Lawrence

Researchers are evaluating the safety and effectiveness of a new smaller incision implantable miniature telescope (SING-IMT) in patients aged 65 and older with moderate to severe central vision loss due to late-stage age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This study focuses on individuals who have bilateral central scotomas caused by end-stage AMD and aims to improve their visual function through this innovative implant. Participants will undergo outpatient surgery to implant the SING-IMT device during routine cataract surgery. The implant consists of two micro lenses within a flexible silicone carrier designed to be placed inside the eye. After implantation, patients will attend five follow-up visits over approximately 12 months and may participate in up to twelve rehabilitation or training sessions with a low vision specialist to help adjust to and maximize the use of the device. Throughout the study, patients will be assessed for visual acuity with and without the implant, as well as their ability to benefit from the device using an external telescope simulator. Researchers will monitor safety and effectiveness outcomes about 12 months after surgery. Visual training, clinical exams, and imaging will support evaluating the implant's impact, with continuous safety monitoring during the follow-up period.

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of "PrEP for Health," a behavioral program designed to improve the use of antiretroviral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among people who inject drugs (PWID) at risk for HIV in two syringe service programs in Massachusetts. This randomized controlled trial involves 200 participants divided equally between Lawrence and Boston/Cambridge. The goal is to see if the intervention increases PrEP uptake and adherence compared to standard care, considering factors like HIV knowledge and motivation. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups: the "PrEP for Health" intervention or standard care. The intervention includes education about HIV and PrEP based on Social Cognitive Theory, motivational interviewing, problem-solving and planning assistance, and ongoing patient navigation support for three months. The control group receives basic PrEP information and referrals. All activities take place within the syringe service programs, with follow-up visits over twelve months. During the study, participants complete assessments at baseline and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after randomization. Those who start PrEP provide hair samples at 3, 6, and 12 months to measure adherence. A rapid HIV test is done at 12 months for all participants. Researchers will measure outcomes such as PrEP uptake, adherence, and long-term adherence, as well as the influence of participant characteristics on results.