Los tecnólogos en Optometría y Óptica y su desempeño profesional

Introducción: Esta investigación se articula en el modelo de educación superior y el modelo sanitario que se aplica en Cuba, acorde con las necesidades cada vez más crecientes del hombre en relación directa con su entorno socioeconómico, cultural, científico-tecnológico y ecológico. Objetivo: Valorar el estado actual del desempeño profesional de los tecnólogos en Optometría y Óptica de La Habana. Materiales y métodos: La investigación es cuantitativa, no experimental, observacional y prospectiva. Se trabajó con 200 tecnólogos en Optometría y Óptica, que constituyen el 100 % de la población. Para el desarrollo se identificaron cuatro dimensiones, entre las que se encuentran la aplicación de los procederes tecnológicos ópticos y optométricos; producción intelectual: se establece la actuación manifestada en la expresión de conocimientos y habilidades actualizados; comportamiento ético: se entiende por la actuación manifestada en la expresión de habilidades comunicativas y valores; y crecimiento profesional, referido a la actuación manifestada en la expresión de habilidades investigativas. Resultados: El 100 % aborda las funciones en la asistencia, y solo el 10 % declara tener tiempo para investigar; 25 % de ellos han participado en algún curso, el 12 % en diplomado, y solo cuatro poseen maestría; 25 % establece tener dominio en la manipulación de los equipos; entre el 10 y el 20 % no presentan problemas. Conclusiones: Se identificaron insuficiencias en las dimensiones que se establecieron relacionadas con la superación y la aplicación de los procederes tecnológicos.

Introduction: This research is articulated in the higher education model and the health model that is applied in Cuba, in accordance with the increasingly growing needs of man in direct relation with his socioeconomic, cultural, scientific, technological and ecological environment. Objective: To assess the current status of the professional performance of technologists in Optometry and Optics of Havana. Materials and methods: The research is quantitative, not experimental, observational and prospective. The authors worked with 200 technologists in Optometry and Optics, who were 100% of the population. Four dimensions were identified for the development, among which are the application of optical technological procedures and optometric; intellectual production: the performance manifested in the expression of updated knowledge and skills is established; ethical behaviour means the action expressed in the expression of communicative skills and values; and professional growth, referring to the performance manifested in the expression of investigative skills. Results: 100% address the functions in assistance and only 10% declare they have time to research[ 25% of them have participated in some course, 12% in a diploma and only four have a master's degree; 25% state that they have mastery in handling the equipment, between 10% and 20% do not present problems. Conclusions: Insufficiencies were identified in the dimensions that were established related to improvement and the application of technological procedures.

Sistema de competencias laborales para tecnólogos de la salud licenciados en Optometría y Óptica / Job competency system for health technologists licensed in Optometry and Optics

Fundamento: la calidad de un servicio de salud parte del nivel de la competencia y desempeño de sus trabajadores en el cumplimiento de sus funciones laborales y sociales. Objetivo: elaborar un sistema de competencias laborales para tecnólogos de la salud licenciados en Optometría y Óptica. Métodos: se realizó una investigación de desarrollo tecnológico en el campo de la educación médica, durante enero 2021- enero 2022 en instituciones del nivel secundario del municipio Holguín. Se utilizaron métodos teóricos, empíricos y estadísticos que permitieron la triangulación metodológica de los resultados. Se tuvo en cuenta el criterio de especialistas para la valoración del sistema de competencias elaborado. Resultados: se identificaron insuficiencias para ejecutar procederes óptico-optométricos, limitada participación en actividades científico investigativas, baja categorización docente e investigativa, debilidades en la función profesor-tutor y escasa actividad de superación permanente. Se elaboró un sistema de competencias laborales para tecnólogos de la salud licenciados en Optometría y Óptica diseñadas en correspondencia con el ejercicio de sus funciones. Conclusiones: el diagnóstico realizado demostró la necesidad de un sistema de competencias laborales para contribuir al perfeccionamiento del desempeño laboral de estos profesionales, el cual fue valorado como factible, pertinente y útil de ser aplicado.

Background: the quality of a health service is based on the level of competence and performance of its workers in fulfilling their job and social functions. Objective: to develop a system of job skills for health technologists Bachelors in Optometry and Optics. Methods: a technological development investigation was carried out in the field of medical education, from January 2021 to January 2022 in secondary level institutions of the Holguín municipality. Theoretical, empirical and statistical methods were used that allowed the methodological contrast of the results. The criteria of specialists was taken into account for the assessment of the developed competency system. Results: insufficiencies were identified to carry out optical-optometric procedures, limited participation in scientific research activities, low teaching and research ranking, weaknesses in the teacher-tutor function and little permanent improvement activity. A system of job competencies was developed for health technologists with degrees in Optometry and Optics designed in accordance with the exercise of their duties. Conclusions: the diagnosis carried out demonstrated the need for a system of work competencies to contribute to the improvement of the work performance of these professionals, which was valued as feasible, relevant and useful to be applied.

