bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation of meiboscale symptom score and sign score for primary meibomian gland dysfunction in Indian eyes – A cross-sectional study
Authors: Nishant Prateek , Ramawat Achala , Shrinkhal N , Gupta Neeti , Mittal Sanjeev K
Published: June 2022

Purpose:

To evaluate the correlation of Meiboscale with symptom score (Ocular Surface Disease Index [OSDI]) and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) sign score.

Methods:

We performed a cross-sectional hospital-based study of 53 patients of primary MGD who filled the OSDI questionnaire form and underwent complete ocular examination. The MGD sign score was calculated in both eyes using the sum of six grading systems proposed by Arita et al. in 2016. The participants underwent imaging of the upper and lower eyelids of both eyes (212 eyelids) by specular microscope. The area of meibomian gland loss (MGL) was visually assessed and scored using the Meiboscale photographic card. Correlation between these three values – OSDI score, sign score, and MGL score based on Meiboscale - was calculated using Spearman’s correlation analysis and Jonckheere–Terpstra (J–T) test. Correlation coefficient r
s > 0.5 was considered clinically significant.

Results:

Associations between MGL score and OSDI score, as well as between OSDI and sign score were statistically significant, but not clinically significant (r
s = 0.3684, P < 0.001 and r
s = 0.41179, P < 0.001, respectively). The association between MGL score and MGD sign score was statistically as well as clinically significant (r
s = 0.8392, P < 0.001). J–T test revealed large effect size (P < 0.001, r-effect = 0.93).

Conclusion:

The Meiboscale card had not been tested for utility in the Indian outpatient setting yet. Meiboscale can be used for reliable assessment and grading of MGD, and has clinical utility similar to the sum of six MGD sign scores. Additionally, assessment of symptoms using OSDI or a similar questionnaire is also recommended.
Countering choroid prolapse in corneo scleral repair
Authors: Natarajan Radhika , Priyanka Maria T. , Krishnamoorthy Sugepriya
Published: June 2022

Background:

The video shows the meticulous repair of the corneoscleral tear along with management of the choroidal prolapse.

Purpose:

The video demonstrates the steps to establish the anatomical integrity of the globe and tips to avoid suture bites through the choroid in a corneo-scleral tear repair.

Synopsis:

Identification of important landmarks helps in the establishment of anatomical integrity. Therefore, the limbal area of tear is first sutured with 10-O nylon. The extent of wound onto the sclera is checked on the other end of the tear. Second limbal suture at the opposite end of the tear is taken, followed by dividing the corneal extent of tear by rule of half and segmental suturing with 10-O nylon. Then conjunctival peritomy is done to explore the scleral extent and the uveal tissue prolapse. Blunt and atraumatic back tip of Weckel sponge is used perpendicular to the plane of the sclera to push the choroid back aiding the scleral bite. Sclera is sutured with 9-O nylon suture taking care not to include the choroidal tissue. Air injection is done to check for any wound leak. Side port is hydrated, and corneal sutures are buried. The conjunctiva is secured with fibrin glue. Anterior chamber is formed with air bubble. Povidone iodine is instilled and BCL placed.

Highlights:

1. Suturing the landmark areas first; 2. Exploring the extent of wound; 3. Segmental suturing of the cornea; 4. Pushing the choroid back to avoid bites through it while suturing sclera; 5. Air injection to check for wound leaks; 6. Anterior chamber formation with air at the end.

Video link:

https://youtu.be/e5lEyLsQR3U
Evaluation of ocular surface and tear function - A review of current approaches for dry eye
Authors: Koh Shizuka , Rao Srinivas K , Srinivas Sanjeev P , Tong Louis , Young Alvin L
Published: June 2022

An increasing prevalence of dry eye disease in the past decade has resulted in a greater focus on diagnostic methods for this condition. There has been a proliferation of technologies that attempt to quantify various aspects of tear function and ocular surface health. However, a cost-effective, simple, and efficient method remains elusive. In the Indian context, the majority of these patients present to the general ophthalmologist, and a clinical approach that is quick and easy to perform would allow widespread usage for accurate diagnosis. This article reviews currently available methods and their relevance to the general ophthalmologist.
Postoperative microstructural re-modelling and functional outcomes in idiopathic full thickness macular hole
Authors: Bodhankar Paurnima U , Joshi Ajit K , Dronadula Meghana , Patil Abhinandan N
Published: June 2022

Purpose:

To analyze the effect of various macular hole indices and postoperative microstructural changes of all retinal layers on postoperative functional outcomes in patients with idiopathic full-thickness macular hole (FTMH).

Methods:

In this prospective study, pre and post-operative optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans of 36 eyes with idiopathic FTMH were analyzed. Hole indices and microstructural changes of all retinal layers such as ellipsoid zone (EZ), external limiting membrane (ELM) integrity, outer and inner retinal defects, and cystoid resolution were studied on follow-up visits.

Results:

Out of 36 eyes, type-1 closure was achieved in 23 eyes (65.7%) and type-2 closure in 11 eyes (31.42%), one eye showed persistent hole, and one eye was lost to follow-up. The mean minimum diameter of hole (P = 0.026), mean MHI (P = 0.001), DHI (P = 0.158), THI (P = 0.001), and HFF (P < 0.001) showed statistical significance with the type of hole closure. Postoperatively, eyes with intact ELM and EZ had better BCVA at the final visit. The BCVA was better by logMAR 0.73 ± 0.38 (P < 0.001) in patients with absent outer retinal defects. There was a significant difference in BCVA of 0.52 ± 0.35 at 1 month and 0.64 ± 0.34 at 6 months in eyes without inner retinal defects (P < 0.001). At 6 months, cystoid resolution was observed in 28 (80%) eyes. BCVA was significantly better at 1 month (P < 0.001) and at 6 months (P = 0.001) in eyes with no DONFL.

