed in formalin for histopathologic scoring of tubular damage (H-score). The mean BUN, Cr, and H-score of control group were 176.66 ± 12.24 mmol/L, 4.45 ± 0.44 μmol/L, and 83.5% ± 3.5%, respectively. Chronic pretreatment with PTU significantly improved BUN (40.4 ± 6.1 mmol/L), Cr (0.96 ± 0.068 μmol/L), and H-score (7.83% ± 4.02%) in IRI animals in comparison to those that were not treated with chronic PTU (P < 0.001) and L-NAME; however, it did not completely reversed the chronic PTU-induced protection (BUN, 93.33 ± 12.22 mmol/L; Cr, 2.7 ± 1.15 μmol/L, and H-score, 24.83% ± 3.5%). There was no significant difference between rats that were treated with L-NAME alone (group 5) and the control group. Our study demonstrates that preconditioning of kidney with chronic PTU administration protects renal tissue against IRI and this phenomenon was mediated through NO system. The results suggest a potential indication for using PTU to protect the kidney before transplantations and to reduce the risk of tissue rejection afterwards.

Assessing the IRIS Professional Development Model: Impact Beyond the Workshops

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hubenthal, M.; Braile, L. W.; Taber, J. J.

2003-12-01

The IRIS Education and Outreach (E&O) Program has developed a highly effective, one-day professional development experience for formal educators. Leveraging the expertise of its consortium, IRIS delivers content including: plate tectonics, propagation of seismic waves, seismographs, Earth's interior structure. At the core of the IRIS professional development model is the philosophy that changes in teacher behavior can be affected by increasing teacher comfort in the classroom. Science and research organizations such as IRIS are able to increase teachers' comfort in the classroom by providing professional development which: increases an educator's knowledge of scientific content, provides educators with a variety of high-quality, scientifically accurate activities to deliver content to students, and provides educators with experiences involving both the content and the educational activities as the primary means of knowledge transfer. As reflected in a 2002-2003 academic year assessment program, this model has proven to be effective at reaching beyond participants and extending into the educators' classrooms. 76% of respondents report increasing the amount of time they spend teaching seismology or related topics in their classroom as a result of participating in IRIS professional development experience. This increase can be directly attributed to the workshop as 90% of participants report using at least one activity modeled during the workshop upon returning to their classrooms. The reported mean activity usage by teachers upon was 4.5 activities per teacher. Since the inception of the professional development model in 1999, IRIS E&O has been committed to evaluation. Data derived from assessment is utilized as a key decision making tool, driving a continuous improvement process. As a result, both the model and the assessment methods have become increasingly refined and sophisticated. The alignment of the professional development model within the IRIS E&O Program framework has resulted in a clarified a definition of success and an increased demand for the collection of new data. Currently, the assessment program is testing tools to examine participant learning, measure the transfer of knowledge and resources from professional development into in classrooms, and measure the use of individual activities.

Successful Treatment of Pulmonary and Cerebral Toxoplasmosis Associated with Pneumocystis Pneumonia in an HIV Patient.

PubMed

Rey, Marie-Françoise; Mary, Charles; Sanguinetti, Diane; Ranque, Stéphane; Bartoli, Christophe; L'Ollivier, Coralie

2017-12-18

In both the post and pre combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) era, Pneumocystis jirovecii and Toxoplasma gondii remain common opportunistic infectious agents. The common manifestations are pneumonia for P. jirovecii and brain abscess for T. gondii . Nevertheless, co-infection remains rare, and pulmonary toxoplasmosis is scarce, or may be underestimated because of its similarity with Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia. We reported an uncommon case of an AIDS patient (6 CD4 + T cells/mm³) with both pulmonary and cerebral toxoplasmosis associated with pneumocystis pneumonia. The patient presented with general weakness, fever and dyspnea. Pulmonary toxoplasmosis and pneumocystis were confirmed by microscopic examination and DNA detection in the bronchoalveolar lavage. Computed tomography imaging of the brain revealed a single characteristic cerebral toxoplasmosis lesion of the left capsular area. He was successful treated by trimethoprim/sulfamethoxaxole in conjunction with an early reintroduction of cART, and without IRIS development. During a 3-year follow-up, HIV viral load remained undetectable, and the patient did not relapse for toxoplasmosis or Pneumocystis pneumonia.

Comparison of Toric Foldable Iris-Fixated Phakic Intraocular Lens Implantation and Limbal Relaxing Incisions for Moderate-to-High Myopic Astigmatism

PubMed Central

Lee, Jeihoon; Lee, Hun; Kang, David Sung Yong; Choi, Jin Young; Kim, Eung Kweon

2016-01-01

Purpose To compare the effectiveness of toric foldable iris-fixated phakic intraocular lens (pIOL) implantation and non-toric foldable iris-fixated pIOL implantation with limbal relaxing incisions (LRIs) for correcting moderate-to-high astigmatism in myopic eyes. Materials and Methods The medical records of 146 patients (195 eyes) with myopic astigmatism who underwent toric foldable iris-fixated pIOL implantation (toric group; 94 eyes) or non-toric foldable iris-fixated pIOL implantation with concurrent LRIs (LRI group; 101 eyes) were retrospectively reviewed. For subgroup analysis, the two groups were subdivided according to preoperative astigmatic severity [moderate, 2.00 to <3.00 diopters (D); high, 3.00–4.00 D]. Visual and astigmatic outcomes were compared 6 months postoperatively. Results The uncorrected distance visual acuity was at least 20/25 in 100% and 98% of the toric and LRI group eyes, respectively. The toric group had lower mean residual cylindrical error (-0.67±0.39 D vs. -1.14±0.56 D; p<0.001) and greater mean cylindrical error change (2.17±0.56 D vs. 1.63±0.72 D; p<0.001) than the LRI group, regardless of the preoperative astigmatic severity. The mean correction index (1.10±0.16 vs. 0.72±0.24; p<0.001) and success index (0.24±0.14 vs. 0.42±0.21; p<0.001) also differed significantly between the groups. Conclusion Both surgical techniques considerably reduced astigmatism and had comparable visual outcomes. However, toric foldable iris-fixated pIOL implantation was more reliable for correcting moderate-to-high astigmatism in myopic eyes. PMID:27593877

Alteration of flower color in Iris germanica L. 'Fire Bride' through ectopic expression of phytoene synthase gene (crtB) from Pantoea agglomerans.

PubMed

Jeknić, Zoran; Jeknić, Stevan; Jevremović, Slađana; Subotić, Angelina; Chen, Tony H H

2014-08-01

Genetic modulation of the carotenogenesis in I. germanica 'Fire Bride' by ectopic expression of a crtB gene causes several flower parts to develop novel orange and pink colors. Flower color in tall bearded irises (Iris germanica L.) is determined by two distinct biochemical pathways; the carotenoid pathway, which imparts yellow, orange and pink hues and the anthocyanin pathway, which produces blue, violet and maroon flowers. Red-flowered I. germanica do not exist in nature and conventional breeding methods have thus far failed to produce them. With a goal of developing iris cultivars with red flowers, we transformed a pink iris I. germanica, 'Fire Bride', with a bacterial phytoene synthase gene (crtB) from Pantoea agglomerans under the control of the promoter region of a gene for capsanthin-capsorubin synthase from Lilium lancifolium (Llccs). This approach aimed to increase the flux of metabolites into the carotenoid biosynthetic pathway and lead to elevated levels of lycopene and darker pink or red flowers. Iris callus tissue ectopically expressing the crtB gene exhibited a color change from yellow to pink-orange and red, due to accumulation of lycopene. Transgenic iris plants, regenerated from the crtB-transgenic calli, showed prominent color changes in the ovaries (green to orange), flower stalk (green to orange), and anthers (white to pink), while the standards and falls showed no significant differences in color when compared to control plants. HPLC and UHPLC analysis confirmed that the color changes were primarily due to the accumulation of lycopene. In this study, we showed that ectopic expression of a crtB can be used to successfully alter the color of certain flower parts in I. germanica 'Fire Bride' and produce new flower traits.

Using EO-1 Hyperion to Simulate HyspIRI Products for a Coniferous Forest: The Fraction of PAR Absorbed by Chlorophyll (fAPAR(sub chl)) and Leaf Water Content (LWC)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zhang, Qingyuan; Middleton, Elizabeth M.; Gao, Bo-Cai; Cheng, Yen-Ben

2011-01-01

This study presents development of prototype products for terrestrial ecosystems in preparation for the future imaging spectrometer planned for the Hyperspectral Infrared Imager (HyspIRI) mission. We present a successful demonstration example in a coniferous forest of two product prototypes: fraction of photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) absorbed by chlorophyll of a canopy (fAPAR(sub chl)) and leaf water content (LWC), for future HyspIRI implementation at 60 m spatial resolution. For this, we used existing 30 m resolution imaging spectrometer data available from the Earth Observing One (EO-1) Hyperion satellite to simulate and prototype the level one radiometrically corrected radiance (L1R) images expected from the HyspIRI visible through shortwave infrared spectrometer. The HyspIRI-like images were atmospherically corrected to obtain surface reflectance, and spectrally resampled to produce 60 m reflectance images for wavelength regions that were comparable to all seven of the MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) land bands. Thus, we developed MODIS-like surface reflectance in seven spectral bands at the HyspIRI-like spatial scale, which was utilized to derive fAPARchl and LWC with a coupled canopy-leaf radiative transfer model (PROSAIL2) for the coniferous forest[1]. With this study, we provide additional evidence that the fAPARchl product is more realistic for describing the physiologically active canopy than the traditional fAPAR parameter for the whole canopy (fAPAR(sub canopy)), and thus should replace it in ecosystem process models to reduce uncertainties in terrestrial carbon cycle studies and ecosystem studies.

Comparison of Toric Foldable Iris-Fixated Phakic Intraocular Lens Implantation and Limbal Relaxing Incisions for Moderate-to-High Myopic Astigmatism.

PubMed

Lee, Jeihoon; Lee, Hun; Kang, David Sung Yong; Choi, Jin Young; Kim, Eung Kweon; Kim, Tae Im

2016-11-01

To compare the effectiveness of toric foldable iris-fixated phakic intraocular lens (pIOL) implantation and non-toric foldable iris-fixated pIOL implantation with limbal relaxing incisions (LRIs) for correcting moderate-to-high astigmatism in myopic eyes. The medical records of 146 patients (195 eyes) with myopic astigmatism who underwent toric foldable iris-fixated pIOL implantation (toric group; 94 eyes) or non-toric foldable iris-fixated pIOL implantation with concurrent LRIs (LRI group; 101 eyes) were retrospectively reviewed. For subgroup analysis, the two groups were subdivided according to preoperative astigmatic severity [moderate, 2.00 to <3.00 diopters (D); high, 3.00-4.00 D]. Visual and astigmatic outcomes were compared 6 months postoperatively. The uncorrected distance visual acuity was at least 20/25 in 100% and 98% of the toric and LRI group eyes, respectively. The toric group had lower mean residual cylindrical error (-0.67±0.39 D vs. -1.14±0.56 D; p<0.001) and greater mean cylindrical error change (2.17±0.56 D vs. 1.63±0.72 D; p<0.001) than the LRI group, regardless of the preoperative astigmatic severity. The mean correction index (1.10±0.16 vs. 0.72±0.24; p<0.001) and success index (0.24±0.14 vs. 0.42±0.21; p<0.001) also differed significantly between the groups. Both surgical techniques considerably reduced astigmatism and had comparable visual outcomes. However, toric foldable iris-fixated pIOL implantation was more reliable for correcting moderate-to-high astigmatism in myopic eyes.

PTP1B inhibitors from the seeds of Iris sanguinea and their insulin mimetic activities via AMPK and ACC phosphorylation.

PubMed

Yang, Jun Li; Ha, Thi Kim Quy; Lee, Ba Wool; Kim, Jinwoong; Oh, Won Keun

2017-11-15

To find PTP1B inhibitors from natural products, two new compounds (1 and 2), along with nine known compounds (3-11), were isolated from a methanol-soluble extract of Iris sanguinea seeds. The structures of compounds 1 and 2 were determined based on extensive spectroscopic data analysis including UV, IR, NMR, and MS. The IC 50 value of compound 5 on protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) inhibitory activity is 7.30±0.88µM with a little activity compared to the IC 50 values of the tested positive compound. Compound 5 significantly enhanced glucose uptake and activation of pACC, pAMPK and partially Erk1/2 signaling. These results suggest that compound 5 from Iris sanguinea seeds are utilized as both PTP1B inhibitors and regulators of glucose uptake. These beneficial effects could be applied to treat metabolic diseases such as diabetes and obesity. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparison of GPS-TEC measurements with NeQuick2 and IRI model predictions in the low latitude East African region during varying solar activity period (1998 and 2008-2015)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mengistu, E.; Damtie, B.; Moldwin, M. B.; Nigussie, M.

2018-03-01

This paper examines the performances of NeQuick2, the latest available IRI-2016, IRI-2012 and IRI-2007 models in describing the monthly and seasonal mean total electron content (TEC) over the East African region. This is to gain insight into the success of the various model types and versions at characterizing the ionosphere within the equatorial ionization anomaly. TEC derived from five Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers installed at Addis Ababa (ADD, 5.33°N, 111.99°E Geog.), Asab (ASAB, 8.67°N, 116.44°E Geog.), Ambo (ABOO, 5.43°N, 111.05°E Geog.), Nairobi (RCMN, -4.48°N, 108.46°E Geog.) and Nazret (NAZR, 4.78°N, 112.43°E Geog.), are compared with the corresponding values computed using those models during varying solar activity period (1998 and 2008-2015). We found that different models describe the equatorial and anomaly region ionosphere best depending on solar cycle, season and geomagnetic activity levels. Our results show that IRI-2016 is the best model (compared to others in terms of discrepancy range) in estimating the monthly mean GPS-TEC at NAZR, ADD and RCMN stations except at ADD during 2008 and 2012. It is also found that IRI-2012 is the best model in estimating the monthly mean TEC at ABOO station in 2014. IRI show better agreement with observations during June solstice for all the years studied at ADD except in 2012 where NeQuick2 better performs. At NAZR, NeQuick2 better performs in estimating seasonal mean GPS-TEC during 2011, while IRI models are best during 2008-2009. Both NeQuick2 and IRI models underestimate measured TEC for all the seasons at ADD in 2010 but overestimate at NAZR in 2009 and RCMN in 2008. The periodic variations of experimental and modeled TEC have been compared with solar and geomagnetic indices at ABOO and ASAB in 2014 and results indicate that the F10.7 and sunspot number as indices of solar activity seriously affects the TEC variations with periods of 16-32 days followed by the geomagnetic activity on shorter timescales (roughly periods of less than 16 days). In this case, NeQuick2 derived TEC shows better agreement with a long term period variations of GPS-TEC, while IRI-2016 and IRI-2007 show better agreement with observations during short term periodic variations. This indicates that the dependence of NeQuick2 derived TEC on F10.7 is seasonal. Hence, we suggest that representation of geomagnetic activity indices is required for better performance over the low latitude region.

IL-25 Elicits Innate Lymphoid Cells and Multipotent Progenitor Type 2 Cells That Reduce Renal Ischemic/Reperfusion Injury

PubMed Central

Huang, Qingsong; Niu, Zhiguo; Tan, Jing; Yang, Jun; Liu, Yun; Ma, Haijun; Lee, Vincent W.S.; Sun, Shuming; Song, Xiangfeng; Guo, Minghao; Wang, Yiping

2015-01-01

IL-25 is an important immune regulator that can promote Th2 immune response-dependent immunity, inflammation, and tissue repair in asthma, intestinal infection, and autoimmune diseases. In this study, we examined the effects of IL-25 in renal ischemic/reperfusion injury (IRI). Treating IRI mice with IL-25 significantly improved renal function and reduced renal injury. Furthermore, IL-25 treatment increased the levels of IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 in serum and kidney and promoted induction of alternatively activated (M2) macrophages in kidney. Notably, IL-25 treatment also increased the frequency of type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) and multipotent progenitor type 2 (MPPtype2) cells in kidney. IL-25–responsive ILC2 and MPPtype2 cells produced greater amounts of Th2 cytokines that associated with the induction of M2 macrophages and suppression of classically activated (M1) macrophages in vitro. Finally, adoptive transfer of ILC2s or MPPtype2 cells not only reduced renal functional and histologic injury in IRI mice but also induced M2 macrophages in kidney. In conclusion, our data identify a mechanism whereby IL-25-elicited ILC2 and MPPtype2 cells regulate macrophage phenotype in kidney and prevent renal IRI. PMID:25556172

The immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome in whipple disease: a cohort study.

PubMed

Feurle, Gerhard E; Moos, Verena; Schinnerling, Katina; Geelhaar, Anika; Allers, Kristina; Biagi, Federico; Bläker, Hendrik; Moter, Annette; Loddenkemper, Christoph; Jansen, Andreas; Schneider, Thomas

2010-12-07

Whipple disease, which is caused by infection with Tropheryma whipplei, can be treated effectively with antimicrobials. Occasionally, inflammation reappears after initial improvement; this is often interpreted as refractory or recurrent disease. However, polymerase chain reaction for T. whipplei in tissue is sometimes negative during reinflammation, indicating absence of vital bacteria, and this reinflammation does not respond to antimicrobials but does respond to steroids. To demonstrate that the immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) occurs in patients treated for Whipple disease. Cohort study. (International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number Register registration number: ISRCTN45658456) 2 academic medical centers in Germany. 142 patients treated for Whipple disease out of a cohort of 187 were observed for reappearance of inflammatory signs after effective antibiotic therapy. Definitions of IRIS in HIV infection, tuberculosis, and leprosy were adapted for application to Whipple disease. On the basis of study definitions, IRIS was diagnosed in 15 of 142 patients. Symptoms included fever, arthritis, pleurisy, erythema nodosum, inflammatory orbitopathy, small-bowel perforation, and a hypothalamic syndrome. Two patients died. There was a positive correlation with previous immunosuppressive treatment and a negative correlation with previous diarrhea and weight loss. The study was observational and thus has inherent weaknesses, such as incomplete and potentially selective data recording. The immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome was diagnosed in about 10% of patients with Whipple disease in the study cohort; the outcome varied from mild to fatal. Patients who had had previous immunosuppressive therapy were at particular risk. An immune reconstitution syndrome should be considered in patients with Whipple disease in whom inflammatory symptoms recur after effective treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment with steroids may be beneficial; prospective studies are needed. European Commission and Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft.

Selective Cannabinoid 2 Receptor Stimulation Reduces Tubular Epithelial Cell Damage after Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury.

PubMed

Pressly, Jeffrey D; Mustafa, Suni M; Adibi, Ammaar H; Alghamdi, Sahar; Pandey, Pankaj; Roy, Kuldeep K; Doerksen, Robert J; Moore, Bob M; Park, Frank

2018-02-01

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a common cause of acute kidney injury (AKI), which is an increasing problem in the clinic and has been associated with elevated rates of mortality. Therapies to treat AKI are currently not available, so identification of new targets that can be modulated to ameliorate renal damage upon diagnosis of AKI is essential. In this study, a novel cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) agonist, SMM-295 [3'-methyl-4-(2-(thiophen-2-yl)propan-2-yl)biphenyl-2,6-diol], was designed, synthesized, and tested in vitro and in silico. Molecular docking of SMM-295 into a CB2 active-state homology model showed that SMM-295 interacts well with key amino acids to stabilize the active state. In human embryonic kidney 293 cells, SMM-295 was capable of reducing cAMP production with 66-fold selectivity for CB2 versus cannabinoid receptor 1 and dose-dependently increased mitogen-activated protein kinase and Akt phosphorylation. In vivo testing of the CB2 agonist was performed using a mouse model of bilateral IRI, which is a common model to mimic human AKI, where SMM-295 was immediately administered upon reperfusion of the kidneys after the ischemia episode. Histologic damage assessment 48 hours after reperfusion demonstrated reduced tubular damage in the presence of SMM-295. This was consistent with reduced plasma markers of renal dysfunction (i.e., creatinine and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin) in SMM-295-treated mice. Mechanistically, kidneys treated with SMM-295 were shown to have elevated activation of Akt with reduced terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated digoxigenin-deoxyuridine nick-end labeling (TUNEL)-positive cells compared with vehicle-treated kidneys after IRI. These data suggest that selective CB2 receptor activation could be a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of AKI. Copyright © 2018 by The American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics.

AZD2171 in Treating Patients With Recurrent or Stage IV Melanoma

ClinicalTrials.gov

2015-06-01

Acral Lentiginous Malignant Melanoma; Ciliary Body and Choroid Melanoma, Medium/Large Size; Ciliary Body and Choroid Melanoma, Small Size; Extraocular Extension Melanoma; Intraocular Melanoma; Iris Melanoma; Lentigo Maligna Malignant Melanoma; Recurrent Melanoma; Stage, Intraocular Melanoma; Stage IV Melanoma; Superficial Spreading Malignant Melanoma

Effect of chemical sympathectomy on the content of acetylcholine, choline and choline acetyltransferase activity in the cat spleen and iris

PubMed Central

Consolo, S.; Garattini, S.; Ladinsky, H.; Thoenen, H.

1972-01-01

1. Acetylcholine and choline were measured in the spleens and irides of normal and 6-hydroxydopamine-treated cats. In addition, choline acetyltransferase activity was measured in the spleens. 2. No acetylcholine or choline acetyltransferase activity were found in spleens of normal or treated cats. The choline content of normal spleens was 12·4 ± 1·5 μg/g wet wt. (mean ± S.E. of mean), which was not significantly altered by chemical sympathectomy. 3. The acetylcholine and choline contents of the cat iris were 3·0 ± 0·3 μg/g wet wt. and 7·7 ± 0·9 μg/g wet wt., respectively. There was no difference in acetylcholine and choline concentrations between left and right or normal and sympathectomized irides. 4. These results are discussed in relation to the question of a cholinergic link in post-ganglionic sympathetic transmission. PMID:4335730

Clinical and Research Activities at the CATANA Facility of INFN-LNS: From the Conventional Hadrontherapy to the Laser-Driven Approach.

PubMed

Cirrone, Giuseppe A P; Cuttone, Giacomo; Raffaele, Luigi; Salamone, Vincenzo; Avitabile, Teresio; Privitera, Giuseppe; Spatola, Corrado; Margarone, Daniele; Patti, Valeria; Petringa, Giada; Romano, Francesco; Russo, Andrea; Russo, Antonio; Sabini, Maria G; Scuderi, Valentina; Schillaci, Francesco; Valastro, Lucia M

2017-01-01

The CATANA proton therapy center was the first Italian clinical facility making use of energetic (62 MeV) proton beams for the radioactive treatment of solid tumors. Since the date of the first patient treatment in 2002, 294 patients have been successful treated whose majority was affected by choroidal and iris melanomas. In this paper, we report on the current clinical and physical status of the CATANA facility describing the last dosimetric studies and reporting on the last patient follow-up results. The last part of the paper is dedicated to the description of the INFN-LNS ongoing activities on the realization of a beamline for the transport of laser-accelerated ion beams for future applications. The ELIMED (ELI-Beamlines MEDical and multidisciplinary applications) project is introduced and the main scientific aspects will be described.

Infusion of mesenchymal stem cells protects lung transplants from cold ischemia-reperfusion injury in mice.

PubMed

Tian, Weijun; Liu, Yi; Zhang, Bai; Dai, Xiangchen; Li, Guang; Li, Xiaochun; Zhang, Zhixiang; Du, Caigan; Wang, Hao

2015-02-01

Cold ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a major cause of graft failure in lung transplantation. Despite therapeutic benefits of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in attenuating acute lung injury, their protection of lung transplants from cold IRI remains elusive. The present study was to test the efficacy of MSCs in the prevention of cold IRI using a novel murine model of orthotopic lung transplantation. Donor lungs from C57BL/6 mice were exposed to 6 h of cold ischemia before transplanted to syngeneic recipients. MSCs were isolated from the bone marrows of C57BL/6 mice for recipient treatment. Gas exchange was determined by the measurement of blood oxygenation, and lung injury and inflammation were assessed by histological analyses. Intravenously delivered MSC migration/trafficking to the lung grafts occurred within 4-hours post-transplantation. As compared to untreated controls, the graft arterial blood oxygenation (PaO2/FiO2) capacity was significantly improved in MSC-treated recipients as early as 4 h post-reperfusion and such improvement continued over time. By 72 h, oxygenation reached normal level that was not seen in controls. MSCs treatment conferred significant protection of the grafts from cold IRI and cell apoptosis, which is correlated with less cellular infiltration, a decrease in proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and toll-like receptor 4, and an increase in anti-inflammatory TSG-6 generation. MSCs provide significant protection against cold IRI in lung transplants, and thus may be a promising strategy to improve outcomes after lung transplantation.

Primary iris claw IOL retrofixation with intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide in cases of inadequate capsular support.

PubMed

Kelkar, Aditya; Shah, Rachana; Vasavda, Viraj; Kelkar, Jai; Kelkar, Shreekant

2018-02-01

To assess the outcomes and analyze complication rates following primary iris claw IOL retrofixation with intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide. This is a retrospective interventional case series. Patients with poor capsular support-diagnosed preoperatively or owing to intraoperative complications-were treated with iris claw IOL retrofixation with intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide. The data were retrospectively analyzed. 104 eyes of 102 patients with poor capsular support who underwent the procedure between 2010 and 2013 were analyzed. The minimum follow-up period was 12 months (ranging from 12 to 36 months). Iris claw IOL was implanted in-traumatic subluxated cataracts-24 cases (23.07%), non-traumatic subluxated cataracts in 16 cases (15.38%), or as a complication of cataract surgery-intraoperative posterior capsular rent in 48 cases (46.15%) and intraoperative nucleus drop in 16 cases (15.38%). The final mean best-corrected logMAR visual acuity improved from 1.36 ± 0.64 preoperatively to 0.36 ± 0.32 at 1-year follow-up. Complications included pupil ovalization in 11 cases (10.57%), transient elevation in intraocular pressure in 7 eyes (6.73%), postoperative hypotony in 5 eyes (4.80%), cystoid macular edema in 2 eyes (1.92%), retinal detachment in 1 eye (0.96%), vitreous hemorrhage in 1 eye (0.96%), and hyphema in 1 eye (0.96%). Primary iris claw IOL retrofixation provided excellent alternative in patients with inadequate capsular support. The visual outcomes were good along with favorable rates of complications. The addition of triamcinolone acetonide helps in reducing the chances of cystoid macular edema.

Donor Brain Death Exacerbates Complement-Dependent Ischemia Reperfusion Injury in Transplanted Hearts

PubMed Central

Atkinson, Carl; Floerchinger, Bernhard; Qiao, Fei; Casey, Sarah; Williamson, Tucker; Moseley, Ellen; Stoica, Serban; Goddard, Martin; Ge, Xupeng; Tullius, Stefan G.; Tomlinson, Stephen

2013-01-01

Background Brain death (BD) can immunologically prime the donor organ and is thought to lead to exacerbated ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) post-transplantation. Using a newly developed mouse model of BD, we investigated the effect of donor BD on post transplant cardiac IRI. We further investigated the therapeutic effect of a targeted complement inhibitor in recipients of BD donor hearts, and addressed the clinical relevance of these studies by analysis of human heart biopsies from BD and domino (living) donors. Methods and Results Hearts from living or brain dead donor C57BL/6 mice were transplanted into C57BL/6 or BALB/c recipients. Recipient mice were treated with the complement inhibitor CR2-Crry or vehicle control (n=6). Isografts were analyzed 48 hours post-transplant for injury, inflammation and complement deposition, and allografts monitored for graft survival. Human cardiac biopsies were analyzed for complement deposition and inflammatory cell infiltration. In the murine model, donor BD exacerbated IRI and graft rejection as demonstrated by increased myocardial injury, serum cardiac troponin, cellular infiltration, inflammatory chemokine and cytokine levels, complement deposition, and decreased graft survival. CR2-Crry treatment of recipients significantly reduced all measured outcomes in grafts from both BD and living donors compared to controls. Analysis of human samples documented the relevance of our experimental findings and revealed exacerbated complement deposition and inflammation in grafts from BD donors compared to grafts from living donors. Conclusions BD exacerbates post-transplant cardiac IRI in mice and humans, and decreases survival of mouse allografts. Further, targeted complement inhibition in recipient mice ameliorates BD-exacerbated IRI. PMID:23443736

Corneal Crosslinking With Rose Bengal and Green Light: Efficacy and Safety Evaluation.

PubMed

Zhu, Hong; Alt, Clemens; Webb, Robert H; Melki, Samir; Kochevar, Irene E

2016-09-01

To evaluate crosslinking of cornea in vivo using green light activation of Rose Bengal (RGX) and assess potential damaging effects of the green light on retina and iris. Corneas of Dutch belted rabbits were de-epithelialized, then stained with Rose Bengal and exposed to green light, or not further treated. Corneal stiffness was measured by uniaxial tensiometry. Re-epithelialization was assessed by fluorescein fluorescence. Keratocytes were counted on hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)-stained sections, and iris cell damage was assessed by lactate dehydrogenase staining. Thermal effects on the blood-retinal barrier (BRB) were assessed by fluorescein angiography and those on photoreceptors, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and choriocapillaris by light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. RGX (10-min irradiation; 150 J/cm) increased corneal stiffness 1.9-fold on day 1 (1.25 ± 0.21 vs. 2.38 ± 0.59 N/mm; P = 0.036) and 2.8-fold compared with controls on day 28 (1.70 ± 0.74 vs. 4.95 ± 1.86 N/mm; P = 0.003). Keratocytes decreased only in the anterior stroma on day 1 (24.0 ± 3.0 vs. 3.67 ± 4.73, P = 0.003) and recovered by day 28 (37.7 ± 8.9 vs. 34.5 ± 2.4, P = 0.51). Iris cells were not thermally damaged. No evidence of BRB breakdown was detected on days 1 or 28. Retina from RGX-treated eyes seemed normal with RPE cells showing intact nuclei shielded apically by melanosomes, morphologically intact photoreceptor outer segments, normal outer nuclear layer thickness, and choriocapillaris containing intact erythrocytes. The substantial corneal stiffening produced by RGX together with the lack of significant effects on keratocytes and no evidence for retina or iris damage suggest that RGX-initiated corneal crosslinking may be a safe, rapid, and effective treatment.

Management of dislocated intraocular lenses with iris suture.

PubMed

Faria, Mun Y; Ferreira, Nuno P; Canastro, Mario

2017-01-19

Subluxated or malpositioned intraocular lenses (IOLs) and inadequate capsular support is a challenge for every ophthalmic surgeon. Iris suture of an IOL seems to be an easy technique for the management of dislocated 3-piece IOL, allowing the IOL to be placed behind the iris, far from the trabecular meshwork and corneal endothelium. The purpose of this study is to assess the results of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and iris suture of dislocated 3-piece acrylic IOLs. In this retrospective, nonrandomized, interventional case consecutive study, of a total of 103 dislocated IOLs, 36 eyes were considered for analysis. All 36 eyes had subluxated or totally luxated 3-piece IOL and underwent iris suture at the Ophthalmology Department of Santa Maria Hospital-North Lisbon Hospital Center, Portugal, from January 2011 until November 2015. All patients underwent 3-port 23-G PPV. The optic zone of the dislocated IOL was placed anterior to the iris with the haptics behind, in the posterior chamber. Haptics were sutured to iris followed by placement of the optics behind iris plane. Postoperative measures included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), IOL position, intraocular pressure, pigment dispersion, clinical signs of endothelial cell loss, and development of macular edema. A total of 36 eyes of 36 patients were included. All underwent successful iris fixation of dislocated 3-piece IOL. Mean overall follow-up was 15.9 months (range 3-58 months). At presentation, 16 eyes (44.4%) had a luxated IOL and 20 eyes (55.6%) a subluxated IOL. As underlying cause, 17 eyes (47.2%) had a history of complicated cataract surgery, 5 eyes (13.9%) had a traumatic dislocation of the IOL, and 6 eyes (16.7%) had a previous vitreoretinal surgery. A total of 8 eyes (22.2%) had late spontaneous IOL dislocation after uneventful cataract surgery. The mean preoperative BCVA was 1.09 ± 0.70 logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution (logMAR) units and mean postoperative BCVA was 0.48 ± 0.58 of logMAR units. The mean visual acuity improvement was 4.08 ± 5.33 lines on the logMAR scale. In this study, every IOL was stable at the last follow-up. As late complications, macular edema occurred in 1 patient and retinal detachment occurred in 2 patients. There were no cases of endophthalmitis. Iris suture fixation of subluxated IOL is a good treatment option for eyes with dislocated IOLs, leading to long-term stability of the IOL. The advantage of this procedure is using the same IOL in a closed eye surgery. No astigmatic difference is expected as no large corneal incision is needed.

Integration of Research Into Science-outreach (IRIS): A Video and Web-based Approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clay, P. L.; O'Driscoll, B.

2013-12-01

The development of the IRIS (Integration of Research Into Science-outreach) initiative is aimed at using field- and laboratory- based videos and blog entries to enable a sustained outreach relationship between university researchers and local classrooms. IRIS seeks to communicate complex, cutting-edge scientific research in the Earth and Planetary sciences to school-aged children in a simple and interesting manner, in the hope of ameliorating the overall decline of children entering into science and engineering fields in future generations. The primary method of delivery IRIS utilizes is the media of film, ';webinars' and blog entries. Filmed sequences of laboratory work, field work, science demos and mini webinars on current and relevant material in the Earth and Planetary sciences are ';subscribed' to by local schools. Selected sequences are delivered in 20-30 minute film segments with accompanying written material. The level at which the subject matter is currently geared is towards secondary level school-aged children, with the purpose of inspiring and encouraging curiosity, learning and development in scientific research. The video broadcasts are supplemented by a hands-on visit 1-2 times per year by a group of scientists participating in the filmed sequences to the subscribing class, with the objective of engaging and establishing a natural rapport between the class and the scientists that they see in the broadcasts. This transgresses boundaries that traditional 'one off' outreach platforms often aren't able to achieve. The initial results of the IRIS outreach initiative including successes, problems encountered and classroom feedback will be reported.

Small incision iris tumour biopsy using a cavernous sampling forceps.

PubMed

Chronopoulos, Argyrios; Kilic, Ergin; Joussen, Antonia M; Lipski, Andreas

2014-11-01

The aim of this retrospective report is to describe our experience with the Essen-23G biopsy forceps (Akgül forceps) for biopsies of pigmented iris tumours. In this retrospective study of cases between October 2012 and September 2013, patients with iris tumours and clinical signs for malignancy underwent biopsy to secure the diagnosis. The Essen-23G-forceps was used to grasp and extract tissue through a clear corneal incision. Eventual entry and bimanual manipulation with a 23G mini-scissors was achieved through a second incision. Tissue samples were fixed in a sterile tube for further histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluation. Seven eyes of seven patients underwent biopsy using the forceps. The average thickness of the iris tumours was 1.07±0.79 mm. A second corneal incision for scissoring in a bimanual technique was necessary in 5 cases (71%). In 6 cases (85%), a precise histological and immunohistochemical diagnosis was achieved. Complications were limited to minute bleeding at the biopsy site and one case of relative pupil enlargement (anisocoria) without further refractive issues. Iris tumour biopsies can be successfully approached using a cavernous 23G intraocular forceps with a low risk for procedure-related complications. The conical interior design allows for removal of whole tissue pieces with minimal manipulative artefacts. An optional bimanual access through a second corneal incision and use of a 23G scissors provides better efficacy. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Using EO-1 Hyperion to Simulate HyspIRI Products for a Coniferous Forest: The Fraction of PAR Absorbed by Chlorophyll (fAPAR(sub chl)) and Leaf Water Content(LWC)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zhang, Qingyuan; Middleton, Elizabeth M.; Gao, Bo-Cai; Cheng, Yen-Ben

2012-01-01

This paper presents development of prototype products for terrestrial ecosystems in preparation for the future imaging spectrometer planned for the Hyperspectral Infrared Imager (HyspIRI) mission. We present a successful demonstration example in a coniferous forest of two product prototypes: fraction of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) absorbed by chlorophyll of a canopy (fAPARchl) and leaf water content (LWC), for future HyspIRI implementation at 60-m spatial resolution. For this, we used existing 30-m resolution imaging spectrometer data available from the Earth Observing One (EO-1) Hyperion satellite to simulate and prototype the level one radiometrically corrected radiance (L1R) images expected from the HyspIRI visible through shortwave infrared spectrometer. The HyspIRIlike images were atmospherically corrected to obtain surface reflectance and spectrally resampled to produce 60-m reflectance images for wavelength regions that were comparable to all seven of the MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) land bands. Thus, we developed MODIS-like surface reflectance in seven spectral bands at the HyspIRI-like spatial scale, which was utilized to derive fAPARchl and LWC with a coupled canopy-leaf radiative transfer model (PROSAIL2) for the coniferous forest. With this paper, we provide additional evidence that the fAPARchl product is more realistic in describing the physiologically active canopy than the traditional fAPAR parameter for the whole canopy (fAPARcanopy), and thus, it should replace it in ecosystem process models to reduce uncertainties in terrestrial carbon cycle and ecosystem studies.

Forging a link between mentoring and collaboration: a new training model for implementation science.

PubMed

Luke, Douglas A; Baumann, Ana A; Carothers, Bobbi J; Landsverk, John; Proctor, Enola K

2016-10-13

Training investigators for the rapidly developing field of implementation science requires both mentoring and scientific collaboration. Using social network descriptive analyses, visualization, and modeling, this paper presents results of an evaluation of the mentoring and collaborations fostered over time through the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) supported by Implementation Research Institute (IRI). Data were comprised of IRI participant self-reported collaborations and mentoring relationships, measured in three annual surveys from 2012 to 2014. Network descriptive statistics, visualizations, and network statistical modeling were conducted to examine patterns of mentoring and collaboration among IRI participants and to model the relationship between mentoring and subsequent collaboration. Findings suggest that IRI is successful in forming mentoring relationships among its participants, and that these mentoring relationships are related to future scientific collaborations. Exponential random graph network models demonstrated that mentoring received in 2012 was positively and significantly related to the likelihood of having a scientific collaboration 2 years later in 2014 (p = 0.001). More specifically, mentoring was significantly related to future collaborations focusing on new research (p = 0.009), grant submissions (p = 0.003), and publications (p = 0.017). Predictions based on the network model suggest that for every additional mentoring relationships established in 2012, the likelihood of a scientific collaboration 2 years later is increased by almost 7 %. These results support the importance of mentoring in implementation science specifically and team science more generally. Mentoring relationships were established quickly and early by the IRI core faculty. IRI fellows reported increasing scientific collaboration of all types over time, including starting new research, submitting new grants, presenting research results, and publishing peer-reviewed papers. Statistical network models demonstrated that mentoring was strongly and significantly related to subsequent scientific collaboration, which supported a core design principle of the IRI. Future work should establish the link between mentoring and scientific productivity. These results may be of interest to team science, as they suggest the importance of mentoring for future team collaborations, as well as illustrate the utility of network analysis for studying team characteristics and activities.

Staphyloma in a cat.

PubMed

Skorobohach, Brian J; Hendrix, Diane V H

2003-06-01

A unilateral scleral staphyloma in an 18-month-old, female spayed Domestic Short-haired cat was treated with excision, primary closure and fascial graft. Other ocular abnormalities noted on examination included iris coloboma, anterior cortical cataract, focal lens equator flattening and retinal dysplasia. The staphyloma was presumed to be congenital in origin.

Effect of N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester on intestinal permeability following intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury in a rat model.

PubMed

Luo, C C; Chen, H M; Chiu, C H; Lin, J N; Chen, J C

2001-07-01

Subclinical intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) causes an increase in mucosal permeability and may represent an early event in the pathogenesis of necrotizing enterocolitis in premature infants. Previous studies suggested that continuous, endogenous formation of nitric oxide (NO) maintains the mucosal integrity of the intestine, thus protecting the gut from injuries from blood-borne toxins and tissue-destructive mediators. This study was undertaken to assess whether the inhibition of NO production causes an increase in intestinal permeability in rats following IRI. Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 200-300 g were divided into 4 groups: (1) untreated group (normal control); (2) ischemia-reperfusion group; (3) early N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), a specific inhibitor of NO production, treatment group, and (4) late L-NAME treatment group. Transient IRI was induced by 30-min occlusion, followed by reperfusion of the isolated ileal loop. The L-NAME was administered 15 min before and after mesenteric ischemia as a 25-mg/kg bolus. Fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (FITC-D) was used to quantitatively assess the alteration in mucosal permeability of the intestine. There was no significant increase in the portal vein FITC-D level among normal controls, ischemia-reperfusion group and late L-NAME-treated group, but there was an approximately 6-fold increase in the early L-NAME treatment group. The pathological features of the intestine following IRI include denudation of the villus epithelium and reduction of villus height, associated with marked inflammatory cell infiltration over the lamina propria. These results suggest that endogenous NO may play a role in the protecting intestinal integrity after IRI. Copyright 2001 S. Karger AG, Basel

FAQs about IRIs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Paris, Scott G.; Carpenter, Robert D.

2003-01-01

Provides information about informal reading inventories (IRI), an early reading assessment. Explains what IRIs are; who should administer an IRI; when and how to administer an IRI; the reliability of data from IRIs; and the limitations of IRIs. (PM)

5-Fluorouracil for epithelial downgrowth after Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty.

PubMed

Wong, Ryan K; Greene, Daniel P; Shield, David R; Eberhart, Charles G; Huang, John J; Shayegani, Aryan

2013-12-01

To report the use of intracameral 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) to treat epithelial downgrowth after performing a Descemet-stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK). We describe the case of a 79-year-old woman who underwent a DSAEK for pseudophakic Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. The patient required 2 repeat DSAEKs for graft failure and persistent, visually significant interface haze. Six months after the third and most recent DSAEK, the patient was followed up and found to have a visual acuity of 20/100. On examination, the patient continued to have a persistent interface haze. However, the patient also had a cellular anterior chamber reaction despite the administration of frequent topical corticosteroids, and subtle findings of a translucent, membranous growth over the iris. Argon laser photocoagulation of the area resulted in a whitening response, characteristic of epithelial growth. Epithelial downgrowth was diagnosed, and intracameral 5-FU was administered. One month after the injection was given, the patient's examination results and vision improved to 20/60. Six months after the single injection, the patient had a clear DSAEK graft without interface haze, a quiet chamber, and 20/30 visual acuity. Epithelial downgrowth that occurs after performing a DSAEK can be treated successfully using intracameral 5-FU.

Iris Image Classification Based on Hierarchical Visual Codebook.

PubMed

Zhenan Sun; Hui Zhang; Tieniu Tan; Jianyu Wang

2014-06-01

Iris recognition as a reliable method for personal identification has been well-studied with the objective to assign the class label of each iris image to a unique subject. In contrast, iris image classification aims to classify an iris image to an application specific category, e.g., iris liveness detection (classification of genuine and fake iris images), race classification (e.g., classification of iris images of Asian and non-Asian subjects), coarse-to-fine iris identification (classification of all iris images in the central database into multiple categories). This paper proposes a general framework for iris image classification based on texture analysis. A novel texture pattern representation method called Hierarchical Visual Codebook (HVC) is proposed to encode the texture primitives of iris images. The proposed HVC method is an integration of two existing Bag-of-Words models, namely Vocabulary Tree (VT), and Locality-constrained Linear Coding (LLC). The HVC adopts a coarse-to-fine visual coding strategy and takes advantages of both VT and LLC for accurate and sparse representation of iris texture. Extensive experimental results demonstrate that the proposed iris image classification method achieves state-of-the-art performance for iris liveness detection, race classification, and coarse-to-fine iris identification. A comprehensive fake iris image database simulating four types of iris spoof attacks is developed as the benchmark for research of iris liveness detection.

Reproductive isolation between populations of Iris atropurpurea is associated with ecological differentiation

PubMed Central

Yardeni, Gil; Tessler, Naama; Imbert, Eric; Sapir, Yuval

2016-01-01

Background and Aims Speciation is often described as a continuous dynamic process, expressed by different magnitudes of reproductive isolation (RI) among groups in different levels of divergence. Studying intraspecific partial RI can shed light on mechanisms underlying processes of population divergence. Intraspecific divergence can be driven by spatially stochastic accumulation of genetic differences following reduced gene flow, resulting in increased RI with increased geographical distance, or by local adaptation, resulting in increased RI with environmental difference. Methods We tested for RI as a function of both geographical distance and ecological differentiation in Iris atropurpurea, an endemic Israeli coastal plant. We crossed plants in the Netanya Iris Reserve population with plants from 14 populations across the species’ full distribution, and calculated RI and reproductive success based on fruit set, seed set and fraction of seed viability. Key Results We found that total RI was not significantly associated with geographical distance, but significantly increased with ecological distance. Similarly, reproductive success of the crosses, estimated while controlling for the dependency of each component on the previous stage, significantly reduced with increased ecological distance. Conclusions Our results indicate that the rise of post-pollination reproductive barriers in I. atropurpurea is more affected by ecological differentiation between populations than by geographical distance, supporting the hypothesis that ecological differentiation is predominant over isolation by distance and by reduced gene flow in this species. These findings also affect conservation management, such as genetic rescue, in the highly fragmented and endangered I. atropurpurea. PMID:27436798

Modeling Chinese ionospheric layer parameters based on EOF analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, You; Wan, Weixing; Xiong, Bo; Ren, Zhipeng; Zhao, Biqiang; Zhang, Yun; Ning, Baiqi; Liu, Libo

2015-05-01

Using 24-ionosonde observations in and around China during the 20th solar cycle, an assimilative model is constructed to map the ionospheric layer parameters (foF2, hmF2, M(3000)F2, and foE) over China based on empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis. First, we decompose the background maps from the International Reference Ionosphere model 2007 (IRI-07) into different EOF modes. The obtained EOF modes consist of two factors: the EOF patterns and the corresponding EOF amplitudes. These two factors individually reflect the spatial distributions (e.g., the latitudinal dependence such as the equatorial ionization anomaly structure and the longitude structure with east-west difference) and temporal variations on different time scales (e.g., solar cycle, annual, semiannual, and diurnal variations) of the layer parameters. Then, the EOF patterns and long-term observations of ionosondes are assimilated to get the observed EOF amplitudes, which are further used to construct the Chinese Ionospheric Maps (CIMs) of the layer parameters. In contrast with the IRI-07 model, the mapped CIMs successfully capture the inherent temporal and spatial variations of the ionospheric layer parameters. Finally, comparison of the modeled (EOF and IRI-07 model) and observed values reveals that the EOF model reproduces the observation with smaller root-mean-square errors and higher linear correlation coefficients. In addition, IRI discrepancy at the low latitude especially for foF2 is effectively removed by EOF model.

Modeling Chinese ionospheric layer parameters based on EOF analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, You; Wan, Weixing

2016-04-01

Using 24-ionosonde observations in and around China during the 20th solar cycle, an assimilative model is constructed to map the ionospheric layer parameters (foF2, hmF2, M(3000)F2, and foE) over China based on empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis. First, we decompose the background maps from the International Reference Ionosphere model 2007 (IRI-07) into different EOF modes. The obtained EOF modes consist of two factors: the EOF patterns and the corresponding EOF amplitudes. These two factors individually reflect the spatial distributions (e.g., the latitudinal dependence such as the equatorial ionization anomaly structure and the longitude structure with east-west difference) and temporal variations on different time scales (e.g., solar cycle, annual, semiannual, and diurnal variations) of the layer parameters. Then, the EOF patterns and long-term observations of ionosondes are assimilated to get the observed EOF amplitudes, which are further used to construct the Chinese Ionospheric Maps (CIMs) of the layer parameters. In contrast with the IRI-07 model, the mapped CIMs successfully capture the inherent temporal and spatial variations of the ionospheric layer parameters. Finally, comparison of the modeled (EOF and IRI-07 model) and observed values reveals that the EOF model reproduces the observation with smaller root-mean-square errors and higher linear correlation co- efficients. In addition, IRI discrepancy at the low latitude especially for foF2 is effectively removed by EOF model.

Evaluation of a recirculating pond system for rearing juvenile freshwater mussels at White Sulphur Springs National Fish Hatchery, West Virginia, U.S.A.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mummert, A.; Newcomb, T.J.; Neves, R.J.; Parker, B.

2006-01-01

A recirculating double-pond system at White Sulphur Springs National Fish Hatchery in West Virginia, U.S.A., was evaluated for suitability for culturing juvenile freshwater mussels. Newly metamorphosed juveniles of Villosa iris and Lampsilis fasciola were placed in the system, and their growth and survival were evaluated for 94 days. Throughout the study, parameters of water quality remained within ranges suitable for mussel survival. Planktonic algal densities in the pond system ranged from 2850 to 6892 cells/ml. Thirty-seven algal taxa were identified, primarily green algae (Chlorophyta), diatoms (Bacillariophyceae), and blue-green algae (Cyanoprokaryota). Over the culture period, juveniles of L. fasciola experienced significantly lower (p < 0.001) survival (6.3% ?? 4.5) than those of V. iris (49.8% ?? 14.5). The very low survival rate of L. fasciola may indicate a failure of the flow-through pond environment to meet its habitat requirements or that variable microhabitat conditions within culture containers existed. Growth did not differ significantly between the species (p = 0.13). Survival of V. iris and growth of both species were similar to previous trials to culture juvenile mussels. Survival rates as high as 66.4% at 93 days for V. iris suggest that juveniles of some riverine species can be successfully cultured in a recirculating pond environment.

Monitoring of renal ischemia reperfusion injury in rabbits by ultrasonic contrast and its relationship with expression of VEGF in renal tissue.

PubMed

Hao, Peng

2016-02-01

To evaluate the renal ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) in rabbits using the ultrasonic contrast technique and discuss the clinical value of ultrasonic contrast technique in the diagnosis of renal IRI by comparing the time-intensity curve of renal cortex and the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) of renal tissue. Twenty 3-month-old New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into 4 groups, namely Ctrl group, IRI-12 h, IRI-24 h and IRI-48 h groups. The two dimensional gray-scale ultrasonography was employed to determine and mark the position of rabbit kidney. Rabbits were given the intraperitoneal anesthesia with 20% urethane with the dosage of 5 mL/kg. The aseptic operation was performed after the local skin disinfection in the area of both kidneys. The right kidney of animals in the control group was excised without any treatment for the left kidney. After excising the right kidney of animals in groups of IRI-12 h, IRI-24 h and IRI-48 h, the aneurysm clip was used to clip the renal pedicle vessel of left kidney, in order to simulate the ischemia. Because of the tissue ischemia, it could be seen that the color of kidney was changed from bright red to dark red, which indicated the successful modeling of ischemia. The aneurysm clip was released after one hour of maintaining the ischemia. Then the kidney turned out to be bright red from dark red, which indicated that the reperfusion was completed. Taking this moment as the time of ischemia reperfusion, the wound was stitched up. A total of 12, 24 and 36 h after the operation, the two-dimensional and color Doppler flow imaging and ultrasonic contrast were employed for the examination. The dynamic changes of ultrasonic contrast were recorded. The quantitative analysis software (QontraXt) was adopted to analyze the time-intensity curve of echo at different positions of renal cortex. After the ultrasonic contrast testing, rabbits were put to death. The renal cortex tissue was isolated and the tissue RNA and total protein were extracted respectively. Real-time PCR and western blotting were used to detect the VEGF and the Pearson product moment correlation coefficient was used to measure the linear relationship between these two variables. The ultrasonic contrast could clearly reflect the process of IRI. The results of testing at mRNA and protein level indicated that the expression of VEGF in IRI groups was significantly increased (P < 0.05) and the expression of VEGF was also increased by the time of reperfusion. There is the certain correlation between the expression of VEGF and process of IRI. The correlation coefficient between the ultrasonic contrast parameters of AT and TTP and the relative expression of VEGF is over 0.9, which indicates the relatively high correlation. But there is no significant difference in the change of perfusion peak intensity between groups, which has no correlation with the expression of VEGF. Copyright © 2016 Hainan Medical College. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Direct protein detection with a nano-interdigitated array gate MOSFET.

PubMed

Tang, Xiaohui; Jonas, Alain M; Nysten, Bernard; Demoustier-Champagne, Sophie; Blondeau, Franoise; Prévot, Pierre-Paul; Pampin, Rémi; Godfroid, Edmond; Iñiguez, Benjamin; Colinge, Jean-Pierre; Raskin, Jean-Pierre; Flandre, Denis; Bayot, Vincent

2009-08-15

A new protein sensor is demonstrated by replacing the gate of a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) with a nano-interdigitated array (nIDA). The sensor is able to detect the binding reaction of a typical antibody Ixodes ricinus immunosuppressor (anti-Iris) protein at a concentration lower than 1 ng/ml. The sensor exhibits a high selectivity and reproducible specific detection. We provide a simple model that describes the behavior of the sensor and explains the origin of its high sensitivity. The simulated and experimental results indicate that the drain current of nIDA-gate MOSFET sensor is significantly increased with the successive binding of the thiol layer, Iris and anti-Iris protein layers. It is found that the sensor detection limit can be improved by well optimizing the geometrical parameters of nIDA-gate MOSFET. This nanobiosensor, with real-time and label-free capabilities, can easily be used for the detection of other proteins, DNA, virus and cancer markers. Moreover, an on-chip associated electronics nearby the sensor can be integrated since its fabrication is compatible with complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology.

Iris reconstruction combined with iris-claw intraocular lens implantation for the management of iris-lens injured patients.

PubMed

Hu, Shufang; Wang, Mingling; Xiao, Tianlin; Zhao, Zhenquan

2016-03-01

To study the efficiency and safety of iris reconstruction combined with iris-claw intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in the patients with iris-lens injuries. Retrospective, noncomparable consecutive case series study. Eleven patients (11 eyes) following iris-lens injuries underwent iris reconstructions combined with iris-claw IOL implantations. Clinical data, such as cause and time of injury, visual acuity (VA), iris and lens injuries, surgical intervention, follow-up period, corneal endothelial cell count, and optical coherence tomography, were collected. Uncorrected VA (UCVA) in all injured eyes before combined surgery was equal to or <20/1000. Within a 1.1-4.2-year follow-up period, a significant increase, equal to or better than 20/66, in UCVA was observed in six (55%) cases, and in best-corrected VA (BCVA) was observed in nine (82%) cases. Postoperative BCVA was 20/40 or better in seven cases (64%). After combined surgery, the iris returned to its natural round shape or smaller pupil, and the iris-claw IOLs in the 11 eyes were well-positioned on the anterior surface of reconstructed iris. No complications occurred in those patients. Iris reconstruction combined with iris-claw IOL implantation is a safe and efficient procedure for an eye with iris-lens injury in the absence of capsular support.

Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty in cases with existing scleral-sutured and iris-sutured intraocular lenses

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background To report two cases of Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) in patients with existing scleral-fixated and iris-fixated intraocular lenses (sf-IOL and if-IOL, respectively). Case presentation DMEK procedures were performed on a 49-year-old woman with a pre-existing sf-IOL (case 1) and a 69-year-old woman with a pre-existing if-IOL (case 2) in order to treat secondary corneal edema due to pseudophakic bullous keratopathy. Visual acuity, refractive error, intraocular pressure, slit lamp examination, pachymetry measurements and endothelial cell density (ECD) were considered and repeated during follow-ups. Both cases had no intraoperative complications. At postoperative day 1 graft centration and complete attachment were noted. The IOL positions were unchanged in comparison to their preoperative positions. In case 1, visual acuity improved from 1/15 at 1 meter preoperative to 20/200 within one week and to 20/63 within 12 weeks of follow up. In case 2, visual acuity improved from counting fingers at 1 meter preoperative to 20/200 within one week and to 20/100 within 12 weeks of follow-up. In case 2 a partial graft dislocation was observed at postoperative day twenty. Complete graft re-apposition was achieved by rebubbling procedure performed with intracameral air injection. Conclusions DMEK surgery in the treatment of pseudophakic bullous keratopathy in the presence of sf-IOL and if-IOL can successfully be performed. These eyes are at increased risk of IOL dislocation into the vitreous cavity during DMEK surgery. PMID:24443809

Comparing the efficacy of mydriatic cocktail-soaked sponge and conventional pupil dilation in patients using tamsulosin - a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Hargitai, János; Vezendi, László; Vigstrup, Jørgen; Eisgart, Finn; Lundbye-Christensen, Søren; Hargitai, Bálint; Vorum, Henrik

2013-12-20

A strong association exists between the use of tamsulosin and the occurance of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome. Several methods were advocated to overcome the progressive intraopertive miosis.Our purpose was to investigate the effect of a mydriatic-cocktail soaked cellulose sponge on perioperative pupil diameter in tamsulosin-treated patients undergoing elective cataract surgery. Patients using tamsulosin were dilated either with mydriatic-cocktail soaked sponge (group 1) or with conventional eyedrop regimen (group 2). Control patients not taking any α1 adrenergic receptor inhibtors were also dilated with mydriatic sponge (group 3).In all groups oxybuprocain 0.4%, cocain 4%, tropicamide 1%, phenylephrine 10%, diclophenac 0.1% along with chloramphenicol 0.5% were used preoperatively.Pupil diameter (mm) was measured preoperatively, after nucleus delivery, and before IOL implantation. Adverse effects associated with the use of sponge, minor and major intraoperative complications, the use of iris retractors and operation time were recorded.Differences in general between groups were analyzed with a one way analysis of variance (ANOVA); differences between groups in proportions were assessed by Fisher's exact test. Mean pupil diameter (mm) was preopertively: 7.52 ± 1.21, 7.30 ± 1.55 and 7.99 ± 0.96 (ANOVA: p = 0.079); after nucleus delivery: 6 ± 1.20, 6.29 ± 1.12 and 6.52 ± 0.81 (ANOVA: p = 0.123); before IOL implantation: 5.46 ± 1.06, 5.83 ± 1.09 and 6.17 ± 0.89 (ANOVA: p = 0.0291).No adverse effect related to sponge use was detected. Frequency of minor complications, and iris hook use was similar in the two tamsulosin treated group. Operation time did not differ significantly in the three groups. We have found that using a mydriatic cocktail-soaked wick - an alternative way to achieve intraoperative mydriasis for cataract surgery - was as effective and safe as the conventional repeated eyedrops regiment for tamsulosin treated patients. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN37834752.

Three-Dimensional Morphometric Analysis of the Iris by Swept-Source Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography in a Caucasian Population.

PubMed

Invernizzi, Alessandro; Giardini, Piero; Cigada, Mario; Viola, Francesco; Staurenghi, Giovanni

2015-07-01

We analyzed by swept-source anterior segment optical coherence tomography (SS-ASOCT) the three-dimensional iris morphology in a Caucasian population, and correlated the findings with iris color, iris sectors, subject age, and sex. One eye each from consecutive healthy emmetropic (refractive spherical equivalent ± 3 diopters) volunteers were selected for the study. The enrolled eye underwent standardized anterior segment photography to assess iris color. Iris images were assessed by SS-ASOCT for volume, thickness, width, and pupil size. Sectoral variations of morphometric data among the superior, nasal, inferior, and temporal sectors were recorded. A total of 135 eyes from 57 males and 78 females, age 49 ± 17 years, fulfilled the inclusion criteria. All iris morphometric parameters varied significantly among the different sectors (all P < 0.0001). Iris total volume and thickness were significantly correlated with increasingly darker pigmentation (P < 0.0001, P = 0.0384, respectively). Neither width nor pupil diameter was influenced by iris color. Age did not affect iris volume or thickness; iris width increased and pupil diameter decreased with age (rs = 0.52, rs = -0.58, respectively). There was no effect of sex on iris volume, thickness, or pupil diameter; iris width was significantly greater in males (P = 0.007). Morphology of the iris varied by iris sector, and iris color was associated with differences in iris volume and thickness. Morphological parameter variations associated with iris color, sector, age, and sex can be used to identify pathological changes in suspect eyes. To be effective in clinical settings, construction of iris morphological databases for different ethnic and racial populations is essential.

Sexual selection for male dominance reduces opportunities for female mate choice in the European bitterling (Rhodeus sericeus).

PubMed

Reichard, M; Bryja, J; Ondracková, M; Dávidová, M; Kaniewska, P; Smith, C

2005-04-01

Sexual selection involves two main mechanisms: intrasexual competition for mates and intersexual mate choice. We experimentally separated intrasexual (male-male interference competition) and intersexual (female choice) components of sexual selection in a freshwater fish, the European bitterling (Rhodeus sericeus). We compared the roles of multiple morphological and behavioural traits in male success in both components of sexual competition, and their relation to male reproductive success, measured as paternity of offspring. Body size was important for both female choice and male-male competition, though females also preferred males that courted more vigorously. However, dominant males often monopolized females regardless of female preference. Subordinate males were not excluded from reproduction and sired some offspring, possibly through sneaked ejaculations. Male dominance and a greater intensity of carotenoid-based red colouration in their iris were the best predictors of male reproductive success. The extent of red iris colouration and parasite load did not have significant effects on female choice, male dominance or male reproductive success. No effect of parasite load on the expression of red eye colouration was detected, though this may have been due to low parasite prevalence in males overall. In conclusion, we showed that even though larger body size was favoured in both intersexual and intrasexual selection, male-male interference competition reduced opportunities for female choice. Females, despite being choosy, had limited control over the paternity of their offspring. Our study highlights the need for reliable measures of male reproductive success in studies of sexual selection.

Long anterior zonules and pigment dispersion.

PubMed

Moroi, Sayoko E; Lark, Kurt K; Sieving, Paul A; Nouri-Mahdavi, Kouros; Schlötzer-Schrehardt, Ursula; Katz, Gregory J; Ritch, Robert

2003-12-01

To describe pigment dispersion associated with long anterior zonules. Multicenter observational case series. Fifteen patients, seven of whom were treated for glaucoma or ocular hypertension, were identified with long anterior zonules and pigment dispersion. Transmission electron microscopy was performed on one anterior capsule specimen. All patients had anterior zonules that inserted centrally on the lens capsule. Signs of pigment dispersion included corneal endothelial pigmentation, loss of the pupillary ruff, and variable trabecular meshwork pigmentation. Ultrasound biomicroscopy verified the lack of posterior iris insertion and concavity. There was no exfoliation material. Transmission electron microscopy showed zonular lamellae with adherent pigment granules, and no exfoliation material. Long anterior zonules inserted onto the central lens capsule may cause mechanical disruption of the pigment epithelium at the pupillary ruff and central iris leading to pigment dispersion.

Iris reconstruction combined with iris-claw intraocular lens implantation for the management of iris-lens injured patients

PubMed Central

Hu, Shufang; Wang, Mingling; Xiao, Tianlin; Zhao, Zhenquan

2016-01-01

Aim: To study the efficiency and safety of iris reconstruction combined with iris-claw intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in the patients with iris-lens injuries. Settings and Design: Retrospective, noncomparable consecutive case series study. Materials and Methods: Eleven patients (11 eyes) following iris-lens injuries underwent iris reconstructions combined with iris-claw IOL implantations. Clinical data, such as cause and time of injury, visual acuity (VA), iris and lens injuries, surgical intervention, follow-up period, corneal endothelial cell count, and optical coherence tomography, were collected. Results: Uncorrected VA (UCVA) in all injured eyes before combined surgery was equal to or <20/1000. Within a 1.1–4.2-year follow-up period, a significant increase, equal to or better than 20/66, in UCVA was observed in six (55%) cases, and in best-corrected VA (BCVA) was observed in nine (82%) cases. Postoperative BCVA was 20/40 or better in seven cases (64%). After combined surgery, the iris returned to its natural round shape or smaller pupil, and the iris-claw IOLs in the 11 eyes were well-positioned on the anterior surface of reconstructed iris. No complications occurred in those patients. Conclusions: Iris reconstruction combined with iris-claw IOL implantation is a safe and efficient procedure for an eye with iris-lens injury in the absence of capsular support. PMID:27146932

Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Features of Iris Racemose Hemangioma in 4 Cases.

PubMed

Chien, Jason L; Sioufi, Kareem; Ferenczy, Sandor; Say, Emil Anthony T; Shields, Carol L

2017-10-01

Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) allows visualization of iris racemose hemangioma course and its relation to the normal iris microvasculature. To describe OCTA features of iris racemose hemangioma. Descriptive, noncomparative case series at a tertiary referral center (Ocular Oncology Service of Wills Eye Hospital). Patients diagnosed with unilateral iris racemose hemangioma were included in the study. Features of iris racemose hemangioma on OCTA. Four eyes of 4 patients with unilateral iris racemose hemangioma were included in the study. Mean patient age was 50 years, all patients were white, and Snellen visual acuity was 20/20 in each case. All eyes had sectoral iris racemose hemangioma without associated iris or ciliary body solid tumor on clinical examination and ultrasound biomicroscopy. By anterior segment OCT, the racemose hemangioma was partially visualized in all cases. By OCTA, the hemangioma was clearly visualized as a uniform large-caliber vascular tortuous loop with intense flow characteristics superimposed over small-caliber radial iris vessels against a background of low-signal iris stroma. The vascular course on OCTA resembled a light bulb filament (filament sign), arising from the peripheral iris (base of light bulb) and forming a tortuous loop on reaching its peak (midfilament) near the pupil (n = 3) or midzonal iris (n = 1), before returning to the peripheral iris (base of light bulb). Intravenous fluorescein angiography performed in 1 eye depicted the iris hemangioma; however, small-caliber radial iris vessels were more distinct on OCTA than intravenous fluorescein angiography. Optical coherence tomography angiography is a noninvasive vascular imaging modality that clearly depicts the looping course of iris racemose hemangioma. Optical coherence tomography angiography depicted fine details of radial iris vessels, not distinct on intravenous fluorescein angiography.

Iris Crypts Influence Dynamic Changes of Iris Volume.

PubMed

Chua, Jacqueline; Thakku, Sri Gowtham; Tun, Tin A; Nongpiur, Monisha E; Tan, Marcus Chiang Lee; Girard, Michael J A; Wong, Tien Yin; Quah, Joanne Hui Min; Aung, Tin; Cheng, Ching-Yu

2016-10-01

To determine the association of iris surface features with iris volume change after physiologic pupil dilation in adults. Cross-sectional observational study. Chinese adults aged ≥ 50 years without ocular diseases. Digital iris photographs were taken from eyes of each participant and graded for crypts (by number and size) and furrows (by number and circumferential extent) following a standardized grading scheme. Iris color was measured objectively, using the Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE) L* color parameter (higher value denoting lighter iris). The anterior segment was imaged by swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) (Casia; Tomey, Nagoya, Japan) under bright light and dark room conditions. Iris volumes in light and dark conditions were measured with custom semiautomated software, and the change in iris volume was quantified. Associations of the change in iris volume after pupil dilation with underlying iris surface features in right eyes were assessed using linear regression analysis. Iris volume change after physiologic pupil dilation from light to dark condition. A total of 65 Chinese participants (mean age, 59.8±5.7 years) had gradable data for iris surface features. In light condition, higher iris crypt grade was associated independently with smaller iris volume (β [change in iris volume in millimeters per crypt grade increment] = -1.43, 95% confidence interval [CI], -2.26 to -0.59; P = 0.001) and greater reduction of iris volume on pupil dilation (β [change in iris volume in millimeters per crypt grade increment] = 0.23, 95% CI, 0.06-0.40; P = 0.010), adjusting for age, gender, presence of corneal arcus, and change in pupil size. Iris furrows and iris color were not associated with iris volume in light condition or change in iris volume (all P > 0.05). Although few Chinese persons have multiple crypts on their irides, irides with more crypts were significantly thinner and lost more volume on pupil dilation. In view that the latter feature is known to be protective for acute angle-closure attack, it is likely that the macroscopic and microscopic composition of the iris is a contributing feature to angle-closure disease. Copyright © 2016 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fuzzy difference-of-Gaussian-based iris recognition method for noisy iris images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Byung Jun; Park, Kang Ryoung; Yoo, Jang-Hee; Moon, Kiyoung

2010-06-01

Iris recognition is used for information security with a high confidence level because it shows outstanding recognition accuracy by using human iris patterns with high degrees of freedom. However, iris recognition accuracy can be reduced by noisy iris images with optical and motion blurring. We propose a new iris recognition method based on the fuzzy difference-of-Gaussian (DOG) for noisy iris images. This study is novel in three ways compared to previous works: (1) The proposed method extracts iris feature values using the DOG method, which is robust to local variations of illumination and shows fine texture information, including various frequency components. (2) When determining iris binary codes, image noises that cause the quantization error of the feature values are reduced with the fuzzy membership function. (3) The optimal parameters of the DOG filter and the fuzzy membership function are determined in terms of iris recognition accuracy. Experimental results showed that the performance of the proposed method was better than that of previous methods for noisy iris images.

Enhanced iris recognition method based on multi-unit iris images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shin, Kwang Yong; Kim, Yeong Gon; Park, Kang Ryoung

2013-04-01

For the purpose of biometric person identification, iris recognition uses the unique characteristics of the patterns of the iris; that is, the eye region between the pupil and the sclera. When obtaining an iris image, the iris's image is frequently rotated because of the user's head roll toward the left or right shoulder. As the rotation of the iris image leads to circular shifting of the iris features, the accuracy of iris recognition is degraded. To solve this problem, conventional iris recognition methods use shifting of the iris feature codes to perform the matching. However, this increases the computational complexity and level of false acceptance error. To solve these problems, we propose a novel iris recognition method based on multi-unit iris images. Our method is novel in the following five ways compared with previous methods. First, to detect both eyes, we use Adaboost and a rapid eye detector (RED) based on the iris shape feature and integral imaging. Both eyes are detected using RED in the approximate candidate region that consists of the binocular region, which is determined by the Adaboost detector. Second, we classify the detected eyes into the left and right eyes, because the iris patterns in the left and right eyes in the same person are different, and they are therefore considered as different classes. We can improve the accuracy of iris recognition using this pre-classification of the left and right eyes. Third, by measuring the angle of head roll using the two center positions of the left and right pupils, detected by two circular edge detectors, we obtain the information of the iris rotation angle. Fourth, in order to reduce the error and processing time of iris recognition, adaptive bit-shifting based on the measured iris rotation angle is used in feature matching. Fifth, the recognition accuracy is enhanced by the score fusion of the left and right irises. Experimental results on the iris open database of low-resolution images showed that the averaged equal error rate of iris recognition using the proposed method was 4.3006%, which is lower than that of other methods.

Results in Combined Cataract Surgery With Prosthetic Iris Implantation in Patients With Previous Iridocyclectomy for Iris Melanoma.

PubMed

Snyder, Michael E; Osher, Robert H; Wladecki, Trisha M; Perez, Mauricio A; Augsburger, James J; Corrêa, Zélia

2017-03-01

To present visual and functional results following implantation of iris prosthesis combined with cataract surgery in eyes with previous iridocyclectomy for iris melanoma or presumed iris melanoma. Retrospective noncomparative case series. Sixteen patients (16 eyes) with iris defects after iridocyclectomy for iris melanoma in 15 cases and iris adenoma in 1 case underwent prosthetic iris device implantation surgery. Prosthetic iris implantation was combined with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. The visual acuity, subjective glare and photophobia reduction, anatomic outcome, and complications were reviewed. Best-corrected visual acuity was improved in 13 eyes (81.25%), remained stable in 2 eyes (12.25%), and decreased in 1 eye (6.25%). Photophobia and glare improved in every case except for 1 (93.75%). Notably, after surgery 12 patients (75.00%) reported no photophobia and 10 patients (62.50%) reported no glare. The median postoperative follow-up was 29.5 months, with a minimum of 5 months and a maximum of 189 months. All iris devices were in the correct position, and all eyes achieved the desired anatomic result. The IOL optic edges were covered in all areas by either residual iris or opaque portions of a prosthetic iris device. In patients who have undergone previous iridocyclectomy for presumed iris melanoma, combined cataract surgery and iris prosthesis placement, with or without iris reconstruction, can lead to visual improvement as well as reduction of both glare and photophobia. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Trade off between variable and fixed size normalization in orthogonal polynomials based iris recognition system.

PubMed

Krishnamoorthi, R; Anna Poorani, G

2016-01-01

Iris normalization is an important stage in any iris biometric, as it has a propensity to trim down the consequences of iris distortion. To indemnify the variation in size of the iris owing to the action of stretching or enlarging the pupil in iris acquisition process and camera to eyeball distance, two normalization schemes has been proposed in this work. In the first method, the iris region of interest is normalized by converting the iris into the variable size rectangular model in order to avoid the under samples near the limbus border. In the second method, the iris region of interest is normalized by converting the iris region into a fixed size rectangular model in order to avoid the dimensional discrepancies between the eye images. The performance of the proposed normalization methods is evaluated with orthogonal polynomials based iris recognition in terms of FAR, FRR, GAR, CRR and EER.

The effect of bevacizumab for anterior segment neovascularization after silicone oil removal in eyes with previous vitreoretinal surgery.

PubMed

Batman, C; Ozdamar, Y

2010-07-01

To report the outcomes of the use of intracameral bevacizumab for iris neovascularization occurring after silicone oil (SO) removal in eyes undergoing vitreoretinal surgery (VRS). This study included 12 eyes that had iris neovascularization after SO removal. The clinical outcomes of 12 eyes after intravitreal bevacizumab injection were reviewed. There were eight men and four women with an average age of 41.58+/-12.68 years. All eyes had VRS for various vitreoretinal diseases. After the mean follow-up period of 9.7+/-5.3 months, SO removal was performed. Then, the patients were followed for more than 2 months and detailed retinal examinations and intraocular pressure (IOP) were normal during this period, but rubeosis iridis (RI) developed. RI was treated with 1 dose of 1.25 mg bevacizumab into the anterior chamber. After a mean follow-up period of 4.8+/-2.2 months, the regression of iris neovacularization was detected and IOP was below 21 mmHg in all eyes. Anterior segment neovascularization (ASNV) may develop through various mechanisms in patients with VRS after SO removal, and anterior chamber injection of bevacizumab may lead to regression of ASNV.

Toward More Accurate Iris Recognition Using Cross-Spectral Matching.

PubMed

Nalla, Pattabhi Ramaiah; Kumar, Ajay

2017-01-01

Iris recognition systems are increasingly deployed for large-scale applications such as national ID programs, which continue to acquire millions of iris images to establish identity among billions. However, with the availability of variety of iris sensors that are deployed for the iris imaging under different illumination/environment, significant performance degradation is expected while matching such iris images acquired under two different domains (either sensor-specific or wavelength-specific). This paper develops a domain adaptation framework to address this problem and introduces a new algorithm using Markov random fields model to significantly improve cross-domain iris recognition. The proposed domain adaptation framework based on the naive Bayes nearest neighbor classification uses a real-valued feature representation, which is capable of learning domain knowledge. Our approach to estimate corresponding visible iris patterns from the synthesis of iris patches in the near infrared iris images achieves outperforming results for the cross-spectral iris recognition. In this paper, a new class of bi-spectral iris recognition system that can simultaneously acquire visible and near infra-red images with pixel-to-pixel correspondences is proposed and evaluated. This paper presents experimental results from three publicly available databases; PolyU cross-spectral iris image database, IIITD CLI and UND database, and achieve outperforming results for the cross-sensor and cross-spectral iris matching.

IRIS, Gender, and Student Achievement at University of Genova

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bonfa, Antonella; Freddano, Michela

2012-01-01

The article analyses the gender effects on student achievement at University of Genova and it is a part of the research performed by the University of Genova called "Benchmarks interfaculty students: Development of a gender perspective to find strategies to understand what leads students to success in their studies", financed by the…

The aerosol rabbit model of TB latency, reactivation and immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome

PubMed Central

Manabe, Yukari C.; Kesavan, Anup K.; Lopez-Molina, Javier; Hatem, Christine L.; Brooks, Megan; Fujiwara, Ricardo; Hochstein, Karl; Pitt, M. Louise M.; Tufariello, JoAnn; Chan, John; McMurray, David N.; Bishai, William R.; Dannenberg, Arthur M.; Mendez, Susana

2015-01-01

The large reservoir of human latent tuberculosis (TB) contributes to the global success of the pathogen, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). We sought to test whether aerosol infection of rabbits with Mtb H37Rv could model paucibacillary human latent TB. The lung burden of infection peaked at 5 weeks after aerosol infection followed by host containment of infection that was achieved in all rabbits. One-third of rabbits had at least one caseous granuloma with culturable bacilli at 36 weeks after infection suggesting persistent paucibacillary infection. Corticosteroid-induced immunosuppression initiated after disease containment resulted in reactivation of disease. Seventy-two percent of rabbits had culturable bacilli in the right upper lung lobe homogenates compared to none of the untreated controls. Discontinuation of dexamethasone led to predictable lymphoid recovery, with a proportion of rabbits developing multicentric large caseous granuloma. The development and severity of the immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) was dependent on the antigen load at the time of immunosuppression and subsequent bacillary replication during corticosteroid-induced immunosuppression. Clinically, many aspects were similar to IRIS in severely immunosuppressed HIV-infected patients who have functional restoration of T cells in response to effective (highly active) antiretroviral therapy. This corticosteroid model is the only animal model of the IRIS. Further study of the rabbit model of TB latency, reactivation and IRIS may be important in understanding the immunopathogenesis of these poorly modeled states as well as for improved diagnostics for specific stages of disease. PMID:18068491

Novel Molecular Imaging Approach for Subclinical Detection of Iritis and Evaluation of Therapeutic Success

PubMed Central

Xie, Fang; Sun, Dawei; Schering, Alexander; Nakao, Shintaro; Zandi, Souska; Liu, Ping; Hafezi-Moghadam, Ali

2010-01-01

There is an urgent need for early diagnosis in medicine, whereupon effective treatments could prevent irreversible tissue damage. Acute anterior chamber inflammation is the most common form of uveitis and a major cause of vision loss. The proximity of the iris vasculature to the light-permeable cornea and its involvement in ocular inflammation make it an ideal target for noninvasive molecular imaging. To accomplish this, carboxylated fluorescent microspheres (MSs) were conjugated with recombinant P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 and systemically injected in endotoxin-induced uveitic animals. MS adhesion in the microcirculation of the anterior and posterior chamber was visualized by intravital microscopy and scanning laser ophthalmoscopy. In iritic animals, significantly higher numbers of recombinant P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1-conjugated MSs adhered to the endothelium (P = 0.03) matching the increase in leukocyte adhesion. Conjugated MSs specifically interacted with firmly adhering leukocytes, allowing quantification of the endogenous immune response. Topical eye drop treatment with dexamethasone (P < 0.01) or cyclosporine A (P < 0.01) significantly lowered MS adhesion in iris vessels. Surprisingly, topical dexamethasone significantly reduced MS interaction in the fundus vessels (P < 0.01), while cyclosporine A did not. In vivo MS accumulation preceded clinical signs of anterior uveitis and leukocyte adhesion in iris vasculature. This work introduces noninvasive subclinical detection of endothelial injury in the iris vasculature, providing a unique opportunity for quantifying vascular injury and immune response in vivo. PMID:20581051

Early Career Investigator Opportunities in Geophysics with IRIS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colella, H.; Sumy, D. F.; Schutt, D.

2016-12-01

Early career geoscientists face many challenges as they transition from senior level graduate students into postdoctoral researchers, tenure-track faculty positions, or the vast array of employment opportunities outside of academia. However, few receive adequate mentoring or guidance on how to successfully make the leap from graduate school to a fulfilling career. In recognition of these hurdles and challenges, the Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS) created an early-career investigator (ECI) program in 2011 to help reduce barriers for newly minted scientists, researchers, and educators on their path to success. The core mission of the ECI program is to organize practical resources and professional development opportunities for ECIs. The initiative has encouraged and supported collaboration between ECIs and senior scientists through colloquium lectureships and visiting scientist collaborations, which aimed to increase the visibility of ECIs and their research and to promote interaction between junior and senior scientists outside of their home institutions. Additionally, ECI-centric events are held at various national meetings to showcase the range of career paths available in geophysics, openly discuss the challenges ECIs face (e.g., work-life balance, job search difficulties, teaching challenges), expose participants to the ECI program's initiatives and resources, and better inform IRIS about the needs of the community. Post-workshop evaluations reveal ECIs are eager to have exposure to a variety of workforce options and a forum in which to ask difficult questions. Of note, there is a variety of cultural knowledge and expectations assumed in both the academic and professional worlds that is often not formally disseminated. The ECI program aims to better understand and facilitate transfer of this knowledge and reduce barriers to success for ECIs from both traditional and non-traditional backgrounds. The program also features webinars focused on a range of research and career topics, which can be attended in real-time or viewed on YouTube, with over 6,000 total views to date. Moving forward, an additional focus will be on intentional mentorship opportunities as we continue to build a productive, supportive, and successful early career community.

An effective approach for iris recognition using phase-based image matching.

PubMed

Miyazawa, Kazuyuki; Ito, Koichi; Aoki, Takafumi; Kobayashi, Koji; Nakajima, Hiroshi

2008-10-01

This paper presents an efficient algorithm for iris recognition using phase-based image matching--an image matching technique using phase components in 2D Discrete Fourier Transforms (DFTs) of given images. Experimental evaluation using CASIA iris image databases (versions 1.0 and 2.0) and Iris Challenge Evaluation (ICE) 2005 database clearly demonstrates that the use of phase components of iris images makes possible to achieve highly accurate iris recognition with a simple matching algorithm. This paper also discusses major implementation issues of our algorithm. In order to reduce the size of iris data and to prevent the visibility of iris images, we introduce the idea of 2D Fourier Phase Code (FPC) for representing iris information. The 2D FPC is particularly useful for implementing compact iris recognition devices using state-of-the-art Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology.

Iris Location Algorithm Based on the CANNY Operator and Gradient Hough Transform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, L. H.; Meng, K.; Wang, Y.; Dai, Z. Q.; Li, S.

2017-12-01

In the iris recognition system, the accuracy of the localization of the inner and outer edges of the iris directly affects the performance of the recognition system, so iris localization has important research meaning. Our iris data contain eyelid, eyelashes, light spot and other noise, even the gray transformation of the images is not obvious, so the general methods of iris location are unable to realize the iris location. The method of the iris location based on Canny operator and gradient Hough transform is proposed. Firstly, the images are pre-processed; then, calculating the gradient information of images, the inner and outer edges of iris are coarse positioned using Canny operator; finally, according to the gradient Hough transform to realize precise localization of the inner and outer edge of iris. The experimental results show that our algorithm can achieve the localization of the inner and outer edges of the iris well, and the algorithm has strong anti-interference ability, can greatly reduce the location time and has higher accuracy and stability.

Aductive laser iridoplasty and laser goniopuncture after non-perforating trabeculectomy.

PubMed

D, Lawrence F Jindra M

2013-03-01

Successful non-perforating trabeculectomy (NPT) results in filtration of aqueous humor out of the anterior chamber and into a filtration bleb, without surgical excision of tissue from the anterior chamber angle, and without penetration into the anterior chamber. The complications of perforating trabeculectomy, due to early postoperative hypotony (shallow anterior chamber, hyphema, macular folds, suprachoroidal effusion, and ciliochoroidal hemorrhage) (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) are regarded by many surgeons as significant risks. Nonperforating surgery has been reported to reduce the incidence of early hypotony-related complications (10), because it has the advantage of creating gradual filtration of aqueous humor, through a thin trabeculodescemetic membrane (TDM), which markedly reduces postoperative complications seen after a conventional trabeculectomy (11), and also has been reported to provide better long-term intraocular pressure (IOP) control (12, 13). NPT is reported to be a procedure with a significant learning curve, sometimes necessitating conversion to perforating trabeculectomy, and requiring careful postoperative monitoring (14, 15, 16, 17). Zimmerman et al. reported filtration of aqueous humor under a filtering bleb, by resecting the roof of Schlemms canal and removing corneal stroma overlying the trabecular meshwork (18) Mermoud et al. reported filtration of aqueous humor under a filtering, bleb by unroofing Schlemms canal and removing corneal stroma overlying the trabecular meshwork as well Descemets membrane (19); he found that resistance across the TDM sometimes increased with time. When this resistance to aqueous humor outflow occurred, Mermoud found TDM resistance could be eliminated by performance of goniopuncture (ab interno Nd:YAG laser membranotomy via gonioprism), to enhance aqueous humor outflow into the filtration bleb. Failure to filter adequately through the TDM is a potential complication following NPT which can result in a rise in intraocular pressure (IOP). In this paper we examine the effectiveness of adjunctive Nd:YAG laser goniopuncture (YGP) in patients who underwent NPT, to reduce post-operative IOP rise, secondary to scarring at or poor aqueous outflow through the TDM. Iris prolapse (IP) is another potential complication following NPT which can result in a rise in IOP. In this paper we examine the effectiveness of adjunctive argon laser peripheral iridoplasty (ALPI) in patients who underwent NPT, to reduce post-operative IOP rise, secondary to IP obstructing outflow across the TDM. Nd:YAG laser goniopuncture consists of placing several laser shots on the undersurface of the trabeculodescemetic membrane. The result is a microperforation in this membrane, with flow of aqueous into the filtration bleb, which converts a non-perforating filtration procedure into a partial thickness filtration procedure. In this technique, several high power, multi-burst shots are applied, ab interno, by a Nd:YAG laser via a gonioprism, to the underside of the TDM, to facilitate aqueous outflow out from the anterior chamber. YGP can be effective when increased aqueous outflow is desired postoperatively. After this procedure, patent perforation in the TDM is usually observed gonioscopically, generally accompanied with reduction in IOP, and increase in bleb elevation (in height and in circumferential extent). Argon laser peripheral iridoplasty consists of placing several laser burns on the surface of the peripheral iris to contract the iris stroma, in a centripetal fashion, between the site of the burn and the anterior chamber angle. The result is iris stromal tissue contraction and compaction, movement of IP away from the angle and toward the pupil, which physically widens the angle and clears the synechial apposition of the peripheral iris against the TDM. In this technique, a series of low power, long duration, and large size burns is applied to the iris periphery to contract the iris stroma, to open the angle, and to clear IP causing synechial obstruction of the TDM after successful NPT. Used previously in acute angle closure glaucoma, ALPI may be effective in controlling IOP and clearing corneal edema when systemic and topical anti-glaucoma treatments fail to control high IOP, and when laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) is not possible (e.g. in cases of severe corneal edema). Additionally, ALPI can be effective in permanently reopening the anterior chamber angle of iridectomized eyes with plateau iris syndrome; in this technique a full 360 degrees ring of spots is often applied, but a more limited area of treatment may also be effective. When a post-operative elevation in IOP was detected in a patients eye which had undergone NPT, careful indentation gonioscopy was performed to examine the TDM at the surgical site. If the peripheral iris was flat, the anterior chamber angle was open, and the TDM did not appear obstructed by IP, YGP was performed. First, the eyes were pre-treated with aproclonodine 1% and pilocarpine 2% (if needed to allow visualization of the TDM). Next, a Nd:YAG laser was set on triple burst mode and shots were applied to the underside of the TDM at the NPT site, using a Goldman 3-mirror lens in the following manner: Energy - 3-5 mJ; Mode - Triple burst. The power and amount of spots were titrated in order to achieve partial or microperforation of TDM at the NPT surgical site, thus resulting in restoration of aqueous outflow into the filtration bleb. When a post-operative elevation in IOP was detected in a patients eye which had undergone NPT and or YGP, careful indentation gonioscopy was performed to examine the TDM at the surgical site. If irreducible synechial IP were detected, which obstructed filtration through the TDM at the NPT surgical site, ALPI was performed. First, the eyes were pre-treated with aproclonodine 1% and pilocarpine 2%. Next, an argon laser was set on blue-green mode and shots were applied to the IP adherent to cornea or to the TDM at the NPT site, using a Goldman 3-mirror lens in the following manner: Spot Size - 500 mM; Duration - 0.5 s; Power - 200 to 400 mW. The power and amount of burns were titrated in order to achieve partial or complete centripetal retraction of the IP from the TDM at the NPT surgical site, causing a clearance of the obstruction to the TDM, thus resulting in restoration of aqueous outflow into the filtration bleb.

The Immune Pathogenesis of Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome Associated with Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy in AIDS

PubMed Central

Zhou, Huaying; He, Yan; Chen, Zi; He, Bo; He, Mei

2014-01-01

Abstract The present study investigated the immunological pathogenesis of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients undergoing highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). A total of 238 patients with AIDS who received initial HAART were included in this prospective cohort study. Blood samples were collected immediately, at baseline, at week 12, and at week 24 after initial HAART and at the onset of IRIS. Lymphocyte subsets, Th1 and Th2 cytokines, and interleukin (IL)-7 levels were measured by flow cytometry or ELISA. Among the 238 patients with AIDS who received HAART, 47 patients developed IRIS. The percentages of CD4+ and CD8+ naive, memory, and activated cells exhibited no significant differences between AIDS patients with and without IRIS 24 weeks after initial HAART. The percentage of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells was lower in IRIS patients than in non-IRIS patients before HAART, 12 weeks after HAART, 24 weeks after HAART, and at the onset of IRIS. IL-2 and interferon (IFN)-γ levels were significantly higher at week 4 and at the onset of IRIS in IRIS patients than in non-IRIS patients. In contrast, IL-4 and IL-10 levels were significantly lower at week 4 and at the onset of IRIS in IRIS patients than in non-IRIS patients. Plasma IL-7 decreased gradually with the progression of HAART. The level of IL-7 was higher in IRIS patients than in non-IRIS patients at all follow-up time points. An imbalance of Th1/Th2 cytokines, a consistently low CD+CD25+Fox3+ percentage, and a high IL-7 level may be crucial in the pathogenesis of IRIS in AIDS patients who had received HAART. PMID:25131160

On techniques for angle compensation in nonideal iris recognition.

PubMed

Schuckers, Stephanie A C; Schmid, Natalia A; Abhyankar, Aditya; Dorairaj, Vivekanand; Boyce, Christopher K; Hornak, Lawrence A

2007-10-01

The popularity of the iris biometric has grown considerably over the past two to three years. Most research has been focused on the development of new iris processing and recognition algorithms for frontal view iris images. However, a few challenging directions in iris research have been identified, including processing of a nonideal iris and iris at a distance. In this paper, we describe two nonideal iris recognition systems and analyze their performance. The word "nonideal" is used in the sense of compensating for off-angle occluded iris images. The system is designed to process nonideal iris images in two steps: 1) compensation for off-angle gaze direction and 2) processing and encoding of the rotated iris image. Two approaches are presented to account for angular variations in the iris images. In the first approach, we use Daugman's integrodifferential operator as an objective function to estimate the gaze direction. After the angle is estimated, the off-angle iris image undergoes geometric transformations involving the estimated angle and is further processed as if it were a frontal view image. The encoding technique developed for a frontal image is based on the application of the global independent component analysis. The second approach uses an angular deformation calibration model. The angular deformations are modeled, and calibration parameters are calculated. The proposed method consists of a closed-form solution, followed by an iterative optimization procedure. The images are projected on the plane closest to the base calibrated plane. Biorthogonal wavelets are used for encoding to perform iris recognition. We use a special dataset of the off-angle iris images to quantify the performance of the designed systems. A series of receiver operating characteristics demonstrate various effects on the performance of the nonideal-iris-based recognition system.

An automatic iris occlusion estimation method based on high-dimensional density estimation.

PubMed

Li, Yung-Hui; Savvides, Marios

2013-04-01

Iris masks play an important role in iris recognition. They indicate which part of the iris texture map is useful and which part is occluded or contaminated by noisy image artifacts such as eyelashes, eyelids, eyeglasses frames, and specular reflections. The accuracy of the iris mask is extremely important. The performance of the iris recognition system will decrease dramatically when the iris mask is inaccurate, even when the best recognition algorithm is used. Traditionally, people used the rule-based algorithms to estimate iris masks from iris images. However, the accuracy of the iris masks generated this way is questionable. In this work, we propose to use Figueiredo and Jain's Gaussian Mixture Models (FJ-GMMs) to model the underlying probabilistic distributions of both valid and invalid regions on iris images. We also explored possible features and found that Gabor Filter Bank (GFB) provides the most discriminative information for our goal. Finally, we applied Simulated Annealing (SA) technique to optimize the parameters of GFB in order to achieve the best recognition rate. Experimental results show that the masks generated by the proposed algorithm increase the iris recognition rate on both ICE2 and UBIRIS dataset, verifying the effectiveness and importance of our proposed method for iris occlusion estimation.

ranibizumab in the management of advanced Coats disease Stages 3B and 4: long-term outcomes.

PubMed

Gaillard, Marie-Claire; Mataftsi, Assimina; Balmer, Aubin; Houghton, Susan; Munier, Francis L

2014-11-01

Laser photocoagulation and cryotherapy to completely destroy telangiectatic vessels and ischemic retina in Coats disease is barely applicable in advanced cases with total retinal detachment, and globe survival is notoriously poor in Stages 3B and 4. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor intravitreal injections may offer new prospects for these patients. This study is a retrospective review of all consecutive patients with Coats disease treated with neoadjuvant or adjuvant intravitreal ranibizumab plus conventional and amblyopia treatment as appropriate. Nine patients (median age, 13 months) presenting Coats Stages 3B and 4 (5 and 4 eyes, respectively) were included. Iris neovascularization resolved within 2 weeks and retinal reapplication within 4 months in all patients. At last follow-up, globe survival was 100% with anatomical success in 8 of the 9 eyes. With a median follow-up of 50 months, fibrotic vitreoretinopathy was developed in 5 of the 9 cases, one leading to tractional retinal detachment and ultimately phthisis bulbi. The remaining 4 of the 9 eyes achieved some vision (range, 0.02-0.063). To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the largest reported series of late-stage Coats undergoing anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy, a homogenous cohort of patients treated with a single agent and with the longest follow-up. This study supports the role of ranibizumab in advanced disease by transient restoration of the hemato-retinal barrier and suppression of neovascularization to facilitate classic treatment. At the last follow-up, the authors report unprecedented anatomical success and functional outcome.

The fast iris image clarity evaluation based on Tenengrad and ROI selection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Shuqin; Han, Min; Cheng, Xu

2018-04-01

In iris recognition system, the clarity of iris image is an important factor that influences recognition effect. In the process of recognition, the blurred image may possibly be rejected by the automatic iris recognition system, which will lead to the failure of identification. Therefore it is necessary to evaluate the iris image definition before recognition. Considered the existing evaluation methods on iris image definition, we proposed a fast algorithm to evaluate the definition of iris image in this paper. In our algorithm, firstly ROI (Region of Interest) is extracted based on the reference point which is determined by using the feature of the light spots within the pupil, then Tenengrad operator is used to evaluate the iris image's definition. Experiment results show that, the iris image definition algorithm proposed in this paper could accurately distinguish the iris images of different clarity, and the algorithm has the merit of low computational complexity and more effectiveness.

A gallery approach for off-angle iris recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karakaya, Mahmut; Yoldash, Rashiduddin; Boehnen, Christopher

2015-05-01

It has been proven that hamming distance score between frontal and off-angle iris images of same eye differs in iris recognition system. The distinction of hamming distance score is caused by many factors such as image acquisition angle, occlusion, pupil dilation, and limbus effect. In this paper, we first study the effect of the angle variations between iris plane and the image acquisition systems. We present how hamming distance changes for different off-angle iris images even if they are coming from the same iris. We observe that increment in acquisition angle of compared iris images causes the increment in hamming distance. Second, we propose a new technique in off-angle iris recognition system that includes creating a gallery of different off-angle iris images (such as, 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 degrees) and comparing each probe image with these gallery images. We will show the accuracy of the gallery approach for off-angle iris recognition.

Iris segmentation using an edge detector based on fuzzy sets theory and cellular learning automata.

PubMed

Ghanizadeh, Afshin; Abarghouei, Amir Atapour; Sinaie, Saman; Saad, Puteh; Shamsuddin, Siti Mariyam

2011-07-01

Iris-based biometric systems identify individuals based on the characteristics of their iris, since they are proven to remain unique for a long time. An iris recognition system includes four phases, the most important of which is preprocessing in which the iris segmentation is performed. The accuracy of an iris biometric system critically depends on the segmentation system. In this paper, an iris segmentation system using edge detection techniques and Hough transforms is presented. The newly proposed edge detection system enhances the performance of the segmentation in a way that it performs much more efficiently than the other conventional iris segmentation methods.

Diagnosis and Management of Iridocorneal Endothelial Syndrome

PubMed Central

Sacchetti, Marta; Mantelli, Flavio; Macchi, Ilaria; Ambrosio, Oriella; Rama, Paolo

2015-01-01

The iridocorneal endothelial (ICE) syndrome is a rare ocular disorder that includes a group of conditions characterized by structural and proliferative abnormalities of the corneal endothelium, the anterior chamber angle, and the iris. Common clinical features include corneal edema, secondary glaucoma, iris atrophy, and pupillary anomalies, ranging from distortion to polycoria. The main subtypes of this syndrome are the progressive iris atrophy, the Cogan-Reese syndrome, and the Chandler syndrome. ICE syndrome is usually diagnosed in women in the adult age. Clinical history and complete eye examination including tonometry and gonioscopy are necessary to reach a diagnosis. Imaging techniques, such as in vivo confocal microscopy and ultrasound biomicroscopy, are used to confirm the diagnosis by revealing the presence of “ICE-cells” on the corneal endothelium and the structural changes of the anterior chamber angle. An early diagnosis is helpful to better manage the most challenging complications such as secondary glaucoma and corneal edema. Treatment of ICE-related glaucoma often requires glaucoma filtering surgery with antifibrotic agents and the use of glaucoma drainage implants should be considered early in the management of these patients. Visual impairment and pain associated with corneal edema can be successfully managed with endothelial keratoplasty. PMID:26451377

Creeping posterior synechiae following hyperopic iris-fixated phakic implants.

PubMed

Messina, Marco; Elalfy, Mohamed; Fares, Usama; Ghoz, Noha; Mavi, Balraj; Dua, Harminder

2016-12-01

The purpose of this study was to report on the occurrence and management of posterior synechiae (PS) in three hyperopic eyes after iris-fixated anterior chamber phakic IOL implantation. This is a case report of a 55-year-old man and a 55-year-old lady who had undergone iris-fixated anterior chamber phakic IOL implantation to correct hyperopic astigmatism (one eye) and hyperopia (both eyes), respectively. The three eyes developed creeping PS and pigment dispersion within 4-6 weeks of surgery. Synechiolysis and pupil stretching in one eye did not work as the synechiae promptly recurred. Definitive management in the form of removal of the phakic implant and phacoemulsification with lens implant was successful in restoring normal vision in all three eyes. Although implantation of phakic intraocular lenses has been reported to be very effective for the correction of moderate to high degrees of ametropia, this complication can occur in hyperopic eyes. Pigment dispersion has been reported in myopic eyes also, but PS seem to be more an issue with hyperopic eyes. Age of the patient may also be a factor. This information is important in the selection and counselling of patients.

A high-significance measurement of correlation between unresolved IRAS sources and optically-selected galaxy clusters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hincks, Adam D.; Hajian, Amir; Addison, Graeme E.

2013-05-01

We cross-correlate the 100 μm Improved Reprocessing of the IRAS Survey (IRIS) map and galaxy clusters at 0.1 < z < 0.3 in the maxBCG catalogue taken from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, measuring an angular cross-power spectrum over multipole moments 150 < l < 3000 at a total significance of over 40σ. The cross-spectrum, which arises from the spatial correlation between unresolved dusty galaxies that make up the cosmic infrared background (CIB) in the IRIS map and the galaxy clusters, is well-fit by a single power law with an index of -1.28±0.12, similar to the clustering of unresolved galaxies from cross-correlating far-infrared and submillimetre maps at longer wavelengths. Using a recent, phenomenological model for the spectral and clustering properties of the IRIS galaxies, we constrain the large-scale bias of the maxBCG clusters to be 2.6±1.4, consistent with existing analyses of the real-space cluster correlation function. The success of our method suggests that future CIB-optical cross-correlations using Planck and Herschel data will significantly improve our understanding of the clustering and redshift distribution of the faint CIB sources.

An Iris Segmentation Algorithm based on Edge Orientation for Off-angle Iris Recognition

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Karakaya, Mahmut; Barstow, Del R; Santos-Villalobos, Hector J

Iris recognition is known as one of the most accurate and reliable biometrics. However, the accuracy of iris recognition systems depends on the quality of data capture and is negatively affected by several factors such as angle, occlusion, and dilation. In this paper, we present a segmentation algorithm for off-angle iris images that uses edge detection, edge elimination, edge classification, and ellipse fitting techniques. In our approach, we first detect all candidate edges in the iris image by using the canny edge detector; this collection contains edges from the iris and pupil boundaries as well as eyelash, eyelids, iris texturemore » etc. Edge orientation is used to eliminate the edges that cannot be part of the iris or pupil. Then, we classify the remaining edge points into two sets as pupil edges and iris edges. Finally, we randomly generate subsets of iris and pupil edge points, fit ellipses for each subset, select ellipses with similar parameters, and average to form the resultant ellipses. Based on the results from real experiments, the proposed method shows effectiveness in segmentation for off-angle iris images.« less

PLATEAU IRIS SYNDROME--CASE SERIES.

PubMed

Feraru, Crenguta Ioana; Pantalon, Anca Delia; Chiselita, Dorin; Branisteanu, Daniel

2015-01-01

Plateau iris is characterized by closing the anterior chamber angle due to a large ciliary body or due to its anterior insertion that alters the position of iris periphery in respect to the trabecular meshwork. There are two aspects that need to be differentiated: plateau iris configuration and plateau iris syndrome. The first describes a situation when the iris root is flat and the anterior chamber is not shallow, the latter refers to a post laser iridotomy condition in which a patent iridotomy has removed the relative pupillary block, but goniscopically confirmed angle closure recurs without central shallowing of the anterior chamber. Isolated plateau iris syndrome is rare compared to plateau iris configuration. We hereby present two case reports of plateau iris syndrome in young patients who came to an ophthalmologic consult by chance.

Iris texture traits show associations with iris color and genomic ancestry.

PubMed

Quillen, Ellen E; Guiltinan, Jenna S; Beleza, Sandra; Rocha, Jorge; Pereira, Rinaldo W; Shriver, Mark D

2011-01-01

This study seeks to identify associations among genomic biogeographic ancestry (BGA), quantitative iris color, and iris texture traits contributing to population-level variation in these phenotypes. DNA and iris photographs were collected from 300 individuals across three variably admixed populations (Portugal, Brazil, and Cape Verde). Two raters scored the photos for pigmentation spots, Fuchs' crypts, contraction furrows, and Wolflinn nodes. Iris color was quantified from RGB values. Maximum likelihood estimates of individual BGA were calculated from 176 ancestry informative markers. Pigmentation spots, Fuchs' crypts, contraction furrows, and iris color show significant positive correlation with increasing European BGA. Only contraction furrows are correlated with iris color. The relationship between BGA and iris texture illustrates a genetic contribution to this population-level variation. Copyright © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Comparison and evaluation of datasets for off-angle iris recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kurtuncu, Osman M.; Cerme, Gamze N.; Karakaya, Mahmut

2016-05-01

In this paper, we investigated the publicly available iris recognition datasets and their data capture procedures in order to determine if they are suitable for the stand-off iris recognition research. Majority of the iris recognition datasets include only frontal iris images. Even if a few datasets include off-angle iris images, the frontal and off-angle iris images are not captured at the same time. The comparison of the frontal and off-angle iris images shows not only differences in the gaze angle but also change in pupil dilation and accommodation as well. In order to isolate the effect of the gaze angle from other challenging issues including dilation and accommodation, the frontal and off-angle iris images are supposed to be captured at the same time by using two different cameras. Therefore, we developed an iris image acquisition platform by using two cameras in this work where one camera captures frontal iris image and the other one captures iris images from off-angle. Based on the comparison of Hamming distance between frontal and off-angle iris images captured with the two-camera- setup and one-camera-setup, we observed that Hamming distance in two-camera-setup is less than one-camera-setup ranging from 0.05 to 0.001. These results show that in order to have accurate results in the off-angle iris recognition research, two-camera-setup is necessary in order to distinguish the challenging issues from each other.

Iris registration in wavefront-guided LASIK to correct mixed astigmatism.

PubMed

Khalifa, Mounir; El-Kateb, Mohamed; Shaheen, Mohamed Shafik

2009-03-01

To investigate the predictability, safety, and efficiency of wavefront-guided laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) with iris-registration technology to correct mixed astigmatism. Vision correction center, Alexandria, Egypt. This retrospective double-blind study included randomly selected patients with mixed astigmatism who sought laser refractive surgery. Patients were divided equally into 3 groups and treated with conventional LASIK and manual marking, wavefront-guided LASIK and manual marking, or wavefront-guided LASIK with iris registration (LASIK+IR group). Eyes were analyzed preoperatively and up to 3 months postoperatively. The LASIK+IR group had better postoperative uncorrected visual acuity (100% 20/30 or better; 90% 20/20 or better; 20% 20/16 or better) than the other groups and did not lose preoperative best spectacle-corrected visual acuity, unlike the other groups. This group also had the highest percentage of eyes that gained lines of acuity (20% 1 line; 10% 2 lines). The LASIK+IR group had the highest predictability of spherical refraction (80% within +/-0.50 diopter [D]; 100% within +/-1.00 D [P<.05] and the highest predictability of cylinder refraction. The LASIK+IR eyes had a significantly smaller increase postoperatively in coma, trefoil, and secondary astigmatism. There was no significant difference between groups in spherical aberration or quadrafoil. The LASIK-IR group had the most improvement in scotopic contrast sensitivity (P<.05). Wavefront-guided LASIK with iris registration was more predictable, safe, and efficient than conventional or wavefront-guided LASIK with manual marking in correcting mixed astigmatism. Further studies are needed to confirm these results.

Vaccine Therapy in Treating Patients With Stage IIC-IV Melanoma

ClinicalTrials.gov

2014-05-20

Ciliary Body and Choroid Melanoma, Medium/Large Size; Ciliary Body and Choroid Melanoma, Small Size; Extraocular Extension Melanoma; Iris Melanoma; Metastatic Intraocular Melanoma; Mucosal Melanoma; Recurrent Intraocular Melanoma; Recurrent Melanoma; Stage IIC Melanoma; Stage IIIA Intraocular Melanoma; Stage IIIA Melanoma; Stage IIIB Intraocular Melanoma; Stage IIIB Melanoma; Stage IIIC Intraocular Melanoma; Stage IIIC Melanoma; Stage IV Intraocular Melanoma; Stage IV Melanoma

Evaluation of the toric implantable collamer lens for simultaneous treatment of myopia and astigmatism.

PubMed

Price, Marianne O; Price, Francis W

2015-01-01

Myopic astigmatism is a prevalent condition that can be treated with spectacles, contact lenses, or laser refractive surgery. However, these treatment options have functional limitations at higher levels of refractive error. The toric implantable collamer lens is designed to treat a broad range of refractive error, generally up to -18 diopters with +1 to +6 diopters of astigmatism. Approval for a more limited treatment range of up to 15 diopters of myopia with +1 to +4 diopters of astigmatism is being sought in the US, where this device has not yet received marketing approval. Surgical correction of high-myopic astigmatism can be life-altering and allow people to participate in activities that were not previously feasible because of visual limitations. The toric implantable collamer lens is implanted behind the iris and in front of the natural crystalline lens. With earlier lens designs, it was necessary to create an iridectomy or iridotomy to prevent pupillary block. The newest toric implantable collamer lens model has a small central hole that is not visually noticeable. This eliminates the need to create a hole in the iris, thereby enhancing the safety of the procedure.

The best bits in an iris code.

PubMed

Hollingsworth, Karen P; Bowyer, Kevin W; Flynn, Patrick J

2009-06-01

Iris biometric systems apply filters to iris images to extract information about iris texture. Daugman's approach maps the filter output to a binary iris code. The fractional Hamming distance between two iris codes is computed and decisions about the identity of a person are based on the computed distance. The fractional Hamming distance weights all bits in an iris code equally. However, not all the bits in an iris code are equally useful. Our research is the first to present experiments documenting that some bits are more consistent than others. Different regions of the iris are compared to evaluate their relative consistency, and contrary to some previous research, we find that the middle bands of the iris are more consistent than the inner bands. The inconsistent-bit phenomenon is evident across genders and different filter types. Possible causes of inconsistencies, such as segmentation, alignment issues, and different filters are investigated. The inconsistencies are largely due to the coarse quantization of the phase response. Masking iris code bits corresponding to complex filter responses near the axes of the complex plane improves the separation between the match and nonmatch Hamming distance distributions.

Toward accurate and fast iris segmentation for iris biometrics.

