bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Faire place nette pour la transformation fromagère
Authors: Lagrola Mathilde
Published: June 2024

Les travaux sur la transformation du lait cru ont rendu compte de la diversité des savoirs et des pratiques des fromagers et fromagères pour entretenir un environnement microbien dans les lieux et sur les objets de la fabrication. Cet article s’intéresse aux pratiques d’« hygiène » dans la transformation fromagère fermière en Auvergne et en Ariège. Il décrit la séquence temporelle entre ces actions et celles de manipulation de la matière, et comment par une conscience gestuelle, ces pratiques s’efforcent d’éviter les contaminations par des microorganismes indésirables. L’article pointe ainsi comment ces préparations se situent dans un continuum avec les actions de fabrication, mais nécessitent cependant l’incorporation de savoirs spécifiques. Il montre enfin comment, par une préparation de l’espace fondée sur la distinction entre des lieux et des objets « propres » et d’autres « sales », les activités de nettoyage et de rangement participent à orienter le travail avec les microorganismes.
Sur la piste des préparations
Authors: Riom Loïc , Tanferri Mylène
Published: June 2024

Cet article introductif vise à montrer que suivre la piste des préparations à l’action permet de prolonger et d’enrichir conceptuellement et empiriquement tant les théories de l'action que l’anthropologie des connaissances. Dans un premier temps, nous distinguons les préparations à l’action de l’action planifiée. Pour ce faire, nous inscrivons notre intérêt pour les préparations à la suite les travaux qui, de la sociologie du travail à l’étude des organisations, ont étudié les plans, les prescriptions et la constitution d’habitudes. Dans un deuxième temps, nous esquissons à partir des neuf articles qui composent ce dossier cinq axes de réflexion : les préparations comme embarquement sur le terrain ; le rapport à l’imprévu ; les savoirs des préparations ; les dispositifs des préparations ; et les collectifs que les préparations contribuent à (trans)former.
Tras la pista de la preparación
Authors: Riom Loïc , Tanferri Mylène
Published: June 2024

El presente artículo introductorio tiene como objetivo evidenciar cómo el hecho de seguir la pista de la preparación para la acción extiende y enriquece, conceptual y empíricamente, tanto las teorías de la acción como la antropología del conocimiento. Inicialmente, distinguimos la preparación para la acción de la acción planificada. Para ello, situamos nuestro interés en las preparaciones dentro de las investigaciones que, desde la sociología del trabajo hasta el estudio de las organizaciones, se han centrado en planes, prescripciones y formación de hábitos. En segundo lugar, esbozamos, basándonos en los nueve artículos que componen este dossier, cinco ejes de reflexión: embarcar en el campo etnográfico mediante las preparaciones; la relación con lo imprevisto; los saberes de las preparaciones; los mecanismos preparatorios; y la consistencia colectiva de las preparaciones.
Explorer les politiques de la langue et de l’infrastructure
Authors: Rodriguez Medina Leandro , Dumoulin Kervran David
Published: June 2024

L’analyse des pratiques de travail des revues est fondamentale pour comprendre comment fonctionne le monde académique, à l’heure où l’impact facteur est devenu un signe majeur de qualité de la recherche. La revue d’études des sciences Tapuya est née en 2016 en Amérique latine, avec la particularité de publier des articles en anglais afin de mieux faire connaitre les recherches de ce continent. Cet entretien avec le fondateur et ancien rédacteur en chef Leandro Rodriguez Medina, permet de d’analyser en détail la dimension politique des choix financiers, technologiques, ou concernant le processus d’évaluation. La première partie revient sur l’idée d’origine et sur le modèle de la revue afin de mettre à jour comment il est possible de jouer avec l’influence anglaise/nord-américaine. La seconde partie explore les différentes implications du choix de l’anglais, comme langue de publication, d’évaluation, ou de travail au sein de la revue. La troisième partie décortique les différentes étapes du travail sur les articles soumis, pour montrer comment le processus de publication pourrait corriger plutôt que reproduire l’hégémonie culturelle anglophone.
Si ce n'est pas nous, alors qui ? Si ce n'est pas maintenant, ce sera quand ?
Authors: Bieszczad Sarah Rose , Dix Guus , Smit Jorrit
Published: June 2024

L’article part d’un appel de doctorant·es et chercheur·euses concernant les STS et l'activisme. Il s’efforce de faire avancer la discussion et questionne la tendance des collègues à donner la priorité aux débats théoriques plutôt qu'à l'action. En revenant sur les STS Handbooks, il explore ensuite le développement historique des STS, en soulignant les changements dans la perception de l'activisme au sein du domaine. Il aborde l'évolution de la relation entre le monde universitaire et l'activisme au sein des STS, en présentant quatre positions pour le débat et l'action futurs : étudier l'activisme dans le cadre des STS, utiliser les STS pour soutenir l'activisme, considérer les STS comme de l'activisme, et réfléchir à l'intersection des STS et de l'activisme. En fin de compte, le texte encourage le renouvellement du dialogue et de l'action au sein de la communauté STS en ce qui concerne l'activisme, en particulier en réponse aux défis contemporains tels que le changement climatique et l'injustice sociale.
Ensino laico e o catolicismo
Authors: Silva Wilney Fernando
Published: June 2024

