Search

Background: According to Dweck's mindset theory, implicit beliefs (a.k.a. mindset) have an organizing function, bringing together mindset, achievement goals and effort beliefs in a broader meaning system. Two commonly described meaning systems are a growth-mindset meaning system with mastery goals and positive effort beliefs, and a fixed-mindset meaning system with performance goals and negative effort beliefs. Aims: Because of assumed heterogeneity within these two meaning systems, we aim to (1) examine multiple-mindset profiles based on mindset, achievement goals and effort beliefs, by using a data-driven "person-oriented approach," and (2) relate these different profiles to several outcome measures (academic achievement, motivation and school burnout symptoms). Sample: Self-report questionnaire data were collected from 724 students (11.0-14.7 y.o.; 46.7% girl; 53.3% boy; M[subscript age] = 12.8 y.o.). Methods: Latent profile analysis was conducted using mindset, achievement goals and effort beliefs. Results: Four profiles were revealed: one fixed-mindset profile and three growth-mindset profiles, which differed in their performance goal levels (low, moderate and high). Growth-mindset students with low- or moderate-performance goals had more advantageous outcomes, for example, higher math grades and lower school burnout symptoms, compared to growth-mindset students with high-performance goals. Fixed-mindset students had the least advantageous outcomes, for example, lower grades, less intrinsic motivation and more school burnout symptoms. Conclusions: Our study emphasizes the importance of taking a holistic approach when examining mindset meaning systems, revealing the importance of the level of performance goals and including multiple academic outcomes.

Growth mindset, the belief that personal attributes such as intelligence are malleable, has previously been related to more effort investment. Here, we investigated how undergraduates' mindset (N = 114) relates to the choice to invest effort during an arithmetic task, indexed by whether they make low vs. high effort-related choices. Social cognitive theory suggests that past performance experiences (mastery vs. failure) and physiological state are important sources for competence self-evaluations. Therefore, in addition to mindset, we also investigated how effort-related choices are influenced more dynamically, by failures and physiological responses during the task. Growth mindset and physiological effort mobilization did not predict effort-related choices but making mistakes did predict lower effort choices in the subsequent round. This study further supports the importance of mastery experiences for effort investment and provides a novel approach for integrating different levels of influence on effort-related choices during an educationally-relevant task.

AIM: To analyze and calculate the relative cost of various childhood glaucoma surgical interventions per mm Hg intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction ($/mm Hg). METHODS: Representative index studies were reviewed to quantitate the reduction of mean IOP and glaucoma medications for each surgical intervention in childhood glaucoma. A US perspective was adopted, using Medicare allowable costs to calculate cost/mm Hg IOP reduction ($/mm Hg) at 1y postoperatively. RESULTS: At 1y postoperatively, the cost/mm Hg IOP reduction was $226/mm Hg for microcatheter-assisted circumferential trabeculotomy, $284/mm Hg for cyclophotocoagulation, $288/mm Hg for conventional ab-externo trabeculotomy, $338/mm Hg for Ahmed glaucoma valve, $350/mm Hg for Baerveldt glaucoma implant, $351/mm Hg for goniotomy, and $400/mm Hg for trabeculectomy. CONCLUSION: Microcatheter-assisted circumferential trabeculotomy is the most cost-efficient surgical method to lower IOP in childhood glaucoma, while trabeculectomy is the least cost-efficient surgical method.

Landon J Rohowetz,1 Sayena Jabbehdari,2 Nicolas A Yannuzzi,1 Jayanth Sridhar,1 William E Smiddy,1 Audina M Berrocal,1 Thomas A Albini,1 Justin H Townsend,1 Jorge A Fortun,1 Harry W Flynn Jr1 1Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miami, FL, USA; 2Jones Eye Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USACorrespondence: Harry W Flynn Jr, Tel +1 305 326 6118, Fax +1 351 207 3928, Email hflynn@med.miami.eduPurpose: To evaluate the outcomes and complications in patients with retained lens fragments (RLF) after cataract surgery, comparing those who received pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) on the same day, within 1 week, or later than 1 week after cataract surgery.Patients and Methods: Retrospective case series of all patients who underwent PPV for RLF at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute between January 1, 2012 and September 30, 2020. Individuals with less than 3 months of follow-up, chronic uveitis, congenital cataract, previtrectomy retinal detachment (RD), and severe trauma were excluded. All analyses for categorical and binary variables used chi-squared tests. Analyses for continuous variables were performed using multivariate analyses of covariance, adjusting for differences in baseline visual acuity before cataract surgery.Results: The study included 246 eyes of 246 patients. The timing distribution included the following: 140 (57%) eyes underwent same-day PPV, 33 (13%) eyes underwent same-week PPV, and 73 (30%) eyes underwent PPV after 1 week (up to 90 days). When all eyes were included in analysis, there were no statistically significant differences in mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) between groups at last follow-up examination (P = 0.07). When only eyes without known pre-existing ocular disease (N = 157) were included in analysis, there were no differences in mean BCVA between groups at all postoperative timepoints (P > 0.05). The rate of RD did not differ between groups when eyes with and without pre-existing ocular disease were analyzed (P > 0.05).Conclusion: In the current study, there were no statistically significant differences in postoperative BCVA or rates of RD at last follow-up examination in eyes undergoing PPV for RLF on the same day, within 1 week, or later than 1 week after cataract surgery.Keywords: retained lens fragments, pars plana vitrectomy, cataract surgery, retinal detachment

Patrick C Staropoli,1 Harsh V Moolani,1 Abdelrahman M Elhusseiny,2 Harry W Flynn Jr,1 William E Smiddy1 1Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; 2Department of Ophthalmology, Jones Eye Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USACorrespondence: William E Smiddy, Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 900 NW 17th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA, Tel +1 305-302-2704, Fax +1 305-326-6114, Email wsmiddy@med.miami.eduPurpose: Identify the long-term rate of fellow eye full-thickness macular hole (FTMH) development.Patients and Methods: In this single site, single provider retrospective consecutive case series, idiopathic FTMH patients who underwent surgery from 2003 to 2014 who also had at least 5 years of follow-up information within our electronic medical record (EMR) which was started in 2014 were identified. Cases with secondary causes (ie, trauma), high myopia, bilateral FTMH on presentation, previous retinal surgery, retinal breaks, or intraocular inflammation were excluded. Demographics, medical and ocular history, refractive error, phakic status, best corrected visual acuity, follow-up duration, surgical technique, single operation anatomic success, and reoperations were recorded.Results: The rate of fellow eye FTMH was 2.6% (2/77) at 1 year, 5.2% (4/77) at 3 years, 9.1% (6/66) at 6 years, and 9.1% (7/77) as of final follow up. There were 2 cases by year 1, 2 additional cases by year 3, 2 additional cases by year 6, and 1 additional case reported thereafter. The average follow up was 11.1 ± 4.5 years. There was no significant difference in visual outcomes between primary eyes and fellow eyes. There was no significant difference in gender, age, ocular comorbidities, refractive error, phakic status, and visual acuity between the unilateral and bilateral groups.Conclusion: The rate of FTMH in the fellow eye was low but significant, increased during long-term follow up, and may stabilize after 6 years.Keywords: macular hole, fellow eye, surgical outcomes, counseling

