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To determine the prevalence of astigmatism and its associated factors and examine astigmatism symmetry patterns in an elderly population.Population based cross-sectional study.The present population-based cross-sectional study was conducted on an elderly population above 60 years of age in Tehran, Iran in 2019. The sampling was done using the stratified multistage random cluster sampling method. All study participants underwent a complete optometric examination and slit-lamp biomicroscopy.The prevalence of astigmatism higher than -0.50, -1.00, and -2.00 D was 83% (95% CI: 81 -84), 52 % (95% CI: 50 -54), and 19% (95% CI: 17-20), respectively. These prevalence was 79%(95% CI: 77-81), 46(95% CI: 44-49) and 14(95% CI: 13-16) in subjects without a history of ocular surgery, respectively. Based on cylinder power worse than -1.00 D, 10% (95% CI: 9-12), 20% (95% CI: 18-22), and 21% (95% CI:19-23) of study participants had with the rule, against the rule, and oblique astigmatism, respectively. According to the results of the multiple regression model, male gender, older age, low education level, pure posterior subcapsular cataract, pseudophakia, and myopia were independent factors associated with astigmatism. The prevalence of anisorule astigmatism was 57 % (95% CI: 56-59), the most common anisorule astigmatism was against the rule-oblique type with a prevalence of 36% (95% CI: 34-38).The prevalence of astigmatism was high in the elderly population of Tehran. More than half of the participants in this study had anisorule astigmatism, and against the rule-oblique combination was more prevalent than other types. A posterior subcapsular cataract, a history of cataract surgery, and myopia were the associated factors of astigmatism in this study.

Evaluation of corneal higher-order aberrations can be used clinically to diagnose early cases of keratoconus as well as to classify the severity of keratoconus.To investigate the anterior and posterior corneal higher-order aberrations (HOAs) up to the sixth order and their ability to identify early keratoconus (KCN) as well as differentiate different severities of KCN using cross-validation analysis.This prospective cross-sectional comparative study was performed at a tertiary eye hospital in Tehran, Iran, in 2019. The study sample consisted of 95 eyes of 95 patients with KCN and 53 eyes of 53 normal individuals. The eyes with KCN were classified into three groups based on the Amsler-Krumeich classification system: group 1 (mild KCN), group 2 (moderate KCN), and group 3 (severe KCN). Corneal wavefront analysis was performed using Pentacam HR.Based on the magnitude of AUC, posterior vertical secondary coma (Z5Coma-like aberrations had a good discriminant ability between normal eyes and eyes with mild KCN. Spherical aberrations showed a good ability for differentiating between different stages of KCN. The cut-off values reported in this study can be used for early detection of KCN as well as classification of KCN severity.

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES: Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) remains the gold standard for confirmation of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) despite having many disadvantages. Here, we investigated the diagnostic performance of chest computed tomography (CT) as an alternative to RT-PCR in patients with clinical suspicion of COVID-19 infection. METHODS: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 27,824 patients with clinical suspicion of COVID-19 infection who underwent unenhanced low-dose chest CT from 20 February, 2020 to 21 May, 2020 were evaluated. Patients were recruited from seven specifically designated hospitals for patients with COVID-19 infection affiliated to Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences. In each hospital, images were interpreted by two independent radiologists. CT findings were considered as positive/negative for COVID-19 infection based on RSNA diagnostic criteria. Then, the correlation between the number of daily positive chest CT scans and number of daily PCR-confirmed cases and COVID-19-related deaths in Tehran province during this three-month period was assessed. The trends of admission rate and patients with positive CT scans were also evaluated. RESULTS: A strong positive correlation between the numbers of daily positive CT scans and daily PCR-confirmed COVID-19 cases (r = 0.913, p < 0.001) was observed. Furthermore, in hospitals located in regions with a lower socioeconomic status, the admission rate and number of positive cases within this three-month period was higher as compared to other hospitals. CONCLUSION: Low-dose chest CT is a safe, rapid and reliable alternative to RT-PCR for the diagnosis of COVID-19 in high-prevalence regions. In addition, our study provides further evidence for considering patients' socioeconomic status as an important risk factor for COVID-19.