Este trabalho analisou a criação da associação leiga Apostolado da Oração Sagrado Coração de Jesus, utilizada estrategicamente pela Igreja Católica, entre os anos de 1930 e 1950, na cidade de Porteirinha (Minas Gerais), para ampliar sua influência nos espaços escolares e extraescolares. Tendo como método uma pesquisa bibliográfica e documental, o texto disserta sobre como o legado católico penetrou os poros culturais da cidade por meio da associação religiosa e como se deu o investimento na composição maquínica do poder do Estado. Finalmente, ao levantar as fontes, foi possível concluir que, nesse panorama, a Igreja dialogava com os grupos políticos que objetivavam o mesmo ordenamento social. Ao Apostolado da Oração, em especial, cabia coroar a ritualização da obediência, da vida familiar cristã disciplinada, da ordem social e política, da moralização dos costumes e dos sacramentos da Igreja Católica.
Cryptosporidium infections in Sri Lanka: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fareed F. , Thilakarathna P. T. A. , Karunaratne S. H. P. P. , Noordeen F.
Published: June 2024

Cryptosporidium is a protozoan parasite that causes gastroenteritis in both humans and animals. Cryptosporidium infections in humans and animals have been reported from many parts of Sri Lanka. During the present study, five international electronic databases were extensively searched for peer-reviewed research papers published on the prevalence of Cryptosporidium infections and their occurrence in probable sources in Sri Lanka, within the time frame from 1987 to 2023. Collected information revealed that Cryptosporidium oocysts are more commonly found in surface water compared to well water, and shallow wells have a higher occurrence than deep wells. Contamination of river water with Cryptosporidium is mainly from the faecal matter coming from various domestic, agricultural and wildlife animal species. In Sri Lanka, Cryptosporidium infections in captive non-human primates is possibly due to contaminated food and human interaction. In wild animals, infections are more common in species that feed on the ground, suggesting contaminated soil and water as the source of infection. Most of the infected animals are asymptomatic, and many had co-infections with other enteric parasites. Molecular analysis of Cryptosporidium samples from infected primates revealed the presence of four major clades of C. parvum, with some isolates closely related to zoonotic C. parvum genotypes. Information on the habitats of the infected primates suggests that livestock is the primary source of infection. Several studies have been conducted to investigate the prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in various livestock animals, particularly in goats, cattle, buffaloes, and swine in Sri Lanka. These studies reveal high prevalence of asymptomatic Cryptosporidium infection in goats and the potential for the transmission of zoonotic C. parvum from goats, cattle and buffaloes to humans. Molecular epidemiological analysis identified new genotypes of Cryptosporidium in domestic bovids (cattle and water buffalo), with no evidence of the commonly reported zoonotic species C. parvum. Waterborne transmission is the most common mode of infection of Cryptosporidium that affect both humans and animals. Studies conducted in human populations are primarily based in hospitals and pre-schools, and conclude that Cryptosporidium infections are a common cause of diarrhoea in children under the age of five. In conclusion, Cryptosporidium infections occur in different species of animals and humans in Sri Lanka and the oocysts have been detected in surface water, which might be an important source of infection for animals and humans in the country.
Outcome of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty with intraoperative Descemet membrane perforation
Authors: Seifelnasr Mohamed , Elmassry Ahmed , Ghaith Alaa A. , Goweida Mohamed B.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study is to report the outcome of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) with intraoperative Descemet membrane (DM) perforation.

Patients and methods

A retrospective case series of all DALK cases performed from October 2015 to October 2021 at Alexandria Main University Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt, with and without intraoperative DM perforation was evaluated. The study included 110 eyes of 108 patients who met the inclusion criteria, had complete records, and at least 12 months of follow-up. They were further divided into four groups; DALK with intact DM, DALK with DM microperforation, DALK with DM macroperforation, and DALK converted to penetrating keratoplasty (PK). The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), graft rejection, endothelial cell (EC) density, and complications were compared between the four groups.

Results

The most common surgical step during which DM perforation occurred was deep lamellar dissection (41 cases, 70.7%). At 12-month postoperatively, there was no statistically significant difference (P=0.087) in BCVA between the four studied groups (mean=0.33±0.19, 0.39±0.23, 0.45±0.39, and 0.32±0.34 LogMAR, respectively). The DALK groups had significantly less rate of graft rejection (P=0.009) and complications (P=0.006) compared to the PK group. The EC density was statistically significantly higher in the eyes with intact DM compared to the eyes with DM perforation (P<0.001) and to the eyes converted to PK (P<0.001). Interestingly, there was no statistically significant difference between the PK group and the DM macroperforation group in the EC density (P=0.243).

Conclusion

DALK, with or without DM perforation, has equivalent visual outcome, less graft rejection, and less complications compared to the cases converted to PK. The EC density in DALK with intact DM or DM microperforation was significantly higher than in DALK with DM macroperforation and DALK converted to PK.
Serum androgen level in association with dry eye in elderly male and postmenopausal female patients
Authors: Siam Sara M.I. , Abousaif Walid S. , Khashaba Rana A. , Gad Elham A.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the association between objective and subjective indicators of dry eye syndrome (DES) and androgen level in elderly patients.

