bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual-energy phase retrieval algorithm for inline phase sensitive x-ray imaging system
Authors: Ghani Muhammad U. , Yan Aimin , Fajardo Laurie. L. , Wu Xizeng , Liu Hong
Published: July 2021

Phase retrieval is vital for quantitative x-ray phase contrast imaging. This work presents an iterative method to simultaneously retrieve the x-ray absorption and phase images from a single x-ray exposure. The proposed approach uses the photon-counting detectors’ energy-resolving capability in providing multiple spectrally resolved phase contrast images from a single x-ray exposure. The retrieval method is derived, presented, and experimentally tested with a multi-material phantom in an inline phase contrast imaging setup. By separating the contributions of photoelectric absorption and Compton scattering to the attenuation, the authors divide the phase contrast image into two portions, the attenuation map arises from photoelectric absorption and a pseudo phase contrast image generated by electron density. This way one can apply the Phase Attenuation Dualiby (PAD) algorithm and Fresnel propagation for the iteration. The retrieval results from the experimental images show that this iterative method is fast, accurate, robust against noise, and thus yields noticeable enhancement in contrast to noise ratios.
Spatial periodicities inside the Talbot effect: understanding, control and applications for lithography
Authors: Chausse Pierre , Shields Philip
Published: July 2021

Displacement Talbot Lithography (DTL) is a simple patterning technique for creating periodic sub-micron features on wafer areas up to 200 mm diameter for applications in, for example, plasmonic, photonic crystals, and metamaterials. It exploits the diffraction and interference generally avoided in classical lithography. The Talbot effect, on which DTL is based, is the periodic spatial repetition of a periodic mask illuminated by coherent light. The modelling of this phenomenon is essential to fully understand and predict the interference pattern obtained; for mask periods greater than twice the wavelength, new spatial periodicities are generally introduced that are smaller than the Talbot length. This study reports simulations of multiple 1D masks to explain the influence of these smaller spatial periodicities on the Talbot effect. By changing the mask configuration, one can tailor the spatial periodicity contributions and thus, control the feature size, uniformity, and contrast for Talbot-effect-based lithography.
High speed imaging of spectral-temporal correlations in Hong-Ou-Mandel interference
Authors: Zhang Yingwen , England Duncan , Nomerotski Andrei , Sussman Benjamin
Published: July 2021

In this work we demonstrate spectral-temporal correlation measurements of the Hong-Ou-Mandel (HOM) interference effect with the use of a spectrometer based on a photon-counting camera. This setup allows us to take, within seconds, spectral temporal correlation measurements on entangled photon sources with sub-nanometer spectral resolution and nanosecond timing resolution. Through post processing, we can observe the HOM behaviour for any number of spectral filters of any shape and width at any wavelength over the observable spectral range. Our setup also offers great versatility in that it is capable of operating at a wide spectral range from the visible to the near infrared and does not require a pulsed pump laser for timing purposes. This work offers the ability to gain large amounts of spectral and temporal information from a HOM interferometer quickly and efficiently and will be a very useful tool for many quantum technology applications and fundamental quantum optics research.
Single-shot spectrally resolved interferometry for the simultaneous measurement of the thickness and surface profile of multilayer films
Authors: Ghim Young-Sik , Seo Yong Bum , Joo Ki-Nam , Rhee Hyug-Gyo
Published: July 2021

We present a single-shot spectrally-resolved interferometry for simultaneously measuring the film thickness and surface profile of each layer of a patterned multilayer film structure. For this purpose, we implemented an achromatic phase shifting method based on the geometric phase using the polarization characteristics of the light and obtained four phase-shifted interferograms in the spectrally-resolved fringe pattern at the same time by combining a pixelated polarizing camera with an imaging spectrometer. As a result, we could simultaneously measure the reflectance and phase of the sample over a wide wavelength range with a single measurement. To evaluate the validity of the proposed method, we measured a patterned five-layer film specimen and compared our measurement results with those from commercial instruments, an ellipsometer and a stylus profiler, respectively. We confirmed the results matched each other well.
Mapping the second and third order nonlinear susceptibilities in a thermally poled microimprinted niobium borophosphate glass
Authors: Rajaofara Zakaniaina , Leproux Philippe , Dussauze Marc , Tonello Alessandro , Rodriguez Vincent , Karam Lara , Kano Hideaki , Duclére Jean-René , Couderc Vincent
Published: July 2021

