bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Du symptôme « universitaire ». Le piège capitaliste du relâchement universitaire
Authors: Sauret Marie-Jean
Published: February 2022

L’humain a troqué sa niche écologique contre un habitat langagier : le langage est le moyen et ce qu’il convient de transmettre pour que le processus d’humanisation soit pérenne. Cet habitat, Lacan en a fourni une théorie en termes de lien social, combinant quatre modalités de discours pour faire tenir les sujets ensemble. Leur ronde suppose leur distinction permise concrètement à partir de l’avènement du Discours Analytique. Les choses se compliquent avec le néolibéralisme, lequel à la fois profite de la science et s’accommode d’une dégradation du Discours Universitaire (et de l’Université) : tel est le symptôme universitaire, délétère aussi bien pour la science, le lien social que le sujet lui-même. Aucune greffe de savoir ne le restaurera, mais la réitération d’un acte analogue à celui par lequel Freud a accueilli le savoir analysant. Une conception de l’enseignant analysant s’en déduit.
Nakai Hisao : clinique, art-thérapie et politique
Authors: Matsumoto Takuya
Published: February 2022

Dans cet article, nous avons présenté Nakai Hisao, un psychiatre qui a eu une profonde influence sur la psychiatrie et la psychopathologie japonaise. Nakai a mis l’accent sur le processus de rémission de la schizophrénie plutôt que sur le processus de développement. Grâce à l’art-thérapie et à l’observation quotidienne, il a révélé que la schizophrénie n’est pas un processus irréversible, mais plutôt une réponse oscillatoire en changement constant. L’influence de Jacques Lacan, Gilles Deleuze, Félix Guattari, Jean Oury et d’autres est évidente dans sa théorie. Enfin, la relation entre la clinique et la politique chez Nakai a également été examinée en termes d’« après mai 68 ».
Confrontées à l’inédit, des institutions en pleine aventure, des travailleurs sociaux imaginatifs…
Authors: Defrance Michel
Published: February 2022

La « crise du Covid » a été un révélateur des fonctionnements institutionnels. Les organisations ont dû s’adapter à la restriction des relations « en présentiel » en s’appuyant sur les outils de communication, téléphone et Internet. Les professionnels ont dû repenser leurs pratiques, prendre en compte les besoins accrus des publics. Les équipes de direction ont dû maintenir leur fonction dans une distanciation qui a complexifié leur management. Confrontées à l’inédit, des institutions « en pleine aventure » ont été animées par des travailleurs sociaux imaginatifs. L’article offre quelques réflexions sur cette période d’incertitude.
La parole et la participation des personnes concernées en temps de gestion de crise
Authors: Maisonneuve Blandine
Published: February 2022

Cet article se propose de revenir sur la période du premier confinement dans le secteur de l’accueil-hébergement-insertion à partir d’une plate-forme numérique de recueil de récits de confinement de personnes en situation de précarité par leurs pairs. Au travers des témoignages postés sur cette plate-forme et d’un retour d’expérience des principaux acteurs, professionnels et personnes accueillies/accompagnées, il met en évidence les effets du confinement et du déploiement des mesures sanitaires et sociales auprès des personnes en situation de pauvreté. Il fournit également des pistes de réflexion sur l’effet de l’expertise d’usage sur les politiques publiques et la construction d’une démarche et d’une parole collectives.
Use of Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 in paediatric gastrointestinal disorders: an updated review
Authors: Dargenio V.N. , Cristofori F. , Dargenio C. , Giordano P. , Indrio F. , Celano G. , Francavilla R.
Published: February 2022

Strains of lactobacilli are the most widely used probiotics and can be found in a large variety of food products and food supplements throughout the world. In this study, the evidence on Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 (LR DSM 17938) has been reviewed. This species secretes reuterin and other substances singularly or in microvesicles, inhibiting pathogen growth and interacting with the intestinal microbiota and mucosa, restoring homeostasis. The use of LR DSM 17938 has been exploited in several pathological conditions. Preclinical research has shown that this probiotic can ameliorate dysbiosis and, by interacting with intestinal mucosal cells, can raise the pain threshold and promote gastrointestinal motility. These aspects are amongst the significant components in functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as colic and regurgitation in infants, functional abdominal pain and functional constipation in children and adolescents. This strain can decrease the duration of acute diarrhoea and hospitalization for acute gastroenteritis but does not seem to prevent nosocomial diarrhoea and antibiotic-associated diarrhoea. Because of its ability to survive in the gastric environment, it has been tested in Helicobacter pylori infection, showing a significant decrease of antibiotic-associated side effects and a tendency to increase the eradication rate. Finally, all these studies have shown the excellent safety of LR DSM 17938 even at higher dosages. In conclusion data from various clinical trials here reviewed can guide the clinician to find the correct dose, frequency of administration, and therapy duration.
Robust policy selection and harvest risk quantification for natural resources management under model uncertainty
Authors: Papayiannis Georgios I.
Published: February 2022