Conclusion:

Macular hole indices determine the closure type. Postoperative regeneration of outer retinal layers and resolution of retinal defects significantly influence the final visual outcomes. ELM recovery is seen as a prerequisite for EZ regeneration with no new IRD after a period of 3 months.
Comparative study of visual outcome of newly designed scleral tuck lens and suture-fixated lens for rehabilitation of aphakia in various aetiologies
Authors: Shah Mehul A , Shah Shreya M , Kataria Apeksha , Baranwal Rupali , Rana Parth
Published: June 2022

Purpose:

Visual rehabilitation in aphakia can be performed using several modalities. However, these modalities could be either technically difficult or expensive. Herein, we developed a scleral tuck lens to provide a simple and cost-effective solution for aphakia and compared its outcome with standard methods.

Methods:

A specially designed posterior chamber self-sustaining lens was implanted in patients with aphakia without capsular support because of different primary etiologies. The visual outcomes, as well as intraoperative and postoperative complications, were examined. The data were retrieved from electronic medical records, and visual outcome and complication rates were compared. The outcomes were also compared according to the etiology and age groups (pediatric and adults).

Results:

We found significant improvement in preoperative and postoperative visual outcome. We did not find any significant difference in visual outcome amongst suture-supported scleral fixated lens with scleral tuck lens.

Conclusion:

Satisfactory visual outcomes were noted with minimal complications; and comparable with gold standard suture fixated lens, however long-term follow-up is required.
Prevalence of risk alleles in the lysyl oxidase-like 1 gene in pseudoexfoliation glaucoma patients in India
Authors: Vallabh Neeru A , Sambare Chitra , Muszynska-Lyons Dorota , Patiyal Sagarika , Kelkar Aditya , Killedar Milind , Malani Sangeeta , Prabhudesai Medha , Walimbe Tejaswini , McKay Gareth J , Willoughby Colin E
Published: June 2022

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to genotype two previously identified SNPs (rs1048661:R141L, and rs3825942:G153D) in the lysyl oxidase-like 1 (LOXL1) gene and determine their association with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (XFG) in patients from Pune, India.

Methods:

All subjects underwent detailed phenotyping, and DNA extraction was performed on blood samples by using standardized techniques. Exon 1 of the LOXL1 gene containing the SNPs (rs3825942:G153D; rs1048661:R141L) were Sanger sequenced, and the results were analyzed using sequence analysis software SeqScape 2.1.1.

Results:

Data were analyzed from 71 patients with XFG and 81 disease-negative, age-matched controls. There was a strong association between the G allele of rs3825942 and XFG with an odds ratio of 10.2 (CI: 3.92–26.6; P < 0.001). The G allele of rs1048661 also showed an increase in risk relative to the T allele (OR = 1.49; CI: 0.88–2.51; P = 0.13), but this was not significant. Haplotype combination frequencies were estimated for rs1048661 and rs3825942; the GG haplotype was associated with a significant increase in risk (OR = 3.91; CI: 2.27–6.73; P < 0.001). Both the GA and TG haplotypes were associated with decreased XFG risk, although the latter was not significant (GA: OR = 0.08; CI: 0.03–0.21; P < 0.001; TG: OR = 0.67; CI: 0.40–1.13; P = 0.13).

Conclusion:

The risk G allele in rs3852942 (G153D) is strongly associated with the development of XFG in the Western Indian population. Genetic screening strategies to identify LOXL1 risk alleles in the population can assist in case definition and early diagnosis, targeting precious resources to high-risk patients.
The electromyographic analysis of orbicularis oculi muscle in epiphora
Authors: Yazicioglu Titap , Inan Rahsan , Agaçkesen Anıl , Oklar Murat , Şimşek Saban
Published: June 2022

Purpose:

Functional epiphora is a clinical condition that presents with the complaint of watery eyes, but without anatomical stenosis in the lacrimal drainage system. Although the mechanism is not clear, there are various possibilities involving the movement of the orbicularis oculi muscle, especially its deeper segment (Horner’s muscle). We aimed to evaluate the function of the orbicularis oculi muscle in patients with patent, but dysfunctional lacrimal drainage system using a quantitative motor unit potential (MUP) analysis.

Methods:

Twenty-eight patients with functional epiphora (mean age = 59 years) and a control group of 28 volunteers were included in the study. Inclusion criteria were persistent and symptomatic epiphora or wiping >10 times per day and diagnosis confirmation by lacrimal irrigation test. Electromyography (EMG) was performed on the deeper segment of the orbicularis oculi muscle (medial and lateral parts). MUP parameters (duration time, amplitude, number of phases, number of turns, area, rise time, and thickness) were evaluated in both groups. Any increase in amplitude, prolongation time (>14 ms), number of turns, and satellite potential was taken as characteristic of the neurogenic type of epiphora, whereas shortened motor unit duration time, increased phase number, and low amplitude are the features of myopathic type.

Results:

Upon MUP analysis of the medial and lateral orbicularis oculi muscle, the increase in duration and thickness values in the medial part and the increase in duration, amplitude, area, and thickness values of the lateral part were found to be statistically significant in the patient group compared to the control group (P < 0.001). In the evaluation of the patients’ medial and lateral orbicularis oculi muscle, the increase in phase values and decrease in amplitude, area, and rise time values were found to be statistically significant (P = 0.024, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P = 0.010, respectively).