Multiplex coherent anti-stokes Raman scattering (M-CARS) and second harmonic generation (SHG) techniques are used to map the real part of the nonresonant third order nonlinear optical susceptibility and the second order nonlinear optical susceptibility of a thermally microimprinted niobium borophosphate glass. In particular, such bimodal nonlinear imaging is employed in order to precisely evaluate how thermal poling can modify the amplitude of the nonresonant third-order nonlinearity of the sample. A systematic decrease of the M-CARS intensity is found in the poled areas with respect to the unpoled ones, suggesting therefore a reduction of the real part of the nonresonant third order nonlinear susceptibility within these regions. Such a reduction in the M-CARS intensity can be explained by sodium depletion in the subanodic zone and is mostly linked to the reduction of both the matter density and the linear refractive index, in agreement with earlier works on thermal poling on the same family of glasses.
Technological transition and market structure: The switch-off and local television in Italy
Authors: Mangani Andrea , Pacini Barbara
Published: July 2021

Media scholars raised several concerns about the digital television transition implemented at the beginning of this millennium. The impact of the transition on local TV systems is a crucial issue, because many small- and medium-sized enterprises may not be prepared to switch to a new technology and may exit the market. This article studies the survival of local TV stations in Italy during the transition to digital television. The empirical analysis shows that the adoption of the digital system is associated with a sharp decrease of the probability of survival of local TV broadcasters. While this result confirms that local media struggle to compete in the digital world, the overall assessment at the national level is not straightforward, given the imbalance between many local TV stations and scarce economic resources before the switch-off.
Brains on the asphalt: Three punk expressions of crisis
Authors: Burolo Franko
Published: July 2021

