bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resolving Refractive Error After Cataract Surgery: IOL Exchange, Piggyback Lens, or LASIK
Authors: Fernández-Buenaga Roberto , Alió Jorge L. , Pérez Ardoy Andrés L. , Quesada Adrián Larrosa , Cortés Laura Pinilla , Barraquer Rafael I.
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the efficacy, predictability, and safety of three different procedures (intraocular lens [IOL] exchange, piggyback lens implantation, and LASIK) to correct residual refractive error following cataract surgery.

METHODS:

A retrospective multicenter study comprised 65 eyes of 54 patients that underwent phacoemulsification, resulting in a unacceptable final refractive error. Eyes were divided into three groups: eyes that had an IOL lens exchange (17 eyes), eyes that had a piggyback lens implanted (20 eyes), and eyes that had LASIK (28 eyes).

RESULTS:

No differences between the IOL exchange and piggyback lens groups in the spherical equivalent, sphere, or cylinder were found (
P
= .072, .436, and .081, respectively). The LASIK group showed a statistically significant reduction in spherical equivalent and refractive cylinder when compared with the IOL exchange group (
P
< .001 and
P
= .001, respectively). The LASIK group showed statistically significant reduced refractive cylinder in comparison with the piggyback lens group (
P
= .002). The median efficacy index was 0.58 (range: 0.28 to 0.93), 0.75 (range: 0.65 to 0.92), and 0.91 (range: 0.85 to 1.14) in the IOL exchange, piggyback lens, and LASIK groups, respectively. Statistically significant differences were found between the IOL exchange and LASIK groups (
P
= .004) and the piggyback lens and LASIK groups (
P
= .003). No statistically significant differences were detected in the safety index among groups (
P
= .094). The predictability (±1 diopters of final spherical equivalent) was 62.5% of eyes in the IOL exchange group, 85% of eyes in the piggyback lens group, and 100% of eyes in the LASIK group.

CONCLUSIONS:

The three procedures were effective. The LASIK group showed the best outcomes in efficacy and predictability.

[
J Refract Surg.
2013;29(10):676–683.]
Intra-eye Visual Function Comparison With and Without a Central Hole Contact Lens-Based System: Potential Applications to ICL Design
Authors: Ferrer-Blasco Teresa , García-Lázaro Santiago , Belda-Salmerón Lurdes , Albarrán-Diego César , Montés-Micó Robert
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the effects of a central hole contact lens-based design on visual performance and to compare it with the standard version of that same contact lens without the hole (non-hole scenario).

METHODS:

The visual performance of 10 myopic patients wearing either a central hole myopic contact lens or its corresponding standard version (non-hole contact lens) was assessed on the same eye. Monocular corrected distance visual acuity was measured under photopic conditions and monocular contrast sensitivity was measured under both photopic and mesopic conditions and higher-order ocular aberrations using Hartmann-Shack aberrometry. An in vitro optical analysis of both contact lenses was performed and a symptoms questionnaire was administered to the participants.

RESULTS:

No statistically significant differences in terms of corrected distance visual acuity were found: −0.091 and −0.098 logMAR for the hole and non-hole contact lenses, respectively (
P
> .05). Contrast sensitivity was comparable between lenses and no differences were found for specific spatial frequencies or a particular luminance level (
P
> .05). The hole contact lenses provided excellent outcomes, essentially equivalent to those of non-hole contact lenses, even in terms of subjective symptoms such as glare or halo. In vivo and in vitro optical quality analysis revealed no statistically significant differences between the hole and the non-hole contact lenses for either pupil size (
P
> .1).

CONCLUSION:

A contact lens having a central hole provides good visual and optical quality outcomes comparable to those yielded by the same lens without a hole. The results suggest that the impact of a central hole may be clinically negligible.

[
J Refract Surg.
2013;29(10):702–707.]
Age-Related Changes in Anterior, Posterior, and Total Corneal Astigmatism
Authors: Ueno Yuta , Hiraoka Takahiro , Beheregaray Simone , Miyazaki Maki , Ito Mutsuko , Oshika Tetsuro
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE:

To evaluate age-related changes in anterior, posterior, and total corneal astigmatism by comparing simulated keratometric astigmatism to total corneal astigmatism.

METHODS:

Corneal topography of the anterior and posterior surfaces was evaluated using three-dimensional optical coherence tomography in 419 patients with normal eyes (218 men and 201 women) with ages ranging from 8 to 93 years (mean ± standard deviation: 49.5 ± 23.1 years). Keratometric astigmatism was calculated using the keratometric index (1.3375) and radius of the anterior corneal curvature; anterior and posterior corneal curvature measurements were used to calculate total corneal astigmatism.

RESULTS:

The keratometric and total astigmatism were 1.08 ± 0.71 diopters (D) and 1.03 ± 0.69 D, respectively. Vector analysis revealed a mean difference between keratometric and total astigmatism of 0.24 ± 0.09 D, which showed a significant correlation to age (
P
< .0001). In eyes with with-the-rule astigmatism, keratometric astigmatism overestimated total astigmatism. In eyes with against-the-rule astigmatism, keratometric astigmatism underestimated total astigmatism.