To investigate the prevalence of Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and its relationship with some determinants in underserved villages of Iran. This population-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 3850 subjects that were randomly selected from the villages of two underserved districts in the north and southwest of Iran using multistage cluster sampling. All participants underwent complete ophthalmic examinations, including visual acuity and refraction measurement. Then, slit-lamp biomicroscopy was done by an ophthalmologist to investigate MGD. Of 3850 subjects that were invited, 3314 participated in the study (participation rate=86.07%), of whom 1834 (55.34%) were women. The mean age of the participants was 37.7±21.4 years (range=2-93 years). The prevalence (95% CI) of MGD in at least one eye was 29.20% (27.35 to 31.06). According to the results of multiple regression analysis, MGD had a positive association with the male sex (OR: 1.75; CI 95%: 1.44 to 2.13), age 61-70 years (OR: 7.15; CI 95%: 3.65 to 14.01), and living in southern villages (OR: 1.82; CI 95%: 1.48 to 2.22) and an inverse association with education level (OR: 0.89; CI 95%: 0.80 to 0.98). The results of this study showed a lower prevalence of MGD even in Iranian rural regions compared to other Asian countries. This study found that older age, male sex, and low education level served as MGD risk factors. It seems that improved health conditions are an important factor in preventing MGD.

Background: To report the management of a patient with two conjunctival cysts as a late Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) sequela. SJS is a life-threatening mucocutaneous disease with various etiologies including drugs, infections, and malignancies. Ocular manifestations of SJS vary from the membrane, symblepharon formation, and epithelial defect in the acute phase totrichiasis, eyelid margin keratinization, and lacrimal duct obstruction in the chronic phase. Case presentation: A 13-year-old boy with a history of drug-induced SJS presented to our clinic complaining of a mass in the nasal side and inferior fornix of the right eye from 1 year ago. The mass-like lesion in the medial side of the right eye was accompanied by ankyloblepharon, symblepharon, and ptosis and limited ocular movement. Orbital imaging showed cystic lesions on the medial side of the right globe and the inferior fornix. Two large cysts were entirely surgically excised. Histopathologic investigation revealed conjunctival tissue with nonkeratinized epithelium and goblet cells. There was no sign of conjunctival cyst recurrence or symblepharon formation on the 6th-month follow-up. The inferior fornix achieved acceptable depth and the ocular movements became normal. Conclusion: Spontaneous conjunctival cysts may occur in SJS and should be managed carefully to improve the ocular surface and movements.

Yellow chamomile (Cota tinctoria) is used for dye production in food industries and some health benefits as an herbal tea. This work was designed to comprehensively evaluate phenolic profiling, antioxidant activity, and therapeutic target enzymes' inhibitory effect of C. tinctoria using chromatographic and spectroscopic methods. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis and total phenol and flavonoid content determination were performed to investigate phenolics composition and concentration. Chlorogenic acid (6518 and 8338 µg/g extract), rutin (752 and 1196 µg/g extract), catechin (764 and 804 µg/g extract), and apigenin (662 and 164 µg/g extract) were determined as the major phenolics of methanolic extract and infusion, respectively. The antioxidant ability of methanolic extract and infusion of the herb was tested using six different mechanisms. Promising antiradical properties were recorded in DPPH and ABTS test (125–275 mg Trolox equivalents/g sample). Also, methanolic extract and infusion exhibited high reducing power (207–350 mg TE/g sample). Moreover, yellow chamomile showed moderate cholinesterase inhibitory (0.2–1.7 mg GALE/g extract), antidiabetic (0.06–0.55 mmol AE/g extract), and tyrosinase inhibitory (11.12 mg KAE/g extract) activities. Results suggested that this plant could be used more in food and pharmaceutical products due to its valuable ingredients and biological activities.

Background: We aimed to determine the age and sex standardized prevalence of corneal opacity and its determinants Methods: The Tehran Geriatric Eye Study (TGES) is a population-based cross-sectional study conducted on 3791 subjects aged above 60 yr in Tehran, Iran (2019) selected using stratified random cluster sampling. After sampling, all subjects underwent complete ophthalmic, optometric, and eye examinations. Results: The 3310 participated in the study, of whom the data of 3284 were analyzed. The age and sex standardized prevalence with 95% confidence interval (CI) of corneal opacity in at least one eye, both eyes, and one eye was 9.58% (95% CI: 8.50 to 10.79), 5.52% (95% CI: 4.71 to 6.45), and 4.07% (95% CI: 3.35 to 4.94), respectively. The mean uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) according to LogMar were worse in subjects with corneal opacity (both P80 yr (OR: 2.05; P: 0.004), and lack of insurance coverage (OR: 1.87; P: 0.004) increased the odds and high school education (OR: 0.68; P: 0.003) reduced the odds of corneal opacity. Among the study variables, sex was the most important determinant of corneal opacity (standardized beta: 0.126). Conclusion: This study found a high prevalence of corneal opacity in the geriatric population. Considering the increasing trend of population aging in Iran, attention should be paid to prioritizing public health policies to estimate resources required for providing comprehensive corneal services and improving geriatric eye health.