PubMed

He, Zhaofeng; Tan, Tieniu; Sun, Zhenan; Qiu, Xianchao

2009-09-01

Iris segmentation is an essential module in iris recognition because it defines the effective image region used for subsequent processing such as feature extraction. Traditional iris segmentation methods often involve an exhaustive search of a large parameter space, which is time consuming and sensitive to noise. To address these problems, this paper presents a novel algorithm for accurate and fast iris segmentation. After efficient reflection removal, an Adaboost-cascade iris detector is first built to extract a rough position of the iris center. Edge points of iris boundaries are then detected, and an elastic model named pulling and pushing is established. Under this model, the center and radius of the circular iris boundaries are iteratively refined in a way driven by the restoring forces of Hooke's law. Furthermore, a smoothing spline-based edge fitting scheme is presented to deal with noncircular iris boundaries. After that, eyelids are localized via edge detection followed by curve fitting. The novelty here is the adoption of a rank filter for noise elimination and a histogram filter for tackling the shape irregularity of eyelids. Finally, eyelashes and shadows are detected via a learned prediction model. This model provides an adaptive threshold for eyelash and shadow detection by analyzing the intensity distributions of different iris regions. Experimental results on three challenging iris image databases demonstrate that the proposed algorithm outperforms state-of-the-art methods in both accuracy and speed.

A Canine Audience: The Effect of Animal-Assisted Therapy on Reading Progress among Students Identified with Learning Disabilities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Griess, Julie Omodio

2010-01-01

This study explored the use of animal-assisted therapy with students identified with a learning disability and limited reading success. Initially, reading progress was defined as the participants' comprehension rate obtained from an oral Informal Reading Inventory (IRI) passage. The nature of the Informal Reading Inventory requires the…

The International Reference Ionosphere - Climatological Standard for the Ionosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bilitza, Dieter

2006-01-01

The International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) a joint project of URSI and COSPAR is the defacto standard for a climatological specification of ionospheric parameters. IRI is based on a wide range of ground and space data and has been steadily improved since its inception in 1969 with the ever-increasing volume of ionospheric data and with better mathematical descriptions of the observed global and temporal variation patterns. The IRI model has been validated with a large amount of data including data from the most recent ionospheric satellites (KOMPSAT, ROCSAT and TIMED) and data from global network of ionosondes. Several IRI teams are working on specific aspects of the IRI modeling effort including an improved representation of the topside ionosphere with a seamless transition to the plasmasphere, a new effort to represent the global variation of F2 peak parameters using the Neural Network (NN) technique, and the inclusion of several additional parameters in IRI, e.g., spread-F probability and ionospheric variability. Annual IRI workshops are the forum for discussions of these efforts and for all science activities related to IRI as well as applications of the IRI model in engineering and education. In this paper I will present a status report about the IRI effort with special emphasis on the presentations and results from the most recent IRI Workshops (Paris, 2004; Tortosa, 2005) and on the most important ongoing IRI activities. I will discuss the latest version of the IRI model, IRI-2006, highlighting the most recent changes and additions. Finally, the talk will review some of the applications of the IRI model with special emphasis on the use for radiowave propagation studies and communication purposes.

Association of iris surface features with iris parameters assessed by swept-source optical coherence tomography in Asian eyes.

PubMed

Tun, Tin A; Chua, Jacqueline; Shi, Yuan; Sidhartha, Elizabeth; Thakku, Sri Gowtham; Shei, William; Tan, Marcus Chiang Lee; Quah, Joanne Hui Min; Aung, Tin; Cheng, Ching-Yu

2016-12-01

To characterise the association of iris surface features (crypts, furrows and colour) with iris volume and curvature assessed by swept-source optical coherence tomography (SSOCT) in Asian eyes. Iris crypts (by number and size) and furrows (by number and circumferential extent) were graded from iris photographs. Iris colour was measured by a customised algorithm written on MATLAB (MathWorks, Natick, Massachusetts, USA). The iris was imaged by SSOCT (SS-1000, CASIA, Tomey, Nagoya, Japan). The associations of surface features with iris parameters were analysed using a generalised estimating equation. A total of 1704 subjects (3297 eyes) were included in the analysis. The majority was Chinese (86.4%), and 63.2% were females, and their mean age (±SD) was 61.4±6.6 years. After adjusting for age, sex, ethnicity, pupil size and corneal arcus, higher iris crypt grade was independently associated with smaller iris volume (β=-0.54, p<0.001), whereas darker irides and higher iris furrow grade were associated with larger iris volume (β=-0.041, p<0.001) and (β=0.233, p<0.001), respectively. Lighter coloured irides with more crypts and/or more furrows were also associated with less convexity (crypts: β=-0.003, p=0.03; furrows: β=-0.004, p=0.007; and colour: β=-0.001, p=0.005). Iris surface features were highly correlated with iris volume and curvature. Irides with more crypts have a smaller volume; and darker irides with more furrows have a larger volume. Lighter irides with more crypts and/or furrows have less convexity. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

ISO Technical Specification for the Ionosphere -IRI Recent Activities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bilitza, Dieter; Reinisch, Bodo; Tamara, Gulyaeva

ISO Technical Specification TS 16457 recommends the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) for the specification of ionospheric densities and temperatures. We review the latest develop-ments towards improving the IRI model and the newest version of the model IRI-2010. IRI-2010 includes several important improvements and additions. This presentation introduces these changes and discusses their benefits. The changes affect primarily the density profiles in the bottomside ionosphere and the density and height of the F2 peak, the point of highest density in the ionosphere. An important new addition to the model is the inclusion of auroral boundaries and their movement with magnetic activity. We will also discuss the status of other ongoing IRI activities and some of the recent applications of the IRI model. The homepage for the IRI project is at http://IRI.gsfc.nasa.gov/.

Improved Iris Recognition through Fusion of Hamming Distance and Fragile Bit Distance.

PubMed

Hollingsworth, Karen P; Bowyer, Kevin W; Flynn, Patrick J

2011-12-01

The most common iris biometric algorithm represents the texture of an iris using a binary iris code. Not all bits in an iris code are equally consistent. A bit is deemed fragile if its value changes across iris codes created from different images of the same iris. Previous research has shown that iris recognition performance can be improved by masking these fragile bits. Rather than ignoring fragile bits completely, we consider what beneficial information can be obtained from the fragile bits. We find that the locations of fragile bits tend to be consistent across different iris codes of the same eye. We present a metric, called the fragile bit distance, which quantitatively measures the coincidence of the fragile bit patterns in two iris codes. We find that score fusion of fragile bit distance and Hamming distance works better for recognition than Hamming distance alone. To our knowledge, this is the first and only work to use the coincidence of fragile bit locations to improve the accuracy of matches.

Modified osteo-odonto keratoprosthesis--the Indian experience--results of the first 50 cases.

PubMed

Iyer, Geetha; Pillai, Vinay S; Srinivasan, Bhaskar; Falcinelli, Giovanni; Padmanabhan, Prema; Guruswami, Sitalakshmi; Falcinelli, Giancarlo

2010-07-01

To study the results of the modified osteo-odonto keratoprosthesis (MOOKP) surgery in bilateral end-stage ocular surface disorders. The MOOKP surgery is performed as a routine in 3 stages. Stage 1A involves removal of the iris and anterior vitrectomy with a corneal transplant if indicated. Stage 1B + 1C usually performed simultaneously involves harvesting the buccal mucosa and transplanting it onto the ocular surface along with fashioning of the osteo-odonto alveolar lamina. Stage 2 involves transplanting the osteo-odonto alveolar lamina to the eye 3 months later. The MOOKP surgery was completed in 50 eyes of 47 patients with a mean follow-up of 15.38 months (range: 1-54 months). Anatomic success was achieved in 96% of the eyes. Functional success of visual acuity > or = 20/60 was noted in 66% of eyes. Complications included oroantral fistula (6%), trophic mucosal alterations (8%), lamina exposure (central 6% and peripheral 8%), mucous membrane overgrowth (2%), hypotony (2%), expulsion of optic cylinder (4%), endophthalmitis (2%), glaucoma (20%), sterile vitritis (6%), and retinal detachment (2%). MOOKP is the keratoprosthesis of choice in bilateral end-stage ocular surface disorders in the Indian subcontinent. Complications do occur and have to be recognized and treated early.

A young Botswana patient with congenital iris ectropion uvea.

PubMed

Shifa, Jemal Zeberga; Nkomazana, Othokawa; Bekele, Negussie Alula; Kassa, Mamo Woldu

2016-01-01

Congenital iris ectropion is a rare condition; non-progressive anomaly characterised by the presence of iris pigment epithelium on the anterior surface of the iris stroma and is frequently associated with anterior iris insertion, dysgenesis of the drainage angle and glaucoma. This paper describes unusual case of bilateral case of congenital iris ectropion in adult patient with pupillary abnormality, normal anterior chamber angle structure and with no evidence of glaucoma.

Relationship of the Van Herick Grading System with Peripheral Iris Configuration and Level of Iris Insertion.

PubMed

Khan, Faisal Aziz; Niazi, Shafaq Pervez Khan; Khan, Assad Zaman

2017-09-01

To determine the relationship of the van Herick angle grading system with the level of iris insertion and peripheral iris configuration. Observational study. Eye department, Combined Military Hospital, Malir Cantt., Karachi, from May to October 2015. Sixty-five eyes of 65 patients were recruited. Anterior chamber depth at the temporal limbus was measured as a fraction of corneal section thickness using van Herick technique and graded on the standard 4-point scale of the van Herick grading system. Gonioscopy of the temporal quadrant was performed with a Posner 4 mirror goniolens and both the true level of iris insertion and peripheral iris configuration were recorded on a 4-point scale so as to equate with the van Herick 4-point grading system. Spearman's rho test was applied to determine the relationship of the van Herick grading system with level of iris root insertion and peripheral iris configuration. Amoderate positive correlation between van Herick grade and peripheral iris configuration was found which was statistically significant (rs=0.42, p < 0.001). Astatistically significant and moderate positive correlation was also detected between van Herick grade and the level of iris insertion (rs=0.45, p < 0.001). The van Herick grade has a moderately positive relationship with the peripheral iris configuration and true level of iris insertion.

Noisy Ocular Recognition Based on Three Convolutional Neural Networks.

PubMed

Lee, Min Beom; Hong, Hyung Gil; Park, Kang Ryoung

2017-12-17

In recent years, the iris recognition system has been gaining increasing acceptance for applications such as access control and smartphone security. When the images of the iris are obtained under unconstrained conditions, an issue of undermined quality is caused by optical and motion blur, off-angle view (the user's eyes looking somewhere else, not into the front of the camera), specular reflection (SR) and other factors. Such noisy iris images increase intra-individual variations and, as a result, reduce the accuracy of iris recognition. A typical iris recognition system requires a near-infrared (NIR) illuminator along with an NIR camera, which are larger and more expensive than fingerprint recognition equipment. Hence, many studies have proposed methods of using iris images captured by a visible light camera without the need for an additional illuminator. In this research, we propose a new recognition method for noisy iris and ocular images by using one iris and two periocular regions, based on three convolutional neural networks (CNNs). Experiments were conducted by using the noisy iris challenge evaluation-part II (NICE.II) training dataset (selected from the university of Beira iris (UBIRIS).v2 database), mobile iris challenge evaluation (MICHE) database, and institute of automation of Chinese academy of sciences (CASIA)-Iris-Distance database. As a result, the method proposed by this study outperformed previous methods.

Monocyte Phenotype and IFN-γ-Inducible Cytokine Responses Are Associated with Cryptococcal Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome

PubMed Central

Meya, David B.; Okurut, Samuel; Zziwa, Godfrey; Cose, Stephen; Bohjanen, Paul R.; Mayanja-Kizza, Harriet; Joloba, Moses; Boulware, David R.; Yukari Manabe, Carol; Wahl, Sharon; Janoff, Edward N.

2017-01-01

A third of adults with AIDS and cryptococcal meningitis (CM) develop immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) after initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART), which is thought to result from exaggerated inflammatory antigen-specific T cell responses. The contribution of monocytes to the immunopathogenesis of cryptococcal IRIS remains unclear. We compared monocyte subset frequencies and immune responses in HIV-infected Ugandans at time of CM diagnosis (IRIS-Baseline) for those who later developed CM-IRIS, controls who did not develop CM-IRIS (Control-Baseline) at CM-IRIS (IRIS-Event), and for controls at a time point matched for ART duration (Control-Event) to understand the association of monocyte distribution and immune responses with cryptococcal IRIS. At baseline, stimulation with IFN-γ ex vivo induced a higher frequency of TNF-α- and IL-6-producing monocytes among those who later developed IRIS. Among participants who developed IRIS, ex vivo IFN-γ stimulation induced higher frequencies of activated monocytes, IL-6+, TNF-α+ classical, and IL-6+ intermediate monocytes compared with controls. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that monocyte subset phenotype and cytokine responses prior to ART are associated with and may be predictive of CM-IRIS. Larger studies to further delineate innate immunological responses and the efficacy of immunomodulatory therapies during cryptococcal IRIS are warranted. PMID:29371546

IRIS TOXICOLOGICAL REVIEW AND SUMMARY DOCUMENTS FOR 2-HEXANONE

EPA Science Inventory

EPA will conduct an assessment of the noncancer health effects of 2-hexanone. The IRIS program will prepare an IRIS assessment for 2-hexanone. The IRIS assessment for 2-hexanone will consist of a Toxicological Review and an IRIS Summary. The Toxicological Review is a critical ...

Improving the healthcare response to domestic violence and abuse in sexual health clinics: feasibility study of a training, support and referral intervention

PubMed Central

Sohal, Alex Hardip; Pathak, Neha; Blake, Sarah; Apea, Vanessa; Berry, Judith; Bailey, Jayne; Griffiths, Chris; Feder, Gene

2018-01-01

Objectives Sexual health and gynaecological problems are the most consistent and largest physical health differences between abused and non-abused female populations. Sexual health services are well placed to identify and support patients experiencing domestic violence and abuse (DVA). Most sexual health professionals have had minimal DVA training despite English National Institute for Health and Care Excellence recommendations. We sought to determine the feasibility of an evidence-based complex DVA training intervention in female sexual health walk-in services (IRIS ADViSE: Identification and Referral to Improve Safety whilst Assessing Domestic Violence in Sexual Health Environments). Methods An adaptive mixed method pilot study in the female walk-in service of two sexual health clinics. Following implementation and evaluation at site 1, the intervention was refined before implementation at site 2. The intervention comprised electronic prompts, multidisciplinary training sessions, clinic materials and simple referral pathways to IRIS ADViSE advocate-educators (AEs). The pilot lasted 7 weeks at site 1 and 12 weeks at site 2. Feasibility outcomes were to assign a supportive DVA clinical lead, an IRIS ADViSE AE employed by a local DVA service provider, adapt electronic records, develop local referral pathways, assess whether enquiry, identification and referral rates were measurable. Results Both sites achieved all feasibility outcomes: appointing a supportive DVA clinical lead and IRIS ADViSE AE, establishing links with a local DVA provider, adapting electronic records, developing local referral pathways and rates of enquiry, identification and referral were found to be measurable. Site 1: 10% enquiry rate (n=267), 4% identification rate (n=16) and eight AE referrals. Site 2: 61% enquiry rate (n=1090), a 7% identification rate (n=79) and eight AE referrals. Conclusions IRIS ADViSE can be successfully developed and implemented in sexual health clinics. It fulfils the unmet need for DVA training. Longer-term evaluation is recommended. PMID:28724743

Scheimpflug with computational imaging to extend the depth of field of iris recognition systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sinharoy, Indranil

Despite the enormous success of iris recognition in close-range and well-regulated spaces for biometric authentication, it has hitherto failed to gain wide-scale adoption in less controlled, public environments. The problem arises from a limitation in imaging called the depth of field (DOF): the limited range of distances beyond which subjects appear blurry in the image. The loss of spatial details in the iris image outside the small DOF limits the iris image capture to a small volume-the capture volume. Existing techniques to extend the capture volume are usually expensive, computationally intensive, or afflicted by noise. Is there a way to combine the classical Scheimpflug principle with the modern computational imaging techniques to extend the capture volume? The solution we found is, surprisingly, simple; yet, it provides several key advantages over existing approaches. Our method, called Angular Focus Stacking (AFS), consists of capturing a set of images while rotating the lens, followed by registration, and blending of the in-focus regions from the images in the stack. The theoretical underpinnings of AFS arose from a pair of new and general imaging models we developed for Scheimpflug imaging that directly incorporates the pupil parameters. The model revealed that we could register the images in the stack analytically if we pivot the lens at the center of its entrance pupil, rendering the registration process exact. Additionally, we found that a specific lens design further reduces the complexity of image registration making AFS suitable for real-time performance. We have demonstrated up to an order of magnitude improvement in the axial capture volume over conventional image capture without sacrificing optical resolution and signal-to-noise ratio. The total time required for capturing the set of images for AFS is less than the time needed for a single-exposure, conventional image for the same DOF and brightness level. The net reduction in capture time can significantly relax the constraints on subject movement during iris acquisition, making it less restrictive.

Updated cannulation technique for tissue plasminogen activator injection into peripapillary retinal vein for central retinal vein occlusion.

PubMed

van Overdam, Koen A; Missotten, Tom; Spielberg, Leigh H

2015-12-01

To update the surgical technique in which a vitrectomy is performed and a retinal branch vein is cannulated and infused with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (RTPA) to treat central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) in patients who present with very low visual acuity (VA). Twelve consecutive patients (12 eyes) with CRVO and low VA (logMAR >1.00) at presentation were treated using this method. Cannulation of a peripapillary retinal vein and stable injection of RTPA was successfully performed without surgery-related complications in all 12 eyes. At 12 months after surgery, 8 of the 12 patients (67%) experienced at least one line of improvement in best corrected visual acuity; 6 of the 12 (50%) improved ≥5 lines and 2 (17%) improved ≥8 lines. After additional grid laser and/or subconjunctival or intravitreal corticosteroids, the mean decrease in central foveal thickness was 260 μm, and the mean total macular volume decreased from 12.10 mm(3) to 9.24 mm(3) . Four patients received panretinal photocoagulation to treat either iris neovascularization (n = 2) or neovascularization of the retina and/or disc (n = 2). Administration of RTPA via a peripapillary vein using this updated technique provides an alternative or additional treatment option for patients with very low VA after CRVO. © 2015 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Presentation Attack Detection for Iris Recognition System Using NIR Camera Sensor

PubMed Central

Nguyen, Dat Tien; Baek, Na Rae; Pham, Tuyen Danh; Park, Kang Ryoung

2018-01-01

Among biometric recognition systems such as fingerprint, finger-vein, or face, the iris recognition system has proven to be effective for achieving a high recognition accuracy and security level. However, several recent studies have indicated that an iris recognition system can be fooled by using presentation attack images that are recaptured using high-quality printed images or by contact lenses with printed iris patterns. As a result, this potential threat can reduce the security level of an iris recognition system. In this study, we propose a new presentation attack detection (PAD) method for an iris recognition system (iPAD) using a near infrared light (NIR) camera image. To detect presentation attack images, we first localized the iris region of the input iris image using circular edge detection (CED). Based on the result of iris localization, we extracted the image features using deep learning-based and handcrafted-based methods. The input iris images were then classified into real and presentation attack categories using support vector machines (SVM). Through extensive experiments with two public datasets, we show that our proposed method effectively solves the iris recognition presentation attack detection problem and produces detection accuracy superior to previous studies. PMID:29695113

Novel Approaches to Improve Iris Recognition System Performance Based on Local Quality Evaluation and Feature Fusion

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

For building a new iris template, this paper proposes a strategy to fuse different portions of iris based on machine learning method to evaluate local quality of iris. There are three novelties compared to previous work. Firstly, the normalized segmented iris is divided into multitracks and then each track is estimated individually to analyze the recognition accuracy rate (RAR). Secondly, six local quality evaluation parameters are adopted to analyze texture information of each track. Besides, particle swarm optimization (PSO) is employed to get the weights of these evaluation parameters and corresponding weighted coefficients of different tracks. Finally, all tracks' information is fused according to the weights of different tracks. The experimental results based on subsets of three public and one private iris image databases demonstrate three contributions of this paper. (1) Our experimental results prove that partial iris image cannot completely replace the entire iris image for iris recognition system in several ways. (2) The proposed quality evaluation algorithm is a self-adaptive algorithm, and it can automatically optimize the parameters according to iris image samples' own characteristics. (3) Our feature information fusion strategy can effectively improve the performance of iris recognition system. PMID:24693243

Improving iris recognition performance using segmentation, quality enhancement, match score fusion, and indexing.

PubMed

Vatsa, Mayank; Singh, Richa; Noore, Afzel

2008-08-01

This paper proposes algorithms for iris segmentation, quality enhancement, match score fusion, and indexing to improve both the accuracy and the speed of iris recognition. A curve evolution approach is proposed to effectively segment a nonideal iris image using the modified Mumford-Shah functional. Different enhancement algorithms are concurrently applied on the segmented iris image to produce multiple enhanced versions of the iris image. A support-vector-machine-based learning algorithm selects locally enhanced regions from each globally enhanced image and combines these good-quality regions to create a single high-quality iris image. Two distinct features are extracted from the high-quality iris image. The global textural feature is extracted using the 1-D log polar Gabor transform, and the local topological feature is extracted using Euler numbers. An intelligent fusion algorithm combines the textural and topological matching scores to further improve the iris recognition performance and reduce the false rejection rate, whereas an indexing algorithm enables fast and accurate iris identification. The verification and identification performance of the proposed algorithms is validated and compared with other algorithms using the CASIA Version 3, ICE 2005, and UBIRIS iris databases.

Novel approaches to improve iris recognition system performance based on local quality evaluation and feature fusion.

PubMed

Chen, Ying; Liu, Yuanning; Zhu, Xiaodong; Chen, Huiling; He, Fei; Pang, Yutong

2014-01-01

For building a new iris template, this paper proposes a strategy to fuse different portions of iris based on machine learning method to evaluate local quality of iris. There are three novelties compared to previous work. Firstly, the normalized segmented iris is divided into multitracks and then each track is estimated individually to analyze the recognition accuracy rate (RAR). Secondly, six local quality evaluation parameters are adopted to analyze texture information of each track. Besides, particle swarm optimization (PSO) is employed to get the weights of these evaluation parameters and corresponding weighted coefficients of different tracks. Finally, all tracks' information is fused according to the weights of different tracks. The experimental results based on subsets of three public and one private iris image databases demonstrate three contributions of this paper. (1) Our experimental results prove that partial iris image cannot completely replace the entire iris image for iris recognition system in several ways. (2) The proposed quality evaluation algorithm is a self-adaptive algorithm, and it can automatically optimize the parameters according to iris image samples' own characteristics. (3) Our feature information fusion strategy can effectively improve the performance of iris recognition system.

Presentation Attack Detection for Iris Recognition System Using NIR Camera Sensor.

PubMed

Nguyen, Dat Tien; Baek, Na Rae; Pham, Tuyen Danh; Park, Kang Ryoung

2018-04-24

Among biometric recognition systems such as fingerprint, finger-vein, or face, the iris recognition system has proven to be effective for achieving a high recognition accuracy and security level. However, several recent studies have indicated that an iris recognition system can be fooled by using presentation attack images that are recaptured using high-quality printed images or by contact lenses with printed iris patterns. As a result, this potential threat can reduce the security level of an iris recognition system. In this study, we propose a new presentation attack detection (PAD) method for an iris recognition system (iPAD) using a near infrared light (NIR) camera image. To detect presentation attack images, we first localized the iris region of the input iris image using circular edge detection (CED). Based on the result of iris localization, we extracted the image features using deep learning-based and handcrafted-based methods. The input iris images were then classified into real and presentation attack categories using support vector machines (SVM). Through extensive experiments with two public datasets, we show that our proposed method effectively solves the iris recognition presentation attack detection problem and produces detection accuracy superior to previous studies.

IRIS COLOUR CLASSIFICATION SCALES – THEN AND NOW

PubMed Central

Grigore, Mariana; Avram, Alina

2015-01-01

Eye colour is one of the most obvious phenotypic traits of an individual. Since the first documented classification scale developed in 1843, there have been numerous attempts to classify the iris colour. In the past centuries, iris colour classification scales has had various colour categories and mostly relied on comparison of an individual’s eye with painted glass eyes. Once photography techniques were refined, standard iris photographs replaced painted eyes, but this did not solve the problem of painted/ printed colour variability in time. Early clinical scales were easy to use, but lacked objectivity and were not standardised or statistically tested for reproducibility. The era of automated iris colour classification systems came with the technological development. Spectrophotometry, digital analysis of high-resolution iris images, hyper spectral analysis of the human real iris and the dedicated iris colour analysis software, all accomplished an objective, accurate iris colour classification, but are quite expensive and limited in use to research environment. Iris colour classification systems evolved continuously due to their use in a wide range of studies, especially in the fields of anthropology, epidemiology and genetics. Despite the wide range of the existing scales, up until present there has been no generally accepted iris colour classification scale. PMID:27373112

IRIS COLOUR CLASSIFICATION SCALES--THEN AND NOW.

PubMed

Grigore, Mariana; Avram, Alina

2015-01-01

Eye colour is one of the most obvious phenotypic traits of an individual. Since the first documented classification scale developed in 1843, there have been numerous attempts to classify the iris colour. In the past centuries, iris colour classification scales has had various colour categories and mostly relied on comparison of an individual's eye with painted glass eyes. Once photography techniques were refined, standard iris photographs replaced painted eyes, but this did not solve the problem of painted/ printed colour variability in time. Early clinical scales were easy to use, but lacked objectivity and were not standardised or statistically tested for reproducibility. The era of automated iris colour classification systems came with the technological development. Spectrophotometry, digital analysis of high-resolution iris images, hyper spectral analysis of the human real iris and the dedicated iris colour analysis software, all accomplished an objective, accurate iris colour classification, but are quite expensive and limited in use to research environment. Iris colour classification systems evolved continuously due to their use in a wide range of studies, especially in the fields of anthropology, epidemiology and genetics. Despite the wide range of the existing scales, up until present there has been no generally accepted iris colour classification scale.

Iris Recognition Using Feature Extraction of Box Counting Fractal Dimension

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khotimah, C.; Juniati, D.

2018-01-01

Biometrics is a science that is now growing rapidly. Iris recognition is a biometric modality which captures a photo of the eye pattern. The markings of the iris are distinctive that it has been proposed to use as a means of identification, instead of fingerprints. Iris recognition was chosen for identification in this research because every human has a special feature that each individual is different and the iris is protected by the cornea so that it will have a fixed shape. This iris recognition consists of three step: pre-processing of data, feature extraction, and feature matching. Hough transformation is used in the process of pre-processing to locate the iris area and Daugman’s rubber sheet model to normalize the iris data set into rectangular blocks. To find the characteristics of the iris, it was used box counting method to get the fractal dimension value of the iris. Tests carried out by used k-fold cross method with k = 5. In each test used 10 different grade K of K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN). The result of iris recognition was obtained with the best accuracy was 92,63 % for K = 3 value on K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) method.

Accurate Iris Recognition at a Distance Using Stabilized Iris Encoding and Zernike Moments Phase Features.

PubMed

Tan, Chun-Wei; Kumar, Ajay

2014-07-10

Accurate iris recognition from the distantly acquired face or eye images requires development of effective strategies which can account for significant variations in the segmented iris image quality. Such variations can be highly correlated with the consistency of encoded iris features and the knowledge that such fragile bits can be exploited to improve matching accuracy. A non-linear approach to simultaneously account for both local consistency of iris bit and also the overall quality of the weight map is proposed. Our approach therefore more effectively penalizes the fragile bits while simultaneously rewarding more consistent bits. In order to achieve more stable characterization of local iris features, a Zernike moment-based phase encoding of iris features is proposed. Such Zernike moments-based phase features are computed from the partially overlapping regions to more effectively accommodate local pixel region variations in the normalized iris images. A joint strategy is adopted to simultaneously extract and combine both the global and localized iris features. The superiority of the proposed iris matching strategy is ascertained by providing comparison with several state-of-the-art iris matching algorithms on three publicly available databases: UBIRIS.v2, FRGC, CASIA.v4-distance. Our experimental results suggest that proposed strategy can achieve significant improvement in iris matching accuracy over those competing approaches in the literature, i.e., average improvement of 54.3%, 32.7% and 42.6% in equal error rates, respectively for UBIRIS.v2, FRGC, CASIA.v4-distance.

A novel iris patterns matching algorithm of weighted polar frequency correlation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Weijie; Jiang, Linhua

2014-11-01

Iris recognition is recognized as one of the most accurate techniques for biometric authentication. In this paper, we present a novel correlation method - Weighted Polar Frequency Correlation(WPFC) - to match and evaluate two iris images, actually it can also be used for evaluating the similarity of any two images. The WPFC method is a novel matching and evaluating method for iris image matching, which is complete different from the conventional methods. For instance, the classical John Daugman's method of iris recognition uses 2D Gabor wavelets to extract features of iris image into a compact bit stream, and then matching two bit streams with hamming distance. Our new method is based on the correlation in the polar coordinate system in frequency domain with regulated weights. The new method is motivated by the observation that the pattern of iris that contains far more information for recognition is fine structure at high frequency other than the gross shapes of iris images. Therefore, we transform iris images into frequency domain and set different weights to frequencies. Then calculate the correlation of two iris images in frequency domain. We evaluate the iris images by summing the discrete correlation values with regulated weights, comparing the value with preset threshold to tell whether these two iris images are captured from the same person or not. Experiments are carried out on both CASIA database and self-obtained images. The results show that our method is functional and reliable. Our method provides a new prospect for iris recognition system.

Immunopathology of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome in Whipple's disease.

PubMed

Moos, Verena; Feurle, Gerhard E; Schinnerling, Katina; Geelhaar, Anika; Friebel, Julian; Allers, Kristina; Moter, Annette; Kikhney, Judith; Loddenkemper, Christoph; Kühl, Anja A; Erben, Ulrike; Fenollar, Florence; Raoult, Didier; Schneider, Thomas

2013-03-01

During antimicrobial treatment of classic Whipple's disease (CWD), the chronic systemic infection with Tropheryma whipplei, immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), is a serious complication. The aim of our study was to characterize the immunological processes underlying IRIS in CWD. Following the definition of IRIS, we describe histological features of IRIS and immunological parameters of 24 CWD IRIS patients, 189 CWD patients without IRIS, and 89 healthy individuals. T cell reconstitution, Th1 reactivity, and the phenotype of T cells were described in the peripheral blood, and infiltration of CD4(+) T cells and regulatory T cells in the duodenal mucosa was determined. During IRIS, tissues were heavily infiltrated by CD3(+), predominantly CD45RO(+)CD4(+) T cells. In the periphery, initial reduction of CD4(+) cell counts and their reconstitution on treatment was more pronounced in CWD patients with IRIS than in those without IRIS. The ratio of activated and regulatory CD4(+) T cells, nonspecific Th1 reactivity, and the proportion of naive among CD4(+) T cells was high, whereas serum IL-10 was low during IRIS. T. whipplei-specific Th1 reactivity remained suppressed before and after emergence of IRIS. The findings that IRIS in CWD mainly are mediated by nonspecific activation of CD4(+) T cells and that it is not sufficiently counterbalanced by regulatory T cells indicate that flare-up of pathogen-specific immunoreactivity is not instrumental in the pathogenesis of IRIS in CWD.

Incidence and Predictors of Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome in a Rural Area of Mozambique

PubMed Central

Letang, Emilio; Miró, José M.; Nhampossa, Tacilta; Ayala, Edgar; Gascon, Joaquim; Menéndez, Clara; Alonso, Pedro L.; Naniche, Denise

2011-01-01

Background There is limited data on the epidemiology of Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome (IRIS) in rural sub-Saharan Africa. A prospective observational cohort study was conducted to assess the incidence, clinical characteristics, outcome and predictors of IRIS in rural Mozambique. Methods One hundred and thirty-six consecutive antiretroviral treatment (ART)-naïve HIV-1-infected patients initiating ART at the Manhiça district hospital were prospectively followed for development of IRIS over 16 months. Survival analysis by Cox regression was performed to identify pre-ART predictors of IRIS development. Results Thirty-six patients developed IRIS [26.5%, incidence rate 3.1 cases/100 persons-month of ART (95% CI 2.2–4.3)]. Median time to IRIS onset was 62 days from ART initiation (IQR 35.5–93.5). Twenty-five cases (69.4%) were “unmasking”, 10 (27.8%) were “paradoxical”, and 1 (2.8%) developed a paradoxical worsening followed by the unmasking of another condition. Systemic OI (OI-IRIS) accounted for 47% (17/36) of IRIS cases, predominantly of KS (8 cases) and TB (6 cases) IRIS. Mucocutaneous IRIS manifestations (MC-IRIS) accounted for 53% (19/36) of IRIS events, mostly tinea (9 cases) and herpes simplex infection (3 cases). Multivariate analysis identified two independent predictors of IRIS development: pre-ART CD4 count <50 cells/µl (HR 2.3, 95% CI 1.19–4.44, p = 0.01) and body mass index (BMI) <18.5 (HR 2.15, 95% CI 1.07–4.3, p = 0.03). The pre-cART proportion of activated T-cells, as well as the immunologic and virologic response to ART were not associated with IRIS development. All patients continued on ART, 7 (19.4%) required hospitalization and there were 3 deaths (8.3%) attributable to IRIS. Conclusions IRIS is common in patients initiating ART in rural Mozambique. Pre-ART CD4 counts and BMI can easily be assessed at ART initiation in rural sub-Saharan Africa to identify patients at high risk of IRIS, for whom close supervision is warranted. PMID:21386993

Deployment of Indicator of Reduction in Soils (IRIS) Probes in Arctic Drained Thaw Lake Basins and Drainages: Time Integrated Signals of Soil Saturation and Redox

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heikoop, J. M.; Newman, B. D.; Hudak, M.; Gard, M.; Altmann, G.; Throckmorton, H.; Wilson, C. J.

2013-12-01

Climate driven warming and degradation of permafrost may lead to changes in the hydrology of low gradient regions like the North Slope of Alaska. Hydrologic changes will affect the saturation and redox state of soils in drained thaw lake basins (DTLBs), interlake areas, and associated drainages. These changes are being investigated at the Barrow Environmental Observatory (BEO) and surroundings as part of the Next Generation Ecosystem Experiment - Arctic project. As a complement to traditional redox and aqueous chemistry measurements, the use of indicator of reduction in soils (IRIS) probes is being assessed as a simple and cost-effective way to monitor redox changes. The probes consist of PVC sheets coated with a ferrihydrite paint. Under reducing conditions iron on these probes will partially dissolve. The amount of dissolution can be quantified by image analysis and related in a semi-quantitative fashion to redox conditions in the soils. IRIS probes have been successfully utilized in numerous temperate settings to demonstrate, for example, the presence of reducing soils for wetlands delineation. Test probes were installed in saturated soils for 48 hours in July, 2013. After 48 hours, minor reductive dissolution of ferrihydrite was observed. No sulfide precipitation was noted. As such, probes were installed in quadruplicate at 14 locations representing primarily outlet drainages from different-aged DTLBs and interlake areas. In each case, the probes were installed to refusal at the frost table within the active layer overlying the permafrost. IRIS probes were deployed adjacent to arrays of rhizon samplers used for soil pore water sampling so that time-integrated IRIS probe results can be compared to chemical results (a snapshot in time) obtained at the beginning and end of the monitoring period (probes will be extracted in September). Image analysis will employ LANL's GENIE technology. Field measurements of ferrous iron in water samples showed significant redox variation both between locations and with depth at each location. Values were lowest in surface waters (as low as zero mg/L) and were generally higher in soil pore water with values up to approximately 7 mg/L. Correlations between percentage iron removal from the IRIS probes and ferrous iron and other redox sensitive species will be presented. If correlations are significant, redox couples (ammonia/nitrate, Fe(II)/Fe(III), sulfide/sulfate) will be used to estimate Eh and to develop an empirical relationship for the use of IRIS probes in the BEO and surrounding environs.

Prospective evaluation of CO2 laser-assisted sclerectomy surgery (CLASS) with Mitomycin C.

PubMed

Cutolo, Carlo Alberto; Bagnis, Alessandro; Scotto, Riccardo; Bonzano, Chiara; Traverso, Carlo Enrico

2018-01-01

Our purpose was to evaluate the clinical safety and efficacy of CO 2 laser-assisted sclerectomy surgery (CLASS) with Mitomycin C (MMC) in open angle glaucoma (OAG). This was a prospective, uncontrolled, interventional case series. All subjects underwent CLASS procedure by a single surgeon. After the dissection of a partial thickness scleral flap, topical MMC 0.2 mg/ml was applied to the sclera and the conjunctiva for 3 min. The CO 2 laser with a beam-manipulating system was used to ablate the scleral tissue and expose the Schlemm's canal area. Primary outcomes: intraocular pressure (IOP) change, number of IOP-lowering medicaments change. Adverse events were evaluated as secondary outcomes. Twenty-one eyes of 21 patients underwent the CLASS procedure. Thirteen were primary OAG (62%), two normal pressure glaucoma (10%), three exfoliative glaucoma (14%) and three others secondary OAG. With a mean (SD) follow-up of 15.3 (5.9) months, the IOP changed from 25.4 (6.7) mmHg at baseline to 10.9 (3.4) mmHg al the last visit. Mean reduction of IOP was -14.5 mmHg (95% CI, -17.7 to -11.2, P < 0.001). The median (IQR) number of IOP-lowering medication decreased from 3 (3-3) at baseline to 1 (0-1) at the last visit (P < 0.001). Visual acuity did not change significantly. Adverse events: five eyes (24%) developed iris adhesion to the filtration area that was successfully managed with office-based procedures. In one case (5%), CLASS was converted to trabeculectomy due to intraoperative perforation of the ablated area. There was one case of hypotony maculopathy successfully treated with placement of additional transconjunctival scleral flap sutures. The CLASS procedure with MMC is clinically safe and effective maintaining a large reduction in IOP and in the number of IOP-lowering medications with a mean follow-up of 15 months. Iris adhesion at the filtrating area warrants further evaluation and possibly reflects the surgeon's learning curve.

Effect of iris registration on outcomes of FEMTOLASIK for myopia and myopic astigmatism.

PubMed

Ghoreishi, Mohammad; Beni, Zahra Naderi; Beni, Afsaneh Naderi; Kianersi, Farzan

2017-09-05

To compare the visual and refractive outcomes after FEMTOLASIK with and without iris registration. In this randomized, prospective, comparative, contralateral eye study, 118 eyes of 59 patients with myopia and myopic astigmatism underwent LASIK using the Femto LDV femtosecond laser (160 µm) and the MEL80 with or without iris registration. For each patient, iris registration FEMTOLASIK was performed on one eye and non-iris registration FEMTOLASIK was performed on the other eye, assigned at random. Patients were evaluated before and 12 months. Uncorrected visual acuity, best-corrected visual acuity, manifest refraction, contrast sensitivity, and higher-order aberrations (HOAs) were evaluated. At 12 months, the mean UDVA was 0.002 ± 0.07 logMAR (20/19) in iris registration eyes and 0.00 ± 0.06 logMAR (20/24) in non-iris registration eyes (P = 0.9). 61% of iris registration eyes and 71.2% of non-iris registration eyes achieved a UDVA of 20/20 or better (P = 0.31); 98.3% of eyes with the iris registration FEMTOLASIK and 94.9% with the non-iris registration FEMTOLASIK were within ±0.50 D from emmetropia (P = 0.71). No statistically significant difference was found in postoperative contrast sensitivity between groups at 3, 6, 12, or 18 cycles/degree (P > 0.05). There was significant increase in total HOA root mean square in two groups. The mean error magnitude of surgically induced astigmatism 12 months postoperatively was -0.33 in iris registration eyes and -0.24 in the non-iris registration eyes (P = 0.36). FEMTOLASIK with and without iris registration provides similar results in myopic and myopic astigmatism patients.

Steatotic livers are susceptible to normothermic ischemia-reperfusion injury from mitochondrial Complex-I dysfunction

PubMed Central

Chu, Michael JJ; Premkumar, Rakesh; Hickey, Anthony JR; Jiang, Yannan; Delahunt, Brett; Phillips, Anthony RJ; Bartlett, Adam SJR

2016-01-01

AIM: To assess the effects of ischemic preconditioning (IPC, 10-min ischemia/10-min reperfusion) on steatotic liver mitochondrial function after normothermic ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). METHODS: Sixty male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed 8-wk with either control chow or high-fat/high-sucrose diet inducing > 60% mixed steatosis. Three groups (n = 10/group) for each dietary state were tested: (1) the IRI group underwent 60 min partial hepatic ischemia and 4 h reperfusion; (2) the IPC group underwent IPC prior to same standard IRI; and (3) sham underwent the same surgery without IRI or IPC. Hepatic mitochondrial function was analyzed by oxygraphs. Mitochondrial Complex-I, Complex-II enzyme activity, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and histological injury were measured. RESULTS: Steatotic-IRI livers had a greater increase in ALT (2476 ± 166 vs 1457 ± 103 IU/L, P < 0.01) and histological injury following IRI compared to the lean liver group. Steatotic-IRI demonstrated lower Complex-I activity at baseline [78.4 ± 2.5 vs 116.4 ± 6.0 nmol/(min.mg protein), P < 0.001] and following IRI [28.0 ± 6.2 vs 104.3 ± 12.6 nmol/(min.mg protein), P < 0.001]. Steatotic-IRI also demonstrated impaired Complex-I function post-IRI compared to the lean liver IRI group. Complex-II activity was unaffected by hepatic steatosis or IRI. Lean liver mitochondrial function was unchanged following IRI. IPC normalized ALT and histological injury in steatotic livers but had no effect on overall steatotic liver mitochondrial function or individual mitochondrial complex enzyme activities. CONCLUSION: Warm IRI impairs steatotic liver Complex-I activity and function. The protective effects of IPC in steatotic livers may not be mediated through mitochondria. PMID:27217699

IRIS Toxicological Review and Summary Documents for N ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

EPA's assessment of the noncancer health effects and carcinogenic potential of n-hexane was last prepared and added to the IRIS data base in 1990. The IRIS program is updating the IRIS assessment for n-hexane; this update will incorporate health effects information published since the last assessment was prepared as well as new risk assessment methods. The IRIS assessment for n-hexane will consist of a Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary. The Toxicological Review is a critical review of the physicochemical and toxicokinetic properties of the chemical and its toxicity in humans and experimental systems. The assessment will present reference values for noncancer effects of n-hexane (RfD and RfC) and a cancer assessment, where supported by available data. The Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary will be subject to internal peer consultation, Agency review, and external scientific peer review. EPA is undertaking an update of the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for n-hexane. The outcome of this project is an updated Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary for n-Hexane that will be entered into the IRIS database. IRIS is an EPA data base containing Agency scientific positions on potential adverse human health effects that may result from chronic (or lifetime) exposure to chemicals in the environment. IRIS contains chemical-specific summaries of qualitative and quantitative health information in support of two steps of the risk assessment

A Statistical Analysis of IrisCode and Its Security Implications.

PubMed

Kong, Adams Wai-Kin

2015-03-01

IrisCode has been used to gather iris data for 430 million people. Because of the huge impact of IrisCode, it is vital that it is completely understood. This paper first studies the relationship between bit probabilities and a mean of iris images (The mean of iris images is defined as the average of independent iris images.) and then uses the Chi-square statistic, the correlation coefficient and a resampling algorithm to detect statistical dependence between bits. The results show that the statistical dependence forms a graph with a sparse and structural adjacency matrix. A comparison of this graph with a graph whose edges are defined by the inner product of the Gabor filters that produce IrisCodes shows that partial statistical dependence is induced by the filters and propagates through the graph. Using this statistical information, the security risk associated with two patented template protection schemes that have been deployed in commercial systems for producing application-specific IrisCodes is analyzed. To retain high identification speed, they use the same key to lock all IrisCodes in a database. The belief has been that if the key is not compromised, the IrisCodes are secure. This study shows that even without the key, application-specific IrisCodes can be unlocked and that the key can be obtained through the statistical dependence detected.

Noisy Ocular Recognition Based on Three Convolutional Neural Networks

PubMed Central

Lee, Min Beom; Hong, Hyung Gil; Park, Kang Ryoung

2017-01-01

In recent years, the iris recognition system has been gaining increasing acceptance for applications such as access control and smartphone security. When the images of the iris are obtained under unconstrained conditions, an issue of undermined quality is caused by optical and motion blur, off-angle view (the user’s eyes looking somewhere else, not into the front of the camera), specular reflection (SR) and other factors. Such noisy iris images increase intra-individual variations and, as a result, reduce the accuracy of iris recognition. A typical iris recognition system requires a near-infrared (NIR) illuminator along with an NIR camera, which are larger and more expensive than fingerprint recognition equipment. Hence, many studies have proposed methods of using iris images captured by a visible light camera without the need for an additional illuminator. In this research, we propose a new recognition method for noisy iris and ocular images by using one iris and two periocular regions, based on three convolutional neural networks (CNNs). Experiments were conducted by using the noisy iris challenge evaluation-part II (NICE.II) training dataset (selected from the university of Beira iris (UBIRIS).v2 database), mobile iris challenge evaluation (MICHE) database, and institute of automation of Chinese academy of sciences (CASIA)-Iris-Distance database. As a result, the method proposed by this study outperformed previous methods. PMID:29258217

IRIS TOXICOLOGICAL REVIEW AND SUMMARY DOCUMENTS FOR 1,1,1-TRICHLOROETHANE (PEER REVIEW PLAN)

EPA Science Inventory

EPA's assessment of the carcinogenic potential of 1,1,1-trichloroethane was entered into the IRIS database in 1988, and the assessment of noncancer effects following oral exposure was withdrawn from IRIS in 1991. The IRIS program prepared an update of the IRIS assessment for 1,1,...

Iris double recognition based on modified evolutionary neural network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Shuai; Liu, Yuan-Ning; Zhu, Xiao-Dong; Huo, Guang; Liu, Wen-Tao; Feng, Jia-Kai

2017-11-01

Aiming at multicategory iris recognition under illumination and noise interference, this paper proposes a method of iris double recognition based on a modified evolutionary neural network. An equalization histogram and Laplace of Gaussian operator are used to process the iris to suppress illumination and noise interference and Haar wavelet to convert the iris feature to binary feature encoding. Calculate the Hamming distance for the test iris and template iris , and compare with classification threshold, determine the type of iris. If the iris cannot be identified as a different type, there needs to be a secondary recognition. The connection weights in back-propagation (BP) neural network use modified evolutionary neural network to adaptively train. The modified neural network is composed of particle swarm optimization with mutation operator and BP neural network. According to different iris libraries in different circumstances of experimental results, under illumination and noise interference, the correct recognition rate of this algorithm is higher, the ROC curve is closer to the coordinate axis, the training and recognition time is shorter, and the stability and the robustness are better.

Ordinal measures for iris recognition.

PubMed

Sun, Zhenan; Tan, Tieniu

2009-12-01

Images of a human iris contain rich texture information useful for identity authentication. A key and still open issue in iris recognition is how best to represent such textural information using a compact set of features (iris features). In this paper, we propose using ordinal measures for iris feature representation with the objective of characterizing qualitative relationships between iris regions rather than precise measurements of iris image structures. Such a representation may lose some image-specific information, but it achieves a good trade-off between distinctiveness and robustness. We show that ordinal measures are intrinsic features of iris patterns and largely invariant to illumination changes. Moreover, compactness and low computational complexity of ordinal measures enable highly efficient iris recognition. Ordinal measures are a general concept useful for image analysis and many variants can be derived for ordinal feature extraction. In this paper, we develop multilobe differential filters to compute ordinal measures with flexible intralobe and interlobe parameters such as location, scale, orientation, and distance. Experimental results on three public iris image databases demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed ordinal feature models.

Multiple local feature representations and their fusion based on an SVR model for iris recognition using optimized Gabor filters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Fei; Liu, Yuanning; Zhu, Xiaodong; Huang, Chun; Han, Ye; Dong, Hongxing

2014-12-01

Gabor descriptors have been widely used in iris texture representations. However, fixed basic Gabor functions cannot match the changing nature of diverse iris datasets. Furthermore, a single form of iris feature cannot overcome difficulties in iris recognition, such as illumination variations, environmental conditions, and device variations. This paper provides multiple local feature representations and their fusion scheme based on a support vector regression (SVR) model for iris recognition using optimized Gabor filters. In our iris system, a particle swarm optimization (PSO)- and a Boolean particle swarm optimization (BPSO)-based algorithm is proposed to provide suitable Gabor filters for each involved test dataset without predefinition or manual modulation. Several comparative experiments on JLUBR-IRIS, CASIA-I, and CASIA-V4-Interval iris datasets are conducted, and the results show that our work can generate improved local Gabor features by using optimized Gabor filters for each dataset. In addition, our SVR fusion strategy may make full use of their discriminative ability to improve accuracy and reliability. Other comparative experiments show that our approach may outperform other popular iris systems.

Effects of Iris Surface Curvature on Iris Recognition

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Thompson, Joseph T; Flynn, Patrick J; Bowyer, Kevin W

To focus on objects at various distances, the lens of the eye must change shape to adjust its refractive power. This change in lens shape causes a change in the shape of the iris surface which can be measured by examining the curvature of the iris. This work isolates the variable of iris curvature in the recognition process and shows that differences in iris curvature degrade matching ability. To our knowledge, no other work has examined the effects of varying iris curvature on matching ability. To examine this degradation, we conduct a matching experiment across pairs of images with varyingmore » degrees of iris curvature differences. The results show a statistically signi cant degradation in matching ability. Finally, the real world impact of these ndings is discussed« less

IRIS Toxicological Review of Benzo[a]pyrene (Interagency ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

In January 2017, EPA finalized the IRIS assessment of Benzo[a]pyrene. The Toxicological Review was reviewed internally by EPA and by other federal agencies and White House Offices before public release. Consistent with the May 2009 IRIS assessment development process, all written comments on IRIS assessments submitted by other federal agencies and White House Offices are made publicly available. Accordingly, interagency comments and the interagency science discussion materials provided to other agencies, including interagency review drafts of the IRIS Toxicological Review of Benzo[a]pyrene are posted on this site. EPA is undertaking an update of the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for benzo[a]pyrene (BaP). The outcome of this project is an updated Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary for BaP that will be entered into the IRIS database.

Comparing the efficacy of mydriatic cocktail-soaked sponge and conventional pupil dilation in patients using tamsulosin – a randomized controlled trial

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background A strong association exists between the use of tamsulosin and the occurance of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome. Several methods were advocated to overcome the progressive intraopertive miosis. Our purpose was to investigate the effect of a mydriatic-cocktail soaked cellulose sponge on perioperative pupil diameter in tamsulosin-treated patients undergoing elective cataract surgery. Methods Patients using tamsulosin were dilated either with mydriatic-cocktail soaked sponge (group 1) or with conventional eyedrop regimen (group 2). Control patients not taking any α1 adrenergic receptor inhibtors were also dilated with mydriatic sponge (group 3). In all groups oxybuprocain 0.4%, cocain 4%, tropicamide 1%, phenylephrine 10%, diclophenac 0.1% along with chloramphenicol 0.5% were used preoperatively. Pupil diameter (mm) was measured preoperatively, after nucleus delivery, and before IOL implantation. Adverse effects associated with the use of sponge, minor and major intraoperative complications, the use of iris retractors and operation time were recorded. Differences in general between groups were analyzed with a one way analysis of variance (ANOVA); differences between groups in proportions were assessed by Fisher’s exact test. Results Mean pupil diameter (mm) was preopertively: 7.52 ± 1.21, 7.30 ± 1.55 and 7.99 ± 0.96 (ANOVA: p = 0.079); after nucleus delivery: 6 ± 1.20, 6.29 ± 1.12 and 6.52 ± 0.81 (ANOVA: p = 0.123); before IOL implantation: 5.46 ± 1.06, 5.83 ± 1.09 and 6.17 ± 0.89 (ANOVA: p = 0.0291). No adverse effect related to sponge use was detected. Frequency of minor complications, and iris hook use was similar in the two tamsulosin treated group. Operation time did not differ significantly in the three groups. Conclusion We have found that using a mydriatic cocktail-soaked wick – an alternative way to achieve intraoperative mydriasis for cataract surgery – was as effective and safe as the conventional repeated eyedrops regiment for tamsulosin treated patients. Trial registration Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN37834752 PMID:24359572

IrisDenseNet: Robust Iris Segmentation Using Densely Connected Fully Convolutional Networks in the Images by Visible Light and Near-Infrared Light Camera Sensors

PubMed Central

Arsalan, Muhammad; Naqvi, Rizwan Ali; Kim, Dong Seop; Nguyen, Phong Ha; Owais, Muhammad; Park, Kang Ryoung

2018-01-01

The recent advancements in computer vision have opened new horizons for deploying biometric recognition algorithms in mobile and handheld devices. Similarly, iris recognition is now much needed in unconstraint scenarios with accuracy. These environments make the acquired iris image exhibit occlusion, low resolution, blur, unusual glint, ghost effect, and off-angles. The prevailing segmentation algorithms cannot cope with these constraints. In addition, owing to the unavailability of near-infrared (NIR) light, iris recognition in visible light environment makes the iris segmentation challenging with the noise of visible light. Deep learning with convolutional neural networks (CNN) has brought a considerable breakthrough in various applications. To address the iris segmentation issues in challenging situations by visible light and near-infrared light camera sensors, this paper proposes a densely connected fully convolutional network (IrisDenseNet), which can determine the true iris boundary even with inferior-quality images by using better information gradient flow between the dense blocks. In the experiments conducted, five datasets of visible light and NIR environments were used. For visible light environment, noisy iris challenge evaluation part-II (NICE-II selected from UBIRIS.v2 database) and mobile iris challenge evaluation (MICHE-I) datasets were used. For NIR environment, the institute of automation, Chinese academy of sciences (CASIA) v4.0 interval, CASIA v4.0 distance, and IIT Delhi v1.0 iris datasets were used. Experimental results showed the optimal segmentation of the proposed IrisDenseNet and its excellent performance over existing algorithms for all five datasets. PMID:29748495

IrisDenseNet: Robust Iris Segmentation Using Densely Connected Fully Convolutional Networks in the Images by Visible Light and Near-Infrared Light Camera Sensors.