CONCLUSIONS:

The anterior corneal surface shifts from with-the-rule to against-the-rule astigmatism with aging, whereas the posterior corneal surface remains as against-the-rule astigmatism in most cases. The variation in the anterior astigmatism is the most important factor contributing to this change. Total corneal astigmatism is a better predictor than keratometric astigmatism for selecting toric intraocular lenses.

[
J Refract Surg.
2014;30(3):192–197.]
Corneal Curvature Gradient Map: A New Corneal Topography Map to Predict the Corneal Healing Process
Authors: Vinciguerra Paolo , Roberts Cynthia J. , Albé Elena , Romano Mario R. , Mahmoud Ashraf , Trazza Silvia , Vinciguerra Riccardo
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE:

To evaluate a new curvature gradient topography map to predict postoperative corneal remodeling.

METHODS:

In this retrospective study, 32 eyes of 16 patients with myopia underwent excimer ablation surgery with a postoperative high curvature gradient. The new curvature gradient map (acquired immediately postoperatively) shows the difference between the curvatures of two points over the distance between them; it was compared to the tangential curvature difference map between 1 and 12 months postoperatively to determine their relationship. Corneas were divided into 12 regions for analysis: four 90°-wide sectors centered on 0°, 90°, 180°, and 270°. There were three subdivisions in each sector: central (radius: 0 to 2.75 mm), paracentral (radius: 2.75 to 3.25 mm), and peripheral (radius: 3.25 to 4.5 mm). Linear regression analysis was performed by region.

RESULTS:

The following regions had significant relationships between the initial curvature gradient and curvature difference between 1 and 12 months postoperatively: the paracentral zone of the 90° sector (
P
= .0145; R
2
= 0.1832) and both the central (
P
= .0034; R
2
= 0.2522) and paracentral (
P
= .0452; R
2
= 0.1271) zones of the 270° sector. The greatest average initial tangential curvature was in the 270° sector.

CONCLUSIONS:

The initial curvature gradient after surgery predicted change in tangential curvature over the subsequent 12 months in areas where initial tangential curvature was greatest. When the curvature gradient was high, the surface curvature modification remained in progress months after surgery.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2014;30(3):202–207.]
Dry Eye After Small Incision Lenticule Extraction and LASIK for Myopia
Authors: Xu Yesheng , Yang Yabo
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE:

To compare the effects of small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) and LASIK with either femtosecond laser or mechanical microkeratome on dry eye.

METHODS:

A total of 176 patients (338 eyes) who underwent refractive procedures for myopia were observed in this nonrandomized, interventional, prospective study. To evaluate dry eye, the Schirmer secretion test without anesthesia, tear break-up time, and the McMonnies questionnaire were used preoperatively and at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively.

RESULTS:

In all groups, there was no significant decrease in the results from the Schirmer secretion test without anesthesia after surgery. The value in the LASIK group was significantly lower than any other group at 3 and 6 months postoperatively. In all groups, the tear break-up time decreased significantly after surgery and did not return to preoperative levels within 6 months; the SMILE group time lasted significantly longer than the LASIK group at 1 month. The McMonnies score increased significantly in all groups after surgery. The preoperative levels returned within 6 months in all groups except the LASIK group. The mean McMonnies score in the SMILE group was better than other groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

Dry eye after corneal refractive surgery usually occurs transiently. The SMILE procedure had better dry eye parameters and relatively fewer subjective symptoms than LASIK.

[
J Refract Surg.
2014;30(3):186–190.]
Evaluating the Psychometric Properties of a Clinical Vocational Rehabilitation Outcome Measurement: The Assessment of Work Performance (AWP)
Authors: Fan Chia-Wei , Taylor Renée R. , Ekbladh Elin , Hemmingsson Helena , Sandqvist Jan
Published: August 2014

This study examined the validity and reliability of the Assessment of Work Performance (AWP) using Rasch analysis. The AWP was administered to 365 clients with a variety of work-related problems. Rasch analysis and principal component analysis were used to examine the appropriateness of the rating scales and unidimensionality of AWP items. The person-response validity, internal consistency, targeting appropriateness, and differential item function were also analyzed. The Rasch analysis confirmed the 4-point rating scale, and the item set met the criteria of unidimensionality. The AWP exhibited satisfactory person-response validity and internal consistency. Among the three subdomains, the targeting of item-difficulty was sufficient in the motor skills and process skills subdomains. Differential item functioning was found across gender and diagnoses. This study presented evidence to support that the AWP functioned as a reliable and valid assessment in assessing work performance.
A Preliminary Investigation of the Relationship between Sensory Processing and Social Play in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Kuhaneck Heather Miller , Britner Preston A.
Published: August 2014

There are well-documented play deficits in autism beginning with infant object and social play. To create effective interventions, the predictors of play deficits in autism must be established. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently report sensory processing difficulties including poor praxis; however, these are potential predictors of play that have not been well studied. Using a data set of 162 individuals with ASD, this study examined the direct and indirect relationships between sensory processing and social play performance via structural equation modeling. The best fitting model suggested that sensory system functions predict praxis and play in combination, providing preliminary evidence that sensory functions are related to social play in combination with praxis in children with ASD. The findings suggest future avenues for research.
Use of the Geriatric Institutional Assessment Profile: An Integrative Review
Authors: de Almeida Tavares João Paulo , da Silva Alcione Leite
Published: August 2014