Patients and methods

This is a comparative cross-sectional study that included 80 Egyptian patients with DES. They were divided into two groups: Group A which consisted of 40 postmenopausal females and elderly males, and Group B which included 40 males and females under the age of 40 years. Each patient provided a medical history. The dry eye symptoms were assessed using the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, which inquired about the presence, intensity, and frequency of symptoms of DES. Additionally, the tear film break-up time (TBUT) and Schirmer’s test were conducted. Serum androgen levels were measured using the ELISA test.

Results

The serum androgen was significantly lower in group A (12.6±8.19 ng/dl) than in group B (24±4.44 ng/dl), (P<0.001). There was a strong significant negative correlation between androgen level and age (r=−0.60, P<0.001). In addition, there was a significant positive correlation between the TBUT and Schirmer’s test values and the amount of testosterone (T) (r=0.62, P<0.001 and r=1.0, P<0.001, respectively). The Schirmer’s test was significantly lower in postmenopausal female patients compared to male patients (mean=10.21±1.05 mm versus 12.46±1.13 mm, respectively, P<0.001).

Conclusion

The serum androgen level was significantly lower in postmenopausal females and elderly males with DES compared to males and females under the age of 40 years, with a significant negative correlation between androgen level and age. Moreover, the TBUT and Schirmer’s test showed a significant positive association with T level. The Schirmer’s test results were significantly lower in postmenopausal females compared to males.
Evaluation of endolight-assisted phacoemulsification in cataract with absent red reflex
Authors: Elkhawaga Mohamed , Elbaha Samir
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of cataract extraction in eyes with absent red reflex using anterior chamber endolight.

Patients and methods

This is a prospective interventional case series study that was performed on 32 eyes of 32 patients with cataract associated with absent red reflex. Phacovitrectomy was performed in all patients. An anterior chamber endolight, introduced through a paracentesis, was used to enhance the phacoemulsification technique. The effectiveness of the technique in facilitating the visualization of the lens structures during the procedure and in enhancing the easiness of the operation as well as the complications related to this technique were evaluated. In addition, the improvement in visual acuity in these patients after surgery was evaluated.

Results

No complications were reported during any of the operations. The endolight promptly enhanced the visualization of the lens structures especially the posterior capsule. The mean best corrected visual acuity significantly improved from 2±0.31 LogMAR preoperatively to 0.38±0.17 postoperatively after combined phacovitrectomy (P<0.001).

Conclusion

The endolight aided in improving the safety profile of phacoemulsification in cataract with absent red reflex by increasing the visibility of anterior chamber structures during the procedure.
Evaluation of the effect of umbilical cord blood serum therapy in resistant infected corneal ulcer
Authors: Elsawy Mahgoub H. , Hasby Hesham A. , Khater Mohammad M. , Ghoneim Ahmed M.
Published: June 2024

Background

Corneal wound healing involves several complex pathways that can be targeted by drugs with varying mechanisms of action. Infected corneal ulcers represent a special challenging situation facing ophthalmologists due to resistance to treatment and visual impairing complications.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of umbilical cord blood serum (CBS) as an adjunctive therapy for resistant infected corneal ulcers.

Patients and methods

This prospective cohort study included 40 eyes having infected corneal ulcer resistant to specific medical treatment for 2 weeks. The patients were recruited from the Cornea Unit at Tanta University Hospital, Tanta, Egypt. They were divided into two groups, 20 cases each. Group A cases were treated with umbilical CBS as an adjunctive therapy together with medical treatment based on culture and sensitivity testing, while group B cases continued the conventional medical treatment only till the complete healing was achieved. The results of the two groups were compared regarding the duration of healing and best-corrected visual acuity improvement.

Results

Visual acuity improvement was achieved with one or more line gain in 14 (70%) cases in group A compared to 6 (30%) cases in group B, with a statistically significant difference (P = 0.008). Healing was achieved in 16 (80%) cases of group A in 2–4 weeks compared to 14 (70%) cases of group B that achieved healing in a longer duration of 3–6 weeks, with a statistically significant difference (P = 0.001). Amniotic membrane transplantation AMT was required in 4 (20%) cases in group A due to thinning compared to 6 (30%) cases in group B.

Conclusion

Umbilical CBS was safe and effective when applied to the cornea as an adjunctive therapy in cases of resistant infected corneal ulcers where it accelerated healing with better visual outcome results.
Intraocular pressure changes following small-incision cataract surgeries in a tertiary care center: a prospective study
Authors: Varghese Leena M. , Hegde Vidya , Lukose Sumi
Published: June 2024

Aim

This study aims to identify the pattern of intraocular pressure (IOP) changes after uneventful small-incision cataract surgery (SICS) in previously normotensive eyes, to know the cause for these postoperative changes, and to correlate the preoperative anterior chamber depth (ACD) to the postoperative IOP change.

Patients and methods

A prospective study was conducted at Yenepoya Medical College, Mangalore, India on 87 non-glaucomatous eyes that underwent an uneventful SICS with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation. The IOP was measured preoperatively and postoperatively on days 1, 3, and weeks 1, 3, and 6. We tried to identify the cause of the IOP change. The preoperative and postoperative ACD change was also noted and correlated with the IOP change.