Conclusion:

These data show that functional epiphora is due to neurogenic damage of the orbicularis oculi muscle and should be investigated in more detail.
Six-month outcomes of combined conventional needle goniotomy and phacoemulsification in eyes with early to moderate primary open-angle and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma and ocular hypertension
Authors: Eslami Yadollah , Mohammadi Massood , Safizadeh Mona , Tabatabaei Seyed Mehdi
Published: June 2022

Purpose:

Angle-based surgeries for the treatment of open-angle glaucoma have gained popularity in recent years. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of combined phacoemulsification and goniotomy in primary open-angle and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (POAG and PXG) and ocular hypertension (OHTN).

Methods:

In this interventional case series in the setting of the Glaucoma Service at the Farabi Eye Hospital, 32 eyes of 30 patients with early-to-moderate POAG and PXG and OHTN were enrolled. All eyes underwent combined phacoemulsification and needle goniotomy. Intraocular pressure (IOP) and the number of antiglaucoma medications as well as demographic data were recorded at baseline and one day, one week, one month, three months, and six months after the surgery. Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) was used to compare the values of IOP and the number of medications at different time points. Kaplan–Meier graph was used to demonstrate the survival status of the eyes.

Results:

Mean IOP at baseline was 21.8 ± 4.6 mmHg on mean 1.2 ± 1.5 topical medications. There was a 25.2% (16.3 ± 4.5 mmHg) and 32.1% (14.8 ± 3.9 mmHg) reduction in IOP at three and six months after procedure, respectively (P < 0.001). Meanwhile, the decline in medications was 66.7% (0.4 ± 0.9) and 50.0% (0.6 ± 1.1) at the same time points (P = 0.002 and P = 0.048, respectively). Post-operative complications were clot hyphema (n = 1, 3.1%), fibrinous inflammation (n = 1, 3.1%) and distorted pupil (n = 2, 6.3%).

Conclusion:

Combined phacoemulsification and needle goniotomy as a procedure for mild and moderate POAG and PXG and OHTN is as effective as other modified goniotomies in the setting of minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS).
Feasibility study for measuring patients’ visual acuity at home by their caregivers
Authors: Davara Navya Deepthi , Chintoju Raghavachary , Manchikanti Neelima , Thinley Chodup , Vaddavalli Pravin Krishna , Rani Padmaja Kumari , Satgunam PremNandhini
Published: June 2022

Purpose:

To assess the feasibility of measuring patients’ visual acuity (VA) in their homes by their caregivers.

Methods:

Patients consulting in a tertiary eye care institute were prospectively enrolled with informed consent. All underwent standard COMPlog distance VA testing. Patients and caregivers were oriented to test distance VA using the Peek Acuity app. The app was installed on the caregiver’s or patient’s smartphone. The patient’s VA was measured by the caregiver in the clinic (baseline value) under supervision. After 1 week, the caregivers recorded the patient’s VA with the Peek Acuity app at their home and reported the value in a telephone consultation. A questionnaire to assess the ease of using the app was administered at both the baseline visit and 1 week later.

Results:

A total of 100 patients (age group: 13 to 76 years) and 100 caregivers (age group: 17 to 65 years) participated. VA measurements with the Peek Acuity app were comparable with COMPlog (P > 0.1) both during the baseline and after 1-week measurement, regardless of the underlying ocular condition or educational level of the caregivers/patients. Most caregivers (95%) felt the app was easy to use.

Conclusion:

Though the Peek Acuity app was originally developed for health care workers to be used in field visits, we found that with proper orientation, the layperson can also use it. Such orientation can enable caregivers to effectively measure VA at home. Such a tool would enhance teleophthalmology consultations and can minimize the need for short follow-up visits.
How does anisometropia affect the choroidal vascularity index?
Authors: Cevher Selim , Üçer Mehmet Barış , Şahin Tayfun
Published: June 2022

Purpose:

To investigate the choroidal vascularity index (CVI) and morphological features of the choroid in anisometropic amblyopia.

Methods:

In this prospective cross-sectional study, 39 patients with unilateral anisometropic amblyopic patients and 33 eyes of 33 healthy control participants were involved. These participants were examined in terms of axial length (AL), spherical equivalent (SE), central macular thickness (CMT), choroidal thickness (CT), total choroidal area (TCA), luminal area (LA), stromal area (SA), LA/SA ratio, and CVI. All parameters were compared between amblyopic eyes, healthy fellow eyes, and healthy control eyes. The Shapiro–Wilk tests, Chi-square test, the paired t-test, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis test, and Pearson/Spearman correlation tests were used.

Results:

In the hyperopic patients; SE, subfoveal CT, nasal CT, temporal CT, TCA, LA, SA, and CMT were greater in amblyopic eyes than in healthy fellow eyes and control eyes (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P < 0.001, respectively), and CVI, LA/SA ratio, and AL were smaller in amblyopic eyes than in healthy fellow eyes and control eyes ([P < 0.001, P = 0.006], P < 0.001, and P < 0.001, respectively). In the myopic patients, subfoveal CT, nasal CT, temporal CT, TCA, LA, SA values were statistically smaller in amblyopic eyes than in healthy eyes and control eyes ([P < 0.001, P = 0.002), [P = 0.004, P = 0.012], [P = 0.012, P = 0.032], [P < 0.001, P = 0.013], [P < 0.001, P = 0.024], and [P < 0.001, P = 0.047], respectively). The differences in the AL and choroidal parameters were due to myopia and hyperopia.