The Geriatric Institutional Assessment Profile (GIAP) is a self-report survey, designed to assess a hospital’s readiness to implement a geriatric program. Considering the importance of the GIAP in delivering high-quality geriatric care, it is appropriate and relevant to conduct an integrative review about its use for the improvement of knowledge in this area. The primary aim of this study was to undertake an integrative review of the strengths and weaknesses of the GIAP and its main implications for geriatric nursing care. This integrative review was inspired by Whittemore’s method. A total of 15 articles met the criteria for review. Data analysis revealed three themes: (a) the GIAP quality metrics, (b) geriatric nursing care initiatives assessment, and (c) geriatric nursing practice environment assessment. This review revealed a high degree of specificity, conformity, appropriateness, and utility in the evaluation of nurses’ perceptions of the geriatric care, and the GIAP was considered to be a crucial tool in the development and improvement of caring for hospitalized older adults.

[Res Gerontol Nurs. 2013; 6(3):209–220.]
Initial Outcomes Following Intravitreal Ocriplasmin for Treatment of Symptomatic Vitreomacular Adhesion
Authors: Kim Brian T. , Schwartz Stephen G. , Smiddy William E. , Doshi Rishi R. , Kovach Jaclyn L. , Berrocal Audina M. , Moshfeghi Andrew A. , Fortun Jorge A.
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

When delivered via a single intravitreal injection, ocriplasmin can effect proteolytic resolution of symptomatic vitreomacular adhesion (VMA). The authors describe their initial clinical experience with ocriplasmin at a large academic center.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Retrospective review of all patients with symptomatic VMA treated with ocriplasmin from January 2013 through May 2013 at a single center.

RESULTS:

Nineteen patients with symptomatic VMA received intravitreal ocriplasmin. Eight patients (42%) exhibited resolution of VMA. Macular holes in three of six patients (50%) closed after injection. A higher proportion of VMA resolution was observed in patients with the following baseline characteristics: age less than 65 years, focal adhesions less than or equal to 1,500 μm, presence of macular hole, phakic status, and absence of epiretinal membrane.

CONCLUSION:

Initial clinical outcomes using ocriplasmin in this study are consistent with those reported in the phase 3 clinical trials. Improved clinical results can be achieved with careful case selection based on specific baseline characteristics.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2013;44:334–343.]
Comparative Study of Corneal Wetting Agents During 25-Gauge Microincision Vitrectomy Surgery Under a Noncontact Wide-Angle Viewing System
Authors: Kwon Soo Hyun , Shin Jae Pil , Kim In Taek , Park Dong Ho
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To compare the effects of corneal wetting agents during 25-gauge microincision vitrectomy surgery (MIVS) under a binocular indirect ophthalmic microscope system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This prospective, randomized, comparative study included 45 eyes undergoing 25-gauge MIVS. The randomly assigned corneal wetting agents were balanced salt solution, ProVisc, and DisCoVisc. The main outcome measures were the frequency of applications, the duration of each application, and the corneal surface status including corneal fluorescein staining score postoperatively.

RESULTS:

The mean frequency of applications was higher for balanced salt solution (13.6 ± 4.3) than ProVisc (2.7 ± 1.0) or DisCoVisc (1.7 ± 0.5) (
P
< .001). The duration of each application was longer for DisCoVisc (29.8 ± 6.0 minutes) than balanced salt solution (3.7 ± 1.1 minutes) or ProVisc (17.6 ± 3.6 minutes) (
P
< .001). The fluorescein staining score was higher for balanced salt solution until 7 days postoperatively (
P
< .001).

CONCLUSION:

ProVisc and DisCoVisc could be more effective corneal wetting agents than balanced salt solution by minimizing the frequency of intraoperative application and postoperative corneal injury.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2013;44:360–365.]
Pars Plana Vitrectomy With Multiple Transvenous Chorioretinotomies for Macular Edema Due to Retinal Vein Occlusion
Authors: Luttrull Jeffrey K. , Spink Charles J.
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To review results of vitreous surgery for branch and central retinal vein occlusion (BRVO and CRVO).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

All cases of vitrectomy with multiple transvenous chorioretinotomies for retinal vein occlusion at a vitreoretinal subspecialty practice were reviewed.

RESULTS:

Twenty eyes of 20 patients (four with BRVO and 16 with CRVO) were included. Mean time from diagnosis to surgery was 15 months, and mean postoperative follow-up was 22 months. Injections of bevacizumab or ranibizumab decreased postoperatively (
P
< .0001; Poisson regression model), while log-MAR visual acuity improved (
P
= .0396; Wilcoxon signed-rank test). Ten eyes required no further injections postoperatively, and three eyes required one postoperative injection. Macular edema expressed as OCT maximum macular thickness was significantly reduced postoperatively at 6 months and 12 months (
P
= .0077 and .0093, respectively).