To compare the endothelial parameters and thickness profiles of endothelial keratoplasty (EK) lamellae from donated whole eyes post vitreous humour aspiration (VHA) with those prepared from their mate control eyes (without VHA). Between March 2019 and March 2020, a few steps were added when aspirating the vitreous humour and also before dissecting the corneal tissue with microkeratome. EK lamellae were prepared from whole eyes that underwent VHA and their corresponding endothelial and thickness profiles were compared with those prepared from their respective fellow control eyes. Post-operative data in terms of graft attachment and clarity and the rate of reoperation were also reviewed. 115 eyes that underwent VHA and 115 of their respective fellow eyes were enrolled. No significant difference was noted in the endothelial parameters between the two groups. Mean central thickness of the EK lamellae and increase of thickness towards the periphery were not significantly different between the groups. Both groups did not show a significant difference with respect to the anticipated dissection depth, post-operative graft clarity, graft attachment, and the rate of regraft. This study demonstrates that aspirating vitreous humour has no adverse effect on the endothelial and thickness profiles of the EK lamellae that are prepared from these donated whole eyes, once the specific steps outlined by the eye bank are adhered to when aspirating the vitreous humor before performing the microkeratome dissection. The success rate of the grafted lamellae was comparable between the study groups.

Mobile learning is one of the innovative teaching techniques that help medical students gain knowledge and skills. One of the factors that expanded the use of this strategy was the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the educational pedagogy of such technology has been neglected. This article aimed to critically review available mobile learning models in medical education to suggest a comprehensive model in the field of mobile learning.We conducted this critical review based on the five steps of the Carnwell and Daly method. For a comprehensive systematic search from 2000 to April 2021, the following keywords were used: Personal Digital Assistant, m learning, Mobile learning, Ubiquitous learning, U learning, medical students, and medical education. 3176 studies in PubMed, Scopus, ERIC, Magiran, and Web of Science were identified. In total, 8 articles entered the study.Eight models of mobile learning in medical education were identified. The key features of each model were extracted and integrated into the new model for the successful design and implementation of mobile learning. This model includes three main elements of mobile learning: 1-stakeholders, 2-interaction, and 3-technology, which are influenced by external factors including Mobiquette, legitimacy, and awareness.The results of this study are an important contribution to the knowledge collection in mobile learning in medical education. We introduced a comprehensive model of mobile learning including specific characteristics of strategies in the context of medical education.

Clinical relevance The existence of a correlation between the results of paraclinical retinal imaging and clinical tests such as contrast sensitivity can reduce time and cost in diagnosing optic neuritis (ON). Background To demonstrate whether changes of peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness are correlated with the results of visual acuity, contrast sensitivity and colour vision in eyes with acute ON. Methods Thirty patients with acute ON, 23 females and seven males, who had no previous history of ON in neither eye, were examined. Inclusion criteria were: subjects had spherical refraction of less than ±5D, no prior ON or optic disc swelling, no history of amblyopia or colour blindness, and no history or ophthalmoscopic evidence of glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, or maculopathies. Visual acuity, contrast sensitivity and colour vision were tested and optical coherence tomography was performed for all patients after complete ophthalmologic examinations including refraction, biomicroscopy, and funduscopy with a 90D lens by a neuro-ophthalmologist. Results Thirty patients who were 18-45 years old entered the study. There was an inverse correlation between contrast sensitivity and nasal (r = -0.430, p = 0.018), inferior (r = -0.503, p = 0.005) and mean (r = -0.510, p = 0.004) RNFL thickness. The multiple linear regression model, after adjustment for age and sex, showed a significant association between visual acuity and nasal RNFL thickness (coefficient = 0.025, p = 0.032). There was also a significant inverse correlation between contrast sensitivity and nasal (coefficient = -0.003, p = 0.036), inferior (coefficient = -0.006, p = 0.010) and mean (coefficient = -0.007, p = 0.012) RNFL thickness. No significant correlation was found between colour vision and RNFL thickness. Conclusion Contrast sensitivity is more correlated with changes in RNFL thickness in comparison with visual acuity and colour vision. Contrast sensitivity measurement therefore can be used as one of the first assessments in patients with ON.