Conclusion:

The choroidal structural parameters of the amblyopic eyes were different from that of the healthy eyes.
Henoch–Schönlein Purpura
Authors: Mahmuda Mumtahena , Muhammad Nusaiba Deen , Chowdhury Nita , Barua Deva Pratim , Biswas Susmita , Maruf-Ul-Quader Mohammed
Published: June 2022

Henoch–Schönlein purpura (HSP) is one of the most common vasculitis in children. Typically, HSP is considered to be self-limiting, although renal involvement (HSP nephritis) is the principal cause of morbidity from this disease. Familial cases of this disease are not common. Only a few cases have been reported. A 7-year-old girl presented with a history of (H/O) abdominal pain, arthritis, and purpuric rash on lower extremities. Laboratory investigations revealed hematuria, proteinuria, and thrombocytosis with a normal IgA level. Renal biopsy revealed mesangial and focal endocapillary proliferative glomerular morphology with partial cellular crescent. Two weeks later, a sister of the first case presented with palpable purpura without any arthritis or nephritis. In both the cases, there was no H/O any upper respiratory tract infection or atopy. Herein, we speculated that the environmental factors may be responsible for the simultaneous occurrence of HSP in a genetically susceptible environment.
Multidrug-resistant Organisms in Urinary Tract Infections in Bangladeshi Children
Authors: Chowdhury Md Ziaur R. , Benzamin Md , Khatoon Mohsina , Tamal Tuhin B.
Published: June 2022

Background:

The incidence of antibiotic-resistant urinary tract infections (UTIs) in children, particularly multidrug-resistant (MDR) UTIs, is increasing day by day.

Aims:

The aim of this article is to describe the incidence of MDR UTIs in a pediatric population of Bangladesh.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective, observational study was carried out by the Microbiology Department of Sylhet Women’s Medical College, Sylhet and Department of Pediatrics, Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital, Sylhet, Bangladesh. We reviewed the data record software of Microbiology Department of Sylhet Women’s Medical College and Popular Diagnostic Centre, Sylhet from April 2021 to October 2021 and collected all the urine culture-positive reports with symptom (UTI) and without symptom (asymptomatic bacteriuria) of children (0–18 years) and antibiotic sensitivity to different organisms. Patients with incomplete data were excluded from this study. A total of 39 patients were evaluated, and data were entered into Microsoft Excel and analyzed by SPSS software. This study got ethical approval from Departmental Review Board of Sylhet Women’s Medical College, Sylhet, Bangladesh.

Results:

Thirty-nine patients, including 13 (33.3%) males and 26 (66.7%) females, were included in this study, with a 1.92:1 female-to-male ratio. The mean age was 100.5 months (SD 90.5 months). MDR organism was identified in 23 patients (55%). Escherichia coli was the most common organism, found in 23 (59%) of the cultures, with the next being Klebsiella spp. 12 (30.8%), Enterococcus spp. 2 (5.1%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa 1 (2.6%), and Staphylococcus aureus 1 (2.6%). About 48% of E. coli, 75% of Klebsiella, 100% of Enterococcus, and 100% of Pseudomonas were MDR. Imipenem is 100% sensitive and linezolid is 100% resistant. Among the oral drugs, nitrofurantoin had less resistance.

Conclusion:

The majority of UTIs in children are MDR, with E. coli being the most common organism.
Hypernatremic Dehydration with Acute Kidney Injury in a Neonate
Authors: Sultana Azmeri , Afroze Sharmin , Jahan Israt , Baten Abdul
Published: June 2022

Neonatal hypernatremic dehydration is not so uncommon and causes high morbidity and mortality if associated with acute kidney injury (AKI). We herein discuss a neonate who presented with serum sodium of 193 mmol/L with AKI, and we successfully treated this neonate with peritoneal dialysis.
MRI and ultrasonography in the evaluation of causes of shoulder pain
Authors: Elshenawy Esraa , Nassar Ibrahim A. , Elkhouly Radwa M. , Dabees Naglaa
Published: June 2022

Background

The shoulder is a complex joint that is essential for daily activities. Shoulder pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint. Shoulder ultrasound (US) is one of the best imaging techniques for the evaluation of shoulder pain. MRI is a powerful tool in the diagnosis of causes of shoulder pain because it is noninvasive and it provides good evaluation of the soft tissue, labrum, and bones.

Aim

The aim of our study was to evaluate the role of MRI and US in the diagnosis of the etiology of shoulder pain.

Patients and methods

This study was performed on 30 patients complaining of shoulder pain referred to the Radiodiagnosis Department at Tanta University Hospitals for performing shoulder US and MRI.

Results

The most common cause of shoulder pain in this study was rotator cuff muscle injury especially supraspinatus muscle. There was good agreement between US and MRI in the diagnosis of rotator cuff muscle lesions with kappa test=0.734, while there was no agreement between US and MRI in the diagnosis of labral tears with kappa test=0, and in cases with bony lesions the agreement between US and MRI was moderate with kappa test=0.420.

Conclusion

US is an effective imaging modality in evaluating patients with shoulder pain. US is the modality of first choice for the evaluation of rotator cuff tears. MRI is superior to US in the assessment of correct site and the extent of rotator cuff muscle tear and in evaluating bony and labral lesions.
Risk factors of recurrent pharyngotonsillitis among preschool children attending a rural family health center, Kafr El-Sheikh Egypt
Authors: Mohamed Fatma Y. , Saied Shimaa M. , Attala Asmaa O. , Atlam Samir Abd Al Majeed
Published: June 2022

Background

Recurrent pharyngotonsillitis in children poses a global and local public health burden and causes an extra load on families and health systems.

