...Nintendo, Sony and Toshiba have all issued warnings telling parents to keep young children from playing 3-D games and watching movies shown in 3-D. But now, an organization representing family eye doctors says 3-D may not be bad for kids after all....
Comments: Read full story by clicking on the title above. DM
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Autism-vaccine researcher a "fraud": medical journal
...(Reuters) - Dr. Andrew Wakefield, the-now disgraced British doctor who published studies linking vaccines with autism, committed an "elaborate fraud" by faking data, the British Medical Journal said on Wednesday.
The journal's editors said it was not possible that Wakefield made a mistake but must have falsified the data for his study, which convinced thousands of parents that vaccines are dangerous and which is blamed for ongoing outbreaks of measles and mumps.....
Comments: Read more about this by clicking on the title above. DM
The journal's editors said it was not possible that Wakefield made a mistake but must have falsified the data for his study, which convinced thousands of parents that vaccines are dangerous and which is blamed for ongoing outbreaks of measles and mumps.....
Comments: Read more about this by clicking on the title above. DM
New Hand-Held 3D Gaming Devices May Help Uncover Undiagnosed Vision Problems
New Hand-Held 3D Gaming Devices May Help Uncover Undiagnosed Vision Problems
American Optometric Association Advises Moderation in Use, No Evidence Yet of Harmful Effects
St. Louis, January 5, 2011 -- The American Optometric Association (AOA), representing America’s family eye doctors (optometrists), says 3D in movies, TV and even 3D on Nintendo's 3DS isn't necessarily bad for adults or children. In fact, optometrists, professional health care providers committed to children’s vision and eye health, say 3D viewing may actually help uncover subtle disorders that, left uncorrected, often result in learning difficulties.
In this context, it is not enough to have 20/20 visual acuity. Eye muscles must be coordinated well enough to experience single, clear and comfortable vision by maintaining alignment of both eyes. The brain must also match appropriate accommodative or focusing power with where the eyes are aimed. Often, subtle problems with these vision skills can lead to rapid fatigue of the eyes and loss of 3D viewing, but also loss of place when reading or copying, reduced reading comprehension, poor grades and increased frustration at school. Difficulties with appreciating 3D in movies, TV and Nintendo's 3DS, or discomfort when engaging in these activities may be an important sign of undetected vision disorders. Parents should be aware that current vision screening technologies employed in schools and pediatricians’ offices cannot substitute for comprehensive eye exams that detect and treat these problems.
Nintendo has issued a warning that children under 6 should not use the 3DS in 3D mode. While studies on the effects of prolonged 3D viewing on young children remain to be done, leaning toward the side of caution is advisable in guiding children to use these devices in moderation. Since vision develops from birth, it is crucial to uncover the type of vision disorders that may interfere with Nintendo 3D viewing at an early age. Although success can be attained in treating conditions such as amblyopia (lazy eye) and strabismus (eye turn) beyond age 6, the outcome is always better when children are treated as soon as signs of these problems are detected. Accordingly, children younger than 6 can use the 3DS in 3D mode if their visual system is developing normally.
The AOA and the American Public Health Association (APHA) both encourage a regular comprehensive eye examination schedule so that all children have eye exams performed at approximately age 6-12 months, 2-3 years, and by 5 years of age. 1 Although recommended, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that less than 15% of all preschool children receive a comprehensive eye exam.2 If children experience the “3Ds of 3D viewing”—Discomfort, Dizziness, or lack of Depth—it is crucial to have a comprehensive eye examination by a doctor of optometry.
1 http://www.apha.org/advocacy/policy/policysearch/default.htm?id=240
2 http://www.cdc.gov/visionhealth/publications/vhi_report.htm
About the AOA:
The American Optometric Association represents approximately 36,000 doctors of optometry, optometry students and paraoptometric assistants and technicians. Optometrists serve patients in nearly 6,500 communities across the country, and in 3,500 of those communities are the only eye doctors. Doctors of optometry provide two-thirds of all primary eye care in the United States.
For additional information contact: Susan Thomas at (314) 483-4263 or slthomas@aoa.org
Comments: Another great resource in this area is the College of Optometrists in Vision Development. DM
American Optometric Association Advises Moderation in Use, No Evidence Yet of Harmful Effects
St. Louis, January 5, 2011 -- The American Optometric Association (AOA), representing America’s family eye doctors (optometrists), says 3D in movies, TV and even 3D on Nintendo's 3DS isn't necessarily bad for adults or children. In fact, optometrists, professional health care providers committed to children’s vision and eye health, say 3D viewing may actually help uncover subtle disorders that, left uncorrected, often result in learning difficulties.
