bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Slit-lamp based intraocular lens microscope - A novel technique of rapid office-based microscopy
Authors: Chandrakanth Prithvi , Gosalia Hirika , Verghese Shishir , Chandrakanth K S , Narendran Kalpana , Narendran Venkatapathy
Published: March 2022

The emergence of smartphone-based imaging devices has been a boon in the field of ophthalmology, especially in obtaining high-quality ocular images. They can be specialized and utilized for imaging-specific regions of the eye. Among the multitude of applications of smartphone-based imaging, one of the upcoming major use is to image the microbiological world. Previous few reports have described attaching magnifying lenses of various types to the smartphone camera and transforming it into a microscope for imaging fungal hyphae and ocular surface parasites. We describe a novel technique of attaching the smartphone-based intraocular lens microscope (IOLSCOPE) to the slit lamp, thereby utilizing the slit lamp joystick for moving the smartphone over the concerned slide specimen to make it steady and obtain images of high resolution. This innovative do-it-yourself novel modification is especially useful in peripheral centers, vision centers, and local clinics for immediate screening and identification of microbial pathogens such as fungi and ocular surface parasites.
Outcomes of a simplified, fixed surgical dosage calculation for uncomplicated, horizontal, concomitant strabismus in adults
Authors: Natung Tanie , Pandey Ishita , Lyngdoh Laura A
Published: March 2022

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of a simplified, fixed surgical dosage calculation for uncomplicated, horizontal, concomitant strabismus in adults.

Methods:

Outcomes analysis of a fixed-dose calculation method for uncomplicated, horizontal, concomitant strabismus in adults (≥18 years) wherein 1-mm recession/resection equals 2 PD for lateral rectus and 3 PD for medial rectus. This was a retrospective case series.

Results:

The mean age of the patients was 28.50 ± 8.43 years, the mean amount of preoperative deviation was 35.16 ± 9.97 PD, the mean expected correction was 36.26 ± 9.49 PD, and the mean correction achieved was 35.92 ± 10.74 PD. There were 22 monocular exotropias, six monocular esotropias, eight alternate divergent squints, and two alternate convergent squints. There were 20 cases of sensory strabismus (54.28%). There was no statistically significant difference between the expected correction and correction achieved (P = 0.519), meaning that our fixed-dose calculation method was effective. Thirty-five out of 38 patients had successful outcomes as per our criteria of less than 10-PD deviations from straight in primary position. Therefore, the success rate achieved by this procedure was 92.10%. There was no statistically significant correlation between age and the amount of deviation (P = 0.611)

Conclusion:

Our case series had a high postoperative success rate in terms of motor alignment. It is hoped that this simplified, fixed-dosage calculation method would help the numerous novice strabismus surgeons, make their starting steps easier and give them the confidence to do strabismus surgeries. They can modify the dosages later as per their own experiences.
Initial experience in treating polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy with brolucizumab in Indian eyes – A multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Chakraborty Debdulal , Maiti Aniruddha , Sengupta Sabyasachi , Mondal Soumen , Nandi Krishnendu , Chakraborty Somnath
Published: March 2022

Purpose:

To report the initial experience of managing treatment-resistant and treatment-naïve eyes with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) by using brolucizumab 6 mg.

Methods:

This was a retrospective multicentric series of all consecutive eyes with PCV treated with brolucizumab. Treatment resistance was defined as taking at least six prior anti-VEGF injections over the past 1 year and showing persistent disease activity in the form of intra (IRF) or subretinal fluid (SRF) or both. All patients were treated on a pro re nata (PRN) basis and followed up monthly. Retreatment was considered when either SRF or IRF were present at any time point during the study.

Results:

We included 21 eyes of 21 patients with PCV with a mean age of 65.1 ± 9.9 years, of which 16 eyes (76%) were treatment-resistant. The mean follow-up period from receiving the first brolucizumab was 27.3 ± 3.3 weeks. Of the 21 eyes, seven eyes (33%) received three injections during follow-up, 13 eyes (62%) received two injections, and one eye received one injection. The mean injection-free interval was 12 ± 1.2 weeks. The median pretreatment vision was 0.6 logMAR (IQR = 0.47–1 logMAR) and improved to 0.3 logMAR (IQR = 0.25–0.6 logMAR), whereas the mean macular thickness improved from 443 ± 60 mm at baseline to 289 ± 25 mm (P < 0.001) at the last follow-up period. None of the eyes experienced any intraocular inflammation across 48 injection sessions

Conclusion:

Brolucizumab is safe and effective in controlling PCV disease in both treatment-resistant and treatment-naïve eyes.
PHACOSIT: A sitting phacoemulsification technique for patients unable to lie down flat during cataract surgery
Authors: Brayan Jebinth , Chandrakanth Prithvi , Narendran Siddharth , Narendran Kalpana , Narendran Venkatapathy
Published: March 2022

Phacoemulsification is routinely performed with the patient lying supine on the surgical table with his or her head flat and facing the overhead microscope. This routine technique can be a challenge in medical conditions such as kyphosis, scoliosis, orthopnea, Meniere’s disease, and CNS abnormality. Some cardiovascular and respiratory conditions make the patients breathless when they lie down, whereas other neurological and spinal problem patients are also equally uncomfortable. The only reasonable solution to conduct surgery on a patient who cannot lie down flat on the operating table is to position them face to face in a sitting position. We describe an innovative phacoemulsification technique in a sitting position called “phacosit” in an 80-year-old wheelchair-bound female patient who was denied cataract surgery by other eye surgeons owing to her medical condition.
Complete and incomplete lower motor neuron facial palsy in post-COVID-19 mucormycosis
Authors: Gautam Manushree , Soni Meenal , Bhaisare Vijay , Rawat Preeti , Walia Shweta , Kori Neetu
Published: March 2022

Purpose:

To study facial nerve palsy (FNP) in post-COVID-19-mucormycosis patients and its ocular complications, report different presentations of FNP in such patients, and propose its etiopathogenesis based on presentation and clinico-radiologic localization.