In this work the problem of optimal harvesting policy selection for natural resources management under model uncertainty is investigated. Under the framework of the neoclassical growth model dynamics, the associated optimal control problem is investigated by introducing the concept of model uncertainty on the initial conditions of the operational procedure. At this stage, the notion of convex risk measures, and in particular the class of Fréchet risk measures, is employed in order to quantify the total operational and marginal risk, whereas simultaneously obtaining robust to model uncertainty harvesting strategies.
Periodic solution of a stage-structured predator-prey model with Crowley-Martin type functional response
Authors: Lu Weijie ,   Department of Mathematics, Zhejiang Normal University, 321004, Jinhua, China, Xia Yonghui
Published: February 2022

In this paper, the existence of positive periodic solution of stage-structured predator-prey model with Crowley-Martin type functional response is investigated. The prey population fall into two categories: mature and immature prey. The predator population is dependent only on mature prey and is influenced by Crowley-Martin type functional response. Based on the Mawhin's coincidence degree theory and nontrivial estimation techniques for a priori bounds of unknown solutions to the operator equation $ Fz = \mu Nz $, we prove the existence of positive periodic solution. Finally, the effectiveness of our result is verified by an example and numerical simulation.
Two new generalized iteration methods for solving absolute value equations using $ M $-matrix
Authors: Ali Rashid ,   School of Mathematics and Statistics, HNP-LAMA, Central South University, Changsha 410083, Hunan, China, Khan Ilyas , Ali Asad , Mohamed Abdullah ,   Department of Mathematics, College of Science Al-Zulfi, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia,   Research Centre, Future University in Egypt, New Cairo 11745, Egypt
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we present two new generalized Gauss-Seidel iteration methods for solving absolute value equations $ Ax-| x | = b, $ where $ A $ is an $ M $-matrix. Furthermore, we demonstrate their convergence under specific assumptions. Numerical tests indicate the efficiency of the suggested methods with suitable parameters.
Asymptotic stability for quaternion-valued BAM neural networks via a contradictory method and two Lyapunov functionals
Authors: Li Ailing ,   College of Science, Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, 075000, China, Lv Mengting , Yan Yifang ,   School of Mathematics, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, China
Published: February 2022

We explore the existence and asymptotic stability of equilibrium point for a class of quaternion-valued BAM neural networks with time-varying delays. Firstly, by employing Homeomorphism theorem and a contradictory method with novel analysis skills, a criterion ensuring the existence of equilibrium point of the considered quaternion-valued BAM neural networks is acquired. Secondly, by constructing two Lyapunov functionals, a criterion assuring the global asymptotic stability of equilibrium point for above discussed quaternion-valued BAM is presented. Applying a contradictory method to study the equilibrium point and applying two Lyapunov functionals to study stability of equilibrium point are completely new methods.
Extension-closed subcategories in extriangulated categories
Authors: Tan Lingling ,   School of Mathematical Sciences, Qufu Normal University, Qufu 273165, China, Zhao Tiwei
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we mainly focus on extension-closed subcategories of extriangulated categories. Let $ {\mathcal{X}} $ be an extension-closed subcategory. We show that if $ C $ is $ {\mathcal{X}} $-projective and there is a minimal right almost split deflation in $ {\mathcal{X}} $ ending by $ C $, then there is an $ {\mathfrak{s}} $-triangle ending by $ C $ which is very similar to an Auslander-Reiten triangle in $ {\mathcal{X}} $. We also show that if the extriangulated category admits a negative first extension $ {\mathbb{E}}^{-1} $, and $ {\mathcal{X}} $ is self-orthogonal with respect to $ {\mathbb{E}}^{-1} $, then $ {\mathcal{X}} $ has an exact structure.
Online Collaborative Learning Using Microsoft Teams in Higher Education Amid COVID-19
Authors: Tan Chekfoung , Casanova Diogo , Huet Isabel , Alhammad Muna
Published: February 2022

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, most universities needed to move to online teaching and learning, in some cases with very limited knowledge or experience in running online programmes. Engaging students online has become an imminent challenge that universities and academics are still trying to address. This paper reports on the findings from the experience of making the transition from an established collaborative learning activity delivered in a face-to-face environment to online collaborative learning supported by Microsoft Teams. Supported by an action research methodology, the paper evaluates this experience by comparing the outcomes of students' learning in the previous face-to-face and the online activities and the suitability of Microsoft Teams as a learning environment for collaborative learning for a postgraduate project management module. This research contributes to the growing knowledge of technology-enhanced learning by shedding light on how Microsoft Teams can support active and online collaborative learning in Higher Education.
The Pandemic's Impact on Underserved Students' Technology Access and Course Progress
Authors: Lebens Mary
Published: February 2022

The pandemic hindered students’ access to technology by exacerbating the digital divide, particularly for those from underserved populations, such as students of color and low-income students. This case study focuses on the unique experiences of information systems students drawn from a population of underserved students, one year after the pandemic’s onset. The study examines whether the students’ perceptions of their access to technology and progress in technology courses is consistent with early literature on the pandemic. Pedagogical suggestions are provided to help faculty mitigate the negative factors that students described as hurting their progress in technology courses. Contrary to the initial literature on the pandemic, the majority of students reported no difficulty accessing technology. Surprisingly, the slight majority of students felt the pandemic had no impact or a positive impact on their technology course progress. The broad implication for the field of technology education is that the digital divide is not necessarily deepening one year into the pandemic.
Sonification as a Tool for Data Analysis
Authors: Casado Johanna , Díaz-Merced Wanda , García Beatriz , Schneps Matthew , Kolemberg Katrien , Rychtarikova Monika , Roozen Nicolaas Bernardus
Published: February 2022