PubMed

Arsalan, Muhammad; Naqvi, Rizwan Ali; Kim, Dong Seop; Nguyen, Phong Ha; Owais, Muhammad; Park, Kang Ryoung

2018-05-10

The recent advancements in computer vision have opened new horizons for deploying biometric recognition algorithms in mobile and handheld devices. Similarly, iris recognition is now much needed in unconstraint scenarios with accuracy. These environments make the acquired iris image exhibit occlusion, low resolution, blur, unusual glint, ghost effect, and off-angles. The prevailing segmentation algorithms cannot cope with these constraints. In addition, owing to the unavailability of near-infrared (NIR) light, iris recognition in visible light environment makes the iris segmentation challenging with the noise of visible light. Deep learning with convolutional neural networks (CNN) has brought a considerable breakthrough in various applications. To address the iris segmentation issues in challenging situations by visible light and near-infrared light camera sensors, this paper proposes a densely connected fully convolutional network (IrisDenseNet), which can determine the true iris boundary even with inferior-quality images by using better information gradient flow between the dense blocks. In the experiments conducted, five datasets of visible light and NIR environments were used. For visible light environment, noisy iris challenge evaluation part-II (NICE-II selected from UBIRIS.v2 database) and mobile iris challenge evaluation (MICHE-I) datasets were used. For NIR environment, the institute of automation, Chinese academy of sciences (CASIA) v4.0 interval, CASIA v4.0 distance, and IIT Delhi v1.0 iris datasets were used. Experimental results showed the optimal segmentation of the proposed IrisDenseNet and its excellent performance over existing algorithms for all five datasets.

The International Reference Ionosphere Today and in the Future

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bilitza, Dieter; McKinnell, Lee-Ane; Reinisch, Bodo; Fuller-Rowell,Tim

2010-01-01

The international reference ionosphere (IRI) is the internationally recognized and recommended standard for the specification of plasma parameters in Earth's ionosphere. It describes monthly averages of electron density, electron temperature, ion temperature, ion composition, and several additional parameters in the altitude range from 60 to 1,500 km. A joint working group of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) and the International Union of Radio Science (URSI) is in charge of developing and improving the IRI model. As requested by COSPAR and URSI, IRI is an empirical model being based on most of the available and reliable data sources for the ionospheric plasma. The paper describes the latest version of the model and reviews efforts towards future improvements, including the development of new global models for the F2 peak density and height, and a new approach to describe the electron density in the topside and plasmasphere. Our emphasis will be on the electron density because it is the IRI parameter most relevant to geodetic techniques and studies. Annual IRI meetings are the main venue for the discussion of IRI activities, future improvements, and additions to the model. A new special IRI task force activity is focusing on the development of a real-time IRI (RT-IRI) by combining data assimilation techniques with the IRI model. A first RT-IRI task force meeting was held in 2009 in Colorado Springs. We will review the outcome of this meeting and the plans for the future. The IRI homepage is at http://www.IRI.gsfc.nasa.gov

Lattice-like collagen fiber meshwork in the iris stroma of the cat: a possible mechanism to generate the tension directed towards the iris root which is required for pupillary dilatation in the sympathectomized eye.

PubMed

Sakuraba, M; Yun, S; Ichinohe, N; Yonekura, H; Shoumura, K

1999-10-01

NaOH digestion technique for collagen fiber dissection and scanning electron microscopy demonstrated a lattice-like meshwork in the anterior surface of the iris stroma of the cat. The mesh threads were made of collagen fibril bundles. In the constricted pupil, the meshes were square to rhomboid with the diagonals in the direction of the radius or circumference of the iris. In the dilated pupil, however, the meshes were strongly flattened rhomboid or ellipse with a longer diagnoal or axis in the circumferential direction. At the mesh corners facing the pupillary margin or the iris root, the collagen fibril bundles were strongly bent in the iris of the constricted pupil, while they were almost straight or slightly wavy in the iris of the dilated pupil. Accumulation of elasticity tension generated by this small distortion of the iris-mesh threads in the constricted pupil was considered to generate a tension directed towards the iris root, which is required for pupillary dilatation in the sympathectomized eye. On the posterior surface of the iris stroma, numerous thin pleats tightly woven with collagen fibrils traversed straightway through the radial length of the ciliary zone of the iris in both constricted and dilated pupils. The structural changes of these pleats in miosis and mydriasis were very small compared with the meshwork of the anterior aspect of the iris. Therefore, they were considered to work mainly as an iris skeleton.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Hexahydro-1,3,5-Trinitro-1,3,5 ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

EPA is developing an Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) assessment of hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) and has released the draft assessment for public comment. When final, the assessment will appear on the IRIS database. EPA is undertaking an update of the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for RDX. The outcome of this project is an updated Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary for RDX that will be entered into the IRIS database.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Benzo[a]pyrene (Public ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

EPA is developing an Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) assessment of benzo[a]pyrene and has released the draft assessment for public comment and external peer review. When final, the assessment will appear on the IRIS database. EPA is undertaking an update of the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for benzo[a]pyrene (BaP). The outcome of this project is an updated Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary for BaP that will be entered into the IRIS database.

A novel iris localization algorithm using correlation filtering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pohit, Mausumi; Sharma, Jitu

2015-06-01

Fast and efficient segmentation of iris from the eye images is a primary requirement for robust database independent iris recognition. In this paper we have presented a new algorithm for computing the inner and outer boundaries of the iris and locating the pupil centre. Pupil-iris boundary computation is based on correlation filtering approach, whereas iris-sclera boundary is determined through one dimensional intensity mapping. The proposed approach is computationally less extensive when compared with the existing algorithms like Hough transform.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Tert-Butyl Alcohol (Tert-Butanol) ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

On April 29, 2016, the Toxicological Review of tert-Butyl Alcohol (tert-Butanol) (Public Comment Draft) was released for public comment. The draft Toxicological Review and charge were reviewed internally by EPA and by other federal agencies and the Executive Office of the President during Step 3 (Interagency Science Consultation) before public release. As part of the IRIS process, all written interagency comments on IRIS assessments will be made publicly available. Accordingly, interagency comments with EPA's response and the interagency science consultation drafts of the IRIS Toxicological Review of tert-Butanol and charge to external peer reviewers are posted on this site. EPA is undertaking a new health assessment for t-butyl alcohol (tert-butanol) for the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS). The outcome of this project will be a Toxicological Review and IRIS and IRIS Summary of TBA that will be entered on the IRIS database. IRIS is an EPA database containing Agency scientific positions on potential adverse human health effects that may result from chronic (or lifetime) exposure to chemicals in the environment. IRIS contains chemical-specific summaries of qualitative and quantitative health information to evaluate potential public health risks associated with environmental contaminants. The IRIS database is relied on for the development of risk assessments, site-specific environmental decisions, and rule making.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Ethyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (Etbe) ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

In September 2016, EPA released the draft IRIS Toxicological Review of Ethyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (ETBE) for public comment and discussion. The draft assessment was reviewed internally by EPA and by other federal agencies and White House Offices before public release. Consistent with the May 2009 IRIS assessment development process, all written comments on IRIS assessments submitted by other federal agencies and White House Offices are made publicly available. Accordingly, interagency comments and the interagency science consultation materials provided to other agencies, including interagency review drafts of the IRIS Toxicological Review of Ethyl Tertiary Butyl Ether are posted on this site. EPA is undertaking an new health assessment for ethyl tertiary butyl ether (ETBE) for the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS). The outcome of this project will be a Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary of ETBE that will be entered on the IRIS database. IRIS is an EPA database containing Agency scientific positions on potential adverse human health effects that may result from chronic (or lifetime) exposure to chemicals in the environment. IRIS contains chemical-specific summaries of qualitative and quantitative health information in support of two steps of the risk assessment process, i.e., hazard identification and dose-response evaluation. IRIS assessments are used nationally and internationally in combination with specific situational exposure assessment infor

IRIS Toxicological Review of Biphenyl (Interagency Science ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

On September 30, 2011, the draft Toxicological Review of Biphenyl and the charge to external peer reviewers were released for external peer review and public comment. The Toxicological Review and charge were reviewed internally by EPA and by other federal agencies and White House Offices before public release. In the new IRIS process (May 2009), introduced by the EPA Administrator, all written comments on IRIS assessments submitted by other federal agencies and White House Offices will be made publicly available. Accordingly, interagency comments and the interagency science consultation draft of the IRIS Toxicological Review of Biphenyl and the charge to external peer reviewers are posted on this site. EPA is undertaking a new health assessment for biphenyl for the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS). The outcome of this project will be a Toxicological Review and IRIS and IRIS Summary of biohenyl that will be entered on the IRIS database. IRIS is an EPA database containing Agency scientific positions on potential adverse human health effects that may result from chronic (or lifetime) exposure to chemicals in the environment. IRIS contains chemical-specific summaries of qualitative and quantitative health information to evaluate potential public health risks associated with exposure assessment information to evaluate potential public health risks associated with environmental contaminants. The IRIS database is relied on for the development of risk ass

IRIS TOXICOLOGICAL REVIEW AND SUMMARY ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

EPA's assessment of the noncancer health effects and carcinogenic potential of 1,2,3-trichloropropane (TCP) was added to the IRIS database in 1990. The IRIS program is updating the IRIS assessment for TCP. This update will incorporate health effects information published since the last assessment was prepared as well as new risk assessment methods. The IRIS assessment for TCP will consist of a Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary. The Toxicological Review is a critical review of the physicochemical and toxicokinetic properties of the chemical and its toxicity in humans and experimental systems. The assessment will present reference values for noncancer effects of TCP (RfD and RfC) and a cancer assessment. The Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary will be subject to internal peer consultation, Agency review, and external scientific peer review. The final products will constitute the Agency's opinion on the toxicity of TCP. EPA is undertaking an Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for 1,2,3-trichloropropane. IRIS is an EPA database containing the Agency's consensus scientific positions on potential adverse human effects that may result from chronic (or lifetime) exposure to chemicals in the environment. IRIS contains chemical-specific summaries of qualitative and quantitative health information in support of two steps of the risk assessment process, i.e., hazard identification and dose-response evaluation. IRIS assessments are used in

Matrix metalloproteinases and tissue damage in HIV-tuberculosis immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome

PubMed Central

Tadokera, Rebecca; Meintjes, Graeme A; Wilkinson, Katalin A; Skolimowska, Keira H; Walker, Naomi; Friedland, Jon S; Maartens, Gary; Elkington, Paul T G; Wilkinson, Robert J

2014-01-01

The HIV-TB-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (TB-IRIS) can complicate combined treatments for HIV-1 and TB. Little is known about tissue damage in TB-IRIS. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) degrade components of the extracellular matrix and consequently may play a role in such immunopathology. Here we investigated the involvement of MMPs in TB-IRIS. We determined MMP transcript abundance and secreted protein in Mycobacterium tuberculosis stimulated PBMCs from 22 TB-IRIS patients and 22 non-IRIS controls. We also measured MMP protein levels in corresponding serum and the effect of prednisone — which reduces the duration of symptoms in IRIS patients — or placebo treatment on MMP transcript and circulating MMP protein levels. PBMCs from TB-IRIS had increased MMP-1,-3,-7, and-10 transcript levels when compared with those of controls at either 6 or 24 h. Similarly, MMP-1,-3,-7, and-10 protein secretion in stimulated cultures was higher in TB-IRIS than in controls. Serum MMP-7 concentration was elevated in TB-IRIS and 2 weeks of corticosteroid therapy decreased this level, although not significantly. TB-IRIS is associated with a distinct pattern of MMP gene and protein activation. Modulation of dysregulated MMP activity may represent a novel therapeutic approach to alleviate TB-IRIS in HIV-TB patients undergoing treatment. PMID:24136296

[Moxiflaxin and iris transillumination].

PubMed

Broens, A; Collignon, N

2016-07-01

Bilateral Acute Iris Transillumination (BAIT) is a new clinical entity characterized by acute onset of pigment dispersion in the anterior chamber and angle, depigmentation of the iris stroma and permanent iris transillumination, masquerading as uveitis. An association with oral moxifloxacin is reported in some articles. We describe one case of bilateral acute iris transillumination, following the use of systemic moxifloxacin.

Human iris three-dimensional imaging at micron resolution by a micro-plenoptic camera

PubMed Central

Chen, Hao; Woodward, Maria A.; Burke, David T.; Jeganathan, V. Swetha E.; Demirci, Hakan; Sick, Volker

2017-01-01

A micro-plenoptic system was designed to capture the three-dimensional (3D) topography of the anterior iris surface by simple single-shot imaging. Within a depth-of-field of 2.4 mm, depth resolution of 10 µm can be achieved with accuracy (systematic errors) and precision (random errors) below 20%. We demonstrated the application of our micro-plenoptic imaging system on two healthy irides, an iris with naevi, and an iris with melanoma. The ridges and folds, with height differences of 10~80 µm, on the healthy irides can be effectively captured. The front surface on the iris naevi was flat, and the iris melanoma was 50 ± 10 µm higher than the surrounding iris. The micro-plenoptic imaging system has great potential to be utilized for iris disease diagnosis and continuing, simple monitoring. PMID:29082081

Human iris three-dimensional imaging at micron resolution by a micro-plenoptic camera.

PubMed

Chen, Hao; Woodward, Maria A; Burke, David T; Jeganathan, V Swetha E; Demirci, Hakan; Sick, Volker

2017-10-01

A micro-plenoptic system was designed to capture the three-dimensional (3D) topography of the anterior iris surface by simple single-shot imaging. Within a depth-of-field of 2.4 mm, depth resolution of 10 µm can be achieved with accuracy (systematic errors) and precision (random errors) below 20%. We demonstrated the application of our micro-plenoptic imaging system on two healthy irides, an iris with naevi, and an iris with melanoma. The ridges and folds, with height differences of 10~80 µm, on the healthy irides can be effectively captured. The front surface on the iris naevi was flat, and the iris melanoma was 50 ± 10 µm higher than the surrounding iris. The micro-plenoptic imaging system has great potential to be utilized for iris disease diagnosis and continuing, simple monitoring.

Toward noncooperative iris recognition: a classification approach using multiple signatures.

PubMed

Proença, Hugo; Alexandre, Luís A

2007-04-01

This paper focuses on noncooperative iris recognition, i.e., the capture of iris images at large distances, under less controlled lighting conditions, and without active participation of the subjects. This increases the probability of capturing very heterogeneous images (regarding focus, contrast, or brightness) and with several noise factors (iris obstructions and reflections). Current iris recognition systems are unable to deal with noisy data and substantially increase their error rates, especially the false rejections, in these conditions. We propose an iris classification method that divides the segmented and normalized iris image into six regions, makes an independent feature extraction and comparison for each region, and combines each of the dissimilarity values through a classification rule. Experiments show a substantial decrease, higher than 40 percent, of the false rejection rates in the recognition of noisy iris images.

Validation of a published case definition for tuberculosis-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome.

PubMed

Haddow, Lewis J; Moosa, Mahomed-Yunus S; Easterbrook, Philippa J

2010-01-02

To evaluate the International Network for the Study of HIV-associated IRIS (INSHI) case definitions for tuberculosis (TB)-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) in a South African cohort. Prospective cohort of 498 adult HIV-infected patients initiating antiretroviral therapy. Patients were followed up for 24 weeks and all clinical events were recorded. Events with TB-IRIS as possible cause were assessed by consensus expert opinion and INSHI case definition. Positive, negative, and chance-corrected agreement (kappa) were calculated, and reasons for disagreement were assessed. One hundred and two (20%) patients were receiving TB therapy at antiretroviral therapy initiation. Three hundred and thirty-three events were evaluated (74 potential paradoxical IRIS, 259 potential unmasking IRIS). Based on expert opinion, there were 18 cases of paradoxical IRIS associated with TB and/or other opportunistic disease. The INSHI criteria for TB-IRIS agreed in 13 paradoxical cases, giving positive agreement of 72.2%, negative agreement in 52/56 non-TB-IRIS events (92.9%), and kappa of 0.66. There were 19 unmasking TB-IRIS cases based on expert opinion, of which 12 were considered IRIS using the INSHI definition (positive agreement 63.2%). There was agreement in all 240 non-TB-IRIS events (negative agreement 100%) and kappa was 0.76. There was good agreement between the INSHI case definition for both paradoxical and unmasking TB-IRIS and consensus expert opinion. These results support the use of this definition in clinical and research practice, with minor caveats in its application.

Engineering a Light-Attenuating Artificial Iris

PubMed Central

Shareef, Farah J.; Sun, Shan; Kotecha, Mrignayani; Kassem, Iris; Azar, Dimitri; Cho, Michael

2016-01-01

Purpose Discomfort from light exposure leads to photophobia, glare, and poor vision in patients with congenital or trauma-induced iris damage. Commercial artificial iris lenses are static in nature to provide aesthetics without restoring the natural iris's dynamic response to light. A new photo-responsive artificial iris was therefore developed using a photochromic material with self-adaptive light transmission properties and encased in a transparent biocompatible polymer matrix. Methods The implantable artificial iris was designed and engineered using Photopia, a class of photo-responsive materials (termed naphthopyrans) embedded in polyethylene. Photopia was reshaped into annular disks that were spin-coated with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to form our artificial iris lens of controlled thickness. Results Activated by UV and blue light in approximately 5 seconds with complete reversal in less than 1 minute, the artificial iris demonstrates graded attenuation of up to 40% of visible and 60% of UV light. There optical characteristics are suitable to reversibly regulate the incident light intensity. In vitro cell culture experiments showed up to 60% cell death within 10 days of exposure to Photopia, but no significant cell death observed when cultured with the artificial iris with protective encapsulation. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy confirmed these results as there was no apparent leakage of potentially toxic photochromic material from the ophthalmic device. Conclusions Our artificial iris lens mimics the functionality of the natural iris by attenuating light intensity entering the eye with its rapid reversible change in opacity and thus potentially providing an improved treatment option for patients with iris damage. PMID:27116547

Engineering a Light-Attenuating Artificial Iris.

PubMed

Shareef, Farah J; Sun, Shan; Kotecha, Mrignayani; Kassem, Iris; Azar, Dimitri; Cho, Michael

2016-04-01

Discomfort from light exposure leads to photophobia, glare, and poor vision in patients with congenital or trauma-induced iris damage. Commercial artificial iris lenses are static in nature to provide aesthetics without restoring the natural iris's dynamic response to light. A new photo-responsive artificial iris was therefore developed using a photochromic material with self-adaptive light transmission properties and encased in a transparent biocompatible polymer matrix. The implantable artificial iris was designed and engineered using Photopia, a class of photo-responsive materials (termed naphthopyrans) embedded in polyethylene. Photopia was reshaped into annular disks that were spin-coated with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to form our artificial iris lens of controlled thickness. Activated by UV and blue light in approximately 5 seconds with complete reversal in less than 1 minute, the artificial iris demonstrates graded attenuation of up to 40% of visible and 60% of UV light. There optical characteristics are suitable to reversibly regulate the incident light intensity. In vitro cell culture experiments showed up to 60% cell death within 10 days of exposure to Photopia, but no significant cell death observed when cultured with the artificial iris with protective encapsulation. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy confirmed these results as there was no apparent leakage of potentially toxic photochromic material from the ophthalmic device. Our artificial iris lens mimics the functionality of the natural iris by attenuating light intensity entering the eye with its rapid reversible change in opacity and thus potentially providing an improved treatment option for patients with iris damage.

Iris ultrastructure in patients with synechiae as revealed by in vivo laser scanning confocal microscopy : In vivo iris ultrastructure in patients with Synechiae by Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopy.

PubMed

Li, Ming; Cheng, Hongbo; Guo, Ping; Zhang, Chun; Tang, Song; Wang, Shusheng

2016-04-26

Iris plays important roles in ocular physiology and disease pathogenesis. Currently it is technically challenging to noninvasively examine the human iris ultrastructure in vivo. The purpose of the current study is to reveal human iris ultrastructure in patients with synechiae by using noninvasive in vivo laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM). The ultrastructure of iris in thirty one patients, each with synechiae but transparent cornea, was examined by in vivo LSCM. Five characteristic iris ultrastructures was revealed in patients with synechiae by in vivo LSCM, which include: 1. tree trunk-like structure; 2. tree branch/bush-like structure; 3. Fruit-like structure; 4. Epithelioid-like structure; 5. deep structure. Pigment granules can be observed as a loose structure on the top of the arborization structure. In iris-associated diseases with Tyndall's Phenomenon and keratic precipitates, the pigment particles are more likely to fall off from the arborization structure. The ultrastructure of iris in patients with synechiae has been visualized using in vivo LSCM. Five iris ultrastructures can be clearly observed, with some of the structures maybe disease-associated. The fall-off of the pigment particles may cause the Tyndall's Phenomenon positive. In vivo LSCM provides a non-invasive approach to observe the human iris ultrastructure under certain eye disease conditions, which sets up a foundation to visualize certain iris-associated diseases in the future.

Preliminary Investigation of Cardiovascular-Renal Disorders in Dogs with Chronic Mitral Valve Disease.

PubMed

Martinelli, E; Locatelli, C; Bassis, S; Crosara, S; Paltrinieri, S; Scarpa, P; Spalla, I; Zanaboni, A M; Quintavalla, C; Brambilla, P

2016-09-01

Veterinary literature lacks data about cardiovascular-renal disorders (CvRD) and cardiorenal-anemia syndrome (CRAS) in dogs. A direct correlation exists between ACVIM class and IRIS stage; chronic kidney disease (CKD) complicates chronic mitral valve disease (CMVD) more often than does anemia in dogs. One hundred and fifty-eight client-owned dogs with CMVD. Signalment, physical examination findings, electrocardiography, thoracic radiographs, echocardiography, and blood analysis were retrospectively evaluated to assess the prevalence of CKD and anemia in dogs with CMVD and to investigate the relationships among ACVIM class, IRIS stage, and survival. The prevalence of CKD and anemia in dogs with CMVD was significantly higher than in the general population of dogs. Dogs being treated for heart failure had a significantly higher prevalence of CKD than did dogs that had not received treatment. A statistically significant direct correlation was found between ACVIM class and IRIS stage. Severe heart disease, severe renal disease or both, furosemide administration, and advanced age at diagnosis of heart disease were associated with shorter survival time. Survival time of dogs affected by CvRD was statistically shorter than survival time of dogs affected by CMVD alone. Chronic mitral valve disease is associated with increased prevalence of CKD and anemia in dogs. Treatment for medical management of heart failure may play a role in inducing CKD. Class of heart disease and IRIS stage were directly correlated. Cardiovascular-renal disorders decrease survival time compared to the only presence of CMVD alone, whereas anemia does not play a central role in worsening heart function. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

Melatonin protects cardiac microvasculature against ischemia/reperfusion injury via suppression of mitochondrial fission-VDAC1-HK2-mPTP-mitophagy axis.

PubMed

Zhou, Hao; Zhang, Ying; Hu, Shunying; Shi, Chen; Zhu, Pingjun; Ma, Qiang; Jin, Qinhua; Cao, Feng; Tian, Feng; Chen, Yundai

2017-08-01

The cardiac microvascular system, which is primarily composed of monolayer endothelial cells, is the site of blood supply and nutrient exchange to cardiomyocytes. However, microvascular ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) following percutaneous coronary intervention is a woefully neglected topic, and few strategies are available to reverse such pathologies. Here, we studied the effects of melatonin on microcirculation IRI and elucidated the underlying mechanism. Melatonin markedly reduced infarcted area, improved cardiac function, restored blood flow, and lower microcirculation perfusion defects. Histological analysis showed that cardiac microcirculation endothelial cells (CMEC) in melatonin-treated mice had an unbroken endothelial barrier, increased endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression, unobstructed lumen, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, and less endothelial damage. In contrast, AMP-activated protein kinase α (AMPKα) deficiency abolished the beneficial effects of melatonin on microvasculature. In vitro, IRI activated dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1)-dependent mitochondrial fission, which subsequently induced voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1) oligomerization, hexokinase 2 (HK2) liberation, mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening, PINK1/Parkin upregulation, and ultimately mitophagy-mediated CMEC death. However, melatonin strengthened CMEC survival via activation of AMPKα, followed by p-Drp1 S616 downregulation and p-Drp1 S37 upregulation, which blunted Drp1-dependent mitochondrial fission. Suppression of mitochondrial fission by melatonin recovered VDAC1-HK2 interaction that prevented mPTP opening and PINK1/Parkin activation, eventually blocking mitophagy-mediated cellular death. In summary, this study confirmed that melatonin protects cardiac microvasculature against IRI. The underlying mechanism may be attributed to the inhibitory effects of melatonin on mitochondrial fission-VDAC1-HK2-mPTP-mitophagy axis via activation of AMPKα. © 2017 The Authors. Journal of Pineal Research Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Timing of xenon-induced delayed postconditioning to protect against spinal cord ischaemia-reperfusion injury in rats.

PubMed

Yang, Y W; Cheng, W P; Lu, J K; Dong, X H; Wang, C B; Zhang, J; Zhao, L Y; Gao, Z F

2014-07-01

This study was designed to assess the neuroprotective effect of xenon-induced delayed postconditioning on spinal cord ischaemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) and to determine the time of administration for best neuroprotection in a rat model of spinal cord IRI. Fifty male rats were randomly divided equally into a sham group, control group, and three xenon postconditioning groups (n=10 per group). The control group underwent spinal cord IRI and immediately inhaled 50% nitrogen/50% oxygen for 3 h at the initiation of reperfusion. The three xenon postconditioning groups underwent the same surgical procedure and immediately inhaled 50% xenon/50% oxygen for 3 h at the initiation of reperfusion or 1 and 2 h after reperfusion. The sham operation group underwent the same surgical procedure without aortic occlusion, and inhaled 50% nitrogen/50% oxygen. Neurological function was assessed using the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan score at 4, 24, and 48 h of reperfusion. Histological examination was performed using Nissl staining and immunohistochemistry, and apoptosis was detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end-labelling staining. Compared with the control group, the three xenon postconditioning groups showed improvements in neurological outcomes, and had more morphologically normal neurones at 48 h of reperfusion. Apoptotic cell death was reduced and the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax immunoreactivity increased in xenon-treated rats compared with controls. Xenon postconditioning up to 2 h after reperfusion provided protection against spinal cord IRI in rats, but the greatest neuroprotection occurred with administration of xenon for 1 h at reperfusion. © The Author [2013]. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Journal of Anaesthesia. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Video-based noncooperative iris image segmentation.

PubMed

Du, Yingzi; Arslanturk, Emrah; Zhou, Zhi; Belcher, Craig

2011-02-01

In this paper, we propose a video-based noncooperative iris image segmentation scheme that incorporates a quality filter to quickly eliminate images without an eye, employs a coarse-to-fine segmentation scheme to improve the overall efficiency, uses a direct least squares fitting of ellipses method to model the deformed pupil and limbic boundaries, and develops a window gradient-based method to remove noise in the iris region. A remote iris acquisition system is set up to collect noncooperative iris video images. An objective method is used to quantitatively evaluate the accuracy of the segmentation results. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of this method. The proposed method would make noncooperative iris recognition or iris surveillance possible.

Iris Recognition: The Consequences of Image Compression

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ives, Robert W.; Bishop, Daniel A.; Du, Yingzi; Belcher, Craig

2010-12-01

Iris recognition for human identification is one of the most accurate biometrics, and its employment is expanding globally. The use of portable iris systems, particularly in law enforcement applications, is growing. In many of these applications, the portable device may be required to transmit an iris image or template over a narrow-bandwidth communication channel. Typically, a full resolution image (e.g., VGA) is desired to ensure sufficient pixels across the iris to be confident of accurate recognition results. To minimize the time to transmit a large amount of data over a narrow-bandwidth communication channel, image compression can be used to reduce the file size of the iris image. In other applications, such as the Registered Traveler program, an entire iris image is stored on a smart card, but only 4 kB is allowed for the iris image. For this type of application, image compression is also the solution. This paper investigates the effects of image compression on recognition system performance using a commercial version of the Daugman iris2pi algorithm along with JPEG-2000 compression, and links these to image quality. Using the ICE 2005 iris database, we find that even in the face of significant compression, recognition performance is minimally affected.

An iris recognition algorithm based on DCT and GLCM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, G.; Wu, Ye-qing

2008-04-01

With the enlargement of mankind's activity range, the significance for person's status identity is becoming more and more important. So many different techniques for person's status identity were proposed for this practical usage. Conventional person's status identity methods like password and identification card are not always reliable. A wide variety of biometrics has been developed for this challenge. Among those biologic characteristics, iris pattern gains increasing attention for its stability, reliability, uniqueness, noninvasiveness and difficult to counterfeit. The distinct merits of the iris lead to its high reliability for personal identification. So the iris identification technique had become hot research point in the past several years. This paper presents an efficient algorithm for iris recognition using gray-level co-occurrence matrix(GLCM) and Discrete Cosine transform(DCT). To obtain more representative iris features, features from space and DCT transformation domain are extracted. Both GLCM and DCT are applied on the iris image to form the feature sequence in this paper. The combination of GLCM and DCT makes the iris feature more distinct. Upon GLCM and DCT the eigenvector of iris extracted, which reflects features of spatial transformation and frequency transformation. Experimental results show that the algorithm is effective and feasible with iris recognition.

A novel in vivo model of puncture-induced iris neovascularization.

PubMed

Beaujean, Ophélie; Locri, Filippo; Aronsson, Monica; Kvanta, Anders; André, Helder

2017-01-01

To assess iris neovascularization by uveal puncture of the mouse eye and determine the role of angiogenic factors during iris neovascularization. Uveal punctures were performed on BalbC mouse eyes to induce iris angiogenesis. VEGF-blockage was used as an anti-angiogenic treatment, while normoxia- and hypoxia-conditioned media from retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells was used as an angiogenic-inducer in this model. Iris vasculature was determined in vivo by noninvasive methods. Iris blood vessels were stained for platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 and vascular sprouts were counted as markers of angiogenesis. Expression of angiogenic and inflammatory factors in the puncture-induced model were determined by qPCR and western blot. Punctures led to increased neovascularization and sprouting of the iris. qPCR and protein analysis showed an increase of angiogenic factors, particularly in the plasminogen-activating receptor and inflammatory systems. VEGF-blockage partly reduced iris neovascularization, and treatment with hypoxia-conditioned RPE medium led to a statistically significant increase in iris neovascularization. This study presents the first evidence of a puncture-induced iris angiogenesis model in the mouse. In a broader context, this novel in vivo model of neovascularization has the potential for noninvasive evaluation of angiogenesis modulating substances.

Iris recognition in the presence of ocular disease

PubMed Central

Aslam, Tariq Mehmood; Tan, Shi Zhuan; Dhillon, Baljean

2009-01-01

Iris recognition systems are among the most accurate of all biometric technologies with immense potential for use in worldwide security applications. This study examined the effect of eye pathology on iris recognition and in particular whether eye disease could cause iris recognition systems to fail. The experiment involved a prospective cohort of 54 patients with anterior segment eye disease who were seen at the acute referral unit of the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion in Edinburgh. Iris camera images were obtained from patients before treatment was commenced and again at follow-up appointments after treatment had been given. The principal outcome measure was that of mathematical difference in the iris recognition templates obtained from patients' eyes before and after treatment of the eye disease. Results showed that the performance of iris recognition was remarkably resilient to most ophthalmic disease states, including corneal oedema, iridotomies (laser puncture of iris) and conjunctivitis. Problems were, however, encountered in some patients with acute inflammation of the iris (iritis/anterior uveitis). The effects of a subject developing anterior uveitis may cause current recognition systems to fail. Those developing and deploying iris recognition should be aware of the potential problems that this could cause to this key biometric technology. PMID:19324690

Iris recognition in the presence of ocular disease.

PubMed

Aslam, Tariq Mehmood; Tan, Shi Zhuan; Dhillon, Baljean

2009-05-06

Iris recognition systems are among the most accurate of all biometric technologies with immense potential for use in worldwide security applications. This study examined the effect of eye pathology on iris recognition and in particular whether eye disease could cause iris recognition systems to fail. The experiment involved a prospective cohort of 54 patients with anterior segment eye disease who were seen at the acute referral unit of the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion in Edinburgh. Iris camera images were obtained from patients before treatment was commenced and again at follow-up appointments after treatment had been given. The principal outcome measure was that of mathematical difference in the iris recognition templates obtained from patients' eyes before and after treatment of the eye disease. Results showed that the performance of iris recognition was remarkably resilient to most ophthalmic disease states, including corneal oedema, iridotomies (laser puncture of iris) and conjunctivitis. Problems were, however, encountered in some patients with acute inflammation of the iris (iritis/anterior uveitis). The effects of a subject developing anterior uveitis may cause current recognition systems to fail. Those developing and deploying iris recognition should be aware of the potential problems that this could cause to this key biometric technology.

Tuberculosis immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome in A5221 STRIDE: timing, severity, and implications for HIV-TB programs.

PubMed

Luetkemeyer, Anne F; Kendall, Michelle A; Nyirenda, Mulinda; Wu, Xingye; Ive, Prudence; Benson, Constance A; Andersen, Janet W; Swindells, Susan; Sanne, Ian M; Havlir, Diane V; Kumwenda, Johnstone

2014-04-01

Earlier initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in HIV-tuberculosis (TB) is associated with increased immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). The severity, frequency, and complications of TB IRIS were evaluated in A5221, a randomized trial of earlier ART (within 2 weeks after TB treatment initiation) vs. later ART (8-12 weeks after TB treatment) in HIV-infected patients starting TB treatment. In 806 participants, TB IRIS was defined using published clinical criteria. Cases were classified as severe (hospitalization/death), moderate (corticosteroid use/invasive procedure), or mild (no hospitalization/procedures/steroids). Fisher exact, Wilcoxon, and log-rank tests were used for comparisons. TB IRIS occurred in 61 (7.6%) patients: 10.4% in earlier vs. 4.7% in later ART, 11.5% with CD4 <50 vs. 5.4% with CD4 ≥50 cells per cubic millimeter. The CD4/ART arm interaction was significant, P = 0.014, with 44.3% of TB IRIS occurring with CD4 <50 and earlier ART. TB IRIS occurred sooner with earlier vs. later ART initiation, at a median of 29 vs. 82 days after TB treatment initiation (P < 0.001). IRIS manifestations included lymphadenopathy (59.0%), constitutional symptoms (54.1%), and radiographic changes (41.0%); central nervous system TB IRIS was uncommon (6.6%). TB IRIS was mild in 27.9%, moderate in 41.0%, and severe in 31.1%. No TB IRIS-associated deaths occurred. IRIS management required ≥1 invasive procedures in 34.4%, hospitalization in 31.1%, and corticosteroids in 54.1%. TB IRIS was more frequent with earlier ART initiation and CD4 <50 cells per cubic millimeter. As ART is implemented earlier in HIV-TB coinfection, programs will require the diagnostic capabilities, clinical resources, and training necessary to manage TB IRIS.

Quantitative study of the microvasculature and its endothelial cells in the porcine iris.

PubMed

Yang, Hongfang; Yu, Paula K; Cringle, Stephen J; Sun, Xinghuai; Yu, Dao-Yi

2015-03-01

The roles of the iris microvasculature have been increasingly recognised in the pathogenesis of glaucoma and cataract; however limited information exists regarding the iris microvasculature and its endothelium. This study quantitatively assessed the iris microvascular network and its endothelium using intra-luminal micro-perfusion, fixation, and staining of the porcine iris. The temporal long posterior ciliary artery of 11 isolated porcine eyes was cannulated, perfusion-fixed and labelled using silver nitrate. The iris microvasculature was studied for its distribution, orders and endothelial morphometrics. The density of three layers of microvasculature was measured. Endothelial cell length and width were measured for each vessel order. The iris has an unusual vascular distribution which consisted of abundant large vessels in the middle of the iris stroma, branching over a relatively short distance to the microvasculature located in the superficial and deep stroma as well as the pupil edge. The average vascular density of the middle, superficial, and deep layers were 38.9 ± 1.93%, 10.9 ± 1.61% and 8.0 ± 0.79% respectively. Multiple orders of iris vessels (capillary, 6 orders of arteries, and 4 orders of veins) with relatively large capillary and input arteries (319.5 ± 25.6 μm) were found. Significant heterogeneity of vascular diameter and shape of the endothelia was revealed in different orders of the iris vasculature. Detailed information of topography and endothelium of the iris microvasculature combined with unique structural features of the iris may help us to further understand the physiological and pathogenic roles of the iris in relevant ocular diseases. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Lower Pre-Treatment T Cell Activation in Early- and Late-Onset Tuberculosis-Associated Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome

PubMed Central

Goovaerts, Odin; Jennes, Wim; Massinga-Loembé, Marguerite; Ondoa, Pascale; Ceulemans, Ann; Vereecken, Chris; Worodria, William; Mayanja-Kizza, Harriet; Colebunders, Robert; Kestens, Luc

2015-01-01

Background Tuberculosis-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (TB-IRIS) is an inflammatory complication in HIV-TB co-infected patients receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). The role of disturbed T cell reconstitution in TB-IRIS is not well understood. We investigated T cell activation and maturation profiles in patients who developed TB-IRIS at different intervals during ART. Methods Twenty-two HIV-TB patients who developed early-onset TB-IRIS and 10 who developed late-onset TB-IRIS were matched for age, sex and CD4 count to equal numbers of HIV-TB patients who did not develop TB-IRIS. Flow cytometry analysis was performed on fresh blood, drawn before and after ART initiation and during TB-IRIS events. T cell activation and maturation was measured on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells using CD45RO, CD38, HLA-DR, CCR7 and CD27 antibodies. Results CD8+ T cell activation before ART was decreased in both early-onset (77% vs. 82%, p = 0.014) and late-onset (71% vs. 83%, p = 0.012) TB-IRIS patients compared to non-IRIS controls. After ART initiation, the observed differences in T cell activation disappeared. During late-onset, but not early-onset TB-IRIS, we observed a skewing from memory to terminal effector CD4+ and CD8+ T cell populations (p≤0.028). Conclusion Our data provide evidence of reduced CD8+ T cell activation before ART as a common predisposing factor of early- and late-onset TB-IRIS. The occurrence of TB-IRIS itself was not marked by an over-activated CD8+ T cell compartment. Late- but not early-onset TB-IRIS was characterized by a more terminally differentiated T cell phenotype. PMID:26208109

Iris recognition and what is next? Iris diagnosis: a new challenging topic for machine vision from image acquisition to image interpretation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perner, Petra

2017-03-01

Molecular image-based techniques are widely used in medicine to detect specific diseases. Look diagnosis is an important issue but also the analysis of the eye plays an important role in order to detect specific diseases. These topics are important topics in medicine and the standardization of these topics by an automatic system can be a new challenging field for machine vision. Compared to iris recognition has the iris diagnosis much more higher demands for the image acquisition and interpretation of the iris. One understands by iris diagnosis (Iridology) the investigation and analysis of the colored part of the eye, the iris, to discover factors, which play an important role for the prevention and treatment of illnesses, but also for the preservation of an optimum health. An automatic system would pave the way for a much wider use of the iris diagnosis for the diagnosis of illnesses and for the purpose of individual health protection. With this paper, we describe our work towards an automatic iris diagnosis system. We describe the image acquisition and the problems with it. Different ways are explained for image acquisition and image preprocessing. We describe the image analysis method for the detection of the iris. The meta-model for image interpretation is given. Based on this model we show the many tasks for image analysis that range from different image-object feature analysis, spatial image analysis to color image analysis. Our first results for the recognition of the iris are given. We describe how detecting the pupil and not wanted lamp spots. We explain how to recognize orange blue spots in the iris and match them against the topological map of the iris. Finally, we give an outlook for further work.

Highly sensitive and multiplexed platforms for allergy diagnostics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Monroe, Margo R.

Allergy is a disorder of the immune system caused by an immune response to otherwise harmless environmental allergens. Currently 20% of the US population is allergic and 90% of pediatric patients and 60% of adult patients with asthma have allergies. These percentages have increased by 18.5% in the past decade, with predicted similar trends for the future. Here we design sensitive, multiplexed platforms to detect allergen-specific IgE using the Interferometric Reflectance Imaging Sensor (IRIS) for various clinical settings. A microarray platform for allergy diagnosis allows for testing of specific IgE sensitivity to a multitude of allergens, while requiring only small volumes of patient blood sample. However, conventional fluorescent microarray technology is limited by i) the variation of probe immobilization, which hinders the ability to make quantitative, assertive, and statistically relevant conclusions necessary in immunodiagnostics and ii) the use of fluorophore labels, which is not suitable for some clinical applications due to the tendency of fluorophores to stick to blood particulates and require daily calibration methods. This calibrated fluorescence enhancement (CaFE) method integrates the low magnification modality of IRIS with enhanced fluorescence sensing in order to directly correlate immobilized probe (major allergens) density to allergen-specific IgE in patient serum. However, this platform only operates in processed serum samples, which is not ideal for point of care testing. Thus, a high magnification modality of IRIS was adapted as an alternative allergy diagnostic platform to automatically discriminate and size single nanoparticles bound to specific IgE in unprocessed, characterized human blood and serum samples. These features make IRIS an ideal candidate for clinical and diagnostic applications, such a POC testing. The high magnification (nanoparticle counting) modality in conjunction with low magnification of IRIS in a combined instrument offers four significant advantages compared to existing sensing technologies: IRIS i) corrects for any variation in probe immobilization, ii) detects proteins from attomolar to nanomolar concentrations in unprocessed biological samples, iii) unambiguously discriminates nanoparticles tags on a robust and physically large sensor area, iv) detects protein targets with conjugated nanoparticle tags (~40nm diameter), which minimally affect assay kinetics compared to conventional microparticle tagging methods, and v) utilizes components that make the instrument inexpensive, robust, and portable. This platform was successfully validated on patient serum and whole blood samples with documented allergy profiles (ImmunoCAPRTM, ThermoFisher Scientific).

The iris – a window into the genetics of common and rare eye diseases

PubMed Central

Morrison, Patrick J

2010-01-01

Visual examination, without instruments, of the eye allows inspection of the iris, sclera, cornea and, through the iris, some abnormalities of the lens and retina. Several hereditary disorders can easily be recognised by characteristic iris changes. This review discusses changes in the iris, visible lens anomalies, and changes in the cornea surrounding the iris. A genetic diagnosis can help with management of diseases. Some conditions are single gene disorders, some are chromosomal rearrangements, and some are abnormalities of fetal development. PMID:20844723

Iris Freckles a Potential Biomarker for Chronic Sun Damage.

PubMed

Schwab, Christoph; Mayer, Christoph; Zalaudek, Iris; Riedl, Regina; Richtig, Markus; Wackernagel, Werner; Hofmann-Wellenhof, Rainer; Richtig, Georg; Langmann, Gerald; Tarmann, Lisa; Wedrich, Andreas; Richtig, Erika

2017-05-01

To investigate the role of sunlight exposure in iris freckles formation. We prospectively examined volunteers attending a skin cancer screening program conducted by ophthalmologists and dermatologists. Frequency and topographical variability of iris freckles were noted and associated with behavioral and dermatologic characteristics indicating high sun exposure. Six hundred thirty-two participants (n = 360; 57% female) were examined. Mean age of all participants was 38.4 ± 18.4 years (range, 4-84 years). Of all individuals, 76.1% (n = 481) exhibited at least one iris freckle. Most freckles were observed in the inferior temporal quadrant. The presence of iris freckles was associated with higher age (participants with iris freckles: 41.8 ± 16.8 years versus participants without iris freckles: 27.6 ± 19.2 years), a high number of sunburns during lifetime (>10: 31% vs. 19%), sunlight-damaged skin (26% vs. 11%), presence of actinic lentigines (72% vs. 45%), and a high total nevus body count (>10; 78% vs. 67%). The association of iris freckles, behavioral factors, and dermatologic findings, as well as the topographical distribution, indicate that sunlight exposure may trigger the formation of iris freckles. The evaluation of iris freckles offers an easily accessible potential biomarker, which might be helpful in indicating sun damage on the skin associated with cutaneous malignancies. Furthermore, the evaluation of iris freckles could also be helpful in understanding the role of sunlight in several ophthalmologic diseases.

Morphological Alterations Within the Peripheral Fixation of the Iris Dilator Muscle in Eyes With Pigmentary Glaucoma

PubMed Central

Flügel-Koch, Cassandra M.; Tektas, Ozan Y.; Kaufman, Paul L.; Paulsen, Friedrich P.; Lütjen-Drecoll, Elke

2014-01-01

Purpose. To analyze the peripheral fixation of the iris dilator muscle in normal eyes and in eyes with pigmentary glaucoma (PG). Methods. Using 63 control eyes (age 18 months–99 years), the peripheral iris dilator was investigated by light microscopy, immunohistochemistry, and electron microscopy. Development was studied using 18 differently aged fetal eyes stained immunohistochemically against α-smooth muscle (SM) actin. The peripheral iris dilator muscle in PG was analyzed using semithin and ultrathin sections of six glutaraldehyde-fixed eyes from three donors aged 38, 62, and 74 years. Results. In normal eyes, the peripheral end of the iris dilator muscle is arranged in a sphincter-like manner. Arcade-shaped tendinous connections associated with myofibroblasts (iridial strands) anchor the iris dilator within the elastic–fibromuscular ciliary meshwork that also serves as fixation area for the elastic tendons of the inner ciliary muscle portions. The iridial strands are innervated and can adapt their length during accommodation. The PG eyes show incomplete circular bundles and iridial strands that are mainly anchored to the iris stroma and the flexible uveal parts of the trabecular meshwork. Conclusions. The normal anchorage of the peripheral iris dilator and its presumably neuronally regulated length adaptation stabilize the peripheral iris during accommodation. Insufficient fixation in PG could promote posterior bowing of the iris with rubbing against the zonular fibers and pigment liberation from the iris pigmented epithelium. PMID:24938519

Ordinal feature selection for iris and palmprint recognition.

PubMed

Sun, Zhenan; Wang, Libin; Tan, Tieniu

2014-09-01

Ordinal measures have been demonstrated as an effective feature representation model for iris and palmprint recognition. However, ordinal measures are a general concept of image analysis and numerous variants with different parameter settings, such as location, scale, orientation, and so on, can be derived to construct a huge feature space. This paper proposes a novel optimization formulation for ordinal feature selection with successful applications to both iris and palmprint recognition. The objective function of the proposed feature selection method has two parts, i.e., misclassification error of intra and interclass matching samples and weighted sparsity of ordinal feature descriptors. Therefore, the feature selection aims to achieve an accurate and sparse representation of ordinal measures. And, the optimization subjects to a number of linear inequality constraints, which require that all intra and interclass matching pairs are well separated with a large margin. Ordinal feature selection is formulated as a linear programming (LP) problem so that a solution can be efficiently obtained even on a large-scale feature pool and training database. Extensive experimental results demonstrate that the proposed LP formulation is advantageous over existing feature selection methods, such as mRMR, ReliefF, Boosting, and Lasso for biometric recognition, reporting state-of-the-art accuracy on CASIA and PolyU databases.

The voices of Iris: Cinematic representations of the aged woman and Alzheimer's disease in Iris (2001).

PubMed

Graham, Megan E

2016-09-01

Audiences must be critical of film representations of the aged woman living with Alzheimer's disease and of dangerous reinscriptions of stereotypical equations about ageing as deterioration. This paper analyses the representation and decline of the aged woman through the different voices of Iris Murdoch in Richard Eyre's film Iris (2001). Key vocal scenes are considered: On-screen encounters between young and aged Iris, vocal representations of dementia symptoms and silencing Iris as her disease progresses. Further, Iris' recurrent unaccompanied song, "The Lark in the Clear Air," compels audiences to "see" Iris with their ears more than with their eyes, exemplifying the representational power of sound in film. This paper is an appeal for increased debate about sonic representations of aged women, ageing and Alzheimer's disease and dementia in film. The significance of audiences' critical awareness and understanding about the social implications of these representations is discussed. © The Author(s) 2014.

Iris Segmentation and Normalization Algorithm Based on Zigzag Collarette

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rizky Faundra, M.; Ratna Sulistyaningrum, Dwi

2017-01-01

In this paper, we proposed iris segmentation and normalization algorithm based on the zigzag collarette. First of all, iris images are processed by using Canny Edge Detection to detect pupil edge, then finding the center and the radius of the pupil with the Hough Transform Circle. Next, isolate important part in iris based zigzag collarette area. Finally, Daugman Rubber Sheet Model applied to get the fixed dimensions or normalization iris by transforming cartesian into polar format and thresholding technique to remove eyelid and eyelash. This experiment will be conducted with a grayscale eye image data taken from a database of iris-Chinese Academy of Sciences Institute of Automation (CASIA). Data iris taken is the data reliable and widely used to study the iris biometrics. The result show that specific threshold level is 0.3 have better accuracy than other, so the present algorithm can be used to segmentation and normalization zigzag collarette with accuracy is 98.88%

Iris metastasis of gastric adenocarcinoma.

PubMed

Celebi, Ali Riza Cenk; Kilavuzoglu, Ayse Ebru; Altiparmak, U Emrah; Cosar, C Banu; Ozkiris, Abdullah

2016-03-08

Iris metastasis in patients with gastric cancer is extremely rare. Herein, it is aimed to report on a patient with gastric adenocarcinoma and iris metastasis. A 65-year-old patient with the history of gastric cancer was admitted for eye pain and eye redness on his left eye. There was ciliary injection, severe +4 cells with hypopyon in the anterior chamber and a solitary, friable, yellow-white, fleshy-creamy vascularized 2 mm × 4 mm mass on the upper nasal part of the iris within the left eye. The presented patient's mass lesion in the iris fulfilled the criteria of the metastatic iris lesion's appearance. The ocular metastasis occurred during chemotherapy. Iris metastasis can masquerade as iridocyclitis with pseudohypopyon or glaucoma. In patients with a history of gastric cancer that present with an iris mass, uveitis, and high intraocular pressure, ocular metastasis of gastric cancer should be a consideration.

First-Year Students' Priorities and Choices in STEM Studies--IRIS Findings from Germany and Austria

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Elster, D.

2014-01-01

IRIS (Interests and Recruitment in Science; http://iris.fp-7.org/about-iris/) is a European 7th framework project focusing on the challenge that only few young people in general, and women in particular, choose an education and career in science and technology. Project IRIS aims to contribute to the improvement of recruitment, retention and gender…

Comparison of GPS derived TEC with the TEC predicted by IRI 2012 model in the southern Equatorial Ionization Anomaly crest within the Eastern Africa region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sulungu, Emmanuel D.; Uiso, Christian B. S.; Sibanda, Patrick

2018-04-01

We have compared the TEC obtained from the IRI-2012 model with the GPS derived TEC data recorded within southern crest of the EIA in the Eastern Africa region using the monthly means of the 5 international quiet days for equinoxes and solstices months for the period of 2012 - 2013. GPS-derived TEC data have been obtained from the Africa array and IGS network of ground based dual-frequency GPS receivers from four stations (Kigali (1.95°S, 30.09°E; Geom. Lat. 11.63°S), Malindi (2.99°S, 40.19°E; Geom. Lat. 12.42°S), Mbarara (0.60°S, 30.74°E; Geom. Lat. 10.22°S) and Nairobi (1.22°S, 36.89°E; Geom. Lat. 10.69°S)) located within the EIA crest in this region. All the three options for topside Ne of IRI-2012 model and ABT-2009 for bottomside thickness have been used to compute the IRI TEC. Also URSI coefficients were considered in this study. These results are compared with the TEC estimated from GPS measurements. Correlation Coefficients between the two sets of data, the Root-Mean Square Errors (RMSE) of the IRI-TEC from the GPS-TEC, and the percentage RMSE of the IRI-TEC from the GPS-TEC have been computed. Our general results show that IRI-2012 model with all three options overestimates the GPS-TEC for all seasons and at all stations, and IRI-2001 overestimates GPS-TEC more compared with other options. IRI-Neq and IRI-01-corr are closely matching in most of the time. The observation also shows that, GPS TEC are underestimated by TEC from IRI model during noon hours, especially during equinoctial months. Further, GPS-TEC values and IRI-TEC values using all the three topside Ne options show very good correlation (above 0.8). On the other hand, the TEC using IRI-Neq and IRI-01- corr had smaller deviations from the GPS-TEC compared to the IRI-2001.

Pollinators shift to nectar robbers when florivory occurs, with effects on reproductive success in Iris bulleyana (Iridaceae).

PubMed

Ye, Z-M; Jin, X-F; Wang, Q-F; Yang, C-F; Inouye, D W

2017-09-01

Studies have indicated that florivory and nectar robbing may reduce reproductive success of host plants. However, whether and how these effects might interact when plants are simultaneously attacked by both florivores and nectar robbers still needs further investigation. We used Iris bulleyana to detect the interactions among florivory, nectar robbing and pollination, and moreover, their effects on plant reproductive success. Field investigations and hand-pollination treatments were conducted on two experimental plots from a natural population, in which Experimental plot was protected from florivores and Control plot was not manipulated. The flower calyx was bitten by sawflies to consume the nectary, and three bumblebee species were pollinators. In addition, the short-tongued pollinator, Bombus friseanus, was the only robber when there was a hole made by a sawfly. The bumblebee had significantly shortened flower handling time when robbing, as compared to legitimate visits. Pollinator visitation and seed production decreased significantly in damaged flowers. However, seed production per flower after supplementary hand-pollination did not differ significantly between damaged and undamaged flowers. Compared to the Experimental plot, bumblebees visited fewer flowers per plant in a foraging bout in the Control plot. The flowers damaged by florivory allowed B. friseanus to shift to a nectar robber. Florivory and nectar robbing collectively decreased plant reproductive success by consuming nectar resources, which may reduce attractiveness to pollinators of the damaged flowers. However, the changes in pollinator behaviour might be beneficial to the plant by reducing the risk of geitonogamous mating. © 2017 German Botanical Society and The Royal Botanical Society of the Netherlands.

PLATEAU IRIS--DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT.

PubMed

Stefan, Cornel; Iliescu, Daniela Adriana; Batras, Mehdi; Timaru, Cristina Mihaela; De Simone, Algerino

2015-01-01

The objective of our study was to review the current knowledge on the diagnosis and treatment options of plateau iris configuration and syndrome. Relevant publications on plateau iris that were published until 2014. Plateau iris syndrome is a form of primary angle closure glaucoma caused by a large or anteriorly positioned ciliary body that leads to mechanical obstruction of trabecular meshwork. This condition is most often found in younger patients. Plateau iris has been considered an abnormal anatomic variant of the iris that can be diagnosed on ultrasound biomicroscopy or optical coherence tomography of anterior segment. Patients with plateau iris syndrome can be recognized by the lack of response in angle opening after iridotomy. The treatment of choice in these cases is argon laser peripheral iridoplasty.