Methods:

A prospective cohort study was carried out in patients of post-COVID-19-mucormycosis who presented at our tertiary center, over a period of 3 months. Motor and sensory examination of the facial nerve was done to diagnose FNP and localize the lesion clinically. Slit-lamp examination was done for grading corneal involvement. MRI brain, orbit, and paranasal sinuses (PNS) with contrast were studied to find involvement along the facial nerve. It was assessed whether this site of lesion corresponded with clinical localization. Data were analyzed using the percentage of total cases and Fisher’s test.

Results:

A total of 300 patients with post-COVID-19 mucormycosis were examined, of which 30 (10%) patients were found to have FNP. All were lower motor neuron (LMN) type and were associated with corneal complications. The most common site clinically was distal to the chorda tympani (66.66%) and radiologically was infratemporal (IT) fossa (63.4%). The clinical localization significantly correlated with the radiological findings (P = 0.012). Twenty percent of patients showed incomplete involvement of facial muscles

Conclusion:

FNP was found to be of LMN type. The most common site of insult was IT fossa. There was a good clinico-radiological correspondence of lesions. Isolated lesions were also found along the peripheral nerve course, presenting as incomplete facial palsy. Recognition of FNP in post-COVID-19 mucormycosis, in all its variable forms, is important to manage corneal complications.
Stromal and endothelial herpes simplex virus keratitis reactivation in the convalescent period of COVID-19 – A case report
Authors: Das Nibedita , Das Joyeeta , Pal Dipanjan
Published: March 2022

A 73-year-old lady presented with a white spot and redness in the left eye for 1 month and had been treated elsewhere as a case of fungal keratitis. She had severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) viral infection 2 months before. Her past ocular history and examination gave a probable diagnosis of herpetic stromal and endothelial keratitis. She responded to oral acyclovir and topical steroid, leading to resolution of stromal edema and inflammation. Anterior chamber fluid polymerase chain reaction (PCR) confirmed pathogen herpes simplex virus (HSV)-1. HSV ocular reactivation after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been reported currently. The present report will add knowledge about this potential opportunistic ophthalmic infection during the recovery phase of COVID-19 disease.
Multiple evanescent white dot syndrome following SARS-CoV-2 infection - A case report
Authors: Jain Anupreeti , Shilpa I N , Biswas Jyotirmay
Published: March 2022

To report a case of MEWDS post-COVID-19 infection with multimodal imaging. A 17-year-old boy reported blurring of vision in both eyes 2 months and 10 days following the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Fundus examination revealed hypopigmented lesions nasal to the optic disc, inferior periphery, and near macula in both eyes. Multimodal imaging was consistent with MEWDS. A complete systemic workup was performed to exclude infectious etiology. Fundus lesions resolved with a course of oral corticosteroids and was confirmed on multimodal imaging.
Curious case of bilateral non-resolving vitritis - Unmasking the masquerade on ultra-widefield imaging
Authors: Delhiwala Kushal
Published: March 2022

Background:

Recognizing vitreous haze (VH) patterns on ultra-widefield imaging (UWFI) in nonresolving vitritis can reduce delay in suspecting vitreoretinal lymphoma (VRL) and in performing an early vitreous biopsy for definitive diagnosis.

Purpose:

To demonstrate role of UWFI in providing a clue for suspecting VRL in case of bilateral nonresolving dense vitritis and demonstrate precautions for high yield of lymphoma cells on vitreous biopsy.

Synopsis:

A 52-year-old healthy phakic lady came with gradual, painless blurred vision OS>OD for 6 months.Treated elsewhere for OU vitritis with steroids (local and systemic), anti-tubercular therapy for 2 months, and azathioprine, she had no improvement. Presenting best-corrected visual acuty was counting fingers OD and hand movement OS. Anterior segment OU was quiet. Fundus showed OD 3+ and OS 4+ vireous haze (VH). UWFI showed “aurora borealis” pattern of VH (OS>OD) and “string of pearls” OD. Ultrasonography B-scan OU showed complete posterior vitreous detachment and attached retina. OU VRL was suspected. MRI brain and orbit with contrast was found to be normal. After stopping steroids for 2 weeks, OS underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and intravitreal (IV) methotrexate 400 mcg/0.1 ml + rituximab 1mg/0.1ml. Vitreous sample sent for cytology and immunohistochemistry showed diffuse large B-cell non-Hodgkins lymphoma with CD20 and MUM1-positive cells. OD underwent two IV rituximab injections at monthly interval initially followed by PPV with IV rituximab and methotrexate. The patient remained in remission during close follow-up. Recognizing VH patterns on UWFI can reduce the delay in the diagnosis of VRL and early initiation of treatment.