Origen y evolución de la optometría y la óptica en Cuba y en el mundo / Origin and Evolution of Optometry and Optics in Cuba and in the World

Al revisar la historia de la optometría y la óptica se encuentra que ha tenido procesos de cambio y evolución, debido a la preocupación por la salud visual que ha venido deteriorándose al transcurrir de los años. Para mostrar dichos cambios se realizó una revisión teórica-histórica del origen y la evolución de la optometría y la óptica. Se tuvo en cuenta los datos que han sido de avance científico, tecnológico y humanístico, no solo en la antigüedad sino también en la actualidad, los cuales han servido para mejorar el desarrollo de nuestra actividad profesional y consecuentemente al mejoramiento del bienestar social. Fueron innumerables los hombres que enriquecieron nuestros conocimientos con sus aportes, por lo cual se ha necesitado de muchos siglos de lenta y progresiva evolución para llegar a ser lo que es hoy en día, una ciencia con todas las bases de la óptica, la anatomía y la fisiología de la visión la cual se rige por leyes que nos permiten un conocimiento más exacto de ella. El objetivo es valorar el proceso de origen y evolución de la optometría y la óptica en Cuba y el mundo(AU)

When reviewing the history of optometry and optics, it is found that it has undergone processes of change and evolution, due to the concern for visual health that has been deteriorating over the years. In order to show these changes, a theoretical-historical review of the origin and evolution of optometry and optics was carried out. We took into account the data that have been of scientific, technological and humanistic progress, not only in ancient times but also at present, which have served to improve the development of our professional activity and consequently to the improvement of social welfare. There were countless men who enriched our knowledge with their contributions, so it has taken many centuries of slow and progressive evolution to become what it is today, a science with all the bases of optics, anatomy and physiology of vision which is governed by laws that allow us a more accurate knowledge of it. The objective is to evaluate the process of origin and evolution of optometry and optics in Cuba and the world(AU)

Superación profesional del tecnólogo en optometría y óptica en el Tomógrafo de Coherencia Óptica Spectralis / The Professional Upgrading of the Technologist in Optometry and Optics with the Spectralis Optical Coherence Tomography

En la actualidad, se vive en una sociedad en la que el conocimiento es el principal motor de desarrollo y crecimiento económico. Para que una persona tenga capacidad de producir conocimientos y de aprendizaje permanente, se requiere tener habilidades en el uso de tecnología avanzada, las cuales se logran con la superación profesional para poder aplicarlos en beneficio de toda la sociedad. La superación profesional posibilita a los profesionales estar actualizados y actualizables en las tecnologías avanzadas que facilitan mantenerse competentes y competitivos en cualquiera de los escenarios. En ese sentido, el desarrollo de las habilidades en el uso de tecnología avanzada significa aprender un lenguaje único, incorporar nuevas reglas y utilizar nuevas experiencias para aprender a interaccionar con eficacia en ese mundo. La tecnología de la salud requiere de profesionales con un perfil amplio e integrador, los cuales, mediante la superación profesional, se apropien de conocimientos y desarrollen habilidades en el uso de tecnología avanzada(AU)

Nowadays, life is experienced in a society in which knowledge is the main engine of development and economic growth. In order for a person to have the capacity to produce knowledge and learn permanently, it is necessary to have skills in the use of advanced technology, achieved through professional upgrading in order to apply them for the benefit of society as a whole. Professional upgrading makes it possible for professionals to be updated and updatable in advanced technologies that make it easier for them to remain competent and competitive in any of the scenarios. In that respect, the development of skills in the use of advanced technology means learning a unique language, incorporating new rules and using new experiences to learn how to interact effectively in this world. Health technology requires professionals with a broad and integrative profile, who, through professional upgrading, appropriate knowledge for themselves and develop skills in the use of advanced technology(AU)

Correlation and agreement between the Mohindra and cycloplegic retinoscopy techniques in children.

PURPOSE: As an objective technique to assess refractive status, retinoscopy is particularly useful in children. The Mohindra technique (RM) is an alternative for those patients not good candidates for cycloplegic retinoscopy (RC). The aim of the present research was to compare both techniques and to determine the correlation and agreement of their measurements. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 47 boys and girls of ages ranging from 3 to 11 years old were included in the study. Cycloplegic (cyclopentolate 1%) and Mohindra retinoscopy were conducted in both eyes, and refraction was also assessed with an autorefractometre (AR). The results from the three techniques were compared and a correction factor between RM and RC was calculated. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were found between RM and RC (median of -0.42 D; p < 0.001) and between RM and AR (median of -0.42 D; p = 0.008), but not between RC and AR (median of 0.00 D; p = 0.758). A strong correlation was found between RM and RC (rho = 0.846; p < 0.001), although the Bland-Altman test revealed a larger difference between these techniques in patients with larger hyperopic refractive errors, with a correction factor of RC = 1.15 RM + 0.42. CONCLUSIONS: The Mohindra technique may be considered a valid alternative to cycloplegic retinoscopy in patients of young age, with a good correlation between both techniques, albeit less agreement in patients with high hyperopic refractions.