CONCLUSION:

In a pilot study of retinal vein occlusion treatment, multiple transvenous chorioretinotomy surgery significantly improved visual acuity and macular edema and reduced intravitreal drug dependency. Further study is warranted.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2013;44:366–373.]
In Vivo Detection of hESC-RPE Cells via Confocal Near-Infrared Fundus Reflectance
Authors: Ribeiro Ramiro M. , Oregon Aldo , Diniz Bruno , Fernandes Rodrigo B. , Koss Michael J. , Charafeddin Wissam , Hu Yuntao , Thomas Padmaja , Thomas Biju B. , Maia Mauricio , Chader Gerald J. , Hinton David R. , Humayun Mark S.
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To investigate whether the confocal near-infrared reflectance (NIR) imaging modality could detect the in vivo presence of retinal pigment epithelium cells derived from embryonic human stem cells (hESC-RPE) implanted into the subretinal space of the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rat.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Monthly NIR images were obtained from RCS rats implanted with either hESC-RPE seeded on a parylene membrane (n = 14) or parylene membrane without cells (n = 14). Two independent, masked investigators graded the images. Histology and immunohistochemistry were performed at different time points (150, 210, and 270 postnatal days of age).

RESULTS:

NIR images revealed that an average of 20.53% of the parylene membrane area was covered by hESC-RPE. RPE-65 and TRA-1-85 confirmed the presence of human-specific RPE cells in those animals. No areas corresponding to cells were found in the group implanted with membrane only. Intergrader agreement was high (
r
= 0.89–0.92).

CONCLUSION:

The NIR mode was suitable to detect the presence of hESC-RPE seeded on a membrane and implanted into the subretinal space of the RCS rat.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2013;44:380–384.]
Focal Choroidal Excavation Associated With Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy
Authors: Say Emil Anthony T. , Jani Pooja D. , Appenzeller Matthew F. , Houghton Odette M.
Published: August 2014

A 48-year-old woman presented with blurred vision in her right eye for 6 weeks. Visual acuity was 20/300 and 20/25 in the right and left eyes, respectively. Fundus examination showed subretinal hemorrhage in the superonasal macula in the right eye, whereas the left eye was normal. Fluorescein angiography showed blocked fluorescence from hemorrhage and a round distinct hypofluorescent spot along the inferotemporal arcade. Indocyanine green angiography revealed hyperfluorescent tubular and aneurysmal dilatations consistent with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy in the superior macula. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography showed retinal pigment epithelial irregularities and detachment. Scans through the round area of hypofluorescence revealed a conforming focal choroidal excavation and thinning of the underlying choriocapillaries. Because the pathogenesis of focal choroidal excavation is currently unclear, the authors propose the possibility of an acquired etiology related to loss of choriocapillaries from perfusion abnormalities as evidenced here.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2013;44:409–411.]
Pars Plana Vitrectomy for Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Associated With Benign Retinal Tumors
Authors: Say Emil Anthony T. , Jani Pooja D. , Ulrich J. Niklas
Published: August 2014

Two patients with known histories of benign retinal tumors presented with rhegmatogenous retinal detachments (RRD) in the same eye. One had a retinocytoma and presenting vision of 20/50, while the other had congenital hypertrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium and vision of 20/30. Both had subretinal fluid accumulation in a configuration consistent with a retinal break near the tumor; however, no breaks were detected on examination or intraoperatively. Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), drainage retinotomy, fluid-air exchange, barrier laser around the tumor, and gas tamponade successfully reattached the retina in both cases. After 12 and 6 months of follow-up, respectively, final vision was 20/25 and the retina remained attached. RRD may be associated with benign retinal tumors presumably with microscopic breaks at the margins. In these cases, PPV, drainage retinotomy, fluid-air exchange, endolaser around the tumor, and gas tamponade can be effective for treatment.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2013;44:412–414.]
“Floater Scotoma” Demonstrated on Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography and Caused by Vitreous Opacification
Authors: Schwartz Stephen G. , Flynn Harry W. , Fisher Yale L.
Published: August 2014

Patients with prominent vitreous opacities may demonstrate a characteristic shadowing on the volume-scanning protocols using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. The authors present five cases of this characteristic shadowing artifact. This finding may be useful in objectively documenting the status of vitreous opacification and verifying the patient’s complaint of symptomatic floaters, a so-called “floater scotoma.”

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2013;44:415–418.]
Macular Findings in Healthy Full-term Hispanic Newborns Observed by Hand-held Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Cabrera Michelle T. , O’Connell Rachelle V. , Toth Cynthia A. , Maldonado Ramiro S. , Tran-Viet Du , Allingham Michael J. , Chiu Stephanie J. , Farsiu Sina , Maradiaga Panayotti Gabriela M. , Swamy Geeta K. , Freedman Sharon F.
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To enhance understanding of ethnically diverse normal newborn retinal morphology, the authors report spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) macular findings in healthy Hispanic newborns.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

In this IRB-approved prospective, observational case series, 20 full-term Hispanic newborns had dilated retinal examinations and imaging by hand-held SD-OCT without sedation at the Duke Birthing Center.

RESULTS:

Of 20 newborns imaged (35% male; median gestational age: 39 weeks; range: 36 to 40 weeks), two (10%) had bilateral subfoveal fluid, including one case of bilateral double subretinal fluid pockets. Three eyes of two infants (10%) had retinal macular cystoid structures (one enlarged at 1.5 months, with resolution by 3 months). These SD-OCT findings were not visible by indirect ophthalmoscopy.

