bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opposing hypotheses of the reflection of light applied to the Michelson interferometer
Authors: Filipescu Filip Dambi
Published: September 2021

The derivation of light paths in the Michelson interferometer is based on the hypothesis that the incident speed and reflected speed of the wavefront of a ray of light are equal in the frame at absolute rest. In this case, the Michelson‐Morley experiment predicts a fringe shift
of 0.40. With the hypothesis that the incident speed and reflected speed of the wavefront of a ray of light are equal in the inertial frame of a mirror at the instance of collision, the Michelson‐Morley experiment predicts a fringe shift of 0.40 × 10−4,
which is in agreement with the experimental result.
Use of capital budgeting practices: an integrative review
Authors: Michelon Paula de Souza , Lunkes Rogério João , Bornia Antonio Cezar
Published: September 2021

This article aimed to highlight the relationships between these characteristics and the use ofcapital budgeting practices. For the selection of articles published on “capital budgeting” it wasused the Proknow-C tool. It was found that the theory-practice gap is both related with the organizationaland managerial characteristics from the practical point of view, but requires a reviewby academicians. Organizations should seek professionals with experience in capital projectsappraisal and who are familiar with and knowledgeable in the use of adequate practices for decision-making. This research contributes by indicating the research gaps that need to be explored by researchers and by trying to identify the difficulties found by managers that interfere in the capital budgeting results.
A Classification Review on Green Concrete
Authors: Tzortzi Julia Nerantzia , Hasbini Rola
Published: September 2021

This paper is a short review of green concrete as claimed per latest related available literature. Green concrete refers to concrete mixture with lower carbon footprint, during its total life cycle, as compared to ordinary concrete mixture. This may be due to its composition of one or more green component (s) such as silica fume or fly ash, or to its capacity, as a building material, to reduce one or more pollutant (s) and/or to any other sustainable concrete procedure such as reduced raw materials depletion. A leading Italian concrete production group claims the provision of a new air scrubbing green concrete combining all of the above techniques. The claimed air scrubbing is based on a photocatalytic principle whereby natural or artificial light activates an oxidation process converting noxious pollutants into harmless compounds. Green concrete promotes sustainability in a creative way; thus, improving global human health.
Machine Learning for Modeling the Bearing Capacity of Prestressed Concrete Elements Damaged by Corrosion
Authors: Zalapa-Damian Arturo , Alonso-Guzmán Elia Mercedes , Ponce-Ortega José María , Martínez-Molina Wilfrido , Bernabé-Reyes Cipriano , Chavez-Garcia Hugo Luis
Published: September 2021

This work aims to study the prediction of bearing capacity of prestressed concrete beams subjected to accelerated corrosion process using Machine Learning (ML) techniques. After data collection, the results were used to model the behavior of flexural stress, and predict their final load capacity, considering position, length, and width of the cracks generated by corrosion as well as loss of bearing capacity. The study presents an analysis of 363 days old beams damaged by corrosion, connected to a galvanostat for 62, and 121 days to make faster the process. Six beams were analyzed; five of them were used to train the model, the other works as a basis to compare the results thrown by the model with the real data. After the treat, the results showed that Bagged Trees Model fits better to real data, it was seen that removing atypical data improves the correlation of predicted and real data. The actual data were compared with two different prediction analyzes; for the first one, the atypical data were not removed; in the second one, the atypical data were eliminated with a statistical analysis. Obtaining relative error percentages of 15.18%, 14.59%, presenting two predictions: final load of 1444 kg and 1126 kg. Which means a resistant moment of 650 T-m, and 506.7 T-m respectively, taking as a prediction the second value in the safe side.
Research on the Development of the Welding Reconditioning Procedure for Friction Liner on the Passenger Coaches
Authors: Popisteanu Carmen , Cicic Dumitru Titi , Solomon Gheorhe
Published: September 2021