Experiencing school burnout symptoms can have negative consequences for learning. A growth mindset, the belief that human qualities such as intelligence are malleable, has previously been correlated with fewer school burnout symptoms in late adolescents. This might be because adolescents with a stronger growth mindset show more adaptive self-regulation strategies and thereby increasing resilience against academic setbacks. Here we confirmed in a sample of 426 Dutch young adolescents (11–14 years old; 48% female) that this relationship between growth mindset and school burnout symptoms holds after controlling for other potential predictors of school burnout symptoms such as academic achievement, school track, gender, and socio-economic status. Our second aim was to increase our understanding of the mechanism underlying the relation between mindset and school burnout, by measuring physiological resilience (vagal activity, a measure of parasympathetic activity, also known as heart rate variability or HRV) in a subsample (n = 50). We did not find any relation between vagal activity and growth mindset or school burnout symptoms, nor could we establish a mediating effect of vagal activity in their relation. In conclusion, we found evidence for a potential protective effect of a growth mindset on school burnout symptoms in young adolescents, but not for physiological resilience (vagal activity) as an underlying mechanism. The protective effect of growth mindset as confirmed in our younger sample can be leveraged in interventions to prevent increasing school burnout symptoms.

Jason Fan, Julia L Hudson, Parastou Pakravan, Thomas A Lazzarini, Benjamin R Lin, Kenneth C Fan, Nicolas A Yannuzzi, Jayanth Sridhar, Justin H Townsend, Audina M Berrocal, William E Smiddy, Elizabeth A Vanner, Harry W Flynn Jr Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USACorrespondence: Harry W Flynn Jr, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, 900 NW 17th St, Miami, FL, 33136, USA, Email HFlynn@med.miami.eduObjective: The purpose of the current study is to report outcomes of suprachoroidal hemorrhage (SCH) after anterior segment surgery at a single institution, and to identify clinical features associated with visual prognosis.Methods and Analysis: Retrospective consecutive case series of patients with SCH occurring after anterior segment surgery.Results: The study includes 112 eyes of 112 patients between 2014 and 2020. There were 76 cases of non-appositional SCH versus 36 cases of appositional SCH. The mean presenting visual acuity for patients with non-appositional versus appositional SCH was 2.03 logMAR (SD 0.78) versus 2.39 logMAR (SD 0.43), respectively. Visual acuity outcomes generally remained poor at last follow-up: 64 (58%) patients had a visual acuity (VA) of ≤ 20/200, including 19 (17%) with light perception (LP), and 11 (10%) with no light perception (NLP). Regarding management of non-appositional versus appositional SCH, observation was selected in 46 (61%) vs 12 (33%), delayed drainage in 14 (18%) vs 15 (42%), delayed pars plana vitrectomy in 16 (21%) vs 13 (36%), and VA at last follow-up was 1.2 versus 1.86 logMAR (p=0.002). In patients that were observed, both appositional SCH (p=0.01) and duration of apposition (p=0.04) were correlated with worse outcome.Conclusion: Appositional SCH was associated with poorer visual outcomes compared to non-appositional SCH. Observation remains a reasonable management strategy for non-appositional SCH.Keywords: suprachoroidal hemorrhage, non-appositional, appositional, anterior segment surgery

In hydraulic fracturing, water is injected at high pressure to crack shale formations. More sustainable techniques use aqueous foams as injection fluids to reduce the water use and wastewater treatment of conventional hydrofractures. However, the physical mechanism of foam fracturing remains poorly understood, and this lack of understanding extends to other applications of compressible foams such as fire-fighting, energy storage, and enhanced oil recovery. Here we show that the injection of foam is much different from the injection of incompressible fluids and results in striking dynamics of fracture propagation that are tied to the compressibility of the foam. An understanding of bubble-scale dynamics is used to develop a model for macroscopic, compressible flow of the foam, from which a scaling law for the fracture length as a function of time is identified and exhibits excellent agreement with our experimental results.

Noy Ashkenazy, Lediana Goduni, William E Smiddy Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USACorrespondence: William E Smiddy Tel +1 305-326-6172Email wsmiddy@med.miami.eduPurpose: To determine secondary effects of the mandated COVID-19 pandemic closure period for elective treatment on non-elective, injection-based retina care and outcomes.Patients and Methods: In this cross-sectional, retrospective analysis of a single-provider outpatient clinic across multiple satellites, consecutive patients returning for intravitreal injections (IVIs) of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor or corticosteroids were identified as “delayed” or “undelayed” during a six-week study interval during the COVID-19 pandemic that closely following a mandated period of prohibited elective encounters. A “delayed” encounter was defined as having a follow-up interval exceeding 33% of the recommended cycle. Patients seen for IVIs during the corresponding six-week interval a year previously were identified for study as pre-COVID-19 controls. Main outcome measures included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) assessment based on findings of intraretinal or subretinal fluid consistent with new or recurrent neovascular events.Results: The study included 183 eyes of 144 patients who underwent IVI-based care from June 18, 2020, through August 7, 2020, compared to 193 eyes of 154 patients injected during the corresponding interval 1 year before. There were 62 eyes of 46 patients seen in the study period later than scheduled (among 144 patients of 183 eyes in total), which represented a larger proportion of delayed patients compared to the previous year (31.9% vs. 14.9%, p< 0.0005). Considering the patterns from the control group, the attributed delay due to COVID-19 was 15.0% of patients. The delayed return eyes had a greater decline in BCVA (3 letters), higher rates of worsened OCT results (48%), and prompted reduction in previously prescribed injection intervals (p< 0.02).Conclusion: The unintended consequence of delayed care of patients on established care regimens should be anticipated, and mitigate strategies considered if similar restrictions are mandated in the future.Keywords: COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, pandemic, retinal vascular diseases, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor, treatment outcomes

AIM: To evaluate a high-resolution functional imaging device that yields quantitative data regarding macular blood flow and capillary network features in eyes with diabetic retinopathy (DR). METHODS: Prospective, cross-sectional comparative case-series in which blood flow velocities (BFVs) and non-invasive capillary perfusion maps (nCPMs) in macular vessels were measured in patients with DR and in healthy controls using the Retinal Functional Imager (RFI) device. RESULTS: A total of 27 eyes of 21 subjects were studied [9 eyes nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), 9 eyes proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and 9 controls]. All diabetic patients were type 2. All patients with NPDR and 5 eyes with PDR also had diabetic macular edema (DME). The NPDR group included eyes with severe (n=3) and moderate NPDR (n=6), and were symptomatic. A significant decrease in venular BFVs was observed in the macular region of PDR eyes when compared to controls (2.61±0.6 mm/s and 2.92±0.72 mm/s in PDR and controls, respectively, P=0.019) as well as PDR eyes with DME compared to NPDR eyes (2.36±0.51 mm/s and 2.94±1.09 mm/s in PDR with DME and NPDR, respectively, P=0.01). CONCLUSION: The RFI, a non-invasive imaging tool, provides high-resolution functional imaging of the retinal microvasculature and quantitative measurement of BFVs in visually impaired DR patients. The isolated diminish venular BFVs in PDR eyes compared to healthy eyes and PDR eyes with DME in comparison to NPDR eyes may indicate the possibility of more retinal vein compromise than suspected in advanced DR.

