bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intraocular Lens Implantation Procedures in Aphakic Eyes With Insufficient Capsular Support Associated With Previous Cataract Surgery
Authors: Hazar Leyla , Kara Necip , Bozkurt Ercument , Ozgurhan Engin Bilge , Demirok Ahmet
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE:

The aim was to evaluate the results of three different secondary intraocular lens implantation (IOL) procedures in aphakic eyes without capsular support

METHODS:

In this retrospective comparative case series, 90 eyes of 90 patients who underwent secondary IOL implantation for correction of aphakia were enrolled. Patients were divided into three groups based on the secondary IOL implantation procedure: anterior chamber iris-fixated IOL (AC-IFIOL), retropupillary iris-fixated IOL (RP-IFIOL), and scleral-fixated posterior chamber IOL (SF-PCIOL). The efficacy and safety of each procedure were assessed at follow-up.

RESULTS:

All eyes had aphakia caused by a previous cataract surgery. A final corrected distance visual acuity of 20/40 or better was achieved in 22 eyes (62.9%) implanted with an AC-IFIOL, in 12 eyes (50%) with an RP-IFIOL, and 18 eyes (58.1%) with an SF-PCIOL. At final visit, mean postoperative endothelial cell loss was 175 cells/mm
2
(7.2%) in the AC-IFIOL group, 255 cells/mm
2
(11.4%) in the RP-IFIOL group, and 135 cells/mm
2
(5.9%) in the AC-IFIOL group (
P
> 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

The study showed that AC-IFIOL, RP-IFIOL, and SF-PCIOL implantation had similar visual outcomes and mean corneal endothelial cell loss.

[
J Refract Surg.
2013;29(10):685–691.]
Analysis of Waveform-Derived ORA Parameters in Early Forms of Keratoconus and Normal Corneas
Authors: Ventura Bruna V. , Machado Aydano P. , Ambrósio Renato , Ribeiro Guilherme , Araújo Luana N. , Luz Allan , Lyra João Marcelo
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the Ocular Response Analyzer (ORA; Reichert Ophthalmic Instruments, Depew, NY) performance in differentiating grades I and II keratoconus from normal corneas using 41 parameters individually and to assess the effect of analyzing all parameters together.

METHODS:

This study compared the mean value of 41 ORA parameters in grades I and II keratoconus with healthy age-matched control eyes. Only eyes with a central corneal thickness between 500 and 600
μ
m were included. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was calculated for each of the 41 parameters independently and for all of the parameters together.

RESULTS:

This study included 136 eyes with normal corneas and 68 eyes with grades I and II keratoconus. When analyzed individually, four ORA parameters (p1area, p1area1, p2area, and p2area1) had an area under the curve greater than 0.900 for discriminating between both groups. The p2area was the parameter that achieved the largest area under the curve individually (0.931). The area under the curve increased to 0.978 when analyzing all parameters together.

CONCLUSION:

Alternative ORA parameters are better for differentiating grades I and II keratoconus from normal corneas than the four parameters originally available for ophthalmologists (corneal hysteresis, Goldmann-correlated intraocular pressure, corneal-compensated intraocular pressure, and corneal resistance factor). Although the ORA did not achieve 100% accuracy, the discrimination between these two groups was optimized by combining all parameters.

[
J Refract Surg.
2013;29(9):637–643.]
Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery in Pediatric Marfan Syndrome
Authors: Schultz Tim , Ezeanosike Edak , Dick H. Burkhard
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE:

To report femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery in pediatric Marfan syndrome.

METHODS:

Case report.

RESULTS:

A 10-year-old boy with ectopia lentis due to Marfan syndrome underwent femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (Catalys Precision Laser System; OptiMedica, Sunnyvale, CA) under general anesthesia. Anterior capsulotomy was performed on the decentered lens. Routine irrigation/aspiration devices were used for lens and cortex removal. Centration of the capsular bag was achieved using a Cionni scleral fixation ring. A foldable intraocular lens was implanted. A free-positioned and precise sized capsulotomy was cut by the femtosecond laser. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed within the 10 weeks of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS:

The use of a femtosecond laser has potential to perform a circular, well-centered capsulotomy for subsequent capsular tension ring and intraocular lens implantation without decentration in patients with Marfan syndrome.

[
J Refract Surg.
2013;29(9):650–652.]
Air Puff Induced Corneal Vibrations: Theoretical Simulations and Clinical Observations
Authors: Han Zhaolong , Tao Chen , Zhou Dai , Sun Yong , Zhou Chuanqing , Ren Qiushi , Roberts Cynthia J.
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE:

To investigate air puff induced corneal vibrations and their relationship to the intraocular pressure (IOP), viscoelasticity, mass, and elasticity of the cornea based on theoretical simulations and preliminary clinical observations.

METHODS:

To simulate the corneal movement during air puff deformation, a kinematic viscoelastic corneal model was developed involving the factors of corneal mass, damping coefficient, elasticity, and IOP. Different parameter values were taken to investigate how factors would affect the corneal movements. Two clinical ocular instruments, CorVis ST (Oculus Optikgeräte GmbH, Wetzlar, Germany) and the Ocular Response Analyzer (ORA; Reichert, Inc., Buffalo, NY), were employed to observe the corneal dynamical behaviors.