Correlación y concordancia entre la técnica de retinoscopia de Mohindra y la retinoscopia con ciclopléjico en la infancia / Correlation and agreement between the Mohindra and cycloplegic retinoscopy techniques in children

Objetivo: La retinoscopia, como técnica objetiva de evaluación del estado refractivo, es especialmente útil en la edad infantil. La técnica de Mohindra (RM) es una alternativa para aquellos pacientes en los que no es viable la retinoscopia mediante ciclopléjico (RC). En el presente estudio se pretende comparar ambas técnicas para determinar su correlación y concordancia.Materiales y métodos: Se seleccionaron a 47 niños y niñas con edades comprendidas entre los 3 y 11 años. Se determinó para ambos ojos la refracción con RM y RC (ciclopentolato 1%), así como con autorefractómetro (AR). Se compararon los resultados de las tres técnicas y se calculó el factor de corrección correspondiente para equiparar RM con RC.Resultados: Se encontraron diferencias significativas entre RM y RC (mediana de -0,42 D; p<0,001) y entre RM y AR (mediana de -0,42 D; p=0,008), pero no entre RC y AR (mediana de 0,00 D; p=0,758). La correlación entre RM y RC fue excelente (rho=0,846; p<0,001) pero el test de Bland-Altman evidenció una mayor discrepancia entre técnicas a medida que aumentaba la refracción hipermetrópica, con un factor de corrección de RC=1,15 RM + 0,42. Conclusiones: La técnica de Mohindra se puede considerar como una alternativa válida a la retinoscopía mediante ciclopléjico en pacientes en edad escolar y preescolar, con una buena correlación entre ambas técnicas, pero con menor concordancia en hipermetropías elevadas.

Purpose: As an objective technique to assess refractive status, retinoscopy is particularly useful in children. The Mohindra technique (RM) is an alternative for those patients not good candidates for cycloplegic retinoscopy (RC). The aim of the present research was to compare both techniques and to determine the correlation and agreement of their measurements.Material and Methods: A total of 47 boys and girls of ages ranging from 3 to 11 years old were included in the study. Cycloplegic (cyclopentolate 1%) and Mohindra retinoscopy were conducted in both eyes, and refraction was also assessed with an autorefractometre (AR). The results from the three techniques were compared and a correction factor between RM and RC was calculated.Results: Statistically significant differences were found between RM and RC (median of -0.42 D; p<0.001) and between RM and AR (median of -0.42 D; p=0.008), but not between RC and AR (median of 0.00 D; p=0.758). A strong correlation was found between RM and RC (rho=0.846; p<0.001), although the Bland-Altman test revealed a larger difference between these techniques in patients with larger hyperopic refractive errors, with a correction factor of RC=1.15 RM + 0.42.Conclusions: The Mohindra technique may be considered a valid alternative to cycloplegic retinoscopy in patients of young age, with a good correlation between both techniques, albeit less agreement in patients with high hyperopic refractions.

Impact of COVID-19 on academic activities and way forward in Indian Optometry.

PURPOSE: Academia is experiencing massive reforms globally amid lockdown in COVID-19 outbreak. This study is aimed to apprehend the enabling and impeding factors of these reforms, with a focus on optometry education. It brings together how the Indian optometry educational system has responded to COVID-19 disruptions with findings of the 2020 survey, in light of similar survey done in 2018. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional survey was designed to find changes in optometry training and adaptations of Indian optometry educators amid COVID 19 lockdown. In the last week of April 2020, on the observation that the majority of optometry institutions have switched their teaching-learning activities on e-learning mode, an online survey was conducted using a validated questionnaire containing a mix of open and close-ended questions. RESULTS: Seventy-three out of 78 optometry educators (93.58%) have switched to e-learning mode in a very short time span with good confidence. Most teaching-learning and assessment activities are carried out using multi-device supporting video conferencing tools, dedicated educational portals and social media apps. CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic is proving to be a constructive disruptor, giving an opportunity for restructuring the present conventional, classroom based educational system. The quick transitions to online mode assisted in keeping continuity of optometry education programs, effectively fitting in the purpose of completion of the current academic year. The rapid transition to online education has not only benefited optometry students but also has created a momentum of continued education for practicing optometrist in the country.

Competencies and training needs of the Portuguese optometrists - a national inquiry.

PURPOSE: The World Health Organization places the Optometrist as the primary eye care provider, clearly defining its competencies and scope of practice. In Portugal, there are no studies about Optometrists professional competencies and the profession remains unregulated. The aim of this study was to describe the Portuguese optometrists' professional competencies model and to identify possible training needs felt. METHODS: A questionnaire survey was carried out, with the Portuguese optometric population as target group, ascertaining the level of academic qualifications, the clinical procedures most frequently performed, the training needs felt and the confidence levels in the performance of certain procedures. RESULTS: The 444 validated surveys represent 28.41% of the study population, making it a representative sample. The validated sample had 78.8% of Graduates, 20.5% of Masters and 0.7% of PhDs in Optometry. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study allowed us to conclude that the competences most frequently performed by Portuguese optometrists are a very reductive view of the internationally stipulated, based on Refraction, Basic Ocular Health Assessment, Contactology and Paediatric Optometry in School Age (>6 years old). The most important training needs occur at the level of Applied Ocular Pharmacology, Prismatic Prescription, Optometry in Special Needs Populations, Contactology in Special Cases, Low Vision and Clinical/Hospital Internship. Professional experience of 10 years or more and Master's/PhD qualifications give rise to more skills, higher levels of confidence and lower training needs. Higher frequency of execution of certain procedures translates into high levels of confidence and less training needs in the area.