In this context, it is not enough to have 20/20 visual acuity. Eye muscles must be coordinated well enough to experience single, clear and comfortable vision by maintaining alignment of both eyes. The brain must also match appropriate accommodative or focusing power with where the eyes are aimed. Often, subtle problems with these vision skills can lead to rapid fatigue of the eyes and loss of 3D viewing, but also loss of place when reading or copying, reduced reading comprehension, poor grades and increased frustration at school. Difficulties with appreciating 3D in movies, TV and Nintendo's 3DS, or discomfort when engaging in these activities may be an important sign of undetected vision disorders. Parents should be aware that current vision screening technologies employed in schools and pediatricians’ offices cannot substitute for comprehensive eye exams that detect and treat these problems.
Nintendo has issued a warning that children under 6 should not use the 3DS in 3D mode. While studies on the effects of prolonged 3D viewing on young children remain to be done, leaning toward the side of caution is advisable in guiding children to use these devices in moderation. Since vision develops from birth, it is crucial to uncover the type of vision disorders that may interfere with Nintendo 3D viewing at an early age. Although success can be attained in treating conditions such as amblyopia (lazy eye) and strabismus (eye turn) beyond age 6, the outcome is always better when children are treated as soon as signs of these problems are detected. Accordingly, children younger than 6 can use the 3DS in 3D mode if their visual system is developing normally.
The AOA and the American Public Health Association (APHA) both encourage a regular comprehensive eye examination schedule so that all children have eye exams performed at approximately age 6-12 months, 2-3 years, and by 5 years of age. 1 Although recommended, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that less than 15% of all preschool children receive a comprehensive eye exam.2 If children experience the “3Ds of 3D viewing”—Discomfort, Dizziness, or lack of Depth—it is crucial to have a comprehensive eye examination by a doctor of optometry.
1 http://www.apha.org/advocacy/policy/policysearch/default.htm?id=240
2 http://www.cdc.gov/visionhealth/publications/vhi_report.htm
About the AOA:
The American Optometric Association represents approximately 36,000 doctors of optometry, optometry students and paraoptometric assistants and technicians. Optometrists serve patients in nearly 6,500 communities across the country, and in 3,500 of those communities are the only eye doctors. Doctors of optometry provide two-thirds of all primary eye care in the United States.
For additional information contact: Susan Thomas at (314) 483-4263 or slthomas@aoa.org
Comments: Another great resource in this area is the College of Optometrists in Vision Development. DM
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
The 3 Ds of 3-D Viewing:Doctors of Optometry Urge Consumers to be Aware of Discomfort, Dizziness and Lack of Depth
The 3 Ds of 3-D Viewing: Doctors of Optometry Urge Consumers to be Aware of Discomfort, Dizziness and Lack of Depth
Millions of Americans unable to see in 3-D but help is available in the form of optomric vision therapy
LAS VEGAS, January 6, 2011 ― Is 3-D technology the way of the future? It seems as though it’s being offered to consumers more and more in the form of blockbuster films, 3-D televisions with network programming to boot, and even in some computer games.
Since 3-D technology is all the rage, the MommyTech Conference will be discussing the pros and cons during the Consumer Electronics Show. “3-D Moms” will be one of the agenda topics during the conference on Saturday, January 8, 2011 beginning at 10:15 a.m. in room N260 of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Dr. Dominick Maino is an American Optometric Association 3-D expert and a professor of pediatrics/binocular vision at the Illinois College of Optometry’s Illinois Eye Institute. Dr. Maino will be participating in a panel discussion to talk about 3-D vision syndrome and why some Americans are unable to see in 3-D, as well as what steps can be taken to fix the problem.
“According to the American Optometric Association, anywhere from three to nine million people have problems with binocular vision prohibiting them from watching 3-D TV and movies,” said Dr. Maino. “Children are at higher risk for having undetected binocular vision problems because most only receive a simple vision screening that doesn’t check for problems that interfere with 3-D viewing. Instead, children should visit their local optometrist to receive a comprehensive eye exam.”
Binocular vision is the ability to align both eyes accurately on an object and combine the visual images from each eye into a single, in-depth perception. A problem comes from fatigue that occurs when 3-D technology forces the eyes to make adjustments to focus simultaneously on images that are near and far away.
Symptoms indicating a potential problem viewing images in 3-D can vary, but some common symptoms include headaches, blurred vision, nausea and dizziness.