SNTFC CFR SA owns a fleet of 841 passenger coaches, which it maintains through usual overhauls and repairs at high safety levels provided by the national railway regulations and instructions. One of the most important systems of a wagon is the braking system. One part of this system is also the friction liner, its role being to support the friction gasket that applies the braking force on the brake disc. This friction liner is made of cast iron and is a component included in risk class 1A, according to OMT 290/2000, with a service life of 10 years. Depending on the degree of wear and safety in operation, one may decide to replace it with a new part or intervention to return to the initial dimensional shape. Considering the importance of this friction liner, a very precise analysis must be performed, and this should show the steps necessary to reintroduce the part into operation. The performed analysis is a welding reconditioning procedure, which must be applied with precision. The paper indicates all the stages and results we looked for by applying a reconditioning procedure for the particular situation of using the welding process by means of tables / graphs and of results obtained as of detailed works.
Gender differences in COVID-19 patients: a regional survey among physicians of Internal Medicine Wards
Authors: Ciarambino Tiziana , Ilardi Alfonso , Giannico Orazio Valerio , Maffettone Ada , Ciaburri Filippina , Delli Paoli Venere , Fontanella Andrea , Tirelli Paolo , Bologna Carolina , Gallucci Fernando , Visconti Mario , Caruso Domenico , Amitrano Maria , Giordano Mauro , D'Avino Maria
Published: September 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has infected millions of individuals around the World. Hypertension (HT), chronic heart disease (CHD), and diabetes mellitus (DM), particularly in the elderly, increase susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, conflicting results [such as coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) disease vulnerability, case fatality, etc.] have been reported about the response to infection and COVID-19 outcomes in men and women. Therefore, understanding predictors of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission might help future planning and management of the disease. We conducted a multicenter survey about COVID-19 involving internists from Internal Medicine Wards. This survey indirectly allowed us to analyze the information of 2400 patients hospitalized in 35 wards of Internal Medicine of the Campania Region between July and October 2020. Our investigation has detected that the infection is more frequent in males, and the number of male patients hospitalized in ICU is also higher than females, with a large proportion of hypertensive patients. Extensive prospective studies are required to confirm this finding and explore the mechanisms for which hypertensive males are exposed to a higher proportion of admission to ICU and higher case fatality rates.
Evaluating the Effect of Peer-Assisted Education on the Functioning in Family Caregivers of Patients with Schizophrenia: A Clinical Trial Study
Authors: Rajai Nahid , Lami Behnaz , Pishgooie Amir Hosein , Habibi Hengameh , Alavizerang Fatemeh
Published: September 2021

Background: High levels burden of long-term care of patients with schizophrenia can disrupt the functioning of family caregivers. This study evaluated a peer-assisted education method on family caregivers’ functioning of patients with schizophrenia. Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 64 family caregivers of schizophrenia patients in military hospitals of Tehran, Iran, were selected and randomly allocated to intervention and control groups, in 2018–2019. The peer-assisted education was performed in the experimental group for six 1-hour sessions and the family functioning was measured in both groups by the Family Assessment Device Scale. The data were analyzed by SPSS software ver. 16.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) and group differences at a level of P-value <0.05 were considered as significant. Results: There was no significant differences between groups in the pre-intervention phase in all dimensions of family functioning (P>0.05). There were significant differences between intervention and control groups, in the post-intervention phase in mean problem-solving dimension (11.80 vs. 15.53, P=0.012) and in 2 weeks after intervention, in the dimensions of roles (21.71 vs. 23.43, P=0.015), affective involvement (19.03 vs. 21.59, P=0.017), behavior control (23.90 vs. 26.93, P=0.045), general functioning (27.15 vs. 31.40, P=0.013), and total family functioning (134.12 vs. 153.09, P=0.001). Conclusion: The peer-assisted education significantly influenced the functioning of family caregivers of schizophrenic patients and can be recommended to improve the functioning of caregivers.
Association between Near Work Time and Depression among Workers in South Korea
Authors: Jeong Na Rae , Lee Seung Hun , Kim Yun Jin , Lee Jeong Gyu , Yi Yu Hyeon , Tak Yougn Jin , Hwang Hye Rim , Kim Gyu Lee , Lee Sang Yeoub , Cho Young Hye , Park Eun Ju , Lee Young In , Choi Jung In
Published: September 2021

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between near work time and depression. Methods: Data of 1,551 workers aged 19–49 years from the sixth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were examined. The Patient Health Questionaire-9 scores were used to screen for depression. Participants who scored a total of 10 or above, which is suggestive of the presence of depression, were classified as the depression group; the rest were classified as normal. The correlation between daily near work time and depression was analyzed using multivariate logistic analysis after adjusting for other sociodemographic and health behavior-related variables. Results: Multivariate logistic analysis found that workers with 3 or more hours of near work were more likely to report depression compared to the reference group who had 2 or fewer hours per day of near work (adjusted odds ratio, 2.471; 95% confidence interval, 1.062–5.747). Conclusion: Longer near work time was associated with depression among South Korea’s workers. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce near work time to prevent depression.
The impact of COVID-19 on an employee assistance programme in a multinational insurance organisation: Considerations for the future
Authors: Veldsman Dieter , Van Aarde Ninette
Published: September 2021

Orientation: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has led to an increased focus on the effectiveness of employee assistance programmes (EAPs).Research purpose: To evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on the value, utilisation and scope of an EAP within the South African insurance sector.Motivation for the study: Higher levels of stress and anxiety experienced by employees because of COVID-19 has necessitated the need to better understand the reasons for EAPs utilisation and its effectiveness within organisations.Research approach/design and method: The study provided an overview of employee well-being and an overview of the origins and evolution of EAPs. The study utilised thematic analysis to analyse 1002 cases with a sample of n = 907, pre-and post-onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.Main findings: The utilisation of EAPs increased because of COVID-19, yet the reasons for accessing these programmes remained largely consistent before and during COVID-19. At a sub-theme level, the priority of themes differed across the time periods influenced by external context and circumstance.Practical/managerial implications: The study found a need to clearly define employee well-being and reposition the role of EAPs within the organisation. Organisations need to broaden the scope of EAPs and through continuous education and awareness create an environment where employees feel like they can safely access these services.Contribution/value-add: The study contributes towards the current literature on employee well-being and providing a perspective on the relevance, value and utilisation of EAPs before and during a pandemic.
Assessment of the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma injections in the management of severe dry eye
Authors: Elessawy Kareem B. , Araissi Ahmad B. , Nasr Haytham E. , Abdelbaky Sameh H.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection into the lacrimal gland in severe dry eye and to compare it with preservative-free artificial tears.