RESULTS:

Numerical results showed that during the air puff deformation, there would be vibrations along with the corneal deformation, and the damping viscoelastic response of the cornea had the potential to reduce the vibration amplitude. With consistent IOP, the overall vibration amplitude and inward motion depths were smaller with a stiffer cornea.

CONCLUSIONS:

A kinematic viscoelastic model of the cornea is presented to illustrate how the vibrations are associated with factors such as corneal mass, viscoelasticity, and IOP. Also, the predicted corneal vibrations during air puff deformation were confirmed by clinical observation.

[
J Refract Surg.
2014;30(3):208–213.]
The Effect of Femtosecond Laser Capsulotomy on the Development of Posterior Capsule Opacification
Authors: Kovács Illés , Kránitz Kinga , Sándor Gábor L. , Knorz Michael C. , Donnenfeld Eric D. , Nuijts Rudy M. , Nagy Zoltán Z.
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE:

To evaluate and compare the effects of femtosecond laser-assisted anterior capsulotomy and manual anterior capsulorhexis on posterior capsule opacification (PCO) development.

METHODS:

Femtosecond laser-assisted anterior capsulotomy was performed in 40 eyes of 40 patients (FS group) and manual anterior capsulorhexis was performed in 39 eyes of 39 patients (CCC group). An AcrySof one-piece hydrophobic acrylic intraocular lens (Alcon Laboratories, Inc., Fort Worth, TX) was implanted in all eyes. The PCO level was measured using Open-Access Systematic Capsule Assessment (OSCA) software 18 to 26 months after surgery. Postoperative intraocular lens position (ie, tilt and decentration) was measured using Scheimpflug images (Pentacam; Oculus Optikgeräte GmbH, Wetzlar, Germany).

RESULTS:

There was no statistically significant difference in age, axial length, and follow-up time between the two groups (
P
> .05). Vertical tilt, horizontal and total decentration of intraocular lenses, and PCO proved to be significantly higher in the CCC group (
P
= .03, .04, .03, and .01, respectively). After adjusting for axial length and follow-up time, manual anterior capsulorhexis was found to be a significant predictor of higher PCO scores in the multivariable regression model (β: 0.33; 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.65;
P
= .04). Vertical tilt affected PCO scores after adjusting for axial length and follow-up time (β: 0.07; 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.12;
P
= .02). No capsulotomies were performed during follow-up in either group.

CONCLUSIONS:

Femtosecond laser-assisted anterior capsulotomy proved to be a safe procedure for postoperative PCO rates. Due to better intraocular lens position, femtosecond laser-assisted anterior capsulotomy resulted in slightly decreased PCO scores; however, evaluating its clinical significance requires further studies.

[
J Refract Surg.
2014;30(3):154–158.]
The Role of the Mesopic Pupil on Patient-Reported Outcomes in Young Patients With Myopia 1 Month After Wavefront-Guided LASIK
Authors: Schallhorn Steven , Brown Mitch , Venter Jan , Hettinger Keith , Hannan Stephen
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE:

To determine the relationship between low-light pupil size and patient-reported outcomes 1 month after wavefront-guided LASIK in young patients with myopia.

METHODS:

Retrospective case series of 10,944 eyes of 5,563 young patients with myopia who underwent wavefront-guided LASIK (6.0-mm optical zone). Preoperative pupil size was measured under low-light conditions with an infrared pupillometer. Visual and refractive outcomes were evaluated at 1 month postoperatively. A questionnaire was administered to assess patient-reported outcomes including satisfaction with the procedure, night driving, and glare and halo visual symptoms.

RESULTS:

The average patient age was 29.8 years (range: 18 to 40 years). The mean preoperative manifest spherical equivalent of −3.49 diopters (D) (range: −0.50 to −11.75 D) was reduced to −0.04 ± 0.29 D at 1 month, with 94% of eyes achieving an uncorrected distance visual acuity of 20/20 or better. The mean low-light pupil diameter was 6.6 mm (range: 4 to 9 mm) and 1,514 patients (27.2%) had a diameter of 8 mm or larger. No correlation between pupil diameter and patient-reported outcomes was found (r range: −0.02 to 0.07). Logistic regression analysis identified postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity and postoperative manifest refraction as significant predictors of night halo complaints after wavefront-guided LASIK (
P
< .01).

CONCLUSIONS:

In this large series of young patients with myopia treated with wavefront-guided LASIK, low-light pupil diameter was not predictive of surgery satisfaction, ability to perform activities, or visual symptoms at 1 month postoperatively.

[
J Refract Surg.
2014;30(3):159–165.]
AcuTarget Measurements: Repeatability and Comparison to OPD-Scan III
Authors: Guilbert Emmanuel , Saad Alain , Gatinel Damien
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE:

To evaluate repeatability of the AcuTarget (SensoMotoric Instruments, Teltow, Germany) measurements and compare them to those obtained with the OPD-Scan III (NIDEK, Inc., Fremont, CA).