“The good news for those who experience discomfort associated with 3-D viewing is there’s treatment to help fix the problem,” said Dr. Maino. “As the industry expands its 3-D technology offerings, it’s important that adults and children have their vision checked to ensure they are able to enjoy it as much as possible; and if they have difficulties, they should see their doctor of optometry.”
Studies have shown that optometric vision therapy can help alleviate common problems associated with 3-D viewing and make the experience of using the technology more enjoyable. Optometric vision therapy is a sequence of therapeutic procedures individually prescribed and monitored by an optometrist to develop efficient visual skills and processing. Following a comprehensive eye examination, the optometrist may prescribe vision therapy if the results of the exam indicate a need, and if it is determined an appropriate treatment option for the patient. A vision therapy program is based on the results of standardized tests, the needs of the patient, and the patient's signs and symptoms. Optometric vision therapy re-educates the brain to achieve single, clear, comfortable, two-eyed vision that improves eye coordination, focusing and eye movement, ultimately enhancing the 3-D viewing experience.
The AOA recommends seeing a doctor of optometry for further evaluation if consumers answer yes to any of the following questions:
• Is the 3-D viewing experience not as vivid as it is for others watching the same picture?
• Do you experience eyestrain or headaches during or after viewing?
• Do you feel nauseous or dizzy during or after viewing?
• Are you more comfortable viewing 2-D TV or movies instead of 3-D TV/movies?
• Is it difficult for your eyes to adjust back to normal after watching 3-D TV/movies?
The AOA also recommends visiting a doctor of optometry on an annual basis for comprehensive eye exams to help ensure healthy vision overall.
To find an optometrist in your area, or for additional information please visit the AOA’s Web site at http://www.aoa.org/ or the College of Optometry in Vision Development Web site at http://www.covd.org/.
About the American Optometric Association (AOA):
The American Optometric Association represents approximately 36,000 doctors of optometry, optometry students and paraoptometric assistants and technicians. Optometrists serve patients in nearly 6,500 communities across the country, and in 3,500 of those communities are the only eye doctors. Doctors of optometry provide two-thirds of all primary eye care in the United States.
American Optometric Association doctors of optometry are highly qualified, trained doctors on the frontline of eye and vision care who examine, diagnose, treat and manage diseases and disorders of the eye. In addition to providing eye and vision care, optometrists play a major role in a patient’s overall health and well-being by detecting systemic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
Prior to optometry school, optometrists typically complete four years of undergraduate study, culminating in a bachelor’s degree. Required undergraduate coursework for pre-optometry students is extensive and covers a wide variety of advanced health, science and mathematics. Optometry school consists of four years of post-graduate, doctoral study concentrating on both the eye and systemic health. In addition to their formal training, doctors of optometry must undergo annual continuing education to stay current on the latest standards of care. For more information, visit http://www.aoa.org/.
About the College of Optometrists in Vision Development
The College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD) is a non-profit, international membership association of eye care professionals including optometrists, optometry students, and vision therapists. Established in 1971, COVD provides board certification for eye doctors and vision therapists who are prepared to offer state-of-the-art services in:
Behavioral and developmental vision care
Optometric Vision therapy
Visual rehabilitation
These specialized vision care services develop and enhance visual abilities and correct many vision problems in infants, children, and adults.
The COVD International Examination and Certification Board process includes a rigorous evaluation of the eye care professional's knowledge and abilities in providing developmental and behavioral vision care for patients. Optometrists who successfully complete their certification process are Board Certified in Vision Development and Vision Therapy and are designated Fellows of COVD (FCOVD). Vision therapists are certified to work with COVD Fellows as Certified Optometric Vision Therapists (COVT).
Associate members of COVD are practicing optometrists who have not yet completed the Fellowship process. COVD associates are required to participate in professional continuing education to enhance their knowledge and skills in behavioral vision care.
Vision care provided by all COVD members is based on the principle that vision can be developed and changed. For example, we know that infants are not born with fully developed visual abilities and that good vision is developed through a learned process.
For more information go to http://www.covd.org/
About Dr. Dominick M. Maino
Dr. Dominick Maino is a Professor of Pediatrics/Binocular Vision at the Illinois Eye Institute/Illinois College of Optometry and is in private practice. He graduated from the Illinois College of Optometry, received his MEd at the University of Illinois Chicago and Bachelor’s degree from Beloit College. Dr. Maino is the past Director of the Institute for Advanced Competency Post-Graduate Continuing Education Program, an Adjunct Professor of Pediatrics/Binocular Vision at the Centro Boston de Optometria in Madrid Spain, and the Director of the Developmental Disabilities Service at the Neumann Association. He is a Fellow of both the American Academy of Optometry and the College of Optometrists in Vision Development, and holds membership in the American & Illinois Optometric Associations, Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association, and the Artists of Casa Italia.