Results

The mean preoperative IOP was 14±1.81 mm Hg. On the first postoperative day (POD-1), 54% of the eyes showed a statistically significant rise in IOP (mean IOP=17.03±7.17 mm Hg, P=0.0002), and 28% showed a mean fall in IOP of 9.28 mm Hg. On the third postoperative day (POD-3), the IOP showed a statistically significant rise (14.82±3.93 mm Hg, P=0.028) compared with the preoperative value. At the end of the first postoperative week (POW-1), the IOP showed a statistically nonsignificant rise (P=0.66). By the third postoperative week (POW-3), the IOP decreased to 13.82±2.83 mm Hg, with a statistically nonsignificant difference compared with the preoperative IOP (P=0.45). However, there was a statistically significant decrease in the IOP (P=0.0001) in the sixth postoperative week (POW-6). Postoperatively, there was a statistically significant increase in ACD from 3.01±0.31 to 3.23±0.36 mm (P=0.0001) by the POW-3. The preoperative ACD showed a statistically significant moderate negative correlation with late postoperative IOP (r=−0.7394, P<0.0001).

Conclusion

After SICS, at the end of 6 weeks, there was a statistically significant decrease in the mean IOP with an increase in the ACD. A moderate negative correlation existed between the preoperative ACD and late postoperative IOP. It was found that 2.3% of the eyes were steroid responders and showed a rise in IOP at POW-3.
Recent modified technique for levator muscle tucking in blepharoptosis surgery
Authors: ElSamkary Mahmoud A. , Roshdy Maged M. , Karim Marwa A.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study is to introduce a new modification on the classic technique of levator muscle tucking for correction of mild to moderate blepharoptosis and to evaluate its functional and aesthetic outcome.

Patients and methods

This is a tertiary-center study that included 180 patients with mild to moderate ptosis with good levator function (≥8 mm) according to Beard’s classification. Patients with severe congenital, recurrent, mechanical, traumatic ptosis, third nerve palsy, Marcus–Gunn jaw winking syndrome, absent Bell’s phenomenon, or associated ophthalmoplegia were excluded. A recently introduced resection tucking procedure with a spindle excision of the levator aponeurosis was performed. The procedure outcome was assessed functionally by measuring the distance between the upper lid margin and the superior limbus in bilateral cases and accordingly they were classified as very good (2 mm), good (2–4 mm), and poor (5 mm) as well as comparing the preoperative to the postoperative margin reflex distance (MRD1) in unilateral cases. Assessing the aesthetic outcome was done by measuring the eyelid height symmetry, presence of lid crease, lid contour, and patients’ postoperative satisfaction.

Results

The success rate of the procedure was 92.1% [very good (77.7%) and good (14.4%), P < 0.0001]. The MRD1 improved significantly from a preoperative value of 3.28±0.44 mm to 4.44±0.57 mm postoperatively (P < 0.0001). Regarding the aesthetic outcome, symmetrical lid height was achieved in 86.1% of the unilateral cases and in 84% of the bilateral cases, while symmetry of the lid crease was reported in 88.8% of the cases and regularity of the lid contour in 91.6% of the cases. Postoperative patients’ satisfaction was reported by 83% of the patients. The time of procedure was 27.4±4.6 min/eye.

Conclusion

This modified technique of levator tucking was performed in a short time and proved to be an effective technique, with minimal complications and high aesthetic satisfaction outcome.
Evaluation of Optic disc vascular density in high myopia with optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Mahmoud Doaa A. , Mansour Mona N. , Kamel Rehab M. , Mohamed Sanaa A.
Published: June 2024

Aim

This study aimed to investigate the correlation between the optic nerve (ON) vascular density (VD) and myopia severity as estimated by the spherical equivalent (SE) and the axial length (AL) in high myopia (HM) compared with normal eyes using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Patients and methods

This prospective, cross-sectional study included 20 eyes of 10 patients having nonpathological HM (SE ≥ −6.0 diopters) and 20 eyes of 10 normal individuals as a control group (SE=±0.5 diopter). OCTA was used to measure the average capillary VD of the optic disc (OD) at the radial peripapillary capillary (RPC) and the entire disc volume (ONH) which was correlated with AL and SE.

Results

The mean SE was −11.25±4.55 diopters (D) in the myopic group compared with −0.04±0.28 D in the control group with a statistically significant difference (P
< 0.001), while the mean AL was 27.37±1.65 mm in the myopic group and 22.87±0.58 mm in the control group, a statistically significant difference (P
< 0.001). The average capillary VD of the RPC and the ONH in the myopic group (44.36±4.65 and 49.6±4.28, respectively) was significantly less compared with the control group (49.51±1.60 and 55.49±1.86, respectively) (P < 0.001). There was a highly significant negative correlation between the optic nerve VD both RPC and ONH and axial length (r =−0.755, P < 0.001). On the other hand, there was no statistically significant correlation between the SE and best corrected visual acuity and the ON VD.