Aim

This study aimed to determine the frequency and some potential risk factors for recurrent pharyngotonsillitis among the preschool children attending Matboul Family Health-Care Center, Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate, Egypt.

Patients and methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out on 360 children, using a predesigned valid interview questionnaire filled by interviewing parents of studied children.

Results

About two-thirds (66.4%) of the participants had recurrent pharyngotonsillitis, regarding seasonal variations of pharyngotonsillitis attack, more than two-thirds of attacks (79.7%) in recurrent cases occurred during winter, while in nonrecurrent cases the majority of cases (86.4%) occurred in autumn; second child or next was more prone to recurrence. There was a significant relationship between recurrent pharyngotonsillitis and some sociodemographic and clinical risk factors as family income, living conditions, passive smoking, bad general hygiene, frequent receiving of antibiotics, comorbidities such as allergy, and a positive family history of recurrence. Clinical severity and course of episodes, history of allergy, family socioeconomics, and handwashing to be significant independent predictors of recurrent pharyngotonsillitis.

Conclusions and recommendations

Recurrent pharyngotonsillitis was prevalent in the studied children; clinical severity and course of episodes, history of allergy, family socioeconomics, and handwashing were found to be significant independent predictors of recurrence of pharyngotonsillitis. Many of recurrence risk factors are preventable. So, health education and socioeconomic promotion should be focused.
A short proof of a theorem of Cotti, Dubrovin and Guzzetti
Authors: Sabbah Claude
Published: June 2022

We give a short proof of a theorem of G. Cotti, B. Dubrovin and D. Guzzetti (2019/2021) asserting the vanishing of some entries of the Stokes matrices at coalescing points of an isomonodromic deformation.
Effect of Bushen Qudu Decoction on TGF-β1/Smads signal transduction pathway in rats with chronic renal failure
Authors: Shi Weirong , Wu Qiang , Wu Qiuhong , Tang Juan
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To study the impact of Bushen Qudu Decoction on renal function, renal tissue morphology and TGF-β1/Smads signal transduction pathway in adenine-induced chronic renal failure rats.Methods: 76 rats were assigned to normal group, model group, uremic clearance group, benazepil group, Bushen Qudu decoction gunshan A group and Bushen Qudu decoction Guiza group. Renal failure was induced in rats using intragastric administration of adenine for 30 days. The expressions of TGF-β1, Smad2, Smad3 and Smad6 were determined with immunohistochemistry. Real-time quantitative PCR was employed to assay the mRNA expression of TGF-β1 in each group, while protein expressions of Smad2, Smad3 and Smad6 were determined with western blot. The scores of glomerular and tubulointerstitial lesions in each group were obtained by histopathological examination.Results: Bushen Qudu decoction significantly reduced BUN and creatinine in rats with chronic renal failure; furthermore, it also lowered the protein expressions of TGF-β1 and SMAD2/3, but Smad6 protein, relative to control (p < 0.05). The TGF-β1mRNA expression was down-regulated (p < 0.05), relative to control group.Conclusion: Bushen Qudu decoction reduces renal interstitial fibrosis in rats and delays the progression of chronic renal failure by regulating TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway. These findings provide some insight that should facilitate the development of new drugs that would delay the onset of chronic renal failure.
Pharmacological evaluation of Typha domingensis for its potentials against diet-induced hyperlipidemia and associated complications
Authors: Akram Adnan , Jabeen Qaiser
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To evaluate the hyperlipidemic potential of the methanolic-aqueous extract of Typha domingensis Pers.Method: Hyperlipidemia was induced in Wistar rats with high fat diet (HFD). The animals were divided into five groups; normal control group was administered normal diet and water ad libitum; whereas, all other groups were given HFD along with respective treatment; i.e., positive control group (normal saline, 1 ml/kg; p.o.), standard control group (atrovastatin 5 mg/kg; p.o.) and treatment groups received 70 % methanolic-aqueous extract of Typha domingensis (TD.Cr) at the 100 and 300 mg/kg p.o. After 28 days, the animals were weighed, blood was collected and sera separated. Aortas were dissected out for histological studies. Sera were analyzed for total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL and LDL. Hypotensive effects were evaluated through invasive technique followed by diuretic activity.Results: Typha domingensis extract significantly lowered the levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL to 132.30 ± 1.145, 161.50 ± 1.33 and 41.67 ± 1.28 mg/dL, respectively, at 100 mg/kg (p < 0.001) and 111.50 ± 1.05, 157.70 ± 1.74 and 29.17 ± 0.98 mg/dL, at 300 mg/kg, respectively (p < 0.001). It produced anti-obesity effects represented as reduction in body weight by 17.00 ± 1.29 to 1.5 ± 7.63 g (p < 0.001) from 100 to 300 mg/kg, respectively, compared to control. Histological studies revealed the anti-atherosclerotic effect of the plant extract. A decreasing mean arterial blood pressure revealed hypotensive effects.Conclusion: Typha domingensis has a potential for the treatment of diet-induced hyperlipidemia and associated complications. However, clinical investigations are required to buttress these assertions.
Isolation of a pentacyclic triterpenoid from the antiplasmodial bioactive fraction of Nauclea latifolia (Sm) roots
Authors: Asanga Edet E , Igile Godwin O , Eseyin Olorunfemi A , Ebong Patrick E , Essien Emmanuel E , Thomas Paul S , Johnson Ekarika C
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To research the antiplasmodial property of aqueous extract, fractions, and residue of Nauclea latifolia roots and to isolate the components responsible for the antiplasmodial activity.Methods: Roots of N. latifolia were macerated with distilled water; the extract was obtained, successively partitioned with ethyl acetate and butanol. The extract, fractions, and the residue obtained were evaluated for their in vivo antiplasmodial activity and compared with amodiaquine and artesunate. The residue (which exhibited the best therapeutic index) was subjected to column and thin layer chromatography to isolate its components. Purification led to the isolation of betulinic acid, which was characterized with the aid of spectroscopic techniques (1H, 13C NMR, and EI-MS).Results: The residue significantly inhibited parasite growth from 42.8 % (D2) to 77.6 % (D5). Therefore, residue exhibited the highest therapeutic index against Plasmodium berghei in the three in vivo antiplasmodial (prophylactic, suppressive, and curative) models and it compared favourably with amodiaquine (80.5 %) and artesunate (85.9 %). The major component of the residue was betulinic acid.Conclusion: The results validate the antiplasmodial claims of the roots of N. latifolia in folkloric medicine, and demonstrated that the isolate has a high therapeutic index in this regard. Further investigations, however, are required to determine the clinical efficacy and safety of the compound/isolate.
Inhibition of miR-182 represses growth of hepatocellular carcinoma cells by targeting SOX11
Authors: Liu Zhi , Chen Jianyu , Mo Lin , Chuan Chuan , Chen Hui , Li Jianshui , Hou Songlin
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effect of microRNA-182 (miR-182) on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its mechanisms of action.Methods: Sixty-five HCC tissues and matched adjacent tissues were obtained, and miR-182 and sexdetermining region on the Y Chromosome (SRY)-related HMG box 11 (SOX11) expression were quantified using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). SOX11-positive cells were identified by immunohistochemistry and the correlation between SOX11 and miR-182 expression was analyzed by Spearman correlation analysis. Huh-7 cells were transfected with the miR-182 mimic, the miR-182 inhibitor, and/or si-SOX11, and cell proliferation was measured by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry. Luciferase reporter assay was used to investigate the putative target gene of miR-182. A xenograft nude mouse model was established by transfection  with miR-182 antagomir, while tumor volume and weight were calculated. SOX11, cleaved caspase-3, cleaved poly (ADP ribose) polymerase (PARP), B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), and Bcl-2-associated X (Bax) protein levels were analyzed by western blot.Results: MiR-182 expression increased and SOX11 expression was decreased in HCC tissues (p < 0.05). Luciferase reporter assay data confirmed that miR-182 directly targets SOX11. Inhibition of miR-182 repressed proliferation and Bcl-2 expression, but increased protein expression of cleaved caspase-3, cleaved RAPP, and Bax in Huh-7 cells (p < 0.05). In addition, suppression of SOX11 reversed the effects of miR-182 on cell proliferation and apoptosis. The miR-182 antagomir decreased tumor growth and miR-182 expression but increased SOX11 expression in vivo (p < 0.05).Conclusion: MiR-182 and SOX11 may be novel therapeutic targets for HCC patients.
Bez Kischa, Wańkowicza i de Saint-Exupéry’ego . Wielcy nieobecni w biografii Ryszarda Kapuścińskiego w 15. rocznicę śmierci, 90. urodzin i 60. debiutu „Buszem po polsku”
Authors: Kusiba Marek
Published: June 2022