Nadyr A Damasceno,1,2 Eduardo F Damasceno,1,3 Nicolas A Yannuzzi,1 Ashley M Crane,1 Nidhi Relhan,1 William E Smiddy,1 Harry W Flynn Jr1 1Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; 2Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Naval Marcilio Dias, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; 3Department of Ophthalmology, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niteroi, RJ, BrazilCorrespondence: Harry W Flynn JrBascom Palmer Eye Institute, 900 N.W. 17th Street, Miami, FL 33136, USATel +1 305-243-2020Email HFlynn@med.miami.eduPurpose: To report both the unoperated clinical course and the surgical outcomes of eyes with a central foveal bouquet (CB) secondary to idiopathic epiretinal membranes (iERMs).Design: Retrospective, consecutive, and observational case series.Methods: All patients examined between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2019, for evaluation of epiretinal membrane with a CB lesion identified on spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) were included. Exclusion criteria included vitreoretinal comorbidities associated with secondary ERMs and an absence of CB lesions on SD-OCT. Patients were divided into two groups: those who were followed with observation (Group I) and those who received surgery (Group II). Each group had 3 different types of mechanical abnormalities of the CB previously described as cotton ball sign, subfoveal detachment, or acquired vitelliform lesion, without a subanalysis discrimination.Main Outcome Measures: Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at baseline and last follow-up, subjective metamorphopsia, central retinal thickness (CMT), mechanical stress lesions of the CB, and resolution or evolution of the CB lesions during the follow-up interval.Results: Two hundred seventy-six eyes with iERM were reviewed, and 46 eyes met the inclusion criteria. Among these, 21 of 46 (46%) were observed, and 25 of 46 (54%) underwent surgery. Metamorphopsia was identified in 61.9% of patients in Group I and 81.2% of patients in Group II, at baseline. The mean BCVA was 0.19 ± 0.17 (20/30) in Group I and 0.31 ± 0.33 (20/40) in Group II at presentation. At the final exam, patients in Group I achieved a mean BCVA of 0.24 ± 0.18 (20/30), while patients in Group II obtained a mean BCVA of 0.15 ± 0.21 (20/30). Spontaneous resolution of the CB sign occurred in 5 of 21 eyes (23.8%) that were observed, whereas, after surgery, the CB sign resolved in 16 of 25 eyes (61.5%). Mean CMT was 422 ± 84.2μm in Group I and 531 ± 143.9μm in Group II, at baseline, while at the latest follow-up, the mean CMT was 400 ± 40.8μm in the cases followed with observation and 454 ± 148.7μm in the surgical cases.Conclusion: The clinical course and surgical outcomes of CB findings in iERM are favorable in terms of visual acuity. However, those receiving surgery had an increase in visual acuity and resolution of the CB abnormality.Keywords: foveal tractional lesions; idiopathic epiretinal membrane lesions; central foveal bouquet; clinical outcomes; surgical outcomes,

Hasenin Al-khersan, Michael J Venincasa, Amy Kloosterboer, Jayanth Sridhar, William E Smiddy, Justin H Townsend, Harry W Flynn Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USACorrespondence: Harry W FlynnBascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USATel +1 305-326-600Email HFlynn@med.miami.eduObjective: To report visual acuity in patients undergoing pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) reoperations for complications of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).Design: Retrospective case series.Subjects: Diabetic patients undergoing reoperation with PPV between 2015 and 2018 at a university referral center.Methods: Patient charts were reviewed for indication for initial and repeat PPV, baseline clinical characteristics including gender, age, and lens status, and pre- and post-operative best-corrected visual acuity.Main Outcome Measures: Best-corrected visual acuity at last follow-up.Results: Of 538 eyes (409 patients) undergoing a PPV for diabetic retinopathy, 153 (28.4%) eyes had reoperation. Among the 130 eyes (119 patients) that met the inclusion criteria, 55 eyes (50 patients) underwent reoperation for complications of PDR, defined as non-clearing vitreous hemorrhage (NCVH) and/or tractional retinal detachment (TRD). Within this subgroup of 55 eyes, 19 (34.5%) eyes had an indication for the first surgery of NCVH. Fourteen (73.7%) of these NCVH eyes achieved a visual acuity of 20/80 or better. When the indication for the first surgery was TRD (33 eyes, 60%), 8 (24.2%) eyes achieved this same outcome (p=0.0011).Conclusion: Approximately one of every four eyes treated with PPV for PDR will undergo repeat PPV during follow-up. VA outcomes after the repeat PPV were variable, with NCVH cases achieving better outcomes compared to TRD.Keywords: vitreoretinal surgery, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, retina

AIM: To report outcomes of patients after intraocular lens (IOL) repositioning or exchange for the version of the uveitis-glaucoma-hyphema (UGH) syndrome that does not include closed loop anterior chamber IOL (nUGH). METHODS: Chart review of patients with nUGH who underwent IOL repositioning or exchange by one surgeon were reviewed. The main outcome measures were best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) as a decimal fraction preoperatively and postoperatively after IOL repositioning or exchange. Clinical findings evaluated included the presence of uveitis, hyphema, elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), and other complications such as pigment dispersion or vitreous hemorrhage. The number of anti-inflammatory and glaucoma medications were assessed before and after IOL repositioning or exchange. RESULTS: The study included 14 pseudophakic eyes. The median time at the onset of contemporary UGH after cataract extraction and IOL implantation (CE/IOL) was 7.5y. IOL repositioning or exchange was performed at a mean duration of 8.1±4.7mo (median: 4mo) after onset of UGH. The mean BCVA was improved from 0.45±0.26 preoperatively after onset of UGH syndrome to 0.76±0.22 (P=0.016) after IOL repositioning or exchange. Among the 14 eyes, uveitis, elevated IOP, and hyphema were present preoperatively in 13, 13, and 6 eyes, respectively. Uveitis and hyphema resolved in all cases after IOL surgery. The mean IOP was reduced from 26.4±4.5 mm Hg preoperatively to 14.7±4.9 postoperatively (P=0.01). The mean number of glaucoma medications used was reduced from 1.7±1.1 medications preoperatively to 0.8±1.08 (P=0.04) postoperatively. CONCLUSION: IOL repositioning or exchange is an effective treatment in many cases for medically resistant contemporary UGH syndrome.