Patients and methods

This study included a total of 74 eyes of 40 patients divided into two groups. The intervention group received three PRP injections transcutaneously in the region of the lacrimal gland. The control group was treated with preservative-free artificial tears.

Results

The intervention group showed improvement in all measured parameters, except the Meibomian gland score, with a statistically significant improvement in the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) score (P<0.001) and the Schirmer test (P=0.011) and less significant improvement in the ocular surface staining score (P=0.076) and tear breakup time (TBUT) (P=0.09). Compared with the control group, the PRP intervention group showed a statistically significant improvement in the OSDI score (P<0.001), the Schirmer test (P=0.005) and the ocular surface staining score (P=0.013) and less significant improvement in TBUT (P=0.2).

Conclusion

The use of PRP injections is safe and effective, with improvement in the OSDI, Schirmer test, and ocular surface staining and less improvement in TBUT, but it is not effective in improving Meibomian gland function.
Determinants of intensive care unit admission of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia: An analytic retrospective cohort
Authors: Alqutub Sulafa , Albalawi Wedad , Alrajhi Nermeen
Published: September 2021

Background: In March 2020, Saudi Arabia (KSA) experienced a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. The mitigation strategy aimed to reduce both the impact on vulnerable groups and the risk of admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). Risk factors, such as sequential organ failure, comorbidities, ventilation, and mortality, have not been described in different settings of care. Materials and Methods: A multicenter, retrospective chart review of 220 adults with COVID-19 admitted to the ICU included demographics and ICU admission factors (e.g., quick sequential organ failure assessment (qSOFA) score, ventilator status, comorbidities, days from laboratory confirmation to ICU admission, and days from hospitalization to ICU admission). Regression was utilized to identify predictors of need for mechanical ventilation (MV) and mortality in ICU patients. Results: ICU admission, COVID-19 hospital mortality, and ventilator-associated mortality rates were 26.5%, 44%, and 30.5%, respectively. The mean patients' age was 30 years. Across four cities, Jeddah patients were at the highest risk of MV (<0.001). Within the 1st day of hospitalization, without lymphocytopenia, non-Saudi patients with a qSOFA score of 2 and 3 were at the highest risk of ventilation (odds ratio [OR], 3.9; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.72–8.66; OR, 11.4; 95% CI, 2.35–55.47; and OR, 6.1; 95% CI, 1.0–37.33, respectively). Moreover, within the same period of hospital stay, mechanically-ventilated patients with a qSOFA score of 3 who received antiviral medications were significantly at the higher risk of death (OR, 2.8.4; 95% CI, 1.44–5.64; OR, 13.1; 95% CI, 1.23–39.68; and OR, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.14–4.14, respectively). Conclusions: The 1st day of hospitalization, along with an assessment of the dyspnea status using the qSOFA score, is the window of opportunity for minimizing ICU admission risk. Neither lymphocytopenia nor comorbidities are associated with the risk of mechanical ventilation. Factors were also discussed. Reviews are needed on the indications for the use of antiviral agents, intubation, and ventilation in hospitalized patients.
Efficacy of darolac probiotic and chlorhexidine mouth rinse in reducing plaque and gingival inflammation in children
Authors: Bande Yogesh , Ade Sharda , Baroopal Sudhir , Joshi Akshada , Pathak Janhabi , Deshmukh Abhinay V , Arya Sugandha
Published: September 2021

Background:

Chemical agents have been increasingly used as an adjunct to mechanical control. The use of a mouthwash augments maintenance of oral health through its antiplaque and antibacterial chemical properties. Recently, Probiotics can be used an effective alternative for other traditional mouthrinses in reducing plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation.

Aim:

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of a probiotic and chlorhexidine mouth rinses on plaque and gingival accumulation in children.

Materials and Methods:

Randomized controlled 14 day trial including 30 healthy children (6–8 years) was done in which 10 children were in control group and 20 children were instructed to rinse 5ml/day for 1 min of each solution (probiotics and chlorhexidine) for 14 days.

Results:

A Statistically significanct difference was noted between mean PI and mean GI score of control group when compared with probiotic and chlorhexidine after 14 days in comparison to baseline (P < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in mean plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation between the probiotics and chlorhexidine on the 14th day examination.

Conclusion:

Probiotics mouth rinse was effective in reducing plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation in 6 to 8 year old children.
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on learning of the undergraduate and postgraduate dental students
Authors: Manohar Swati P , Sneharaj N. , Shakir Arshiya , Talukdar Manjaree , Pavana M. P.
Published: September 2021

Background:

More than 95% of all countries worldwide reported infections with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 described as coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). Therefore, most countries put physical distancing measures (e.g., closing of public, cultural, and educational institutions) in place to decelerate the infection rate. Consequently, dental education at universities worldwide is strongly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The present study was done to know the effect of COVID-19 pandemic on dental education.