Background To report Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) in a patient with acute pneumonia secondary to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Case presentation A 45-years-old woman with a diagnosis of acute pneumonia secondary to SARS-CoV-2 infection who had received azithromycin and naproxen. Three days after starting the medication, she appeared ill and developed ocular discomfort, photophobia, dysuria, and macular rashes on the trunk and the extremities. On ophthalmological examination, a total epithelial defect was seen in both eyes. According to the examination, Stevens-Johnson syndrome was diagnosed and the patient was admitted to receive systemic and ocular support and medical care. The patient’s condition improved during the 3 weeks and recovered from both COVID-19 and SJS life-threatening complications but ocular complications, including the destruction of the meibomian glands, irregularity of the eyelid margin, and corneal scarring remained for the patient. Conclusions Although, it is not clear whether the cause of Stevens-Johnson syndrome in COVID-19 patients is the virus itself or whether the use of medication, but patients with COVID-19, especially patients receiving medication, should be screened for symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

AIM: To compare the visual results of non-topography-guided and topography-guided photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) applying sequential and simultaneous corneal cross-linking (CXL) treatment for keratoconus. METHODS: Interventional and comparative prospective study. Sixty-nine eyes (36 patients) suffering from keratoconus (stages 1 Amsler-Krumeich classification) were divided into four groups: sequential topography-guided photorefractive keratectomy with CXL, simultaneous topography-guided photorefractive keratectomy with CXL, simultaneous non-topography guided photorefractive keratectomy with CXL, and sequential non-topography guided photorefractive keratectomy with CXL. The main outcome measures were pre- and postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), best corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), manifest refraction, contrast sensitivity, and keratometry. RESULTS: All analyzed visual, contrast sensitivity, and refractive parameters showed a significant improvement in the four groups (all P

Purpose To investigate the potential additive effect of systemic supplemental oxygen administered during accelerated corneal crosslinking (CXL) for progressive keratoconus (KC). Setting Academic center. Design Randomized clinical trial. Methods Eyes with progressive KC randomized to 3 different CXL protocols were included. The first group (OA-CXL) included 19 eyes that underwent an accelerated CXL protocol (9 mW/cm2 for 10 minutes) while receiving systemic oxygen at a rate of 5 L/min for 10 minutes. The second group consisted of 14 eyes undergoing the same accelerated CXL protocol without supplemental oxygen therapy (A-CXL). The third group (C-CXL) comprised 14 eyes undergoing conventional CXL according to the Dresden protocol. All subjects were followed up for at least 6 months. Visual acuity, keratometry and corneal biomechanical parameters including corneal hysteresis and corneal resistance factor (CRF) were measured preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. Results Reduction in maximum keratometry (Kmax) was significantly greater in the OA-CXL group (P = .01). At baseline, the mean Kmax was 54.31 ± 3.64 diopters (D) in the OA-CXL group, 54.66 ± 4.99 D in the A-CXL group, and 56.03 ± 5.28 D in the C-CXL group (P = .58), which reached 53.58 ± 3.24 D, 54.59 ± 4.65 D, and 55.87 ± 4.73 D at 6 months in the 3 study groups, respectively (P = .115). The mean CRF increased significantly only in the OA-CXL group from a baseline value of 6.32 ± 2.12 mm Hg to 7.38 ± 1.88 mm Hg at 6 months (P = .009). Conclusions This study suggests superior efficacy of an accelerated CXL protocol coupled with systemic oxygen supplementation when compared with the accelerated CXL protocol and the conventional protocol in eyes with progressive KC. In addition to greater reduction in Kmax as the primary outcome, improvement in corneal biomechanics was also observed at 6 months.

To develop and validate a shared governance feasibility instrument in schools of nursing in Iran with respect to the nature of the profession and the sociocultural context of the Iranian community. Background: Nursing schools are liable to the application of shared governance due to the presence of various expert educational groups within the school that necessitates reciprocal cooperation. Since the concept of shared governance is culture-based and given that no full-fledged study has been conducted on shared governance in Iran, the development of a suitable shared governance feasibility instrument is rendered as mandatory. Methods: This sequential exploratory mixed method study consisted of two qualitative and quantitative parts was accomplished 2016-2019. First, the primary items were extracted through extensive review of literature and qualitative interviews and underwent psychometric validation using a methodological approach. Face, content, construct validity, reliability of the instrument was established were done. Results: 150 items were distilled from the first stage of the study, was reduced to 70 after establishing face and content validity, and primary reliability. Exploratory factor analysis resulted in 52 items covering the two factors “shared atmosphere and culture” and “infrastructural prerequisites”. These two factors accounted for 78.6% of the total variance of the questionnaire. In calculating the final reliability coefficient of the instrument, Cronbach’s alpha and Omega were 0.981 and 0.805, respectively. The results showed an ICC of 0.91 indicating high reliability of the developed instrument with standard error of measurement (SEM) of 10.43. Finally, the items underwent weighting via scoring by considering item weights due to differences between the two methods. Conclusion: “Shared governance feasibility instrument” can provide a new insight to organizational performance for all policy-makers and beneficiaries of higher education. This not only leads to the use of intelligence and capabilities of the beneficiaries, but also aids in faster movement toward achieving organizational goals. Implications for Nursing Management: This study and the developed instrument may serve as guide for the feasibility of implementing shared governance to assess management styles and performance in higher education centers.