METHODS:

Measurements were taken with the AcuTarget and OPD-Scan III in 62 eyes of 31 patients. Results were compared using paired Student’s
t
tests, Pearson correlation coefficients, and 95% limits of agreement.

RESULTS:

Repeatability of the AcuTarget was good with intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.773, 0.777, and 0.780 for Purkinje-versus-pupil along the x-axis, y-axis, and chord length measurements, respectively. No statistically significant difference was observed between the AcuTarget and OPD-Scan III for Purkinje-versus-pupil measurement along the x-axis (
P
= .061) and chord length (
P
= .950). Conversely, a statistically significant difference was observed between the two systems for measurements along the y-axis (
P
< .001). No statistical difference was found between the mean of the first three acquisitions and the best acquisition obtained with the AcuTarget.

CONCLUSIONS:

Measurements provided by the AcuTarget have good repeatability and are close to those obtained with the OPD-Scan III. Although controversies remain on where to best center refractive procedures, this may help in analyzing the importance of refractive surgery centration in relation to visual acuity and visual symptoms.

[
J Refract Surg.
2014;30(3):180–185.]
Translating Action Research into Practice: Seeking Occupational Justice for People with Dementia
Authors: O'Sullivan Grace , Hocking Clare
Published: August 2014

Dementia is a critical social issue that contributes to, and is exacerbated by, occupational deprivation. This article reports the findings of an action research project undertaken to explore the daily activities of people who live with dementia in the community. Data were gathered by interviews, observations, and focus groups in community settings. The process of data gathering and analysis were reciprocally integrated. The participants, 11 people with mild to moderate dementia and their primary caregiver, prioritized the need to change the way dementia is perceived. Their rationale included other people's understanding of dementia and the social isolation they experience, resulting from a decline in opportunities to engage in daily activities. Occupational therapists have a significant role to play, encouraging and supporting people who live with dementia to maintain health and well-being by participating in occupations. Overcoming systemic issues that create barriers to occupation is vital.
A Comparison of the Play Skills of Preschool Children with and without Developmental Coordination Disorder
Authors: Kennedy-Behr Ann , Rodger Sylvia , Mickan Sharon
Published: August 2014

Play is commonly acknowledged as being important to children's development. School-aged children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) are known to be less involved in play and more socially isolated than their typically developing peers, but little is known about play of preschool children with DCD. Using a quasi-experimental design, developmental play skills and frequency in engagement in play of two independent groups of preschool children aged 4 to 6 years with (n = 32) and without (n = 31) probable DCD were compared. Play skills were assessed using the Revised Knox Preschool Play Scales and the Play Observation Scale based on 30 minutes of videotape of free play at preschool. Preschool children with probable DCD had a lower developmental play age and engaged less frequently in play than their typically developing peers. Given the importance of play, children with DCD need to be identified and supported to enable them to play at preschool similarly to their peers.
Comparing Performance within a Virtual Supermarket of Children with Traumatic Brain Injury to Typically Developing Children: A Pilot Study
Authors: Erez Neta , Weiss Patrice L. , Kizony Rachel , Rand Debbie
Published: August 2014

The purpose of this study was to determine the usability of a virtual reality environment for pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) by assessing the performance of a simple virtual shopping task and comparing their results to typically developing peers. Twenty children with TBI and 20 typically developing children, matched in age and sex, “shopped” for four items in a virtual supermarket (VMall). A short feedback questionnaire, Borg's scale of perceived exertion, and the Zoo Map subtest from the Behavioral Assessment of the Dysexecutive Syndrome for Children were also administered. All of the children were able to complete a four-item test within the VMall. Overall, good usability was obtained. A significant difference in shopping performance was found between the two groups; the mean shopping time and number of mistakes was higher for the children with TBI. The use of a short shopping test within a functional virtual environment enabled detection of poorer performance of children with TBI that may be due to executive function deficits. Because the task was enjoyable and motivating, the VMall may also be used to enhance participation in instrumental activities of daily living and play for children with TBI.
Public Transportation to Obtain Food: An Overlooked Instrumental Activity of Daily Living
Authors: Crabtree Jeffrey L. , Mushi-Brunt Christina
Published: August 2014

This study documents the need for public transportation access to nutritional food for adequate nutrition. A secondary data analysis of the 1994 National Health Interview Survey on Disability population-based survey was conducted. Controlling for age, race, and health status, results revealed that the presence of an impairment that prevents or limits use of public transportation, standing for 2 hours, sitting for 2 hours, lifting/carrying 10 pounds ( p < .001), and difficulty walking ( p = .0009) were significant in predicting whether respondents reported experiencing difficulty shopping for groceries. These significant findings were repeated when examining frequency of shopping for groceries, missing meals due to inability to go to the grocery store, running out of food due to inability to go to the grocery store, and needing help with grocery shopping. This study supports the need for occupational therapy practitioners to address public transportation deficits that compromise social participation and place people at risk for undernourishment.
Prevalence of Macular Anatomic Abnormalities in High Myopia
Authors: Henaine-Berra Andrée , Zand-Hadas Igal M. , Fromow-Guerra Jans , García-Aguirre Gerardo
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Macular anatomic abnormalities in high myopia are more frequent in the presence of posterior staphyloma. The objective was to determine the prevalence of foveoschisis, foveal detachment, vascular traction, epiretinal membrane (ERM), and macular hole (MH) in eyes with high myopia by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Prospective, observational study. Eyes with myopia greater than 8 diopters (D) were included. Results were analyzed using chi-square and Student’sttests.