Abdelrahman M Elhusseiny,1,2 Harry W Flynn Jr,1 William E Smiddy1 1Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; 2Department of Ophthalmology, Kasr Al-Ainy School of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, EgyptCorrespondence: William E SmiddyDepartment of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 900 NW 17 Street, Miami, FL 33136, USAEmail wsmiddy@med.miami.eduPurpose: To report anatomic and logMAR best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) outcomes with long-term follow-up after pars-plana vitrectomy and epiretinal membrane peeling (PPV-MP).Design: A retrospective case-series.Participants: Patients with epiretinal membrane (ERM) who underwent PPV-MP performed by one surgeon.Methods: Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was recorded as a logMAR preoperatively and, when available, at 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10 years after surgery. The integrity of outer retinal layers was evaluated using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT).Main Outcome Measures: Postoperative BCVA at different follow-up visits and its correlation with different OCT parameters.Results: Fifty-five eyes of 49 patients were followed postoperatively with a mean of 8.6± 2.6 years (median: 9 years, range 5– 16 years). The mean BCVA improved from 0.56± 0.29 (20/72) preoperatively to 0.33± 0.25 (20/42) at 1 year, 0.29± 0.27 (20/38) at 2 years, 0.25± 0.28 (20/35) at 3 years, 0.29± 0.32 (20/38) at 5 years, 0.28± 0.31 (20/38) at 8 years, and 0.28± 0.25 (20/38) at 10 years (p< 0.001). The BCVA improved at each of the first 3 years postoperatively and remained stable at 5, 8, and 10 years. Postoperative improvement in the integrity of ELM, and EZ, on SD-OCT correlated with improved BCVA.Conclusion: BCVA continues to improve after PPV-MP during the first 3 years postoperatively and remains stable. Improved anatomic integrity of outer retinal layers correlated with improved BCVA.Keywords: idiopathic epiretinal membrane, outer retinal layer integrity, optical coherence tomography, visual outcomes

Eduardo F Damasceno,1,2 Nadyr A Damasceno,1,3 Ashley M Crane,1 Nicolas A Yannuzzi,1 Nidhi Relhan,1 William E Smiddy,1 Harry W Flynn1 1Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, FL, USA; 2Department of Ophthalmology, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niteroi, RJ, Brazil; 3Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Naval Marcilio Dias, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, BrazilCorrespondence: Harry W FlynnDepartment of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, 900 N.W. 17th Street, Miami, Florida 33136, USATel +1-305-326-6118Fax +1-305-326-6417Email HFlynn@med.miami.eduBackground/aims: To report the clinical course of patients with idiopathic epiretinal membranes (iERMs) and good baseline best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) managed without surgical treatment.Methods: Retrospective, observational case series of patients with iERMs and 20/50 or better BCVA who did not undergo surgery between January 2014 and December 2017 with a 1-year follow-up. Secondary epiretinal membranes were excluded. iERMs were stratified into two groups: Group I (BCVA 20/30 or better) and Group II (BCVA 20/40 to 20/50). The main outcome measures included baseline and final follow-up BCVA, central macular thickness (CMT) on OCT.Results: The study included 174 eyes (145 patients): 139 eyes (79.8%) had typical iERMs and 35 eyes (18%) had LMH. For Group I typical iERMs, the logMAR baseline and final mean BCVA were 0.09 ± 0.1 (Snellen equivalent 20/25) and 0.10 ± 0.1 (20/25+) respectively (p = 0.22). In this group, the baseline and final mean CMT were 335 ± 73μm and 342 ± 78μm, respectively (p = 0.47). For Group II typical iERMs, the logMAR baseline and final mean BCVA were 0.3 ± 0.1 (20/44) and 0.4 ± 0.2 (20/45) respectively (p = 0.31). In this group, the baseline and final mean CMT were 386 ± 95μm and 391 ± 93μm, respectively (p = 0.84).Conclusion: The clinical course of patients with iERM and good baseline BCVA is generally favorable without surgery and includes stable BCVA and OCT measurements after at least one year.Keywords: epiretinal membrane, pars plana vitrectomy, optical coherence tomography

Karen Brown, Nicolas A Yannuzzi, Natalia F Callaway, Nimesh A Patel, Nidhi Relhan, Thomas A Albini, Audina M Berrocal, Janet L Davis, Jorge A Fortun, William E Smiddy, Jayanth Sridhar, Harry W Flynn Jr, Justin H Townsend Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USACorrespondence: Justin H TownsendDepartment of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 900 NW 17th Street, Miami, FL 33136, USATel +1305 326-6000Fax +1305 326-6417Email jtownsend@med.miami.eduPurpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate associations with and surgical outcomes of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) in young adults.Methods: This is a retrospective consecutive case series of patients aged 18–30 years who underwent surgical repair for RRD between January 1, 2014 and December 1, 2016 at a university referral center.Results: The current study includes 38 eyes with RRD. Documented high or moderate myopia was present in 28 (74%) eyes. Connective tissue disease was present in 3 (8%) eyes. Median pre-operative visual acuity (VA) was 20/70. Surgery was performed via scleral buckle (SB) alone in 27/38 (71%) and via combined SB and pars plana vitrectomy (SB/PPV) in 11/38 (29%) eyes. Single surgery anatomical success (SSAS) rate was 20/27 (74%) for SB and 7/11 (64%) for SB/PPV. The retina was reattached at last follow-up in 25/27 (93%) for SB and 11/11 (100%) for SB/PPV. The median postoperative VA was 20/40.Conclusion: In the current study of young adults with RRD, the most common association was high or moderate myopia. Visual and anatomic outcomes at last follow-up were generally favorable.Keywords: myopia, rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, RRD, young adults