CONCLUSION:

Some Hispanic newborns have sub-retinal fluid or macular cystoid structures on SD-OCT. This study expands our understanding of findings seen by SD-OCT in healthy full-term newborns of various races.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2013;44:448–454.]
Micropulse Diode Laser Treatment for Chronic Central Serous Chorioretinopathy: A Randomized Pilot Trial
Authors: Roisman Luiz , Magalhães Fernanda Pedreira , Lavinsky Daniel , Moraes Nilva , Hirai Flávio E. , Cardillo José Augusto , Farah Michel Eid
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate 810-nm subthreshold diode micropulse (SDM) laser in patients with chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Prospective, randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled pilot trial. Patients were randomized to SDM laser treatment (group 1) or sham procedure (group 2). Primary outcome measure was change in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA); secondary outcome was central macular thickness after 3 months. Laser treatment was performed along the detached area. At the 3-month visit, all patients were evaluated for re-treatment if they met re-treatment criteria.

RESULTS:

Fifteen patients were included in this study: five patients in the sham group and 10 in the treatment group. At 3 months, BCVA was significantly enhanced in the treatment group (
P
= .006) compared with the sham group (
P
= .498). All patients from the sham group needed treatment after 3 months. An improvement in central macular thickness and leakage on fluorescein angiography was noted in all treated patients (in both groups).

CONCLUSION:

In this limited-size, short-term exploratory study, SDM laser was effective in treating chronic CSC. There was no evidence of retinal damage induced by treatment.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2013;44:465–470.]
Hemorrhagic Age-Related Macular Degeneration Managed With Vitrectomy, Subretinal Injection of Tissue Plasminogen Activator, Gas Tamponade, and Upright Positioning
Authors: Kapran Ziya , Özkaya Abdullah , Uyar O. Murat
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To investigate the outcomes of vitrectomy, subretinal tissue plasminogen (tPA) injection, gas tamponade, and upright positioning in patients with hemorrhagic neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Retrospective, noncomparative case series. Records of patients who were diagnosed with submacular hemorrhage secondary to neovascular AMD and underwent treatment with the combined method between 2004 and 2010 were reviewed. The main outcome measure was the difference between preoperative and post-operative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA).

RESULTS:

In 10 eyes of 10 patients, mean preoperative and postoperative BCVA values were 1.75 and 1.23 logMAR, respectively (
P
= .011), after a mean follow-up time of 38.7 ± 26.5 months (range: 10 to 71 months). Eight of 10 patients (80%) gained at least three lines.

CONCLUSION:

In patients with hemorrhagic neovascular AMD, treatment with vitrectomy, subretinal tPA injection, gas tamponade, and upright positioning was associated with better visual outcomes than those reported for patients with untreated disease.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2013;44:471–476.]
Amniotic Membrane Corneal Buffering During Plaque Radiation Therapy for Anterior Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Semenova Ekaterina , Finger Paul T.
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To report results after amniotic membrane–protected epicorneal plaque brachytherapy for anterior uveal melanoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Sixty-three patients were treated with epicorneal radioactive plaques for 5 to 7 days. To prevent corneal damage, eye irritation, and reduce pain, 0.1-mm-thick fresh-frozen amniotic membrane grafts were interposed between the plaque and the cornea during brachytherapy. All amniotic membranes were removed at the end of brachytherapy. Patients were questioned about subjective comfort during treatment and observed for clinical outcomes.

RESULTS:

Only 4.8% of patients reported pain during brachytherapy. Short-term brachytherapy-related corneal complications including mild keratopathy, corneal epithelial defect, and edema were noted in 41.3% of patients. All corneal complications resolved within 2 weeks. No patients developed corneal melting or opacity during a mean follow-up of 28 months. Local tumor control was achieved in 95.2%.

CONCLUSION:

Amniotic membrane–buffered epicorneal plaque therapy provided comfort and excellent local tumor control.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2013;44:477–482.]
Acute Exudative Polymorphous Vitelliform Maculopathy in a Patient With Lyme Disease
Authors: Singh Ravi S.J. , Tran Lac H. , Kim Judy E.
Published: August 2014

Acute exudative polymorphous vitelli-form maculopathy (AEPVM) is a rare condition of unclear etiology that has been seen in association with respiratory and viral infections. It has also been reported as a paraneoplastic phenomenon in older individuals. The authors report the first case of AEPVM associated with Lyme disease with over 3.5 years of follow-up. Multimodality serial imaging suggested the lesions began as multiple serous detachments followed by accumulation of photoreceptor outer segments in the subretinal space that gradually resolved over time and gave rise to the characteristic fundus findings at various stages.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2013;44:493–496.]
Epiretinal Macular Edema Associated With Thick Epiretinal Membranes
Authors: Doshi Rishi R. , Lowrance Matthew D. , Kim Brian T. , Davis Janet L. , Rosenfeld Philip J.
Published: August 2014

High-resolution imaging with spectral-domain optical coherence tomography has identified an unusual group of epiretinal membranes (ERMs) in the presence of lamellar macular holes. These ERMs are unusually thick. The authors present the case of a patient with age-related macular degeneration who developed edema within a thickened ERM in both eyes after cataract surgery. The edema resolved with anti–vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy. The authors propose that the VEGF-responsive fluid within these thick ERMs arose from fibrovascular tissue derived from the retina. Further studies with histopathology will be required to determine whether neovascular tissue is present in all cases of thickened ERMs with epiretinal edema.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2013;44:508–512.]
Outcomes and Complications of Pneumatic Retinopexy Over a 12-Year Period
Authors: Modi Yasha S. , Epstein Aliza , Flynn Harry W. , Shi Wei , Smiddy William E.
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate anatomic and clinical outcomes of pneumatic retinopexy for treatment of primary retinal detachment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Noncomparative, single-center, consecutive, interventional case series evaluating all patients treated between 2000 and 2012. Patients with less than 1 month of follow-up or coexisting neovascular age-related macular degeneration, uveitis, endophthalmitis, or prior posterior segment surgery were excluded.