RESULTS:

The study included 116 eyes of 72 patients. Mean spherical equivalent: −15.04 ± 5.33 D. Mean axial length: 28.88 ± 2.31 mm. Foveoschisis was observed in 17 eyes (14.65%), vascular traction in 17 (14.65%), ERM in 13 (11.2%), lamellar MH in two (1.72%), and posterior staphyloma in 41 (35.34%). Presence of foveoschisis, vascular traction, and ERM was more frequent in eyes with posterior staphyloma (P= .0001).

CONCLUSION:

Macular anatomic abnormalities were observed in 22.41% of eyes with high myopia and in 53.65% of eyes with posterior staphyloma.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.2013;44:140–144]
Predicting the Progression of Geographic Atrophy in Age-Related Macular Degeneration With SD-OCT En Face Imaging of the Outer Retina
Authors: Nunes Renata Portella , Gregori Giovanni , Yehoshua Zohar , Stetson Paul F. , Feuer William , Moshfeghi Andrew A. , Rosenfeld Philip J.
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) en face imaging was used to measure the growth of geographic atrophy (GA) and identify baseline anatomic changes in the outer retina in eyes with nonexudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

In this prospective study, eyes were imaged using 200 × 200 and 512 × 128 A-scan raster patterns. Outer retinal anatomy was visualized using en face imaging of a 20-μm thick slab encompassing the inner segment/outer segment (IS/OS) band.

RESULTS:

En face SD-OCT imaging of the IS/OS region revealed a bilaterally symmetrical pattern of outer retinal disruption extending beyond the borders of GA that accurately predicted the progression of GA over 1 year in 13 of 30 eyes (43.3%). In the remaining cases, the area of disruption was much larger than the area of progression.

CONCLUSION:

En face imaging of the outer retina can predict the growth of GA in some eyes. Due to the bilateral symmetry of these findings, this imaging strategy may identify a genetic subset of patients in whom photoreceptor loss precedes the progression of GA. These areas with outer retinal disruption should be followed in clinical trials designed to test treatments for dry AMD.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2013;44:344–359.]
Suction-Based Grasping Tool for Removal of Regular- and Irregular-Shaped Intraocular Foreign Bodies
Authors: Erlanger Michael S. , Velez-Montoya Raul , Mackenzie Douglas , Olson Jeffrey L.
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To describe a suction-based grasping tool for the surgical removal of irregular-shaped and nonferromagnetic intraocular foreign bodies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A surgical tool with suction capabilities, consisting of a stainless steel shaft with a plastic handle and a customizable and interchangeable suction tip, was designed in order to better engage and manipulate irregular-shaped in-traocular foreign bodies of various sizes and physical properties. The maximal suction force and surgical capabilities were assessed in the laboratory and on a cadaveric eye vitrectomy model.

RESULTS:

The suction force of the water-tight seal between the intraocular foreign body and the suction tip was estimated to be approximately 40 MN. During an open-sky vitrectomy in a porcine model, the device was successful in engaging and firmly securing foreign bodies of different sizes and shapes.

CONCLUSION:

The suction-based grasping tool enables removal of irregular-shaped and nonferromagnetic foreign bodies.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2013;44:487–489.]
Spontaneous Improvement of Macular Traction Retinal Detachment Associated With Myopic Macular Schisis
Authors: Goldman Darin R. , Duker Jay S.
Published: August 2014

High myopia can be associated with a range of pathologic changes within the macula that are now easily appreciated with optical coherence tomography. In the setting of high myopia and a macular traction retinal detachment, the expectation is for progressive worsening over time, and surgical intervention is often undertaken early. The authors present a case of spontaneous improvement of myopic macular detachment, which illustrates the potential value of an initial period of observation in this clinical setting.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2013;44:497–498.]
The Use of Pars Plana Vitrectomy in the Treatment of a Serous Retinal Detachment Secondary to Lupus Choroidopathy
Authors: Nicholson Laura , Sobrin Lucia
Published: August 2014