AIM: To develop a model to evaluate the cost-utility of choroidal nevi monitoring recommendations with varying clinical risk factors. METHODS: A Markov model was created to evaluate the cost-utility in cost per quality-adjusted life-year ($/QALY) for monitoring patients with choroidal nevus. This probabilistic model was applied both to a hypothetically monitored and unmonitored group of patients beginning at different ages and with varying clinical risk factors of the nevus. Duration of screening was modeled for the remainder of the patients’ life expectancy. Best available clinical data on the prevalence and incidence of choroidal nevi/melanoma, and relative risk of nevus transformation were combined with the initial and downstream costs of screening, downstream costs of melanoma-related mortality, and QALY saved by monitoring, to estimate the best monitoring regimen. Main outcome measures were average $/QALY saved by consensus recommended monitoring scenarios for the duration of a patient’s remaining life expectancy in comparison with no follow-up, and the cost-utility of modified regimens. RESULTS: The $/QALY of the recommended monitoring scenarios varied substantially based on nevus clinical risk factors, patient age, frequency of follow-up, and objective testing utilized. The $/QALY for the recommended monitoring scenario of a flat nevus without risk factors in a 60-year-old patient was $77 180. The $/QALY for monitoring a nevus with 3 clinical risk factors in a 60-year-old patient was $85 393. The $/QALY values for differently-aged patients were larger, and intermediate degrees of risk factors for nevus growth varied, depending largely upon the specifics of the modeled monitoring scenarios. CONCLUSION: The average $/QALY of currently recommended monitoring scenarios fall within economically acceptable standards and could provide insight for formulating appropriate clinical strategies. Cost-utility could be enhanced by targeting higher risk groups and considering less frequent monitoring for the lower risk groups.

Abstract Background Information and communication technologies are used increasingly to facilitate social networks and support women during the perinatal period. This paper presents data on how technology use affects the association between women’s social support and, (i) mental wellbeing and, (ii) self-efficacy in the antenatal period. Methods Data were collected as part of an ongoing study - the BaBBLeS study - exploring the effect of a pregnancy and maternity software application (app) on maternal wellbeing and self-efficacy. Between September 2016 and February 2017, we aimed to recruit first-time pregnant women at 12–16 gestation weeks in five maternity sites across England and asked them to complete questionnaires. Outcomes included maternal mental wellbeing (Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale), and antenatal self-efficacy (antenatal version of the Tool to Measure Parenting Self-Efficacy). Other variables assessed were perceived social support (Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support), general technology use (adapted from Media and Technology Usage and Attitudes Scale). Potential confounders were age, ethnicity, education, socioeconomic deprivation, employment, relationship status and recruitment site. Linear regression models were developed to analyse the relationship between social support and the outcomes. Results Participants (n = 492, median age = 28 years) were predominantly white British (64.6%). Half of them had a degree or higher degree (49.3%), most were married/living with a partner (83.6%) and employed (86.2%). Median (LQ-UQ) overall scores were 81.0 (74.0–84.0) for social support (range 12–84), 5.1 (4.7–5.4) for technology use (range 1–6), 54.0 (48.0–60.0) for mental well-being (range 14–70), and 319.0 (295.5–340) for self-efficacy (range 0–360). Social support was significantly associated with antenatal mental well-being adjusting for confounders [adj R2 = 0.13, p

Marianeli Rodriguez, James Lin, Justin H Townsend, William E Smiddy, Thomas A Albini, Audina M Berrocal, Jayanth Sridhar, Harry W Flynn Jr Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA Purpose: The purpose of this study was to report clinical features and outcomes in patients with giant retinal tears (GRTs) undergoing vitreoretinal surgery and to compare data from this contemporary series to a previous study from the same institution. Materials and methods: A retrospective, interventional, consecutive case series was conducted for all patients diagnosed with GRTs who underwent vitreoretinal surgery between January 2011 and August 2017. Intraoperative data including the use of scleral buckling, perfluorocarbon liquid, and intraocular tamponade were collected and compared according to GRT size. These parameters, along with postoperative anatomic success and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), were compared with the previous series. Results: The study included 80 eyes of 79 patients with a presentation of retinal detachment with a GRT. Management approach for repair of GRT-associated retinal detachments included scleral buckle (SB) alone (three eyes, 4%), pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) (16 eyes, 20%), and combined SB/PPV (61 eyes, 76%). Perfluorocarbon liquids were used in 60/77 eyes (78%) undergoing PPV, and silicone oil was used in 54/77 eyes (70%). Single surgery success rate was in 69/80 eyes (86%). Eyes managed with SB (including SB alone and SB/PPV) or PPV without SB had similar rates of recurrent retinal detachment (16% vs 6%; P=0.33). Anatomic success was achieved in 76/80 eyes (95%) with one or more surgical procedures, and 54/80 eyes (68%) achieved postoperative BCVA of ≥20/400. Conclusions: In the current series, repairs of retinal detachment due to GRTs were most commonly managed with combined PPV/SB and perfluorocarbon liquid, resulting in reasonably generally favorable anatomic and visual outcomes. Keywords: giant retinal tears, perfluorocarbon liquid, retinal detachment, vitrectomy

Abstract Background Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) is seen as a prerequisite for health research. However, current Patient and public involvement literature has noted a paucity of recording of patient and public involvement within research studies. There have been calls for more recordings and reflections, specifically on impact. Renal medicine has also had similar criticisms and any reflections on patient and public involvement has usually been from the viewpoint of the researcher. Roles of patient and public involvement can vary greatly from sitting on an Advisory Group to analysing data. Different PPI roles have been described within studies; one being a co-researcher. However, the role of the co-researcher is largely undefined and appears to vary from study to study. Methods The aims of this paper are to share one first time co-researcher’s reflections on the impact of PPI within a mixed methods (non-clinical trial) renal research study. A retrospective, reflective approach was taken using data available to the co-researcher as part of the day-to-day research activity. Electronic correspondence and documents such as meeting notes, minutes, interview thematic analysis and comments on documents were re-examined. The co-researcher led on writing this paper. Results This paper offers a broad definition of the role of the co-researcher. The co-researcher reflects on undertaking and leading on the thematic analysis of interview transcripts, something she had not previously done before. The co-researcher identified a number of key themes; the differences in time and responsibility between being a co-researcher and an Advisory Group member; how the role evolved and involvement activities could match the co-researchers strengths (and the need for flexibility); the need for training and support and lastly, the time commitment. It was also noted that it is preferable that a co-researcher needs to be involved from the very beginning of the grant application. Conclusions The reflections, voices and views of those undertaking PPI has been largely under-represented in the literature. The role of co-researcher was seen to be rewarding but demanding, requiring a large time commitment. It is hoped that the learning from sharing this experience will encourage others to undertake this role, and encourage researchers to reflect on the needs of those involved.

The different ways students deal with mistakes is an integral part of mindset theory. While previous error-monitoring studies found supporting neural evidence for mindset-related differences, they may have been confounded by overlapping stimulus processing. We therefore investigated the relationship between mindset and event-related potentials (ERPs) of error-monitoring (response-locked Ne, Pe), with and without overlap correction. In addition, besides behavioral measures of remedial action after errors (post-error slowing and accuracy), we investigated their neural correlates (stimulus-locked N2). Results indicated comparable Ne, but larger Pe amplitudes in fixed-minded students; however, after overlap correction, the Pe results were rendered non-significant. A likely explanation for this overlap was a near-significant effect of mindset on the preceding stimulus P3. Finally, although N2 was larger for trials following errors, mindset was unrelated. The current study shows that the relationship between error-monitoring and mindset is more complex and should be reconsidered. Future studies are advised to explore stimulus processing as well, and if needed, to correct for stimulus overlap. In addition, contextual influences on and individual variation in error-monitoring need more scrutiny, which may contribute to refining mindset theory.