Technical issues for the eye image database creation at distance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oropesa Morales, Lester Arturo; Maldonado Cano, Luis Alejandro; Soto Aldaco, Andrea; García Vázquez, Mireya Saraí; Zamudio Fuentes, Luis Miguel; Rodríguez Vázquez, Manuel Antonio; Pérez Rosas, Osvaldo Gerardo; Rodríguez Espejo, Luis; Montoya Obeso, Abraham; Ramírez Acosta, Alejandro Álvaro

2016-09-01

Biometrics refers to identify people through their physical characteristics or behavior such as fingerprints, face, DNA, hand geometries, retina and iris patterns. Typically, the iris pattern is to acquire in short distance to recognize a person, however, in the past few years is a challenge identify a person by its iris pattern at certain distance in non-cooperative environments. This challenge comprises: 1) high quality iris image, 2) light variation, 3) blur reduction, 4) specular reflections reduction, 5) the distance from the acquisition system to the user, and 6) standardize the iris size and the density pixel of iris texture. The solution of the challenge will add robustness and enhance the iris recognition rates. For this reason, we describe the technical issues that must be considered during iris acquisition. Some of these considerations are the camera sensor, lens, the math analysis of depth of field (DOF) and field of view (FOV) for iris recognition. Finally, based on this issues we present experiment that show the result of captures obtained with our camera at distance and captures obtained with cameras in very short distance.

[Implantation of an Artificial Iris in 11 Patients].

PubMed

Kniestedt, C; Eberhard, R; Fleischhauer, J

2016-04-01

Background. Iris defects are mostly acquired after injury, or may be iatrogenic after surgical excision of iris tumours or the result of collateral trauma after anterior segment surgery. They cause severe visual disability, e.g. glare, loss of contrast sensitivity, and loss of best corrected visual acuity. The foldable Koch iris prosthesis has a customised iris design and may be used to reconstruct the anterior segment in patients with partial or complete aniridia. History and Signs. We present the surgical management and clinical course of 6 patients with traumatic iris defects, together with 3 patients with partial aniridia after cataract surgery. Cataract surgery and implantation of an artificial iris were performed in 2 female patients (3 eyes) with congenital aniridia syndrome. Therapy and Outcome. No patient exhibited complications in the postoperative course, with the exception of various intraocular pressure peaks due to secondary glaucoma, that were all corrected by medication to lower topical pressure. Conclusions. In patients with major iris defects, the artificial iris allows functionally and aesthetically satisfactory reconstruction of the anterior segment. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Feature Vector Construction Method for IRIS Recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Odinokikh, G.; Fartukov, A.; Korobkin, M.; Yoo, J.

2017-05-01

One of the basic stages of iris recognition pipeline is iris feature vector construction procedure. The procedure represents the extraction of iris texture information relevant to its subsequent comparison. Thorough investigation of feature vectors obtained from iris showed that not all the vector elements are equally relevant. There are two characteristics which determine the vector element utility: fragility and discriminability. Conventional iris feature extraction methods consider the concept of fragility as the feature vector instability without respect to the nature of such instability appearance. This work separates sources of the instability into natural and encodinginduced which helps deeply investigate each source of instability independently. According to the separation concept, a novel approach of iris feature vector construction is proposed. The approach consists of two steps: iris feature extraction using Gabor filtering with optimal parameters and quantization with separated preliminary optimized fragility thresholds. The proposed method has been tested on two different datasets of iris images captured under changing environmental conditions. The testing results show that the proposed method surpasses all the methods considered as a prior art by recognition accuracy on both datasets.

Multi-Patches IRIS Based Person Authentication System Using Particle Swarm Optimization and Fuzzy C-Means Clustering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shekar, B. H.; Bhat, S. S.

2017-05-01

Locating the boundary parameters of pupil and iris and segmenting the noise free iris portion are the most challenging phases of an automated iris recognition system. In this paper, we have presented person authentication frame work which uses particle swarm optimization (PSO) to locate iris region and circular hough transform (CHT) to device the boundary parameters. To undermine the effect of the noise presented in the segmented iris region we have divided the candidate region into N patches and used Fuzzy c-means clustering (FCM) to classify the patches into best iris region and not so best iris region (noisy region) based on the probability density function of each patch. Weighted mean Hammimng distance is adopted to find the dissimilarity score between the two candidate irises. We have used Log-Gabor, Riesz and Taylor's series expansion (TSE) filters and combinations of these three for iris feature extraction. To justify the feasibility of the proposed method, we experimented on the three publicly available data sets IITD, MMU v-2 and CASIA v-4 distance.

Micropropagation of Iris sp.

PubMed

Jevremović, Slađana; Jeknić, Zoran; Subotić, Angelina

2013-01-01

Irises are perennial plants widely used as ornamental garden plants or cut flowers. Some species accumulate secondary metabolites, making them highly valuable to the pharmaceutical and perfume industries. Micropropagation of irises has successfully been accomplished by culturing zygotic embryos, different flower parts, and leaf base tissues as starting explants. Plantlets are regenerated via somatic embryogenesis, organogenesis, or both processes at the same time depending on media composition and plant species. A large number of uniform plants are produced by somatic embryogenesis, however, some species have decreased morphogenetic potential overtime. Shoot cultures obtained by organogenesis can be multiplied for many years. Somatic embryogenic tissue can be reestablished from leaf bases of in vitro-grown shoots. The highest number of plants can be obtained by cell suspension cultures. This chapter describes effective in vitro plant regeneration protocols for Iris species from different types of explants by somatic embryogenesis and/or organogenesis suitable for the mass propagation of ornamental and pharmaceutical irises.

Waardenburg syndrome: A rare genetic disorder, a report of two cases.

PubMed

Kumar, Sudesh; Rao, Kiran

2012-05-01

Waardenburg syndrome (WS) is a rare genetic disorder. Patients have heterochromia or eyes with iris of different color, increased inter-canthal distance, distopia canthorum, pigmentation anomalies, and varying degree of deafness. It usually follows autosomal dominant pattern. In this report, two cases have been discussed but no familial history of WS has been found. Counseling of the patient is necessary and cases of irreversible deafness have been treated.

Intraoperative floppy-iris syndrome associated with use of antipsychotic drugs.

PubMed

Matsuo, Masato; Sano, Ichiya; Ikeda, Yoshifumi; Fujihara, Etsuko; Tanito, Masaki

2016-08-01

We report 3 cases of intraoperative floppy-iris syndrome (IFIS) during cataract surgery in patients without a history of selective α1-blocker use but with a long-term history of antipsychotic drug use. We reviewed previously reported cases of antipsychotic drug-associated IFIS cases. Observational case series. In case 1, bilateral IFIS developed in a 39-year-old man with chronic angle-closure glaucoma. He had used several classes of antipsychotic drugs to treat schizophrenia, including the first-generation antipsychotic drugs haloperidol and chlorpromazine, the dopamine system stabilizer aripiprazole, the dopamine serotonin antagonists olanzapine and quetiapine, and the serotonin dopamine antagonists risperidone and blonanserin for 7 years. In case 2, a 63-year-old woman with schizophrenia had used aripiprazole, quetiapine, and risperidone for more than 10 years. In case 3, a 65-year-old woman with an organic mental disorder had used haloperidol for more than 10 years. At least 5 cases of antipsychotic drug-induced IFIS have been reported in the literature. Any class of antipsychotic drugs can cause IFIS. Although antipsychotic drug-induced IFIS can be mild, surgeons should be alert to the possibility of IFIS when they treat patients with current and past use of antipsychotic drugs. Copyright © 2016 Canadian Ophthalmological Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

IRiS: construction of ARG networks at genomic scales.

PubMed

Javed, Asif; Pybus, Marc; Melé, Marta; Utro, Filippo; Bertranpetit, Jaume; Calafell, Francesc; Parida, Laxmi

2011-09-01

Given a set of extant haplotypes IRiS first detects high confidence recombination events in their shared genealogy. Next using the local sequence topology defined by each detected event, it integrates these recombinations into an ancestral recombination graph. While the current system has been calibrated for human population data, it is easily extendible to other species as well. IRiS (Identification of Recombinations in Sequences) binary files are available for non-commercial use in both Linux and Microsoft Windows, 32 and 64 bit environments from https://researcher.ibm.com/researcher/view_project.php?id = 2303 parida@us.ibm.com.

A new approach for cancelable iris recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Kai; Sui, Yan; Zhou, Zhi; Du, Yingzi; Zou, Xukai

2010-04-01

The iris is a stable and reliable biometric for positive human identification. However, the traditional iris recognition scheme raises several privacy concerns. One's iris pattern is permanently bound with him and cannot be changed. Hence, once it is stolen, this biometric is lost forever as well as all the applications where this biometric is used. Thus, new methods are desirable to secure the original pattern and ensure its revocability and alternatives when compromised. In this paper, we propose a novel scheme which incorporates iris features, non-invertible transformation and data encryption to achieve "cancelability" and at the same time increases iris recognition accuracy.

Iris indexing based on local intensity order pattern

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Emerich, Simina; Malutan, Raul; Crisan, Septimiu; Lefkovits, Laszlo

2017-03-01

In recent years, iris biometric systems have increased in popularity and have been proven that are capable of handling large-scale databases. The main advantage of these systems is accuracy and reliability. A proper iris patterns classification is expected to reduce the matching time in huge databases. This paper presents an iris indexing technique based on Local Intensity Order Pattern. The performance of the present approach is evaluated on UPOL database and is compared with other recent systems designed for iris indexing. The results illustrate the potential of the proposed method for large scale iris identification.

Iris recognition based on key image feature extraction.

PubMed

Ren, X; Tian, Q; Zhang, J; Wu, S; Zeng, Y

2008-01-01

In iris recognition, feature extraction can be influenced by factors such as illumination and contrast, and thus the features extracted may be unreliable, which can cause a high rate of false results in iris pattern recognition. In order to obtain stable features, an algorithm was proposed in this paper to extract key features of a pattern from multiple images. The proposed algorithm built an iris feature template by extracting key features and performed iris identity enrolment. Simulation results showed that the selected key features have high recognition accuracy on the CASIA Iris Set, where both contrast and illumination variance exist.

Limbus Impact on Off-angle Iris Degradation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Karakaya, Mahmut; Barstow, Del R; Santos-Villalobos, Hector J

The accuracy of iris recognition depends on the quality of data capture and is negatively affected by several factors such as angle, occlusion, and dilation. Off-angle iris recognition is a new research focus in biometrics that tries to address several issues including corneal refraction, complex 3D iris texture, and blur. In this paper, we present an additional significant challenge that degrades the performance of the off-angle iris recognition systems, called the limbus effect . The limbus is the region at the border of the cornea where the cornea joins the sclera. The limbus is a semitransparent tissue that occludes amore » side portion of the iris plane. The amount of occluded iris texture on the side nearest the camera increases as the image acquisition angle increases. Without considering the role of the limbus effect, it is difficult to design an accurate off-angle iris recognition system. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that investigates the limbus effect in detail from a biometrics perspective. Based on results from real images and simulated experiments with real iris texture, the limbus effect increases the hamming distance score between frontal and off-angle iris images ranging from 0.05 to 0.2 depending upon the limbus height.« less

The Priority of Road Rehabilitation in Karanganyar Regency Using IRI Estimation from Roadroid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Achmadi, F.; Suprapto, M.; Setyawan, A.

2017-02-01

The IRI (International Roughness Index) is a road roughness index commonly obtained from measured longitudinal road profiles. This is one of the functional performance a surface of road pavement. Therefore, needs to be done evaluation and monitoring periodically to getting priority of road rehabilitation right on target. The IRI standard has commonly been used worldwide for evaluating road system. The Roadroid is an application to measure road quality with a website to view road quality. It is designed for Android smartphones, so we can easily measure and monitor the road and also use the camera for GPS-tagged photo. By using the built-in vibration sensor in smartphones, it is possible to collect IRI value which can be an indicator road conditions. This study attempts to explain the priority of road rehabilitation in Karanganyar Regency. The location of the study focused on a collector street (primary, secondary and locally road). The result of IRI estimation will be combined with other aspects that influences; land use, policy, the connectivity of road and traffic average daily. Based on IRI estimation using Roadroid, the road conditions in Karanganyar Regency can be described 59,60% were good (IRI<4,5) 21,30% fair (4,512).

Simultaneous observations of Ellerman bombs by NST and IRIS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Y. H.; Yurchyshyn, V.; Cho, I. H.; Lee, J.; Park, Y. D.; Yang, H.; Ahn, K.; Goode, P.

2015-12-01

In this study, we present the simultaneous observations of Ellerman bombs made by New Solar Telescope (NST) of Big Bear Solar Observatory (BBSO) and Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) in space. The data obtained during joint NST-IRIS observations on 30 and 31 in July 2014. We observed two representative events on both days. The first one was a relatively weak Ellerman bomb occurred around 19:20 UT on 30 July 2014. IRIS observed this event by sit-and-stare mode thus we analyzed high cadence spectral data and slit-jaw data simultaneously. We found that this event was a hot explosion that occurred by magnetic reconnection in the lower atmosphere of the Sun. The second event was quite strong Ellerman bomb (20:20 UT on 31 July 2014) that is well observed by NST FISS (Fast Imaging Solar Spectrograph), while there was no IRIS spectral data. We had IRIS slit-jaw data only. The Ellerman bomb was clearly coincident with the IRIS brightening at the same location. Since the Ellerman bombs are usually believed to occur in the photosphere with no coronal emission, it should be explained its higher atmospheric emission in IRIS data. We will present the result of simultaneous observations by IRIS and NST instruments and discuss physical connection between Ellerman bombs and IRIS brightenings.

A novel in vivo model of puncture-induced iris neovascularization

PubMed Central

Aronsson, Monica; Kvanta, Anders

2017-01-01

Purpose To assess iris neovascularization by uveal puncture of the mouse eye and determine the role of angiogenic factors during iris neovascularization. Methods Uveal punctures were performed on BalbC mouse eyes to induce iris angiogenesis. VEGF-blockage was used as an anti-angiogenic treatment, while normoxia- and hypoxia-conditioned media from retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells was used as an angiogenic-inducer in this model. Iris vasculature was determined in vivo by noninvasive methods. Iris blood vessels were stained for platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 and vascular sprouts were counted as markers of angiogenesis. Expression of angiogenic and inflammatory factors in the puncture-induced model were determined by qPCR and western blot. Results Punctures led to increased neovascularization and sprouting of the iris. qPCR and protein analysis showed an increase of angiogenic factors, particularly in the plasminogen-activating receptor and inflammatory systems. VEGF-blockage partly reduced iris neovascularization, and treatment with hypoxia-conditioned RPE medium led to a statistically significant increase in iris neovascularization. Conclusions This study presents the first evidence of a puncture-induced iris angiogenesis model in the mouse. In a broader context, this novel in vivo model of neovascularization has the potential for noninvasive evaluation of angiogenesis modulating substances. PMID:28658313

Iris recognition as a biometric method after cataract surgery

PubMed Central

Roizenblatt, Roberto; Schor, Paulo; Dante, Fabio; Roizenblatt, Jaime; Belfort, Rubens

2004-01-01

Background Biometric methods are security technologies, which use human characteristics for personal identification. Iris recognition systems use iris textures as unique identifiers. This paper presents an analysis of the verification of iris identities after intra-ocular procedures, when individuals were enrolled before the surgery. Methods Fifty-five eyes from fifty-five patients had their irises enrolled before a cataract surgery was performed. They had their irises verified three times before and three times after the procedure, and the Hamming (mathematical) distance of each identification trial was determined, in a controlled ideal biometric environment. The mathematical difference between the iris code before and after the surgery was also compared to a subjective evaluation of the iris anatomy alteration by an experienced surgeon. Results A correlation between visible subjective iris texture alteration and mathematical difference was verified. We found only six cases in which the eye was no more recognizable, but these eyes were later reenrolled. The main anatomical changes that were found in the new impostor eyes are described. Conclusions Cataract surgeries change iris textures in such a way that iris recognition systems, which perform mathematical comparisons of textural biometric features, are able to detect these changes and sometimes even discard a pre-enrolled iris considering it an impostor. In our study, re-enrollment proved to be a feasible procedure. PMID:14748929

Iris recognition as a biometric method after cataract surgery.

PubMed

Roizenblatt, Roberto; Schor, Paulo; Dante, Fabio; Roizenblatt, Jaime; Belfort, Rubens

2004-01-28

Biometric methods are security technologies, which use human characteristics for personal identification. Iris recognition systems use iris textures as unique identifiers. This paper presents an analysis of the verification of iris identities after intra-ocular procedures, when individuals were enrolled before the surgery. Fifty-five eyes from fifty-five patients had their irises enrolled before a cataract surgery was performed. They had their irises verified three times before and three times after the procedure, and the Hamming (mathematical) distance of each identification trial was determined, in a controlled ideal biometric environment. The mathematical difference between the iris code before and after the surgery was also compared to a subjective evaluation of the iris anatomy alteration by an experienced surgeon. A correlation between visible subjective iris texture alteration and mathematical difference was verified. We found only six cases in which the eye was no more recognizable, but these eyes were later reenrolled. The main anatomical changes that were found in the new impostor eyes are described. Cataract surgeries change iris textures in such a way that iris recognition systems, which perform mathematical comparisons of textural biometric features, are able to detect these changes and sometimes even discard a pre-enrolled iris considering it an impostor. In our study, re-enrollment proved to be a feasible procedure.

The role of BRCA1-IRIS in the development and progression of triple negative breast cancers in Egypt: possible link to disease early lesion.

PubMed

Bogan, Danielle; Meile, Lucio; El Bastawisy, Ahmed; Yousef, Hend F; Zekri, Abdel-Rahman N; Bahnassy, Abeer A; ElShamy, Wael M

2017-05-12

Breast cancer is the most globally diagnosed female cancer, with the triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) being the most aggressive subtype of the disease. In this study we aimed at comparing the effect of BRCA1-IRIS overexpression on the clinico-pathological characteristics in breast cancer patients with TNBC or non-TNBC in the largest comprehensive cancer center in Egypt. To reach this goal, we conducted an observational study at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), Cairo University (Cairo, Egypt). The data on all diagnosed breast cancer patients, between 2009 and 2012, were reviewed. BRCA1-IRIS expression measured using real time RT/PCR in these patients' tumor samples was correlated to tumor characteristics, such as to clinico-pathological features, therapeutic responses, and survival outcomes. 96 patients were enrolled and of these 45% were TNBC, and 55% were of other subtypes (hereafter, non-TNBC). All patients presented with invasive ductal carcinomas. No significant difference was observed for risk factors, such as age and menopausal status between the TNBC and the non-TNBC groups except after BRCA1-IRIS expression was factored in. The majority of the tumors in both groups were ≤5 cm at surgery (p = 0.013). However, in the TNBC group, ≤5 cm tumors were BRCA1-IRIS-overexpressing, whereas in the non-TNBC group they were BRCA1-IRIS-negative (p = 0.00007). Most of the TNBC patients diagnosed with grade 1 or 2 were BRCA1-IRIS-overexpressing, whereas non-TNBCs were IRIS-negative (p = 0.00035). No statistical significance was measured in patients diagnosed with grade 3 tumors. Statistically significant difference between TNBCs and non-TNBCs and tumor stage with regard to BRCA1-IRIS-overexpression was observed. Presence of axillary lymph node metastases was positively associated with BRCA1-IRIS overexpression in TNBC group, and with BRCA1-IRIS-negative status in the non-TNBC group (p = 0.00009). Relapse after chemotherapy (p < 0.00001), and local recurrence/distant metastasis after surgery (p = 0.0028) were more pronounced in TNBC patients with BRCA1-IRIS-overexpressing tumors compared to non-TNBC patients. Finally, decreased disease-free survival in TNBC/BRCA1-IRIS-overexpressing patients compared to TNBC/BRCA1-IRIS-negative patients, and decreased overall survival in TNBC as well as non-TNBC patients was driven by BRCA1-IRIS overexpression. TNBC/BRCA1-IRIS-overexpressing tumors are more aggressive than TNBC/BRCA1-IRIS-negative or non-TNBC/BRCA1-IRIS-overexpressing or both negative tumors. Further studies are warranted to define whether BRCA1-IRIS drives the early TNBC lesions growth and dissemination and whether it could be used as a diagnostic biomarker and/or therapeutic target for these lesions at an early stage setting.

Role of Wnt4/β-catenin, Ang II/TGFβ, ACE2, NF-κB, and IL-18 in attenuating renal ischemia/reperfusion-induced injury in rats treated with Vit D and pioglitazone.

PubMed

Ali, Rabab M; Al-Shorbagy, Muhammad Y; Helmy, Maged W; El-Abhar, Hanan S

2018-07-15

Renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (I/RI) remains a critical clinical situation. Several evidence revealed the potential reno-protective effects of Vitamin D and/or pioglitazone, on renal I/RI. This study addresses the possible involvement of the Wnt4/β-catenin signaling, p-S536NF-κBp65, PPARγ, Ang II/TGF-β, and ACE2 as potential effectors to vitamin D and pioglitazone-mediated renoprotective effects. Two sets of Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 30 rat each), were randomized into sham, I/R, Vit D "alfacalcidol" (5 ng/kg/day), pioglitazone (5 mg/kg/day), and Vit D + pioglitazone groups. In all groups renal biochemical parameters, as well as inflammatory and structural profiles were assessed, besides the expression/contents of Wnt4/β-catenin and pS536-NF-κBp65. All treatments started 7 days before I/RI and animals were killed 24 h after I/RI in the first set, while those in the 2nd set continued their treatments for 14 days. After 24 h, all pre-treatments impeded theI/R effect on neutrophils recruitment, p-S536NF-κBp65, IL-18, NGAL, caspase-3, AngII, ACE-2, PPARγ and TGF-β, besides the expression of Wnt4 and ACE-2 with notable reflection on histological changes. Two weeks after I/RI, except a marked up regulation in Wnt4 expression and a striking elevation in the β-catenin content, the magnitude of the injurious events was relatively less pronounced, an effect that was mostly augmented by the different treatments. The current study pledges a promising and novel reno-protective role of the administration of Vit D and pioglitazone entailing a potential involvement of ICAM-1, MPO, NF-κB, Ang II, ACE2, TGFβ, and a modulation of Wnt4/β-catenin pathway. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Inhibition of ice recrystallization and cryoprotective activity of wheat proteins in liver and pancreatic cells.

PubMed

Chow-Shi-Yée, Mélanie; Briard, Jennie G; Grondin, Mélanie; Averill-Bates, Diana A; Ben, Robert N; Ouellet, François

2016-05-01

Efficient cryopreservation of cells at ultralow temperatures requires the use of substances that help maintain viability and metabolic functions post-thaw. We are developing new technology where plant proteins are used to substitute the commonly-used, but relatively toxic chemical dimethyl sulfoxide. Recombinant forms of four structurally diverse wheat proteins, TaIRI-2 (ice recrystallization inhibition), TaBAS1 (2-Cys peroxiredoxin), WCS120 (dehydrin), and TaENO (enolase) can efficiently cryopreserve hepatocytes and insulin-secreting INS832/13 cells. This study shows that TaIRI-2 and TaENO are internalized during the freeze-thaw process, while TaBAS1 and WCS120 remain at the extracellular level. Possible antifreeze activity of the four proteins was assessed. The "splat cooling" method for quantifying ice recrystallization inhibition activity (a property that characterizes antifreeze proteins) revealed that TaIRI-2 and TaENO are more potent than TaBAS1 and WCS120. Because of their ability to inhibit ice recrystallization, the wheat recombinant proteins TaIRI-2 and TaENO are promising candidates and could prove useful to improve cryopreservation protocols for hepatocytes and insulin-secreting cells, and possibly other cell types. TaENO does not have typical ice-binding domains, and the TargetFreeze tool did not predict an antifreeze capacity, suggesting the existence of nontypical antifreeze domains. The fact that TaBAS1 is an efficient cryoprotectant but does not show antifreeze activity indicates a different mechanism of action. The cryoprotective properties conferred by WCS120 depend on biochemical properties that remain to be determined. Overall, our results show that the proteins' efficiencies vary between cell types, and confirm that a combination of different protection mechanisms is needed to successfully cryopreserve mammalian cells. © 2016 The Protein Society.

Morphological alterations within the peripheral fixation of the iris dilator muscle in eyes with pigmentary glaucoma.

PubMed

Flügel-Koch, Cassandra M; Tektas, Ozan Y; Kaufman, Paul L; Paulsen, Friedrich P; Lütjen-Drecoll, Elke

2014-06-17

To analyze the peripheral fixation of the iris dilator muscle in normal eyes and in eyes with pigmentary glaucoma (PG). Using 63 control eyes (age 18 months-99 years), the peripheral iris dilator was investigated by light microscopy, immunohistochemistry, and electron microscopy. Development was studied using 18 differently aged fetal eyes stained immunohistochemically against α-smooth muscle (SM) actin. The peripheral iris dilator muscle in PG was analyzed using semithin and ultrathin sections of six glutaraldehyde-fixed eyes from three donors aged 38, 62, and 74 years. In normal eyes, the peripheral end of the iris dilator muscle is arranged in a sphincter-like manner. Arcade-shaped tendinous connections associated with myofibroblasts (iridial strands) anchor the iris dilator within the elastic-fibromuscular ciliary meshwork that also serves as fixation area for the elastic tendons of the inner ciliary muscle portions. The iridial strands are innervated and can adapt their length during accommodation. The PG eyes show incomplete circular bundles and iridial strands that are mainly anchored to the iris stroma and the flexible uveal parts of the trabecular meshwork. The normal anchorage of the peripheral iris dilator and its presumably neuronally regulated length adaptation stabilize the peripheral iris during accommodation. Insufficient fixation in PG could promote posterior bowing of the iris with rubbing against the zonular fibers and pigment liberation from the iris pigmented epithelium. Copyright 2014 The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc.

Coloboma of the iris

MedlinePlus

... enable JavaScript. Coloboma of the iris is a hole or defect of the iris of the eye. Most colobomas are present since birth (congenital). Considerations Coloboma of the iris can look like a second pupil or a black notch at the edge of the pupil. This ...

PLATEAU IRIS – DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

PubMed Central

Stefan, Cornel; Iliescu, Daniela Adriana; Batras, Mehdi; Timaru, Cristina Mihaela; De Simone, Algerino

2015-01-01

Objectives: The objective of our study was to review the current knowledge on the diagnosis and treatment options of plateau iris configuration and syndrome. Systematic review methodology: Relevant publications on plateau iris that were published until 2014. Conclusions: Plateau iris syndrome is a form of primary angle closure glaucoma caused by a large or anteriorly positioned ciliary body that leads to mechanical obstruction of trabecular meshwork. This condition is most often found in younger patients. Plateau iris has been considered an abnormal anatomic variant of the iris that can be diagnosed on ultrasound biomicroscopy or optical coherence tomography of anterior segment. Patients with plateau iris syndrome can be recognized by the lack of response in angle opening after iridotomy. The treatment of choice in these cases is argon laser peripheral iridoplasty PMID:27373109

Transient expansion of activated CD8+ T cells characterizes tuberculosis-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome in patients with HIV: a case control study

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background CD4+ T cell activation indicators have been reported to be a common phenomenon underlying diverse manifestations of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). However, we have found that a high frequency of circulating CD8+ T cells is a specific risk factor for mycobacterial IRIS. Therefore, we investigated whether CD8+ T cells from patients who develop TB IRIS were specifically activated. Methods We obtained PBMCs from HIV+ patients prior to and 4, 8, 12, 24, 52 and 104 weeks after initiating antiretroviral therapy. CD38 and HLADR expression on naive, central memory and effector memory CD8+ and CD4+ T cells were determined by flow cytometry. Absolute counts and frequencies of CD8+ T cell subsets were compared between patients who developed TB IRIS, who developed other IRIS forms and who remained IRIS-free. Results TB IRIS patients showed significantly higher counts of naive CD8+ T cells than the other groups at most time points, with a contraction of the effector memory subpopulation occurring later in the follow-up period. Activated (CD38+ HLADR+) CD8+ T cells from all groups decreased with treatment but transiently peaked in TB IRIS patients. This increase was due to an increase in activated naive CD8+ T cell counts during IRIS. Additionally, the CD8+ T cell subpopulations of TB IRIS patients expressed HLADR without CD38 more frequently and expressed CD38 without HLADR less frequently than cells from other groups. Conclusions CD8+ T cell activation is specifically relevant to TB IRIS. Different IRIS forms may involve different alterations in T cell subsets, suggesting different underlying inflammatory processes. PMID:23688318

Comparison of anterior segment optical coherence tomography angiography and fluorescein angiography for iris vasculature analysis.

PubMed

Zett, Claudio; Stina, Deborah M Rosa; Kato, Renata Tiemi; Novais, Eduardo Amorim; Allemann, Norma

2018-04-01

The aim of this study is to perform imaging of irises of different colors using spectral domain anterior segment optical coherence tomography angiography (AS-OCTA) and iris fluorescein angiography (IFA) and compare their effectiveness in examining iris vasculature. This is a cross-sectional observational clinical study. Patients with no vascular iris alterations and different pigmentation levels were recruited. Participants were imaged using OCTA adapted with an anterior segment lens and IFA with a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope (cSLO) adapted with an anterior segment lens. AS-OCTA and IFA images were then compared. Two blinded readers classified iris pigmentation and compared the percentage of visible vessels between OCTA and IFA images. Twenty eyes of 10 patients with different degrees of iris pigmentation were imaged using AS-OCTA and IFA. Significantly more visible iris vessels were observed using OCTA than using FA (W = 5.22; p < 0.001). Iris pigmentation was negatively correlated to the percentage of visible vessels in both imaging methods (OCTA, rho = - 0.73, p < 0.001; IFA, rho = - 0.77, p < 0.001). Unlike FA, AS-OCTA could not detect leakage of dye, delay, or impregnation. Nystagmus and inadequate fixation along with motion artifacts resulted in lower quality images in AS-OCTA than in IFA. AS-OCTA is a new imaging modality which allows analysis of iris vasculature. In both AS-OCTA and IFA, iris pigmentation caused vasculature imaging blockage, but AS-OCTA provided more detailed iris vasculature images than IFA. Additional studies including different iris pathologies are needed to determine the most optimal scanning parameters in OCTA of the anterior segment.

[Comparative clinical study of wavefront-guided laser in situ keratomileusis with versus without iris recognition for myopia or myopic astigmatism].

PubMed

Wang, Wei-qun; Zhang, Jin-song; Zhao, Xiao-jin

2011-10-01

To explore the postoperative visual acuity results of wavefront-guided LASIK with iris recognition for myopia or myopic astigmatism and the changes of higher-order aberrations and contrast sensitivity function (CSF). Series of prospective case studies, 158 eyes (85 cases) of myopia or myopic astigmatism were divided into two groups: one group underwent wavefront-guided LASIK with iris recognition (iris recognition group); another group underwent wavefront-guided LASIK treatment without iris recognition through the limbus maring point (non-iris recognition group). To comparative analyze the postoperative visual acuity, residual refraction, the RMS of higher-order aberrations and CSF of two groups. There was no statistical significance difference between two groups of the average uncorrected visual acuity (t = 0.039, 0.058, 0.898; P = 0.844, 0.810, 0.343), best corrected visual acuity (t = 0.320, 0.440, 1.515; P = 0.572, 0.507, 0.218), and residual refraction [spherical equivalent (t = 0.027, 0.215, 0.238; P = 0.869, 0.643, 0.626), spherical (t = 0.145, 0.117, 0.038; P = 0.704, 0.732, 0.845) and cylinder (t = 1.676, 1.936, 0.334; P = 0.195, 0.164, 0.563)] at postoperative 10 days, 1 month and 3 month. The security index of iris recognition group at postoperative 3 month was 1.06 and non-iris recognition group was 1.03; the efficacy index of iris recognition group is 1.01 and non-iris recognition group was 1.00. Postoperative 3 month iris recognition group 93.83% eyes and non-iris recognition group of 90.91% eyes spherical equivalent within ± 0.50 D (χ(2) = 0.479, P = 0.489), iris recognition group of 98.77% eyes and non-iris recognition group of 97.40% eyes spherical equivalent within ± 1.00 D (Fisher test, P = 0.613). There was no significance difference between the two groups of security, efficacy and predictability. Non-iris recognition group postoperative 1 month and postoperative 3 months 3-order order aberrations root mean square value (RMS) higher than the iris recognition group increased (t = 3.414, -2.870; P = 0.027, 0.045), in particular of coma; the general higher-order aberrations (t = 0.386, 1.132; P = 0.719, 0.321), 4-order aberrations (t = 0.808, 2.720; P = 0.464, 0.063), and 5-order aberrations (t = 0.148, -1.717; P = 0.890, 0.161) show no statistically significant difference. Three months after surgery, two groups have recovered at all spatial frequencies of CSF, iris recognition group at 3.0 c/d (t = 3.209, P = 0.002) and 6.0 c/d (t = 2.997, P = 0.004) spatial frequencies of CSF under mesopic condition was better than non-iris recognition group, glare contrast sensitivity function (GCSF) for 3.0 c/d (t = 3.423, P = 0.001) and 6.0 c/d (t = 6.986, P = 0.000) spatial frequencies under mesopic condition and 1.5 c/d (t = 9.839, P = 0.000) and 3.0 c/d (t = 7.367, P = 0.000) spatial frequencies under photopic condition in iris recognition group were better than non-iris recognition group, there were no significant difference between two groups at the other spatial frequencies. Wavefront-guided LASIK with or without iris recognition both acquired better postoperative visual acuity, but in comparison with without iris recognition, wavefront-guided LASIK with iris recognition is efficient to reduce coma and enhance contrast sensitivity of postoperative.

Improved iris localization by using wide and narrow field of view cameras for iris recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Yeong Gon; Shin, Kwang Yong; Park, Kang Ryoung

2013-10-01

Biometrics is a method of identifying individuals by their physiological or behavioral characteristics. Among other biometric identifiers, iris recognition has been widely used for various applications that require a high level of security. When a conventional iris recognition camera is used, the size and position of the iris region in a captured image vary according to the X, Y positions of a user's eye and the Z distance between a user and the camera. Therefore, the searching area of the iris detection algorithm is increased, which can inevitably decrease both the detection speed and accuracy. To solve these problems, we propose a new method of iris localization that uses wide field of view (WFOV) and narrow field of view (NFOV) cameras. Our study is new as compared to previous studies in the following four ways. First, the device used in our research acquires three images, one each of the face and both irises, using one WFOV and two NFOV cameras simultaneously. The relation between the WFOV and NFOV cameras is determined by simple geometric transformation without complex calibration. Second, the Z distance (between a user's eye and the iris camera) is estimated based on the iris size in the WFOV image and anthropometric data of the size of the human iris. Third, the accuracy of the geometric transformation between the WFOV and NFOV cameras is enhanced by using multiple matrices of the transformation according to the Z distance. Fourth, the searching region for iris localization in the NFOV image is significantly reduced based on the detected iris region in the WFOV image and the matrix of geometric transformation corresponding to the estimated Z distance. Experimental results showed that the performance of the proposed iris localization method is better than that of conventional methods in terms of accuracy and processing time.

Differences in iris thickness among African Americans, Caucasian Americans, Hispanic Americans, Chinese Americans, and Filipino-Americans.

PubMed

Lee, Roland Y; Huang, Guofu; Porco, Travis C; Chen, Yi-Chun; He, Mingguang; Lin, Shan C

2013-12-01

To evaluate the capability of iris thickness parameters to explain the difference in primary angle-closure glaucoma prevalence among the different racial groups. In this prospective study, 436 patients with open and narrow angles that met inclusion criteria were consecutively recruited from the UCSF general ophthalmology and glaucoma clinics to receive anterior segment optical coherence tomography imaging under standardized dark conditions. Images from 11 patients were removed due to poor visibility of the scleral spurs and the remaining images were analyzed using the Zhongshan Angle Assessment Program to assess the following measurements for the nasal and temporal angle of the anterior chamber: iris thickness at 750 and 2000 μm from the scleral spurs and the maximum iris thickness at middle one third of the iris. Iris thickness parameters were compared among and within the following 5 different racial groups: African Americans, Caucasian Americans, Hispanic Americans, Chinese Americans, and Filipino-Americans. In comparing iris parameters among the open-angle racial groups, significant differences were found for nasal iris thickness at 750 and 2000 μm from the scleral spurs in which Chinese Americans displayed the highest mean value (P=0.01, P<0.0001). Among the narrow-angle racial groups, significant difference was found for nasal iris thickness at 2000 μm from the scleral in which Chinese Americans showed the highest mean value (P<0.0001). Significant difference was also found for temporal maximum iris thickness at middle one third of the iris in which African Americans exhibited the highest mean value (P=0.021). Iris thickness was modeled as a function of angle status using linear mixed-effects regression, adjusting for age, sex, pupil diameter, spherical equivalent, ethnicity, and the use of both eyes in patients. The iris thickness difference between the narrow-angle and open-angle groups was significant (P=0.0007). Racial groups that historically showed higher prevalence of primary angle-closure glaucoma possess thicker irides.

Iris Damage Is Associated With Elevated Cytokine Levels in Aqueous Humor.

PubMed

Aketa, Naohiko; Yamaguchi, Takefumi; Suzuki, Terumasa; Higa, Kazunari; Yagi-Yaguchi, Yukari; Satake, Yoshiyuki; Tsubota, Kazuo; Shimazaki, Jun

2017-05-01

To evaluate the association between iris damage and cytokine levels in the aqueous humor (AqH). A total of 201 AqH samples from 201 consecutive patients (mean age 73.7 ± 10.6) were collected at the beginning of corneal transplantation or cataract surgery. Iris damage of each case was assessed from preoperative slit-lamp findings based on its severity. The subjects were classified into three groups: eyes without iris damage (126 eyes), eyes with mild iris damage (51 eyes), and eyes with severe iris damage (24 eyes). The levels of cytokines (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p70, IL-13, IL-17a, interferon gamma-induced protein [IP]-10, monocyte chemotactic protein [MCP]-1, IFN-α, IFN-γ, macrophage inflammatory protein [MIP]-1α, MIP-1β, P-selectin, E-selectin, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule [sICAM]-1, TNF-α, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor [GM-CSF]) in AqH were measured by multiplex beads immunoassay. The levels of aqueous protein, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-17A, MCP-1, TNF-α, E-selectin, P-selectin, and sICAM-1 in eyes with mild and severe iris damage were higher than in those without iris damage (P < 0.033). Multivariate analyses of clinical factors revealed that iris damage was associated with the history of complicated glaucoma, and the number of previous intraocular surgeries. The levels of AqH IL-6, IL-8, IL-13, MIP-1α, TNF-α, and sICAM-1 were significantly elevated in eyes with mild and severe iris damage in phakic eyes, and the levels of AqH IL-8 and sICAM-1 were significantly elevated in eyes with severe iris damage in pseudophakic eyes, compared with the eyes without iris damage (P < 0.045). Iris damage was associated with the elevation in the levels of aqueous protein and cytokines.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Ethyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (ETBE) (Public Comment Draft)

EPA Science Inventory

In September 2016, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (USEPA) released the draft Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) Toxicological Review of Ethyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (ETBE). Consistent with the 2013 IRIS Enhancements, draft IRIS assessments are released prior to e...

IRIS TOXICOLOGICAL REVIEW AND SUMMARY DOCUMENTS FOR BERYLLIUM AND COMPOUNDS

EPA Science Inventory

EPA's assessment of the noncancer health effects and carcinogenic potential of Beryllium was added to the IRIS database in 1998. The IRIS program is updating the IRIS assessment for Beryllium. This update will incorporate health effects information published since the last assess...

78 FR 18426 - Proposed Information Collection (IRIS) Activity; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-26

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0619] Proposed Information Collection (IRIS... through the Inquiry Routing and Information System (IRIS). DATES: Written comments and recommendations on... information technology. Title: Inquiry Routing and Information System (IRIS), VA Form 0873. OMB Control Number...

The International Reference Ionosphere - Status 2013

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bilitza, Dieter

2015-04-01

This paper describes the latest version of the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) model. IRI-2012 includes new models for the electron density and ion densities in the region below the F-peak, a storm-time model for the auroral E-region, an improved electron temperature model that includes variations with solar activity, and for the first time a description of auroral boundaries. In addition, the thermosphere model required for baseline neutral densities and temperatures was upgraded from MSIS-86 to the newer NRLMSIS-00 model and Corrected Geomagnetic coordinates (CGM) were included in IRI as an additional coordinate system for a better representation of auroral and polar latitudes. Ongoing IRI activities towards the inclusion of an improved model for the F2 peak height hmF2 are discussed as are efforts to develop a "Real-Time IRI". The paper is based on an IRI status report presented at the 2013 IRI Workshop in Olsztyn, Poland. The IRI homepage is at

[Evaluation of Iris Morphology Viewed through Stromal Edematous Corneas by Infrared Camera].

PubMed

Kobayashi, Masaaki; Morishige, Naoyuki; Morita, Yukiko; Yamada, Naoyuki; Kobayashi, Motomi; Sonoda, Koh-Hei

2016-02-01

We reported that the application of infrared camera enables us to observe iris morphology in Peters' anomaly through edematous corneas. To observe the iris morphology in bullous keratopathy or failure grafts with an infrared camera. Eleven bullous keratopathy or failure grafts subjects (6 men and 5 women, mean age ± SD; 72.7 ± 13.0 years old) were enrolled in this study. The iris morphology was observed by applying visible light mode and near infrared light mode of infrared camera (MeibomPen). The detectability of pupil shapes, iris patterns and presence of iridectomy was evaluated. Infrared mode observation enabled us to detect the pupil shapes in 11 out of 11 cases, iris patterns in 3 out of 11 cases, and presence of iridetomy in 9 out of 11 cases although visible light mode observation could not detect any iris morphological changes. Applying infrared optics was valuable for observation of the iris morphology through stromal edematous corneas.

Intracellular cytoskeleton and junction proteins of endothelial cells in the porcine iris microvasculature.

PubMed

Yang, Hongfang; Yu, Paula K; Cringle, Stephen J; Sun, Xinghuai; Yu, Dao-Yi

2015-11-01

Recently we reported studies of the iris microvasculature and its endothelial cells using intra-luminal micro-perfusion, fixation, and silver staining, suggesting that the iris vascular endothelium may be crucial for maintaining homeostasis in the ocular anterior segment. Here we present information regarding the intracellular structure and cell junctions of the iris endothelium. Thirty-seven porcine eyes were used for this study. The temporal long posterior ciliary artery was cannulated to assess the iris microvascular network and its endothelium using intra-luminal micro-perfusion, fixation, and staining with phalloidin for intracellular cytoskeleton f-actin, and with antibodies against claudin-5 and VE-cadherin for junction proteins. Nuclei were counterstained with Hoechst. The iris was flat-mounted for confocal imaging. The iris microvasculature was studied for its distribution, branch orders and endothelial morphometrics with endothelial cell length measured for each vessel order. Our results showed that morphometrics of the iris microvasculature was comparable with our previous silver staining. Abundant stress fibres and peripheral border staining were seen within the endothelial cells in larger arteries. An obvious decrease in cytoplasmic stress fibres was evident further downstream in the smaller arterioles, and they tended to be absent from capillaries and veins. Endothelial intercellular junctions throughout the iris vasculature were VE-cadherin and claudin-5 immuno-positive, indicating the presence of both adherent junctions and tight junctions between vascular endothelial cells throughout the iris microvasculature. Unevenness of claudin-5 staining was noted along the endothelial cell borders in almost every order of vessels, especially in veins and small arterioles. Our results suggest that significant heterogeneity of intracellular structure and junction proteins is present in different orders of the iris vasculature in addition to vascular diameter and shape of the endothelia. Detailed information of the topography and intracellular structure and junction proteins of the endothelium of the iris microvasculature combined with unique structural features of the iris may help us to further understand the physiological and pathogenic roles of the iris vasculature in relevant ocular diseases. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

In vivo analysis of the iris thickness by spectral domain optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Invernizzi, Alessandro; Cigada, Mario; Savoldi, Luisa; Cavuto, Silvio; Fontana, Luigi; Cimino, Luca

2014-09-01

To assess the effectiveness of spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in providing in vivo measurements of iris thickness in healthy and pathological subjects. 14 healthy volunteers and 14 patients with unilateral Fuchs' uveitis were enrolled in the study. The two groups were comparable for age, gender and race. Each subject underwent complete clinical examination and anterior segment SD-OCT imaging in both eyes. SD-OCT scans of the iris were performed following a cross-sectional pattern. Iris thickness values were obtained using a purposely developed software-based analysis of OCT images. Measurements were carried out twice by two trained independent operators to assess intraobserver and interobserver repeatability. Analysis of iris thickness was conducted in four main quadrants: superior, inferior, nasal and temporal. Iris thickness values from normal subjects were compared with the ones measured in the affected and fellow eyes of patients with Fuchs' uveitis. Iris thickness measurements showed good intraobserver and interobserver repeatability (intraclass correlation coefficient >0.971). Superior and temporal iris sectors showed respectively thickest and thinnest values in all groups. In healthy eyes, iris thickness ranged from 327.92±37.29 μm temporally to 405.25±48.49 μm superiorly. Iris thickness measurements in the affected eyes of Fuchs' uveitis patients ranged from 285.48±56.02 μm temporally to 376.12±60.97 μm superiorly. Multiple comparison analysis showed iris thickness values to be significantly lower in eyes affected by Fuchs' uveitis than both in fellow eyes (p<0.001) of the same patients and in healthy eyes (p=0.0074). SD-OCT is a suitable technique for iris thickness assessment. Thickness analysis must be carried out using a sectorial approach, taking into consideration anatomical variations existing between different iris regions. SD-OCT is a potentially useful tool for detecting iris thickness variations induced by pathological conditions such as Fuchs' uveitis. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Porcine cadaver iris model for iris heating during corneal surgery with a femtosecond laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Hui; Fan, Zhongwei; Wang, Jiang; Yan, Ying; Juhasz, Tibor; Kurtz, Ron

2015-03-01

Multiple femtosecond lasers have now been cleared for use for ophthalmic surgery, including for creation of corneal flaps in LASIK surgery. Preliminary study indicated that during typical surgical use, laser energy may pass beyond the cornea with potential effects on the iris. As a model for laser exposure of the iris during femtosecond corneal surgery, we simulated the temperature rise in porcine cadaver iris during direct illumination by the femtosecond laser. Additionally, ex-vivo iris heating due to femtosecond laser irradiation was measured with an infrared thermal camera (Fluke corp. Everett, WA) as a validation of the simulation.

Extending Iris: The VAO SED Analysis Tool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laurino, O.; Busko, I.; Cresitello-Dittmar, M.; D'Abrusco, R.; Doe, S.; Evans, J.; Pevunova, O.

2013-10-01

Iris is a tool developed by the Virtual Astronomical Observatory (VAO) for building and analyzing Spectral Energy Distributions (SEDs). Iris was designed to be extensible, so that new components and models can be developed by third parties and then included at runtime. Iris can be extended in different ways: new file readers allow users to integrate data in custom formats into Iris SEDs; new models can be fitted to the data, in the form of template libraries for template fitting, data tables, and arbitrary Python functions. The interoperability-centered design of Iris and the Virtual Observatory standards and protocols can enable new science functionalities involving SED data.

Using crypts as iris minutiae

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Feng; Flynn, Patrick J.

2013-05-01

Iris recognition is one of the most reliable biometric technologies for identity recognition and verification, but it has not been used in a forensic context because the representation and matching of iris features are not straightforward for traditional iris recognition techniques. In this paper we concentrate on the iris crypt as a visible feature used to represent the characteristics of irises in a similar way to fingerprint minutiae. The matching of crypts is based on their appearances and locations. The number of matching crypt pairs found between two irises can be used for identity verification and the convenience of manual inspection makes iris crypts a potential candidate for forensic applications.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Ammonia Noncancer Inhalation ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

In September 2016, EPA finalized the IRIS assessment of Ammonia (Noncancer Inhalation). The Toxicological Review was reviewed internally by EPA and by other federal agencies and White House Offices before public release in June 2016. Consistent with the May 2009 IRIS assessment development process, all written comments on IRIS assessments submitted by other federal agencies and White House Offices are made publicly available. Accordingly, interagency comments and the interagency science discussion materials provided to other agencies, including interagency review drafts of the IRIS Toxicological Review of Ammonia (Noncancer Inhalation) are posted on this site. Note: No major science comments were received on the Interagency Science Discussion Draft. EPA is undertaking an Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for ammonia. IRIS is an EPA database containing Agency scientific positions on potential adverse human health effects that may result from chronic (or lifetime) exposure to chemicals in the environment. IRIS contains chemical-specific summaries of qualitative and quantitative health information in support of two steps of the risk assessment paradigm, i.e., hazard identification and dose-response evaluation. IRIS assessments are used in combination with specific situational exposure assessment information to evaluate potential public health risk associated with environmental contaminants.

Iridoschisis: high frequency ultrasound imaging. Evidence for a genetic defect?

PubMed Central

Danias, J; Aslanides, I M; Eichenbaum, J W; Silverman, R H; Reinstein, D Z; Coleman, D J

1996-01-01

AIMS: To elucidate changes in the anatomy of the anterior chamber associated with iridoschisis, a rare form of iris atrophy, and their potential contribution to angle closure glaucoma. METHODS: Both eyes of a 71-year-old woman with bilateral iridoschisis and fibrous dysplasia and her asymptomatic 50-year-old daughter were scanned with a very high frequency (50 MHz) ultrasound system. RESULTS: The symptomatic patient exhibited diffuse changes in the iris stoma with an intact posterior iris pigmented layer in both eyes. These changes were clinically compatible with the lack of iris transillumination defects. Additionally, iris bowing with a resultant narrowing of the angle occurred. The asymptomatic daughter showed discrete, but less severe iris stromal changes. CONCLUSION: This is the first detailed study of high frequency ultrasonic imaging of the iris in iridoschisis. The observed structural changes suggest angle narrowing by forward bowing of the anterior iris stroma may be a mechanism of IOP elevation in this condition. The ultrasonic detection of iris changes in the asymptomatic daughter of the symptomatic patient and the association of iridoschisis with fibrous dysplasia suggest a possible genetic component in the pathogenesis of this condition. Images PMID:9059271

Iris-based medical analysis by geometric deformation features.

PubMed

Ma, Lin; Zhang, D; Li, Naimin; Cai, Yan; Zuo, Wangmeng; Wang, Kuanguan

2013-01-01

Iris analysis studies the relationship between human health and changes in the anatomy of the iris. Apart from the fact that iris recognition focuses on modeling the overall structure of the iris, iris diagnosis emphasizes the detecting and analyzing of local variations in the characteristics of irises. This paper focuses on studying the geometrical structure changes in irises that are caused by gastrointestinal diseases, and on measuring the observable deformations in the geometrical structures of irises that are related to roundness, diameter and other geometric forms of the pupil and the collarette. Pupil and collarette based features are defined and extracted. A series of experiments are implemented on our experimental pathological iris database, including manual clustering of both normal and pathological iris images, manual classification by non-specialists, manual classification by individuals with a medical background, classification ability verification for the proposed features, and disease recognition by applying the proposed features. The results prove the effectiveness and clinical diagnostic significance of the proposed features and a reliable recognition performance for automatic disease diagnosis. Our research results offer a novel systematic perspective for iridology studies and promote the progress of both theoretical and practical work in iris diagnosis.

Iris: Constructing and Analyzing Spectral Energy Distributions with the Virtual Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laurino, O.; Budynkiewicz, J.; Busko, I.; Cresitello-Dittmar, M.; D'Abrusco, R.; Doe, S.; Evans, J.; Pevunova, O.

2014-05-01

We present Iris 2.0, the latest release of the Virtual Astronomical Observatory application for building and analyzing Spectral Energy Distributions (SEDs). With Iris, users may read in and display SEDs inspect and edit any selection of SED data, fit models to SEDs in arbitrary spectral ranges, and calculate confidence limits on best-fit parameters. SED data may be loaded into the application from VOTable and FITS files compliant with the International Virtual Observatoy Alliance interoperable data models, or retrieved directly from NED or the Italian Space Agency Science Data Center; data in non-standard formats may also be converted within the application. Users may seamlessy exchange data between Iris and other Virtual Observatoy tools using the Simple Application Messaging Protocol. Iris 2.0 also provides a tool for redshifting, interpolating, and measuring integratd fluxes, and allows simple aperture corrections for individual points and SED segments. Custom Python functions, template models and template libraries may be imported into Iris for fitting SEDs. Iris may be extended through Java plugins; users can install third-party packages, or develop their own plugin using Iris' Software Development Kit. Iris 2.0 is available for Linux and Mac OS X systems.

Eclipse-Free-Time Assessment Tool for IRIS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eagle, David

2012-01-01

IRIS_EFT is a scientific simulation that can be used to perform an Eclipse-Free- Time (EFT) assessment of IRIS (Infrared Imaging Surveyor) mission orbits. EFT is defined to be those time intervals longer than one day during which the IRIS spacecraft is not in the Earth s shadow. Program IRIS_EFT implements a special perturbation of orbital motion to numerically integrate Cowell's form of the system of differential equations. Shadow conditions are predicted by embedding this integrator within Brent s method for finding the root of a nonlinear equation. The IRIS_EFT software models the effects of the following types of orbit perturbations on the long-term evolution and shadow characteristics of IRIS mission orbits. (1) Non-spherical Earth gravity, (2) Atmospheric drag, (3) Point-mass gravity of the Sun, and (4) Point-mass gravity of the Moon. The objective of this effort was to create an in-house computer program that would perform eclipse-free-time analysis. of candidate IRIS spacecraft mission orbits in an accurate and timely fashion. The software is a suite of Fortran subroutines and data files organized as a "computational" engine that is used to accurately predict the long-term orbit evolution of IRIS mission orbits while searching for Earth shadow conditions.

IRIS TOXICOLOGICAL REVIEW AND SUMMARY DOCUMENTS FOR 1,2,3-TRICHLOROPROPANE

EPA Science Inventory

EPA's assessment of the noncancer health effects and carcinogenic potential of 1,2,3-trichloropropane (TCP) was added to the IRIS database in 1990. The IRIS program is updating the IRIS assessment for TCP. This update will incorporate health effects information published since t...

75 FR 28856 - Agency Information Collection (IRIS) Activities Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-24

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0619] Agency Information Collection (IRIS... Information System (IRIS). OMB Control Number: 2900-0619. Type of Review: Extension of a currently approved... veterans, dependents, and active duty personnel worldwide. IRIS allows a customer to submit questions...

75 FR 13208 - Proposed Information Collection (IRIS) Activity; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-18

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0619] Proposed Information Collection (IRIS... submitted to VA through the Inquiry Routing and Information System (IRIS). DATES: Written comments and... (IRIS), VA Form 0873. OMB Control Number: 2900-0619. Type of Review: Extension of a currently approved...