This report describes the use of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) in the management of a patient with a serous retinal detachment (SRD) secondary to lupus choroidopathy. Surgery was performed after anti-inflammatory treatments and laser photocoagulation failed to resolve the condition. The patient’s vision improved, and the subretinal fluid has not reaccumulated at 5 years postoperatively. The high viscosity of the subretinal fluid observed during the procedure may account for the persistence of the SRD despite control of inflammation. PPV surgery can be considered as a treatment option for patients with lupus-related SRD when anti-inflammatory medications are not successful and the subretinal fluid does not reabsorb independently.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2013;44:502–504.]
Local Control and Results of Leksell Gamma Knife Therapy for the Treatment of Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Joye Russell P. , Williams Lloyd B. , Chan Michael D. , Witkin Andre J. , Schirmer Clemens M. , Mignano John E. , Wazer David E. , Yao Kevin C. , Wu Julian K. , Duker Jay S.
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the effectiveness of Leksell Gamma Knife stereotactic radio-surgery (Elekta, Stockholm, Sweden) with respect to local tumor control, visual acuity, and radiation side effects for uveal melanoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Retrospective, non-comparative case series of 23 patients with uveal melanoma treated with Gamma Knife stereotactic radiosurgery at Tufts Medical Center from 2000 to 2012. Patients received single-fraction stereotactic radiation therapy of 20–25 gray (Gy) (mean: 21.7 Gy), primarily at the 50% isodose line. Follow-up was 4 to 121 months (median: 41.5 months). Main outcome measures included local tumor control, metastasis, visual acuity, and complications of therapy.

RESULTS:

In 21 of 23 patients (91%), local control was achieved with a single session of Gamma Knife therapy. Both patients who did not have local control, as well as a third patient (three of 23, 13%) developed liver metastases. Visual acuity was 20/200 or better in eight of 23 patients (35%) at last follow-up. Radiation side effects severe enough to cause vision loss were present in 14 of 23 patients (61%).

CONCLUSION:

Gamma Knife therapy may be an effective alternative to enucleation in patients with uveal melanoma who are deemed less satisfactory candidates for brachytherapy or wish to avoid surgery.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:125–131.]
Active Aspiration of Suprachoroidal Hemorrhage Using a Guarded Needle
Authors: Mandelcorn Efrem D. , Kitchens John W. , Fijalkowski Natalia , Moshfeghi Darius M.
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To describe a novel technique using a guarded needle to drain suprachoroidal hemorrhage.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

A guarded needle is used to drain suprachoroidal hemorrhage under direct microscope visualization. A scleral buckling sleeve is used to create a guarded 26-gauge needle to avoid over-penetration of the needle beyond the suprachoroidal space. Active extrusion can be used to drain suprachoroidal blood.

RESULTS:

The authors report two cases in which active aspiration using a guarded needle was successful in draining suprachoroidal hemorrhage without complications. In both cases, the vitreous cavity could be restored, allowing for subsequent pars plana vitrectomy.

CONCLUSION:

The technique of active aspiration using a guarded needle optimizes surgeon control of suprachoroidal hemorrhage drainage and also has the added benefit of easy transition to secondary vitrectomy after drainage has been completed.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:150–152.]
Does Technology Adoption Matter for Economic Development?
Authors: Lechman Ewa
Published: August 2014

The spread of new Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) has been recognized worldwide. ICTs are broadly perceived as tools facilitating economic growth and development, especially in backward countries. They are easy and cheap to adopt, require minimum skills for effective use, and bring opportunities for disadvantaged societies. They enable education, knowledge dissemination and sharing, and processing and storing of all kinds of information. The existence of causal relationships between technology diffusion and general economy performance is highly probable. This chapter seeks empirical evidence in existing quantitative links between the process of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) adoption and dynamics of economic growth and development in Latin American countries. The authors consider ICTs diffusion patterns in Latin American countries, approximating the diffusion process by S-shaped curves. Afterwards, they aim to detect if there is any quantitative relationship between ICTs adoption dynamics and economic growth and development, and they estimate to what extend ICTs contribute to economic growth and development. The authors hypothesize on existing statistically significant and strong links between the two. They use panel data for Latin American economies from the years 1990-2011. All necessary data are derived from World Telecommunication/ICT Indicators Database 2012 (16th edition) and World Development Indicators 2012.
Ideologies and Practices of Management in Latin America
Authors: Hartmann Andreas M. , Davila Anabella
Published: August 2014

This chapter seeks to explain the common features of the ideologies and practices of management in Latin America. Using an institutional approach, the authors show that specific historical, social, and economic conditions have shaped a certain way of management unique to this region. Latin America´s colonial heritage and its contemporary institutions have led to a hybrid managerial ideology that defines how firms interact with their local and global environments.
Technological Change and Innovation in Latin American Emerging Economies
Authors: Zapata Luis Fernando Bustamante , Hinestroza Isabel Cristina Betancur
Published: August 2014

Innovation and technology, in appropriate business environments, are considered improvement and survival tools directly related to the establishment of competitive advantages. However, this must be accompanied by a growing economy, and, in some cases, governmental policies that encourage the industry. This chapter inquires about several factors involved in the innovation and technological change of the pork industry in Antioquia, Colombia, based on original research results and other contributions of the authors. The managerial assumption is simple: free trade and strategic moves of the biggest competitors indicate that Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the pork industry must accelerate their technological change via innovation management by addressing different factors that are hindering the establishment of competitive advantages. The authors offer a possible path of action from a management perspective to support that the industry will form an oligopoly should innovation management not occur.
Business Ethics in Latin America and Its Impact on Sustained Economic Growth
Authors: Chandan Harish C.
Published: August 2014