Purpose: To report a case of bilateral non-leaking cystoid macular degeneration induced by docetaxel, possibly potentiated by hydroxychloroquine. Observations: A 63-year-old female patient with a long-term history of rheumatoid arthritis controlled on hydroxychloroquine for 33 years with no evidence of retinopathy developed bilateral loss of vision after having been on docetaxel chemotherapy for breast cancer. Optical coherence tomography showed bilateral cystic maculopathy with no angiographic evidence of leakage on fluorescein angiography. The patient was treated conservatively with no further interventions. Marked improvement of the macular degeneration occurred over the subsequent 9 months, but without visual improvement, although a cataract likely confounded final visual acuity measurement. Conclusions and importance: Docetaxel-induced maculopathy has been previously reported, but with only four case reports in literature, and most often in conjunction with concurrent therapies or conditions also known to cause macular edema. This is the first case report of docetaxel-induced maculopathy in a setting of hydroxychloroquine therapy which may possibly has potentiated the effect of docetaxel to induce maculopathy. Impaired transcellular retinal pigment epithelial transport might be the cause of non-leaking cystic maculopathy. Keywords: Docetaxel, Hydroxychloroquine, Non-leaking cystoid macular degeneration, Retinal pigment epithelium pump

Purpose - Hand hygiene is the single most important intervention to reduce the risk of acquiring infection. All healthcare workers and healthcare students have a responsibility to prevent transmission of infection. The purpose of this study is to investigate students’ attitudes to hand hygiene following university-based education and practice placement. Students attended a lecture, completed an e-learning module, participated in a practical session using a ultra-violet light hand inspection cabinet and engaged in clinical placement. Design/methodology/approach - In all, 64 students participated in a multimodal hand hygiene education programme before clinical placement, with each student completing an in-class questionnaire after placement. Data were analysed using descriptive and comparative statistics. Students rated educational methods that had most influence on them. Their preference was for a practical hand hygiene education session. Students were also influenced by the therapist they were on placement with. They were least influenced by the didactic college presentation. Findings - This study highlights that students may be influenced by different methods of education at different stages in their course and that placement may be an important influencing factor in the earlier years of occupational therapy education. Research limitations/implications - This study highlights the importance of the availability of a multimodal educational approach and clinical placement to promote increased compliance with hand hygiene amongst students. Practical implications - University healthcare course curricula should include multimodal approaches to the education of hand hygiene. While hand hygiene e-learning modules are beneficial, they should be used in conjunction with a multimodal educational strategy that incorporates practical elements. The influence of the therapist on a students’ behaviour should be utilised to improve both student and professionals hand hygiene adherence. Originality/value - Original piece of work that is not widely discussed in Occupational Therapy literature.

Purpose: The purpose of this report was to describe a case of a dislocated Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty graft retained in-the-bag removed with pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). Methods: This was a case report. Results: A 69-year-old pseudophakic man who underwent a repeat Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty due to bullous keratopathy in the setting of multiple previous ocular surgeries presented with a vision of counting fingers. On examination, a Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty graft was appreciated behind the intraocular lens obscuring the visual axis and presumed to be in the anterior vitreous. The patient underwent a 23-gauge vitrectomy, and after a posterior capsulotomy, the dislocated graft was removed with a 23-gauge vitrector without complications. The best-corrected visual acuity was 20/50 6 months after the PPV. Grafts can dislocate posteriorly between the intraocular lens and the posterior capsule. The dislocated graft can be successfully extricated with a 23-gauge vitrector after a careful posterior capsulotomy, with good visual outcomes. Importance: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of an in-the-bag Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty graft posterior dislocation. Furthermore, we showed an innovative surgical technique for the removal of the dislocated graft with a 23-gauge vitrectomy and posterior capsulotomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) are widely used for disease modeling, tissue engineering, and clinical applications. Although the development of new disease-relevant or customized hiPSC lines is of high importance, current automated hiPSC isolation technologies rely largely on the fluorescent labeling of cells, thus limiting the cell line development from many applications. The objective of this research was to develop a platform for high-throughput hiPSC cytometry and splitting that utilized a label-free cell sensing approach. An image analysis pipeline utilizing background subtraction and standard deviation projections was implemented to detect hiPSC colonies from bright-field microscopy data. The pipeline was incorporated into an automated microscopy system coupling quad microraft cell-isolation arrays, computer-based vision, and algorithms for smart decision making and cell sorting. The pipeline exhibited a hiPSC detection specificity of 98% and a sensitivity of 88%, allowing for the successful tracking of growth for hundreds of microcolonies over 7 days. The automated platform split 170 mother colonies from a microarray within 80 min, and the harvested daughter biopsies were expanded into viable hiPSC colonies suitable for downstream assays, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or continued culture. Transmitted light microscopy offers an alternative, label-free modality for isolating hiPSCs, yet its low contrast and specificity for adherent cells remain a challenge for automation. This novel approach to label-free sensing and microcolony subsampling with the preservation of the mother colony holds the potential for hiPSC colony screening based on a wide range of properties including those measurable only by a cell destructive assay.

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to explore how infection prevention and control (IPC) guidelines are used and understood by healthcare professionals, patients and families.DesignEthnographic study with 59 hours of non-participant observation and 57 conversational interviews. Data analysis was underpinned by the Normalization Process Theory (NPT) as a theoretical framework.SettingFour hospitals in Ireland.ParticipantsHealthcare professionals, patient and families.ResultsFive themes emerged through the analysis. Four themes provided evidence of the NPT elements (coherence, cognitive participation, collective action and reflexive monitoring). Our findings revealed the existence of a ‘dissonance between IPC guidelines and the reality of clinical practice’ (theme 1) and ‘Challenges to legitimatize guidelines’ recommendations in practice’ (theme 3). These elements contributed to ‘Symbolic implementation of IPC guidelines’ (theme 2), which was also determined by a ‘Lack of shared reflection upon IPC practices’ (theme 4) and a clinical context of ‘Workforce fragmentation, time pressure and lack of prioritization of IPC’ (theme 5).ConclusionsOur analysis identified themes that provide a comprehensive understanding of elements needed for the successful or unsuccessful implementation of IPC guidelines. Our findings suggest that implementation of IPC guidelines is regularly operationalised through the reproduction of IPC symbols, rather than through adherence to performance of the evidence-based recommendations. Our findings also provide insights into changes to make IPC guidelines that align with clinical work.