Since its crisis-marked beginnings, punk’s relationship with anarchism could be described as ‘complicated’. In spite of the wide use of the word and the circled ‘A’ symbol, not every artist considered anarchy in its political meaning of radical egalitarianism and libertarian socialism. This article explores the ‘impulse of anarchy’ in punk, as considered by Edoardo Sanguineti, as a more-than-political aesthetic phenomenon present in all avant-garde poetry (and arts in general) in modern history, consciously or not, whose ultimate goal is to change life and modify the world. Through this perspective, the article presents a comparative analysis of three expressions of crisis by three different punk groups from three different European countries, in three different languages: ‘Možgani na asfaltu’ (‘Brains on the Asphalt’) in Slovene by Berlinski zid from (then) Yugoslavia, ‘Lasciateci sentire ora’ (‘Let Us Hear Now’) in Italian by Franti from Italy and ‘Crisis’ in English by Poison Girls from the United Kingdom. The article will thus try to contribute to the understanding of anarchist and anarchic influences in coping with crisis under international capitalism and bourgeois hegemony.
Uterine Rupture - Risk Factors and Pregnancy Outcome in Bundelkhand Region
Authors: Jain Sheela
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND Uterine rupture is defined as the tearing of the muscular wall of the uterus during pregnancy or labour.1 Often it occurs from the tearing of previous caesarean scar during labour.2 The other known risk factors for uterine rupture include, maternal age, height, body mass index (BMI), education, birth weight, gestational age, induction of labour, instrumental vaginal delivery, interpregnancy interval, congenital uterine anomaly, grand multiparity, previous uterine surgery, fetal macrosomia, fetal malposition, obstructed labour, uterine instrumentation, attempted forceps delivery, external version, and uterine trauma. 2-6This study was done to find out the prevailing risk factors associated with this grave condition in Bundelkhand region, so that mortality and morbidity associated with it could be prevented. METHODS We have studied 37 cases of uterine rupture, operated in our institution from Jan. 2018 to Oct. 2019. During this period a total of 2986 Caesarean sections (CS) were performed. Of these 37 cases, 5 were Nullipara (13.51 %), 16 primipara (31.25 %) and 16 were grand multipara (31.25 %). 24 cases (64.86 %) had previous uterine scar while 13 (35.13 %) had no scar. RESULTS In our study major risk factors for uterine rupture were found to be previous scars (64.68 %). Obstructive labour (23.07 %), malpresentation (7.69 %), grand multiparity (38.46 %) and prolong labour (30.76 %), were responsible for rupture in unscarred uterus. In all cases we first tried to repair the tear and only 9 (24.32 %) needed hysterectomy. In our study 28 patients (75.67 %) required only repair whereas 24.32 % cases needed hysterectomy. Maternal death was just 1 case (2.7 %) and (51.35 %) babies survived. CONCLUSIONS Majority of uterine rupture cases were found in women who had previous CS. So, first CS should be performed after very careful understanding of its indications. 2.7 % maternal mortality and 51.35 % delivery of live birth babies in our study proves that early detection and proper managing of the case can reduce maternal and fetal mortality in uterine rupture cases. KEY WORDS Uterine Rupture, Previous Scar, Inter-Pregnancy Interval
Perception about COVID-19 among Dental Students of a Tertiary Care Dental Hospital, Bangalore - A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Johnson Nigy , Y Shweta Somasundara , Bhat Padma K. , Kumar Santhosh , M Nayana , M.Y. Jayachandra , Halageri Karishma S. , Kumar Subodh
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND During the lockdown period of COVID-19 pandemic, dental colleges in Bangalore, India, had switched to online dental education and when the cases started to decline, the dental colleges finally welcomed students on campus in November 2020 following the Government directions. Majority of the dental procedures produce droplets and aerosols in a dental practice. In this context, the standard protective measures are not enough in the daily dental practice during this pandemic. Dental professionals, students in particular should be aware of the main symptoms of COVID-19, its mode of transmission and precautions to be adopted in the dental practice so as to break the chain of infection. The purpose of the study was to investigate the perception regarding COVID-19 among the dental students of a dental teaching institution in Bangalore city. METHODS An online questionnaire was created to assess the perception about COVID-19 among dental students. Total enumeration method was followed, and undergraduates, interns and post graduate students of a tertiary care dental hospital participated in the online survey. chi-square goodness of fit test was used to compare the differences in the distribution of respondents and independent chi- square test was used to do the comparison in the difference of responses towards the study questionnaire between the students studying in different undergraduate years; with level of significance set at P < 0.05. RESULTS About 380 dental students participated in the online survey; correct response rate was slightly higher among clinical dental students than pre-clinical students. Educational and training programmes related to COVID-19, infection control and practices were implemented at the institution for the dental professionals in the academic level. CONCLUSIONS The perception about COVID-19 among pre-clinical dental students were slightly lower than the clinical students. KEY WORDS Clinical, COVID-19, Dental Students, Pre-Clinical
Effect of Treatment of Vaginal Infection on Quality of Sexual Life – A Study from Tehran, Iran
Authors: Alahverdi Fatemeh , Kheirkhah Masoomeh