Background: Shared governance is a decentralized structural model that gives individuals the right to make decisions and a position analogous to managers. The shared governance is different based on context in every organization. This study identified the characteristics of shared governance in Iranian nursing schools. Materials and Methods: In this qualitative research, 11 participants were selected using purposive sampling method. Deep semi-structured interviews were conducted, and the data were analyzed using conventional content analysis. Lincoln and Guba's criteria were used to verify the accuracy and trustworthiness of the data. Results: Through data analysis, the theme of “several souls in one body” was achieved in addition to the seven categories of “climates based on common interests,” “conscious participatory decision-making,” “mutual accountability,” “multiplicity of ideas,” “decentralized structure,” “interrelationship,” and “sublime organization.” Conclusions: According to the findings, the characteristics of shared governance in the social culture of Iran are like several souls in one body, emphasizing all aspects of participation and morality in the organization. Managers and administrators in higher education and nursing faculties need to pay attention to all aspects of shared governance, including spirituality in managing the covered institutions.

Additional file 1. Shared governance feasibility questionnaire.

Objectives: To assess ocular abnormalities in psoriatic patients (new-cases versus patients under treatment) in comparison with healthy controls.Methods: A total of 200 psoriatic patients and 100 h...

Background The method of implementing shared governance varies among organizations. Identifying the predisposing factors can facilitate and precipitate its successful implementation and aid educational institutions in achieving their goals. This study determined the antecedents of shared governance in nursing schools. Methods Eleven participants including faculty members of nursing schools, and managers of three major medical universities of Tehran were selected using purposive sampling method and underwent in-depth semi-structured interviews in this qualitative study. Conventional content analysis was used to analyze the data. Results Data analysis led to the emergence of four categories including the participatory context of higher education institutions, infrastructural obligations, coordination with contemporary needs, and participation-oriented managers resulting in twelve subcategories. Conclusion This study showed that managers can play a key role in the successful implementation of shared governance in the appropriate context of higher education institutions. Hence, the deliberate selection of managers who believe in managerial participation and their training are mandatory in nursing schools. The senior or higher level managers of educational institutions can empower themselves and their staff in participatory skills along with providing suitable resources of work serving as a suitable model of participation.

Purpose To describe a sign that can confirm the correct position of donor lenticules during Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK). Methods In this clinical and laboratory study, DSAEK was performed in 3 eyes with a diagnosis of pseudophakic bullous keratopathy. Additionally, 2 whole globes and 2 precut corneoscleral buttons were procured for the purpose of the laboratory part of the study. After removal of recipient Descemet membrane, the donor graft was inserted into the anterior chamber, unfolded, and attached to the posterior corneal stroma with an air bubble. A similar procedure was performed in the eye-bank eyes with lenticules attached in both correct and upside-down orientations. Results After the anterior chamber was completely filled with air, 2 or more concentric shiny rings were formed at the border of the donor lenticule because of total internal reflection in the graft. In the live and eye-bank eyes with a donor graft attached in the correct orientation, the innermost shiny ring, indicating the stromal side of the graft, was observed under the recipient cornea, whereas the outermost ring, indicating the endothelial side, was formed deeper. When the donor lenticule was intentionally implanted upside down in the eye-bank eyes, the reverse situation occurred, and the largest ring was observed just beneath the recipient cornea. Conclusions The correct anterior-posterior orientation of the donor lenticule during DSAEK could be identified by the shiny rings formed at the border of the graft after the anterior chamber was completely filled with air.

Purpose: To evaluate corneal changes after collagen crosslinking (CXL) therapy for keratoconus (KCN) using the Galilei dual Scheimpflug analyzer. Methods: This prospective, nonrandomized clinical study included 35 eyes of 32 keratoconus patients who had undergone CXL. The eyes were saturated with riboflavin solution and were subjected for 30 minutes to ultraviolet?A (UV?A) light with irradiance of 3 mW/cm2. Effectiveness of the treatment was assessed by measuring uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best?corrected visual acuity (BCVA), manifest cylinder/sphere, keratometry, pachymetry, posterior and anterior elevations by the Galilei dual Scheimpflug analyzer. Prior to treatment and 8 months after therapy, Scheimpflug analysis was performed using the Galilei system. The four sets of data including keratometry values, pachymetry, elevation parameters and surface indices were statistically analyzed and compared. Results: Mean patient age was 22.3 ± 3.8 years and mean postoperative follow?up was 8.1 ± 3.2 months. There was a significant increase in UCVA (0.54 ± 0.35 Log MAR preoperatively to 0.49 ± 0.34 LogMAR postoperatively, P = 0.01) and BCVA (0.21 ± 0.19 Log MAR preoperatively to 0.16 ± 0.17 LogMAR postoperatively, P = 0.01). Mean cycloplegic spherical equivalent refractive error was ?4.13 ± 2.65 Diopter (D) preoperatively and ? 4.67 ± 2.96 D postoperatively (P < 0.001). During the follow?up period, no significant difference was observed in pachymetric and elevation data postoperatively. Conclusion: Corneal stabilization could be achieved by collagen crosslinking therapy for keratoconus in terms of corneal thickness, keratometry values, elevation parameters and surface indices.