Differential visual acuity - A new approach to measuring visual acuity.

BACKGROUND: A novel type of acuity measurement, which we refer to as 'differential acuity', requires the observer to identify one unique target among three others which are identical. This is a proof of concept study aimed to determine if differential acuity is equivalent to standard measures of recognition acuity. METHODS: To create a range of visual acuity, vision was optically blurred in sixteen adults with normal visual acuity. Visual acuity was then measured with the differential acuity targets in both crowded and uncrowded format, and compared with standard ETDRS acuity or with singly presented letters and uncrowded letters were analysed separately. RESULTS: The visual acuity results for crowded and uncrowded letters were analysed separately. Repeated measures analysis of variance showed that when a crowded Sloan C had to be differentiated from three crowded Os (CvsO), the results were not significantly different from ETDRS acuity or from naming one of four letters presented centrally (Name4) (p<0.05). Similar results were found for uncrowded letters - the C versus O and Name4 gave similar visual acuity. The 95% limits of agreement between the naming and C versus O differential acuity measures were between 0.17 and 0.27 logMAR. CONCLUSION: From this proof of concept study we conclude that differential acuity gives similar results to the ETDRS chart in adults. We infer that the comparable but cognitively simpler differential visual acuity task could be applied in clinical settings for young children or patients with developmental delay who cannot respond by naming or matching.

Percepciones sobre el conocimiento de la detección temprana de la ambliopía de médicos generales y pediatras de Bucaramanga / Perceptions on knowledge about the early detection of amblyopia among general practitioners and pediatricians in Bucaramanga / Percepções sobre o conhecimento da detecção precoce de ambliopia de médicos gerais e pediatras de Bucaramanga

Introducción. La ambliopía es un desorden visual originado durante el desarrollo cortical considerándose la causa de ceguera prevenible más frecuente. El diagnóstico y tratamiento temprano han demostrado ser efectivos; sin embargo, su detección es tardía debido, en parte, a falta de conocimiento. El objetivo del presente artículo es describir las percepciones sobre el conocimiento de médicos generales y pediatras en Bucaramanga acerca de la detección temprana de la ambliopía. Metodología. Se realizó un estudio cualitativo descriptivo de tipo exploratorio, utilizando como técnica entrevistas semi-estructuradas a 20 profesionales de la salud, para ello se usó el enfoque de Taylor y Bogdan. Resultados. Las entrevistas permitieron identificar dos categorías: falencias en el proceso de formación del pregrado y posgrado, y barreras de infraestructura para la realización de valoración visual; además de cuatro subcategorías entre las que se identifican conceptos erróneos sobre la ambliopía, falta de claridad sobre la edad oportuna para la realización de la valoración visual de primera vez, así como imaginarios errados relacionados con la valoración y remisión a servicios especializados de optometría y oftalmología. Discusión. El estudio permitió develar la falta de conocimientos de los profesionales de la salud y las distintas causas que contribuyen a esta problemática, así como la importancia del fortalecimiento de este tema en los currículos. Conclusión. Es necesario fortalecer el conocimiento de los médicos generales y pediatras con el fin de detectar precozmente los niños en riesgo de ambliopía y reducir la carga de la enfermedad. Cómo citar: Maldonado Rueda SJ, Marzal Guerra EE, Delgado-Serrano J, Cepeda-Bareño DF, Oviedo Cáceres MP. Percepciones sobre el conocimiento de la detección temprana de la ambliopía de médicos generales y pediatras de Bucaramanga. MedUNAB. 2020;23(1):62-71. doi:10.29375/01237047.3782

Introduction. Amblyopia is a visual disorder that arises during cortical development, and is considered the most frequent cause of preventable blindness. Early diagnosis and treatment have been demonstrated to be highly effective. However, it is often detected at a late stage, partly due to lack of knowledge. The purpose of this article is to describe the perceived knowledge of general practitioners and pediatricians in Bucaramanga on the early detection of amblyopia. Methodology. A descriptive, qualitative exploratory study was performed, by means of semistructured interviews of 20 healthcare professionals, using the approach suggested by Taylor and Bogdan. Results. The interview results found two types of issues: shortcomings in undergraduate and graduate training, lack of infrastructure to perform the visual assessment. It also detected four sub-categories, including incorrect concepts about amblyopia, lack of clarity about the right age to perform the first-time visual assessment, and erroneous beliefs about the assessment and referral to specialized optometry and ophthalmology services. Discussion. The study found gaps in knowledge by healthcare professionals as well as the different contributing factors to this problem, and indicates the importance of strengthening this subject in the curricula. Conclusion. It is necessary to strengthen knowledge among general practitioners and pediatricians to enable the early detection of children at risk of amblyopia and reduce the burden of this disease. Cómo citar: Maldonado Rueda SJ, Marzal Guerra EE, Delgado-Serrano J, Cepeda-Bareño DF, Oviedo Cáceres MP. Percepciones sobre el conocimiento de la detección temprana de la ambliopía de médicos generales y pediatras de Bucaramanga. MedUNAB. 2020;23(1):62-71. doi:10.29375/01237047.3782