Dr. Maino serves as the editor of Optometry and Vision Development, has authored approximately 200 books, chapters, and articles. Has given more than 100 presentations worldwide and is a co-author of the ASCOTech column for Optometric Education (Journal of the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry) and is currently the associate, consulting, and/or contributing editor/manuscript reviewer for numerous publications.
Dr. Maino has received recognition for his work from the Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association, College of Optometrists in Vision Development, Optometric Editors Association, and the Easter Seal Society of Metropolitan Chicago. He is an internationally recognized expert on oculo-visual problems of children and adults with disabilities. His research interests include special populations, pediatrics, and binocular vision dysfunction. Dr. Maino’s avocations include website design, blogging, music and photography.
Millions of Americans unable to see in 3-D but help is available in the form of optomric vision therapy
LAS VEGAS, January 6, 2011 ― Is 3-D technology the way of the future? It seems as though it’s being offered to consumers more and more in the form of blockbuster films, 3-D televisions with network programming to boot, and even in some computer games.
Since 3-D technology is all the rage, the MommyTech Conference will be discussing the pros and cons during the Consumer Electronics Show. “3-D Moms” will be one of the agenda topics during the conference on Saturday, January 8, 2011 beginning at 10:15 a.m. in room N260 of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Dr. Dominick Maino is an American Optometric Association 3-D expert and a professor of pediatrics/binocular vision at the Illinois College of Optometry’s Illinois Eye Institute. Dr. Maino will be participating in a panel discussion to talk about 3-D vision syndrome and why some Americans are unable to see in 3-D, as well as what steps can be taken to fix the problem.
“According to the American Optometric Association, anywhere from three to nine million people have problems with binocular vision prohibiting them from watching 3-D TV and movies,” said Dr. Maino. “Children are at higher risk for having undetected binocular vision problems because most only receive a simple vision screening that doesn’t check for problems that interfere with 3-D viewing. Instead, children should visit their local optometrist to receive a comprehensive eye exam.”
Binocular vision is the ability to align both eyes accurately on an object and combine the visual images from each eye into a single, in-depth perception. A problem comes from fatigue that occurs when 3-D technology forces the eyes to make adjustments to focus simultaneously on images that are near and far away.
Symptoms indicating a potential problem viewing images in 3-D can vary, but some common symptoms include headaches, blurred vision, nausea and dizziness.
“The good news for those who experience discomfort associated with 3-D viewing is there’s treatment to help fix the problem,” said Dr. Maino. “As the industry expands its 3-D technology offerings, it’s important that adults and children have their vision checked to ensure they are able to enjoy it as much as possible; and if they have difficulties, they should see their doctor of optometry.”
Studies have shown that optometric vision therapy can help alleviate common problems associated with 3-D viewing and make the experience of using the technology more enjoyable. Optometric vision therapy is a sequence of therapeutic procedures individually prescribed and monitored by an optometrist to develop efficient visual skills and processing. Following a comprehensive eye examination, the optometrist may prescribe vision therapy if the results of the exam indicate a need, and if it is determined an appropriate treatment option for the patient. A vision therapy program is based on the results of standardized tests, the needs of the patient, and the patient's signs and symptoms. Optometric vision therapy re-educates the brain to achieve single, clear, comfortable, two-eyed vision that improves eye coordination, focusing and eye movement, ultimately enhancing the 3-D viewing experience.
The AOA recommends seeing a doctor of optometry for further evaluation if consumers answer yes to any of the following questions:
• Is the 3-D viewing experience not as vivid as it is for others watching the same picture?
• Do you experience eyestrain or headaches during or after viewing?
• Do you feel nauseous or dizzy during or after viewing?
• Are you more comfortable viewing 2-D TV or movies instead of 3-D TV/movies?
• Is it difficult for your eyes to adjust back to normal after watching 3-D TV/movies?
The AOA also recommends visiting a doctor of optometry on an annual basis for comprehensive eye exams to help ensure healthy vision overall.
To find an optometrist in your area, or for additional information please visit the AOA’s Web site at http://www.aoa.org/ or the College of Optometry in Vision Development Web site at http://www.covd.org/.