Conclusion

The decrease in ON VD could be attributed to ocular axial elongation that occurs with high myopia. So, the AL elongation must be considered, rather than the SE.
Clinical profile of corneal ulcers at a tertiary care hospital, North-West Rajasthan, India
Authors: Meena Ritu , Kochar Anju , Ali khan Nabab , Lunia Gautam , Farooq Shaheen
Published: June 2024

Background

Corneal ulcer is an inflammatory or more seriously infective condition of the cornea involving disruption of its epithelial layer with involvement of the corneal stroma.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical profile of corneal ulcers at Sardar Patel Medical College and associated group of hospitals, Bikaner, Rajasthan, India.

Patients and methods

This is a prospective, longitudinal, observational study that was conducted for two years from October 2020 to October 2022. It involved 100 clinically diagnosed corneal ulcer patients, recruited by consecutive sampling, attending the Outpatient Clinic at the Department of Ophthalmology, who were willing to participate in the study. Clinical evaluation included the sociodemographic aspects and the ulcer characteristics, including its location, shape, depth, presence of satellites, and hypopyon. Corneal scraping was performed in 60 cases with full aseptic measures after the instillation of topical anesthetic and the samples were sent to the Microbiology Department for further processing.

Results

The maximum proportion (52%) of the study population were 41-60 years old, with 58% of the patients being males, and 75% from rural areas. Most of the ulcers (68%) were central or paracentral in location, with 38% being of ameboid shape and 48% being superficial. Based on etiology, 48% were fungal, 32% were bacterial, 16% viral, 1% parasitic, and 3% noninfective. The most common pathogen was Aspergillus fumigatus followed by Staphylococci and viral infection.

Conclusion

Corneal ulcers were found most commonly in males aged 40–60 years hailing from rural areas engaged in agriculture. The most common etiological agent was Aspergillus fumigatus followed by Staphylococci.
Monocanalicular versus bicanalicular annular intubation for treatment of lacrimal canalicular laceration
Authors: Khedr Marwa A. , Maali Elsadek A. , Tawfik Ahmed , Kotb Ahmed N.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to compare the safety and efficacy of monocanalicular and bicanalicular annular intubation for treatment of lacrimal canalicular laceration.

Patients and methods

This is a retrospective review of the medical records of 52 patients for whom primary repair of lacrimal canalicular laceration was done. The patients were allocated into two groups. Group I included 26 patients who underwent primary repair with monocanalicular intubation while group II included 26 patients who underwent primary repair with bicanalicular annular intubation. Three months after removal of the stent, negative fluorescein dye disappearance test and patency of the canaliculus on lacrimal irrigation were defined as anatomical success, while functional success was defined as absence of epiphora. Complications like stent prolapse, granuloma formation, and medial canthal deformity were recorded.

Results

Complete anatomical success was achieved in 18 (69.2%) patients in group I and in 21 (80.8%) patients in group II, with no statistically significant difference (P=0.594). Complete functional success was achieved in 20 (76.9%) patients in group I and in 22 (84.6%) patients in group II, with no statistically significant difference (P=0.683). In addition, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding the postoperative complications including punctum granuloma, punctum slitting, and medial canthal region deformities (P>0.05).

Conclusion

Both monocanalicular intubation and bicanalicular annular intubation were safe and effective for treatment of lacrimal canalicular laceration with no statistically significant difference regarding the anatomical and functional outcomes as well as postoperative complications.
Herpes simplex keratitis following coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination: an observational study of forty-three cases with different presentations
Authors: Awad Ramy , Zaid Islam Abo , Awad Khaled , Elsherbiny Asmaa , Samaha Raymound , Elmassry Ahmed
Published: June 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the cases diagnosed with different presentations of herpes simplex virus (HSV) keratitis following coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination and to describe the relationship between the disease presentation, the type of vaccine, and the duration between vaccination and disease onset.

Patients and methods

This is a retrospective observational clinical study of HSV keratitis cases that was carried out by the Cornea Team at Alexandria Ophthalmology Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt, between March and September 2022. Full medical and ophthalmic history was taken, followed by a thorough ophthalmic examination. The vaccination data of the patients were recorded. The hospital records of the patients visiting the outpatient clinics, at that period, were collected regarding the number of vaccinated and nonvaccinated patients and the type of vaccine received.

Results

The study included 43 eyes of 43 patients. Typical dendritic corneal ulcer occurred in 21 (48.8%) eyes, while 5 (11.6%) eyes presented with a geographic ulcer, and 14 (32.6%) eyes were diagnosed as interstitial keratitis with or without ulceration. The remaining 3 (6.98%) eyes presented with disciform keratitis. Vaccination was previously received by 40 (93.02%) patients, while only 3 patients did not receive any vaccine. Oxford-Astra Zeneca vaccine was received by 14 (35%) patients, while the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was received by 13 (32.5%) patients, Sinovac vaccine by 10 (25%) patients, and other types of vaccines by three (7.5%) patients. The duration between the last dose received from the vaccine and the onset of symptoms ranged between 2 and 58 days (mean=18.35±13.3 days). Reviewing the hospital records, out of the 65 321 patients who visited the hospital during that period, 47% were nonvaccinated, and 53% were vaccinated with one dose or more of COVID-19 vaccine (Odds ratio=11.8207 indicating a significant association between HSV keratitis and vaccination).