This article presents an evaluation of accessibility, using one of the International Standard Organization guidelines (ISO 9241-171:2008, Guidance on software accessibility) to estimate if the sonification software for astronomical data published before 2017 are designed under a User-Centred Design framework based on the  accessibility. The evaluation was carried out by scientists, degree students and accessibility specialists. The results suggest that some of the current data analysis prototypes used by space scientists and prototypes used for accessibility do not follow user-centric design which may have contributed to partial fulfillment of the ISO accessibility requirements. and show that the text of the ISO standard can be interpreted in different ways according to the experience and approach of each developer. The raining on accessibility and high granularity user testing should be mandatory for computing science professionals and developers. The contact with the end-users must be part and lead the design of the development from the beginning to produce an accessible tool.
Learners' Perceptions of Peer Assessment
Authors: Meletiadou Eleni
Published: February 2022

In the past two decades, several researchers have expressed their concern regarding students’ attitudes towards writing (Hyland, 2018). To address the effects of peer assessment (PA) on 100 young intermediate EFL learners’ writing performance, this study examined whether the use of anonymous reciprocal PA in 4 public secondary schools in Cyprus would result in considerable improvement in students’ motivation towards PA of writing and their willingness to write. The analysis of the data from the pre-PA questionnaires indicated that students’ attitudes were positive before experimenting with PA but improved even more after the implementation. This was also confirmed by the focus group discussions in which shortcomings of PA were also highlighted. Students expressed their wish to use multiple forms of assessment, receive more training and increase their exposure to PA. All in all, students’ positive attitude towards PA seemed to have affected their writing performance and vice versa.
An Investigation of RtI/MTSS Knowledge, Skill, and Confidence Within Teacher Education
Authors: Skaar Nicole R. , Schmitz Stephanie L. , Beckman Nichole
Published: February 2022

Response to Intervention (RtI) and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) are methods for meeting the needs of all students in the United States and other countries throughout the world. The purpose of this study was to assess preservice teachers’ knowledge of and confidence in RtI/MTSS implementation and assess faculty knowledge and integration of this content into the teacher education curriculum. Participants were preservice teachers and faculty members of the same Midwestern University. Implications for in-service training and teacher preparation programs are discussed in light of the findings.
Social Climate and Teacher Professional Development in Tanzania
Authors: Lawrent Godlove
Published: February 2022

This article reports on the findings in relation to the implications of social climate for the professional development of teachers. The study was conducted in the context of the secondary education expansion plan in Tanzania which initiated the construction of new schools within communities. The main purpose of this study was to gain insights into how teachers’ interaction with diverse policy contexts shaped them to grow as teaching professionals. This study was qualitative in nature. Participants were 28 teachers from four community secondary schools. Data were collected by using individual and focus group interviews which were inductively analyzed. Findings identified specific social conditions within and beyond the school that impacted the development of teachers, and in turn, affected student learning achievement. The article suggests that improving the social climate enhances the sustainability of the teaching profession.
Data Analytics in Small and Medium Enterprises (SME)
Authors: Bhardwaj Shikha
Published: February 2022

Data Analytics in small and medium enterprise (SME) is an emerging area of research and practice. Despite of growing importance of SME and increasing research in data analytics, the existing literature lacks an integrated view of the phenomena. To bridge this gap, a systematic literature review of 42 published research studies from peer-reviewed journals from 2010-2021, related to data analytics and SME is performed. After classification, categorisation, and synthesis, four broad themes are addressed namely enabling factors, restraining factors, investing SMEs and performance indicators. Further, research gaps identified thrust research areas and insights for future research directions are presented.
Non-Functional Requirements Analysis Based on Application Reviews in the Android App Market
Authors: Yao Yongming , Jiang Weiyi , Wang Yulin , Song Peng , Wang Bin
Published: February 2022

There are more than 3 million mobile apps in the Android market. The development process of every mobile application is rigorous, and many types of research on application quality requirements are derived, which are highly related to the development of applications. Research shows that user reviews of mobile applications are an unused large database that can provide feedback on user needs. In this article, user comments are automatically classified into non-functional requirements (NFRs) and other types. This paper proposes a loop matching classification technique (Loop Matching Classification). The three classification techniques of LMC, BOW, and TF-IDF were used to classify user comments, and the accuracy, recall rate, and F-measure of the results of the three classification techniques were compared. It was found that the Precision value of the LMC classification technique was 74.2%, the Recall was 82.5% and the F-measure was 78.1%.
Revisiting Applications of Blockchain Technology in Business Ecosystems
Authors: Lokshina Izabella V. , Lanting Cees J. M.
Published: February 2022