To evaluate the short-term outcomes of femtosecond laser-assisted implantation of a 340-degree intracorneal ring (ICR) (Keraring) in patients with keratoconus.Four centers in Iran.Prospective case series.All cases had implantation of the 340-degree ICR after tunnel creation with a femtosecond laser. The uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuities, sphere, cylinder, manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE), mean keratometry (K), steep K, and flat K were evaluated preoperatively and 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively.Eighteen eyes of 17 patients were included. The mean follow-up was 4.33 months (range 1 to 6 months). The mean UDVA improved from 0.95 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) ± 0.33 (SD) to 0.53 ± 0.35 logMAR (P = .001) and the mean CDVA from 0.39 ± 0.22 logMAR to 0.26 ± 0.21 logMAR (P = .09). The mean sphere decreased from -5.08 ± 3.74 diopters (D) to -1.67 ± 2.59 D, the mean cylinder from -5.83 ± 2.02 D to -2.72 ± 1.81 D, and the mean MRSE from -8.03 ± 3.88 D to -3.01 ± 2.82 D (P .001). The mean K decreased from 51.43 ± 3.59 D to 47.42 ± 3.59 D (P .001). All patients with a preoperative mean K greater than 55.0 D had worse CDVA.Implantation of a 340-degree ICR using femtosecond laser improved the visual, refractive, and topographic parameters in keratoconic patients. The findings indicate that patients with severe keratoconus (mean K55.0 D) are not good candidates for this type of ICR.

To compare the outcomes of the conventional and accelerated corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) in patients with bilateral progressive keratoconus (KC). Fifteen consecutive patients with bilateral progressive KC were enrolled. In each patient, the fellow eyes were randomly assigned to the conventional CXL (3 mW/cm2 for 30 min) or accelerated CXL (ACXL) (9 mW/cm2 for 10 min) groups. Manifest refraction; uncorrected and corrected distant visual acuity; maximum and mean keratometry; corneal hysteresis and corneal resistance factor; endothelial cell density and morphology; central corneal thickness; and wavefront aberrations were measured before and 12 months after the CXL. Manifest refraction spherical equivalent and refractive cylinder improved significantly only in conventional group. Uncorrected and corrected distant visual acuity did not change significantly in either group. Also there was no significant change in the maximum and mean keratometry after 12 months. There was significant decrease in central corneal thickness in both groups which was more prominent in conventional group. Endothelial cell density reduced only in the conventional group which was not statistically significant (P = 0.147). CH, CRF, and wavefront aberrations did not change significantly in either group. We did not observe any significant difference in the changes of the variables between the two groups. Accelerated CXL with 9 mW/cm2 irradiation for 10 min had similar refractive, visual, keratometric, and aberrometric results and less adverse effects on the corneal thickness and endothelial cells as compared with the conventional method after 12 months follow-up. However, randomized clinical trials with longer follow-ups and larger sample sizes are needed.

Sulfur mustard (SM; mustard gas) is a classic chemical warfare agent that has been used in several wars and is still a potential threat especially in the Middle-East region. Victims experience acute symptoms in airexposed organs including skin, respiratory tract and the eyes. Survivors of the acute stage might develop chronic or delayed-onset complications in the exposed organs. The exact mechanism(s) of SM-induced tissue damage is still unknown, however DNA alkylation and oxidative damage are the most relevant mechanisms. Eye is the most sensitive organ to the SM vapor and ocular symptoms usually precede other manifestations. Ocular findings including blepharitis, dry eye disease, corneal vascularization, persistent epithelial defects, limbal ischemia, limbal stem cell deficiency, corneal thinning, corneal opacity and corneal innervation abnormalities have been reported several years after SM exposure. In this review, mechanisms of acute and chronic/delayed ocular manifestations of SM and their current management and potential future therapies have been discussed. We have also included recent advances in amniotic membrane transplantation, cultivated stem cell transplantation and anti-angiogenic therapies which might be considered as therapeutic options in SM-induced ocular damage in the future.