Some of the major emerging economies in Latin America (LA) include Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru, and Mexico. The discussion themes during the 2013 World Economic Forum on Latin America included understanding the private sector's role in safeguarding business ethics, corporate social responsibility, sustainability, and concern for the environment. Inputs into business ethics include individual values, organizational culture, national culture, and local business climate, including level of corruption, ethics legislation, and governmental bureaucracy (Stajkovic & Luthans, 1997). A conceptual model of business ethics in terms of governance, processes, and stakeholders is presented. Various models of ethical decision-making processes, including the social-cognitive theory (Bandura, 1986), are reviewed. Models of ethical behavior and the influence of Hofstede cultural dimensions, religion, Internet, and social media are also reviewed. Various measures of business ethics, including the Business Ethics Index (Tsalikis, et al., 2013), the Corruption Perception Index (Transparency International, 2012), the Freedom from Corruption Index, and the Economic Freedom Index (Heritage Foundation, 2013) for LA countries are reviewed. The Business Ethics Index can be a leading indicator of economic growth (Tsalikis, et al., 2011). Good business ethics generate trust and lead to sustained economic growth (Hunt, 2012).
Chile under the Government of Sebastián Piñera
Authors: Czyżyk Dorota
Published: August 2014

The purpose of this chapter is to present the presidency of Sebastián Piñera with an emphasis on his economic policy and development plan for Chile. The chapter begins with an analysis of the 2010 presidential elections and the profile of the latest Chilean president. The chapter also presents the economic and political history of the country since Salvador Allende's rise to power in 1970 through the Pinochet regime and the government of Concertación por la Democracia. Furthermore, the milestone events of the presidency of Piñera are identified and their influence on the approval of the presidents is evaluated. The study conducted in this chapter was based on the analysis of books and scientific journals that dealt with the political and economic history of Chile. The current situation of the country was analyzed on the basis of academic articles as well as press releases and reports.
Setting the Scene for the Development of Differentiation Strategies in Emerging Markets
Authors: Fornes Gaston , Altamira Maria
Published: August 2014

This chapter analyses the differentiation strategies of Chinese Multinational Corporations (MNCs) in Latin American (LA) emerging economies. This requires an institutional theory approach (i.e., how the institutional environment in the domestic market shapes the strategies pursued in the host country). The premise is that there is a positive relationship between the home institutional environment and the policies followed in foreign investments. It does this through a qualitative analysis of data collected in in-depth interviews from a theoretical sample of six Chinese MNCs operating in LA. The analysis focuses on three main areas, the informal institutions, the domestic institutional environment as a barrier and/or facilitator, and the strategies in different institutional frameworks. The results show that China's firms in LA are at an early stage in their international marketing and expansion strategies. These companies are leveraging their price competitiveness (based mainly on low cost manufacture at home) on the differentiation and/or market strengths of local partners with whom they have developed networks of Joint Ventures (JVs) in the region. This is also the consequence of a short international experience that has resulted in weak cross-cultural awareness. In addition, at this stage these companies are mainly looking to have better access to the customers in the host market and as such are creating ad-hoc structures in each of the countries where they operate without a clear differentiation strategy. These findings are similar to those in previous works on Chinese MNCs in developed economies.
Macroeconomic Policy in Cuba
Authors: Hernández-Catá Ernesto
Published: August 2014

This chapter examines the evolution of macroeconomic policies in Cuba during the past 25 years. It analyzes the changes in fiscal policy from its wild gyrations in the early 1990s to the period of stability from 1994 to 2004, and to the crisis of 2008 and its sequel. It then examines the strategy of the Central Bank of Cuba and the tension between its anti-inflationary objective and its obligation to finance a substantial part of the fiscal deficit. It also emphasizes the need for new, modern instruments of monetary control, and the need to equip the central bank to become a lender of last resort. Finally, the chapter discusses the current multiple exchange rate system, its discriminatory nature, and its harmful effects on resource allocation, equity, and the interpretation of statistics.
Lessons Learned from Chilean Model of Innovation and Development
Authors: Juan Rock T.  , Pesakovic Gordana
Published: August 2014

In this chapter, the focus is on the Chilean economy and its development based on the innovation strategies and policies applied in the country in the last 40 years. The country's performance is compared with others countries in the region and the developed economies. The main lesson learned from the Chilean experience for the small developing countries are that a small economy can use to its benefit, competitive advantages achieved by other countries. In order to do this a country needs an open foreign policy and transparent, safe and fair business policies.
CD1dhiCD5+ B Cells Expanded by GM-CSF In Vivo Suppress Experimental Autoimmune Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Sheng Jian Rong , Quan Songhua , Soliven Betty
Published: August 2014