In this paper, the authors provide a comprehensive analysis of blockchain technology and its emerging and state-of-the-art applications in business ecosystems. The authors define types of blockchain-enabled applications across various domains and research areas. Additionally, the authors investigate open issues of blockchain technology, identify challenges to be addressed, propose potential solutions, and mark future research directions that are of high relevance and value for both academics and practitioners.
How Does the Banking Business Model Evolve and Integrate in a Platform Ecosystem?
Authors: Memic Elma , Lamest Markus , Muehlenbrock Sven , Ittoo Ashwin
Published: February 2022

The banking environment is changing rapidly, and banks, in order to stay competitive, need to take these changes into consideration. This study focusses on open banking, a phenomenon that has been accentuated by the regulation PSD2. Indeed, the aim is to study the impact of open banking on banks' business models and to explore how this phenomenon led banks to go towards a platform-based business model. The contribution is to suggest a business model based on previous theoretical business models that will suit banks' needs to elaborate their own strategy and way of creating value by considering the recent developments in the banking sector.
Professional Master's Athletic Training Students' Career Influences Part I: Perceptions of Athletic Training
Authors: Nokes Ryan D. , Pitney William A. , Bowman Thomas G. , Nottingham Sara
Published: February 2022

Context

As athletic training education transitions to a professional master's degree, understanding the perceptions professional master's athletic training students have of athletic training is important.

Objective

To examine second-year professional master's students' perceptions of the athletic training profession, a career in the profession, and identify the factors that influence their perceptions.

Design

Convergent mixed methods.

Setting

Online surveys and individual phone interviews.

Patients or Other Participants

A total of 80 second-year professional master's students (63 female, 13 male, 4 no response, age = 24.63 ± 2.29 years), who were enrolled in the final semester of their program in the spring of 2019, completed the online survey. Ten survey respondents completed the follow-up phone interviews.

Data Collection and Analysis

A survey instrument and a semistructured interview guide were developed to answer the research questions. Both were validated externally by 3 independent researchers using a content-validity indexing tool. The data from the survey and interviews were woven together and merged to provide 1 comprehensive results section. Trustworthiness was established using triangulation, member checks, memos, and peer debriefing.

Results

Three higher-order themes emerged from the data: (1) perceptions of the athletic training profession: lack of appreciation and awareness for the profession from others, rewarding profession, and dynamic profession; (2) perceptions of a career in athletic training: low pay, long hours and inconsistent schedules, and inability to have work-life balance; (3) factors influencing perceptions: clinical experiences and interactions with athletic trainers.

Conclusions

Second-year professional master's athletic training students developed positive and negative perceptions about the profession and a career in the profession during their professional education experiences. The factors identified were professional socializing agents and should be considered when designing clinical education experiences.
Patterns of adverse drug reaction reporting in Ethiopia
Authors: Anebo Zelalem Gebretsadik , Abacioglu Nurrettin
Published: February 2022

Objective:

To examine the frequency and profile of spontaneous reports of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) sent to Ethiopia’s pharmacovigilance (PV) database system.

Methods:

The descriptive and retrospective study analysed spontaneous ADR complaints reported to the PV database by healthcare professionals between 2013 and 2018. Spontaneous ADR reports that reached the PV center and met the minimum reporting criteria were identified and assessed in terms of reporting rate, patient characteristics, type of ADRs, suspected drugs, report sources, and reporters’ profession.

Results:

A total of 657 spontaneous ADR reports were filed to the PV center between 2013 and 2018. During the study period, the reporting pattern of ADRs changed dramatically. The number of reports increased from 2013 (n=12) and peaked in 2015 (n=205), and then declined from 2016 to 2018 (n=144, 142 and 65 in 2016, 2017 and 2018, respectively). Females had a higher percentage of reported cases (56.3%) than males (43.7%). The highest number of ADRs was reported in the age categories of 15-64 years (475, 72.3%), followed by 0-14 years (154, 23.4%), and 65 years and above (21, 3.2%). Pharmacists reported the majority of ADRs (81.7%), followed by health officers (7.2%), nurses (5.8%), and physicians (5.2%). Skin and subcutaneous tissue abnormalities were the most commonly reported ADRs. The anatomical therapeutic chemicals code class “anti-infective for systemic use” was the most usually suspected medication. Trimethoprim with sulfamethoxazole as a combination ADRs was the most commonly reported drug that cause ADRs (14.2%).

Conclusions:

The number of ADRs reported in Ethiopia was small and unpredictable compared to developed countries, indicating the performance of PV system and level of awareness of health care professionals towards ADR reporting was not satisfactory. In order to increase the frequency of spontaneous reports, more efficient PV methods and public policies must be implemented.
Prevalence and risks of soil transmitted helminths among Ethiopian school children
Authors: Fenta Abebe , Mesganaw Bewket , Belachew Feven , Teshale Getachew , Abebaw Gashaw , Tesfa Elias , Alemayehu Getaye
Published: February 2022

Objective:

To assess the prevalence and associated factors of soil transmitted helminths (STHs) among Endemata primary school in North West Ethiopia, 2021.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study with 195 school children was conducted from May to July 2021 at Endemata primary school. The study participants were selected by using systematic random sampling technique. Stool samples were processed via direct wet mount and formol-ether concentration techniques. Data was entered by Epi-Dara version 3.1 and data analysis was done using SPSS version 20.0. Variables were considered to be statistically significant if P<0.05 at 95% confidence level.