PURPOSE To compare the total energy required for producing patent neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser peripheral iridotomy in patients with or without keratoconus (KC). METHODS In this case-control study, 36 eyes from 36 patients with KC and 24 eyes from 24 patients with myopia with or without astigmatism (as control group) who were scheduled for phakic intraocular lens implantation underwent neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser peripheral iridotomy 1 week before surgery. The total laser energy was recorded and compared between the 2 groups. RESULTS Mean total laser energy was significantly lower in patients with KC compared with the control group (114.7 ± 41.0 mJ and 263.9 ± 79.6 mJ, respectively, P < 0.01). Total laser energy was not correlated with patients' age, sex, race, refraction, maximum keratometry, or corneal thickness. CONCLUSIONS Lower tissue resistance may be present in other ocular structures, such as iris, in patients with KC. Our findings supported a generalized abnormality in patients with KC rather than a localized corneal disease, at least in some cases.

Objective To compare the efficacy of the classic treatment of ocular toxoplasmosis (pyrimethamine, sulfadiazine, and prednisolone) with a regimen consisting of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (co-trimoxazole) plus prednisolone. Design Prospective randomized single-blind clinical trial. Participants Fifty-nine patients with active ocular toxoplasmosis were randomly assigned to 2 treatment groups: 29 were treated with pyrimethamine/sulfadiazine, and 30 patients received trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. Intervention Treatment consisted of 6 weeks' treatment with antibiotics plus steroids. Antitoxoplasmosis antibodies (immunoglobulin M [IgM] and IgG) were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Main Outcome Measures Changes in retinochoroidal lesion size after 6 weeks' treatment, visual acuity (VA) before and after intervention, adverse drug reactions during follow-up, and rate of recurrence. Results Active toxoplasmosis retinochoroiditis resolved in all patients over 6 weeks' treatment, with no significant difference in mean reduction of retinochoroidal lesion size between the 2 treatment groups (61% reduction in the classic treatment group and 59% in the trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole group, P = 0.75). Similarly, no significant difference was found in VA after treatment between the 2 groups (mean VAs after treatment were 0.12 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [logMAR] [20/25] in the classic treatment group and 0.09 logMAR [20/25] in the trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole group, P = 0.56). Adverse effects were similar in both groups, with one patient in each suffering from any significant drug side effects. The overall recurrence rate after 24 months' follow-up was 10.16%, with no significant difference between the treatment groups ( P = 0.64). Conclusions Drug efficacies in terms of reduction in retinal lesion size and improvement in VA were similar in a regimen of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and the classic treatment of ocular toxoplasmosis with pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine. Therapy with trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole seems to be an acceptable alternative for the treatment of ocular toxoplasmosis.

To compare the outcomes of 2 techniques (Anwar vs. Melles) of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) in patients with keratoconus.Randomized, double-blind clinical trial.Fifty-seven eyes of 57 patients 20 to 35 years of age were enrolled.Patients with clinical diagnosis of keratoconus who were contact lens intolerant and whose corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) was less than 20/80 were enrolled. Eligible eyes were allocated randomly into 2 groups: the Anwar technique (23 eyes) or the Melles technique (25 eyes).The primary outcome measure was CDVA. Secondary outcomes were spherical equivalent, contrast sensitivity, corneal aberrations, corneal biomechanical properties, endothelial cell count, and central corneal thickness. All outcomes were compared 15 months after surgery.The CDVA was 0.17 ± 0.09 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) units and 0.18 ± 0.11 logMAR units in the Anwar and Melles groups, respectively (P = 0.803). Spherical equivalent was -1.82 ± 2.7 diopters (D) and -2.69 ± 3.94 D in the Anwar and Melles groups, respectively (P = 0.155). Overall, the difference in photopic and mesopic contrast sensitivity function between the 2 groups was statistically significant (P0.05). There was no significant difference between 2 groups in total and higher-order aberrations up to the fifth order (P0.05 for all parameters). Corneal hysteresis was not significantly different between the 2 groups (9.9 ± 0.8 vs. 9.9 ± 0.6; P = 0.606). The corneal resistance factor was 10.02 ± 0.8 and 10.13 ± 0.76 (P = 0.509). There was no significant difference in percentage of endothelial cell loss between the 2 groups (1 ± 2% vs. 1 ± 3% in the Anwar and Melles groups, respectively; P = 0.869). Mean central corneal thickness was 525.56 ± 47.87 μm versus 504.64 ± 54.20 μm in the Anwar and Melles groups, respectively (P = 0.155).The Anwar and Melles techniques of DALK have comparable visual acuity and refractive outcomes, aberrometric profiles, biomechanical properties, corneal thicknesses, and endothelial cell densities. However, patients who underwent the Anwar technique showed better contrast sensitivity.