Macular hole can undergo spontaneous reopening and reclosure. This is a retrospective review of three patients who had spontaneous reopening and reclosure of previously spontaneously closed macular hole documented by optical coherence tomography. We report the first case of nivolumab-uveitis-associated macular hole formation. The authors hypothesize that cystoid macular edema (CME) might alter the integrity of foveal tissues or conversely the orientation of the macular hole edges and play a role in formation and resolution of a macular hole.

AIM: To compare thickness and reflectivity spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) findings in patients with idiopathic epiretinal membranes (ERMs), before and after ERM peeling surgery, with normal controls. METHODS: A retrospective study analyzed SD-OCTs of eyes with ERMs undergoing ERM peeling surgery by one surgeon from 2008 to 2010 and normal control eyes. SD-OCTs were analyzed using a customized algorithm to measure reflectivity and thickness. The relationship between the SD-OCT findings and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) outcomes was also studied. RESULTS: Thirty-four ERM eyes and 12 normal eyes were identified. Preoperative eyes had high reflectivity and thickness of the group of layers from the internal limiting membrane (ILM) to the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the group of layers from the ILM to the external limiting membrane (ELM). The values of reflectivity of these two groups of layers decreased postoperatively, but were still higher than normal eyes. In contrast, preoperative eyes had lower reflectivity of two 10×15 pixel regions of interest (ROIs) incorporating: 1) ELM + outer nuclear layer (ONL) and 2) photoreceptor layer (PRL) + RPE, compared to controls. The values of reflectivity of these ROIs increased postoperatively, but were still lower than normal controls. A larger improvement in BCVA postoperatively was correlated with a greater degree of abnormal preoperative reflectivity and thickness findings. CONCLUSION: Quantitative differences in reflectivity and thickness between preoperative, postoperative, and normal SD-OCTs allow assessment of changes in the retina secondary to ERM. Our study identified hyperreflective inner retina changes and hyporeflective outer retina changes in patients with ERMs. SD-OCT quantitative measures of reflectivity and/or thickness of specific groups of retinal layers and/or ROIs correlate with improvement in BCVA.

AIM: To evaluate outcomes of combined pars plana vitrectomy and Baerveldt glaucoma implant (PPV-BGI) placement for refractory glaucoma.METHODS: The medical records of 92 eyes (89 patients) that underwent PPV-BGI were retrospectively reviewed, including 43 eyes with neovascular glaucoma (NVG) and 49 eyes with other types of glaucoma (non-NVG).RESULTS: Outcome measures were visual acuity (VA), intraocular pressure (IOP), glaucoma medical therapy, complications, and success [VA>hand motions (HM), IOP≥6 mm Hg and ≤21 mm Hg, no subsequent glaucoma surgery]. Cumulative success rates for the non-NVG group and NVG group were 79% and 40% at 1y, respectively (P=0.038). No difference in the rates of surgical success were found between pars plana and anterior chamber tube placement. Preoperative IOP (mean±SD) was 30.3±11.7 mm Hg in the Non-NVG group and 40.0±10.6 mm Hg in the NVG group, and IOP was reduced to 15±9.5 mm Hg in the non-NVG group and 15±10.5 mm Hg in the NVG at 1y. Number of glaucoma medications (mean±SD) decreased from 2.7±1.3 in the non-NVG group and 2.8±1.3 in the NVG group preoperatively to 0.76±1.18 in the non-NVG group and 0.51±1.00 in the NVG group at 1y. Improvement in VA of ≥2 Snellen lines was observed in 25 (27%) eyes, although only 33% of non-NVG eyes and 2.3% of NVG eyes maintained VA better than 20/200 at 1y. Nonclearing vitreous hemorrhage was the most common postoperative complication occurring in 16 (17%) eyes, and postoperative suprachoroidal hemorrhages developed in 5 (5.4%) eyes.#$NLCONCLUSION: PPV-BGI is a viable surgical option for eyes with refractory glaucoma, but visual outcomes are frequently poor because of ocular comorbidities, especially in eyes with NVG. The location of tube placement does not influence surgical outcome and should be left to the discretion of the surgeon.

In this study, we examined the relationship between the fractal dimension (FD), the morphology of the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) and the macular circulation in healthy controls and patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with and with no diabetic retinopathy (DR). Cross-sectional data of 47 subjects were analyzed from a 5-year longitudinal study using a multimodal optical imaging approach. Healthy eyes from nondiabetic volunteers (n = 12) were selected as controls. Eyes from patients with T2DM were selected and divided into two groups: diabetic subjects with mild DR (MDR group, n = 15) and subjects with DM but without DR (DM group, n = 20). Our results demonstrated a higher FD in the healthy group (mean, 1.42 ± 0.03) than in the DM and MDR groups (1.39 ± 0.02 and 1.35 ± 0.03, respectively). Also, a bigger perimeter, area, and roundness of the FAZ were found in MDR eyes. A significant difference in area and perimeter (p ≤ 0.005) was observed for the MDR group supporting the enlargement of the FAZ due to diabetic complications in the eye. A moderate positive correlation (p = 0.014, R2 = 43.8%) between the FD and blood flow rate (BFR) was only found in the healthy control group. The BFR calculations revealed the lowest values in the MDR group (0.98 ± 0.27 μl/s vs. 1.36 ± 0.86 μl/s and 1.36 ± 0.57 μl/sec in the MDR, DM, and healthy groups, respectively, p = 0.2). Our study suggests that the FD of the foveal vessel arborization could provide useful information to identify early morphological changes in the retina of patients with T2DM. Our results also indicate that the enlargement and asymmetry of the FAZ might be related to a lower BFR because of the DR onset and progression. Interestingly, due to the lack of FAZ symmetry observed in the DM and MDR eyes, it appears that the distribution of flow within the retinal vessels loses complexity as the vascular structures distributing the flow are not well described by fractal branching. Further research could determine how our approach may be used to aid the diagnosis of retinal neurodegeneration and vascular impairment at the early stage of DR.