Implantation of ArtificialIris, a CustomFlex irisprosthesis, in a trauma patient with an Artisan lens

PubMed Central

Doroodgar, Farideh; Jabbarvand, Mahmoud; Niazi, Feizollah; Niazi, Sana; Sanginabadi, Azad

2017-01-01

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate probable complications of ArtificialIris implantation with iris fixated intraocular lens. Method: Development of photophobia, glare, and psychological strain during face-to-face communication in a 23-year-old man with a widespread traumatic iris defect terminate to make a decision for performing implantation of an ArtificialIris (Humanoptics, Erlangen, Germany) under the remnant iris without removing the patient's existing Artisan lens. Results: Without any intraoperative or postoperative complications, the patient's visual acuity increased by 1 line, the endothelial cell loss was comparable with the cell loss associated with standard cataract surgery, and the anterior-chamber depth and anterior-chamber anatomy did not change. At the final follow-up examination, the mean intraocular pressure did not differ from baseline, and we achieved high level of patient satisfaction and subjective vision improvement. We discuss the particular importance of considering the patient's expectations, the appropriate measurements, ways to perfect color evaluation, and the types of ArtificialIris products. Conclusion: The implantation of the ArtificialIris in patients with aphakic iris-supported lenses (ie, pre-existing Artisan lenses) is a feasible approach and a useful option for patients with thin irises and iris hypoplasia who are at risk of subluxation or the dislocation of the posterior-chamber intraocular lens (PCIOL), and also those with sclerally fixed PCIOLs. PMID:29137026

Qualitative Assessment of Ultrasound Biomicroscopic Images Using Standard Photographs: The Liwan Eye Study

PubMed Central

Jiang, Yuzhen; Huang, Wenyong; Huang, Qunxiao; Zhang, Jian; Foster, Paul J.

2010-01-01

Objective. To classify anatomic features related to anterior chamber angles by a qualitative assessment system based on ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) images. Methods. Cases of primary angle-closure suspect (PACS), defined by pigmented trabecular meshwork that is not visible in two or more quadrants on static gonioscopy (cases) and systematically selected subjects (1 of every 10) who did not meet this criterion (controls) were enrolled during a population-based survey in Guangzhou, China. All subjects underwent UBM examination. A set of standard UBM images was used to qualitatively classify anatomic features related to the angle configuration, including iris thickness, iris convexity, iris angulation, ciliary body size, and ciliary process position. All analysis was conducted on right eye images. Results. Based on the qualitative grades, the difference in overall iris thickness between gonioscopically narrow eyes (n = 117) and control eyes (n = 57) was not statistically significant. The peripheral one third of the iris tended to be thicker in all quadrants of the PACS eyes, although the difference was statistically significant only in the superior quadrant (P = 0.008). No significant differences were found in the qualitative classifications of iris insertion, iris angulation, ciliary body size, and ciliary process position. The findings were similar when compared with the control group of eyes with wide angles in all quadrants. Conclusions. Basal iris thickness seems to be more relevant to narrow angle configuration than to overall iris thickness. Otherwise, the anterior rotation and size of the ciliary body, the iris insertion, and the overall iris thickness are comparable in narrow- and wide-angle eyes. PMID:19834039

The concave iris in pigment dispersion syndrome.

PubMed

Liu, Lance; Ong, Ee Lin; Crowston, Jonathan

2011-01-01

To visualize the changes of the iris contour in patients with pigment dispersion syndrome after blinking, accommodation, and pharmacologic miosis using anterior segment optical coherence tomography. Observational case series. A total of 33 eyes of 20 patients with pigment dispersion syndrome. Each eye was imaged along the horizontal 0- to 180-degree meridian using the Visante Anterior Segment Imaging System (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA). Scans were performed at baseline and after focusing on an internal fixation target for 5 minutes, forced blinking, accommodation, and pharmacologic miosis with pilocarpine 2%. Quantitative analysis of the changes in the iris configuration. After 5 minutes of continual fixation, the iris became planar with the mean ± standard deviation curvature decreasing from 214 ± 74 μm to 67 ± 76 μm (P < 0.05). The iris remained planar in all patients with pigment dispersion syndrome after forced blinking, but the iris concavity recovered to 227 ± 113 μm (P = 0.34) and 238 ± 119 μm (P = 0.19) with the -3.0 and -6.0 diopter lenses, respectively. Pilocarpine-induced miosis caused the iris to assume a planar configuration in all subjects. This study shows that the iris in pigment dispersion syndrome assumes a planar configuration when fixating and that the concavity of the iris surface is not restored by blinking. Accommodation restored the iris concavity, suggesting that the posterior curvature of the iris in pigment dispersion syndrome is induced and probably maintained, at least in part, by accommodation. Copyright © 2011 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Qualitative evaluation of the iris and ciliary body by ultrasound biomicroscopy in subjects with angle closure.

PubMed

Ku, Judy Y; Nongpiur, Monisha E; Park, Judy; Narayanaswamy, Arun K; Perera, Shamira A; Tun, Tin A; Kumar, Rajesh S; Baskaran, Mani; Aung, Tin

2014-12-01

To qualitatively analyze anterior chamber structures imaged by ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) in primary angle-closure patients. Subjects diagnosed as primary angle-closure suspect (PACS), primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG), and previous acute primary angle closure (APAC) were recruited prospectively along with a group of normal controls. UBM was performed under standardized dark room conditions and qualitative assessment was carried out using a set of reference photographs of standard UBM images to categorize the various anatomic features related to angle configuration. These included overall and basal iris thicknesses, iris convexity, iris angulation, ciliary body size, and ciliary sulcus. A total of 60 PACS, 114 PACG, 41 APAC, and 33 normal controls were included. Patients were predominantly older Chinese females. After controlling the confounding effect of age and sex, eyes with overall thicker irides [medium odds ratio (OR) 3.58, thick OR 2.84] when compared with thin irides have a significantly higher likelihood of having PACS/PACG/APAC versus controls. Thicker basal iris component (medium OR 4.13, thick OR 3.39) also have higher likelihood of having angle closure when compared with thin basal iris thickness. Subjects with basal iris insertion, mild iris angulation, and large ciliary body have a higher OR of having angle closure. In contrast, the presence/absence of a ciliary sulcus did not influence the likelihood of angle closure. Eyes with thicker overall and basal iris thicknesses are more likely to have angle closure than controls. Other features that increase the likelihood of angle closure include basal iris insertion, mild iris angulation, and large ciliary body.

TREATMENT WITH THIDIAZURON IMPROVES OPENING AND VASE LIFE OF IRIS FLOWERS

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The marketability of Dutch iris (Iris × hollandica) cut flowers is limited by their short display life and frequent failure to open fully. We tested the ability of thidiazuron (TDZ), a phenyl urea compound with cytokinin-like activity, to improve iris flower opening and longevity. A postharvest pu...

Massive spontaneous choroidal hemorrhage in a patient with chronic renal failure and coronary artery disease treated with Plavix.

PubMed

De Marco, Rocco; Aurilia, Pasquale; Mele, Alessandro

2009-01-01

To report a case of massive spontaneous choroidal hemorrhage in a patient with chronic renal failure and coronary artery disease treated with clopidogrel bisulfate (Plavix). Case report. A 75-year-old man presented with pain and loss of vision in the left eye for 1 week. His medical history was remarkable for systemic hypertension, chronic renal failure, and artery coronary disease. For 6 months, he had been taking 75 mg/day of Plavix after coronary angioplasty. Ocular examination revealed the patient to be in angle closure. Ultrasonography and computed tomography scan revealed a massive choroidal hemorrhage pushing the iris-lens diaphragm forward. Pain and intraocular pressure were treated successfully with evacuative sclerotomies, but the final exitus after 6 months was bulbar phthisis. Massive spontaneous choroidal hemorrhage is an extremely rare event that usually has been described in older patients (65-87 years old) receiving anticoagulants or thrombolytic agents. Systemic hypertension, generalized atherosclerosis, and age-related macular degeneration are additional risk factors. In the present case, massive choroidal hemorrhage was associated with use of clopidogrel bisulfate (Plavix) in a patient with chronic renal failure. Our report indicates that Plavix should be administered with caution in patients with chronic renal failure owing to the risk of serious choroidal bleeding. Chronic renal failure should be also included in the list of risk factors for massive spontaneous choroidal hemorrhage. Evacuative sclerotomies may have value in the relief of pain and elevated intraocular pressure but has not been shown to be beneficial in visual and anatomic outcomes.

Thirty Years Supporting Portable Arrays: The IRIS Passcal Instrument Center

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beaudoin, B. C.; Anderson, K. R.; Bilek, S. L.; Woodward, R.

2014-12-01

Thirty years have passed since establishment of the IRIS Program for the Array Seismic Studies of the Continental Lithosphere (PASSCAL). PASSCAL was part of a coordinated plan proposed to the National Science Foundation (NSF) defining the instrumentation, data collection and management structure to support a wide range of research in seismology. The PASSCAL program has surpassed the early goal of 6000 data acquisition channels with a current inventory of instrumentation capable of imaging from the near surface to the inner core. Here we present the evolution of the PASSCAL program from instrument depot to full service community resource. PASSCAL has supported close to 1100 PI driven seismic experiments since its inception. Instruments from PASSCAL have covered the globe and have contributed over 7400 SEED stations and 242 assembled data sets to the IRIS Data Management Center in Seattle. Since the combination in 1998 of the Stanford and Lamont instrument centers into the single PASSCAL Instrument Center (PIC) at New Mexico Tech, the facility has grown in scope by adding the EarthScope Array Operations Facility in 2005, the incorporation of the EarthScope Flexible Array, and a Polar support group in 2006. The polar support group enhances portable seismic experiments in extremely harsh polar environments and also extends to special projects such as the Greenland Ice Sheet Monitoring Network (GLISN) and the recent development effort for Geophysical Earth Observatory for Ice Covered Environments (GEOICE). Through these support efforts the PIC has established itself as a resource for field practices, engineered solutions for autonomous seismic stations, and a pioneer in successful seismic recording in polar environments. We are on the cusp of a new generation of instrumentation driven in part by the academic community's desire to record unaliased wavefields in multiple frequency bands and industry's interest in utilizing lower frequency data. As part of the recently funded IRIS proposal to NSF for support of Seismological Facilities for the Advancement of Geoscience and EarthScope (SAGE), IRIS is developing plans for this new instrumentation that will ensure that the PASSCAL program continues to provide state-of-the-art observing capabilities into the coming decades.

Improving the healthcare response to domestic violence and abuse in sexual health clinics: feasibility study of a training, support and referral intervention.

PubMed

Sohal, Alex Hardip; Pathak, Neha; Blake, Sarah; Apea, Vanessa; Berry, Judith; Bailey, Jayne; Griffiths, Chris; Feder, Gene

2018-03-01

Sexual health and gynaecological problems are the most consistent and largest physical health differences between abused and non-abused female populations. Sexual health services are well placed to identify and support patients experiencing domestic violence and abuse (DVA). Most sexual health professionals have had minimal DVA training despite English National Institute for Health and Care Excellence recommendations. We sought to determine the feasibility of an evidence-based complex DVA training intervention in female sexual health walk-in services (IRIS ADViSE: Identification and Referral to Improve Safety whilst Assessing Domestic Violence in Sexual Health Environments). An adaptive mixed method pilot study in the female walk-in service of two sexual health clinics. Following implementation and evaluation at site 1, the intervention was refined before implementation at site 2. The intervention comprised electronic prompts, multidisciplinary training sessions, clinic materials and simple referral pathways to IRIS ADViSE advocate-educators (AEs). The pilot lasted 7 weeks at site 1 and 12 weeks at site 2. Feasibility outcomes were to assign a supportive DVA clinical lead, an IRIS ADViSE AE employed by a local DVA service provider, adapt electronic records, develop local referral pathways, assess whether enquiry, identification and referral rates were measurable. Both sites achieved all feasibility outcomes: appointing a supportive DVA clinical lead and IRIS ADViSE AE, establishing links with a local DVA provider, adapting electronic records, developing local referral pathways and rates of enquiry, identification and referral were found to be measurable. Site 1: 10% enquiry rate (n=267), 4% identification rate (n=16) and eight AE referrals. Site 2: 61% enquiry rate (n=1090), a 7% identification rate (n=79) and eight AE referrals. IRIS ADViSE can be successfully developed and implemented in sexual health clinics. It fulfils the unmet need for DVA training. Longer-term evaluation is recommended. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Immortalization of cat iris sphincter smooth muscle cells by SV40 virus: growth, morphological, biochemical and pharmacological characteristics.

PubMed

Ocklind, A; Yousufzai, S Y; Ghosh, S; Coca-Prados, M; St Jernschantz, J; Abdel-Latif, A A

1995-11-01

The purpose of this study was to establish immortalized cell cultures of cat iris sphincter smooth muscle cells for a model investigating ocular receptors and their signal transduction pathways. Cultured cat iris sphincter muscle cells were immortalized by viral transformation with SV40 virus and the morphological and immunocytochemical properties of the normal and immortalized cells were investigated. The transformed cell clone, SV-CISM-2, was further characterized biochemically and pharmacologically. The normal muscle cells showed characteristics of smooth muscle cells, as judged by their growth and the presence of smooth muscle alpha-actin and desmin. After seven passages the normal cells ceased to proliferate. In contrast, the immortalized cells retained their proliferative ability for more than 220 population doublings over 55 passages. The transformation phenotype in these cells was confirmed by their expression of the large T-antigen, the incorporation of viral DNA into cellular DNA, growth in agarose and in low-serum medium, and complete loss of contact inhibition. The immortalized cells expressed smooth muscle alpha-actin, desmin and MLC protein. Biochemical and pharmacological studies on the SV-CISM cells revealed the presence of several functional receptors including muscarinic cholinergic, beta-adrenergic, peptidergic (substance P and endothelin). Platelet-activating factor, and prostaglandin (PG). Muscarinic stimulation of these cells resulted in: (a) a dose-dependent increase in the release of arachidonic acid (AA) and (PGs) and enhancement in the production of inositol trisphosphate (IP3); and (b) a substantial increase in MLC phosphorylation (118%), an indicator of smooth muscle contractility. The stimulatory effects of carbachol on these responses were completely blocked by atropine, a muscarinic receptor antagonist. This study constitutes the first successful immortalization of iris sphincter smooth muscle cells. The SV-CISM-2 cells can serve as an important model system for investigations on the biochemical and pharmacological properties of receptors and their signal transduction pathways in smooth muscle. The advantage of these cells over normal iris sphincter cells is that they can be propagated over many generations without alterations in their morphological, biochemical and physiological characteristics.

Comments on the CASIA version 1.0 iris data set.

PubMed

Phillips, P Jonathon; Bowyer, Kevin W; Flynn, Patrick J

2007-10-01

We note that the images in the CASIA version 1.0 iris dataset have been edited so that the pupil area is replaced by a circular region of uniform intensity. We recommend that this dataset is no longer used in iris biometrics research, unless there this a compelling reason that takes into account the nature of the images. In addition, based on our experience with the Iris Challenge Evaluation (ICE) 2005 technology development project, we make recommendations for reporting results of iris recognition experiments.

Computational cameras for moving iris recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McCloskey, Scott; Venkatesha, Sharath

2015-05-01

Iris-based biometric identification is increasingly used for facility access and other security applications. Like all methods that exploit visual information, however, iris systems are limited by the quality of captured images. Optical defocus due to a small depth of field (DOF) is one such challenge, as is the acquisition of sharply-focused iris images from subjects in motion. This manuscript describes the application of computational motion-deblurring cameras to the problem of moving iris capture, from the underlying theory to system considerations and performance data.

Pediatric ocular injury secondary to a Burmese python bite.

PubMed

Behrens, Alice W; Jones, Maria H; Lowery, R Scott

2018-03-22

We report the case of a 6-year-old girl with a penetrating ocular injury caused by a Burmese python. She received intravenous cefazolin before presenting and was treated thereafter with daily topical antibiotics and atropine. Six weeks after injury, she underwent cataract extraction and sulcus implantation of an intraocular lens and iris synechiolysis, with postoperative patching. Final visual outcome was excellent despite no globe repair was performed. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Waardenburg syndrome: A rare genetic disorder, a report of two cases

PubMed Central

Kumar, Sudesh; Rao, Kiran

2012-01-01

Waardenburg syndrome (WS) is a rare genetic disorder. Patients have heterochromia or eyes with iris of different color, increased inter-canthal distance, distopia canthorum, pigmentation anomalies, and varying degree of deafness. It usually follows autosomal dominant pattern. In this report, two cases have been discussed but no familial history of WS has been found. Counseling of the patient is necessary and cases of irreversible deafness have been treated. PMID:23162308

2014 Summer Series - Robert Carvalho - Pursuing the Mysteries of the Sun: The IRIS Mission

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-06-19

Pursuing the Mysteries of the Sun: The Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) Mission. Flight controllers from the IRIS mission will present their individual experiences on IRIS from development through the first year of flight. This will begin with a discussion of the unique nature of IRIS's mission and science, and how it fits into NASA's fleet of solar observatories. Next will be a discussion of the critical roles Ames contributed in the mission including spacecraft and flight software development, ground system development, and training for launch. This will be followed by experiences from launch, early operations, ongoing operations, and unusual operations experiences. The presentation will close with IRIS science imagery and questions.

An Improved Iris Recognition Algorithm Based on Hybrid Feature and ELM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Juan

2018-03-01

The iris image is easily polluted by noise and uneven light. This paper proposed an improved extreme learning machine (ELM) based iris recognition algorithm with hybrid feature. 2D-Gabor filters and GLCM is employed to generate a multi-granularity hybrid feature vector. 2D-Gabor filter and GLCM feature work for capturing low-intermediate frequency and high frequency texture information, respectively. Finally, we utilize extreme learning machine for iris recognition. Experimental results reveal our proposed ELM based multi-granularity iris recognition algorithm (ELM-MGIR) has higher accuracy of 99.86%, and lower EER of 0.12% under the premise of real-time performance. The proposed ELM-MGIR algorithm outperforms other mainstream iris recognition algorithms.

Applications of the IRI in Southern Africa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coetzee, P. J.

2004-01-01

The IRI forms the basis of the Single Site Location Direction Finding networks of the South African Defence Force as well as theNational Intelligence Agency. It is also used in "Path Analysis" applications where the possible transmitter coverage is calculated. Another application of the IRI is in HF frequency predictions, especially for the South African Defence Force involved in peace keeping duties in Africa. The IRI is either used independently or in conjunction with vertical ionosondes. In the latter case the scaled F2 peak parameters (foF2, hmF2) are used as inputs to the IRI. The IRI thus gets "calibrated" to extend the area covered by the ionosonde(s). The IRI has proved to be a very important tool in South Africa and Africa in the fight against crime, drug trafficking, political instability and maintaining the peace in potentially unstable countries.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Benzo[a]pyrene (Interagency ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

On August 21, 2013, the draft Toxicological Review of Benzo[a]pyrene and the draft charge to external peer reviewers were released for public review and comment. The Toxicological Review and charge were reviewed internally by EPA and by other federal agencies and White House Offices before public release. Consistent with the May 2009 IRIS assessment development process, all written comments on IRIS assessments submitted by other federal agencies and White House Offices are made publicly available. Accordingly, interagency comments and the interagency science consultation materials provided to other agencies, including interagency review drafts of the IRIS Toxicological Review of Benzo[a]pyrene and the charge to external peer reviewers, are posted on this site. EPA is undertaking an update of the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for benzo[a]pyrene (BaP). The outcome of this project is an updated Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary for BaP that will be entered into the IRIS database.

Challenges in diagnosis and management of Cryptococcal immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) in resource limited settings.

PubMed

Musubire, A K; Meya, B D; Mayanja-Kizza, H; Lukande, R; Wiesner, L D; Bohjanen, P; R Boulware, R D

2012-06-01

In many resource-limited settings, cryptococcal meningitis (CM) contributes up to 20% of all deaths with further complications due to Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome (IRIS). We present a case report on a patient who developed CM-IRIS and then subsequent CM-relapse with a fluconazole-resistant organism and then later CM-IRIS once again, manifesting as cystic cryptococcomas, hydrocephalus, and sterile CSF. In this case we, demonstrate that CM-IRIS and persistent low level cryptococcal infection are not mutually exclusive phenomena. The management of IRIS with corticosteroids may increase the risk of culture positive CM-relapse which may further increase the risk of recurrent IRIS and resulting complications including death. We also highlight the role of imaging and fluconazole resistance testing in patients with recurrent meningitis and the importance of CSF cultures in guiding treatment decisions.

Optimal wavelength band clustering for multispectral iris recognition.

PubMed

Gong, Yazhuo; Zhang, David; Shi, Pengfei; Yan, Jingqi

2012-07-01

This work explores the possibility of clustering spectral wavelengths based on the maximum dissimilarity of iris textures. The eventual goal is to determine how many bands of spectral wavelengths will be enough for iris multispectral fusion and to find these bands that will provide higher performance of iris multispectral recognition. A multispectral acquisition system was first designed for imaging the iris at narrow spectral bands in the range of 420 to 940 nm. Next, a set of 60 human iris images that correspond to the right and left eyes of 30 different subjects were acquired for an analysis. Finally, we determined that 3 clusters were enough to represent the 10 feature bands of spectral wavelengths using the agglomerative clustering based on two-dimensional principal component analysis. The experimental results suggest (1) the number, center, and composition of clusters of spectral wavelengths and (2) the higher performance of iris multispectral recognition based on a three wavelengths-bands fusion.

IRIS Assessment Plan for Ammonia and Ammonium Salts Noncancer Oral (Scoping and Problem Formulation Materials)

EPA Science Inventory

In April 2018, EPA released the draft IRIS Assessment Plan for Ammonia and Ammonium Salts Noncancer Oral. An IRIS Assessment Plan (IAP) communicates to the public the plan for assessing each individual chemical and includes summary information on the IRIS Program’s sco...

78 FR 53138 - Notice of Extension of Public Comment Period on the Draft IRIS Carcinogenicity Assessment for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-28

... Extension of Public Comment Period on the Draft IRIS Carcinogenicity Assessment for Ethylene Oxide and Addition of Ethylene Oxide to October IRIS Bimonthly Meeting Agenda AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency... Ethylene Oxide to October IRIS Bimonthly Meeting Agenda. SUMMARY: EPA is announcing an extension of the...

Cross-sensor iris recognition through kernel learning.

PubMed

Pillai, Jaishanker K; Puertas, Maria; Chellappa, Rama

2014-01-01

Due to the increasing popularity of iris biometrics, new sensors are being developed for acquiring iris images and existing ones are being continuously upgraded. Re-enrolling users every time a new sensor is deployed is expensive and time-consuming, especially in applications with a large number of enrolled users. However, recent studies show that cross-sensor matching, where the test samples are verified using data enrolled with a different sensor, often lead to reduced performance. In this paper, we propose a machine learning technique to mitigate the cross-sensor performance degradation by adapting the iris samples from one sensor to another. We first present a novel optimization framework for learning transformations on iris biometrics. We then utilize this framework for sensor adaptation, by reducing the distance between samples of the same class, and increasing it between samples of different classes, irrespective of the sensors acquiring them. Extensive evaluations on iris data from multiple sensors demonstrate that the proposed method leads to improvement in cross-sensor recognition accuracy. Furthermore, since the proposed technique requires minimal changes to the iris recognition pipeline, it can easily be incorporated into existing iris recognition systems.

Mycobacterial Antigen Driven Activation of CD14++CD16− Monocytes Is a Predictor of Tuberculosis-Associated Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome

PubMed Central

Andrade, Bruno B.; Singh, Amrit; Narendran, Gopalan; Schechter, Melissa E.; Nayak, Kaustuv; Subramanian, Sudha; Anbalagan, Selvaraj; Jensen, Stig M. R.; Porter, Brian O.; Antonelli, Lis R.; Wilkinson, Katalin A.; Wilkinson, Robert J.; Meintjes, Graeme; van der Plas, Helen; Follmann, Dean; Barber, Daniel L.; Swaminathan, Soumya; Sher, Alan; Sereti, Irini

2014-01-01

Paradoxical tuberculosis-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (TB-IRIS) is an aberrant inflammatory response occurring in a subset of TB-HIV co-infected patients initiating anti-retroviral therapy (ART). Here, we examined monocyte activation by prospectively quantitating pro-inflammatory plasma markers and monocyte subsets in TB-HIV co-infected patients from a South Indian cohort at baseline and following ART initiation at the time of IRIS, or at equivalent time points in non-IRIS controls. Pro-inflammatory biomarkers of innate and myeloid cell activation were increased in plasma of IRIS patients pre-ART and at the time of IRIS; this association was confirmed in a second cohort in South Africa. Increased expression of these markers correlated with elevated antigen load as measured by higher sputum culture grade and shorter duration of anti-TB therapy. Phenotypic analysis revealed the frequency of CD14++CD16− monocytes was an independent predictor of TB-IRIS, and was closely associated with plasma levels of CRP, TNF, IL-6 and tissue factor during IRIS. In addition, production of inflammatory cytokines by monocytes was higher in IRIS patients compared to controls pre-ART. These data point to a major role of mycobacterial antigen load and myeloid cell hyperactivation in the pathogenesis of TB-IRIS, and implicate monocytes and monocyte-derived cytokines as potential targets for TB-IRIS prevention or treatment. PMID:25275318

Double hump sign in indentation gonioscopy is correlated with presence of plateau iris configuration regardless of patent iridotomy.

PubMed

Kiuchi, Yoshiaki; Kanamoto, Takashi; Nakamura, Takao

2009-02-01

A plateau iris is one of the clinical forms of angle closure glaucoma. In patients with a patent iridotomy, the double hump sign detected during indentation gonioscopy has been reported to indicate the existence of a plateau iris configuration. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the double hump sign is correlated with the presence of the plateau iris syndrome regardless of the patency of the iridotomy. Five women and 3 men without a patent iridotomy presented with narrow angles on gonioscopy and a double hump sign on indentation gonioscopy. Ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) imaging was performed to determine the etiology of the narrow angle and double hump sign, and to determine the appropriate treatment to prevent the progression of visual field damage. Ten patients with narrow angles and without a double hump sign were also examined by UBM to serve as a control group. All 8 patients who showed double hump sign had a short iris root, which was inserted anterior to the ciliary face, a typical anatomic appearance of a plateau iris. On the other hand, only 1 eye of 10 eyes in control group appeared to have a plateau iris. A double hump sign observed on indentation gonioscopy is strongly correlated with the presence of a plateau iris, and therefore a useful indicator of a plateau iris configuration regardless of the patency of a laser iridotomy. Thus, a plateau iris configuration can be detected without using a UBM in many cases.

Potential roles for BMP and Pax genes in the development of iris smooth muscle.

PubMed

Jensen, Abbie M

2005-02-01

The embryonic optic cup generates four types of tissue: neural retina, pigmented epithelium, ciliary epithelium, and iris smooth muscle. Remarkably little attention has focused on the development of the iris smooth muscle since Lewis ([1903] J. Am. Anat. 2:405-416) described its origins from the anterior rim of the optic cup neuroepithelium. As an initial step toward understanding iris smooth muscle development, I first determined the spatial and temporal pattern of the development of the iris smooth muscle in the chick by using the HNK1 antibody, which labels developing iris smooth muscle. HNK1 labeling shows that iris smooth muscle development is correlated in time and space with the development of the ciliary epithelial folds. Second, because neural crest is the only other neural tissue that has been shown to generate smooth muscle (Le Lievre and Le Douarin [1975] J. Embryo. Exp. Morphol. 34:125-154), I sought to determine whether iris smooth muscle development shares similarities with neural crest development. Two members of the BMP superfamily, BMP4 and BMP7, which may regulate neural crest development, are highly expressed by cells at the site of iris smooth muscle generation. Third, because humans and mice that are heterozygous for Pax6 mutations have no irides (Hill et al. [1991] Nature 354:522-525; Hanson et al. [1994] Nat. Genet. 6:168-173), I determined the expression of Pax6. I also examined the expression of Pax3 in the developing anterior optic cup. The developing iris smooth muscle coexpresses Pax6 and Pax3. I suggest that some of the eye defects caused by mutations in Pax6, BMP4, and BMP7 may be due to abnormal iris smooth muscle. Copyright 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Irigenin sensitizes TRAIL-induced apoptosis via enhancing pro-apoptotic molecules in gastric cancer cells.

PubMed

Xu, Ying; Gao, Cheng-Cheng; Pan, Zhen-Guo; Zhou, Chuan-Wen

2018-02-12

Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) holds promising value for cancer therapy due to its capacity to induce apoptosis in cancer cells. Nevertheless, TRAIL therapy is greatly hampered by its resistance. Irigenin (Iri), isoflavonoids, can be isolated from the rhizome of Belamcanda chinensis, and has been shown anti-cancer properties. In this study, we explored if Iri could enhance TRAIL-regulated apoptosis in TRAIL resistant gastric cancer cells. Iri significantly potentiated TRAIL-triggered cytotoxicity. Iri alone and TRAIL alone showed no effective role in apoptosis induction, whereas combined treatment with Iri and TRAIL markedly induced apoptosis in cancer cells, as evidenced by the up-regulation of cleaved Caspase-8/-9/-3 and PARP. Additionally, the sensitization to TRAIL was along with the enhancement of pro-apoptotic proteins, including FAS-associated protein with death domain (FADD), death receptor 5 (DR5) and Bax. And suppressing FADD, DR5 and Bax by si RNA significantly reduced the apoptosis and enhanced the cell viability induced by the co-application of Iri and TRAIL. Moreover, the sensitization to TRAIL was accompanied by the decrease of Cellular-FLICE inhibitory protein (c-FLIP), Bcl-2 and Survivin. Additionally, Iri could sensitize TRAIL to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). Pre-treatment of N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC), ROS scavenger, attenuated Iri plus TRAIL-induced apoptosis and improved cell viability. Finally, combination of Iri and TRAIL inhibited tumor growth in the xenograft model. Collectively, our present study gave new insights into the effects of Iri on potentiating TRAIL-sensitivity, and suggested that Iri could be a potential candidate for sensitizer of TRAIL-resistant cancer cell treatment. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Real-time image restoration for iris recognition systems.

PubMed

Kang, Byung Jun; Park, Kang Ryoung

2007-12-01

In the field of biometrics, it has been reported that iris recognition techniques have shown high levels of accuracy because unique patterns of the human iris, which has very many degrees of freedom, are used. However, because conventional iris cameras have small depth-of-field (DOF) areas, input iris images can easily be blurred, which can lead to lower recognition performance, since iris patterns are transformed by the blurring caused by optical defocusing. To overcome these problems, an autofocusing camera can be used. However, this inevitably increases the cost, size, and complexity of the system. Therefore, we propose a new real-time iris image-restoration method, which can increase the camera's DOF without requiring any additional hardware. This paper presents five novelties as compared to previous works: 1) by excluding eyelash and eyelid regions, it is possible to obtain more accurate focus scores from input iris images; 2) the parameter of the point spread function (PSF) can be estimated in terms of camera optics and measured focus scores; therefore, parameter estimation is more accurate than it has been in previous research; 3) because the PSF parameter can be obtained by using a predetermined equation, iris image restoration can be done in real-time; 4) by using a constrained least square (CLS) restoration filter that considers noise, performance can be greatly enhanced; and 5) restoration accuracy can also be enhanced by estimating the weight value of the noise-regularization term of the CLS filter according to the amount of image blurring. Experimental results showed that iris recognition errors when using the proposed restoration method were greatly reduced as compared to those results achieved without restoration or those achieved using previous iris-restoration methods.

Paradoxical Tuberculosis Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome (TB-IRIS) in HIV Patients with Culture Confirmed Pulmonary Tuberculosis in India and the Potential Role of IL-6 in Prediction

PubMed Central

Porter, Brian O.; Chandrasekhar, Chockalingam; Venkatesan, Perumal; Menon, Pradeep A.; Subramanian, Sudha; Anbalagan, Selvaraj; Bhavani, Kannabiran P.; Sekar, Sathiyavelu; Padmapriyadarshini, Chandrasekaran; Kumar, Satagopan; Ravichandran, Narayanan; Raja, Krishnaraj; Bhanu, Kesavamurthy; Mahilmaran, Ayyamperumal; Sekar, Lakshmanan; Sher, Alan; Sereti, Irini; Swaminathan, Soumya

2013-01-01

Background The incidence, manifestations, outcome and clinical predictors of paradoxical TB-IRIS in patients with HIV and culture confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) in India have not been studied prospectively. Methods HIV+ patients with culture confirmed PTB started on anti-tuberculosis therapy (ATT) were followed prospectively after anti-retroviral therapy (ART) initiation. Established criteria for IRIS diagnosis were used including decline in plasma HIV RNA at IRIS event. Pre-ART plasma levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to evaluate associations between baseline variables and IRIS. Results Of 57 patients enrolled, 48 had complete follow up data. Median ATT-ART interval was 28 days (interquartile range, IQR 14–47). IRIS events occurred in 26 patients (54.2%) at a median of 11 days (IQR: 7–16) after ART initiation. Corticosteroids were required for treatment of most IRIS events that resolved within a median of 13 days (IQR: 9–23). Two patients died due to CNS TB-IRIS. Lower CD4+ T-cell counts, higher plasma HIV RNA levels, lower CD4/CD8 ratio, lower hemoglobin, shorter ATT to ART interval, extra-pulmonary or miliary TB and higher plasma IL-6 and CRP levels at baseline were associated with paradoxical TB-IRIS in the univariate analysis. Shorter ATT to ART interval, lower hemoglobin and higher IL-6 and CRP levels remained significant in the multivariate analysis. Conclusion Paradoxical TB–IRIS frequently complicates HIV-TB therapy in India. IL-6 and CRP may assist in predicting IRIS events and serve as potential targets for immune interventions. PMID:23691062

Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, a biomarker of response to anti-TB treatment in HIV/TB co-infected patients.

PubMed

Nouhin, Janin; Pean, Polidy; Madec, Yoann; Chevalier, Mathieu F; Didier, Celine; Borand, Laurence; Blanc, François-Xavier; Scott-Algara, Daniel; Laureillard, Didier; Weiss, Laurence

2017-05-01

Despite the high frequency of tuberculosis-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (TB-IRIS) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/TB co-infected patients, no diagnostic test is available. Here, we investigated whether monocyte/macrophage activation markers can predict TB-IRIS occurrence and if they are modulated by anti-TB treatment. Frozen plasma was obtained from 127 HIV/TB co-infected adults naïve for antiretroviral therapy, enrolled in the CAMELIA trial, 36 of whom developed TB-IRIS. Concentrations of IL-1Ra, sCD14, and sCD163 were measured at anti-TB treatment onset (baseline), after 8 weeks of anti-TB treatment and at TB-IRIS time. At baseline, IL-1Ra and sCD14 concentrations were similar in TB-IRIS and non-IRIS patients. sCD163 concentrations, although significantly higher in TB-IRIS patients, did not remain associated with TB-IRIS occurrence in multivariate analysis. At the time of TB-IRIS, patients displayed higher concentrations of IL-1Ra (p = 0.002) and sCD14 (p < 0.001). The most striking result was the significant decrease in IL-1Ra after 8 weeks of anti-TB treatment (median reduction: -63% (p < 0.0001)). None of the biomarkers tested was associated with TB-IRIS occurrence. However, repeated measurement of IL-1Ra could help for the diagnosis of TB-IRIS. The substantial reduction of IL-1Ra under treatment suggests that IL-1Ra could be a surrogate biomarker of anti-TB treatment response in HIV-infected patients. Copyright © 2017 The British Infection Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Assessment of IRI-2012, NeQuick-2 and IRI-Plas 2015 models with observed equatorial ionization anomaly in Africa during 2009 sudden stratospheric warming event

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bolaji, O. S.; Oyeyemi, E. O.; Adewale, A. O.; Wu, Q.; Okoh, D.; Doherty, P. H.; Kaka, R. O.; Abbas, M.; Owolabi, C.; Jidele, P. A.

2017-11-01

In Africa, we assessed the performance of all the three options of International Reference Ionosphere 2012, IRI-2012 (i.e. IRI-2001, IRI-2001COR and IRI-NeQuick), NeQuick-2 and IRI-Plas 2015 models prior to and during 2009 sudden stratospheric warming (SSW) event to predict equatorial ionization anomaly (EIA) crest locations and their magnitudes using total electron content (TEC) from experimental records of Global Positioning System (GPS). We confirmed that the IRI-Plas 2015 that appeared as the best compared to all of the models as regard prediction of the EIA crest locations in the northern hemisphere of Africa is due to discontinuities in the GPS data between ∼8° N and 22° N. As regard the predictions of EIA crest magnitudes and the location of EIA crests in the southern hemisphere of Africa, they are not present in all the models. The NeQuick-2 model does not have the capability to predict either the EIA crest location in the northern or southern hemisphere. The SSW effect on the low latitude was able to modify a single EIA crest to pre-noon and post noon EIA crests in the northern hemisphere during the SSW peak phase and significantly reduced the GPS TEC magnitudes over the hemispheres as well. These SSW effects and delays of plasma transportation to higher latitudes in GPS TEC were absent in all the models. For future improvements of IRI-2012, NeQuick-2 and IRI-Plas 2015 models, SSW conditions should be included in order to characterize the effect of lower atmosphere on the ionosphere. The EIA trough modeling is only present in IRI-2001COR and IRI-2001NeQuick options. In the middle latitude, all the model could not predict the location of highest TEC magnitudes found at RBAY (Richardsbay, South Africa).

Contribution of Different Anatomical and Physiologic Factors to Iris Contour and Anterior Chamber Angle Changes During Pupil Dilation: Theoretical Analysis

PubMed Central

Jouzdani, Sara; Amini, Rouzbeh; Barocas, Victor H.

2013-01-01

Purpose. To investigate the contribution of three anatomical and physiologic factors (dilator thickness, dynamic pupillary block, and iris compressibility) to changes in iris configuration and anterior chamber angle during pupil dilation. Methods. A mathematical model of the anterior segment based on the average values of ocular dimensions was developed to simulate pupil dilation. To change the pupil diameter from 3.0 to 5.4 mm in 10 seconds, active dilator contraction was applied by imposing stress in the dilator region. Three sets of parameters were varied in the simulations: (1) a thin (4 μm, 1% of full thickness) versus a thick dilator (covering the full thickness iris) to quantify the effects of dilator anatomy, (2) in the presence (+PB) versus absence of pupillary block (−PB) to quantify the effect of dynamic motion of aqueous humor from the posterior to the anterior chamber, and (3) a compressible versus an incompressible iris to quantify the effects of iris volume change. Changes in the apparent iris–lens contact and angle open distance (AOD500) were calculated for each case. Results. The thin case predicted a significant increase (average 700%) in iris curvature compared with the thick case (average 70%), showing that the anatomy of dilator plays an important role in iris deformation during dilation. In the presence of pupillary block (+PB), AOD500 decreased 25% and 36% for the compressible and incompressible iris, respectively. Conclusions. Iris bowing during dilation was driven primarily by posterior location of the dilator muscle and by dynamic pupillary block, but the effect of pupillary block was not as large as that of the dilator anatomy according to the quantified values of AOD500. Incompressibility of the iris, in contrast, had a relatively small effect on iris curvature but a large effect on AOD500; thus, we conclude that all three effects are important. PMID:23482467

Establishing Age-Adjusted Reference Ranges for Iris-Related Parameters in Open Angle Eyes with Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography

PubMed Central

Peterson, Jeffrey R.; Blieden, Lauren S.; Chuang, Alice Z.; Baker, Laura A.; Rigi, Mohammed; Feldman, Robert M.; Bell, Nicholas P.

2016-01-01

Purpose Define criteria for iris-related parameters in an adult open angle population as measured with swept source Fourier domain anterior segment optical coherence tomography (ASOCT). Methods Ninety-eight eyes of 98 participants with open angles were included and stratified into 5 age groups (18–35, 36–45, 46–55, 56–65, and 66–79 years). ASOCT scans with 3D mode angle analysis were taken with the CASIA SS-1000 (Tomey Corporation, Nagoya, Japan) and analyzed using the Anterior Chamber Analysis and Interpretation software. Anterior iris surface length (AISL), length of scleral spur landmark (SSL) to pupillary margin (SSL-to-PM), iris contour ratio (ICR = AISL/SSL-to-PM), pupil radius, radius of iris centroid (RICe), and iris volume were measured. Outcome variables were summarized for all eyes and age groups, and mean values among age groups were compared using one-way analysis of variance. Stepwise regression analysis was used to investigate demographic and ocular characteristic factors that affected each iris-related parameter. Results Mean (±SD) values were 2.24 mm (±0.46), 4.06 mm (±0.27), 3.65 mm (±0.48), 4.16 mm (±0.47), 1.14 (±0.04), 1.51 mm2 (±0.23), and 38.42 μL (±4.91) for pupillary radius, RICe, SSL-to-PM, AISL, ICR, iris cross-sectional area, and iris volume, respectively. Both pupillary radius (P = 0.002) and RICe (P = 0.027) decreased with age, while SSL-to-PM (P = 0.002) and AISL increased with age (P = 0.001). ICR (P = 0.54) and iris volume (P = 0.49) were not affected by age. Conclusion This study establishes reference values for iris-related parameters in an adult open angle population, which will be useful for future studies examining the role of iris changes in pathologic states. PMID:26815917

Establishing Age-Adjusted Reference Ranges for Iris-Related Parameters in Open Angle Eyes with Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography.

PubMed

Peterson, Jeffrey R; Blieden, Lauren S; Chuang, Alice Z; Baker, Laura A; Rigi, Mohammed; Feldman, Robert M; Bell, Nicholas P

2016-01-01

Define criteria for iris-related parameters in an adult open angle population as measured with swept source Fourier domain anterior segment optical coherence tomography (ASOCT). Ninety-eight eyes of 98 participants with open angles were included and stratified into 5 age groups (18-35, 36-45, 46-55, 56-65, and 66-79 years). ASOCT scans with 3D mode angle analysis were taken with the CASIA SS-1000 (Tomey Corporation, Nagoya, Japan) and analyzed using the Anterior Chamber Analysis and Interpretation software. Anterior iris surface length (AISL), length of scleral spur landmark (SSL) to pupillary margin (SSL-to-PM), iris contour ratio (ICR = AISL/SSL-to-PM), pupil radius, radius of iris centroid (RICe), and iris volume were measured. Outcome variables were summarized for all eyes and age groups, and mean values among age groups were compared using one-way analysis of variance. Stepwise regression analysis was used to investigate demographic and ocular characteristic factors that affected each iris-related parameter. Mean (±SD) values were 2.24 mm (±0.46), 4.06 mm (±0.27), 3.65 mm (±0.48), 4.16 mm (±0.47), 1.14 (±0.04), 1.51 mm2 (±0.23), and 38.42 μL (±4.91) for pupillary radius, RICe, SSL-to-PM, AISL, ICR, iris cross-sectional area, and iris volume, respectively. Both pupillary radius (P = 0.002) and RICe (P = 0.027) decreased with age, while SSL-to-PM (P = 0.002) and AISL increased with age (P = 0.001). ICR (P = 0.54) and iris volume (P = 0.49) were not affected by age. This study establishes reference values for iris-related parameters in an adult open angle population, which will be useful for future studies examining the role of iris changes in pathologic states.

Excimer Laser Surgery: Biometrical Iris Eye Recognition with Cyclorotational Control Eye Tracker System.

PubMed

Pajic, Bojan; Cvejic, Zeljka; Mijatovic, Zoran; Indjin, Dragan; Mueller, Joerg

2017-05-25

A prospective comparative study assessing the importance of the intra-operative dynamic rotational tracking-especially in the treatment of astigmatisms in corneal refractive Excimer laser correction-concerning clinical outcomes is presented. The cyclotorsion from upright to supine position was measured using iris image comparison. The Group 1 of patients was additionally treated with cyclorotational control and Group 2 only with X-Y control. Significant differences were observed between the groups regarding the mean postoperative cylinder refraction ( p < 0.05). The mean cyclotorsion can be calculated to 3.75° with a standard deviation of 3.1°. The total range of torsion was from -14.9° to +12.6°. Re-treatment rate was 2.2% in Group 1 and 8.2% in Group 2, which is highly significant ( p < 0.01). The investigation confirms that the dynamic rotational tracking system used for LASIK results in highly predictable refraction quality with significantly less postoperative re-treatments.

Excimer Laser Surgery: Biometrical Iris Eye Recognition with Cyclorotational Control Eye Tracker System

PubMed Central

Pajic, Bojan; Cvejic, Zeljka; Mijatovic, Zoran; Indjin, Dragan; Mueller, Joerg

2017-01-01

A prospective comparative study assessing the importance of the intra-operative dynamic rotational tracking—especially in the treatment of astigmatisms in corneal refractive Excimer laser correction—concerning clinical outcomes is presented. The cyclotorsion from upright to supine position was measured using iris image comparison. The Group 1 of patients was additionally treated with cyclorotational control and Group 2 only with X-Y control. Significant differences were observed between the groups regarding the mean postoperative cylinder refraction (p < 0.05). The mean cyclotorsion can be calculated to 3.75° with a standard deviation of 3.1°. The total range of torsion was from −14.9° to +12.6°. Re-treatment rate was 2.2% in Group 1 and 8.2% in Group 2, which is highly significant (p < 0.01). The investigation confirms that the dynamic rotational tracking system used for LASIK results in highly predictable refraction quality with significantly less postoperative re-treatments. PMID:28587100

Similar Personality Patterns Are Associated with Empathy in Four Different Countries

PubMed Central

Melchers, Martin C.; Li, Mei; Haas, Brian W.; Reuter, Martin; Bischoff, Lena; Montag, Christian

2016-01-01

Empathy is an important human ability associated with successful social interaction. It is currently unclear how to optimally measure individual differences in empathic processing. Although the Big Five model of personality is an effective model to explain individual differences in human experience and behavior, its relation to measures of empathy is currently not well understood. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the relationship between the Big Five personality concept and two commonly used measures for empathy [Empathy Quotient (EQ), Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI)] in four samples from China, Germany, Spain, and the United States of America. This approach was designed to advance the way the Big Five personality model can be used to measure empathy. We found evidence of medium effect sizes for associations between personality and empathy, with agreeableness and conscientiousness as the most important predictors of affective and cognitive empathy (measured by the respective IRI subscales) as well as for a one-dimensional empathy score (measured by the EQ). Empathy in a fictional context was most closely related to openness to experience while personal distress was first of all related to neuroticism. In terms of culture, we did not observe any distinct pattern concerning cultural differences. These results support the cross-cultural applicability of the EQ and the IRI and indicate structurally similar associations between personality and empathy across cultures. PMID:27014115

Spatula scaffold: An iris-sparing technique for lensectomy.

PubMed

Narang, Priya; Agarwal, Amar

2017-12-01

Lensectomy with vitrectomy is often performed for crystalline lenticular subluxation. We report a new technique and a practical approach that involves the placement of a spatula beneath the iris tissue that facilitates retroiridial removal of subluxated lens and acts as a scaffold by protecting the iris tissue from being accidentally trapped into the vitrectomy cutter port. Our technique facilitates management of the lens and vitreous without any trauma to the iris and secondarily obviates the need to perform an iris repair procedure that may arise due to iatrogenic reasons.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Ammonia (External Review Draft ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

EPA is conducting a peer review of the scientific basis supporting the human health hazard and dose-response assessment of ammonia that will appear in the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) database. EPA is undertaking an Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for ammonia. IRIS is an EPA database containing Agency scientific positions on potential adverse human health effects that may result from chronic (or lifetime) exposure to chemicals in the environment. IRIS contains chemical-specific summaries of qualitative and quantitative health information in support of two steps of the risk assessment paradigm, i.e., hazard identification and dose-response evaluation. IRIS assessments are used in combination with specific situational exposure assessment information to evaluate potential public health risk associated with environmental contaminants.

On-instrument wavefront sensor design for the TMT infrared imaging spectrograph (IRIS) update

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dunn, Jennifer; Reshetov, Vladimir; Atwood, Jenny; Pazder, John; Wooff, Bob; Loop, David; Saddlemyer, Leslie; Moore, Anna M.; Larkin, James E.

2014-08-01

The first light instrument on the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project will be the InfraRed Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS). IRIS will be mounted on a bottom port of the facility AO instrument NFIRAOS. IRIS will report guiding information to the NFIRAOS through the On-Instrument Wavefront Sensor (OIWFS) that is part of IRIS. This will be in a self-contained compartment of IRIS and will provide three deployable wavefront sensor probe arms. This entire unit will be rotated to provide field de-rotation. Currently in our preliminary design stage our efforts have included: prototyping of the probe arm to determine the accuracy of this critical component, handling cart design and reviewing different types of glass for the atmospheric dispersion.

IRIS Toxicological Review of 2-Hexanone (Interagency ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

On September 25, 2009, the IRIS Summary and Toxicological Review of 2-hexanone was finalized and loaded onto the IRIS database. The Toxicological Review of 2-hexanone was reviewed internally by EPA, by other federal agencies and White House Offices, by expert external peer reviewers, and by the public. In the new IRIS process, introduced by the EPA Administrator, all written comments on IRIS assessments submitted by other federal agencies and White House Offices will be made publicly available. Accordingly, interagency comments and the interagency draft of the 2-hexanone IRIS assessment are posted on this site. The draft Toxicological Review of 2-hexanone provides scientific support and rationale for the hazard identification and dose-response assessment pertaining to chronic exposure to 2-hexanone.

IRIS Toxicological Review of n-Butanol (External Review Draft ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

EPA is conducting a peer review of the scientific basis supporting the human health hazard and dose-response assessment of n-butanol that will appear in the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) database. EPA is undertaking an Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for n-butanol. IRIS is an EPA database containing Agency scientific positions on potential adverse human health effects that may result from chronic (or lifetime) exposure to chemicals in the environment. IRIS contains chemical-specific summaries of qualitative and quantitative health information in support of two steps of the risk assessment paradigm, i.e., hazard identification and dose-response evaluation. IRIS assessments are used in combination with specific situational exposure assessment information to evaluate potential public health risk associated with environmental contaminants.

IRIS Toxicological Review of 1,2,3-trichloropropane ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

On September 30, 2009, the IRIS Summary and Toxicological Review of 1,2,3-trichloropropane (TCP) was finalized and loaded onto the IRIS database. The Toxicological Review of TCP was reviewed internally by EPA, by other federal agencies and White House Offices, by expert external peer reviewers, and by the public. In the new IRIS process, introduced by the EPA Administrator, all written comments on IRIS assessments submitted by other federal agencies and White House Offices will be made publicly available. Accordingly, interagency comments and the interagency draft of the TCP IRIS assessment are posted on this site. This Tox Review provides scientific support and rationale for the hazard and dose-response assessment pertaining to chronic exposure to 1,2,3-trichloropropane.

Iris unwrapping using the Bresenham circle algorithm for real-time iris recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carothers, Matthew T.; Ngo, Hau T.; Rakvic, Ryan N.; Broussard, Randy P.

2015-02-01

An efficient parallel architecture design for the iris unwrapping process in a real-time iris recognition system using the Bresenham Circle Algorithm is presented in this paper. Based on the characteristics of the model parameters this algorithm was chosen over the widely used polar conversion technique as the iris unwrapping model. The architecture design is parallelized to increase the throughput of the system and is suitable for processing an inputted image size of 320 × 240 pixels in real-time using Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) technology. Quartus software is used to implement, verify, and analyze the design's performance using the VHSIC Hardware Description Language. The system's predicted processing time is faster than the modern iris unwrapping technique used today∗.

Mitigation of autophagy ameliorates hepatocellular damage following ischemia-reperfusion injury in murine steatotic liver

PubMed Central

Kolachala, Vasantha L.; Jiang, Rong; Abramowsky, Carlos; Shenoi, Asha; Kosters, Astrid; Pavuluri, Haritha; Anania, Frank; Kirk, Allan D.

2014-01-01

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a common clinical consequence of hepatic surgery, cardiogenic shock, and liver transplantation. A steatotic liver is particularly vulnerable to IRI, responding with extensive hepatocellular injury. Autophagy, a lysosomal pathway balancing cell survival and cell death, is engaged in IRI, although its role in IRI of a steatotic liver is unclear. The role of autophagy was investigated in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice exposed to IRI in vivo and in steatotic hepatocytes exposed to hypoxic IRI (HIRI) in vitro. Two inhibitors of autophagy, 3-methyladenine and bafilomycin A1, protected the steatotic hepatocytes from HIRI. Exendin 4 (Ex4), a glucagon-like peptide 1 analog, also led to suppression of autophagy, as evidenced by decreased autophagy-associated proteins [microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3 (LC3) II, p62, high-mobility group protein B1, beclin-1, and autophagy-related protein 7], reduced hepatocellular damage, and improved mitochondrial structure and function in HFD-fed mice exposed to IRI. Decreased autophagy was further demonstrated by reversal of a punctate pattern of LC3 and decreased autophagic flux after IRI in HFD-fed mice. Under the same conditions, the effects of Ex4 were reversed by the competitive antagonist exendin 9-39. The present study suggests that, in IRI of hepatic steatosis, treatment of hepatocytes with Ex4 mitigates autophagy, ameliorates hepatocellular injury, and preserves mitochondrial integrity. These data suggest that therapies targeting autophagy, by Ex4 treatment in particular, may ameliorate the effects of IRI in highly prevalent steatotic liver. PMID:25258410

Iris alterations after DSAEK.