Materials and Methods:

A self-designed, structured, online questionnaire of 22 close-ended questions was generated and distributed among the undergraduates and postgraduate dental students in Bangalore city. A total of 450 forms were sent through online by messages, WhatsApp, and emails. Online consent was obtained before participation in the study and it was mandatory to answer all questions. Data obtained were subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics, and significant proportions were available. The level of significance was considered as P ≤≤≤ 5.

Results:

The study showed that in this pandemic, 73.4% of the students feel e-learning as a boon for learning dental students, but 87.1% of students feel classroom lectures are more interactive compared to online lectures. About 12.4% of the students felt difficult to access the Internet for online classes, whereas 87.6% of students had access. Students feel understanding clinical procedures is difficult through e-learning; hence, 83.6% of students search web for better understanding. Almost 92.5% of the students feel they are lacking clinical experience due to online classes.

Conclusion:

COVID-19 has definitely affected the world; similarly, it has affected the clinical practice of dental students in dental schools. As education continues through e-learning, still, few students are deprived of education due to access to the Internet.
Prisms in ophthalmology
Authors: Kapoor Smita
Published: September 2021

Prisms are used commonly in ophthalmic practice. In strabismus, they have a diagnostic and therapeutic role. Various types of prisms used in ophthalmology have been explained in the article. Positions and placement of a prism lens have also been dealt with. The clinical applications have been explained in detail.
A study of high-volume, high-quality, and low-cost cataract surgeries in a rural setup in an emerging and developing country
Authors: Singh Shipra , Mehrotra Neelima
Published: September 2021

Aim:

Evaluation of visual outcome following high volume, high quality and low cost cataract surgeries in a rural setup in North India.

Methods:

A retrospective study was done on all patients who underwent MSICS from March 2018 to March 2020 in a tertiary care hospital. Postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was assessed at day 1, between 1 and 3 weeks, and after 1–2 months of surgery.

Results:

A total of 6514 patients were included, out of which 1952 patients had ocular comorbidities; BCVA for each patient was categorized according to the World Health Organization criteria of visual impairment. It was seen that a statistically significant number of patients had good visual outcome following surgery at 1–2 months (3017 patients) 57.6%. Among the complications following surgery, posterior capsular rent was the most common and statistically significant.

Conclusion:

Good visual outcome in high volume of patients can be achieved with compliance to treatment and follow-up and proper management of complications.
Eyelid trichoblastoma – A case series
Authors: Chowdhury Gunja , Tanwar Meghana , Kim Usha , Krishnan Shanthi R.
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

This study aims to explore the clinicopathological features of a rare eyelid tumor, trichoblastoma (TBL).

Methods:

This is a retrospective study of patients undergoing excision biopsies of eyelid masses at a tertiary eye care center in South India, between January 2017 and December 2018. Patient demographics, clinical and differentiating histopathological features, and recurrence of TBL were studied.

Results:

Amongst all eyelid masses, 15 were histopathologically diagnosed with TBL. The average age at presentation was 64 years as female preponderance and average duration of mass being 786 days. Change in color was noted in three patients, change in size in 14 cases and history of bleeding from the mass in three. Lower lid was the most common site involved (eight patients). The average dimension of the lesions was 158.67 mm2. One patient had lid margin involvement with loss of lashes noted in three cases and conjunctival involvement in three patients. Morphologically, eight lesions were nodular while five were noduloulcerative. Pigmented TBL was noted in eight patients, TBL with atypia in three patients. TBL, malignant TBL, rippled variant and TBL with trichofolliculoma were noted in one patient each. Clinical and histopathological diagnoses correlated in four patients. No recurrence was noted with the maximum follow-up period being 23 months.

Conclusion and Relevance:

A differential diagnosis of TBL should be kept in mind while managing eyelid tumors because benign lesions can mimic commonly diagnosed malignancies and vice versa.
Mucormycosis
Authors: Singh Manav Deep , Gujral Shreya , Guleria Munish , Malhotra Shalini , Dewan Taru , Mammel Anwara , Kaur Mohandeep
Published: September 2021

There has been a steep rise in the incidence of mucormycosis in India during the second wave of COVID-19 infection. This outbreak has principally been attributed to uncontrolled diabetes mellitus and injudicious use of corticosteroids. However, many nondiabetics and those never on steroids have also suffered from this deadly disease recently. Thus, research is under the way to look for other offending factors. Mucormycosis is an opportunistic, potentially fatal, fungal infection caused by a group of saprophytic fungi belonging to family Mucoraceae. Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis is the most common reported type. The fungi are angioinvasive in nature, leading to thrombosis and rapid tissue necrosis. It also shows neurotropism. We have conducted current literature review using the electronic database of PubMed and recent mycology books, to analyze the possible risk factors, pathogenesis, clinical features, and management protocol of mucormycosis, giving special emphasis on the Indian data. Medline search was supplemented by the personal communication with some researchers, since the problem is of recent origin and publications are still in progress. Our personal experience and current data declared by, or orders issued by union health ministry or state ministries have also been referred to. A high index of suspicion is essential for the early detection as the initial signs and symptoms might go unnoticed as they are nonspecific. The diagnosis requires the sample collection by nasal and sinus endoscopy, direct microscopic examination under potassium hydroxide (KOH), culture, imaging, and molecular tools. Histopathology and KOH mount are the cornerstones for the confirmation of diagnosis. A combination of aggressive medical therapy and surgical debridement can improve the survival. Amphotericin B continues to be the drug of choice.
A review article on Ahara Vidhi Vidhana (Rules for consuming food) in consonance with Charaka Samhita
Authors: Sankar Raveendran Nair Kumari Lekha Jinu , Harjpal Lalchand , Chandrakar Rupendra , Naik Shrikant
Published: September 2021