About the American Optometric Association (AOA):
The American Optometric Association represents approximately 36,000 doctors of optometry, optometry students and paraoptometric assistants and technicians. Optometrists serve patients in nearly 6,500 communities across the country, and in 3,500 of those communities are the only eye doctors. Doctors of optometry provide two-thirds of all primary eye care in the United States.
American Optometric Association doctors of optometry are highly qualified, trained doctors on the frontline of eye and vision care who examine, diagnose, treat and manage diseases and disorders of the eye. In addition to providing eye and vision care, optometrists play a major role in a patient’s overall health and well-being by detecting systemic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
Prior to optometry school, optometrists typically complete four years of undergraduate study, culminating in a bachelor’s degree. Required undergraduate coursework for pre-optometry students is extensive and covers a wide variety of advanced health, science and mathematics. Optometry school consists of four years of post-graduate, doctoral study concentrating on both the eye and systemic health. In addition to their formal training, doctors of optometry must undergo annual continuing education to stay current on the latest standards of care. For more information, visit http://www.aoa.org/.
About the College of Optometrists in Vision Development
The College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD) is a non-profit, international membership association of eye care professionals including optometrists, optometry students, and vision therapists. Established in 1971, COVD provides board certification for eye doctors and vision therapists who are prepared to offer state-of-the-art services in:
Behavioral and developmental vision care
Optometric Vision therapy
Visual rehabilitation
These specialized vision care services develop and enhance visual abilities and correct many vision problems in infants, children, and adults.
The COVD International Examination and Certification Board process includes a rigorous evaluation of the eye care professional's knowledge and abilities in providing developmental and behavioral vision care for patients. Optometrists who successfully complete their certification process are Board Certified in Vision Development and Vision Therapy and are designated Fellows of COVD (FCOVD). Vision therapists are certified to work with COVD Fellows as Certified Optometric Vision Therapists (COVT).
Associate members of COVD are practicing optometrists who have not yet completed the Fellowship process. COVD associates are required to participate in professional continuing education to enhance their knowledge and skills in behavioral vision care.
Vision care provided by all COVD members is based on the principle that vision can be developed and changed. For example, we know that infants are not born with fully developed visual abilities and that good vision is developed through a learned process.
For more information go to http://www.covd.org/
About Dr. Dominick M. Maino
Dr. Dominick Maino is a Professor of Pediatrics/Binocular Vision at the Illinois Eye Institute/Illinois College of Optometry and is in private practice. He graduated from the Illinois College of Optometry, received his MEd at the University of Illinois Chicago and Bachelor’s degree from Beloit College. Dr. Maino is the past Director of the Institute for Advanced Competency Post-Graduate Continuing Education Program, an Adjunct Professor of Pediatrics/Binocular Vision at the Centro Boston de Optometria in Madrid Spain, and the Director of the Developmental Disabilities Service at the Neumann Association. He is a Fellow of both the American Academy of Optometry and the College of Optometrists in Vision Development, and holds membership in the American & Illinois Optometric Associations, Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association, and the Artists of Casa Italia.
Dr. Maino serves as the editor of Optometry and Vision Development, has authored approximately 200 books, chapters, and articles. Has given more than 100 presentations worldwide and is a co-author of the ASCOTech column for Optometric Education (Journal of the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry) and is currently the associate, consulting, and/or contributing editor/manuscript reviewer for numerous publications.