Introdução. A ambliopia é um transtorno visual causado durante o desenvolvimento cortical, considerado a causa mais frequente de cegueira evitável. O diagnóstico e o tratamento precoce provaram ser eficazes; no entanto, sua detecção é tardia devido, em parte, à falta de conhecimento. O objetivo deste artigo é descrever as percepções sobre o conhecimento de médicos gerais e pediatras em Bucaramanga a respeito da detecção precoce da ambliopia. Métodos. Foi realizado um estudo descritivo, exploratório e qualitativo, utilizando entrevistas semiestruturadas com 20 profissionais de saúde, fazendo uso da abordagem de Taylor e Bogdan. Resultados. As entrevistas permitiram identificar duas categorias, falhas no processo de formação dos graduandos e pósgraduandos, barreiras de infraestrutura para realizar avaliação visual e quatro subcategorias, entre as quais estão: conceitos errôneos sobre a ambliopia, falta de clareza sobre a idade apropriada para realizar a primeira avaliação visual, bem como uma valoração errônea relacionada com a avaliação e encaminhamento para serviços especializados de optometria e oftalmologia. Discussão. O estudo revelou o desconhecimento dos profissionais da saúde e as diferentes causas que contribuem para esse problema, bem como a importância de fortalecer essa questão nos currículos. Conclusão. É necessário ampliar o conhecimento dos médicos gerais e pediatras na detecção precoce das crianças em risco de ambliopia e reduzir a carga da doença. Cómo citar: Maldonado Rueda SJ, Marzal Guerra EE, Delgado-Serrano J, Cepeda-Bareño DF, Oviedo Cáceres MP. Percepciones sobre el conocimiento de la detección temprana de la ambliopía de médicos generales y pediatras de Bucaramanga. MedUNAB. 2020;23(1):62-71. doi:10.29375/01237047.3782

La queratometría como variable predictora de la ametropía: un estudio diagnóstico en la población escolarizada de 5 a 19 años de la ciudad de pereira

Objetivo: determinar la relación entre la curvatura corneal y los defectos de refracción en la población estudiantil de 5 a 19 años de la ciudad de Pereira en el año 2014. Materiales y métodos: el tipo de estudio es observacional correlacional descriptivo. Se indica el modelo de regresión lineal simple entre la queratometría y la retinoscopía. Se evaluó el error refractivo en 915 estudiantes de Pereira mediante retinoscopía estática y queratometría. Resultados: el valor cilíndrico obtenido para el ojo derecho (OD) oscila entre -0,12 y -5,50 dpt, mientras que para el ojo izquierdo (OI), el valor oscila entre -0,12 y -6,12 dpt. El 86,6% del meridiano eje (ME) del OD está entre 38,00 y 43,88 dpt, en tanto que el 87,2% del ME del OI se encuentra entre 32,00 y 43,88 dpt. La ametropía positiva para el OD está entre 0,25 y 8,00 dpt; para el OI en 0,25 y 7,50dpt. La ametropía negativa está en 6,00 para el OD y 6,50 dpt para el OI como valores máximos. En relación a la curvatura corneal y a las ametropías, el OD muestra una correlación de Pearson negativa, de -0,21 (p=0.0001). En el OI la correlación de Pearson también es negativa, de -0,20 (p=0.0001). Por lo tanto, la relación encontrada entre estas dos variables es tan solo del 5,1% y un 4,7% para OD y OI, respectivamente. Conclusiones: la relación entre la curvatura corneal y los errores de refracción según este modelo solo explica un porcentaje insignificante que no tiene importancia clínica, es del 4,9% en promedio del valor obtenido en el error refractivo en ambos ojos. Por ello, no es posible hacer una predicción de los errores refractivos con base en el radio de la curvatura corneal.

Objective: The purpose of this research was to determine the relationship between corneal curvature and refractive errors in schooled population between the ages of 5 to 19 in the city of Pereira in 2014. Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive correlational observational study, in which the simple linear regression model between keratometry and retinoscopy is indicated. Through static retinoscopy and keratometry, refractive error was evaluated in 915 students of Pereira. Results: The cylindrical value obtained for the RE (right eye) oscillates between -0.12 and -5.50 dpt and for the LI (left eye) -0.12 and -6.12 dpt, where 86.6% of the Axis (ME in Spanish) RE is between 38.00 and 43.88dpt, while 87.2% of Axis LE is between 32.00 and 43.88dpt. The positive ametropia for the RE is between 0.25 and 8.00dpt, for the LE 0.25 and 7.50dpt, the negative in RE 6.00 and OI 6.50dpt as maximum values. In relation to corneal curvature and ametropias, the RE shows a negative Pearson correlation of -0.21 (p = 0.0001). In the LE the Pearson correlation is also negative, of -0.20 (p = 0.0001). Therefore, the relationship found between these two variables is only 5.1% and 4.7% for RE and LE respectively. Conclusions: The relationship between corneal curvature and refractive errors according to this model only explains an insignificant percentage that does not have clinical importance, it is a 4.9% on average of the value obtained in the refractive error in both eyes, therefore, it does not allow a prediction of refractive errors based on the radius of corneal curvature.