Introduction:

It is not just the quantity or quality of food that determines the maintenance of health but also the way of consuming food. The digestion, absorption, and assimilation of food are complex procedures where physical, physiological, social, and emotional factors play a critical role. For achieving complete benefits of food, one should also follow certain rules as told in Ayurveda regarding what, when, where, and how the food should be consumed.

Objectives:

To evaluate and prepare data regarding various dietary and dining rules (Ahara Vidhi Vidhana) recorded in Ayurveda texts, along with their design and utility under the purview of Charaka Samhita.

Materials and Methods:

For this Ayurveda books such as Charaka Samhita, Susrutha Samhita, Ashtanga Sangraha, Ashtanga Hridaya, Sharangadhara Samhita, Bhavaprakasha, and Yogaratnakara were reviewed for gaining information regarding dietetic rules said in Ayurveda and the concept has been presented while keeping the view of Charaka Samhita at the center.

Observations:

The rules are divided into dietary rules and dining rules. The first one explains what food should be consumed depending on the quality of the food and the condition of the person. The latter one deals with the way the food should be consumed, which has direct effects on hygiene of the food and the condition of the mind.

Conclusion:

The findings from the review suggests that by not following these rules, it is understood that tan individual may land up in a sea of many diseases and following them will benefit the overall health.
A survey among Ayurveda wholesalers and retailers in Pune city for understanding the demand for Ayurvedic medicines during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kolhe Rasika , Pushpan Reshmi , Prasad Goli P. , Gurav Arun , Srikanth N.
Published: September 2021

Background:

After the outbreak of Covid-19, a set of guidelines for boosting immunity and self-care measures were promoted by the Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha Sowa Riga, and Homeopathy (AYUSH) department. Pune has surpassed many metro cities of India and is recognized as one of the worst-hit places of Covid-19. Ayurveda is very popular among the citizens of Pune, but there is a lack of systematic data regarding the demand for Ayurveda products and the impact of the pandemic on the sales of Ayurveda medicines.

Objective:

This survey was planned to collect information from Ayurveda medicine retailers regarding the trends in the usage and demand for Ayurveda medicines among the citizens of Pune in the background of Covid-19.

Materials and Methods:

It was a semi-structured questionnaire-based survey study consisting of 43 questions to assess the demand for Ayurveda medicines during the Covid-19 pandemic in Pune city. The study was conducted from August 2020 to September 2020, and the respondents were selected by the convenience sampling method. Data were collected from a total of 33 respondents (retailers and wholesalers of Ayurveda medicine).

Analysis:

The data of the completed questionnaire were systematically summarized in Microsoft excel sheet 2007, and descriptive analysis, including percentages, was used.

Result:

The survey shows that certain raw herbs such as Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L.), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia Miers), and finished products such as AYUSH Kwatha (Formulation to be prepared as a decoction), Chyavanprasha were in high demand during the Covid-19 outbreak. However, the demand for Amritarishta, Guduchi Ghana Vati, and Ashwagandha tablet was also high.

Conclusion:

These preliminary data of the survey study demonstrate the need for conducting similar studies in larger sample sizes across the country, which would enable the concerned authorities to frame policies.
A brief review of Rasaratnasamucchaya of Manikyadeva Suri
Authors: Jagtap Chandrashekhar Y. , Rajput Dhirajsingh S. , Gokarn Rohit
Published: September 2021

Several alchemical treatises were written in the early Medieval period (800–1300 A.D.). The majority of these texts are from Hindu cult, and some are from Buddhism. During this period, seers from Jain cult were also seen as contributing to the field of alchemy. One of very few such texts from Jain alchemy is Rasaratnasamucchaya of Manikyadeva Suri (RRSMS) (thirteenth century A.D.), which is not available in the market nowadays but was found on the website in PDF form. RRSMS, written in Sanskrit language and edited by Sikdar JC, is reviewed briefly in the present work. RRSMS, containing three chapters, is a precise treatise among the available ancient literature on Indian alchemy; it throws light on the state of Indian expertise in the field of alchemy and medicine and sidelight on the social beliefs, diets, various diseases, and their herbo-mineral remedies used during this period. It provides useful information of various kinds of minerals, metals, and herbs with their complex formulations, the different apparatus used in them, and measuring systems such as weight. Various procedures and alchemical preparations of mercury, iron, copper, gold, silver, and other metals and minerals are suggested as potent medicines in different ailments. Thus, it can be concluded that a mass of chemical information on Rasayanavidya (alchemy), metallurgy, and mineralogy, along with the knowledge of Ayurveda, was accumulated during the period of the author. Thus, it is the dire need of the time to bring it out by translating it to the regional languages and accepting commentaries from the greats of Rasashastra for the welfare of the society.
Acute intermittent porphyria presenting with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome
Authors: Sharma Ravi , Singh Ajay , Chaturvedi Anupam
Published: September 2021

Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is an inborn error caused due to inherited deficiency of porphobilinogen (PBG) deaminase leading to increased levels of aminolevulinic acid and PBG. AIP is rarely associated with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES). This association is important because drugs used in the management of seizures may worsen an attack of AIP. We report the case of a 10-year-old male child with AIP, who presented with encephalopathy and transient blindness of cerebral origin.
Acute pulmonary edema in an adolescent female with zinc phosphide poisoning
Authors: Dar Mohammad Irfan , Raina Sandeep , Bhat Vidhushi
Published: September 2021

Zinc phosphide is a commonly used rodenticide in India. Intoxication is associated with multiorgan failure and high mortality. We present a case of 17-year-old adolescent female with suicidal zinc phosphide poisoning, complicated to acute pulmonary edema and refractory shock. The patient responded well to supportive management and intravenous magnesium sulfate. As there is no specific antidote for zinc phosphide, the parenteral magnesium sulfate can be used as adjunct therapy.
Serum procalcitonin as an early inflammatory marker in pediatric ventilator-associated pneumonia
Authors: Nandan Devki , Nimesh Manju , Kumar Sushil , Manik Lucky , Sudarshan J , Duggal Nandini
Published: September 2021

Background:

Delayed diagnosis of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in pediatric patients is associated with accentuated risk of morbidities and mortality. Early diagnosis of VAP is challenging. Serum procalcitonin has been proposed as a promising inflammatory marker for the early diagnosis of VAP, but there is a lack of sufficient evidence for the use of serum procalcitonin for early diagnosis of VAP in children. The present study was conducted to determine the role of serum procalcitonin as an early inflammatory marker for an early and provisional diagnosis of VAP among clinically suspected VAP patients in pediatric intensive care unit settings.

Subjects and Methods:

Seventy-nine pediatric patients (age: 1 month–18 years) with suspected VAP (Simplified Clinical Pulmonary Infection Score >6) were prospectively evaluated with quantitative bronchoalveolar lavage cultures and simultaneously tested for serum procalcitonin levels. Two groups were identified based on culture results and comparatively evaluated for procalcitonin levels, its diagnostic efficacy, antibiotic usage patterns, and mechanical ventilation duration.

Results:

The VAP group had 39 patients, and the non-VAP group had 40 patients. Thirty-two (82%) patients in the VAP group had a procalcitonin value ≥10 ng/ml as against 10 (25%) from the non-VAP group. Two (5.1%) patients in the VAP group had procalcitonin levels ≤1 ng/ml as against 21 (52.5%) patients in the non-VAP group. The receiver operating characteristic area under curve for procalcitonin with a cutoff >10 ng/ml was 0.785 (95% confidence interval = 0.678–0.870) with a sensitivity of 82.05% and specificity of 75%.

Conclusions:

Serum procalcitonin is a reliable biomarker to augment the provisional diagnosis of VAP in clinically suspected cases. Such diagnosis may help in an early institution of definitive therapy for VAP.
Endemic in pandemic
Authors: Joshi Rajesh Subhash , Tamboli Sonali , Surwade Tanmay , Bansode Namrata , Rasal Ashwini , Goel Pranshu
Published: September 2021

Orbital mucormycosis is a dreaded condition and may lead to fatal intracranial infection if it spreads to the intracranial sinuses. The infection is caused by fungi of the order Mucorales. Rhizopus has been reported to be the causative pathogen. The main route of infection is through inhalation of the fungal spores, which may cause lung infection. However, patients with diabetes, immunosuppression, and steroid use are more prone to the infection. We present a case of orbital mucormycosis in a patient who had recovered from coronavirus disease 2019. Early diagnosis and management helped salvage the vision of the patient.
Association between Kidney Function, Proteinuria and the Risk of Multiple Myeloma: A Population-Based Retrospective Cohort Study in South Korea
Authors: Choi Taewoong , Ahn Wooin , Shin Dong Wook , Han Kyungdo , Kim Dahye , Chun Sohyun
Published: September 2021

PurposeWhile renal impairment is one of the first clinical manifestations of multiple myeloma (MM), declined renal function may conversely be a risk factor for cancers including MM. In this study, we investigated the relationship between chronic kidney disease and MM at a population level. Materials and MethodsA total of 9,809,376 adults who participated in a nationwide health screening program and had no MM, cancer or end-stage renal disease at baseline were investigated for incidence of MM. The impact of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and random urine dipstick proteinuria, and interactive associations of the two factors on the MM incidence were evaluated. ResultsThe general incidence of MM was 4.8 per 100,000 person-years (mean follow-up of 8.3 years). Participants with eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (5.8% of participants) had higher MM incidence than those with eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.29; 95% confidence interval, 1.17 to 1.43). When eGFR was graded into five levels, there was a significant inverse dose-response relationship between eGFR level and MM incidence at the lower eGFR levels (reference: eGFR 60-89 mL/min/1.73 m2). A dose-response relationship was also found with degree of dipstick proteinuria and incidence of MM.ConclusionAdults with decreased renal function indicated either by decreased eGFR or presence of proteinuria are at a higher risk of developing MM compared to those without, and there is a dose-response relationship between the severity of renal impairment and MM incidence.
Одномерные динамические системы
Authors: Efremova Lyudmila Sergeevna , Makhrova Elena Nikolaevna
Published: September 2021