Dr. Maino has received recognition for his work from the Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association, College of Optometrists in Vision Development, Optometric Editors Association, and the Easter Seal Society of Metropolitan Chicago. He is an internationally recognized expert on oculo-visual problems of children and adults with disabilities. His research interests include special populations, pediatrics, and binocular vision dysfunction. Dr. Maino’s avocations include website design, blogging, music and photography.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
More Info on 3D Vision Syndrome and Nintendo 3DS
Nintendo's 3DS Warning: Children, Avert Thine Eyes
Richard Adhikari TechNewsWorld December 29, 2010
http://www.technewsworld.com/story/71549.html?wlc=1293682187
Nintendo Bars Children Under 6 From Viewing 3-D Images on New Game Player
Mariko Yasu and Yoshinori Eki
Bloomberg December 29, 2010
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-12-30/nintendo-bars-children-under-6-from-viewing-3-d-images-on-new-game-player.html
Nintendo warns: No 3-D gaming for young players
MSNBC.com December 29, 2010
http://ingame.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2010/12/29/5733901-nintendo-warns-no-3-d-gaming-for-young-players
Nintendo 3DS could be hazardous to children under 6
Nathan Olivarez-Giles
Los Angeles Times December 29, 2010
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/technology/2010/12/nintendo-3ds-children.html
Nintendo: 3D Games May Damage Kids' Eyes
Catharine Smith
The Huffington Post December 29, 2010
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/12/29/nintendo-3d-eye-damage_n_802426.html
Nintendo Warns Children Should Skip 3DS
Esther Shein
InformationWeek December 29, 2010
http://www.informationweek.com/news/security/client/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=228900185&cid=RSSfeed_IWK_News
Nintendo Encouraging Young Children To Use 3DS's 2D Mode
Brian Warmoth
MTV News December 28, 2010
http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2010/12/28/nintendo-encouraging-young-children-to-use-3dss-2d-mode/
What to watch for in technology in 2011
Hiawatha Bray
Boston Globe December 29, 2010
http://www.boston.com/business/technology/articles/2010/12/29/things_to_watch_in_technology_for_2011/
Nintendo 3DS is hazardous to the eyes of children
Jeffrey Van Camp
Digital Trends December 29, 2010
http://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/nintendo-3ds-is-hazardous-to-kids-eyes/?news=123
3-D Gaming Not For Kids
Javier de la Vega
Nintendo Gal Blog December 29, 2010
http://www.nintendogal.com/2010/12/29/3-d-gaming-not-for-kids/4878/
Nintendo 3DS To Carry Age and Time Restrictions
Gadgets and Gizmos Blog December 29, 2010
http://www.gadgetsandgizmos.org/nintendo-3ds-to-carry-age-and-time-restrictions/
Remember that the symptoms of 3D Vision Syndrome often include headaches, blurred vision, eyestrain, double vision, dizziness/nausea and motion sickness after watching a 3D movie, television or playing a 3D video game. If you or any family members have trouble viewing 3D, please go to the American Optometric Association or College of Optometrist in Vision Development websites to find doctors who can help diagnose and treat these problems so you can enjoy the 3D experience. DM
Richard Adhikari TechNewsWorld December 29, 2010
http://www.technewsworld.com/story/71549.html?wlc=1293682187
Nintendo Bars Children Under 6 From Viewing 3-D Images on New Game Player
Mariko Yasu and Yoshinori Eki
Bloomberg December 29, 2010
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-12-30/nintendo-bars-children-under-6-from-viewing-3-d-images-on-new-game-player.html
Nintendo warns: No 3-D gaming for young players
MSNBC.com December 29, 2010
http://ingame.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2010/12/29/5733901-nintendo-warns-no-3-d-gaming-for-young-players
Nintendo 3DS could be hazardous to children under 6
Nathan Olivarez-Giles
Los Angeles Times December 29, 2010
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/technology/2010/12/nintendo-3ds-children.html
Nintendo: 3D Games May Damage Kids' Eyes
Catharine Smith
The Huffington Post December 29, 2010
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/12/29/nintendo-3d-eye-damage_n_802426.html
Nintendo Warns Children Should Skip 3DS
Esther Shein
InformationWeek December 29, 2010
http://www.informationweek.com/news/security/client/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=228900185&cid=RSSfeed_IWK_News
Nintendo Encouraging Young Children To Use 3DS's 2D Mode
Brian Warmoth
MTV News December 28, 2010
http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2010/12/28/nintendo-encouraging-young-children-to-use-3dss-2d-mode/
What to watch for in technology in 2011
Hiawatha Bray
Boston Globe December 29, 2010
http://www.boston.com/business/technology/articles/2010/12/29/things_to_watch_in_technology_for_2011/
Nintendo 3DS is hazardous to the eyes of children
Jeffrey Van Camp
Digital Trends December 29, 2010
http://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/nintendo-3ds-is-hazardous-to-kids-eyes/?news=123
3-D Gaming Not For Kids
Javier de la Vega
Nintendo Gal Blog December 29, 2010
http://www.nintendogal.com/2010/12/29/3-d-gaming-not-for-kids/4878/
Nintendo 3DS To Carry Age and Time Restrictions
Gadgets and Gizmos Blog December 29, 2010
http://www.gadgetsandgizmos.org/nintendo-3ds-to-carry-age-and-time-restrictions/
Remember that the symptoms of 3D Vision Syndrome often include headaches, blurred vision, eyestrain, double vision, dizziness/nausea and motion sickness after watching a 3D movie, television or playing a 3D video game. If you or any family members have trouble viewing 3D, please go to the American Optometric Association or College of Optometrist in Vision Development websites to find doctors who can help diagnose and treat these problems so you can enjoy the 3D experience. DM
Monday, January 3, 2011
The Latest from the AOA journal, Optometry
Editor's Perspective
It’s that time of year…resolutions
Paul B. Freeman
Health Notes Hope for keratoconus
Byron Y. Newman
Medical Abstracts
Clinical implications of contact lens surface deposits
Mile Brujic
A Paraoptometric View
A new option for paraoptometrics
Jill Luebbert
Guidelines for Authors
Iatrogenically induced Stevens-Johnson syndrome after a car accident
Julie K. Hutchinson, Andrew S. Gurwood
Clinical findings and management of conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia
Kathryn D. Nelson, John J. McSoley
Mantle cell lymphoma of the maxillary sinus invading the orbit
Alissa D. Nagel-Esposito, Brian Kawasaki, Russell Jew, Lane Fujimoto
Public Health
Malpractice payments by optometrists: An analysis of the national practitioner databank over 18 years
Robert S. Duszak, Richard Duszak
Literature Review
A review of hyaluronan and its ophthalmic applications
Marjorie J. Rah
Practice Strategies
Practitioner attitudes on children and contact lenses
Christine W. Sindt, Colleen M. Riley
Electronic health records definitions and acronyms
American Optometric Association
To sign or not to sign: recognizing insurance contracts as business decisions
Charles B. Brownlow
Should you take the plunge into social media?