Objetivo. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi determinar a relação entre a curvatura da córnea e erros de refração na população estudantil de 5 a 19 anos de idade na cidade de Pereira em 2014. Materiais e Métodos. 0 tipo de estudo é descritivo correlacional observacional, no qual o modelo de regressão linear simples entre ceratometria e retinoscopia é indicado. Por meio de retinoscopia estática e ceratometria, o erro refrativo foi avaliado em 915 estudantes de Pereira. Resultados. O valor cilíndrico obtido para o OD (olho direito) é entre -0,12 e -5,50dpt e para o OI (olho esquerdo) e -0,12dpt e -6,12, onde 86,6% do Meridiano Eje (ME) OD está entre 38,00 e 43,88dpt, enquanto que 87,2% do ME 01 está entre 32,00 e 43,88dpt. A ametropia positiva para o OD está entre 0,25 e 8,00dpt, para o OI 0,25 e 7,50dpt, a ametropia negativa em OD 6,00 e OI 6,50dpt como valores máximos. Em relação à curvatura corneana e ametropias, o OD mostra uma correlação negativa de Pearson de -0,21 (p = 0,0001). No OI, a correlação de Pearson também é negativa, de -0,20 (p = 0,0001). Portanto, a relação encontrada entre essas duas variáveis é de apenas 5,1% e 4,7% para OD e OI, respectivamente. Conclusões. A relação entre a curvatura corneana e os erros refra-tivos de acordo com este modelo explica apenas uma percentagem insignificante de nenhuma importância clínica, é de 4,9%, em média, do valor obtido no erro refrativo em ambos os olhos, de modo que, não permite fazer uma previsão de erros refrativos com base no raio da curvatura corneana.

Prevalence of esophoria in concussed patients.

PURPOSE: To assess the prevalence of esophoria at near in concussed patients in a neuro-optometric private practice setting. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed involving a chart review in a neuro-optometric, private practice setting of consecutive patients with a medical diagnosis of concussion from January 1st 2016 to December 31st 2016. A total of 71 patients were included in the analysis. All received a comprehensive vision examination, with a near vision emphasis. The near horizontal phoria was assessed with the cover test and the von Graefe test. RESULTS: Approximately 30% of the patients with a medically based diagnosis of concussion exhibited esophoria at near, with good agreement (95%) between the two tests. Mean esophoria was 5.2 (SD=2.8) prism diopters (pd), with a range from 2pd to 14pd of esophoria. Convergence excess was diagnosed in 23%. DISCUSSION: Near esophoria was found in nearly one-third of this practice-based sample of concussed patients. Thus, it was more common than typically believed to be the case. Two proposed oculomotor-based mechanisms related to these symptomatic esophoric patients included phoria decompensation and excessive accommodative vergence.

Asthenopic symptoms prevalence in undergraduate students / Prevalência de sintomas astenópicos em estudantes do ensino superior

Abstract Objective: To analyze the prevalence of asthenic symptoms in students of higher education and to assess their influence on academic performance and learning. Methods: Descriptive research with cross-sectional design through the application of the College of Optometrists Questionnaire in Vision Development Quality of Life (COVDL-QoL), in its cross-cultural and linguistic adaptation to the Portuguese language, to the students of a private college in the city of Montes Claros. Results: The questionnaire was answered by 132 university students. There was no significant discrepancy in the prevalence of asthenopia between genders and age. Symptoms of headache, poor memory and loss of objects predominated in women, while sleepiness during reading and poor management of time were predominant in males. Conclusion: A high prevalence rate of asthenic symptoms among university students and positive associations with sex and time of use of electronic equipment was identified.

Resumo Objetivo: Analisar a prevalência de sintomas astenópicos em estudantes do ensino superior e avaliar a sua influência no desempenho acadêmico e no aprendizado. Métodos: Pesquisa descritiva com delineamento transversal por meio da aplicação do Questionário College of Optometrists in Vision Development Quality of Life (COVDL-QoL), em sua adaptação transcultural e linguística para a língua portuguesa, aos alunos de uma faculdade particular da cidade de Montes Claros. Resultados: O questionário foi respondido por 132 universitários. Não houve discrepância significativa na prevalência de astenopia entre os sexos e a idade. Os sintomas de dor de cabeça, memória fraca e perda de objetos predominaram nas mulheres, enquanto a sonolência durante a leitura e o mau gerenciamento do tempo foram predominantes no sexo masculino. Conclusão: Foi identificada alta taxa de prevalência de sintomas astenópicos entre os universitários e associações positivas com sexo e tempo de utilização de equipamentos eletrônicos.