RESULTS:

Sixty-three eyes of 63 patients with primary retinal detachment treated with pneumatic retinopexy were included. Median follow-up was 10.3 months. Single-operation success (SOS), defined as anatomic reattachment with pneumatic retinopexy alone, occurred in 40 eyes (63%). The retina was successfully reattached in 21 of the other 23 eyes (91%) with one additional surgery. There was no difference in visual acuity outcomes between SOS and additional surgical intervention (
P
= .85). New or missed breaks were identified in 19 of 63 eyes (30%). Postoperative subretinal fluid was observed in 22 of 63 eyes (35%) and persisted at last follow-up in two of 63 eyes (3%). At final follow-up, the retina was fully attached in 97% of eyes.

CONCLUSION:

Pneumatic retinopexy remains a reasonably successful option in the management of primary retinal detachment. No difference in best corrected visual acuity outcomes in eyes achieving SOS versus those requiring additional surgery was demonstrated.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:132–137.]
Trends in Retinopathy of Prematurity Over a 5-Year Period in a Racially Diverse Population
Authors: Tsui Irena , Ebani Edward , Rosenberg Jamie B. , Angert Robert M. , Lin Juan , Mian Umar
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Retinopathy of prematurity presents differently in developing versus developed countries, which may be due to environmental as well as racial differences.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Retrospective chart review of infants screened for ROP at a single neonatal intensive care unit. Risk factors were reviewed. Main outcome measures were rates of plus disease or treatment-requiring ROP by race.

RESULTS:

The study included 497 infants screened for ROP in an urban neonatal intensive care unit. Gestational age, birth weight, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia were independent risk factors for both plus disease and treatment-requiring ROP with type 3 multivariate analysis. Self-identified white race was also a risk factor for plus disease and treatment-requiring ROP. Race was significantly associated with maternal age, multiple births, and blood transfusions.

CONCLUSION:

In the study population, white race was an independent risk factor for plus disease and ROP treatment.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:138–142.]
Meta-Analysis of Infectious Endophthalmitis After Intravitreal Injection of Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Agents
Authors: Fileta John B. , Scott Ingrid U. , Flynn Harry W.
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To investigate the rate of endophthalmitis after intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents, the spectrum of causative organisms, and associated visual acuity outcomes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

PubMed articles containing the keywords “endophthalmitis” and “intravitreal” between January 2005 and May 2012 were identified and reviewed. Inclusion criteria included article in English, more than 100 intravitreal anti-VEGF injections, and report of adverse events including endophthalmitis after intravitreal injection.

RESULTS:

Forty-three articles were analyzed. Endophthalmitis occurred after 197 of 350,535 intravitreal anti-VEGF injections (0.056%). The most common organisms isolated were coagulase-negative
Staphylococcus
(38.24%) and
Streptococcus
species (29.41%).

CONCLUSION:

The reported rate of endophthalmitis after intravitreal anti-VEGF injection is low. Coagulase-negative
Staphylococcus
and
Streptococcus
species were the most frequent causative organisms.
Streptococcus
species represent the causative organism of endophthalmitis after intravitreal VEGF injections at a higher rate than rates reported in the literature for endophthalmitis following most incisional intraocular surgeries. Among patients with endophthalmitis after intravitreal anti-VEGF injection, endophthalmitis caused by
Streptococcus
species is associated with poorer visual acuity outcomes than endophthalmitis caused by coagulase-negative
Staphylococcus
and culture-negative cases.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2014;45:143-149.]
Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Evaluation of Choroidal Melanoma and Nevus Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy Incision Sites
Authors: Murray Timothy G. , Gold Aaron S. , Markoe Arnold M. , Wildner Andrea , Latiff Azeema , Bermudez Ernesto , Ehlies Fiona
Published: August 2014

The authors present three cases in which spectral-domain optical coherence tomography was used to identify fine-needle aspiration biopsy incision sites. These biopsies were performed to obtain tissue for gene expression profiling of choroidal tumors. A transvitreal route into the apex of the tumors was utilized for the biopsies while the patients underwent pars plana vitrectomy, membrane peel, laser ablation, phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation, and intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report documenting fine-needle aspiration biopsy incision wound architecture of the posterior segment with optical coherence tomography.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:165–168.]
Successful Use of Anti-VEGF Treatment for Subretinal Hemorrhage and Fluid in a Young Patient with Choroidal Osteoma
Authors: Carle Michelle V. , Chu Thomas G. , Liao David , Boyer David S.
Published: August 2014