Conclusion

Reactivation of HSV keratitis may follow COVID-19 vaccination with different presentations of herpetic keratitis. The Oxford-AstraZeneca and the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines were significantly associated with HSV ocular infection more than any other type of vaccine.
Tape, fix, and inject: a novel one-person technique of intravitreal injection for the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity under topical anesthesia
Authors: Ahmed Islam S.H. , Farag Marwa
Published: June 2024

Aim

The purpose of this study was to describe and evaluate a novel one-person intravitreal injection (IVI) technique for the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) under topical anesthesia.

Patients and methods

This is a retrospective study that was conducted on 44 babies who had IVI for the treatment of severe ROP under topical anesthesia. The swaddled baby’s head and body were fixed to the operating table with strips of adhesive tape, obviating the need for an assistant to hold the baby still. The calibers were used both to fix the globe and to determine the site of the injection by measuring the distance of 1.5 mm from the limbus.

Results

The mean gestational age of the patients was 29.6±1.5 weeks, with a mean birth weight of 1085.2±239.4 g. The mean procedure duration (between the insertion of the lid speculum at the beginning of the procedure and its removal at the end) for the right eye (64.9±15.6 s) was less than for the left eye (66.4±15.1 s), but the difference was not statistically significant (P=0.29). Inadvertent head movements occurred in 2 (4.5%) cases, with a large postmenstrual age of 37 and 38 weeks at treatment. None of the cases had inadvertent eye movements.

Conclusion

The technique seems safe and effective, especially in patients with a smaller postmenstrual age at the time of the injection. Additional care should be taken during taping of the head and the body in larger babies. Alternatively, giving sedation or general anesthesia may be a safer option.
Vascular endothelial growth factor gene polymorphisms and age-related macular degeneration in an Egyptian population
Authors: Aly Marwa Abdel Kareem Mohamed , El Deen Mahrous Hanan Salah , Desouky Lubna Mohamed Ibrahim , Nabil Karim Mahmoud
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of −1154 guanine (G)>adenine (A) and +405 G>cytosine (C) vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene polymorphisms as possible risk factors for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and to evaluate their role in patients’ response to anti-VEGF therapy.

Patients and methods

The study included 50 nAMD patients and 64 age and sex-matched healthy volunteers. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism was performed to assess the VEGF −1154 G>A and +405 G>C polymorphisms in relation to AMD.

Results

Hypertension was reported in 40 (80%) cases compared to 14 (21.9%) of the controls, with a statistically significant difference (P < 0.001). Heart disease was also reported more significantly in patients (13 = 26%) than in controls (7 = 10.9%), P = 0.036. In addition, smoking was detected in 39 cases (78%) compared to 10 (15.6%) controls, a statistically significant difference (P < 0.001). Molecular analysis of VEGF −1154 G>A and VEGF +405 G>C gene polymorphisms yielded nonstatistically significant difference between cases and control groups. Assessment of genotype frequency of VEGF −1154 among responders and nonresponders yielded nonstatistically significant difference. However, genotype frequency of VEGF +405 among responders and nonresponders revealed a statistically significant difference, with the GG genotype associated with better response to anti-VEGF therapy (61.1% responders versus 28.6% nonresponders according to visual acuity and optical coherence tomography parameters, P = 0.037).

Conclusion

Smoking, hypertension, and heart disease were critical risk factors for the development of AMD. The VEGF +405 G>C genotype was found to be an important predictor for response to anti-VEGF therapy.
Efficacy of subtenon steroid injection alone or in combination with topical steroid in the management of trematode-induced anterior granulomatous uveitis
Authors: Zaky Marwa Aly , Elkholy Mahmoud Ali Wafeek , Ellakwa Amin Faisal , El Ghoubashy Esraa Samy
Published: June 2024

Background

Presumed trematode-induced uveitis is a newly recognized cause of intraocular granulomatous inflammation in children, usually presenting with single or multiple pearl-like white nodules in the anterior chamber (AC) with or without subconjunctival lesions or corneal opacities.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of subtenon steroid injection alone or in combination with topical steroid in the management of trematode-induced anterior granulomatous uveitis.

Patients and methods

This is a prospective comparative study, that included the children who presented with AC granulomas at the Uveitis Unit at Tanta Ophthalmology Hospital, Tanta, Egypt. The patients were divided into two groups: Group A, who received subtenon steroid injection only, and Group B, who received both subtenon steroid injection and topical steroid eye drops. The basic demographic data, visual acuity (VA), granuloma site and size, and AC activity (cells and flare) were recorded and analyzed. A systemic work-up, including stool and urine analysis, full blood count, chest X-ray, and schistosomiasis titer, was performed. The patients were followed up on the first day, at 2 weeks, 1, and 3 months

Results

The study included 30 eyes of 30 patients. The mean age of the patients was 13.4±2.42 years, and 87% of the patients were males. Group B patients demonstrated statistically significant better improvement in VA, AC activity, and granuloma site and size compared to Group A patients (P<0.001). The granuloma in group A did not change in size and continued to exhibit AC activity.