Results:

The overall prevalence of STHs was 10.8% (95% CI 7.1-16.0). The prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworm and Trichuris trichiura were 5.6% (95% CI 3.1-9.9), 3.1% (95% CI 1.3-6.7) and 2.1% (95% CI 0.6-5.3), respectively. Grade 1-4 students were more likely to get infected with STHs as compared to grade 5-8 students (adjusted OR 4.7, 95% CI 1.3-16.6). Students who did not have latrines at their home were at higher risk to develop STHs infection comparing with those who had latrine at their home (adjusted OR 5.0, 95% CI 1.7-15.2). Similarly, the school children who did not wear shoes were more likely to be infected by STH parasite than those who did it (adjusted OR 6.3, 95% CI 1.9-20.7). The odds of being infected by STH parasites in children who did not trim their fingernails were 4.9 as compared to those who did it (adjusted OR 4.9, 95% CI 1.5-15.7).

Conclusions:

The prevalence of STHs among Endemata primary school children was low. Student grade level, latrine availability, shoes wear and nail status were significantly associated with STHs infection. Therefore, we recommend policy makers and stakeholders to follow the integration of deworming with water, hygiene and sanitation as well as the consistent health education of school children to control and prevent STH infections.
Hydroxytyrosol [2-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)-Ethanol], a Natural Phenolic Compound Found in the Olive, Alters Ca2+ Signaling and Viability in Human HepG2 Hepatoma Cells
Authors: Cheng He-Hsiung , Liao Wei-Chuan , Lin Rong-An , Chen I-Shu , Wang Jue-Long , Chien Jau-Min , Kuo Chun-Chi , Hao Lyh-Jyh , Chou Chiang-Ting , Jan Chung-Ren
Published: February 2022

Hepatotoma is the leading type of primary liver cancer in adults and third cause of death in the world. Hydroxytyrosol is a natural phenol existing in olive (Olea europaea L.). Hydroxytyrosol is the chief ingredient of olive oil, which was early deemed to be the most robust antioxidant in olive oil. Hydroxytyrosol is known to inhibit various types of cancer by different methods. This study was aimed to delineate the action of hydroxytyrosol on viability and [Ca2+]i in HepG2 hepatoma cells. Fura-2 was used to detect [Ca2+]i, and WST-1 assays were applied to explore cell cytotoxicity. Hydroxytyrosol elicited [Ca2+]i raises. Eliminating external Ca2+ diminished the Ca2+ signal by 30%. Hydroxytyrosol-evoked Ca2+ influx was diminished by 20% by three inhibitors of store-operated Ca2+ channels and by a protein kinase C activator and an inhibitor. In the absence of Ca2+, thapsigargin eradicated hydroxytyrosol-provoked [Ca2+]i raises. Suppression of phospholipase C (PLC) with U73122, a PLC inhibitor, did not inhibit hydroxytyrosol-elicited [Ca2+]i raises. Hydroxytyrosol reduced cell viability. This cytotoxic action was not reversed by preincubation with BAPTA/AM, a cytosolic Ca2+ binder. In sum, in HepG2 hepatoma cells, hydroxytyrosol elicited [Ca2+]i raises by provoking PLC-unrelated discharge of Ca2+ from ER and Ca2+ influx through PKC-sensitive store-operated Ca2+ entry. In addition, hydroxytyrosol elicited Ca2+-dissociated cytotoxicity.
Retinal and choroidal vascular changes in newly diagnosed celiac disease: An optical coherence tomography angiography study
Authors: Gumus Meltem , Eker Serhat , Karakucuk Yalcın , Ergani Anna Carina , Emiroglu Halil Haldun
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

To investigate the retinal and choroidal microcirculation changes in celiac disease (CD) patients via optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A).

Methods:

This cross-sectional study included 44 pediatric patients with newly diagnosed CD and 44 healthy pediatric subjects. The vascular densities (VD) of the superficial, deep, and choriocapillar plexuses (VDs, VDd, and VDcc, respectively) (%), the superficial and deep foveal avascular zones (FAZs and FAZd) (%), the central macular thickness (CMT) (mm), and the subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) (mm) were measured with swept-source OCT-A in addition to a complete ophthalmological examination.

Results:

Mean ages of the CD patients and the healthy participants were 12.02 ± 2.9 and 13.6 ± 2.3 years, respectively. The central sectors of the VDs and VDd measurements were found to be significantly higher in the study group compared to the control group (p = 0.006; P = 0.001, respectively), and the temporal and nasal values of the VDcc measurements were significantly lower in the study group than in the control group (p < 0.05 for both values). CMT and FAZ metrics did not differ between the groups (p > 0.05). SFCT was significantly reduced (p = 0.001), and choroidal thinning was more considerable in female CD patients (p = 0.045).

Conclusion:

CD seems to affect macular and choroidal microcirculation. The reduced choriocapillaris plexus parameters and choroidal thickness may provide disease activity information.
Analysis of postoperative visual and surgical outcome following surgery for absorbed cataract in pediatric age group and the intraoperative difficulties
Authors: Kavitha V , Heralgi Mallikarjun M , Aafreen Saba
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

To analyze the postoperative visual and surgical outcomes following surgery for pediatric-absorbed cataracts and intraoperative difficulties.