Effect of superior blepharoplasty on tear film: objective evaluation with the Keratograph 5M - a pilot study / Efeito da blefaroplastia superior no filme lacrimal - avaliação objetiva com ceratógrafo 5M - estudo piloto

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the effect of superior blepharoplasty on the tear film using the corneal topographer Keratograph 5M. Methods: A prospective study was performed of 27 eyes of 14 patients with superior dermatochalasis who underwent superior blepharoplasty between May and June 2016. Conservative upper eyelid blepharoplasty was performed by an en bloc resection of anterior lamellar tissue that included skin, subcutaneous tissue, and the orbicularis oculi muscle. All the eyes were imaged using the noninvasive tear breakup time tools of the Keratograph 5M. The following parameters were recorded in each patient before and 6 weeks after surgery: first noninvasive Keratograph 5M tear breakup time (the time at which the first breakup of tears occurs) and average noninvasive Keratograph 5M tear breakup time (the average time of all breakup incidents). The exclusion criteria were ophthalmological pathology, previous eyelid surgery, use of eye drops, systemic pathology, and medication that interferes with lacrimal tears. Results: The mean age of the patients was 65.1 years (range, 51-84); 86% were female. Student's t-test was used to compare the values of first and average noninvasive Keratograph 5M tear breakup times before and after surgery. The values for first noninvasive Keratograph 5M tear breakup time evaluated before and after surgery were not significantly different (9.04 and 8.71, respectively; p=0.926). The values for average noninvasive Keratograph 5M tear breakup time evaluated before and after surgery were also not significantly different (13.01 seconds and 13.14 seconds, respectively; p=0.835). Conclusions: The results of this pilot study suggest that upper blepharoplasty does not affect tear breakup time according to the objective evaluation of breakup time with the Keratograph 5M.

RESUMO Objetivos: Avaliar o efeito da blefaroplastia superior no filme lacrimal, utilizando o topógrafo de córnea Keratograph 5M. Métodos: Foi realizado estudo prospectivo de 27 olhos de 14 pacientes com dermatocálase superior submetidos à blefaroplastia superior entre maio e junho de 2016. A blefaroplastia palpebral superior conservadora foi realizada por ressecção em bloco de tecido lamelar anterior que incluiu pele, tecido subcutâneo e músculo orbicular do olho. Todos os olhos foram fotografados usando as ferramentas não-invasivas de tempo de ruptura do lacrimal do Keratograph 5M. Os seguintes parâmetros foram registrados em cada paciente antes e 6 semanas após a cirurgia: primeiro tempo não-invasivo de ruptura lacrimal de Keratograph 5M (o tempo em que ocorre o primeiro rompimento dos rasgos) e média não-invasiva do tempo de ruptura lacrimal (tempo médio de todos os incidentes de ruptura). Os critérios de exclusão foram: patologia oftalmológica, cirurgia anterior das pálpebras, uso de colírio, patologia sistêmica e medicação que interfere na ruptura lacrimal. Resultados: A idade média de idade dos pacientes foi de 65,1 anos (variação entre 51-84); 86% eram do sexo feminino. O teste t de Student foi usado para comparar os valores não-invasivos do tempo de ruptura lacrimal do Keratograph 5M e do tempo de ruptura lacrimal não invasivo do mesmo antes e após a cirurgia. Os valores não-invasivos do tempo de ruptura lacrimal do Keratograph 5M avaliados antes e após a cirurgia não foram significativamente diferentes (9,04 e 8,71, respectivamente; p=0,926). Os valores do tempo médio de ruptura lacrimal do Keratograph 5M avaliados antes e após a cirurgia, também não foram significativamente diferentes (13,01 e 13,14 segundos, respectivamente; p=0,835). Conclusão: Os resultados deste estudo piloto sugerem que a blefaroplastia superior não afeta o tempo de ruptura lacrimal de acordo com a avaliação objetiva do tempo de ruptura com o Keratograph 5M.

Roberto Muñoz Monroy, el hermano del Médico del Moncada / Roberto Muñoz Monroy, the Moncada´s Doctor

Roberto Muñoz Monroy, fue el hermano menor del Médico del Moncada, Mario Muñoz Monroy. Fue también, un destacado colombino, que además de optometrista, incursionó en la música, el teatro y trabajó en el rescate de la historia del territorio (AU).

Roberto Muñoz Monroy was the youngest brother of Mario Muñoz Monroy, the Moncada´s doctor. He also was a conspicuous citizen of Colon that besides being an optometrist, played music and theater, and worked in rescuing the territorial history (AU).

Roberto Muñoz Monroy, el hermano del Médico del Moncada / Roberto Muñoz Monroy, the Moncada´s Doctor

Roberto Muñoz Monroy, fue el hermano menor del Médico del Moncada, Mario Muñoz Monroy. Fue también, un destacado colombino, que además de optometrista, incursionó en la música, el teatro y trabajó en el rescate de la historia del territorio (AU).

Roberto Muñoz Monroy was the youngest brother of Mario Muñoz Monroy, the Moncada´s doctor. He also was a conspicuous citizen of Colon that besides being an optometrist, played music and theater, and worked in rescuing the territorial history (AU).

Insuficiencia de convergencia: opciones terapéuticas en dos féminas / Convergence inadequacy: therapeutic options in two women

Se presentan 2 casos clínicos de féminas de 49 y 25 años, que acudieron a la consulta de Optometría en la Facultad de Enfermería y Tecnología de la Salud "Dr. Juan Manuel Páez Inchausti" de Santiago de Cuba, por presentar marcado cansancio visual durante el trabajo prolongado e intolerancia a la nueva corrección óptica. Se efectuó una evaluación optométrica integral, que mostró en ambos casos una insuficiencia de convergencia. Por las características de las pacientes, se decidió indicar prisma inducido por descentración del centro óptico en la que presentaba presbicia, y continuar la adaptación de la nueva corrección óptica, además de ejercicios de convergencia, en la afectada más joven. Con estos procedimientos se eliminaron los síntomas en ellas.