IL-10–competent subset within CD1dhiCD5+ B cells, also known as B10 cells, has been shown to regulate autoimmune diseases. Whether B10 cells can prevent or suppress the development of experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG) has not been studied. In this study, we investigated whether low-dose GM-CSF, which suppresses EAMG, can expand B10 cells in vivo, and whether adoptive transfer of CD1dhiCD5+ B cells would prevent or suppress EAMG. We found that treatment of EAMG mice with low-dose GM-CSF increased the proportion of CD1dhiCD5+ B cells and B10 cells. In vitro coculture studies revealed that CD1dhiCD5+ B cells altered T cell cytokine profile but did not directly inhibit T cell proliferation. In contrast, CD1dhiCD5+ B cells inhibited B cell proliferation and its autoantibody production in an IL-10–dependent manner. Adoptive transfer of CD1dhiCD5+ B cells to mice could prevent disease, as well as suppress EAMG after disease onset. This was associated with downregulation of mature dendritic cell markers and expansion of regulatory T cells resulting in the suppression of acetylcholine receptor–specific T cell and B cell responses. Thus, our data have provided significant insight into the mechanisms underlying the tolerogenic effects of B10 cells in EAMG. These observations suggest that in vivo or in vitro expansion of CD1dhiCD5+ B cells or B10 cells may represent an effective strategy in the treatment of human myasthenia gravis.
Bispecificity for Myelin and Neuronal Self-Antigens Is a Common Feature of CD4 T Cells in C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Lucca Liliana E. , Desbois Sabine , Ramadan Abdulraouf , Ben-Nun Avraham , Eisenstein Miriam , Carrié Nadège , Guéry Jean-Charles , Sette Alessandro , Nguyen Phuong , Geiger Terrence L. , Mars Lennart T. , Liblau Roland S.
Published: August 2014

The recognition of multiple ligands by a single TCR is an intrinsic feature of T cell biology, with important consequences for physiological and pathological processes. Polyspecific T cells targeting distinct self-antigens have been identified in healthy individuals as well as in the context of autoimmunity. We have previously shown that the 2D2 TCR recognizes the myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein epitope (MOG)35–55 as well as an epitope within the axonal protein neurofilament medium (NF-M15–35) in H-2b mice. In this study, we assess whether this cross-reactivity is a common feature of the MOG35–55-specific T cell response. To this end, we analyzed the CD4 T cell response of MOG35–55-immunized C57BL/6 mice for cross-reactivity with NF-M15–35. Using Ag recall responses, we established that an important proportion of MOG35–55-specific CD4 T cells also responded to NF-M15–35 in all mice tested. To study the clonality of this response, we analyzed 22 MOG35–55-specific T cell hybridomas expressing distinct TCR. Seven hybridomas were found to cross-react with NF-M15–35. Using an alanine scan of NF-M18–30 and an in silico predictive model, we dissected the molecular basis of cross-reactivity between MOG35–55 and NF-M15–35. We established that NF-M F24, R26, and V27 proved important TCR contacts. Strikingly, the identified TCR contacts are conserved within MOG38–50. Our data indicate that due to linear sequence homology, part of the MOG35–55-specific T cell repertoire of all C57BL/6 mice also recognizes NF-M15–35, with potential implications for CNS autoimmunity.
Pregnancy and Malaria Exposure Are Associated with Changes in the B Cell Pool and in Plasma Eotaxin Levels
Authors: Requena Pilar , Campo Joseph J. , Umbers Alexandra J. , Ome Maria , Wangnapi Regina , Barrios Diana , Robinson Leanne J. , Samol Paula , Rosanas-Urgell Anna , Ubillos Itziar , Mayor Alfredo , López Marta , de Lazzari Elisa , Arévalo-Herrera Myriam , Fernández-Becerra Carmen , del Portillo Hernando , Chitnis Chetan E. , Siba Peter M. , Bardají Azucena , Mueller Ivo , Rogerson Stephen , Menéndez Clara , Dobaño Carlota
Published: August 2014

Pregnancy triggers immunological changes aimed to tolerate the fetus, but its impact on B lymphocytes is poorly understood. In addition, exposure to the Plasmodium parasite is associated with altered distribution of peripheral memory B cell (MBC) subsets. To study the combined impact of high malaria exposure and pregnancy in B cell subpopulations, we analyzed PBMCs from pregnant and nonpregnant individuals from a malaria-nonendemic country (Spain) and from a high malaria-endemic country (Papua New Guinea). In the malaria-naive cohorts, pregnancy was associated with a significant expansion of all switched (IgD−) MBC and a decrease of naive B cells. Malaria-exposed women had more atypical MBC and fewer marginal zone–like MBC, and their levels correlated with both Plasmodium vivax– and Plasmodium falciparum–specific plasma IgG levels. Classical but not atypical MBC were increased in P. falciparum infections. Moreover, active atypical MBC positively correlated with proinflammatory cytokine plasma concentrations and had lower surface IgG levels than the average. Decreased plasma eotaxin (CCL11) levels were associated with pregnancy and malaria exposure and also correlated with B cell subset frequencies. Additionally, active atypical and active classical MBC expressed higher levels of eotaxin receptor CCR3 than the other B cell subsets, suggesting a chemotactic effect of eotaxin on these B cell subsets. These findings are important to understand immunity to infections like malaria that result in negative outcomes for both the mother and the newborn and may have important implications on vaccine development.
Cytological study of palpable breast lumps presenting in an Indian rural setup
Authors: Sankaye Smita Balwantrao , Dongre Suyrakant Dattatreya
Published: August 2014