Highlights:

VH patterns in VRL depend on state of vitreous liquefaction and syneresis.Aurora borealis pattern on UWFI results from linear opacities with lymphoma cells uniformly aligned along formed vitreous fibrils.String of pearls pattern results from clumps of lymphoma cells and inflammatory material over the scaffold of vitreous fibrils.These patterns provide high index of suspicion for considering VRL as d iagnosis.IV rituximab has minimal side effects and has been effective in managing VRL with isolated ocular involvement.

Video Link:
https://youtu.be/uTplGPStmrM
Bleb revision with bleborhexis and clear corneal lamellar patch graft for overhanging cystic bleb
Authors: Maheshwari Devendra , Tara Techi Dodum , Madhavi R. , Pawar Neelam , Ramakrishnan R.
Published: March 2022

Background:

Trabeculectomy is associated with several complications. One of the common complications with mitomycin assisted trabeculectomy is thin cystic bleb leading to bleb leak, hypotony and infections. Various technique of bleb repair and reconstruction have been described, such as conjunctival advancement, or scleral, pericardial or corneal patch graft.

Purpose:

To demonstrate bleb revision by bleborhexis and clear corneal lamellar patch graft for a patient with thin cystic leaking bleb leading to hypotony and decreased vision.

Synopsis:

This was a 75-year-old one-eyed lady, diagnosed with primary angle-closure glaucoma in both eyes with absent light perception in the left eye, had undergone a combined trabeculectomy and cataract surgery in the right eye 6 years ago. She presented with diminution of vision (6/18p), introacular pressure (IOP) of of 6 mmHg, thin cystic leaking overhanging bleb, and dysesthesia. Bleb repair by bleborhexis with lamellar corneal patch graft was performed. Bleborhexis is a technique in which the overhanging fibrosed thin cystic conjunctival bleb is peeled off the cornea smoothly to leave a uniform clear corneal surface. Clear cornea, uniform diffuse bleb, well-formed anterior chamber with and IOP of 15 mmHg was noted on the first post-operative day, with a vision of 6/12p. This procedure helped meticulous reconstruction of the bleb, early recovery of vision, maintanance of normotensive eye, and save the eye from potential infections.

Highlights:

Bleborhexis with lamellar corneal patch graft provides for an easy and a elegant surgical technique with minimal corneal tissue damage, faster healing and patient comfort. It could be the favored technique in patients with thin overhanging clebs.

Video link:
https://youtu.be/GeFYHWToueU
The art of tackling strabismus skillfully by sparing vessels
Authors: Rajendran Janani , Aguiar Marushka , Vijayalakshmi P. , Shetty Shashikant
Published: March 2022

Background:

Detaching a rectus muscle irreparably destroys its ciliary artery circulation which also supplies the anterior segment of the eye.

Purpose:

To educate strabismus surgeons about a method of detaching a muscle without compromising anterior segment circulation.

Synopsis:

A limbal based conjunctival incision is made. The muscle is identified, separated from its attachments and secured with 6-0 Vicryl. The anterior ciliary vessel supplying it is isolated by making a small snip incision in the muscle capsule with delicate blunt dissection parallel to the anterior ciliary artery The muscle is detached from its original insertion. The muscle is tied to sclera at the intended point of recession. The intact anterior ciliary artery, thus will continue to function, untouched.

Highlights:

We recommend pre-placing the sutures in the muscle and also in the sclera at the point of reattachment to avoid possible stretching and breaking of anterior ciliary vessels at the time of muscle detachment and also to dissect the artery free from muscle several millimeters more than the intended recession in order to spare the anterior ciliary circulation in strabismus surgery.

Video link:
https://youtu.be/Bn050Ihu9rU
Reverse Swiss Roll technique for diabetic vitreous membranes
Authors: Narnaware Shilpi , Bawankule Prashant , Sontakke Suraj , Rewatkar Kaustubh , Bansal Anju
Published: March 2022

Background:

Diabetic membranes are always a challenge for a surgeon because of sticky nature and chances of iatrogenic break while removing.

Purpose:

To demonstrate a safe reverse swiss roll technique to dissect diabetic vitreous membranes.

Synposis:

Approaches and techniques for membrane dissection are segmentation, delamination and en-bloc dissection using various types of instruments and illumination. With vitreous cutte, picks and scissors, surgical steps are traditionallu performed by using classic lift and shave technique. After identifying the plane, tissue is lifted and then cut, which puts the retina at risk of break because of traction and active suction. Such a threat can be reduced by placing the cutter above the membrane thereby having the membrane itseld acting as a protective cushion to the retina. Port here, unlike lift and shave technique, doesn’t face the edge of membrane but is exactly 180 degree opposite and membrane curls into port because of suction. Also, hemostasis is maintained by continuous aspiration and cutting as the instrument is moved side to side, retracting from the edge.

Highlights:

Reverse swiss roll technique is safer compared to lift and shave because of the safety cushion of the membrane between the port and the retina. There is inherently less chances of retinal break because the active suction from the port is directed away from the retina. The technique also minimises traction and localised pull on the atrophic macula.

Video link:
https://youtu.be/WNnSsP69ZLw
Clinical profile and distribution of peripheral retinal changes in myopic population in a hospital-based study in North India
Authors: Khatwani Neelam , Makhija Sandhya , Ahuja Ashish
Published: March 2022

Purpose:

To evaluate the prevalence of different types of peripheral retinal changes in a myopic population in North India and correlate them with axial length.