W artykule „Bez Kischa, Wańkowicza i de Saint-Exupéry’ego. Wielcy nieobecni w biografii Ryszarda Kapuścińskiego” autor podejmuje temat pośmiertnej recepcji twórczości autora „Wojny futbolowej” w Polsce. Omawia pomijany w dyskusjach o „demaskatorskiej” biografii Artura Domosławskiego „Kapuściński non-fiction” wątek świadomego pozbawienia w tej pracy Ryszarda Kapuścińskiego tożsamości – i godności – reportera, czyli wyrwania go z kontekstu polskiego i światowego reportażu literackiego. Autor artykułu zamieszcza długą „listę nieobecności” – nazwisk twórców, z którymi Kapuściński współpracował, korespondował, przyjaźnił się, na których się powoływał. Bez ich obecności oraz bez podjęcia zagadnień z nimi związanych biografia wybitnego pisarza zamienia się w popularną publicystykę, adresowaną do niewybrednego czytelnika.

Without Kisch, Wańkowicz and de Saint-Exupéry. The forgotten honorable mentions from Ryszard Kapuściński’s biography

In this paper Marek Kusiba explores how the author of “The Soccer War” was posthumously received by the Poles. He discusses how Kapuściński’s identity was deliberately defamed in Artur Domosławski’s “Kapuściński non-fiction”. A work that attempts to rob Kapuściński of his dignity as a reporter by decontextualizing his presence within the realms of Polish and world literary reportage. The author of this article cites an extensive list of the omitted details and names with whom Kapuściński cooperated, corresponded and befriended, without whose inclusion such a biography devolves into popular journalism catering to the unsophisticated reader.
Od prasowego odcinka do snapa. Nowe wymiary cykliczności polskiego reportażu
Authors: Frukacz Katarzyna
Published: June 2022

Artykuł ma na celu ukazanie przeobrażeń cyklicznych form polskiego reportażu wskutek ekspansji nowych technologii medialnych. Analizę ukierunkowuje pojęcie cyklu będącego zbiorem autonomicznych, choć skorelowanych narracji cząstkowych, publikowanych w ustalonym porządku, miejscu i czasie. Mechanizm ten jest rozpatrywany w perspektywie diachronicznej na przykładzie wybranych relacji reporterskich, omówionych w trzech częściach opisowych. Pierwsza ilustruje rozwój prasowych serii reportaży, drukowanych na wzór powieści odcinkowych w gazetach i czasopismach przełomu XIX i XX wieku. Druga dotyczy fazy ewolucji cykli dziennikarskich w efekcie ich przenikania do internetu i przekształcania w doświadczenia konwergencyjne. Trzecia, finalna część zawiera przegląd cyklicznych innowacji gatunkowych, które powstały w mediach społecznościowych jako alternatywa wobec konwencjonalnych metod dokumentowania faktów. Wyróżnione tendencje pozwalają sformułować tezę o stopniowym zastępowaniu reportażu literackiego przez szerzej rozumianą intencję reporterską, która uwidacznia się w relacjach kreowanych przy użyciu różnych kodów i platform medialnych.