Nathan Bonilla-Warford
Medicare coding
American Optometric Association
Building a successful practice is a team sport
Gary Gerber
The Economic Value Added (EVA) Resulting from Medical Care of Functional Amblyopia, Strabismus, (Pathologies of Binocular Vision) and Asthma.
...The economic value added by improvements in patient-centered outcomes is very large. Failing to make the necessary investments in research, prevention, detection, prompt treatment and rehabilitation of these diseases, at virtually any conceivable cost, appears economically, medically, morally and ethically deficient and consequently wasteful at very least economically for our society....Comments: This study suggests that billions of dollars could be saved if we improve our investments in research, prevention, detection, prompt treatment and rehabilitation. This means that what we are doing now is NOT working. This means that our ophthalmology colleagues are wrong when they say vision screening is enough...it is not. The research on vision screening has shown time and again that there is so little quality evidence available that it cannot be determined if vision screenings are effective or not! ( See: Evidence-based medicine: the value of vision screening , Teen Eye Chart Screening Misses Some Problems)
Full comprehensive eye examinations at an early age are neccessary for these savings to be realized. The American Optometric Association's public health program, InfantSee, is dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide variety of eye problems early....and at no charge. Go to http://www.infantsee.org/ today! You can also find eye doctors who can help at COVD. DM
A comparison of children with ADHD in a natural and built setting
...results suggest that natural areas provide a consistent positive environment for children with ADHD.
....
....
Contact lenses vs spectacles in myopes: is there any difference in accommodative and binocular function?
...The results found in this study show a definite trend towards poorer accommodative and vergence function with the use of contact lenses in comparison to glasses.....
Comments. The PDF of this article is available by clicking on the title above. DM
Comments. The PDF of this article is available by clicking on the title above. DM
Sunday, January 2, 2011
UK National Health Service Review 2010 Annual Evidence Update on Amblyopia
The 2010 Evidence Update focuses on the clinical and functional outcomes of amblyopia and highlights the:
- clinical outcomes of treatment - focusing on aspects of visual acuity, stereopsis, and ocular alignment;
- functional outcomes of treatment - focusing on aspects of quality of life and visual functioning;
- adverse events of treatment;
- current uncertainties in the effectiveness of treatments.
The accuracy of photoscreening at detecting treatable ocular conditions in children with Down syndrome.
...Photoscreening is sensitive but less specific at detecting treatable ocular conditions in children with DS. In specific instances, the use of photoscreening in the DS population has the potential to save time and expense related to routine eye examinations, particularly in children with a normal baseline comprehensive examination....
Comments: Once again they suggest that screening will save time and expense...this is not logical. We know that these children have many eye problems....so why not provide comprehensive eye care for all? Why go thru the extra time and expense to do a screening....especially one not very specific at detecting the problems? DM
Comments: Once again they suggest that screening will save time and expense...this is not logical. We know that these children have many eye problems....so why not provide comprehensive eye care for all? Why go thru the extra time and expense to do a screening....especially one not very specific at detecting the problems? DM
Refractive error and visual functions in children with special needs compared with the first grade school students in oman.
...Prevalence of uncorrected refractive error was much higher in children with special needs. Prevalence of strabismus, nystagmus, and reduced contrast sensitivity was also higher in children with special needs. Early vision screening, visual function assessment, correction of refractive error, and frequent follow-up are recommended....