Methods:

This cross-sectional, hospital-based survey included 600 eyes of 300 myopic individuals, aged between 10 and 40 years, attending the outdoor ophthalmology clinic of a tertiary eye care hospital in North India were examined from July 2019 to July 2020. They were divided into mild, moderate, high, and severe myopia according to the spherical equivalent of refraction. Axial length was recorded. Peripheral retinal changes were examined by scleral indentation binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy. Standardized findings considered with their fundus location were lattice degeneration, white without pressure and white with pressure, snail-track degenerations, peripheral chorioretinal atrophy, retinal holes, tears, and detachment. The study was approved by the institutional ethics committee, and all participants provided informed consent.

Results:

Peripheral retinal degenerations were found in almost half (53%) of all myopes included in the study. The most common peripheral retinal degeneration found was lattice degeneration, followed by white without pressure, white with pressure, and chorioretinal atrophy. Most of the peripheral retinal degenerations were seen in the temporal quadrant of the fundus, either superotemporal or inferotemporal. There was a significant positive association between the prevalence of peripheral retinal degeneration with age, increased axial length, and severity of myopia

Conclusion:

The results of our study indicate the necessity for careful peripheral fundus examinations of all myopes, irrespective of age and degree of myopia, for early diagnosis and better management of visual-threatening complications like retinal detachment.
Correlation of E1 Lesions and CD68 Count with Proteinuria and Clinical Outcome in IgA Nephropathy
Authors: Radha Sistla , Afroz Tameem , Reddy Y. Sandeep , Sridhar Gandhe , Rajaram K. G.
Published: March 2022

Background:

IgA nephropathy (IgAN) has variable course; few patients have a benign presentation and other patients present with late stage disease. Endocapillary hypercellularity has a prognostic significance in IgAN. It is important to identify E1 lesions accurately. The use of CD68 immunohistochemistry marker to identify glomerular macrophages will standardize the reporting and help the clinicians prognosticate the patients.

Subjects and Methods:

The material is from a referral laboratory for renal biopsies in a tertiary care hospital. Renal biopsies are processed as per protocol including light microscopy, immunofluorescence and electron microscopy where ever required. CD68 was used in this study to identify macrophages in E1 lesions. A total of 1220 primary glomerular diseases were diagnosed from January 2019 till date. Out of these, IgA constituted 11.9% of primary glomerular diseases. Renal biopsies received were from the department of nephrology and various other nephrology centers. Biopsies were received in 10% buffered formalin. Immunofluorescence is done on all biopsies, and electron microscopy was done in few cases to differentiate from other lesions with dominant IgA deposits. CD68 was done in 50 cases of IgAN. Apart from hematoxylin and eosin stains, periodic acid-Schiff, Masson trichrome, Jones silver stain were also done.

Results:

IgAN constituted 11.9% of cases. Twenty-five cases of E0 and twenty-five cases of E1 lesions were correlated with clinical and morphological features. There was correlation with proteinuria and hypertension in E1 lesions. There was no significant correlation with the morphological variants like crescents, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis.

Conclusions:

Inter observer correlation of E lesions is poor in classifying IgAN. Use of CD68 is a useful adjunct to identify macrophages. E1 lesions have more proteinuria requiring treatment for delaying the progression to end stage disease. Despite significant association of E1 lesions with progression, there may be many unmeasured factors which would influence the outcome.
Review and Practical Recommendations for Peripheral Nerve Block During Coronavirus Disease-2019 Pandemic
Authors: Khanna Sangeeta , Prasad G. V. Krishna
Published: March 2022

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) was announced as a global pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020 due to its rapid spread and multinational involvement. Operating room preparedness in these times should encompass increased vigilance, protective measures, and alternative procedures in an effort to mitigate the spread from a proven or suspected case. Specifically, by reducing aerosol-generating procedures as in general anesthesia, anesthesiologists can decrease exposure to patient's respiratory secretions and transmission of virus to the health-care professional and other patients. The Interoperability Standards Advisory in its advisory has also recommended regional anesthesia over general anesthesia as one of the steps that can reduce aerosol spread. Further, to restrict airway manipulation, peripheral nerve blocks (PNB) should be considered whenever possible in suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 undergoing surgery. PNB has the advantage of maintenance of respiratory functions, prevention of aerosolization, and so preventing viral transmission. This article explores the practical information and suggested measures for conducting PNB in COVID-19 patients with suggestions toward resource planning, clinical environment modification, equipment preparation, supply of drugs, choosing of correct personal protective equipment, safe PNB procedures, anesthesia monitoring, and postanesthetic care. By addressing these issues, infection control during anesthesia can be achieved and which is essential in the present era with emerging infection and novel pathogens such as coronavirus 2 causing the severe acute respiratory syndrome. Thus, framing a structured protocol for PNB among these patients is essential for the best perioperative outcome.
Growth in Chevalley groups relatively to parabolic subgroups and some applications
Authors: Shkredov Ilya D.
Published: March 2022

Given a Chevalley group

{\mathbf G}(q)

and a parabolic subgroup

P\subset {\mathbf G}(q)