Обзор посвящен топологической динамике отображений, заданных на одномерных континуумах, таких как отрезок, окружность, конечные графы (в том числе и конечные деревья), дендриты (локально связные континуумы, не содержащие подмножеств, гомеоморфных окружности). Исследуются взаимосвязи между периодическим поведением траекторий, существованием подковы и гомоклинических траекторий, положительностью топологической энтропии. Приведены необходимые и достаточные условия энтропийного хаоса в непрерывных отображениях отрезка, окружности, конечных графов и достаточные условия энтропийного хаоса в непрерывных отображениях дендритов. Проанализированы причины сходства и различия в свойствах отображений, заданных на указанных континуумах. Рассмотрены обобщения теоремы А. Н. Шарковского на случай некоторых разрывных отображений прямой или отрезка и непрерывных отображений в плоскости.
Библиография: 207 названий.
A Lung Ultrasound Scanning Technique for Children and Adults in Low-Resource Settings: Preliminary Experiences in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Fentress Matthew , Ezibon Phillip , Bulabek Akuot , Schwanfelder Carla , Schrift David , Shah Sachita , Tsung James , Nadimpalli Adi
Published: September 2021

Lung ultrasound is increasingly used as a diagnostic tool for pulmonary pathologies by nonspecialist clinicians in resource-limited settings where chest X-ray may not be readily available. However, the optimal technique for lung ultrasound in these settings is not yet clearly defined. We describe here our experience of implementing a standardized, focused six-zone, 12-view lung ultrasound scanning technique with a high-frequency probe in both adults and children in a resource-limited setting in sub-Saharan Africa. Our experience suggests that this may be a feasible technique to rapidly introduce lung ultrasound to new learners that can be adapted to emergency or outbreak settings. However, research is needed to determine how this technique compares with clinical examination and other available tests for the diagnosis of pathology commonly encountered in resource-limited settings.
Triangulating Evidence to Infer Pathways that Influence Ebola Virus Disease–Related Stigma and Clinical Findings among Survivors: An Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Kelly J. Daniel , Badio Moses , Drew Clara , Wilson Barthalomew , Cooper Joseph B. , Glayweon Meekie , Johnson Kumblytee , Moses J. Soka , Gayedu-Dennis Dehkontee , Torres Jacqueline M. , Oldenburg Catherine E. , Davidson Michelle C. , Huang Chiung-Yu , Steward Wayne T. , Sneller Micheal C. , Rutherford George W. , Reilly Cavan , Fallah Mosoka P. , Weiser Sheri D.
Published: September 2021

Visible signs of disease can evoke stigma while stigma contributes to depression and mental illness, sometimes manifesting as somatic symptoms. We assessed these hypotheses among Ebola virus disease (EVD) survivors, some of whom experienced clinical sequelae. Ebola virus disease survivors in Liberia were enrolled in an observational cohort study starting in June 2015 with visits every 6 months. At baseline and 18 months later, a seven-item index of EVD-related stigma was administered. Clinical findings (self-reported symptoms and abnormal findings) were obtained at each visit. We applied the generalized estimating equation method to assess the bidirectional concurrent and lagged associations between clinical findings and stigma, adjusting for age, gender, educational level, referral to medical care, and HIV serostatus as confounders. When assessing the contribution of stigma to later clinical findings, we restricted clinical findings to five that were also considered somatic symptoms. Data were obtained from 859 EVD survivors. In concurrent longitudinal analyses, each additional clinical finding increased the adjusted odds of stigma by 18% (95% CI: 1.11, 1.25), particularly palpitations, muscle pain, joint pain, urinary frequency, and memory loss. In lagged associations, memory loss (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 4.6; 95% CI: 1.73, 12.36) and anorexia (AOR: 4.17; 95% CI: 1.82, 9.53) were associated with later stigma, but stigma was not significantly associated with later clinical findings. Stigma was associated with select symptoms, not abnormal objective findings. Lagged associations between symptoms and later stigma substantiate the possibility of a pathway related to visible symptoms identified by community members and leading to fear of contagion.
Nonrandom Selection and Multiple Blood Feeding of Human Hosts by Anopheles Vectors: Implications for Malaria Transmission in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Keven John B. , Katusele Michelle , Vinit Rebecca , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Daniela , Hetzel Manuel W. , Robinson Leanne J. , Laman Moses , Karl Stephan , Foran David R. , Walker Edward D.
Published: September 2021