Introduction: Benign as well as malignant breast lesions are quite common in Indian population. It is the second most common cancer site after cancer cervix. Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is safe, reliable, and time saving outdoor procedure with little discomfort to the patient. FNAC is useful in diagnosis and further planning of treatment without need for biopsy. The current study was carried out with aims of studying the frequency of various breast lesions on FNAC in a rural area in India and its histopathological correlation. Materials and Methods: This was 2 years prospective study carried out from May 2010 to April 2012. Physical examination of breast mass by palpation was done. Smears were stained with May-Grunwald Giemsa and Papanicolaou stain. Results: Of the 225 cases, 131 were in the benign category and 65 belonged to the malignant category, while the cytology study of 13 cases was unsatisfactory. Seventy-six cases were available for histological correlation. Of 29 cytological benign cases, 26 were confirmed as benign, but 3 turned out to be malignant. Out of 36 cytological malignant cases, 35 were confirmed as malignant. FNAC was 88.37% sensitive and 96.42% specific in diagnosing malignant lesions. Conclusion: Fine-needle aspiration cytology is a rapid and effective method for the primary categorization of palpable breast lumps into benign, malignant, atypical, suspicious, and unsatisfactory categories. Benign breast lesions are common than malignant lesions. Histological correlation indicated FNAC to be a good diagnostic tool.
Spectrum of nonhematological pediatric tumors: A clinicopathologic study of 385 cases
Authors: Punia Rajpal Singh , Mundi Irneet , Kundu Reetu , Jindal Geetanjali , Dalal Usha , Mohan Harsh
Published: August 2014

Background: The aim of this study is to understand the epidemiology of tumors in children in our region due to a paucity of studies on the histologic review of the childhood tumors in general and benign tumors in particular. Materials and Methods: The records of all the tumors diagnosed histopathologically in children <14 years of age during a period of 8-year (2005-2012) were reviewed. Results: A total of 385 tumors were seen in the age range of 1 month-14 years with 231 (60%) in boys and 154 (40%) in girls. Highest number of cases, 224 (58.18%) were in the age group of 10-14 years. Benign tumors comprised 275 (71.43%) cases while the malignant tumors accounted for 110 (28.57%) cases. In benign tumors, vascular tumors were in majority with 68 cases, while in malignant category bone tumors were most common with 36 cases. Conclusions: Although the exact incidence rate cannot be provided by this hospitalbased study, the information is useful in showing patterns of childhood tumors. We included both benign and malignant tumors, while most of the studies in the past have focused mainly on malignant tumors in children
American Society of Clinical Oncology 2014: Updates in breast and gastrointestinal cancers
Authors: Dawood Shaheenah
Published: August 2014

The last two decades have been very exciting in the realm of breast and GI oncology with a plethora of new information that has significantly impacted clinical practice. From the use of anti HER 2 agents in both the adjuvant and metastatic settings of breast cancer to the use of anti EGFR agents in the metastatic setting of colorectal cancer we have seen some significant advances in the treatment of these diseases. This year at ASCO 2014 data were presented that attempted to answer important clinical questions faced by a community oncologist in the clinic. This review focuses on important data presented for both breast and GI cancer.
Solid pseudo papillary tumor of pancreas: Presenting as acute abdomen in a female child
Authors: Pattanshetti Vishwanath M. , Vinchurkar Kumar , Pattanshetti Sheetal V.
Published: August 2014

Solid pseudo papillary tumor (SPT) or Frantz′s tumor is a slow-growing low-grade malignant tumor, commonly seen in young patients with a female predominance, which is commonly located in the body and tail of the pancreas. We report a case of SPT arising from the body of the pancreas in a 12-year-old girl who presented with acute abdomen and was treated successfully by local excision of the tumor with preservation of head of pancreas and spleen.
Price Elasticity of Water Demand in a Small College Town: An Inclusion of System Dynamics Approach for Water Demand Forecast
Authors: Dhungel Ramesh , Fiedler Fritz
Published: August 2014

The relationship between water demand and pricing using the price elasticity of water demand in the City of Pullman, Washington, between 2000 and 2006 shows that the current amount of water depletion is not sustainable. Three different economic scenarios were developed by altering variables in regression equations to investigate the influence of individual variables on estimating the final price elasticity of water demand. Single-family households, total residential households, and total population water use of the City of Pullman, Washington were the three different economic scenarios developed for calculating the price elasticity of water demand. The regression results show that the price elasticity of marginal price is inelastic. The exponents for median household income, fixed price, and precipitation had the expected signs in all applied scenarios. An economic model based on the regression equation of price elasticity was developed using a systems dynamic approach. The economic model projected a decline in water demand when the independent variables were assumed to grow linearly over the coming 25 years. When the household size with higher elasticity values was excluded from the regression equation, the developed economic model was able to forecast reasonable water demand. The time series data with exact service connections are recommended to reduce the uncertainty in the computation of the price elasticity of water demand. Further sensitivity analysis is recommended to understand interrelationship of water demand and pricing from the developed economic model using system dynamics approach.