Purpose To compare the efficacy of intravitreal injection of clindamycin and dexamethasone with classic treatment for ocular toxoplasmosis. Design Prospective, randomized single-masked clinical trial. Participants A total of 68 patients with active ocular toxoplasmosis were assigned randomly to 2 treatment groups: 34 in the intravitreal clindamycin plus dexamethasone (IVCD) group and 34 in the classic treatment (CT) group. Intervention The IVCD group received 1 to 3 injection(s) of 1 mg intravitreal clindamycin and 400 μg dexamethasone, and the CT group received 6 weeks of treatment with pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine plus prednisolone. Antitoxoplasmosis antibodies (immunoglobulin [Ig] M and IgG) were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Main Outcome Measures Changes in retinochoroidal lesion size, measured by a computer program written in the MATLAB environment, 6 weeks after initiation of treatment. Visual acuity (VA) changes, vitreous inflammatory response, adverse drug reactions, and rate of recurrence were secondary outcome measures. Results The mean number of injections in the IVCD group was 1.6. The lesion size reduction was statistically significant after treatment in both IVCD and CT groups ( P P = 0.009, respectively). However, the difference in mean percentage of reduction at 6 weeks was not significant: 57.0±27.8% in the IVCD group versus 58.4±29.3% in the CT group ( P = 0.569). In relation to the baseline, VA increased by 0.44±0.24 and 0.29±0.19 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution units in the IVCD and CT groups, respectively ( P P = 0.002); this indicated that IgM-positive cases responded better to CT and IgM-negative cases responded better to IVCD treatment. Vitreous inflammation reduction was insignificant between the groups. Within 2 years, 4 eyes (2 in each group) had 1 episode of recurrence. Adverse drug reactions occurred in 2 patients in the CT group. No major injection-related complication was encountered in the IVCD group. Conclusions Intravitreal injection of clindamycin and dexamethasone may be an acceptable alternative to the classic treatment in ocular toxoplasmosis. It may offer the patient more convenience, a safer systemic side effect profile, greater availability, and fewer follow-up visits and hematologic evaluations. Financial Disclosure(s) The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.

Purpose: To compare distant and near visual function after cataract surgery with implantation of Crystalens HD or Tek-Clear as accommodating intraocular lenses (IOLs), versus SA60AT as a standard IOL. Methods: The study included 62 eyes of 58 patients divided into three groups using three different IOLs: Crystalens HD (Bausch and Lomb, NY, USA), Tek-Clear (Tekia, CA, USA) and SA60AT (Alcon, TX, USA) were implanted in 23, 14 and 25 eyes, respectively. Corrected distant visual acuity (CDVA), uncorrected and distance corrected near visual acuities (UCNVA and DCNVA), near point of accommodation (NPA), spectacle freedom and patient satisfaction were assessed six months postoperatively and compared between the three groups. Results: After 6 months, all patients showed significant improvement in CDVA with no significant difference among the study groups. However, UCNVA and DCNVA were significantly better in patients implanted with accommodating IOLs. NPA was closest in the Crystalens HD group, followed by Tek-Clear and monofocal SA60AT (P < 0.001). Patients with accommodating IOLs were more likely to become spectacle free and satisfied with their near vision as compared to subjects receiving a monofocal IOL. Conclusions: Accommodating IOLs (Crystalens HD and Tek-Clear) effectively reduce the necessity for spectacles after cataract surgery.

Purpose: To compare ultrasound pachymetry and Orbscan II for measurement of central corneal thickness (CCT) in normal eyes. Methods: The current study was performed at Labbafinejad Medical Center (LMC), Tehran, Iran. Three hundred eyes from 150 healthy individuals referred for keratorefractive surgery were assessed first by Orbscan II and then by ultrasound pachymetry, and CCT values were recorded and compared. Results: Overall, Orbscan II overestimated CCT as compared to ultrasound pachymetry by about 2.4% (mean values 547.6 ± 34.7 versus 534.8 ± 34.7, respectively, P < 0.001). The difference was more significant when CCT was less than 500 microns (mean values 493.2 ± 16.9 versus 479.9 ± 15.6, mean overestimation: 2.6%, P < 0.001). There was good linear correlation between the two methods (Pearson′s correlation r = 0.968, P < 0.0001). Conclusion: Orbscan II has good correlation with ultrasound pachymetry for measurement of CCT in normal eyes; however Orbscan II should not be used to evaluate corneal thickness before keratorefractive surgeries, as it tends to overestimate corneal thickness and may result in undesirable, low residual stromal thickness.