The authors report the use of an anti-VEGF agent in the resolution of subretinal fluid and hemorrhage with improvement in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in a patient with choroidal osteoma. The reported case involves a 20-year-old man who presented with a choroidal osteoma and chronic subretinal fluid associated with hemorrhage. He was treated with six intravitreal doses of bevacizumab over a 13-month period. The fluid resolved and his BCVA improved with these treatments. Intravitreal bevacizumab can be used to successfully treat subretinal fluid associated with choroidal osteomas and may lead to an improvement in BCVA.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:169–171.]
Retinoschisis in the Setting of Coats’ Disease
Authors: Yannuzzi Nicolas A. , Tzu Jonathan H. , Hess Ditte J. , Berrocal Audina M.
Published: August 2014

This is a report of a 5-year-old boy who presented with an exudative retinopathy consistent with Coats’ disease. Optical coherence tomography confirmed the concurrent presence of retinoschisis in the same eye, adjacent to the areas of exudation and ischemia. Treatment with laser photocoagulation, corticosteroids, and anti-VEGF therapy led to the resolution of the schisis cavity 1 year later. This represents the second published account of retinoschisis in the setting of Coats’ disease.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:172–174.]
The Caribbean Community
Authors: Marques Joan
Published: August 2014

This chapter focuses on the Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM), a cluster of 15 countries and islands in the Caribbean region that invest ongoing efforts to establish growth and increased well-being. CARICOM is facing its share of challenges, of which two important ones include a) economic relations and b) education. With their common history as former European colonies, the Caribbean nations have traditionally focused on the USA, Canada, and Europe as their main partners. Now that the global tide is turning, it becomes increasingly important for them to change course. China, as the major global player of our times, is therefore a potential partner that Caribbean nations increasingly embrace. Even so, the challenges of their small scale and their lack of trade complementarity remain dark clouds on the Caribbean horizon. In addition, the education system in many of the member nations needs urgent and radical reinvention. This chapter shines some light on these issues.
The Role and Challenges of Consumer Research in the Dynamic Economic and Social Environment of Latin America
Authors: Knight Joseann
Published: August 2014

As Latin America moves towards 2020, consumer spending is expected to overtake resource extraction as the engine for economic growth. However, the international business community still has only a surface understanding of the peculiarities of Latin American consumers and marketplaces. More importantly, there is little academic or even practitioner-generated guidance for producing meaningful consumer research in the Latin American context. This chapter addresses some of the relevant consumer research issues and challenges in the dynamic marketplace that is Latin America and serves as a useful point of reference for international marketers and investors seeking to explore the opportunities that exist therein. The chapter also gives a brief summary of current consumption trends in Latin America, in an effort to highlight the uniqueness and dynamism that render consumer research a necessity rather than a choice for prospective entrants.
Inducascos S.A.
Authors: Robledo-Ardila Cristina , Velasquez-Montoya Marcela
Published: August 2014

Inducascos S.A. was first established in 1998 in the city of Medellín, Colombia. After a decade of instability and financial bankruptcy due to lack of capital, scarce infrastructure, and insufficient labor not only in number but also in terms of the qualification level, Inducascos became the market leader in the manufacturing and commercialization of helmets in the Colombian market. Its ability to deal with the unstable local market and the fierce competition resulting from the entry of imported products has positioned Inducascos as the leading brand of motorcycle helmets. For the last decade, the company's strategy has focused on the internationalization of the manufacturing process and the updating of the commercial strategy in order to consolidate an attractive product portfolio, which manages to offer differentiated products for a segmented market at competitive prices. This chapter explores Inducascos S.A.
Attitudes toward Bribery
Authors: McGee Robert W.
Published: August 2014

This chapter summarizes the theoretical and empirical literature on attitudes toward bribery and then proceeds to examine the opinions of 1,483 Brazilians on the issue, using the data from the most recent World Values Survey. The study finds that although Brazilians are strongly opposed to bribe-taking in general their opposition is less than absolute in many cases. An examination of some demographic variables highlights some of these cases.
A Different Kind of Investor?
Authors: Allard Gayle
Published: August 2014

After decades of limited contact, China's influence in Latin America has soared in the early part of the 21st century. China's presence in Latin America holds potential for transforming regional economies in positive and negative ways. This chapter describes Chinese Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Latin America, explores its implications, and tests whether Chinese FDI differs from global FDI in Latin America regarding corruption and resource intensity. It finds that Chinese FDI is more closely associated with countries that are more resource-abundant and are ranked as more corrupt. This could have negative implications for Latin American countries and their development as China expands.
Identification of a Novel Neutrophil Population: Proangiogenic Granulocytes in Second-Trimester Human Decidua
Authors: Amsalem Hagai , Kwan Melissa , Hazan Aleah , Zhang Jianhong , Jones Rebecca L. , Whittle Wendy , Kingdom John C. P. , Croy B. Anne , Lye Stephen J. , Dunk Caroline E.
Published: August 2014