From the press episode to snap. New dimensions of cyclicality of Polish reportage

The aim of this article is to show the transformation of cyclic forms of Polish reporting due to the expansion of new media technologies. This analysis is directed by the concept of cycle as a collection of autonomous, though correlated partial narratives published in the appointed order at a certain place and time. This mechanism is examined in the diachronic perspective on the example of selected reporting accounts, discussed in three depictive parts. The first one illustrates the development of the press series of reporting, printed similar to serialised novels in newspapers and magazines at the turn of the 19th and 20th century. The second portion of the article concerns the phase in which journalistic cycles have evolved as a result of integrating the internet and turning into a convergence experience. The final section of the article contains an overview of cyclic genre innovations, that have developed in social media as an alternative to conventional methods of documenting facts. The distinguished tendencies allow for a thesis that literary reporting is gradually being replaced by more broadly understood reporter’s intention which reveals itself in accounts created through different codes and media platforms.
Rola radców prawnych w sygnalizacji naruszenia prawa
Authors: Sołtys Bogusław
Published: June 2022

The role of attorneys-at-law in whistleblowing

The article discusses the role of attorneys-at-law in the whistleblowing system in connection with the implementation of EU Directive 2019/1937 on the protection of persons who report breaches of Union law into the Polish legal order. The article provides an assessment of the proposed provisions regarding attorneys-at-law and points out the need for their necessary amendments. It also conducts a determination of whether and to what extent there is a need to specify the rules of professional deontology of attorneys-at-law in connection with their various activities related to the issue of whistleblowing.
Obowiązek działania zgodnie z kontraktem, w duchu wzajemnego zaufania oraz współpracy. Klauzula 10.1 NEC w świetle prawa polskiego
Authors: Dąbrowska Agnieszka Małgorzata
Published: June 2022

An obligation to act in accordance with a contract, in a spirit of mutual trust and business cooperation. Clause 10.1 of NEC in the light of Polish law

This article presents the characteristics of the NEC contracts and an examination of clause 10.1 contained in such contracts. As these publications, as well as the competing FIDIC Conditions of Contract, originate from the Anglo-Saxon legal culture, the article provides a detailed analysis of clause 10.1 of the NECs, which introduces general rules of conduct for the participants with reference to Polish law. The aforementioned clause imposes an obligation on the parties to act in accordance with the contract, in the spirit of mutual trust and business cooperation. The analysis of the concepts present in the clause in question and of the Polish legal doctrine has produced the conclusion that expressing such a standard of conduct explicitly in the NEC template is not needed in Polish jurisdiction due to the correspondence of these rules of conduct with the values and princi-ples governing the national legal system.
Fact-checking a wolność słowa
Authors: Maroń Grzegorz
Published: June 2022

Fact-checking and freedom of speech

The article discusses the impact of the fact-checking process on freedom of speech. On the one hand, it was pointed out that the verification of the facts by specialized organizations, for various reasons, cannot be regarded as a fully reliable way of distinguishing between truth and falsehood in socially important matters. The findings made within the framework of fact-checking often fit into the public debate by taking a partisan position on a specific issue, and not so much objectively determining the truthfulness of certain statements formulated in public discourse. On the other hand, it was noted that fact-checking, although it does not undermine the freedom of speech – on the contrary, being an expression of it – is at the basis of the decisions of online social networking services, which may be viewed as an interference with the freedom of expression. While labeling content as untrue or misleading is not a violation of the freedom of speech of people formulating or disseminating it, removing such content from social networking services as well as blocking and obstructing access to legal content considered to be disinformation does constitute the infringement of freedom of expression.
Polski Ład – wątpliwości konstytucyjne
Authors: Adamczyk Jan Kazimierz
Published: June 2022

The Polish Deal – constitutional uncertainties

The aim of this article was to assess the constitutionality of the Act of October 29, 2021 amending the Personal Income Tax Act, the Corporate Income Tax Act and certain other acts. This regulation – proclaimed by politicians as the most significant reform of the tax system in history – was created extremely quickly, with no extensive consultations, and the manner of the proceedings was reflected in the quality of the act itself. In the opinion of the author of this article, the flawed regulations also concern their constitutionality. Due to the hasty proceedings, it is questionable whether the appropriate vacatio legis period was maintained and whether the regulations on accounting for sale of cars used for business activity and the prohibition of amortization of residential property as part of business activity infringe the previously acquired rights of taxpayers.
Obowiązek wysłuchania przez sąd podejrzanego przed orzeczeniem względem niego środka zabezpieczającego – glosa do punktu 1 wyroku Trybunału Konstytucyjnego z 19 sierpnia 2020 r. (K 46/15)
Authors: Falenta Paweł
Published: June 2022