Two case reports of 49 and 25 years women are presented that went to the Optometry Service of "Dr. Juan Manuel Páez Inchausti" Nursing and Health Technology Faculty in Santiago de Cuba, due to a marked visual fatigue during the lingering work and intolerance to the new optic correction. A comprehensive optometric evaluation was made that showed in both cases a convergence inadequacy. Due to the characteristics of the patients, it was decided to indicate prism induced by unfocused optic center in the one presenting presbyopia, and to continue the adaptation of the new optic correction, besides convergence exercises, in the younger affected patient. With these procedures the symptoms were eliminated in them.

Insuficiencia de convergencia: opciones terapéuticas en dos féminas / Convergence inadequacy: therapeutic options in two women

Se presentan 2 casos clínicos de féminas de 49 y 25 años, que acudieron a la consulta de Optometría en la Facultad de Enfermería y Tecnología de la Salud Dr Juan Manuel Páez Inchausti de Santiago de Cuba, por presentar marcado cansancio visual durante el trabajo prolongado e intolerancia a la nueva corrección óptica. Se efectuó una evaluación optométrica integral, que mostró en ambos casos una insuficiencia de convergencia. Por las características de las pacientes, se decidió indicar prisma inducido por descentración del centro óptico en la que presentaba presbicia, y continuar la adaptación de la nueva corrección óptica, además de ejercicios de convergencia, en la afectada más joven. Con estos procedimientos se eliminaron los síntomas en ellas(AU)

Two case reports of 49 and 25 years women are presented that went to the Optometry Service of Dr Juan Manuel Páez Inchausti Nursing and Health Technology Faculty in Santiago de Cuba, due to a marked visual fatigue during the lingering work and intolerance to the new optic correction. A comprehensive optometric evaluation was made that showed in both cases a convergence inadequacy. Due to the characteristics of the patients, it was decided to indicate prism induced by unfocused optic center in the one presenting presbyopia, and to continue the adaptation of the new optic correction, besides convergence exercises, in the younger affected patient. With these procedures the symptoms were eliminated in them(AU)

Bibliometric analysis of the scientific production in the area of Optometry.

OBJECTIVE: Using a bibliometric approach an analysis was made of the scientific publications of Spanish investigators in the area of optometry, from 1974 until 2013. METHODS: The EMBASE database was used for this study, employing optomtr*, optic*, visual, vision, eye*, and ophthalm* as search terms. The most common bibliometric indicators were applied for the selected publications. RESULTS: The number of published articles retrieved for Spain from 1974-2013 was 1,055. The growth of publications was more exponential (R=0.93) than linear (R= 0.71). The doubling time of scientific production was 3.63 years. The level of productivity primarily corresponded to small producers (Transience index of 64%). The collaboration index was 4.4 authors per paper. The majority of the output was generated in academic settings (62.27%). The Bradford core was formed by four journals, in which Optometry and Vision Science accounted for the majority of publications, with 11.85%. CONCLUSIONS: Research in the area of optometry in Spain is in a phase of exponential growth, containing a high level of transient authors, which may indicate either a low productivity or the presence of investigators from other related fields that have published in a sporadic manner in this area. A small number of research groups are responsible for producing the majority of articles, primarily in an academic setting. There is a high concentration of publications in a few journals.

Perceptions of acceptable conducts by university students.

OBJECTIVE: To determine perceptions of acceptable conducts amongst under and postgraduate optometry students and to compare them with students from other disciplines. METHODS: Students (under/postgraduate) of optometry (n=156) and other courses (n=54) from University of Minho participated in a voluntary online questionnaire about perception of conducts, classifying as acceptable or unacceptable 15 academic or professional scenarios. RESULTS: 210 questionnaires were analyzed. Differences in perceptions were found between optometry under and postgraduates in scenario 5, Chi-square(2,156)=4.3, p=0.038, and scenario 7, Chi-square(2,156)=7.0, p=0.008 (both with cheating more acceptable for postgrads). Differences between under and postgraduates from other courses were found in scenario 9 (taking supplies from classroom more acceptable for undergrads), Chi-square(1,54)=5.0, p=0.025, and scenario 14 (forging a signature more acceptable for postgrads), Chi-square(1,54)=3.9, p=0.046. Differences between optometry and other courses undergraduates were observed in scenario 2 (plagiarism more acceptable for optometry undergrads), Chi-square(1,154)=8.3, p=0.004 and scenario 9 (taking supplies from classroom more acceptable for other undergrads), chi-square(1,54)=7.8, p=0.005. Differences between optometry and other courses postgraduates were observed in scenario 7, Chi-square(1,56)=5.8, p=0.016, scenario 10 (both with cheating more acceptable for optometry postgrads), chi-square(1,54)=8.1, p=0.004 and scenario 14 (forging a signature more acceptable for other postgrads), Chi-square(1,54)=6.1, p=0.026. CONCLUSION: Academic misconducts were mainly considered more acceptable than professional misconducts. Our results show that perceptions of acceptable conducts amongst optometry students are not very different from other students, and, against our initial prediction, do not show a general change in misconduct perception when students become more mature. Universities should pay more attention to this problem and take action.