The maternal leukocytes of the first-trimester decidua play a fundamental role in implantation and early development of the fetus and placenta, yet little is known regarding the second-trimester decidual environment. Our multicolor flow cytometric analyses of human decidual leukocytes detected an elevation in tissue resident neutrophils in the second trimester. These cells in both human and murine samples were spatially restricted to decidua basalis. In comparison with peripheral blood neutrophils (PMNs), the decidual neutrophils expressed high levels of neutrophil activation markers and the angiogenesis-related proteins: vascular endothelial growth factor-A, Arginase-1, and CCL2, similarly shown in tumor-associated neutrophils. Functional in vitro assays showed that second-trimester human decidua conditioned medium stimulated transendothelial PMN invasion, upregulated VEGFA, ARG1, CCL2, and ICAM1 mRNA levels, and increased PMN-driven in vitro angiogenesis in a CXCL8-dependent manner. This study identified a novel neutrophil population with a physiological, angiogenic role in human decidua.
Live Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Vaccine Correlate of Protection: Local Antibody Production and Concentration on the Path of Virus Entry
Authors: Li Qingsheng , Zeng Ming , Duan Lijie , Voss James E. , Smith Anthony J. , Pambuccian Stefan , Shang Liang , Wietgrefe Stephen , Southern Peter J. , Reilly Cavan S. , Skinner Pamela J. , Zupancic Mary L. , Carlis John V. , Piatak Michael , Waterman Diane , Reeves R. Keith , Masek-Hammerman Katherine , Derdeyn Cynthia A. , Alpert Michael D. , Evans David T. , Kohler Heinz , Müller Sybille , Robinson James , Lifson Jeffrey D. , Burton Dennis R. , Johnson R. Paul , Haase Ashley T.
Published: August 2014

We sought design principles for a vaccine to prevent HIV transmission to women by identifying correlates of protection conferred by a highly effective live attenuated SIV vaccine in the rhesus macaque animal model. We show that SIVmac239Δnef vaccination recruits plasma cells and induces ectopic lymphoid follicle formation beneath the mucosal epithelium in the rhesus macaque female reproductive tract. The plasma cells and ectopic follicles produce IgG Abs reactive with viral envelope glycoprotein gp41 trimers, and these Abs are concentrated on the path of virus entry by the neonatal FcR in cervical reserve epithelium and in vaginal epithelium. This local Ab production and delivery system correlated spatially and temporally with the maturation of local protection against high-dose pathogenic SIV vaginal challenge. Thus, designing vaccines to elicit production and concentration of Abs at mucosal frontlines could aid in the development of an effective vaccine to protect women against HIV-1.
Shorter or longer text in Ezekiel 6: The role of genre
Authors: Mushayabasa Godwin
Published: August 2014

The text of Ezekiel continues to present some challenges to students studying it. This is in view of what one school of thought identify in the Ezekiel text as extensive redactions and revisions, whilst another school of thought is hesitant to subject the Masoretic Text (MT) to such critical analysis. Amidst these differing viewpoints, I have discussed by means of literary analysis, the possibility that chapter 6 of Ezekiel may have been intended as a prophetic poetic message, or was later edited to conform to the genre of prophetic poetry. This is in the light of the so-called repetitions or ‘additions’ reflected in the MT if compared against the LXX, as well as the general problems associated with the Hebrew text of Ezekiel. The findings indicate that the text of Ezekiel 6 probably already had a complete theological corpus when it left the hand of the prophet Ezekiel or those who penned his words down. However, scribes saw it necessary to restructure, organise and colour the prophetic oracle in a literary form and structure they thought was necessary. This finding could be vital for solving literary and text critical problems in Ezekiel.
’n Kritiese blik op missio Dei in die lig van Efesiërs
Authors: Breed Gert
Published: August 2014

Missio Dei is ’n belangrike tegniese term in die gesprek oor die missionale taak van die kerk. Die term word egter nie konsekwent met dieselfde betekenis in die gesprek gebruik nie. Daar word selfs teenstrydige betekenisinhoude aan hierdie term geheg. Sommige gespreksgenote gebruik hierdie term sonder om duidelik te maak wat hulle spesifiek daaronder verstaan. Hierdie situasie lei tot misverstande en kan aanleiding gee tot ’n onbybelse benadering tot sending. Hierdie artikel ondersoek twee belangrike aspekte van die missio Dei-gesprek, naamlik die standpunt dat sending (missio) tot die wese van God behoort en dat Hy daarom ’n sendende God is, asook die standpunt dat sending (missio) uit die Drie-eenheid se onderlinge verhouding voortvloei. Verskillende benaderings in die missionale debat rondom die begrip missio Dei word krities ondersoek en op grond van Paulus se brief aan die Efesiërs geëvalueer. Vanuit die Efesiërbrief word ’n voorstel gemaak ten opsigte van die betekenis wat die begrip missio Dei behoort te dra asook hoe sending op die selfopenbaring van die Drie-eenheid volgens die Efesiërbrief gegrond kan word.A critical view of missio Dei in the light of Ephesians. Missio Dei is an important technical term in the discussion of the missional task of the church. In this discussion, however, the term is not used in a consistent sense. Even contrary semantic contents are associated with it. Some participants in the discussion use the term without clarifying what they understand by it. This situation causes misunderstandings and may give rise to an unbiblical approach to mission. This article investigates two important aspects of the missio Dei discourse, namely the viewpoint that mission (missio) is inherent to the nature of God, which means he is a missional God, as well as the viewpoint that mission (missio) flows from the mutual relationship in the Trinity. Different approaches in the missional debate regarding the concept of mission Dei are critically investigated and evaluated on the grounds of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians. Based on the Ephesian letter a suggestion is made with regard to what the meaning of the concept of missio Dei ought to be, as well as how mission can be based on the self-revelation of the Trinity according to the Ephesian letter.