Methods:

This prospective longitudinal study included 43 eyes (30 children) with absorbed cataracts aged between 6 months and 18 years (either sex). All children underwent best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), anterior and posterior segment evaluation, rubella titer estimation, intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation, superior small incision cataract surgery with or without posterior capsulotomy/anterior vitrectomy/IOL implantation under general anesthesia, visual rehabilitation, and were followed up for 1 year.

Results:

The mean age was 7.89 ± 4.84 years. Preoperative BCVA distance: 39 eyes had either perception of light (PL) or counting finger close to face (CFCF); near BCVA: all eyes had either PL or N36. Postoperative (12 months) distant BCVA: a majority of the eyes (27) had 6/60–1/60, 11 eyes had 6/18–6/36; near: N18 in 19 eyes, N6 in 7 eyes. Anterior continuous curvilinear capsulorrhexis (ACCC) was possible in eight eyes. Cortical aspiration was difficult in 16 eyes (peripheral calcified ring). A majority (32 eyes) underwent in the sulcus implantation (in-the-bag: eight eyes); two eyes: no IOL, one eye: secondary IOL. Eleven eyes had early postoperative inflammation. At 12 months, one eye underwent membranectomy for visual axis opacification and 38 eyes had well-centered IOLs.

Conclusion:

Surgery in absorbed cataracts is challenging because of the anatomic disorganization of the absorbed lens. By adopting appropriate surgical methods and good visual rehabilitation, one can achieve satisfactory surgical and visual outcomes, highlighting the need for surgical intervention.
Multilayered inverted internal limiting membrane flap technique versus standard internal limiting membrane peeling for large macular holes: A comparative study
Authors: Agrawal Vishal , Jindal Khushbu , Dhakad Yogendra , Rathore Priyanka , Khilnani Kamlesh
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

To evaluate the outcome of vitrectomy with multilayered inverted internal limiting membrane flap technique (ML-IILM) versus vitrectomy with standard ILM peeling for large macular holes in terms of visual acuity and anatomical closure.

Methods:

A hospital-based, prospective, randomized, interventional study was conducted during three calendar years with a total 150 eyes (75 in each group) in two groups—vitrectomy with ILM peeling (Group A) and vitrectomy with ML-IILM flap technique (Group B) after informed consent of study participants who met the inclusion criteria.

Results:

The mean minimum and maximum diameter of macular hole did not differ statistically in both the groups. Macular hole index had no significant difference between both groups Pre-operative visual acuity was not statistically significantly different between the two groups. During follow-up, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months was significantly better in Group B (0.12 ± 0.07 at 1 month, 0.14 ± 0.10 at 3 months, 0.18 ± 0.11 at 6 months, and 0.19 ± 0.12 at 12 months) compared to Group A (0.20 ± 0.11 at 1 month, 0.22 ± 0.13 at 3 months, 0.30 ± 0.12 at 6 months, and 0.31 ± 0.14 at 12 months) (P = 0.001 for each). Type 1 anatomical closure (flattening of cuff and opposition of edges of hole) was achieved in 78.66% (59/75) cases in Group A and 93.33% (70/75) cases in Group B (P 0.0016).

Conclusion:

Vitrectomy with multilayered inverted ILM flap technique had significantly higher anatomical closure and better visual outcome than vitrectomy with standard ILM peeling.
Tele-rehabilitation for persons with vision impairment during COVID-19: Experiences and lessons learned
Authors: Christy Beula , Mahalakshmi Mojjada , Aishwarya T V , Jayaraman Deiva , Das Antony V , Rani Padmaja K
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

The COVID-19 pandemic imposed challenges to access rehabilitation intervention to individuals with visual impairment, thereby increasing their disability effects. This study explored the viability maintaining the continuum of care through telerehabilitation.

Methods:

This study is a retrospective analysis of individuals with vision impairment who underwent telerehabilitation at the center of excellence in eye care at Hyderabad, Telangana, India, between April and September 2020. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health framework was followed to provide services such as counseling for mental well-being, information and resources, educational interventions, Assistive Technology programs, therapeutic interventions for children with multiple disabilities, access to digital audio books and rehabilitation helpline. A team of professionals involved in the service care. Phone and what’s app calls were used to facilitate the training. The duration and the number of training sessions were individual need-based with an average of 45 minutes per session and 175 training sessions.

Results:

Three hundred and fifty individuals and their families benefited. The service include early intervention (n = 129), and low vision care (n = 176) inclusive of computer training (n = 53), soft skills (n = 53), digital books (n = 55). Nearly two-thirds of the participants were male (n = 205).

Conclusion:

Evidence from this study suggests telerehabilitation as a successful model of care. A well-planned telerehabilitation approach can expand the scope of reaching the visually impaired from geographically isolated areas where scarcity of service providers and service centers.
Evidence of dengue virus in eviscerated specimens of panophthalmitis secondary to dengue fever: A possible cause-effect phenomenon
Authors: Dave Tarjani V , Sharma Savitri , Lakshmi Vemu , Rangaiahgari Ashok , Murthy Somasheila I , Ali Mohammad J , Dave Vivek P , Pappuru Rajeev R
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

To report a retrospective series of three cases of infectious panophthalmitis post-dengue fever with ex vivo confirmation of dengue virus ribonucleic acid (RNA) in the tissues of the eye.

