Four radial linear excisions were created by an argon fluoride (193 nm) excimer laser in the edematous cornea of a blind eye of a diabetic human patient. Partial thickness corneal trephinations were performed at 3, 7, and 18 months after surgery for histopathologic examination. At 3 months, a wide gap in Bowman's layer permitted extension of an epithelial plug to a depth of 0.35 mm; at 7 and 18 months, the depth of the epithelial plug was decreased to 0.29 mm and 0.01 mm, respectively. With wound healing, excision width decreased and the two cut ends of Bowman's layer were almost reapposed by 18 months, suggesting wound contraction. Linear excisions with the excimer laser appear to be wider than incisions made with a diamond blade, but the pattern of wound maturation appears to be similar.

Biopsy↗

PubMedDate not supplied

Shared experiences: three programs serving HIV-positive youths.

This article presents the major components of three models of linked psychosocial care for HIV-positive youths and youths at high risk for HIV infection: YouthCare (Seattle, Washington), TOPS Program (Bridgeport, Connecticut), and Boston HAPPENS (Boston, Massachusetts). These models were developed to connect hard-to-reach and otherwise marginalized youths to needed services. All sites have successful programs that are well integrated with their communities' systems of care for HIV-positive adolescents. The projects share their program elements, successes, and challenges. Practical suggestions are offered to those interested in providing and evaluating youth-oriented HIV care programs.

Adolescent↗