Conclusion

The combination of subtenon and topical steroid was found to be more effective in the treatment of granuloma than the subtenon injection alone.
Modified technique for corneal laceration repair using amniotic membrane
Authors: Elkadim Mohamed , Elgohary Asmaa M , Alhelaly Mai Brakat , Abdelhalim Tamer I.
Published: June 2024

Background

Water-tight closure of lacerated corneal wounds may require a lot of sutures and result in significant corneal scarring and irregular astigmatism.

Aim

The aim of this study was to describe the technique of amniotic membrane (AM) onlay strip for corneal lacerations repair and to evaluate its outcome.

Patients and methods

This is a retrospective case series that included eight eyes with traumatic corneal lacerations. A strip of AM was applied to the corneal surface to cover the wound which was then sutured with 10/0 Nylon sutures involving the membrane. The sutures were well-spaced, and the suturing was avoided in the visual axis. Average keratometric (K) reading, keratometric astigmatism (KA), manifest refractive astigmatism (RA) in diopters (D), and spectacle or soft contact lens best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were assessed 2 months after suture removal.

Results

Transient postoperative hypotony was encountered in five cases (62.5%). The average K was 44.61±2.81 D, KA 2.20±0.71 D, and RA 1.78±0.73 D (range=1–3 D). The postoperative LogMAR BCVA was 0.39±0.18 (range=0.22–0.70).

Conclusions

The application of AM inlay strip during repair of corneal lacerations was associated with good visual outcome possibly due to the reduction of wound and suture related corneal astigmatism.
High burden to high impact
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh
Published: June 2024

Malaria is a major public health concern, and for many decades, consistent efforts have been taken to reduce the incidence of the disease as well as the associated deaths. In-fact, in the year 2019, a total of 229 million cases of the disease were reported globally. Malaria elimination has to be given utmost public health importance as the sufferings, complications of the infection, impairment in the quality of life, and the burden on the health-care delivery system are very much preventable. In the vision to accomplish malaria elimination, it is quite essential to understand the geographic conditions and the local predisposing factors before drafting the final strategy. In order to deal with this emerging situation, the World Health Organization in collaboration with the Roll Back Malaria partnership has come up with a high burden to high impact plan. It is a nation-owned and led approach developed in accordance with the set Sustainable Development Goals. In conclusion, the need of the hour is to strengthen services for elimination of malaria, and it will essentially require a multi-pronged approach involving different stakeholders, multiple sectors, and a well-co-ordinated team approach to bridge the existing lacunae and move considerable progress in the global aim to minimize sufferings and mortality attributed to a totally preventable and curable disease.
The overestimation of medical consequences of low-dose exposures
Authors: Jargin Sergei V.
Published: June 2024

After the Chernobyl disaster appeared papers overestimating medical consequences of low-dose radiation exposures. Examples have been discussed previously; an updated overview of selected studies is provided here. Various kinds of bias can be found in the epidemiological research reporting elevated health risks from low doses of ionizing radiation: Interpretation of spontaneous conditions as radiation-induced, dose comparisons disregarding the natural background, publication bias, etc. Admittedly, all relevant parameters cannot always be taken into account in epidemiological research. Several examples of potentially biased reports on Mayak Production Association workers and Techa river valley residents are analyzed here. Doubtful correlations between exposures to low radiation doses and nonmalignant conditions, discussed in this commentary, call into question the cause-effect character of such correlations for malignancies revealed by the same scientists. Correlations can be caused or influenced by dose-dependent selection and self-selection. Individuals with higher doses were probably more motivated to undergo medical checkups and given more attention. The medical surveillance of exposed populations is important; but more consideration should be given to potential bias. A promising approach to the study of dose-response relationships are lifelong experiments in different animal species that can reveal the net harm or potential benefit (within a certain range according to the concept of hormesis) from low-dose exposures to ionizing radiation.
Wind turbines and adverse health effects
Authors: Dumbrille Anne , McMurtry Robert Y. , Krogh Carmen Marie
Published: June 2024

The weight of evidence indicates occurrences of adverse health effects (AHEs) from living and working near industrial wind turbines (IWTs). Descriptions of the AHEs being reported by those living or working near the turbines are similar. While these occurrences have been associated with exposure to audible and inaudible noise annoyance, the causation of reported wind turbine-associated health effects remains controversial. Establishing an argument of causation of adverse health outcomes has important clinical, scientific, and societal implications. Bradford Hill (BH) criteria have been widely used to establish causality between an environmental agent and risk of disease or disability, but have not previously been used to evaluate the relationship between IWTs and AHEs. The objective was to apply the BH criteria to evaluate the relationship between IWTs and AHEs. The nine criteria include the strength of the association, consistency, specificity, temporal sequence, biological gradient, plausibility, coherence, experimental evidence, and analogous evidence. These nine criteria have been applied to IWT exposure and reported AHEs using peer-reviewed and other published literature that describes clinical, animal, and laboratory studies, testimony and reported experiences, and internet sources. Applying the BH criteria to the IWT-related clinical, biological, and experimental data demonstrates that the exposure to IWTs is associated with an increased risk of AHEs. This analysis concludes that living or working near IWTs can result in AHEs in both people and animals. Our findings provide compelling evidence that the risk of AHEs should be considered before the approval of wind energy projects and during the assessment of setback distances of proposed and operational projects.
Urinary metabolites as exposure biomarkers of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene in footwear workers and assessment of pulmonary function
Authors: Yadav Anupa , Saha Asim , Chakrabarti Amit , Nengzapum Geoffrey , Das Anirban , Das Surajit
Published: June 2024