, we prove that for any set

A

there is a certain growth of

A

relatively to

P

, namely, either

AP

or

PA

is much larger than

A

. Also, we study a question about the intersection of

A^n

with parabolic subgroups

P

for large

n

. We apply our method to obtain some results on a modular form of Zaremba’s conjecture from the theory of continued fractions, and make the first step towards Hensley's conjecture about some Cantor sets with Hausdorff dimension greater than

1/2

.
Деформированные лестничные операторы для универсальной модели одно- и двухмодового сжатых гармонических осцилляторов при наличии минимальной длины
Authors: Dossa Finagnon Anselme Anselme , Avossevou Gabriel Yves Hugues
Published: March 2022

Для квантово-механических моделей, в которых присутствует минимальная длина, построены деформированные лестничные операторы, далее использующиеся для изучения одно- и двухмодового сжатых гармонических осцилляторов. Универсальный гамильтониан cистемы выражается через генераторы деформированной алгебры $su(1,1)$. Реализации этой алгебры позволяют преобразовать чисто квантово-механическую задачу для данной модели в дифференциальное уравнение. С помощью метода Никифорова-Уварова найдены собственные энергии и соответствующие волновые функции в импульсном пространстве, которые записываются через гипергеометрические функции. Эти исследования показывают, что область существования энергетических уровней расширяется по сравнению с недеформированной моделью и это расширение обусловлено параметром деформации.
Функциональный подход к базису типа Гельфанда-Цетлина для алгебры $\mathfrak{o}_5$
Authors: Artamonov Dmitrii Vyacheslavovich
Published: March 2022

Рассматривается реализация представления алгебры $\mathfrak{o}_5$ в пространстве функций на группе $Spin_5\simeq Sp_4$. В представлении рассматривается базис типа Гельфанда-Цетлина, основанный на ограничении $\mathfrak{o}_5\downarrow\mathfrak{o}_3$. Именно такой базис естественно возникает в задачах квантовой механики. Явно строятся функции на группе, соответствующие базисным векторам. Как и в случаях алгебр Ли $\mathfrak{gl}_3$, $\mathfrak{sp}_4$, они выражаются через $A$-гипергеометрические функции (это свойство нарушается для алгебр данных серий больших размерностей). С помощью этой реализации выписаны явные формулы для действия генераторов алгебры.
Point-of-Care Sample Preparation and Automated Quantitative Detection of Schistosoma haematobium Using Mobile Phone Microscopy
Authors: Armstrong Maxim , Harris Andrew R. , D’Ambrosio Michael V. , Coulibaly Jean T. , Essien-Baidoo Samuel , Ephraim Richard K. D. , Andrews Jason R. , Bogoch Isaac I. , Fletcher Daniel A.
Published: March 2022

Schistosoma haematobium continues to pose a significant public health burden despite ongoing global control efforts. One of several barriers to sustained control (and ultimately elimination) is the lack of access to highly sensitive diagnostic or screening tools that are inexpensive, rapid, and can be used at the point of sample collection. Here, we report an automated point-of-care diagnostic based on mobile phone microscopy that rapidly images and identifies S. haematobium eggs in urine samples. Parasite eggs are filtered from urine within a specialized, inexpensive cartridge that is then automatically imaged by the mobile phone microscope (the “SchistoScope”). Parasite eggs are captured at a constriction point in the tapered cartridge for easy imaging, and the automated quantification of eggs is obtained upon analysis of the images by an algorithm. We demonstrate S. haematobium egg detection with greater than 90% sensitivity and specificity using this device compared with the field gold standard of conventional filtration and microscopy. With simple sample preparation and image analysis on a mobile phone, the SchistoScope combines the diagnostic performance of conventional microscopy with the analytic performance of an expert technician. This portable device has the potential to provide rapid and quantitative diagnosis of S. haematobium to advance ongoing control efforts.
Synthesis, spectroscopic characterizations and DFT studies on the metal complexes of azathioprine immunosuppressive drug
Authors: Alsuhaibani Amnah Mohammed , Refat Moamen S. , Adam Abdel Majid A. , Kobeasy Mohamed I. , Kumar Deo Nandan , Shakya Sonam
Published: March 2022

ABSTRACT. A complex of the immunosuppressive drug azathioprine with Cr(II), Mn(II), Fe(II), Zn(II), Cu(II), Ni(II), and Co(II) were synthesized and characterized through spectroscopic and thermal studies. The infrared spectra show the coordination of azathioprine via N(9) to the metal, also, the range around 640–650 cm−1 remains unchanged in the complexes, indicating the possibility that the ether group may not be involved in the binding. Thermogravimetric analysis (TG), thermogravimetric derivational analysis (DTG), and differential thermogravimetric analysis (DTA) have been studied in the temperature range from 0 °C to 1000 °C. The study of pyrolysis showed that all complexes decompose in more than one step and that the final decomposition product is metal oxide. The DFT (density functional theory) with B3LYP/6-31G++ level of theory was used to study the optimized geometry, HOMO→LUMO energy gap, and molecular electrostatic potential map of azathioprine before and after deprotonation.