Comment: Why are they recommending vision screening when time and again it has been shown that vision screenings are so poor researcher cannot even decide if there is enough good evidence to make a judgment about screening? This population deserves full comprehensive eye examinations. No screening. Full exams. This goes for all children no matter if they have a disability or not! DM
Comment: Why are they recommending vision screening when time and again it has been shown that vision screenings are so poor researcher cannot even decide if there is enough good evidence to make a judgment about screening? This population deserves full comprehensive eye examinations. No screening. Full exams. This goes for all children no matter if they have a disability or not! DM
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Additional stories about the Nintendo 3D Warning
Nintendo warns children about 3-D games: Read the Story & Watch the Video. "Dr. George T. Frangieh of EyeCare Specialists in Norwood and Jamaica Plain say Nintendo's warning is medically unfounded. "The 3-D games, there's no medical evidence that this will affect the development of the binocular system in kids ... At this stage there is no evidence that this will affect their development" for the better or worse."
3D Video Games Could Be Harmful To Your Child
...and more!
Comments: Instead of scaring parents, Nintendo (and all makers of 3D technology and content) should use this technology as a public health vision screening tool.
By telling parents to watch their children and by asking the child the right questions while playing 3D games...parents may uncover binocular vision problems they did not know existed..and then these companies would become "heroes" to the parents...instead of "monsters" who make products that can hurt their child!
Calling all marketing people....do not scare your potential customers away! Join with organizations such as the American Optometric Association and the College of Optometrists in Vision Development and find those consumers who have problems appreciating your products. Then once the problem is diagnosed and treated....these consumers will then be able to enjoy this new technology and the 3D company will be recognized as an organization that really cares about their customers! DM
The Nintendo 3DS Will Destroy Children's Eyeballs (No, Really)
Gizmodo put out the info that Nintendo "has issued a warning that kids under six shouldn't use the 3DS's 3D mode because their vision is still "in the development stage," and the way that stereoscopic 3D works, delivering different images to each eyeball, "has a potential impact on the growth of children's eyes." Sony's also noted that kids under six shouldn't play 3D games without being examined by their eye doctor first...."
Comment: If you understand Japanese, you can read the actual warning by clicking here: http://www.nintendo.co.jp/n10/3DSevents/info.html. Otherwise click on the title above and go to the GIZMODO page.
I like the fact that Sony says to have kids eyes examined...this is good...Nintendo's warning...if you can believe the "machine translation".... is completely ridiculous. A 6 year old's visual system....if it is operating as it should....will have no problems with any 3D content nor should this affect the child's vision development as far as we know...it is important to recognized that up to 6% of the population (18+ million) people either have amblyopia (lazy eye) and/or strabismus. If that 6 y/o has these problems or other binocular vision dysfunctions such as convergence insufficiency...yes, then there will be problems...even 3D Vision Syndrome may be present. For more information go to the AOA and COVD websites and type in 3D, convergence insufficiency, vision therapy, etc. in the search boxes. (You can do the same in the search box of this blog). DM
Comment: If you understand Japanese, you can read the actual warning by clicking here: http://www.nintendo.co.jp/n10/3DSevents/info.html. Otherwise click on the title above and go to the GIZMODO page.
I like the fact that Sony says to have kids eyes examined...this is good...Nintendo's warning...if you can believe the "machine translation".... is completely ridiculous. A 6 year old's visual system....if it is operating as it should....will have no problems with any 3D content nor should this affect the child's vision development as far as we know...it is important to recognized that up to 6% of the population (18+ million) people either have amblyopia (lazy eye) and/or strabismus. If that 6 y/o has these problems or other binocular vision dysfunctions such as convergence insufficiency...yes, then there will be problems...even 3D Vision Syndrome may be present. For more information go to the AOA and COVD websites and type in 3D, convergence insufficiency, vision therapy, etc. in the search boxes. (You can do the same in the search box of this blog). DM
$5.6M loan OK'd for school of optometry
...The Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority (VCEDA) recently approved a $5.6 million loan for the development of a college of optometry in Buchanan County.....
Comments: We do not need yet another college of optometry. What could they be thinking? DM
Higher education: New college will create 66 jobshttp://bdtonline.com/editorials/x480664028/Higher-education-New-college-will-create-66-jobs
A county that has already successfully launched the Appalachian School of Law and the Appalachian College of Pharmacy is preparing to grow again with the proposed Appalachian College of Optometry....
Comments: We do not need yet another college of optometry. What could they be thinking? DM
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)