Nonrandom selection and multiple blood feeding of human hosts by Anopheles mosquitoes may exacerbate malaria transmission. Both patterns of blood feeding and their relationship to malaria epidemiology were investigated in Anopheles vectors in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Blood samples from humans and mosquito blood meals were collected in villages and human genetic profiles (“fingerprints”) were analyzed by genotyping 23 microsatellites and a sex-specific marker. Frequency of blood meals acquired from different humans, identified by unique genetic profiles, was fitted to Poisson and negative binomial distributions to test for nonrandom patterns of host selection. Blood meals with more than one genetic profiles were classified as mosquitoes that fed on multiple humans. The age of a person bitten by a mosquito was determined by matching the blood-meal genetic profile to the villagers’ genetic profiles. Malaria infection in humans was determined by PCR test of blood samples. The results show nonrandom distribution of blood feeding among humans, with biased selection toward males and individuals aged 15–30 years. Prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum infection was higher in this age group, suggesting males in this age range could be super-spreaders of malaria parasites. The proportion of mosquitoes that fed on multiple humans ranged from 6% to 13% among villages. The patterns of host utilization observed here can amplify transmission and contribute to the persistence of malaria in PNG despite efforts to suppress it with insecticidal bed nets. Excessive feeding on males aged 15–30 years underscores the importance of targeted interventions focusing on this demographic group.
Response to Valle and Zorello Laporta: Clarifying the Use of Instrumental Variable Methods to Understand the Effects of Environmental Change on Infectious Disease Transmission
Authors: MacDonald Andrew J. , Mordecai Erin A.
Published: September 2021

Identifying the effects of environmental change on the transmission of vectorborne and zoonotic diseases is of fundamental importance in the face of rapid global change. Causal inference approaches, including instrumental variable (IV) estimation, hold promise in disentangling plausibly causal relationships from observational data in these complex systems. Valle and Zorello Laporta recently critiqued the application of such approaches in our recent study of the effects of deforestation on malaria transmission in the Brazilian Amazon on the grounds that key statistical assumptions were not met. Here, we respond to this critique by 1) deriving the IV estimator to clarify the assumptions that Valle and Zorello Laporta conflate and misrepresent in their critique, 2) discussing these key assumptions as they relate to our original study and how our original approach reasonably satisfies the assumptions, and 3) presenting model results using alternative instrumental variables that can be argued more strongly satisfy key assumptions, illustrating that our results and original conclusion—that deforestation drives malaria transmission—remain unchanged.
Hepatitis B Transmission: Is Vertical Transmission the Major Route in Intermediate Endemic Areas? A Proof-of-Concept Study Based on Mother–Child Genotypes
Authors: Poddar Ujjal , Benjamin Mercilena , Aggarwal Rakesh , Sarangi Aditya Narayan , Mathias Amrita , Yachha Surender Kumar , Srivastava Anshu
Published: September 2021

The route of hepatitis B transmission is believed to be horizontal in India, though pediatric studies showed mother as source in the majority of chronic HBV (CHB) cases. We aimed at establishing the fact that mother–child transmission is the main route of acquisition by documenting genotypically identical viruses in mother–child pairs. Blood samples of consecutive children (≤ 18 years) with CHB and high DNA (> 10,000 IU/mL) and their positive mothers were collected from January 2013 to December 2015. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products of HBV-DNA were amplified and sequenced by using BigDye Terminator Cycle Sequencing Kit v3.1 and aligned with previously described sequences in the region of interest for genotypes A to G by using BioEdit software. Phylogenetic tree was generated using p-distance algorithm in MEGA software version 6. Genotyping of 59 (33 children and 26 mothers) subjects include genotype A in 24 (40.7%) and genotype D in 35 (59.3%). Both mother–child pair genotyping was possible in 25. The median age of 25 children (20 males) was 9 (interquartile range, IQR: 4–11) years. The distribution of genotypes among mother–child pairs was similar. The concordance between children and their mothers was 24 of 25 (96%). Evolutionary analysis showed significant similarities between mother and child sequences for both genotype A and D, suggesting thereby the same virus. In conclusion, mother–baby transmission seems to be the major route of acquisition of HBV in children in India and near-complete homology in genetic sequences between mother–child pairs is definite proof for that. However, a larger epidemiological study is required to substantiate our findings.
On the Dangers of Tropical Spiders as a Pet: A Review of Ocular Symptoms Caused by Tarantula Hairs
Authors: Jalink Maarten B. , Wisse Robert P. L.
Published: September 2021

Tarantulas are large spiders that can defend themselves by shedding urticating hairs (setae). In this paper, we aim to discuss the ocular conditions caused by these setae through a literature review. In total, 25 cases were identified in the PubMed database. Tarantula setae have a barbed structure that enables migration through the globe. They give rise to a spectrum of complaints, causing a granulomatous inflammatory reaction in the compartment they settle. Superficial corneal hairs cause a mild keratitis, while hairs that penetrate Descemet’s membrane can induce an anterior uveitis. Both can be treated with local steroids; when possible, hairs should be debrided. Setae that migrate into the posterior segment can cause a focal vitritis that can be more difficult to treat, sometimes requiring vitrectomy.