               

KEY WORDS: Azathioprine, Spectral study, Thermal study, Decomposition products, DFT

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2022, 36(1), 73-84.                                                                  

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v36i1.7
In-hospital cost analysis of aquablation compared with transurethral resection of the prostate in the treatment of benign prostatic enlargement
Authors: Müllhaupt Gautier , Lyatoshinsky Pavel , Neuenschwander Anne , Güsewell Sabine , Schmid Hans-Peter , Abt Dominik
Published: March 2022

PURPOSE: To compare in-hospital treatment costs of aquablation and transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) in the treatment of benign prostatic enlargement.
PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patient data and procedural details were derived from a prospective database. In-hospital costs were calculated using detailed expenditure reports provided by the hospital accounts department. Total costs including those arising from surgical procedures, consumables, personnel and accommodation were analysed for 24 consecutive patients undergoing aquablation and compared with 24 patients undergoing TURP during the same period. Mean total costs and mean costs for individual expense items were compared between treatment groups with t-tests.
RESULTS: Mean total costs per patient (± standard deviation) were higher for aquablation at EUR 10,994 ± 2478 than for TURP at EUR 7445 ± 2354. The mean difference of EUR 3549 was statistically significant (p <0.001). Although the mean procedural costs were significantly higher for aquablation (mean difference EUR 3032; p <0.001), costs apart from the procedure were also lower for TURP, but the mean difference of EUR 1627 was not significant (p <0.327). Medical supplies were mainly responsible (mean difference EUR 2057; p <0.001) for the difference in procedural costs.
CONCLUSIONS: In-hospital costs are significantly higher for aquablation than for TURP, mainly due to higher costs of medical supplies for the procedure. This difference should be taken into consideration, at least in patients for whom the different side effect profiles of both treatments are irrelevant.
COVID-19 Detection using Chest X-RAY
Authors: K. N. Jai Shankar , G. R. Poornima , C. K. Narayanappa
Published: March 2022

In view of the COVID-19 pandemic, the exponential increase in the COVID-19 patients is leading to the enormous demand on the healthcare systems across the world. The allocation of resources towards the detection of the people affected by the virus plays a key role in curbing the pandemic and slowing down the spread of the virus to a greater extent. While traditional procedures are utilized to discover COVID-19 individuals, testing each individual with a limited number of testing kits is a massive undertaking. Most healthcare systems include X-ray equipment, and most of them being digitized, can be utilized as a way of screening for COVID-19 patients. This paper proposes AI model that can analyze and predict a possible COVID-19 patient, which can be used to prioritize the people for further testing. Further we propose the automation of this process where the models can be deployed in a remote server or an edge computing device where the X-ray images can be screened by the deep learning model to give predictions with very less turnaround time.
Miller’s Compensation Techniques for a High Gain, High BW OP-AMP at 65 nm Technology
Authors: Sama Nihar Jouti , Sarma Manash Pratim
Published: March 2022

OP-AMPs find applications in different domains of electronics engineering including communications. There have been several OP-AMP configurations realized in the last decades for different target applications. But with the evolution of communication standards, to meet the demand for high data rate over the years, the requirement for a high frequency and high BW OP-AMP is gaining attention. This makes the design challenge much higher. This paper presents a two-stage CMOS amplifier that uses a frequency compensation method to facilitate higher BW. Different parameters like Gain, Gain bandwidth product (GBWP), Phase Margin, and Total Power dissipation are considered in this design. A step-by-step procedure for an efficient amplifier design is followed using frequency compensation. We have achieved a gain-bandwidth product (GBWP) of 110 MHz that is capable of driving large capacitive loads. It also achieves 77.7 dB gain and phase margin of 60° with the minimal noise of 2.27 μ^V/√ Hz and the slew rate of 20.12 V/ms
A Study on Humanoid Robots and Its Psychological Evaluation
Authors: Sowmiya S , Ramachandran M , Sathiyaraj Chinnasamy , Vidhya Prasanth , Soniya Sriram
Published: March 2022

. Humanoid robots are professional robots designed to mimic human movement and communication. Like all service robots, they provide value by automating tasks that lead to cost savings and productivity. Humanoid robots are a relatively new form of professional service robot. The humanoid robot is one of the humanoid robots developed by Hanson Robotics. Sophia has a human-like conversation and can express many human-like facial expressions. Human robots research and space exploration, personal assistance and maintenance, education and recreation, search and
rescue, production and maintenance, public relations and health. Human figures move, speak and function through certain features such as sensors and actuators. Android is a human robot that looks like a human, while ginoids look like female humans. Human figures function through certain features. They have sensors that help them sense their
surroundings, and they have many features such as Changeable flexibility, law enforcement and mobility. The humanoid robot assists working people by ensuring their care and complete safety. Such robots work in factories as well, while humanoid robots, which can perform repetitive tasks without error, are not intended to imitate humans in
form and ambiguous function. They have more specific roles - than just being a “do it all” assistant. Our own TUG mobile robots and Robot's Rumba are every prime example of humanoid robots. Robots made in human form or in the shape of a human body - one head, one body, two arms and two legs. Androids are artificial creatures like humans, at
least in appearance but also in behavior. Now available for purchase or rent for an undisclosed amount, the related Android labeled Ameca has beautiful face andmovable hands and is charged as the "perfect human robot operating system for human-robot communication"
Optimization based design of an UKF vehicle state estimator
Authors:   Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, GERMANY, Heidfeld Hannes , Schünemann Martin ,   Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, GERMANY
Published: March 2022