Legal obligation of the court to hear the suspect before adjudicating a security measure against him – gloss to item no. 1 of the judgment of the Constitutional Tribunal of the Republic of Poland of August 19, 2020 (case file no. K 46/15)

The gloss is an attempt to present the approving stance of the author on the judgment of the Constitutional Tribunal of the Republic of Poland. It concerns the issue of appropriate procedural protection of rights of a suspect in case of his insanity. The author emphasizes the most important elements of the Polish Ombudsman’s motion in this case, analyzes the legal aspects of the regulations in question and summarizes the most important theses of the judgment in relation to their validity.
Przegląd orzecznictwa Sądu Najwyższego
Authors: Milkowski Kacper
Published: June 2022

Overview of the decisions of the Polish Supreme Court

The Resolution of the Polish Supreme Court of March 24, 2022 (case file no. III CZP 48/22) is of particular importance for legal practice. The Court indicated that the sanction of nullity provided for in Article 6 (1) of the Act of March 24, 1920 on the Acquisition of Real Estate by Foreigners does not apply to the acquisition of real estate on the basis of a legally binding decision on the division of joint property after the termination of joint property between spouses. In the Resolution of April 13, 2022 (III CZP 90/22), the Polish Supreme Court stated that minors who are step-siblings are not participants in the proceedings for establishing contact between them (Article 1136 of the Code of Commercial Companies). Moreover, in the Resolution of April 13, 2022 (III CZP 85/22), the Polish Supreme Court decided that the submission of an application for the preparation of a justification and the delivery of a decision with the justification does not constitute a condition for the admissibility of a complaint against the decision referred to in Article 7661 § 1 of the Polish Code of Civil Procedure. In addition, the Polish Supreme Court, in the Resolution of April 6, 2022 (III CZP 12/22), stated that the court of the second instance, in a closed session, may issue a decision to quash the judgment and discontinue the proceedings in a panel of three judges (Article 386 § 3 in connection with Article 367 § 3 in connection with Article 374 of the Polish Code of Civil Procedure).
Sprawozdanie z Ogólnopolskiej Konferencji Naukowej Prawniczych Zawodów Zaufania Publicznego „Członkostwo w samorządach zawodowych”, Toruń, 20 stycznia 2022 r.
Authors: Główczewska Aleksandra , Rokicka-Murszewska Karolina
Published: June 2022

The report on the National Scientific Conference of Legal Professions of Public Trust, “Membership in professional self-governments”, Toruń, January 20, 2022.

The third edition of the National Scientific Conference of Legal Professions of Public Trust was held on January 20, 2022. The event was organized remotely, due to the current epidemic situation, and was dedicated to the topic of membership in professional self-governments. The conference was organized by the Department of Administrative Law at the Faculty of Law and Administration of Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń. The main topics discussed during the conference were primarily inspired by the legislative changes concerning specific legal professions of public trust and also by de lege ferenda proposals regarding memberships in professional self-governments. A total of eleven presenters delivered lectures during the conference, both representatives of academic circles of six universities, as well as practitioners – representatives of professional self-governments of attorneys-at-law, advocates and notaries.
CFD Analysis of Convergent-Divergent Nozzle for Low Altitude Rocket
Authors:   High Energy Material Research Laboratory (HEMREL), School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia, Hamid Ahmad Hussein Abdul , Ismail Nik Muhammad Hafiz Nik , Salleh Zuraidah , Noh Mohd Hafiz Mohd , Sujana Mohammad Juani , Muhammad Mohamad Amirul
Published: June 2022

The convergent-divergent nozzle in rocket engines is used to turn the chemical energy developed via the combustion chamber into kinetic energy. The wall of the nozzle is properly contoured to efficiently accelerate the combustion product towards the nozzle exit. However, for low-to medium-altitude rockets (typically within the range of 10 to 145 km), nozzle contouring increases the overall production cost due to a more complicated fabrication process. The development of the dual conical nozzle seeks to compromise between performance and ease of fabrication. The present investigation seeks to analyze small rocket nozzles involving a typical conical nozzle, Truncated Optimized Contour (TOC) and Truncated Idealized Contour nozzles and newly designed dual conical nozzles. Rocket nozzles with various divergence angles and exit area ratios are numerically analyzed. It was discovered that the best dual conical nozzle can produce an average thrust comparable to that of a standard conical nozzle. In some cases, the dual conical nozzle outperforms its conical and contoured counterparts. Keywords— Dual conical nozzle, TOC nozzle, TIC nozzle, shockwaves, thrust.
Analyzing the Efficacy of Salvinia molesta Mitchell as Phytoremediation Agent for Lead (Pb)
Authors: Rachmadiarti F. , Trimulyono G. , Utomo W. H.
Published: June 2022

Heavy metals, especially Pb (lead), are generally toxic to living things. Pb can contaminate organisms in the water through the food chain. The purpose of this study is to enhance water quality by using Salvinia molesta to phytoremediate Pb-polluted water. This study aims to evaluate the ability of S. molesta as a Pb phytoremediator. We evaluated total protein, free amino acids produced by the plant, and plant growth (dry biomass). S. molesta was grown in a hydroponic system exposed to Pb at dosages of 0, 5, 10, and 15 ppm for 7 and 14 days. Pb level was analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer and amino acids were analyzed using High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography. Data were statistically analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey’s test (α < 0.05). Results showed a significant change in Pb content in the roots and leaves of Pb-exposed S. molesta Mitch compared to control. In Pb-exposed plants, total protein and amino acids, especially cysteine, were lowered. S. molesta could be used as a Pb phytoremediator due to its high potential to survive Pb exposure and its ability to absorb Pb.