PubMed

Del Hierro Zarzuelo, A; Boto de Los Bueis, A

2016-09-01

To evaluate a series of case that developed iris changes after performing Descemet's stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK). Retrospective study of eyes that developed iris abnormalities, such as pupil ovalisation, iris atrophy, iridocorneal synechiae, mydriatic pupil, and pigmentary changes after performing DSAEK in a tertiary hospital. In a series of the first 32 DSAEK procedures performed, new single or mixed iris alterations were observed in 12 eyes (37.5%). Iris-corneal synechiae were observed in 7 eyes, corectopias in 9 eyes, iris atrophy in 3 cases, and one case developed an areflexic mydriatic pupil. Long-term pigment dispersion at the edge of the lenticule was observed in 12 eyes. The alterations occurred after three months from the surgery. In the evaluation of the associated factors, malignant glaucoma had occurred in 1 case, 2 eyes had required a second surgery, one case by re-DSAEK, and the other one by removing the intraocular lens due to lens opacification. Two cases had a shallow anterior chamber. No relationship was found between the thickness of the peripheral lenticule and the presence of synechiae. Iris changes regarding DSAEK are possible. A discussion is presented on the relationship between increased intraocular pressure due to air in anterior chamber and its relationship with ischaemia and secondary alterations in the iris. Copyright © 2016 Sociedad Española de Oftalmología. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Gaze Estimation for Off-Angle Iris Recognition Based on the Biometric Eye Model

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Karakaya, Mahmut; Barstow, Del R; Santos-Villalobos, Hector J

Iris recognition is among the highest accuracy biometrics. However, its accuracy relies on controlled high quality capture data and is negatively affected by several factors such as angle, occlusion, and dilation. Non-ideal iris recognition is a new research focus in biometrics. In this paper, we present a gaze estimation method designed for use in an off-angle iris recognition framework based on the ANONYMIZED biometric eye model. Gaze estimation is an important prerequisite step to correct an off-angle iris images. To achieve the accurate frontal reconstruction of an off-angle iris image, we first need to estimate the eye gaze direction frommore » elliptical features of an iris image. Typically additional information such as well-controlled light sources, head mounted equipment, and multiple cameras are not available. Our approach utilizes only the iris and pupil boundary segmentation allowing it to be applicable to all iris capture hardware. We compare the boundaries with a look-up-table generated by using our biologically inspired biometric eye model and find the closest feature point in the look-up-table to estimate the gaze. Based on the results from real images, the proposed method shows effectiveness in gaze estimation accuracy for our biometric eye model with an average error of approximately 3.5 degrees over a 50 degree range.« less

The International Reference Ionosphere 2012 - a model of international collaboration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bilitza, Dieter; Altadill, David; Zhang, Yongliang; Mertens, Chris; Truhlik, Vladimir; Richards, Phil; McKinnell, Lee-Anne; Reinisch, Bodo

2014-02-01

The International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) project was established jointly by the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) and the International Union of Radio Science (URSI) in the late sixties with the goal to develop an international standard for the specification of plasma parameters in the Earth's ionosphere. COSPAR needed such a specification for the evaluation of environmental effects on spacecraft and experiments in space, and URSI for radiowave propagation studies and applications. At the request of COSPAR and URSI, IRI was developed as a data-based model to avoid the uncertainty of theory-based models which are only as good as the evolving theoretical understanding. Being based on most of the available and reliable observations of the ionospheric plasma from the ground and from space, IRI describes monthly averages of electron density, electron temperature, ion temperature, ion composition, and several additional parameters in the altitude range from 60 km to 2000 km. A working group of about 50 international ionospheric experts is in charge of developing and improving the IRI model. Over time as new data became available and new modeling techniques emerged, steadily improved editions of the IRI model have been published. This paper gives a brief history of the IRI project and describes the latest version of the model, IRI-2012. It also briefly discusses efforts to develop a real-time IRI model. The IRI homepage is at http://IRImodel.org.

IRIS: Supporting & Managing the Research Life-Cycle

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bollini, Andrea; Mennielli, Michele; Mornati, Susanna; Palmer, David T.

2016-01-01

IRIS is a new Current Research Information System (CRIS) developed by Cineca to upgrade and replace two previous solutions that have been used by Italian universities in the last 10 years. At the end of 2015, sixty-three Italian institutions are using IRIS. One of the main components of IRIS is DSpace-CRIS, an open source solution that can also be…

[The automatic iris map overlap technology in computer-aided iridiagnosis].

PubMed

He, Jia-feng; Ye, Hu-nian; Ye, Miao-yuan

2002-11-01

In the paper, iridology and computer-aided iridiagnosis technologies are briefly introduced and the extraction method of the collarette contour is then investigated. The iris map can be overlapped on the original iris image based on collarette contour extraction. The research on collarette contour extraction and iris map overlap is of great importance to computer-aided iridiagnosis technologies.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Ammonia (Interagency Science ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

On June 1, 2012, the draft Toxicological Review of Ammonia and the draft charge to external peer reviewers were released for external peer review and public comment. The Toxicological Review and charge were reviewed internally by EPA and by other federal agencies and White House Offices before public release. Consistent with the May 2009 IRIS assessment development process, all written comments on IRIS assessments submitted by other federal agencies and White House Offices are made publicly available. Accordingly, interagency comments and the interagency science consultation materials provided to other agencies, including interagency review drafts of the IRIS Toxicological Review of Ammonia and the charge to external peer reviewers, are posted on this site. EPA is undertaking an Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for ammonia. IRIS is an EPA database containing Agency scientific positions on potential adverse human health effects that may result from chronic (or lifetime) exposure to chemicals in the environment. IRIS contains chemical-specific summaries of qualitative and quantitative health information in support of two steps of the risk assessment paradigm, i.e., hazard identification and dose-response evaluation. IRIS assessments are used in combination with specific situational exposure assessment information to evaluate potential public health risk associated with environmental contaminants.

IRIS Toxicological Review of n-Butanol (Interagency Science ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

On September 8, 2011, the Toxicological Review of n-Butanol (External Review Draft) was released for external peer review and public comment. The Toxicological Review and charge were reviewed internally by EPA and by other federal agencies and White House Offices before public release. In the new IRIS process, introduced by the EPA Administrator, all written comments on IRIS assessments submitted by other federal agencies and White House Offices will be made publicly available. Accordingly, interagency comments with EPA's response and the interagency science consultation draft of the IRIS Toxicological Review of n-Butanol and the charge to external peer reviewers are posted on this site. EPA is undertaking an Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for n-butanol. IRIS is an EPA database containing Agency scientific positions on potential adverse human health effects that may result from chronic (or lifetime) exposure to chemicals in the environment. IRIS contains chemical-specific summaries of qualitative and quantitative health information in support of two steps of the risk assessment paradigm, i.e., hazard identification and dose-response evaluation. IRIS assessments are used in combination with specific situational exposure assessment information to evaluate potential public health risk associated with environmental contaminants.

Fluorescein angiography of the iris in anterior segment pigment dispersal syndrome.

PubMed Central

Gillies, W E; Tangas, C

1986-01-01

The results are presented of fluorescein angiography of the iris in 11 patients with anterior segment pigment dispersal syndrome. These show a general hypovascularity of the iris with fine neovascularisation at the pupil margin and the peripupillary area. Hypoplasia of the iris stroma was also present in many cases. When the condition was virtually unilateral, the vascular changes were present though less marked in the relatively unaffected eye. It is postulated that the anterior segment pigment dispersal syndrome is secondary to a congenital mesodermal deficiency of the iris stroma with hypovascularity of the iris, which forms a poor support tissue for the pigment epithelium of the iris, resulting in shedding of pigment granules particularly in the region of the attachment of the dilator muscle to the pigment epithelium. The condition may be hereditary. Because of the hypovascularity the mesodermal hypoplasia may be progressive, but pigment release may diminish in later life with treatment, with consequent diminution of pupil activity. Images PMID:2421760

Feature and Score Fusion Based Multiple Classifier Selection for Iris Recognition

PubMed Central

Islam, Md. Rabiul

2014-01-01

The aim of this work is to propose a new feature and score fusion based iris recognition approach where voting method on Multiple Classifier Selection technique has been applied. Four Discrete Hidden Markov Model classifiers output, that is, left iris based unimodal system, right iris based unimodal system, left-right iris feature fusion based multimodal system, and left-right iris likelihood ratio score fusion based multimodal system, is combined using voting method to achieve the final recognition result. CASIA-IrisV4 database has been used to measure the performance of the proposed system with various dimensions. Experimental results show the versatility of the proposed system of four different classifiers with various dimensions. Finally, recognition accuracy of the proposed system has been compared with existing N hamming distance score fusion approach proposed by Ma et al., log-likelihood ratio score fusion approach proposed by Schmid et al., and single level feature fusion approach proposed by Hollingsworth et al. PMID:25114676

IRIS Toxicological Review of Hexahydro-1,3,5-Trinitro-1,3,5 ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

On March 10, 2016, the public comment draft Toxicological Review of Hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine and the draft charge to external peer reviewers were released for public review and comment. The Toxicological Review and charge were reviewed internally by EPA and by other federal agencies and White House Offices before public release. Consistent with the May 2009 IRIS assessment development process, all written comments on IRIS assessments submitted by other federal agencies and White House Offices are made publicly available. Accordingly, interagency comments and the interagency science consultation materials provided to other agencies, including interagency review drafts of the IRIS Toxicological Review of Hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine and the charge to external peer reviewers, are posted on this site. EPA is undertaking an update of the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for RDX. The outcome of this project is an updated Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary for RDX that will be entered into the IRIS database.

A hyperspectral imaging system for the evaluation of the human iris spectral reflectance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Di Cecilia, Luca; Marazzi, Francesco; Rovati, Luigi

2017-02-01

According to previous studies, the measurement of the human iris pigmentation can be exploited to detect certain eye pathological conditions in their early stage. In this paper, we propose an instrument and a method to perform hyperspectral quantitative measurements of the iris spectral reflectance. The system is based on a simple imaging setup, which includes a monochrome camera mounted on a standard ophthalmic microscope movement controller, a monochromator, and a flashing LED-based slit lamp. To assure quantitative measurements, the system is properly calibrated against a NIST reflectance standard. Iris reflectance images can be obtained in the spectral range 495-795 nm with a resolution of 25 nm. Each image consists of 1280 x 1024 pixels having a spatial resolution of 18 μm. Reflectance spectra can be calculated both from discrete areas of the iris and as the average of the whole iris surface. Preliminary results suggest that hyperspectral imaging of the iris can provide much more morphological and spectral information with respect to conventional qualitative colorimetric methods.

Characterization of iris pattern stretches and application to the measurement of roll axis eye movements.

PubMed

Nishiyama, Junpei; Hashimoto, Tsutomu; Sakashita, Yusuke; Fujiyoshi, Hironobu; Hirata, Yutaka

2008-01-01

Eye movements are utilized in many scientific studies as a probe that reflects the neural representation of 3 dimensional extrapersonal space. This study proposes a method to accurately measure the roll component of eye movements under the conditions in which the pupil diameter changes. Generally, the iris pattern matching between a reference and a test iris image is performed to estimate roll angle of the test image. However, iris patterns are subject to change when the pupil size changes, thus resulting in less accurate roll angle estimation if the pupil sizes in the test and reference images are different. We characterized non-uniform iris pattern contraction/expansion caused by pupil dilation/constriction, and developed an algorithm to convert an iris pattern with an arbitrary pupil size into that with the same pupil size as the reference iris pattern. It was demonstrated that the proposed method improved the accuracy of the measurement of roll eye movement by up to 76.9%.

Feature and score fusion based multiple classifier selection for iris recognition.

PubMed

Islam, Md Rabiul

2014-01-01

The aim of this work is to propose a new feature and score fusion based iris recognition approach where voting method on Multiple Classifier Selection technique has been applied. Four Discrete Hidden Markov Model classifiers output, that is, left iris based unimodal system, right iris based unimodal system, left-right iris feature fusion based multimodal system, and left-right iris likelihood ratio score fusion based multimodal system, is combined using voting method to achieve the final recognition result. CASIA-IrisV4 database has been used to measure the performance of the proposed system with various dimensions. Experimental results show the versatility of the proposed system of four different classifiers with various dimensions. Finally, recognition accuracy of the proposed system has been compared with existing N hamming distance score fusion approach proposed by Ma et al., log-likelihood ratio score fusion approach proposed by Schmid et al., and single level feature fusion approach proposed by Hollingsworth et al.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Tetrahydrofuran (THF) (External ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

EPA is conducting a peer review and public comment of the scientific basis supporting the human health hazard and dose-response assessment of tetrahydrofuran (THF) that when finalized will appear on the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) database. EPA is undertaking an Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for tetrahydrofuran. IRIS is an EPA database containing Agency scientific positions on potential adverse human health effects that may result from chronic (or lifetime) exposure to chemicals in the environment. IRIS contains chemical-specific summaries of qualitative and quantitative health information in support of two steps of the risk assessment paradigm, i.e., hazard identification and dose-response evaluation. IRIS assessments are used in combination with specific situational exposure assessment information to evaluate potential public health risk associated with environmental contaminants.

New methods in iris recognition.

PubMed

Daugman, John

2007-10-01

This paper presents the following four advances in iris recognition: 1) more disciplined methods for detecting and faithfully modeling the iris inner and outer boundaries with active contours, leading to more flexible embedded coordinate systems; 2) Fourier-based methods for solving problems in iris trigonometry and projective geometry, allowing off-axis gaze to be handled by detecting it and "rotating" the eye into orthographic perspective; 3) statistical inference methods for detecting and excluding eyelashes; and 4) exploration of score normalizations, depending on the amount of iris data that is available in images and the required scale of database search. Statistical results are presented based on 200 billion iris cross-comparisons that were generated from 632500 irises in the United Arab Emirates database to analyze the normalization issues raised in different regions of receiver operating characteristic curves.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Tert-Butyl Alcohol (Tert-Butanol) ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The IRIS Toxicological Review of tert-Butyl Alcohol (tert-Butanol) was released for external peer review in June 2017. EPA’s Science Advisory Board’s (SAB) Chemical Assessment Advisory Committee (CAAC) will conduct a peer review of the scientific basis supporting the tert-butanol assessment and release a final report of their review. Information regarding the peer review can be found on the SAB website. EPA is conducting an Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for tert-butanol. The outcome of this project is a Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary for tert-butanol that will be entered into the IRIS database.

Iris metastasis as a first manifestation of lung adenocarcinoma.

PubMed

Hernández-Da Mota, S E; Ulaje-Nuñez, J M; Salinas-Gallegos, J L; Rodríguez-Reyes, A

2018-03-23

To describe a case of lung adenocarcinoma for which the first clinical manifestation was an iris metastasis. A 76-year-old male patient came for consultation referring a «pinkish speck» on his right eye. On biomicroscopy examination, a mass was found on the iris of the right eye. Subsequent systemic work-up of the patient revealed a left lung adenocarcinoma. Although uncommon, iris metastasis secondary to lung cancer should be part of differential diagnosis in iris tumours. Copyright © 2018 Sociedad Española de Oftalmología. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Iris coloboma in one eye and pigment dispersion syndrome in the fellow eye.

PubMed

Galvis, Virgilio; Tello, Alejandro; Valarezo, Paul; Prada, Angélica M

2013-05-22

We report a case of a 43-year-old patient with coloboma of the iris, zonule, ciliary body, choroid and retina in the right eye and pigment dispersion syndrome in the left eye. Considering the hypothesis of the pigment dispersion syndrome pathogenesis in which a difference of pressures in the anterior and posterior chambers creates a posterior convexity of the iris leading to reverse pupillary block, iris touch and consequently causing pigment dispersion, we suggest that the presence of an iris coloboma, by equalising the pressures in the two chambers, prevented the onset of syndrome in that eye.

Pigment dispersion syndrome and pigmentary glaucoma--a major review.

PubMed

Niyadurupola, Nuwan; Broadway, David C

2008-12-01

Pigment dispersion syndrome (PDS) is an interesting condition that can lead to secondary open angle glaucoma. Pigmentary glaucoma is primarily a disease of young people, myopes and men. PDS is characterized by the presence of Krukenberg spindles, iris trans-illumination defects, trabecular meshwork pigmentation and backward bowing of the iris. Posterior bowing of the iris causes rubbing of the pigmented iris epithelium against lens structures, liberation of pigment and trabecular meshwork changes that result in reduced aqueous outflow with the risk of glaucoma. Peripheral laser iridotomy can reverse backward bowing of the iris and may prevent progression of pigmentary glaucoma.

Iris Transponder-Communications and Navigation for Deep Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Duncan, Courtney B.; Smith, Amy E.; Aguirre, Fernando H.

2014-01-01

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory has developed the Iris CubeSat compatible deep space transponder for INSPIRE, the first CubeSat to deep space. Iris is 0.4 U, 0.4 kg, consumes 12.8 W, and interoperates with NASA's Deep Space Network (DSN) on X-Band frequencies (7.2 GHz uplink, 8.4 GHz downlink) for command, telemetry, and navigation. This talk discusses the Iris for INSPIRE, it's features and requirements; future developments and improvements underway; deep space and proximity operations applications for Iris; high rate earth orbit variants; and ground requirements, such as are implemented in the DSN, for deep space operations.

Extending the imaging volume for biometric iris recognition.

PubMed

Narayanswamy, Ramkumar; Johnson, Gregory E; Silveira, Paulo E X; Wach, Hans B

2005-02-10

The use of the human iris as a biometric has recently attracted significant interest in the area of security applications. The need to capture an iris without active user cooperation places demands on the optical system. Unlike a traditional optical design, in which a large imaging volume is traded off for diminished imaging resolution and capacity for collecting light, Wavefront Coded imaging is a computational imaging technology capable of expanding the imaging volume while maintaining an accurate and robust iris identification capability. We apply Wavefront Coded imaging to extend the imaging volume of the iris recognition application.

Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome Unmasking or Worsening AIDS-Related Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy: A Literature Review.

PubMed

Fournier, Anna; Martin-Blondel, Guillaume; Lechapt-Zalcman, Emmanuèle; Dina, Julia; Kazemi, Apolline; Verdon, Renaud; Mortier, Emmanuel; de La Blanchardière, Arnaud

2017-01-01

Incidence of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in HIV-infected patients has declined in the combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) era although a growing number of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related PML-immune reconstitution inflammatory syndromes (PML-IRIS) have been published during the same period. Therapeutic management of PML-IRIS is not consensual and mainly relies on corticosteroids. Our main aim was, in addition to provide a thoughtful analysis of published PML-IRIS cases, to assess the benefit of corticosteroids in the management of PML-IRIS, focusing on confirmed cases. We performed a literature review of the 46 confirmed cases of PML-IRIS cases occurring in HIV-infected patients from 1998 to September 2016 (21 unmasking and 25 paradoxical PML-IRIS). AIDS-related PML-IRIS patients were mostly men (sex ratio 4/1) with a median age of 40.5 years (range 12-66). Median CD4 T cell count before cART and at PML-IRIS onset was 45/μl (0-301) and 101/μl (20-610), respectively. After cART initiation, PML-IRIS occurred within a median timescale of 38 days (18-120). Clinical signs were motor deficits (69%), speech disorders (36%), cognitive disorders (33%), cerebellar ataxia (28%), and visual disturbances (23%). Brain MRI revealed hyperintense areas on T2-weighted sequences and FLAIR images (76%) and suggestive contrast enhancement (87%). PCR for John Cunningham virus (JCV) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was positive in only 84% of cases; however, when performed, brain biopsy confirmed diagnosis of PML in 90% of cases and demonstrated histological signs of IRIS in 95% of cases. Clinical worsening related to PML-IRIS and leading to death was observed in 28% of cases. Corticosteroids were prescribed in 63% of cases and maraviroc in one case. Statistical analysis failed to demonstrate significant benefit from steroid treatment, despite spectacular improvement in certain cases. Diagnosis of PML-IRIS should be considered in HIV-infected patients with worsening neurological symptoms after initiation or resumption of effective cART, independently of CD4 cell count prior to cART. If PCR for JCV is negative in CSF, brain biopsy should be discussed. Only large multicentric randomized trials could potentially demonstrate the possible efficacy of corticosteroids and/or CCR5 antagonists in the management of PML-IRIS.

Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome Unmasking or Worsening AIDS-Related Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy: A Literature Review

PubMed Central

Fournier, Anna; Martin-Blondel, Guillaume; Lechapt-Zalcman, Emmanuèle; Dina, Julia; Kazemi, Apolline; Verdon, Renaud; Mortier, Emmanuel; de La Blanchardière, Arnaud

2017-01-01

Incidence of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in HIV-infected patients has declined in the combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) era although a growing number of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related PML-immune reconstitution inflammatory syndromes (PML-IRIS) have been published during the same period. Therapeutic management of PML-IRIS is not consensual and mainly relies on corticosteroids. Our main aim was, in addition to provide a thoughtful analysis of published PML-IRIS cases, to assess the benefit of corticosteroids in the management of PML-IRIS, focusing on confirmed cases. We performed a literature review of the 46 confirmed cases of PML-IRIS cases occurring in HIV-infected patients from 1998 to September 2016 (21 unmasking and 25 paradoxical PML-IRIS). AIDS-related PML-IRIS patients were mostly men (sex ratio 4/1) with a median age of 40.5 years (range 12–66). Median CD4 T cell count before cART and at PML-IRIS onset was 45/μl (0–301) and 101/μl (20–610), respectively. After cART initiation, PML-IRIS occurred within a median timescale of 38 days (18–120). Clinical signs were motor deficits (69%), speech disorders (36%), cognitive disorders (33%), cerebellar ataxia (28%), and visual disturbances (23%). Brain MRI revealed hyperintense areas on T2-weighted sequences and FLAIR images (76%) and suggestive contrast enhancement (87%). PCR for John Cunningham virus (JCV) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was positive in only 84% of cases; however, when performed, brain biopsy confirmed diagnosis of PML in 90% of cases and demonstrated histological signs of IRIS in 95% of cases. Clinical worsening related to PML-IRIS and leading to death was observed in 28% of cases. Corticosteroids were prescribed in 63% of cases and maraviroc in one case. Statistical analysis failed to demonstrate significant benefit from steroid treatment, despite spectacular improvement in certain cases. Diagnosis of PML-IRIS should be considered in HIV-infected patients with worsening neurological symptoms after initiation or resumption of effective cART, independently of CD4 cell count prior to cART. If PCR for JCV is negative in CSF, brain biopsy should be discussed. Only large multicentric randomized trials could potentially demonstrate the possible efficacy of corticosteroids and/or CCR5 antagonists in the management of PML-IRIS. PMID:28588577

HyspIRI Low Latency Concept and Benchmarks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mandl, Dan

2010-01-01

Topics include HyspIRI low latency data ops concept, HyspIRI data flow, ongoing efforts, experiment with Web Coverage Processing Service (WCPS) approach to injecting new algorithms into SensorWeb, low fidelity HyspIRI IPM testbed, compute cloud testbed, open cloud testbed environment, Global Lambda Integrated Facility (GLIF) and OCC collaboration with Starlight, delay tolerant network (DTN) protocol benchmarking, and EO-1 configuration for preliminary DTN prototype.

Iridium Interfacial Stack (IRIS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spry, David James (Inventor)

2015-01-01

An iridium interfacial stack ("IrIS") and a method for producing the same are provided. The IrIS may include ordered layers of TaSi.sub.2, platinum, iridium, and platinum, and may be placed on top of a titanium layer and a silicon carbide layer. The IrIS may prevent, reduce, or mitigate against diffusion of elements such as oxygen, platinum, and gold through at least some of its layers.

Long-term results after artificial iris implantation in patients with aniridia.

PubMed

Rickmann, Annekatrin; Szurman, Peter; Januschowski, Kai; Waizel, Maria; Spitzer, Martin S; Boden, Karl T; Szurman, Gesine B

2016-07-01

The custom-made, flexible artificial iris developed by HumanOptics and Koch can reconstruct the anterior segment of patients with aniridia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term clinical outcome and complication spectrum after artificial iris implantation and the role of the embedded fiber mesh in view of specific complications. In this retrospective interventional case series, patients received an artificial iris between 2004 and 2013. Only eyes with a minimum follow-up period of 2 years were included. Indications were congenital, traumatic, or iatrogenic aniridia. The artificial iris was used either with or without embedded fiber mesh for partial or full prostheses. We included 34 patients (mean age 48.8 years; SD ±17.2) with a mean follow-up of 50.0 months (SD ±18.9 months). No repositioning of prostheses was necessary. In cases of keratopathy (17.6 %) visual function increased from baseline mean 1.6 logMAR (SD ±0.7) to 1.2 logMAR (SD ±0.7) after artificial iris implantation. The remaining iris tissue darkened during the follow-up in 23.5 % (83.3 % with and 10.7 % without mesh), 8.8 % developed glaucoma (50 % with and 0 % without mesh) and 14.7 % needed consecutive surgery after prostheses implantation (50 % with and 7.1 % without mesh). In three out of seven trauma cases (42.9 %) silicone oil was spilled into the anterior chamber after 2.5 years on average. The artificial iris prosthesis revealed a good clinical outcome in terms of long-term stability, cosmetic appearance, visual function, and represents a good functional iris diaphragm for compartmentalisation. Complications such as glaucoma, darkening of iris tissue, and need for consecutive anterior segment surgery are clearly associated with implants with integrated fiber mesh, but not to those without. Hence, the use of full iris prostheses without embedded fiber mesh, even in cases with remnant iris, and the use of slightly smaller implants than officially recommended may be beneficial.

Comparison of GPS TEC variations with Holt-Winter method and IRI-2012 over Langkawi, Malaysia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elmunim, N. A.; Abdullah, M.; Hasbi, A. M.; Bahari, S. A.

2017-07-01

The Total Electron Content (TEC) is the ionospheric parameter that has the main effect on radio wave propagation. Therefore, it is crucial to evaluate the performance of the TEC models for the further improvement of the ionospheric modelling in equatorial regions. This work presents an analysis of the TEC, derived from the GPS Ionospheric Scintillation and TEC Monitor (GISTM) receiver at the Langkawi station, Malaysia, located at the geographic coordinates of 6.19°N, 99.51°E and the geomagnetic coordinates of 3.39°S, 172.42°E. The diurnal, monthly and seasonal variations in 2014 of the observed GPS-TEC were compared with the statistical Holt-Winter method and a recent version of the International Reference Ionosphere model (IRI-2012), using three different topside options of an electron density, which are the IRI-2001, IRI01-corr and NeQuick. The maximum peaks of the GPS-TEC were observed in the post-noon time and the minimum was observed during the early morning time. In addition, in monthly variations the Holt-Winter and the IRI-2012 topside options showed an underestimation that was in agreement with the GPS-TEC, except for the IRI-2001 model which showed an overestimation in June, July and August. Regarding the seasonal variation of the GPS-TEC, the lowest values were observed during summer and it reached its maximum value during the equinox season. The IRI-2001 showed the highest value of percentage deviation compared to the IRI01-corr, NeQuick and Holt-Winter method. Therefore, the accuracy of the models was found to be approximately 95% in the Holt-Winter method, 75% in the IRI01-corr, 73% in the NeQuick and 66% in the IRI-2001 model. Hence, it can be inferred that the Holt-Winter method showed a higher performance and better estimates of the TEC compared to the IRI01-corr and NeQuick, while the IRI-2001 showed a poor predictive performance in the equatorial region over Malaysia.

Clinical and histopathological features of adenomas of the ciliary pigment epithelium.

PubMed

Chang, Ying; Wei, Wen Bin; Shi, Ji Tong; Xian, Jun Fang; Yang, Wen Li; Xu, Xiao Lin; Bai, Hai Xia; Li, Bin; Jonas, Jost B

2016-11-01

Adenomas of the ciliary pigment epithelium (CPE) are rare benign tumours which have mainly to be differentiated from malignant ciliary body melanomas. Here we report on a consecutive series of patients with CPE adenomas and describe their characteristics. The retrospective hospital-based case series study included all patients who were consecutively operated for CPE adenomas. Of the 110 patients treated for ciliary body tumours, five patients (4.5%) had a CPE adenoma. Mean age was 59.0 ± 9.9 years (range: 46-72 years). Mean tumour apical thickness was 6.6 ± 1.7 mm. Tumour colour was mostly homogenously brown to black, and the tumour surface was smooth. The tumour masses pushed the iris tissue forward without infiltrating iris or anterior chamber angle. Sonography revealed an irregular echogram with sharp lesion borders and signs of blood flow in Color Doppler flow imaging. Ultrasonographic biomicroscopy demonstrated medium-low internal reflectivity and acoustic attenuation. In magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the tumours as compared to brain were hyperintense on T1-weighted images and hypointense on T2-weighted images. Tumour tissue consisted of cords and nests of pigment epithelium cells separated by septa of vascularized fibrous connective tissue, leading to a pseudo-glandular appearance. The melanin granules in the cytoplasm were large and mostly spherical in shape. In four patients, the tumours were hyperpigmented. Tumour cells were large with round or oval nuclei and clearly detectable nucleoli. These clinical characteristics of CPE adenomas, such as homogenous dark brown colour, smooth surface, iris dislocation and anterior chamber angle narrowing but no iris infiltration, segmental cataract, pigment dispersion, and, as compared to brain tissue, hypointensity and, as compared to extraocular muscles or lacrimal gland, hyperintensity on T2-weighted MRI images, may be helpful for the differentiation from ciliary body malignant melanomas. © 2016 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Comparison of GPS-derived TEC with IRI-2012 and IRI-2007 TEC predictions at Surat, a location around the EIA crest in the Indian sector, during the ascending phase of solar cycle 24

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patel, N. C.; Karia, S. P.; Pathak, K. N.

2017-07-01

This paper presents a comparison of GPS-derived TEC with IRI-2012 and IRI-2007 TEC Predictions at Surat (21.16°N Geographic latitude, 72.78°E Geographic longitude, 12.90°N Geomagnetic latitude) a location around the Equatorial Ionisation Anomaly (EIA) crest in the Indian sector, during the Ascending Phase of Solar Cycle 24, for a period of three years (January 2010-December 2012). In this comparison, plasmaspheric electron content (PEC) contribution to the GPS-TEC has been removed. It is observed that percentage PEC contribution to the GPS-TEC varies from about ∼15% (at the noon local time) to about ∼30% (at the morning local time). From the monthly comparison of GPS-TEC with IRI-TEC, it is observed that, TEC predicted by both the models overestimates in June-2012 and underestimates TEC in November-2011, December-2011 and March-2011. For all other months IRI estimates the TEC well. From the seasonal comparison, it is observed that the peak time appears ∼1-h later than the actual peak time in Winter 2010, Summer 2011, and Equinox 2010 and 2012 (the result suggest that it may be due to discrepancies/disagreement of both the versions of the IRI model in estimating the peak density as well as the thickness and shape parameters of the electron density profiles). For the Summer season, the IRI-TEC estimates the TEC well for all the years. Further, the seasonal variation of the GPS-TEC for all the three years matches well with IRI-2012 model compared to IRI-2007 model. Also, the mean annual TEC is predicted well by both the versions of the IRI model.

Head-to-head comparison of structurally unrelated dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors in the setting of renal ischemia reperfusion injury.

PubMed

Reichetzeder, Christoph; von Websky, Karoline; Tsuprykov, Oleg; Mohagheghi Samarin, Azadeh; Falke, Luise Gabriele; Dwi Putra, Sulistyo Emantoko; Hasan, Ahmed Abdallah; Antonenko, Viktoriia; Curato, Caterina; Rippmann, Jörg; Klein, Thomas; Hocher, Berthold

2017-07-01

Results regarding protective effects of dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) inhibitors in renal ischaemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) are conflicting. Here we have compared structurally unrelated DPP4 inhibitors in a model of renal IRI. IRI was induced in uninephrectomized male rats by renal artery clamping for 30 min. The sham group was uninephrectomized but not subjected to IRI. DPP4 inhibitors or vehicle were given p.o. once daily on three consecutive days prior to IRI: linagliptin (1.5 mg·kg -1 ·day -1 ), vildagliptin (8 mg·kg -1 ·day -1 ) and sitagliptin (30 mg·kg -1 ·day -1 ). An additional group received sitagliptin until study end (before IRI: 30 mg·kg -1 ·day -1 ; after IRI: 15 mg·kg -1 ·day -1 ). Plasma-active glucagon-like peptide type 1 (GLP-1) increased threefold to fourfold in all DPP4 inhibitor groups 24 h after IRI. Plasma cystatin C, a marker of GFR, peaked 48 h after IRI. Compared with the placebo group, DPP4 inhibition did not reduce increased plasma cystatin C levels. DPP4 inhibitors ameliorated histopathologically assessed tubular damage with varying degrees of drug-specific efficacies. Renal osteopontin expression was uniformly reduced by all DPP4 inhibitors. IRI-related increased renal cytokine expression was not decreased by DPP4 inhibition. Renal DPP4 activity at study end was significantly inhibited in the linagliptin group, but only numerically reduced in the prolonged/dose-adjusted sitagliptin group. Active GLP-1 plasma levels at study end were increased only in the prolonged/dose-adjusted sitagliptin treatment group. In rats with renal IRI, DPP4 inhibition did not alter plasma cystatin C, a marker of glomerular function, but may protect against tubular damage. © 2017 The Authors. British Journal of Pharmacology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of British Pharmacological Society.

An inverse method to determine the mechanical properties of the iris in vivo

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Understanding the mechanical properties of the iris can help to have an insight into the eye diseases with abnormalities of the iris morphology. Material parameters of the iris were simply calculated relying on the ex vivo experiment. However, the mechanical response of the iris in vivo is different from that ex vivo, therefore, a method was put forward to determine the material parameters of the iris using the optimization method in combination with the finite element method based on the in vivo experiment. Material and methods Ocular hypertension was induced by rapid perfusion to the anterior chamber, during perfusion intraocular pressures in the anterior and posterior chamber were record by sensors, images of the anterior segment were captured by the ultrasonic system. The displacement of the characteristic points on the surface of the iris was calculated. A finite element model of the anterior chamber was developed using the ultrasonic image before perfusion, the multi-island genetic algorithm was employed to determine the material parameters of the iris by minimizing the difference between the finite element simulation and the experimental measurements. Results Material parameters of the iris in vivo were identified as the iris was taken as a nearly incompressible second-order Ogden solid. Values of the parameters μ1, α1, μ2 and α2 were 0.0861 ± 0.0080 MPa, 54.2546 ± 12.7180, 0.0754 ± 0.0200 MPa, and 48.0716 ± 15.7796 respectively. The stability of the inverse finite element method was verified, the sensitivity of the model parameters was investigated. Conclusion Material properties of the iris in vivo could be determined using the multi-island genetic algorithm coupled with the finite element method based on the experiment. PMID:24886660

Conventional alpha beta (αβ) T cells do not contribute to acute intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury in mice.

PubMed

Yu, Yi; Feng, Xiaoyan; Vieten, Gertrud; Dippel, Stephanie; Imvised, Tawan; Gueler, Faikah; Ure, Benno M; Kuebler, Jochen F; Klemann, Christian

2017-01-01

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is associated with significant patient mortality and morbidity. The complex cascade of IRI is incompletely understood, but inflammation is known to be a key mediator. In addition to the predominant innate immune responses, previous research has also indicated that αβ T cells contribute to IRI in various organ models. The aim of this study was to clarify the role αβ T cells play in IRI to the gut. Adult wild-type (WT) and αβ T cell-deficient mice were subjected to acute intestinal IRI with 30min ischemia followed by 4h reperfusion. The gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines was measured by qPCR, and the influx of leukocyte subpopulations in the gut was assessed via flow cytometry and histology. Pro-inflammatory cytokines in the serum were measured, and transaminases were assessed as an indicator of distant organ IRI. Intestinal IRI led to an increased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the gut tissue and an influx of leukocytes that predominantly consisted of neutrophils and macrophages. Furthermore, intestinal IRI increased serum IL-6, TNF-α, and ALT/AST levels. The αβ T cell-deficient mice did not exhibit a more significant increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines in the gut or serum following IR than the WT mice. There was also no difference between WT- and αβ T cell-deficient mice in terms of neutrophil infiltration or macrophage activation. Furthermore, the increase in transaminases was equal in both groups indicating that the level of distant organ injury was comparable. An increasing body of evidence demonstrates that αβ T cells play a key role in IRI. In the gut, however, αβ T cells are not pivotal in the first hours following acute IRI as deficiency does not impact cytokine production, neutrophil recruitment, macrophage activation, or distant organ injury. Thus, αβ T cells may be considered innocent bystanders during the acute phase of intestinal IRI.

Clinical case definition and manifestations of paradoxical tuberculosis-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome.

PubMed

Manosuthi, Weerawat; Van Tieu, Hong; Mankatitham, Wiroj; Lueangniyomkul, Aroon; Ananworanich, Jintanat; Avihingsanon, Anchalee; Siangphoe, Umaporn; Klongugkara, Sukonsri; Likanonsakul, Sirirat; Thawornwan, Unchana; Suntisuklappon, Bussakorn; Sungkanuparph, Somnuek

2009-11-27

The International Network for the Study of HIV-associated IRIS (INSHI) recently published criteria for tuberculosis-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (TB-IRIS) diagnosis. The performance of this definition and clinical manifestations of TB-IRIS were studied. Antiretroviral therapy-naive HIV/TB Thai patients receiving antituberculous therapy were enrolled during 2006-2007 and prospectively followed through 24 weeks of antiretroviral therapy. Patients were defined as having paradoxical TB-IRIS if they fulfilled the 'study definition' by French 2004 and were confirmed by an external reviewer. All were later compared by the classification according to 'INSHI-2008'. For the 126 patients, median baseline CD4 cell count was 43 cells/microl and HIV-1 RNA was 5.9 log(10) Y copies/ml. Seventy-three (58%) had extrapulmonary/disseminated TB. Twenty-two (18%) and 21 (17%) fulfilled TB-IRIS criteria according to the study definition and INSHI-2008 definition, respectively. Two (2%) were diagnosed by study definition only and one (1%) by INSHI-2008 definition only. Twenty (16%) were concordantly diagnosed by both definitions and 103 (82%) were consistently negative. Eighteen (82%) had worsening of a preexisting site, whereas four (18%) had TB-IRIS in a new location. Lymph node enlargement (73%) and fever (59%) were common in TB-IRIS. Sensitivity and specificity of INSHI-2008 was 91% (95% confidence interval, 72-98%) and 99% (95% confidence interval, 95-99.8%), respectively. Positive predictive value was 95% and negative predictive value was 98%. By multivariate analysis, factors predicting TB-IRIS were extrapulmonary TB (odds ratio, 8.63) and disseminated TB (odds ratio, 4.17). There was high concordance between the INSHI-2008 and French 2004 definition for TB-IRIS diagnosis in HIV/TB patients with relatively high rate of paradoxical TB-IRIS. This suggests that lack of HIV-1 RNA and CD4 cell count monitoring does not impede the ability to diagnose TB-IRIS.

TB-IRIS and remodelling of the T cell compartment in highly immunosuppressed HIV+ patients with TB: the CAPRI T (ANRS-12614) study

PubMed Central

Haridas, V.; Pean, P.; Jasenosky, L.D.; Madec, Y.; Laureillard, D.; Sok, T.; Sath, S.; Borand, L.; Marcy, O.; Chan, S.; Tsitsikov, E.; Delfraissy, J.-F.; Blanc, F.-X.; Goldfeld, A.E.

2015-01-01

Objective To investigate the impact of tuberculosis (TB)-associated immune reconstitution syndrome (IRIS) upon immunological recovery and the T cell compartment after initiation of TB and antiretroviral therapy (ART). Design and methods We prospectively evaluated T cell immunophenotypes by flow cytometry and cytokines by Luminex assays in a subset (n=154) of highly immunosuppressed HIV+ patients with TB from the CAMELIA randomized clinical trial. We compared findings from patients who developed TB-IRIS to findings from patients who did not develop TB-IRIS. Data were evaluated with mixed effect linear regression, Kaplan-Meier estimates, and Wilcoxon rank sum tests, and q-values were calculated to control for multiple comparisons. Results Development of TB-IRIS was associated with significantly greater pre-ART frequencies of HLA-DR+CD45RO+CD4+, CCR5+CD4+, OX40+CD4+, and Fas+ effector memory (EM) CD8+ T cells, and significantly elevated levels of plasma IL-6, IL-1β, IL-8, and IL-10 and viral load. Post-ART initiation, EM CD4+ and Fas+ EM CD4+ T cell frequencies significantly expanded, and central memory (CM) CD4+ T cell frequencies significantly contracted in patients who experienced TB-IRIS. By week 34 post-TB treatment initiation, EM/CM CD4+ T cell ratios were markedly higher in TB-IRIS versus non-TB-IRIS patients. Conclusions A distinct pattern of pre-ART T cell and cytokine markers appear to poise the immune response to develop TB-IRIS. Experience of TB-IRIS is then associated with long-term remodeling of the CD4+ T cell memory compartment towards an EM-dominated phenotype. We speculate that these pre- and post-ART TB-IRIS-associated immune parameters may contribute to superior immune control of TB/HIV co-infection and better clinical outcome. PMID:25486415

Comparison of clinical outcomes of iris fixation and scleral fixation as treatment for intraocular lens dislocation.

PubMed

Kim, Kyeong Hwan; Kim, Wan Soo

2015-09-01

To compare the efficacy and safety of iris fixation with scleral fixation in surgical repositioning of dislocated intraocular lenses (IOLs). Retrospective, consecutive, comparative interventional case series. setting: Referral hospital. Seventy-eight consecutive patients who underwent surgical repositioning of dislocated intraocular lenses using suturing to the sclera or iris. Forty-four eyes of 44 patients underwent scleral fixation and 35 eyes of 34 patients underwent iris fixation of dislocated intraocular lenses. Visual acuity, refractive stability, operation time, and perioperative complications, including recurrence of IOL dislocation. Corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) improved significantly 1 month postoperatively in both groups (P < .01 each), and remained stable for 12 months. One week postoperatively, however, CDVA improved significantly in the scleral fixation (P = .040) but not in the iris fixation (P = .058) group. The amount of refractive error significantly diminished 1 day after surgery (P = .028 in the scleral fixation and P = .046 in the iris fixation group). For the astigmatic components, Jackson crossed cylinders equivalent to conventional cylinders of positive power at axes of 0 degrees (J0) and 45 degrees (J45), J45 differed significantly in the scleral fixation and iris fixation groups (P = .009), whereas J0 was similar (P > .05). Operation time was significantly shorter (P = .0007), while immediate postoperative inflammation was significantly more severe (P = .001), in the iris fixation than in the scleral fixation group. Recurrence rates were similar (P > .05), but the mean time to recurrence was significantly shorter in the iris fixation than in the scleral fixation group (P = .031). Iris fixation and scleral fixation techniques had similar efficacy in the repositioning of dislocated intraocular lenses. Although operation time was shorter for iris fixation, it had several disadvantages, including induced astigmatism, immediate postoperative inflammation, earlier recurrence, and less stable refraction. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Spectral analysis software improves confidence in plant and soil water stable isotope analyses performed by isotope ratio infrared spectroscopy (IRIS).

PubMed

West, A G; Goldsmith, G R; Matimati, I; Dawson, T E

2011-08-30

Previous studies have demonstrated the potential for large errors to occur when analyzing waters containing organic contaminants using isotope ratio infrared spectroscopy (IRIS). In an attempt to address this problem, IRIS manufacturers now provide post-processing spectral analysis software capable of identifying samples with the types of spectral interference that compromises their stable isotope analysis. Here we report two independent tests of this post-processing spectral analysis software on two IRIS systems, OA-ICOS (Los Gatos Research Inc.) and WS-CRDS (Picarro Inc.). Following a similar methodology to a previous study, we cryogenically extracted plant leaf water and soil water and measured the δ(2)H and δ(18)O values of identical samples by isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) and IRIS. As an additional test, we analyzed plant stem waters and tap waters by IRMS and IRIS in an independent laboratory. For all tests we assumed that the IRMS value represented the "true" value against which we could compare the stable isotope results from the IRIS methods. Samples showing significant deviations from the IRMS value (>2σ) were considered to be contaminated and representative of spectral interference in the IRIS measurement. Over the two studies, 83% of plant species were considered contaminated on OA-ICOS and 58% on WS-CRDS. Post-analysis, spectra were analyzed using the manufacturer's spectral analysis software, in order to see if the software correctly identified contaminated samples. In our tests the software performed well, identifying all the samples with major errors. However, some false negatives indicate that user evaluation and testing of the software are necessary. Repeat sampling of plants showed considerable variation in the discrepancies between IRIS and IRMS. As such, we recommend that spectral analysis of IRIS data must be incorporated into standard post-processing routines. Furthermore, we suggest that the results from spectral analysis be included when reporting stable isotope data from IRIS. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Ice-binding proteins confer freezing tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana.

PubMed

Bredow, Melissa; Vanderbeld, Barbara; Walker, Virginia K

2017-01-01

Lolium perenne is a freeze-tolerant perennial ryegrass capable of withstanding temperatures below -13 °C. Ice-binding proteins (IBPs) presumably help prevent damage associated with freezing by restricting the growth of ice crystals in the apoplast. We have investigated the expression, localization and in planta freezing protection capabilities of two L. perenne IBP isoforms, LpIRI2 and LpIRI3, as well as a processed IBP (LpAFP). One of these isoforms, LpIRI2, lacks a conventional signal peptide and was assumed to be a pseudogene. Nevertheless, both LpIRI2 and LpIRI3 transcripts were up-regulated following cold acclimation. LpIRI2 also demonstrated ice-binding activity when produced recombinantly in Escherichia coli. Both the LpIRI3 and LpIRI2 isoforms appeared to accumulate in the apoplast of transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana plants. In contrast, the fully processed isoform, LpAFP, remained intracellular. Transgenic plants expressing either LpIRI2 or LpIRI3 showed reduced ion leakage (12%-39%) after low-temperature treatments, and significantly improved freezing survival, while transgenic LpAFP-expressing lines did not confer substantial subzero protection. Freeze protection was further enhanced by with the introduction of more than one IBP isoform; ion leakage was reduced 26%-35% and 10% of plants survived temperatures as low as -8 °C. Our results demonstrate that apoplastic expression of multiple L. perenne IBP isoforms shows promise for providing protection to crops susceptible to freeze-induced damage. © 2016 The Authors. Plant Biotechnology Journal published by Society for Experimental Biology and The Association of Applied Biologists and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Cardiac-Specific SOCS3 Deletion Prevents In Vivo Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury through Sustained Activation of Cardioprotective Signaling Molecules.

PubMed

Nagata, Takanobu; Yasukawa, Hideo; Kyogoku, Sachiko; Oba, Toyoharu; Takahashi, Jinya; Nohara, Shoichiro; Minami, Tomoko; Mawatari, Kazutoshi; Sugi, Yusuke; Shimozono, Koutatsu; Pradervand, Sylvain; Hoshijima, Masahiko; Aoki, Hiroki; Fukumoto, Yoshihiro; Imaizumi, Tsutomu

2015-01-01

Myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) adversely affects cardiac performance and the prognosis of patients with acute myocardial infarction. Although myocardial signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3 is potently cardioprotective during IRI, the inhibitory mechanism responsible for its activation is largely unknown. The present study aimed to investigate the role of the myocardial suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS)-3, an intrinsic negative feedback regulator of the Janus kinase (JAK)-STAT signaling pathway, in the development of myocardial IRI. Myocardial IRI was induced in mice by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery for 1 h, followed by different reperfusion times. One hour after reperfusion, the rapid expression of JAK-STAT-activating cytokines was observed. We precisely evaluated the phosphorylation of cardioprotective signaling molecules and the expression of SOCS3 during IRI and then induced myocardial IRI in wild-type and cardiac-specific SOCS3 knockout mice (SOCS3-CKO). The activation of STAT3, AKT, and ERK1/2 rapidly peaked and promptly decreased during IRI. This decrease correlated with the induction of SOCS3 expression up to 24 h after IRI in wild-type mice. The infarct size 24 h after reperfusion was significantly reduced in SOCS3-CKO compared with wild-type mice. In SOCS3-CKO mice, STAT3, AKT, and ERK1/2 phosphorylation was sustained, myocardial apoptosis was prevented, and the expression of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family member myeloid cell leukemia-1 (Mcl-1) was augmented. Cardiac-specific SOCS3 deletion led to the sustained activation of cardioprotective signaling molecules including and prevented myocardial apoptosis and injury during IRI. Our findings suggest that SOCS3 may represent a key factor that exacerbates the development of myocardial IRI.

Cardiac-Specific SOCS3 Deletion Prevents In Vivo Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury through Sustained Activation of Cardioprotective Signaling Molecules

PubMed Central

Nagata, Takanobu; Yasukawa, Hideo; Kyogoku, Sachiko; Oba, Toyoharu; Takahashi, Jinya; Nohara, Shoichiro; Minami, Tomoko; Mawatari, Kazutoshi; Sugi, Yusuke; Shimozono, Koutatsu; Pradervand, Sylvain; Hoshijima, Masahiko; Aoki, Hiroki; Fukumoto, Yoshihiro; Imaizumi, Tsutomu

2015-01-01

Myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) adversely affects cardiac performance and the prognosis of patients with acute myocardial infarction. Although myocardial signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3 is potently cardioprotective during IRI, the inhibitory mechanism responsible for its activation is largely unknown. The present study aimed to investigate the role of the myocardial suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS)-3, an intrinsic negative feedback regulator of the Janus kinase (JAK)-STAT signaling pathway, in the development of myocardial IRI. Myocardial IRI was induced in mice by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery for 1 h, followed by different reperfusion times. One hour after reperfusion, the rapid expression of JAK-STAT–activating cytokines was observed. We precisely evaluated the phosphorylation of cardioprotective signaling molecules and the expression of SOCS3 during IRI and then induced myocardial IRI in wild-type and cardiac-specific SOCS3 knockout mice (SOCS3-CKO). The activation of STAT3, AKT, and ERK1/2 rapidly peaked and promptly decreased during IRI. This decrease correlated with the induction of SOCS3 expression up to 24 h after IRI in wild-type mice. The infarct size 24 h after reperfusion was significantly reduced in SOCS3-CKO compared with wild-type mice. In SOCS3-CKO mice, STAT3, AKT, and ERK1/2 phosphorylation was sustained, myocardial apoptosis was prevented, and the expression of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family member myeloid cell leukemia-1 (Mcl-1) was augmented. Cardiac-specific SOCS3 deletion led to the sustained activation of cardioprotective signaling molecules including and prevented myocardial apoptosis and injury during IRI. Our findings suggest that SOCS3 may represent a key factor that exacerbates the development of myocardial IRI. PMID:26010537

Customized humanoptics silicone iris prosthesis in eyes with posttraumatic iris loss: outcomes and complications.

PubMed

Spitzer, Martin Stephan; Nessmann, Anja; Wagner, Julia; Yoeruek, Efdal; Bartz-Schmidt, Karl Ulrich; Szurman, Peter; Szurman, Gesine B

2016-05-01

Posttraumatic partial or total iris defects often cause significant debilitating glare, photophobia, decreased vision and cosmetic problems. Currently, the best cosmetic results can be obtained with a customized silicone iris prosthesis. However, little is known about the functional results and the rate of complication if this type of iris prosthesis is implanted into severely traumatized eyes. The aim of this study is to analyse the functional and cosmetic outcomes as well as complications after Artificial Iris implantation. A consecutive series of 34 patients who received a customized silicone iris prosthesis after severe globe injury with total or sub-total iris loss was analysed retrospectively. Additionally, patients were interviewed regarding change in subjective complaints. Median follow-up was 24 months (range 12.0-48.8). Mean visual acuity prior to Artificial Iris implantation was 1.1 logMAR (range 0.3-2.6). Five patients (15%) had pre-existing glaucoma and eight patients (24%) had pre-existing hypotony. Visual acuity 12 months after surgery was 1.4 logMAR (range 0.2-2.6). Complications included newly diagnosed glaucoma in three eyes (9%) and hypotony in three eyes (9%), persisting intraocular inflammation or macular oedema in seven patients (21%), and corneal endothelial decompensation requiring corneal transplantation in six patients (18%). Patients' satisfaction increased by reducing glare and enhanced cosmetic appearance. The customized silicone iris prosthesis is an individualized treatment approach with appealing cosmetic results. Therefore, especially traumatized eyes with highly different posttraumatic conditions could benefit. However, in some patients, the implantation of this device may cause an increase of intraocular pressure, corneal endothelial decompensation or persisting inflammation. © 2016 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography for Identification of Iris Vasculature and Staging of Iris Neovascularization: A Pilot Study.

PubMed

Roberts, Philipp K; Goldstein, Debra A; Fawzi, Amani A

2017-08-01

Purpose/Aim of the study: To assess the ability of optical coherence tomographic angiography (OCTA) to visualize the normal iris vasculature as well as neovascularization of the iris (NVI). Study participants with healthy eyes, patients at risk of NVI development and patients with active or regressed NVI were consecutively included in this cross-sectional observational study. Imaging was performed using a commercially available OCTA system (RTVue- XR Avanti, Optovue Inc., Fremont, CA, USA). Abnormal iris vessels were graded on OCTA according to a modified clinical staging system and compared to slitlamp and gonioscopic findings. Fifty eyes of 26 study participants (16 healthy eyes, 19 eyes at risk, 15 eyes with different stages of NVI) were imaged using OCTA. In 11 out of 16 healthy eyes (69%) with light or moderately dark iris pigmentation, we observed physiological, radially aligned iris vasculature on OCTA imaging, which could not be visualized in five eyes (31%) with darkly pigmented irides. One eye in the "eyes at risk" group was diagnosed with NVI based on OCTA, which was not observed clinically. Fifteen eyes with clinically active or regressed NVI were imaged. Different stages of NVI could be differentiated by OCTA, corresponding well to an established clinical grading system. Four eyes showed regressed NVI by OCTA, not seen clinically, and were graded as a newly defined stage 4. This pilot clinical study showed that OCTA for imaging of the iris vasculature in health and disease is highly dependent on iris pigmentation. Fine, clinically invisible iris vessels can be visualized by OCTA in the very early stages as well as in the regressed stage of NVI.

Iris concavity, corneal biomechanics, and their correlations with ocular biometry in a cohort of 10- to 12-year-old UK school boys: baseline data.

PubMed

Shah, Ameet; Low, Sancy; Garway-Heath, David F; Foster, Paul J; Barton, Keith

2014-04-17

Pigment dispersion syndrome is associated with iris concavity. This study investigated the prevalence of iris concavity, defined as a measurement of ≤-0.1 mm, in a cohort of 10- to 12-year-old boys, and explored the relationship between iris curvature and anterior segment biometry. Associations with corneal biomechanical parameters also were explored. A cohort of school boys (n = 96) was recruited from a local school. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) was performed under accommodative and nonaccommodative conditions, and iris curvature quantified. Corneal hysteresis (CH) and corneal resistance factor (CRF) were measured with the ocular response analyzer (ORA). Noncontact axial biometry was performed using laser interferometry. The prevalence of iris concavity was 24% on distance fixation, increasing to 65% on accommodation. Variables significantly associated with nonaccommodating iris curvature were lens vault (P = 0.02) and mean keratometry (P = 0.02). For both variables acting jointly, R(2) = 0.30. Variables associated significantly with accommodating iris curvature were anterior chamber depth (P = 0.009), lens vault (P = 0.049), and mean scleral spur angle (P < 0.0001). For these three variables acting jointly, R(2) = 0.33. Significant association was found between CH and spur-to-spur distance (R(2) = 0.07, P = 0.025). Iris concavity was a common finding in this cohort and related to anterior segment biometric parameters. Further work is required to clarify whether anatomical differences exist between iris concavity seen in the adolescent eye and that found in adults with pigment dispersion syndrome. Copyright 2014 The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc.