Background & Aims: Three-dimensional organoid culture has fundamentally changed the in vitro study of intestinal biology enabling novel assays; however, its use is limited because of an inaccessible luminal compartment and challenges to data gathering in a three-dimensional hydrogel matrix. Long-lived, self-renewing 2-dimensional (2-D) tissue cultured from primary colon cells has not been accomplished. Methods: The surface matrix and chemical factors that sustain 2-D mouse colonic and human rectal epithelial cell monolayers with cell repertoires comparable to that in vivo were identified. Results: The monolayers formed organoids or colonoids when placed in standard Matrigel culture. As with the colonoids, the monolayers exhibited compartmentalization of proliferative and differentiated cells, with proliferative cells located near the peripheral edges of growing monolayers and differentiated cells predominated in the central regions. Screening of 77 dietary compounds and metabolites revealed altered proliferation or differentiation of the murine colonic epithelium. When exposed to a subset of the compound library, murine organoids exhibited similar responses to that of the monolayer but with differences that were likely attributable to the inaccessible organoid lumen. The response of the human primary epithelium to a compound subset was distinct from that of both the murine primary epithelium and human tumor cells. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that a self-renewing 2-D murine and human monolayer derived from primary cells can serve as a physiologically relevant assay system for study of stem cell renewal and differentiation and for compound screening. The platform holds transformative potential for personalized and precision medicine and can be applied to emerging areas of disease modeling and microbiome studies. Keywords: Colonic Epithelial Cells, Monolayer, Organoids, Compound Screening

Marco A Gonzalez, Harry W Flynn Jr, William E Smiddy, Thomas A Albini, Audina M Berrocal, Paul Tenzel Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA Purpose: To evaluate management strategies and outcomes for patients with giant retinal tear (GRT)-associated retinal detachment (RD) that had undergone previous pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). Methods: A noncomparative consecutive case series between January 2005 and July 2010. Patients with a preceding history of PPV undergoing retinal reattachment surgery for GRTs were identified. Results: Using International Classification of Diseases 9 codes for GRTs, 227 cases were identified. A total of eight eyes in eight patients were identified as having had preceding PPV for non-RD-related pathology. The mean age was 45.5 (range of 10–79) years. The mean time between PPV and diagnosis of GRT was 2.4 months. The mean follow-up after RD surgery was 24.3 months. Presenting visual acuity was 20/400 or better in four of eight patients (50%). All patients underwent repeat PPV with either gas or oil tamponade. A scleral buckling procedure was performed in seven patients (88%). Perfluorocarbon liquid was used during reattachment surgery in four patients (50%). Although anatomic success was achieved in all patients, visual acuity at last follow-up was 20/400 or better in 6 patients (75%). Conclusion: GRTs are an uncommon complication of PPV. The majority of patients underwent repeat PPV, scleral buckling procedure, perfluorocarbon liquid use and silicone-oil tamponade. Patients presenting with GRT-associated RD after PPV undergoing additional surgery achieved high rates of anatomic success, but visual outcomes were variable. Keywords: giant retinal tear, retinal detachment, vitrectomy, perfluorocarbon liquids

Jonathan S Chang, Harry W Flynn Jr, Darlene Miller, William E Smiddy Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA Background: Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a Gram-negative organism known to cause opportunistic infections. It is a rare source of endophthalmitis, often in the setting of trauma, but has been reported following cataract extraction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate antimicrobial sensitivities, clinical characteristics, and treatment outcomes in patients with endophthalmitis caused by S. maltophilia following cataract extraction. Methods: A retrospective case review of records from January 1, 1990 to June 30, 2010 was performed at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. Results: Eight cases of S. maltophilia endophthalmitis were identified following cataract surgery. Initial visual acuity ranged from 20/200 to light perception. Time to diagnosis with cultures was 2–118 days. Patients received either intravitreal tap and inject (n = 5) or pars plana vitrectomy with intravitreal antibiotic injections (n = 3). All patients had vitreous or anterior chamber cultures positive for S. maltophilia. Seven of seven isolates tested were found to be sensitive to ceftazidime. Seven of eight isolates were sensitive to polymyxin B, six of eight isolates were sensitive to amikacin, and five of the seven isolates tested were sensitive to ciprofloxacin. Two of four tested isolates were sensitive to trimethoprim-sulbactam. All eight isolates were resistant to gentamicin and seven of the seven tested isolates were resistant to imipenem. All patients received intravitreal ceftazidime as part of the initial treatment regimen. Final visual acuity ranged from 20/25 to 4/200. Conclusion: S. maltophilia endophthalmitis is a rare source of endophthalmitis following cataract surgery. A case series of eight independent patients is reported, along with antibiotic resistance profiles and clinical outcomes. Isolates showed sensitivity to ceftazidime, amikacin, and polymyxin, with variable sensitivity to other antibiotics, therefore differing from previous reports. Keywords: endophthalmitis, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, cataract

Jonathan H Tzu, Harry W Flynn Jr, Audina M Berrocal, William E Smiddy, Timothy G Murray, Yale L FisherDepartment of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USAPurpose: The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the characteristic features, including spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), clinical course, and outcome of treatment if given for patients with optic disc pit maculopathy.Methods: We investigated a consecutive series of patients with a diagnosis of optic pit maculopathy treated between 2001 and 2012 at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. Patients were divided into two main groups, ie, patients who were observed without surgery and patients who received surgical intervention. The main outcome measures were presenting and final visual acuity, and changes in SD-OCT imaging were recorded. Other data including age, gender, eye, age of onset, length of follow-up, location of optic pit, and location of fluid by OCT were also recorded.Results: On OCT, 67% (12/18) of the eyes showed schisis-like cavities, 22% (4/18) had only subretinal fluid, and 17% (3/18) had only a schisis-like cavity without subretinal fluid. In the patients managed by observation, visual acuity was ≥20/200 in 6/8 eyes initially and 6/8 eyes at last follow-up. Ten of 18 patients received either focal laser, surgery or both. Six of 10 eyes undergoing surgery had initial visual acuity ≥ 20/200, and 8 of 10 eyes undergoing surgery had a visual acuity of ≥20/200 at last follow-up.Conclusion: In this study, many eyes were observed and remained stable during follow-up. In eyes with reduced vision, surgical intervention produced variable outcomes, and persistent intraretinal/subretinal fluid was a common occurrence.Keywords: optic pit maculopathy, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a high speed, high resolution and non-invasive imaging modality that enables the capturing of the 3D structure of the retina. The fast and automatic analysis of 3D volume OCT data is crucial taking into account the increased amount of patient-specific 3D imaging data. In this work, we have developed an automatic algorithm, OCTRIMA 3D (OCT Retinal IMage Analysis 3D), that could segment OCT volume data in the macular region fast and accurately. The proposed method is implemented using the shortest-path based graph search, which detects the retinal boundaries by searching the shortest-path between two end nodes using Dijkstra's algorithm. Additional techniques, such as inter-frame flattening, inter-frame search region refinement, masking and biasing were introduced to exploit the spatial dependency between adjacent frames for the reduction of the processing time. Our segmentation algorithm was evaluated by comparing with the manual labelings and three state of the art graph-based segmentation methods. The processing time for the whole OCT volume of 496×644×51 voxels (captured by Spectralis SD-OCT) was 26.15 seconds which is at least a 2-8-fold increase in speed compared to other, similar reference algorithms used in the comparisons. The average unsigned error was about 1 pixel (∼ 4 microns), which was also lower compared to the reference algorithms. We believe that OCTRIMA 3D is a leap forward towards achieving reliable, real-time analysis of 3D OCT retinal data.