For years the trend has been towards automated and assisted driving, for which vehicle dynamic control is needed. Effective vehicle dynamic control requires exact knowledge of the vehicle motion state and the road conditions, which usually comes from state estimators. As vehicle dynamics models often are nonlinear, the design of those estimators can be a difficult task. The Unscented Kalman Filter is a powerful tool for nonlinear state estimation. Besides the selection of an appropriate model, the choice of covariance matrices is main task in the design phase. For this, optimization-based tuning has become a state of the art method. Often minimization of the estimation error is done, for example with global optimization methods [1]. However, this approach does not fully take into account the stochastic properties of the estimated variables, which can result in implausible covariance estimations. Addressing this problem, different approaches for optimization-based tuning arepresented in this paper using the example of an UKF state observer for a four-wheel drive electric vehicle [2], [3]. First, details on the used vehicle model as well as the estimator implementation are given. Then optimization and validation are carried out using data from driving tests in a vehicle simulation including various severe maneuvers and varying road conditions. Last, the results are compared and discussed.
Online Business Challenges Faced by the Junior and Senior High School Student-Entrepreneurs in Philippine School Doha, S.Y. 2021-2022
Authors: Baranao Elmerson L. Baranao , Anuar Maryam A. , Dinglasan Ma. Franchezka Leanne H. , Mariano Haille Balle R.
Published: March 2022

This study focuses on investigating the Challenges in an Online Business Faced by the Junior and Senior High School Student-Entrepreneurs in Philippine School Doha, S.Y. 2021-2022. Specifically, it describes the (1) products and services the respondents provided in their online business and the (2) challenges in an online business encountered by the respondents. The study utilized the quantitative descriptive research design and made use of a validated self-made survey questionnaire. Twenty (20) Junior and Senior High School student-entrepreneurs were purposely selected as respondents of the study. The challenges in an online business included computer related skills and expertise, developing customer-owner relationship, management of finance and accounting, health and safety repercussions, limitations of business types, and privacy and security concerns. Results of the study showed that the commonly faced challenges are developing customer-owner relationships which pertains to the consumer and entrepreneur interaction which may affect the buying behavior or loyalty of the buyer, and health and safety repercussions which tackles safety measures the entrepreneurs take during production and delivery of goods to the consumer. It is therefore recommended that student-entrepreneurs or future student-entrepreneurs may recognize the challenges that they may encounter while handling an online business in order to have the capacity to adapt to the growing market. Keywords: Student-Entrepreneur; Online Business; Products and Services; Computer related skills and expertise; Developing customer-owner relationship; Management of finance and accounting; Health and safety repercussions; Limitations of business types; Privacy and security concerns
ANALYS IS OF QUALITY LEVEL HEALTH OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SCAVENGERS AT ALAK LANDFILL IN KUPANG CITY IN 2021
Authors: Radinan Yusanti , Ratu Jacob Matheos , Salmun Johny A. R.
Published: March 2022

Quality of occupational health is an effort to maintain and improve the degree of physical and mental health, which is as high as possible for workers. Scavengers are people who scavenge and make a living by picking up used goods, such as plastic, used cardboard, canned drinks, and so on, then selling them to entrepreneurs who will process them back into useful goods. The job of scavengers will be at great risk of exposure to disease because they always interact with garbage. In this study, the indicators or dimensions that make up the quality of occupational health can be seen from two aspects, namely physical and mental. The purpose of this study is to analyze the level of occupational health of scavengers at the Alak TPA in Kupang City in 2021. This research is a descriptive quantitative research type, with a sample of 37 people. The results showed that most of the Alak TPA scavengers had low quality of occupational health. This study shows that it is important to improve the quality of occupational health through efforts to manage time and workload well and maintain cleanliness at work.
Optimizing Input variables for the Artificial Neural Network Model Using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Damian Dibie, Chidubem , Sunday Egbiki
Published: March 2022

ANN models are known to give satisfactory results when it comes to simulation and ultimate prediction of events irrespective of the process as far as there are sufficient historical data which the machine learning technique can simulate. However, the process can be modified such that the ANN model can even give better results than it is giving presently; Genetic Algorithm Technique in WinGAmma software was utilized in analysing the dataset in order to select the most relevant combination of input variables from the dataset which will produce better performance of the ANN model and the output was compared with the normal ANN model which utilized all the input variables in the dataset and the GA-ANN model outperformed the ANN model with all input variables, which goes on the show the GA technique is very reliable and a welcome technique in selecting input variables for the optimal performance of the ANN model in simulation and prediction of events. The event simulated in this work is the Daily suspended sediment load with several input variables ranging from present and antecedent parameters of Discharge, Sediment Discharge and Suspended Sediment load. Although the result of the ANN model with all 7 input variables was satisfactory, but the GA-ANN model gave a much better result with lesser but more relevant input variables as selected by the GA technique.
O trabalho docente no contexto do neoliberalismo: uma caracterização teórico-documental com recorte a partir de 2017 no Brasil
Authors:   , Aleixo Alexsandra Saboia Duarte Arruda
Published: March 2022