Relationship between iris surface features and angle width in Asian eyes.

PubMed

Sidhartha, Elizabeth; Nongpiur, Monisha Esther; Cheung, Carol Y; He, Mingguang; Wong, Tien Yin; Aung, Tin; Cheng, Ching-Yu

2014-10-23

To examine the associations between iris surface features with anterior chamber angle width in Asian eyes. In this prospective cross-sectional study, we recruited 600 subjects from a large population-based study, the Singapore Epidemiology of Eye Diseases (SEED) study. We obtained standardized digital slit-lamp iris photographs and graded the iris crypts (by number and size), furrows (by number and circumferential extent), and color (higher grade denoting darker iris). Vertical and horizontal cross-sections of anterior chamber were imaged using anterior segment optical coherence tomography. Angle opening distance (AOD), angle recess area (ARA), and trabecular-iris space area (TISA) were measured using customized software. Associations of the angle width with the iris surface features in the subject's right eyes were assessed using linear regression analysis. A total of 464 eyes of the 464 subjects (mean age: 57.5 ± 8.6 years) had complete and gradable data for crypts and color, and 423 eyes had gradable data for furrows. After adjustment for age, sex, ethnicity, pupil size, and corneal arcus, higher crypt grade was independently associated with wider AOD750 (β [change in angle width per grade higher] = 0.018, P = 0.023), ARA750 (β = 0.022, P = 0.049), and TISA750 (β = 0.011, P = 0.019), and darker iris was associated narrower ARA750 (β = -0.025, P = 0.044) and TISA750 (β = -0.013, P = 0.011). Iris surface features, assessed and measured from slit-lamp photographs, correlated well with anterior chamber angle width; irises with more crypts and lighter color were associated with wider angle. These findings may provide another imaging modality to assess angle closure risk based on iris surface features. Copyright 2014 The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc.

Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography for Identification of Iris Vasculature and Staging of Iris Neovascularization: A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Roberts, Philipp K.; Goldstein, Debra A.; Fawzi, Amani A.

2017-01-01

Purpose/Aim of the study To assess the ability of optical coherence tomographic angiography (OCTA) to visualize the normal iris vasculature as well as neovascularization of the iris (NVI). Materials and Methods Study participants with healthy eyes, patients at risk of NVI development and patients with active or regressed NVI were consecutively included in this cross-sectional observational study. Imaging was performed using a commercially available OCTA system (RTVue- XR Avanti, Optovue Inc., Fremont, CA, USA). Abnormal iris vessels were graded on OCTA according to a modified clinical staging system and compared to slitlamp and gonioscopic findings. Results Fifty eyes of 26 study participants (16 healthy eyes, 19 eyes at risk, 15 eyes with different stages of NVI) were imaged using OCTA. In 11 out of 16 healthy eyes (69%) with light or moderately dark iris pigmentation, we observed physiological, radially aligned iris vasculature on OCTA imaging, which could not be visualized in five eyes (31%) with darkly pigmented irides. One eye in the “eyes at risk” group was diagnosed with NVI based on OCTA, which was not observed clinically. Fifteen eyes with clinically active or regressed NVI were imaged. Different stages of NVI could be differentiated by OCTA, corresponding well to an established clinical grading system. Four eyes showed regressed NVI by OCTA, not seen clinically, and were graded as a newly defined stage 4. Conclusions This pilot clinical study showed that OCTA for imaging of the iris vasculature in health and disease is highly dependent on iris pigmentation. Fine, clinically invisible iris vessels can be visualized by OCTA in the very early stages as well as in the regressed stage of NVI. PMID:28441067

Real-time image-guided nasogastric feeding tube placement: A case series using Kangaroo with IRIS Technology in an ICU.

PubMed

Mizzi, Anna; Cozzi, Silvano; Beretta, Luigi; Greco, Massimiliano; Braga, Marco

2017-05-01

Pulmonary misplacement during the blind insertion of enteral feeding tubes is frequent, particularly in ventilated and neurologically impaired patients. This is probably the first clinical study using the Kangaroo Feeding Tube with IRIS technology (IRIS) which incorporates a camera designed to provide anatomic landmark visualization during insertion. The study aim was to evaluate IRIS performance during bedside gastric placement. This is the first prospective study to collect data on the use of IRIS. Twenty consecutive unconscious patients requiring enteral nutrition were recruited at a single center. IRIS placement was considered complete when a clear image of the gastric mucosa appeared. Correct placement was confirmed using a contrast-enhanced abdominal X-ray. To evaluate the device performance over time, the camera was activated every other day up to 17 d postplacement. In 7 (35%) patients, the trachea was initially visualized, requiring a second placement attempt with the same tube. The IRIS camera allowed recognition of the gastric mucosa in 18 (90%) patients. The esophagogastric junction was identified in one patient, while in a second patient the quality of visualization was poor. Contrast-enhanced X-ray confirmed the gastric placement of IRIS in all patients. IRIS allowed identification of gastric mucosa in 14 (70%) patients 3 d after placement. Performance progressively declined with time (P = 0.006, chi-square for trend). IRIS placement could have spared X-ray confirmation in almost all patients and prevented misplacement into the airway in about one third. Visualization quality needs to be improved, particularly after the first week. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Polyacetylene glycoside attenuates ischemic kidney injury by co-inhibiting inflammation, mitochondria dysfunction and lipotoxicity.

PubMed

Zhou, Yijie; Du, Dan; Liu, Shuyun; Zhao, Meng; Yuan, Yujia; Li, Lan; Chen, Younan; Lu, Yanrong; Cheng, Jingqiu; Liu, Jingping

2018-07-01

Ischemic acute kidney injury (AKI) is a serious clinical problem and no efficient therapeutics is available in clinic now. Natural polyacetylene glycosides (PGAs) had shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but their effects on kidney injury have not been evaluated. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of PGA on ischemic kidney injury in renal tubular epithelial cells (TECs) and mice. Hypoxic HK-2 cells and renal ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) mice were treated with PGA from Coreopsis tinctoria, and the cell viability, renal function, apoptosis, inflammation, mitochondrial injury, lipids metabolism were analyzed. In vitro results showed that PGA improved cell viability and reduced oxidative stress, pro-apoptotic/pro-inflammatory factors expression and NFκB activation in TECs under hypoxia/reperfusion (H/R). Moreover, PGA reduced mitochondria oxidative stress and improved ATP production, ΔΨm and mitochondria biogenesis, and inhibited lipids uptake, biosynthesis and accumulation in hypoxic TECs. In vivo, PGA significantly attenuated kidney injury and reduced blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (CREA) and urinary albumin (Alb), and increased creatinine clearance (CC) in IRI mice. PGA also decreased cell apoptosis, mitochondria oxidative stress, inflammatory response and lipid droplets accumulation, and promoted ATP generation in kidney of IRI mice. Our results proved that PGA ameliorated ischemic kidney injury via synergic anti-inflammation, mitochondria protection and anti-lipotoxicity actions, and it might be a promising multi-target therapy for ischemic AKI. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 blockade attenuates inflammatory response and improves microvascular perfusion in rat pancreas grafts.

PubMed

Preissler, Gerhard; Eichhorn, Martin; Waldner, Helmut; Winter, Hauke; Kleespies, Axel; Massberg, Steffen

2012-10-01

After pancreas transplantation (PTx), early capillary malperfusion and leukocyte recruitment indicate the manifestation of severe ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI). Oscillatory blood-flow redistribution (intermittent capillary perfusion, IP), leading to an overall decrease in erythrocyte flux, precedes complete microvascular perfusion failure with persistent blood flow cessation. We addressed the role of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) for leukocyte-endothelial interactions (LEIs) after PTx and evaluated the contribution of IP and malperfusion. Pancreas transplantation was performed in rats after 18-hour preservation, receiving either isotype-matched IgG or monoclonal anti-ICAM-1 antibodies (10 mg/kg intravenously) once before reperfusion. Leukocyte-endothelial interaction, IP, erythrocyte flux, and functional capillary density, respectively, were examined in vivo during 2-hour reperfusion. Nontransplanted animals served as controls. Tissue samples were analyzed by histomorphometry. In grafts of IgG-treated animals, IP was encountered already at an early stage after reperfusion and steadily increased over 2 hours, whereas erythrocyte flux declined continuously. In contrast, inhibition of ICAM-1 significantly improved erythrocyte flux and delayed IP appearance by 2 hours. Further, anti-ICAM-1 significantly reduced LEI and leukocyte tissue infiltration when compared to IgG; edema development was less pronounced in response to anti-ICAM-1 monoclonal antibody. Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 blockade significantly attenuates IRI via immediate reduction of LEI and concomitant improvement of capillary perfusion patterns, emphasizing its central role during IRI in PTx.

Hydrogen Sulfide Protects Renal Grafts Against Prolonged Cold Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury via Specific Mitochondrial Actions.

PubMed

Lobb, I; Jiang, J; Lian, D; Liu, W; Haig, A; Saha, M N; Torregrossa, R; Wood, M E; Whiteman, M; Sener, A

2017-02-01

Ischemia-reperfusion injury is unavoidably caused by loss and subsequent restoration of blood flow during organ procurement, and prolonged ischemia-reperfusion injury IRI results in increased rates of delayed graft function and early graft loss. The endogenously produced gasotransmitter, hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S), is a novel molecule that mitigates hypoxic tissue injury. The current study investigates the protective mitochondrial effects of H 2 S during in vivo cold storage and subsequent renal transplantation (RTx) and in vitro cold hypoxic renal injury. Donor allografts from Brown Norway rats treated with University of Wisconsin (UW) solution + H 2 S (150 μM NaSH) during prolonged (24-h) cold (4°C) storage exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) decreased acute necrotic/apoptotic injury and significantly (p < 0.05) improved function and recipient Lewis rat survival compared to UW solution alone. Treatment of rat kidney epithelial cells (NRK-52E) with the mitochondrial-targeted H 2 S donor, AP39, during in vitro cold hypoxic injury improved the protective capacity of H 2 S >1000-fold compared to similar levels of the nonspecific H 2 S donor, GYY4137 and also improved syngraft function and survival following prolonged cold storage compared to UW solution. H 2 S treatment mitigates cold IRI-associated renal injury via mitochondrial actions and could represent a novel therapeutic strategy to minimize the detrimental clinical outcomes of prolonged cold IRI during RTx. © 2016 The American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons.

Effects of processing history on the evolution of surface damage layer and dislocation substructure in large grain niobium cavities

DOE PAGES

Kang, D.; Bieler, T. R.; Compton, C.

2015-12-16

Large grain niobium (Nb) is being investigated for fabricating superconducting radiofrequency cavities as an alternative to the traditional approach using fine grain polycrystalline Nb sheets. Past studies have identified a surface damage layer on fine grain cavities due to deep drawing and demonstrated the necessity for chemical etching on the surface. However, the origin of and depth of the damage layer are not well understood, and similar exploration on large grain cavities is lacking. In this work, electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) was used to examine the cross sections at the equator and iris of a half cell deep drawn frommore » a large grain Nb ingot slice. The results indicate that the damage (identified by a high density of geometrically necessary dislocations) depends on crystal orientations, is different at the equator and iris, and is present through the full thickness of a half cell in some places. After electron backscatter diffraction, the specimens were heat treated at 800 °C or 1000 °C for two hours, and the same areas were reexamined. A more dramatic decrease in dislocation content was observed at the iris than the equator, where some regions exhibited no change. The specimens were then etched and examined again, to determine if the subsurface region behaved differently than the surface. As a result, little change in the dislocation substructure was observed, suggesting that the large grain microstructure is retained with a normal furnace anneal.« less

New techniques on the horizon: interventional radiology and interventional endoscopy of the urinary tract ('endourology').

PubMed

Berent, Allyson

2014-01-01

Interventional radiology and interventional endoscopy (IR/IE) uses contemporary imaging modalities, such as fluoroscopy and endoscopy, to perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in various body parts. The majority of IR/IE procedures currently undertaken in veterinary medicine pertain to the urinary tract, and this subspecialty has been termed 'endourology'. This technology treats diseases of the renal pelvis, ureter(s), bladder and urethra. In human medicine, endourology has overtaken traditional open urologic surgery in the past 20-30 years, and in veterinary medicine similar progress is occurring. This article presents a brief overview of some of the more common IR/IE procedures currently being performed for the treatment of urinary tract disease in veterinary patients. These techniques include percutaneous nephrolithotomy for lithotripsy of problematic nephrolithiasis, mesenchymal stem cell therapy for chronic kidney disease, sclerotherapy for the treatment of idiopathic renal hematuria, various diversion techniques for ureteral obstructions, laser lithotripsy for lower urinary tract stone disease, percutaneous cystolithotomy for removal of bladder stones, hydraulic occluder placement for refractory urinary incontinence, percutaneous cystostomy tube placement for bladder diversion, urethral stenting for benign and malignant urethral obstructions, and antegrade urethral catheterization for treatment of urethral tears. The majority of the data presented in this article is solely the experience of the author, and some of this has only been published and/or presented in abstract form or small case series. For information on traditional surgical approaches to these ailments readers are encouraged to evaluate other sources.

Glufosinate-ammonium

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Glufosinate - ammoni

Fomesafen

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Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Fomesafen ; CASRN 72

Pirimiphos-methyl

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Pirimiphos - methyl

Bromoxynil

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Prometryn

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Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Prometryn ; CASRN 72

Linuron

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Dimethoate

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Methidathion

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Phenmedipham

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Pendimethalin

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Chlorsulfuron

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Thiophanate-methyl

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Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Thiophanate - methyl

Thiram

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Benefin

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Cyhalothrin/Karate

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Triallate

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Propiconazole

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Chlorimuron-ethyl

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Cypermethrin

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Napropamide

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Difenzoquat

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Difenzoquat ; CASRN

Diphenylamine

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Diphenylamine ; CASR

Harmony

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Harmony ; CASRN 7927

Bidrin

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Bidrin ; CASRN 141 -

Pursuit

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Pursuit ; CASRN 8133

Imazalil

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Imazalil ; CASRN 355

Vinclozolin

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Vinclozolin ; CASRN

Chlorpropham

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Chlorpropham ; CASRN

Bayleton

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Bayleton ; CASRN 431

Propargite

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Propargite ; CASRN 2

Oxyfluorfen

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Oxyfluorfen ; CASRN

Amdro

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Amdro ; CASRN 67485

Sethoxydim

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Sethoxydim ; CASRN 7

Asulam

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Asulam ; CASRN 3337

Norflurazon

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Norflurazon ; CASRN

Dodine

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Dodine ; CASRN 2439

Dimethipin

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Dimethipin ; CASRN 5

Bromoxynil octanoate

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Bromoxynil octanoate

Folpet

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Folpet ; CASRN 133 -

Flurprimidol

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Flurprimidol ; CASRN

Oryzalin

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Oryzalin ; CASRN 190

Lactofen

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Lactofen ; CASRN 775

Flutolanil

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Flutolanil ; CASRN 6

Acephate

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Acephate ; CASRN 305

IRIS and the National Research Council (NRC)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Since the 2011 National Academies’ National Research Council (NRC) review of the IRIS Program's assessment of Formaldehyde, EPA and NRC have had an ongoing relationship into the improvements of developing the IRIS Assessments.

Development of IR imaging system simulator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiang, Xinglang; He, Guojing; Dong, Weike; Dong, Lu

2017-02-01

To overcome the disadvantages of the tradition semi-physical simulation and injection simulation equipment in the performance evaluation of the infrared imaging system (IRIS), a low-cost and reconfigurable IRIS simulator, which can simulate the realistic physical process of infrared imaging, is proposed to test and evaluate the performance of the IRIS. According to the theoretical simulation framework and the theoretical models of the IRIS, the architecture of the IRIS simulator is constructed. The 3D scenes are generated and the infrared atmospheric transmission effects are simulated using OGRE technology in real-time on the computer. The physical effects of the IRIS are classified as the signal response characteristic, modulation transfer characteristic and noise characteristic, and they are simulated on the single-board signal processing platform based on the core processor FPGA in real-time using high-speed parallel computation method.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Cerium Oxide and Cerium ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

On September 29, 2009, the IRIS Summary and Toxicological Review of Cerium Oxide and Cerium Compounds was finalized and loaded onto the IRIS database. The Toxicological Review of Cerium Oxide and Cerium Compounds was reviewed internally by EPA, by other federal agencies and White House Offices, by expert external peer reviewers, and by the public. In the new IRIS process, introduced by the EPA Administrator, all written comments on IRIS assessments submitted by other federal agencies and White House Offices will be made publicly available. Accordingly, interagency comments and the interagency draft of the Cerium Oxide and Cerium Compounds IRIS assessment are posted on this site. The draft Toxicological Review of Cerium Oxide and Cerium Compounds provides scientific support and rationale for the hazard identification and dose-response assessment pertaining to chronic exposure to cerium oxide and cerium compounds.

Does Iris Change Over Time?

PubMed Central

Mehrotra, Hunny; Vatsa, Mayank; Singh, Richa; Majhi, Banshidhar

2013-01-01

Iris as a biometric identifier is assumed to be stable over a period of time. However, some researchers have observed that for long time lapse, the genuine match score distribution shifts towards the impostor score distribution and the performance of iris recognition reduces. The main purpose of this study is to determine if the shift in genuine scores can be attributed to aging or not. The experiments are performed on the two publicly available iris aging databases namely, ND-Iris-Template-Aging-2008–2010 and ND-TimeLapseIris-2012 using a commercial matcher, VeriEye. While existing results are correct about increase in false rejection over time, we observe that it is primarily due to the presence of other covariates such as blur, noise, occlusion, and pupil dilation. This claim is substantiated with quality score comparison of the gallery and probe pairs. PMID:24244305

Does iris change over time?

PubMed

Mehrotra, Hunny; Vatsa, Mayank; Singh, Richa; Majhi, Banshidhar

2013-01-01

Iris as a biometric identifier is assumed to be stable over a period of time. However, some researchers have observed that for long time lapse, the genuine match score distribution shifts towards the impostor score distribution and the performance of iris recognition reduces. The main purpose of this study is to determine if the shift in genuine scores can be attributed to aging or not. The experiments are performed on the two publicly available iris aging databases namely, ND-Iris-Template-Aging-2008-2010 and ND-TimeLapseIris-2012 using a commercial matcher, VeriEye. While existing results are correct about increase in false rejection over time, we observe that it is primarily due to the presence of other covariates such as blur, noise, occlusion, and pupil dilation. This claim is substantiated with quality score comparison of the gallery and probe pairs.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Tetrahydrofuran (THF) ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

EPA is releasing the draft report, Toxicological Review of Tetrahydrofuran, that was distributed to Federal agencies and White House Offices for comment during the Science Discussion step of the IRIS Assessment Development Process. Comments received from other Federal agencies and White House Offices are provided below with external peer review panel comments. EPA is undertaking an Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for tetrahydrofuran. IRIS is an EPA database containing Agency scientific positions on potential adverse human health effects that may result from chronic (or lifetime) exposure to chemicals in the environment. IRIS contains chemical-specific summaries of qualitative and quantitative health information in support of two steps of the risk assessment paradigm, i.e., hazard identification and dose-response evaluation. IRIS assessments are used in combination with specific situational exposure assessment information to evaluate potential public health risk associated with environmental contaminants.

Comparison with IRI-PLUS and IRI-2012-TEC values of GPS-TEC values

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Atıcı, Ramazan; Saǧır, Selçuk

2016-07-01

This study presents a comparison with IRI-PLUS and IRI-2012 Total Electron Content (TEC) values of Total Electron Content (TEC) values obtained from Ankara station (39,7 N; 32,76 E) of Global Position System (GPS) of Turkey on equinox and solstice days of 2009 year. For all days, it is observed that GPS-TEC values are greater than IRI-2012-TEC values, while IRI-PLUS-TEC values are very close to GPS-TEC values. When GPS-TEC values for both equinoxes are compared, it is seen that TEC values on September equinox are greater than one on March equinox. However, it is observed that GPS-TEC values on June solstice are greater than one on December solstice. Also, the relationship between GPS-TEC values and geomagnetic indexes is investigated.

Heparin binding epidermal growth factor in renal ischaemia/reperfusion injury.

PubMed

Mulder, Gemma M; Nijboer, Willemijn N; Seelen, Marc A; Sandovici, Maria; Bos, Eelke M; Melenhorst, Wynand B W H; Trzpis, Monika; Kloosterhuis, Niels J; Visser, Lydia; Henning, Rob H; Leuvenink, Henri G D; Ploeg, Rutger J; Sunnarborg, Susan W; van Goor, Harry

2010-06-01

The epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor and its ligands are crucially involved in the renal response to ischaemia. We studied the heparin binding-epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF), a major ligand for the EGF receptor, in experimental and human ischaemia/reperfusion injury (IRI). HB-EGF mRNA and protein expression was studied in rat kidneys and cultured human tubular (HK-2) cells that were subjected to IRI and in human donor kidneys during transplantation. The effect of EGF receptor inhibition was investigated in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, urinary HB-EGF protein excretion was studied after renal transplantation. Finally, HB-EGF KO and WT mice were subjected to IRI to study the role of HB-EGF in renal injury. HB-EGF mRNA was significantly up-regulated in the early phase of IRI in rats, cells, and human donor biopsies. Treatment with PKI-166 reduces macrophage accumulation and interstitial alpha-SMA in the early phase of IRI in rats. In vitro, PKI-166 causes a marked reduction in HB-EGF-induced cellular proliferation. Urinary HB-EGF is increased after transplantation compared with control urines from healthy subjects. HB-EGF KO mice subjected to IRI revealed significantly less morphological damage after IRI, compared with WT mice. We conclude that IRI results in early induction of HB-EGF mRNA and protein in vivo and in vitro. Absence of HB-EGF and inhibition of the EGF receptor in the early phase of IRI has protective effects, suggesting a modulating role for HB-EGF.

Measurement of the temperature increase in the porcine cadaver iris during direct illumination by femtosecond laser pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Hui; Kurtz, Ronald M.; Juhasz, Tibor

2010-02-01

Multiple femtosecond lasers have now been cleared for use for ophthalmic surgery, including for creation of corneal flaps in LASIK surgery. Preliminary measurements indicated that during typical surgical use, 50-60% of laser energy may pass beyond the cornea with potential effects on the iris. To further evaluate iris laser exposure during femtosecond corneal surgery, we measured the temperature increase in porcine cadaver iris in situ during direct illumination by the iFS Advanced Femtoosecond Laser (AMO Inc. Santa Ana, CA) with an infrared thermal imaging camera. To replicate the illumination geometry of the eye during the surgery, an excised porcine cadaver iris was placed 1.5 mm from the flat glass contact lens. The temperature field was observed in twenty cadaver iris at laser pulse energy levels ranging from 1 to 2 μJ (corresponding approximately to surgical energies of 2 to 4 μJ per pulse). Temperature increases up to 2.3 °C (corresponding to 2 μJ per pulse and 24 second procedure time) were observed in the cadaver iris with little variation in temperature profiles between specimens for the same laser energy illumination. For laser pulse energy and procedure time characteristic to the iFS Advanced Femtoosecond Laser the temperature increase was measured to be 1.2 °C. Our studies suggest that the magnitude of iris heating that occurs during such femtosecond laser corneal surgery is small and does not present a safety hazard to the iris.

Modeling IrisCode and its variants as convex polyhedral cones and its security implications.

PubMed

Kong, Adams Wai-Kin

2013-03-01

IrisCode, developed by Daugman, in 1993, is the most influential iris recognition algorithm. A thorough understanding of IrisCode is essential, because over 100 million persons have been enrolled by this algorithm and many biometric personal identification and template protection methods have been developed based on IrisCode. This paper indicates that a template produced by IrisCode or its variants is a convex polyhedral cone in a hyperspace. Its central ray, being a rough representation of the original biometric signal, can be computed by a simple algorithm, which can often be implemented in one Matlab command line. The central ray is an expected ray and also an optimal ray of an objective function on a group of distributions. This algorithm is derived from geometric properties of a convex polyhedral cone but does not rely on any prior knowledge (e.g., iris images). The experimental results show that biometric templates, including iris and palmprint templates, produced by different recognition methods can be matched through the central rays in their convex polyhedral cones and that templates protected by a method extended from IrisCode can be broken into. These experimental results indicate that, without a thorough security analysis, convex polyhedral cone templates cannot be assumed secure. Additionally, the simplicity of the algorithm implies that even junior hackers without knowledge of advanced image processing and biometric databases can still break into protected templates and reveal relationships among templates produced by different recognition methods.

A new method for generating an invariant iris private key based on the fuzzy vault system.

PubMed

Lee, Youn Joo; Park, Kang Ryoung; Lee, Sung Joo; Bae, Kwanghyuk; Kim, Jaihie

2008-10-01

Cryptographic systems have been widely used in many information security applications. One main challenge that these systems have faced has been how to protect private keys from attackers. Recently, biometric cryptosystems have been introduced as a reliable way of concealing private keys by using biometric data. A fuzzy vault refers to a biometric cryptosystem that can be used to effectively protect private keys and to release them only when legitimate users enter their biometric data. In biometric systems, a critical problem is storing biometric templates in a database. However, fuzzy vault systems do not need to directly store these templates since they are combined with private keys by using cryptography. Previous fuzzy vault systems were designed by using fingerprint, face, and so on. However, there has been no attempt to implement a fuzzy vault system that used an iris. In biometric applications, it is widely known that an iris can discriminate between persons better than other biometric modalities. In this paper, we propose a reliable fuzzy vault system based on local iris features. We extracted multiple iris features from multiple local regions in a given iris image, and the exact values of the unordered set were then produced using the clustering method. To align the iris templates with the new input iris data, a shift-matching technique was applied. Experimental results showed that 128-bit private keys were securely and robustly generated by using any given iris data without requiring prealignment.

Technical note: quantitative measures of iris color using high resolution photographs.

PubMed

Edwards, Melissa; Gozdzik, Agnes; Ross, Kendra; Miles, Jon; Parra, Esteban J

2012-01-01

Our understanding of the genetic architecture of iris color is still limited. This is partly related to difficulties associated with obtaining quantitative measurements of eye color. Here we introduce a new automated method for measuring iris color using high resolution photographs. This method extracts color measurements in the CIE 1976 L*a*b* (CIELAB) color space from a 256 by 256 pixel square sampled from the 9:00 meridian of the iris. Color is defined across three dimensions: L* (the lightness coordinate), a* (the red-green coordinate), and b* (the blue-yellow coordinate). We applied this method to a sample of individuals of diverse ancestry (East Asian, European and South Asian) that was genotyped for the HERC2 rs12913832 polymorphism, which is strongly associated with blue eye color. We identified substantial variation in the CIELAB color space, not only in the European sample, but also in the East Asian and South Asian samples. As expected, rs12913832 was significantly associated with quantitative iris color measurements in subjects of European ancestry. However, this SNP was also strongly associated with iris color in the South Asian sample, although there were no participants with blue irides in this sample. The usefulness of this method is not restricted only to the study of iris pigmentation. High-resolution pictures of the iris will also make it possible to study the genetic variation involved in iris textural patterns, which show substantial heritability in human populations. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Spatial Light Modulator Would Serve As Electronic Iris

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gutow, David A.

1991-01-01

In proposed technique for controlling brightness of image formed by lens, spatial light modulator serves as segmented, electronically variable aperture. Offers several advantages: spatial light modulator controlled remotely and responds faster than motorized iris or other remotely controlled mechanical iris. Unlike iris, modulator also configured so as not to vary depth of field appreciably. Unlike lead lanthanum zirconate titanate crystal, spatial light modulator does not require high voltage.

Risk factors and frequency of tuberculosis-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome among HIV/Tuberculosis co-infected patients in Southern India.

PubMed

Vignesh, Ramachandran; Swathirajan, Chinnambedu R; Solomon, Sunil S; Shankar, Esaki Muthu; Murugavel, Kailapuri G

2017-01-01

Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) continues to be a complication in HIV/tuberculosis (TB) co-infected patients initiating highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors associated with developing IRIS to identify a possible biomarker to predict or diagnose IRIS in patients initiating HAART. A total of 175 HIV/TB co-infected patients initiating HAART were followed up longitudinally during September 2010 to May 2013 attending a HIV care clinic in Chennai. Patients were followed up longitudinally after HAART initiation and baseline demographic, laboratory parameters and treatment characteristics between patients with IRIS events and those without IRIS events were compared. Chi-square or Fisher's exact test for categorical variables and a Wilcoxon rank-sum test for continuous variables were performed using SPSS, version 12.0 software. Patients with IRIS had a significantly lower median baseline CD4+ T-cell count (P = 0.0039). There were no differences in terms of sex, CD4 T-cell %, plasma viral load, time interval between initiating ATT and HAART between the IRIS and non-IRIS patients. Low CD4+ T-cell count (<100 cells/μL) could be used as a marker to screen and monitor patients initiating HAART.

The infrared imaging spectrograph (IRIS) for TMT: overview of innovative science programs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wright, Shelley A.; Larkin, James E.; Moore, Anna M.; Do, Tuan; Simard, Luc; Adamkovics, Maté; Armus, Lee; Barth, Aaron J.; Barton, Elizabeth; Boyce, Hope; Cooke, Jeffrey; Cote, Patrick; Davidge, Timothy; Ellerbroek, Brent; Ghez, Andrea M.; Liu, Michael C.; Lu, Jessica R.; Macintosh, Bruce A.; Mao, Shude; Marois, Christian; Schoeck, Matthias; Suzuki, Ryuji; Tan, Jonathan C.; Treu, Tommaso; Wang, Lianqi; Weiss, Jason

2014-07-01

IRIS (InfraRed Imaging Spectrograph) is a first light near-infrared diffraction limited imager and integral field spectrograph being designed for the future Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT). IRIS is optimized to perform astronomical studies across a significant fraction of cosmic time, from our Solar System to distant newly formed galaxies (Barton et al. [1]). We present a selection of the innovative science cases that are unique to IRIS in the era of upcoming space and ground-based telescopes. We focus on integral field spectroscopy of directly imaged exoplanet atmospheres, probing fundamental physics in the Galactic Center, measuring 104 to 1010 M supermassive black hole masses, resolved spectroscopy of young star-forming galaxies (1 < z < 5) and first light galaxies (6 < z < 12), and resolved spectroscopy of strong gravitational lensed sources to measure dark matter substructure. For each of these science cases we use the IRIS simulator (Wright et al. [2], Do et al. [3]) to explore IRIS capabilities. To highlight the unique IRIS capabilities, we also update the point and resolved source sensitivities for the integral field spectrograph (IFS) in all five broadband filters (Z, Y, J, H, K) for the finest spatial scale of 0.004" per spaxel. We briefly discuss future development plans for the data reduction pipeline and quicklook software for the IRIS instrument suite.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Thallium and Compounds ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Thallium compounds are used in the semiconductor industry, the manufacture of optic lenses and low-melting glass, low-temperature thermometers, alloys, electronic devices, mercury lamps, fireworks, and imitation germs, and clinically as an imaging agent in the diagnosis of certain tumors. EPA's assessment of noncancer health effects and carcinogenic potential of thallium compounds was last prepared and added to the IRIS database between 1988 and 1990. The IRIS program is preparing an assessment that will incorporate current health effects information available for thallium and compounds, and current risk assessment methods. The IRIS assessment for thallium compounds will consist of a Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary. The Toxicological Review is a critical review of the physiochemical and toxicokinetic properties of a chemical, and its toxicity in humans and experimental systems. The assessment will present reference values for the noncancer effects of thallium compounds (RfD and Rfc), and a cancer assessment. The Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary have been subject to Agency review, Interagency review, and external scientific peer review. The final product will reflect the Agency opinion on the overall toxicity of thallium and compounds. EPA is undertaking an Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for thallium and compounds. IRIS is an EPA database containing Agency scientific positions on potential adverse human health effec

Appropriate Objective Functions for Quantifying Iris Mechanical Properties Using Inverse Finite Element Modeling.

PubMed

Pant, Anup D; Dorairaj, Syril K; Amini, Rouzbeh

2018-07-01

Quantifying the mechanical properties of the iris is important, as it provides insight into the pathophysiology of glaucoma. Recent ex vivo studies have shown that the mechanical properties of the iris are different in glaucomatous eyes as compared to normal ones. Notwithstanding the importance of the ex vivo studies, such measurements are severely limited for diagnosis and preclude development of treatment strategies. With the advent of detailed imaging modalities, it is possible to determine the in vivo mechanical properties using inverse finite element (FE) modeling. An inverse modeling approach requires an appropriate objective function for reliable estimation of parameters. In the case of the iris, numerous measurements such as iris chord length (CL) and iris concavity (CV) are made routinely in clinical practice. In this study, we have evaluated five different objective functions chosen based on the iris biometrics (in the presence and absence of clinical measurement errors) to determine the appropriate criterion for inverse modeling. Our results showed that in the absence of experimental measurement error, a combination of iris CL and CV can be used as the objective function. However, with the addition of measurement errors, the objective functions that employ a large number of local displacement values provide more reliable outcomes.

The International Reference Ionosphere: Rawer's IRI and its status today

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bilitza, D.

2014-11-01

When the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) initiated the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) project in 1968 it wisely selected K. Rawer as its first Chairperson. With a solid footing and good contacts in both the ground-based and space-based ionospheric communities he was ideally suited to pull together colleagues and data from both communities to help build the first version of the IRI. He assembled a team of 20+ international ionospheric experts in the IRI Working Group and chaired and directed the group from 1968 to 1984. The working group has now grown to 63 members and the IRI model has undergone many revisions as new data became available and new modeling techniques were applied. This paper was presented during a special session of the Kleinheubach Tagung 2013 in honor of K. Rawer's 100th birthday. It will review the current status of the IRI model and project and the international recognition it has achieved. It is quite fitting that this year we not only celebrate K. Rawer's 100th birthday but also the exciting news that his favorite science endeavor, IRI, has been internationally recognized as an ISO (International Standardization Organization) standard. The IRI homepage is at http://irimodel.org.

Shape Adaptive, Robust Iris Feature Extraction from Noisy Iris Images

PubMed Central

Ghodrati, Hamed; Dehghani, Mohammad Javad; Danyali, Habibolah

2013-01-01

In the current iris recognition systems, noise removing step is only used to detect noisy parts of the iris region and features extracted from there will be excluded in matching step. Whereas depending on the filter structure used in feature extraction, the noisy parts may influence relevant features. To the best of our knowledge, the effect of noise factors on feature extraction has not been considered in the previous works. This paper investigates the effect of shape adaptive wavelet transform and shape adaptive Gabor-wavelet for feature extraction on the iris recognition performance. In addition, an effective noise-removing approach is proposed in this paper. The contribution is to detect eyelashes and reflections by calculating appropriate thresholds by a procedure called statistical decision making. The eyelids are segmented by parabolic Hough transform in normalized iris image to decrease computational burden through omitting rotation term. The iris is localized by an accurate and fast algorithm based on coarse-to-fine strategy. The principle of mask code generation is to assign the noisy bits in an iris code in order to exclude them in matching step is presented in details. An experimental result shows that by using the shape adaptive Gabor-wavelet technique there is an improvement on the accuracy of recognition rate. PMID:24696801

Shape adaptive, robust iris feature extraction from noisy iris images.

PubMed

Ghodrati, Hamed; Dehghani, Mohammad Javad; Danyali, Habibolah

2013-10-01

In the current iris recognition systems, noise removing step is only used to detect noisy parts of the iris region and features extracted from there will be excluded in matching step. Whereas depending on the filter structure used in feature extraction, the noisy parts may influence relevant features. To the best of our knowledge, the effect of noise factors on feature extraction has not been considered in the previous works. This paper investigates the effect of shape adaptive wavelet transform and shape adaptive Gabor-wavelet for feature extraction on the iris recognition performance. In addition, an effective noise-removing approach is proposed in this paper. The contribution is to detect eyelashes and reflections by calculating appropriate thresholds by a procedure called statistical decision making. The eyelids are segmented by parabolic Hough transform in normalized iris image to decrease computational burden through omitting rotation term. The iris is localized by an accurate and fast algorithm based on coarse-to-fine strategy. The principle of mask code generation is to assign the noisy bits in an iris code in order to exclude them in matching step is presented in details. An experimental result shows that by using the shape adaptive Gabor-wavelet technique there is an improvement on the accuracy of recognition rate.

Comparative analysis of classification based algorithms for diabetes diagnosis using iris images.

PubMed

Samant, Piyush; Agarwal, Ravinder

2018-01-01

Photo-diagnosis is always an intriguing area for the researchers, with the advancement of image processing and computer machine vision techniques it have become more reliable and popular in recent years. The objective of this paper is to study the change in the features of iris, particularly irregularities in the pigmentation of certain areas of the iris with respect to diabetic health of an individual. Apart from the point that iris recognition concentrates on the overall structure of the iris, diagnostic techniques emphasises the local variations in the particular area of iris. Pre-image processing techniques have been applied to extract iris and thereafter, region of interest from the extracted iris have been cropped out. In order to observe the changes in the tissue pigmentation of region of interest, statistical, texture textural and wavelet features have been extracted. At the end, a comparison of accuracies of five different classifiers has been presented to classify two subject groups of diabetic and non-diabetic. Best classification accuracy has been calculated as 89.66% by the random forest classifier. Results have been shown the effectiveness and diagnostic significance of the proposed methodology. Presented piece of work offers a novel systemic perspective of non-invasive and automatic diabetic diagnosis.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Ethyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (Etbe) ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The IRIS Toxicological Review of Ethyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (ETBE) was released for external peer review in June 2017. EPA’s Science Advisory Board’s (SAB) Chemical Assessment Advisory Committee (CAAC) will conduct a peer review of the scientific basis supporting the ETBE assessment and release a final report of their review. Information regarding the peer review can be found on the SAB website. EPA is conducting an Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for Ethyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (ETBE). The outcome of this project is a Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary for ETBE that will be entered into the IRIS database.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Benzo[a]pyrene (Final Report) ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

EPA has finalized the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) assessment of benzo[a]pyrene. This assessment addresses the potential cancer and noncancer human health effects from long-term exposure to benzo[a]pyrene. Now final, this assessment will update the toxicological information on benzo[a]pyrene posted in 1987. EPA’s program and regional offices may use this assessment to inform decisions to protect human health. EPA is undertaking an update of the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for benzo[a]pyrene (BaP). The outcome of this project is an updated Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary for BaP that will be entered into the IRIS database.

IRIS Mission Operations Director's Colloquium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carvalho, Robert; Mazmanian, Edward A.

2014-01-01

Pursuing the Mysteries of the Sun: The Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) Mission. Flight controllers from the IRIS mission will present their individual experiences on IRIS from development through the first year of flight. This will begin with a discussion of the unique nature of IRISs mission and science, and how it fits into NASA's fleet of solar observatories. Next will be a discussion of the critical roles Ames contributed in the mission including spacecraft and flight software development, ground system development, and training for launch. This will be followed by experiences from launch, early operations, ongoing operations, and unusual operations experiences. The presentation will close with IRIS science imagery and questions.

A new phase-correlation-based iris matching for degraded images.

PubMed

Krichen, Emine; Garcia-Salicetti, Sonia; Dorizzi, Bernadette

2009-08-01

In this paper, we present a new phase-correlation-based iris matching approach in order to deal with degradations in iris images due to unconstrained acquisition procedures. Our matching system is a fusion of global and local Gabor phase-correlation schemes. The main originality of our local approach is that we do not only consider the correlation peak amplitudes but also their locations in different regions of the images. Results on several degraded databases, namely, the CASIA-BIOSECURE and Iris Challenge Evaluation 2005 databases, show the improvement of our method compared to two available reference systems, Masek and Open Source for Iris (OSRIS), in verification mode.

Multispectral iris recognition based on group selection and game theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmad, Foysal; Roy, Kaushik

2017-05-01

A commercially available iris recognition system uses only a narrow band of the near infrared spectrum (700-900 nm) while iris images captured in the wide range of 405 nm to 1550 nm offer potential benefits to enhance recognition performance of an iris biometric system. The novelty of this research is that a group selection algorithm based on coalition game theory is explored to select the best patch subsets. In this algorithm, patches are divided into several groups based on their maximum contribution in different groups. Shapley values are used to evaluate the contribution of patches in different groups. Results show that this group selection based iris recognition

The IRIS Data Management Center: Enabling Access to Observational Time Series Spanning Decades

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahern, T.; Benson, R.; Trabant, C.

2009-04-01

The Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS) is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) to operate the facilities to generate, archive, and distribute seismological data to research communities in the United States and internationally. The IRIS Data Management System (DMS) is responsible for the ingestion, archiving, curation and distribution of these data. The IRIS Data Management Center (DMC) manages data from more than 100 permanent seismic networks, hundreds of temporary seismic deployments as well as data from other geophysical observing networks such as magnetotelluric sensors, ocean bottom sensors, superconducting gravimeters, strainmeters, surface meteorological measurements, and in-situ atmospheric pressure measurements. The IRIS DMC has data from more than 20 different types of sensors. The IRIS DMC manages approximately 100 terabytes of primary observational data. These data are archived in multiple distributed storage systems that insure data availability independent of any single catastrophic failure. Storage systems include both RAID systems of greater than 100 terabytes as well as robotic tape robots of petabyte capacity. IRIS performs routine transcription of the data to new media and storage systems to insure the long-term viability of the scientific data. IRIS adheres to the OAIS Data Preservation Model in most cases. The IRIS data model requires the availability of metadata describing the characteristics and geographic location of sensors before data can be fully archived. IRIS works with the International Federation of Digital Seismographic Networks (FDSN) in the definition and evolution of the metadata. The metadata insures that the data remain useful to both current and future generations of earth scientists. Curation of the metadata and time series is one of the most important activities at the IRIS DMC. Data analysts and an automated quality assurance system monitor the quality of the incoming data. This insures data are of acceptably high quality. The formats and data structures used by the seismological community are esoteric. IRIS and its FDSN partners are developing web services that can transform the data holdings to structures that are more easily used by broader scientific communities. For instance, atmospheric scientists are interested in using global observations of microbarograph data but that community does not understand the methods of applying instrument corrections to the observations. Web processing services under development at IRIS will transform these data in a manner that allows direct use within such analysis tools as MATLAB® already in use by that community. By continuing to develop web-service based methods of data discovery and access, IRIS is enabling broader access to its data holdings. We currently support data discovery using many of the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) web mapping services. We are involved in portal technologies to support data discovery and distribution for all data from the EarthScope project. We are working with computer scientists at several universities including the University of Washington as part of a DataNet proposal and we intend to enhance metadata, further develop ontologies, develop a Registry Service to aid in the discovery of data sets and services, and in general improve the semantic interoperability of the data managed at the IRIS DMC. Finally IRIS has been identified as one of four scientific organizations that the External Research Division of Microsoft wants to work with in the development of web services and specifically with the development of a scientific workflow engine. More specific details of current and future developments at the IRIS DMC will be included in this presentation.

Fosetyl-al

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Fosetyl - al ; CASRN

NuStar

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016NuStar ; CASRN 85509 -

Merphos oxide

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) Merphos oxide ; CASR

78 FR 55290 - Approved Recovery Plan for the Dwarf Lake Iris

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-09-10

... plans. Additional efforts will focus on improving the baseline understanding of dwarf lake iris ecology... protection and management; (6) Improve understanding of baseline dwarf lake iris ecology; and (7) Review and...

IRIS TOXICOLOGICAL REVIEW AND SUMMARY ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

EPA's assessment of the noncancer health effects and carcinogenic potential of Beryllium was added to the IRIS database in 1998. The IRIS program is updating the IRIS assessment for Beryllium. This update will incorporate health effects information published since the last assessment was prepared as well as new risk assessment methods. The IRIS assessment for Beryllium will consist of an updated Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary. The Toxicological Review is a critical review of the physicochemical and toxicokinetic properties of the chemical and its toxicity in humans and experimental systems. The assessment will present reference values for noncancer effects of Beryllium (RfD and RfC) and a cancer assessment. The Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary will be subject to internal peer consultation, Agency and Interagency review, and external scientific peer review. The final products will constitute the Agency's opinion on the toxicity of Beryllium. Beryllium is a light alkaline earth metal used in metal alloys and in high-performance products in the metallurgical, aerospace, and nuclear industries. According to the Superfund database, beryllium is found in over 300 NPL sites

Iris pigmentation as a quantitative trait: variation in populations of European, East Asian and South Asian ancestry and association with candidate gene polymorphisms.

PubMed

Edwards, Melissa; Cha, David; Krithika, S; Johnson, Monique; Cook, Gillian; Parra, Esteban J

2016-03-01

In this study, we present a new quantitative method to measure iris colour based on high-resolution photographs. We applied this method to analyse iris colour variation in a sample of individuals of East Asian, European and South Asian ancestry. We show that measuring iris colour using the coordinates of the CIELAB colour space uncovers a significant amount of variation that is not captured using conventional categorical classifications, such as 'brown', 'blue' or 'green'. We tested the association of a selected panel of polymorphisms with iris colour in each population group. Six markers showed significant associations with iris colour in the European sample, three in the South Asian sample and two in the East Asian sample. We also observed that the marker HERC2 rs12913832, which is the main determinant of 'blue' versus 'brown' iris colour in European populations, is also significantly associated with central heterochromia in the European sample. © 2015 The Authors. Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Pupillary Reconstruction and Outcome after Artificial Iris Implantation.

PubMed

Mayer, Christian S; Reznicek, Lukas; Hoffmann, Andrea E

2016-05-01

Patients with iris defects suffer from severe visual impairment, especially increased glare sensitivity and cosmetic disturbances. This constitutes a great psychological strain for those patients. Until recently, possible treatment options were iris print contact lenses, sunglasses, and simple iris prostheses. The aim of this study was to investigate structural and functional outcome parameters and patient satisfaction after implantation of this new artificial iris prosthesis. Prospective case series investigating functional results and patient satisfaction after surgical iris reconstruction. Thirty-seven consecutive patients with traumatic iris defects presenting from 2011 through 2014 underwent pupillary reconstruction with a new artificial iris implant at the Department of Ophthalmology, Technical University Munich. The custom-made, flexible silicone iris prosthesis ArtificialIris (HumanOptics, Erlangen, Germany) used in this study is a novel and innovative device in the surgical treatment of iris defects. Patients were examined before and after iris reconstruction with the iris implant placed in the ciliary sulcus. Change of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), pupillary aperture, glare, contrast sensitivity, endothelial cell density, anterior chamber depth, anterior chamber angle, and patient satisfaction were assessed. Thirty-two eyes of 32 patients (mean age, 52.9±16.0 years) were included. After implantation and during follow-up, BCVA and IOP did not change significantly (BCVA, 0.77±0.62 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [logMAR] preoperatively vs. 0.68±0.64 logMAR 1 month postoperatively [P = 0.792]; IOP, 14.94±3.55 mmHg preoperatively vs. 17.72±5.88 mmHg 1 month postoperatively [P = 0.197]). The pupillary aperture was reduced significantly (42.11±20.1 mm(2) to 8.7±0.3 mm(2); P < 0.001). Contrast sensitivity increased significantly (0.80±0.51 to 0.93±0.49; P = 0.014). Endothelial cell count revealed a significant decrease postoperatively (1949±716 per 1 mm(2) to 1841±689 per 1 mm(2); P = 0.003). Anterior chamber depth (4.03±1.06 mm preoperatively vs. 4.29±0.70 mm postoperatively; P = 0.186) and angle (43.2±13.5° preoperatively vs. 40.5±10.8° postoperatively; P = 0.772) showed no significant differences. Subjective impairment through glare (9.12±1.62 preoperatively vs. 3.07±2.29 postoperatively; P < 0.001) and cosmetic disturbance (6.33±3.21 preoperatively vs. 1.58±0.86 postoperatively; P < 0.001) improved significantly. Patient satisfaction with the overall result was 8.91±1.51 of 10 points on an analog scale. The implantation of the artificial iris is a new and effective therapeutic option for the treatment of distinctive traumatic iris defects and results in an individual, aesthetically appealing, and good functional outcome in addition to high patient satisfaction. Copyright © 2016 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

S-Ethyl dipropylthiocarbamate (EPTC)

Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Integrated Risk Information System ( IRIS ) Chemical Assessment Summary U.S . Environmental Protection Agency National Center for Environmental Assessment This IRIS Summary has been removed from the IRIS database and is available for historical reference purposes . ( July 2016 ) S - Ethyl dipropylth

IRIS Toxicological Review of Ammonia Noncancer Inhalation ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

EPA has finalized the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) Assessment of Ammonia (Noncancer Inhalation). This assessment addresses the potential noncancer human health effects from long-term inhalation exposure to ammonia. Now final, this assessment will update the current toxicological information on ammonia posted in 1991. EPA’s program and regional offices may use this assessment to inform decisions to protect human health. EPA completed the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) health assessment for ammonia. IRIS is an EPA database containing Agency scientific positions on potential adverse human health effects that may result from chronic (or lifetime) exposure to chemicals in the environment. IRIS contains chemical-specific summaries of qualitative and quantitative health information in support of two steps of the risk assessment paradigm, i.e., hazard identification and dose-response evaluation. IRIS assessments are used in combination with specific situational exposure assessment information to evaluate potential public health risk associated with environmental contaminants.

IRIS Toxicological Review of Libby Amphibole Asbestos ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

On August 25, 2011, the draft Toxicological Review of Libby Amphibole Asbestos and the charge to external peer reviewers were released for external peer review and public comment. The Toxicological Review and charge were reviewed internally by EPA and by other federal agencies and White House Offices before public release. In the new IRIS process (May 2009), introduced by the EPA Administrator, all written comments on IRIS assessments submitted by other federal agencies and White House Offices will be made publicly available. Accordingly, interagency comments and the interagency science consultation draft of the IRIS Toxicological Review of Libby Amphibole Asbestos and the charge to external peer reviewers are posted on this site. The project supports OSWER and Region 8 site clean-up and related risk management initiatives at this Superfund site. As with all IRIS assessments, the draft document will undergo agency review, OMB/interagency review and independent external peer review before being included on the IRIS data base.

Multispectral diagnostic imaging of the iris in pigment dispersion syndrome.

PubMed

Roberts, Daniel K; Lukic, Ana; Yang, Yongyi; Wilensky, Jacob T; Wernick, Miles N

2012-08-01

To determine if wavelength selection with near infrared iris imaging may enhance iris transillumination defects (ITDs) in pigment dispersion syndrome. An experimental apparatus was used to acquire iris images in 6 African-American (AA) and 6 White patients with pigment dispersion syndrome. Light-emitting diode probes of 6 different spectral bands (700 to 950 nm) were used to project light into patients' eyes. Iris patterns were photographed, ITD regions of interest were outlined, and region of interest contrasts were calculated for each spectral band. Contrasts varied as a function of wavelength (P<0.0001) for both groups, but tended to be highest in the 700 to 800 nm range. Contrasts were higher in Whites than AAs at 700 nm but the opposite was found at 810 nm (P<0.001). Optimized near infrared iris imaging may be wavelength dependent. Ideal wavelength to image ITDs in more pigmented eyes may be slightly longer than for less pigmented eyes.

IRIS Toxicological Review of 1,4-Dioxane (with Inhalation ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

On September 9, 2011, the Toxicological Review of 1,4-Dioxane (inhalation) (External Review Draft) was posted for external peer review and public comment. Subsequently, the Toxicological Review and IRIS Summary were reviewed internally by EPA and by other federal agencies and Executive Office of the President before final public release. Based on the 2009 IRIS assessment development process, all written comments on IRIS assessments submitted by other federal agencies and the Executive Office of the President will be made publicly available. Accordingly, interagency comments with EPA's response and the interagency science discussion draft of the IRIS Toxicological Review of 1,4-dioxane (with inhalation update) and the draft IRIS Summary are posted on this site. The Toxicological Review of 1,4-dioxane provides scientific support and rationale for the hazard and dose-response assessment pertaining to chronic exposure to 1,4-dioxane.

Secure and Robust Iris Recognition Using Random Projections and Sparse Representations.

PubMed

Pillai, Jaishanker K; Patel, Vishal M; Chellappa, Rama; Ratha, Nalini K

2011-09-01

Noncontact biometrics such as face and iris have additional benefits over contact-based biometrics such as fingerprint and hand geometry. However, three important challenges need to be addressed in a noncontact biometrics-based authentication system: ability to handle unconstrained acquisition, robust and accurate matching, and privacy enhancement without compromising security. In this paper, we propose a unified framework based on random projections and sparse representations, that can simultaneously address all three issues mentioned above in relation to iris biometrics. Our proposed quality measure can handle segmentation errors and a wide variety of possible artifacts during iris acquisition. We demonstrate how the proposed approach can be easily extended to handle alignment variations and recognition from iris videos, resulting in a robust and accurate system. The proposed approach includes enhancements to privacy and security by providing ways to create cancelable iris templates. Results on public data sets show significant benefits of the proposed approach.

Challenging ocular image recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pauca, V. Paúl; Forkin, Michael; Xu, Xiao; Plemmons, Robert; Ross, Arun A.

2011-06-01

Ocular recognition is a new area of biometric investigation targeted at overcoming the limitations of iris recognition performance in the presence of non-ideal data. There are several advantages for increasing the area beyond the iris, yet there are also key issues that must be addressed such as size of the ocular region, factors affecting performance, and appropriate corpora to study these factors in isolation. In this paper, we explore and identify some of these issues with the goal of better defining parameters for ocular recognition. An empirical study is performed where iris recognition methods are contrasted with texture and point operators on existing iris and face datasets. The experimental results show a dramatic recognition performance gain when additional features are considered in the presence of poor quality iris data, offering strong evidence for extending interest beyond the iris. The experiments also highlight the need for the direct collection of additional ocular imagery.

IRIS family of IRCCD thermal imagers integrating long-life cryogenic coolers, sophisticated algorithms for image enhancement, and hot points detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dupuy, Pascal; Harter, Jean

1995-09-01

Iris is a modular infrared thermal image developed by SAGEM since 1988, based on a 288 by 4 IRCCD detector. The first section of the presentation gives a description of the different modules of the IRIS thermal imager and their evolution in recent years. The second section covers the description of the major evolution, namely the integrated detector cooler assembly (IDCA), using a SOFRADIR 288 by 4 detector and a SAGEM microcooler, now integrated in the IRIS thermal imagers. The third section gives the description of two functions integrated in the IRIS thermal imager: (1) image enhancement, using a digital convolution filter, and (2) automatic hot points detection and tracking, offering an assistance to surveillance and automatic detection. The last section presents several programs for navy, air forces, and land applications for which IRIS has already been selected and achieved.