Methods:

Four eyes of three patients, who were diagnosed with panophthalmitis following dengue fever and who underwent evisceration, were included. All demographic and clinical data were recorded. The eviscerated samples were subjected to direct microscopy, culture for bacteria, fungi, and parasites, and molecular virology (dengue virus [DENV] NS1-specific reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) assay).

Results:

The time from the development of dengue fever to the occurrence of ocular symptoms was 4.33 ± 1.15 (median 5) days. DENV NS1 RNA, suggestive of the presence of the dengue virus, was confirmed in all evisceration specimens (uveal tissue, cornea). All the patients recovered completely from dengue fever and on follow-up had healthy eviscerated sockets.

Conclusion:

Demonstration of the DENV RNA in the eviscerated specimens of panophthalmitis following dengue fever implicates the DENV in the pathophysiology of the ocular infection.
Clinical patterns of congenital ocular anomalies in the pediatric age group (0 to 5 years) and its association with various demographic parameters
Authors: Dash Pooja , Rout Jagadish P , Panigrahi Pradeep K
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

Congenital ocular anomalies are rare but important cause of childhood blindness. This study aimed to observe the clinical patterns of congenital ocular anomalies in the pediatric age group (0 to 5 years) and its association with various demographic parameters.

Methods:

Hospital-based cross-sectional study done on all pediatric patients in the 0-to-5-year age group presenting with congenital ocular anomalies to the Ophthalmology department of a tertiary care hospital in Eastern India between October 2018 and October 2020. Thorough clinical history was obtained, and comprehensive ocular examination was done in each case.

Results:

A total of 5686 patients in the 0 to 5 years age group attended the eye OPD during the study period. Congenital ocular anomalies were seen in 140 patients. The prevalence of ocular anomalies was 2.46%. Average age of patients was 3.32 ± 1.42 years. There were 74 (52.9%) males and 66 (47.1%) females. Unilateral and bilateral involvement was seen in 100 (71.45%) and 40 (28.6%) cases, respectively. Antenatal period was uneventful in 92.14% cases. Decreased vision was the most common presentation (40%). Congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction was the most common anomaly seen in 29 (20.71%) cases followed by congenital cataract in 21 (15%) cases.

Conclusion:

Few of the congenital ocular anomalies can be prevented by increasing community awareness. Findings of the study can act as a reference guide for clinicians and health professionals for counseling and health planning.
Sutureless and glue-free limbal-conjunctival autograft in primary and recurrent pterygium: A pilot study
Authors: Sharma Vikas , Tinna Ankuj , Singh Anuradha , Singh Atul K , Ambiya Vikas
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

To evaluate and analyze the outcomes of sutureless and glue-free limbal-conjunctival autografting in cases of primary as well as recurrent pterygium.

Methods:

This prospective interventional study was carried out between February 2019 and February 2020 at a tertiary care hospital in North India. A total of 70 patients with pterygium underwent sutureless and glue-free limbal-conjunctival autograft. The patients were divided into two groups: group 1 patients with primary pterygium (n = 45), group 2 patients with recurrent pterygium (n = 25). The patients were followed up till 12 months postoperatively.

Results:

The mean age of the patients in group 1 and group 2 was 37.04 ± 8.69 years and 32.52 ± 6.49 years, respectively (P = 0.04). Postoperatively, no recurrence was recorded in group 1. Recurrence was noticed in two patients (8%) of group 2. The BCVA changed from 78.73 ± 9.86 letters to 80.15 ± 7.29 letters (P = 0.45) and from 79.6 ± 6.44 letters to 79.8 ± 5.86 letters (P = 0.45) in group 1 and group 2, respectively. Graft edema was found in seven (15.55%) cases of group 1 and four (16%) cases of group 2. Graft retraction was found in two (4.44%) cases of group 1 and three (12%) cases of group 2.

Conclusion:

Sutureless and a glue-free limbal-conjunctival autograft is a safe and effective treatment option for primary as well as recurrent pterygium.
Comparative evaluation of modified crater (endonucleation) chop and conventional crater chop techniques during phacoemulsification of hard nuclear cataracts: A randomized study
Authors: Upadhyay Sukriti , Sharma Pankaj , Chouhan Jugal Kishore , Goyal Rajesh
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

To compare the clinical outcomes of endonucleation chop (EC) versus conventional crater (CC) chop techniques in phacoemulsification of hard nuclear cataracts.

Methods:

In this Prospective, longitudinal, randomized controlled study with double-blinding. Hundred consecutive eyes with uncomplicated cataracts (nucleus grades 3 and 4) were equally divided into Group A (EC) and Group B (CC). Intraoperative effective phacoemulsification time (EPT) and balanced salt solution (BSS) volume used was noted. Postoperative central corneal thickness (CCT), endothelial cell density (ECD), uncorrected Visual Acuity (UCVA), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and IOP were recorded at days 1, 7, 30, and 90 postoperatively. The Chi-square test (categorical data), Mann–Whitney U test, and t-tests for other parameters were done.