Esta pesquisa teve como propósito investigar as principais ações determinadas pelas forças neoliberais que influenciaram/influenciam na desvalorização profissional do professor da educação básica nos últimos anos no Brasil. É um estudo sobre o fenômeno neoliberal que, em prol do crescimento do capitalismo, tanto interfere no trabalho do professor. Buscou-se i) instigar nos trabalhadores docentes uma percepção ontológica sobre a categoria de trabalho, ii) investigar as ações neoliberais no campo da educação para o campo do trabalho docente e iii) instigar o retorno do debate ao pertencimento de classe a partir dos apontamentos da pesquisa. Este estudo se baseia na explanação acerca da teoria de valor de trabalho oriunda da Economia Política e reconfigurada por Marx, base teórica importante para o entendimento acerca do movimento entre o liberalismo, o neoliberalismo e a crítica colocada. A crítica que se apresenta neste estudo está fundamentada, principalmente, em Marx, Hunt, Lautzenheiser, Paulo Neto, Frigotto, Laval, Antunes, Saviani e outros autores histórico-críticos que possibilitam análises sobre os dados. Apoiou-se também em Zeichner, Pimenta e Tardif para contextualizar acerca da junção entre teoria e prática docente e a efetiva formação profissional. Teve-se como fonte de informações e de análise trabalhos acadêmicos, leis, notícias de jornais e revistas, dados e documentos publicados em sites oficiais, como o do MEC e o dos Organismos Internacionais. Trata-se de uma pesquisa documental, para a qual se utilizou o método materialismo histórico-dialético, que, por meio da historicização e contextualização, dá o suporte para compreensão do corpus, que é referente à educação básica e, pela dinamicidade da pesquisa, engloba a educação profissional. A partir disso, teve-se um importante paralelo do que está prestes a acontecer com o trabalho dos professores da educação básica, diante do que já é real com os professores da educação profissional no Brasil. Um exemplo é a bolsa-formação trabalhador, que se resume a subcontratações de professores. Além disso, este estudo questiona a defesa do conceito de notório saber, que, baseado no sistema de produção toyotista, na prática, se desdobra em formação técnica aligeirada para um desempenho profissional docente insuficiente de fundamentos teóricos cujas importâncias são indispensáveis no esclarecimento dos fatos. Palavras-chave: Neoliberalismo. Trabalho docente. Relação capital/trabalho. Precarização do trabalho.
Cytogenomics in Coffea L.
Authors:   , Sattler Mariana Cansian
Published: March 2022

The genus Coffea comprises ~124 species, including C. arabica and C. canephora, which are responsible for the commercial production of coffee beans. Although most cytogenomic researches are focused on commercial species and its relatives, efforts have been made to expand the scope to wild species. However, molecular cytogenetic data are still limited to karyotype organization, especially due to low quality of the cytogenetic preparations. Considering this, the present work is focused on the cytogenomics of Coffea species. The first chapter provides an up to date review on the history of Coffea cytogenomics, initiating with the first classical cytogenetic studies, encompassing the main challenges and landmarks in cytogenetics and genomics, as well as their integration. These cytogenomic data allowed us to understand the phylogenetic relationships in Coffea, as well as their genomic origins, highlighting the relatively recent events of allopolyploidy. These events include the origin of the allotetraploid C. arabica (2n = 4x = 44, C. canephora x C. eugenioides) and the allotriploid hybrid ‘Hibrido de Timor (2n =3 x = 33, C. arabica x C. canephora). The second chapter is devoted to the study of repetitive sequences (repeatome) of the C. eugenioides genome, by integrating bioinformatic tools with cytogenetic mapping. We showed that repetitive sequences comprise ~47% of C. eugenioides genome, with mobile elements representing 45%. The Ty3/Gypsy to Ty1/Copia ratio was high (32:4), as also observed for other Coffea species. We mapped three Ty1/Copia (Bianca, TAR and Tork) and one Ty3/Gypsy (Athila) LTR-retrotransposon in metaphase chromosomes and interphase nuclei of C. eugenioides. Their distribution exhibited a clustered pattern throughout different chromosomes and regions of the chromosomes. The results obtained here are unprecedented for Coffea. Thus, we hope they lay the background for further investigations regarding Coffea cytogenomics. Keywords: Coffee. Molecular Cytogenetics. Polyploidy. Genomics. Repeatome. Mobile Elements.
UPAYA PENINGKATAN KEMAMPUAN SISWA PADA SENI KRIYA MEMBENTUK BERBAHAN PVC DENGAN TEKNIK SAMBUNG DAN PAHAT DI KELAS XI.IPS2 SMAN 1 CIGUGUR
Authors: Sudrajat Yayat
Published: March 2022

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk meningkatkan kemampuan siswa kelas XI.IPS2 SMAN 1 Cigugur yang berjumlah 26 orang siswa pada ‘seni kriya membentuk’ berbahan PVC dengan menggunakan teknik sambung dan pahat. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian tindakan kelas dengan mengimplementasikan model penelitian Kemmis dan McTaggart yang dilaksanakan dalam 2 siklus. Untuk mendapatkan data yang diperlukan dalam penelitian ini menggunakan teknik observasi, wawancara, dan penilaian produk. Selanjutnya pengolahan datanya menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dan kualitatif. Hasil observasi pada siklus II menunjukkan adanya peningkatan aktivitas belajar siswa mencapai 92% dan aktivitas guru mencapai 100%. Sedangkan hasil belajarnya telah menunjukkan nilai rata-rata kelas sebesar 89 dan seluruh siswa dinyatakan tuntas dalam pembelajaran tersebut. Selain itu, respon yang ditunjukkan siswa terhadap pembelajaran sangat baik. Mereka sangat menyenangi pembelajaran tersebut yang menggunakan teknik sambung dan pahat pada kriya berbahan paralon.