Aim:

This pilot cross-sectional study focused on biological monitoring of the benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) urinary metabolites trans, trans-muconic acid (tt-MA), s-phenyl mercapturic acid (SPMA), hippuric acid (HA), mandelic acid (MA), and methylhippuric acid (MHA) and measured the effects of workplace BTEX exposure on pulmonary function of workers engaged in footwear manufacturing.

Materials and Methods:

Urinary metabolites tt-MA, SPMA, HA, MA, and MHA concentration in urine samples of study participants (N = 35) were analyzed by reverse-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography. Pulmonary function parameters were measured by spirometer and peak flow meter. Demographic information and work exposure information of study participants were collected by questionnaire interview.

Results:

In exposed workers, concentration of urinary SPMA, tt-MA, and HA was significantly higher (P < 0.01, in all) than the control group. Reduction in both force expiratory volume in 1 s (Forced expiratory volume in one second) and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) were inversely associated (P < 0.01) with growing years of age among all workers. Inverse association was measured between urinary tt-MA and decline in forced vital capacity and PEFR (P < 0.05, for each) in workers. Based on the questionnaire interview, workers were not found to be aware of workplace exposure hazards.

Conclusions:

Exposure biomarkers of benzene (tt-MA and SPMA) and toluene (HA) were significantly higher in workers than the control group. Study results evident the presence of occupational exposure to benzene and toluene in footwear workers. Deterioration in FEV1 and PEFR were also measured among all workers with growing years of age. The sample size was small in the present study, so further research required to confirm our results.
Pharmacovigilance initiative for Ayush drugs in India
Authors: Singh Shweta , Pamnani Itika , Rang Sourav , Malik Rabia , Punitha A. , Purkait Rajib
Published: June 2024

Since ancient times medicinal plants are regarded as rich sources of therapeutic agents for the prevention of various diseases. Synthetic pharmaceuticals dominated the market for centuries, but in recent years, the use of traditional medical systems such as Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homoeopathy have grown significantly and their demand has increased to many folds. Particularly ever since the pandemic spread across the country, this demand is witnessed more. Most of the drugs in these systems come from nature, so they are considered safe. However, this is always not true. In such a scenario, it becomes essential to continuously monitor these medications to dispel notions about them and to build public trust on scientific lines. Pharmacovigilance is such a system, which covers activities relating to the detection, assessment, understanding, and prevention of adverse effects of drugs. The pharmacovigilance system for Ayush drugs was established in 2007 in the Indian context. To ensure effective implementation; the same program has been restructured by the Ministry of Ayush, under the Central Sector Scheme in 2017. The current program is making efforts to promote understanding, education, and inculcating reporting culture among Ayush stakeholders including health professionals and the public as well. Besides this, the program is also involved in the surveillance of misleading advertisements appearing in print and electronic media.
Standardization in AYUSH systems: Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and International Organization for Standardization (ISO) perspectives
Authors: Dua Pradeep Kumar , Naik Raghvendra , Jain Snehlata
Published: June 2024

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the National Standard Body of India, responsible for the development of Indian standards for products, processes, and services related to all consumer goods. BIS formulates standards in line with the national priorities for various sectors. Recently, BIS has created a dedicated department of standardization in the Ayush systems. Prior to this, the activity of standards formulation related to Ayush systems was being undertaken across several departments like Food and Agriculture Department (FAD), Medical Equipment and Hospital Planning Department (MHD), and the Service Sector Department (SSD) in the BIS. Total 28 standards related to different topics like single herbs (17), Ayurveda and Yoga terminologies (6), Panchakarma equipment (2), Cotton Yoga Mat (01), Yoga centre-service requirements (01), and test methods for pesticide residue in herbs used as ingredients in traditional medicines (01) have already been published under these departments. Thirty (30) documents related to Indian Standards for herbs used in Ayush systems are under publication and thirty-three (33) have recently completed the wide circulation stage. A document on specification for Stainless Steel Neti Pot is also under publication, whereas preliminary draft Indian standards for Vastra dhouti and Sutra neti are in the process of being formulated. Inclusion of ‘Ayush’ in a modified adoption of an ISO standard on ‘Medical Tourism’ by the BIS, is also poised to boost the Medical Value Tourism related to Ayush sector A proposal from India for creation of dedicated Technical Committee (TC) on “Ayush systems” in the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is under consideration for re-submission to the ISO. Three (03) proposals from India in the field of Ayurveda informatics are accepted for formulation of international deliverables in the Working Group 10 – “Traditional Medicine” under the ISO TC 215 – “Health Informatics”. Formulation of Indian Standards as well as ISO deliverables is aimed at making available safe and effective Ayush interventions at the global market. This will not only augment the global visibility of Ayush systems but will also boost the international trade in this ‘Sunrise Sector’.