Results:

The mean EPT in Groups A and B were 6.6 and 14.25 s, respectively (P < 0.001). The BSS volume used was 105.9 and 221.7 mL, respectively (P < 0.001). At 3 months, the ECD loss was 4.35 and 8.6%, respectively (P = 0.025). The-first day CCT was significantly increased in Group B but was the same in both groups at 3 months. A significant improvement in BCVA was noted in both groups. This new technique significantly reduces EPT, the BSS used, and ECD loss.

Conclusion:

Compared with the CC chop technique, the EC technique for phacoemulsification of hard nuclear cataracts conserved phacoemulsification energy and minimized exposure to the intraocular irrigating solution, provided a significant reduction in corneal endothelial damage, and led to faster visual rehabilitation.
Unilateral double optic nerve head pits with foveo-schisis detachment treated by modified internal limiting membrane peeling technique
Authors: Kumar Kshitiz , Bhattacharya Debashish
Published: February 2022

A 44-year-old female with a vision of 10/200 in the right eye had double pits in the temporal segment of the optic disc with serous macular detachment. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) confirmed serous retinal detachment, an outer layer hole, and double optic disc pits. The patient underwent pars plana vitrectomy with modified ILM flap surgery involving fovea-sparing internal limiting membrane peeling (FSIP) technique with inverted ILM flap tucking with gas tamponade. Post surgery, the communications between perineural and intraretinal spaces were obliterated with flaps of ILM covering the pits, with reduced serous macular detachment and BCVA of 20/120. FSIP with inverted internal limiting membrane flap tuck can be an effective technique to manage rare cases of double ODP-M.
Understanding the science of fungal endophthalmitis - AIOS 2021 Sengamedu Srinivas Badrinath Endowment Lecture
Authors: Das Taraprasad , Joseph Joveeta , Jakati Saumya , Sharma Savitri , Velpandian Thirumurthy , Padhy Srikant K , Das Vipin A , Shivaji Sisinthy , Nayak Sameera , Behera Umesh C , Mishra Dilip K , Gandhi Jaishree , Dave Vivek P , Pathengay Avinash
Published: February 2022

Fungal endophthalmitis is a potentially blinding condition. It is more often reported from Asia, including India. The incidence is lower than bacterial endophthalmitis. But it is relatively more challenging to treat than bacterial endophthalmitis. Many eyes may need therapeutic keratoplasty and/or evisceration. The current mainstays of treatment are vitrectomy irrespective of the presenting vision, intravitreal antifungal agents, and systemic therapy; additionally, the patients could require prolonged treatment with repeat vitreous surgeries and intravitreal injections. Difficulty in clinical diagnosis, delay in microbiological culture, and limited options of antifungal drugs make the treatment more difficult and less rewarding. Three common fungi causing endophthalmitis are Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Candida. The former two are molds, often identified in exogenous endophthalmitis, postoperative and traumatic; the latter is yeast and is more often identified in endogenous endophthalmitis. A faster diagnosis with newer molecular microbiological technologies might help institute treatment earlier than it is currently possible. A target trial using big data from different regions of the world might emulate a randomized clinical trial to design a definite treatment strategy. Given fewer antifungal drugs, one must be mindful of antifungal stewardship to prevent resistance to the existing drugs.
A clinico-pathological study of COVID-19 associated rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis
Authors: Mani Senthilkumar , Thirunavukkarasu Anbuselvi
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

Known predisposing factors for mucormycosis are neutropenia and diabetes. Though COVID-19 is associated with hyperinflammatory response, a high surge in rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) cases was observed during the second wave. The histopathological features reflect the background pathogenesis. This study analyzes the histopathological features and clinical presentation of COVID-19-associated ROCM.

Methods:

In this retrospective observational study, the clinical details of 89 proven ROCM patients treated during May–July 2021 were collected from the case records. Histopathological features were correlated with clinical staging groups and outcomes. The mean neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) of clinical and outcome groups were compared.

Results:

The mean age was 54.71 ± 11.03 years, with male patients constituting a majority (78.7%). Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus was noted in 70.8% of patients, and 3.4% had normal range of blood sugar. The mean blood sugar was 298.08 ± 99.51 mg/dL. The mean duration of onset of symptoms of mucormycosis from the diagnosis of COVID-19 was 17.36 ± 7.392 (3–45) days. Poor outcome with disease progression or death occurred in 21.3% of patients. Clinical group II patients (44.9%) with ROCM stages 3c and above had poor outcomes (P = 0.005). Histopathological analysis showed minimal inflammation in 25.8%, neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) in 75.3%, and angio-invasion in 28.1% of patients. Minimal inflammation was associated with clinical group II (P = 0.004) and poor outcome (P = 0.001). Angio-invasion correlated with poor outcome (P = 0.007). Patients with severe clinical group and poor outcome had higher mean NLR with P = 0.017 and P = 0.007, respectively.

Conclusion:

Vision loss and cerebral involvement had poor outcomes. The histopathologic features such as inflammation and angio-invasion along with NLR aid as prognostic indicators in the management of ROCM. The role of NET in the pathogenesis of COVID-19-associated ROCM needs further studies.