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND Several factors affect the quality of sexual life. Vaginitis may impair the quality of life and lowers the self-esteem of a woman by distorting the mental image of her body. So far, no study has been done on the effectiveness of vaginitis treatment on the quality of sexual life. Therefore, considering the importance of quality of sexual life in family relationships, the present study was designed and conducted to determine the effects of vulvovaginitis treatment on women’s quality of sexual life. METHODS This experimental study was conducted on patients visiting Imam Sajjad Hospital in Shahriyar from 2017 to 2018. The Inclusion criteria in the study were as follows: having one of the vaginal infections, i.e., Candidiasis, Gardnerella, or mixed infection (both Candidiasis and Gardnerella) diagnosed by a specialist. The subjects filled in the quality of sexual life questionnaires before treatment and 2 months after the treatment. Data analysis was done by SPSS version 16 with paired t - test, univariate analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), analysis of variance, and multiple regression test. The P - value < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS In each of the three groups (candidiasis, Gardnerella, and mixed infection), the quality of sexual life differed before and after treatment, therefore the treatment improved the patients’ quality of life significantly. Mean and standard deviation of the quality of sexual life in Candidiasis group before and after treatments were 68.97 ± 19.59 and 75.82 ± 8.46 respectively; in Gardnerella group: 69.28 ± 19.04, 14.14 ± 72.15, and in the mixed group, they were 66.59 ± 18.91, 71.61 ± 13.47 respectively. In all three groups, the components of personal feelings and sexual life before and after treatment were different (P < 0.001). The regression test proved the effects of such variables as education, body mass index (BMI) and duration of infection on the quality of sexual life (P < 0.05), and the greatest effect was related to the duration of infection with a coefficient of - 0.342. CONCLUSIONS After treating the vaginal infections, these women's quality of sexual life improved. As a result, it can be concluded that the diagnosis and treatment of the disease can enhance the quality of sexual life. KEY WORDS Quality of Life, Quality of Sexual Life, Vaginitis, Treatment
Letrozole Versus Clomiphene Citrate for Superovulation in Intrauterine Insemination Cycles - Retrospective Comparative Study Conducted in the Department of Reproductive Medicine, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College & Hospital, Jaipur
Authors: Chishti Jawahira , Chowdhary Jai , Paliwal Archana , Sharma Chetan Kumar , Choudhary Manisha
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND Superovulation with intrauterine insemination (IUI) increases the probability of pregnancy by increasing number of oocytes and sperm density. The main oral agents used for superovulation are clomiphene citrate and letrozole. Clomiphene citrate a selective estrogen receptor modulator with predominant antiestrogenic action has adverse effects on endometrium and cervical mucous. Letrozole an aromatase inhibitor acts by reducing estrogen production by blocking androgen conversion to estrogen in ovary and peripheral tissues without affecting endometrium and cervical mucous. We wanted to compare the efficacy of letrozole v/s clomiphene citrate as first line ovulation induction drug in infertile patients undergoing IUI. METHODS Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, we included 160 patients in our study. They were divided into two groups of 80 each based on the drug given for ovulation induction. The drug was given for 5 days from D3 to D7 of menstrual cycle. IUI was done 38 - 40 hours after trigger and after confirmation of ovulation by sonography. RESULTS The mean age, body mass index (BMI), duration of infertility, type and cause of infertility in both groups were similar. Ovulation rate was 85 % in letrozole group and 71.25 % in clomiphene citrate group, which was statistically significant (P0.035). There was no statistically significant difference between endometrial thickness and total days till ovulation between two groups. Monofolliculogenesis and clinical pregnancy rate were statistically significantly higher in letrozole group. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows that letrozole has better pregnancy rate in comparison to clomiphene citrate (C. C.) in IUI cycles with less risk of anovulation, thin endometrium and multi follicular growth. KEY WORDS Clomiphene Citrate (C.C.), Letrozole (LTZ), Ovulation Induction (OI), Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
Knowledge and Practice Regarding Periodontal Health / Disease and Oral Hygiene among Medical, Ayurveda and Homeopathy Undergraduate Students of Yenepoya University, Mangalore - A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: U. Raghavendra
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND The attitude towards oral health reflects the overall health. Knowledge of health care professionals and their attitudes toward oral care corresponds to their understanding of the importance of preventive dental procedure and improving the oral health of patients. We wanted to assess the knowledge and practice regarding periodontal health / disease and oral hygiene among medical, ayurveda and homeopathy undergraduate students of Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University) (YU) and also determine their attitude and awareness towards oral health. METHODS The data related to their knowledge and practice towards the oral health was assembled using a self administered, validated questionnaire containing 13 questions which had multiple choice answers. The questionnaire was distributed through Google form among 341 medical, ayurveda and homeopathy undergraduate students of YU aged more than 17 years. RESULTS Survey responses were downloaded onto Google sheets and the data collected were coded, entered in Microsoft Excel and analysed using SPSS version 23 (Chicago, USA). Majority of study participants in different colleges showed lack of knowledge and practice regarding oral hygiene practices. To compare the mean scores of three colleges under YU for knowledge based and practice questions, ANOVA was performed. There was no significant difference found in knowledge and practice towards oral hygiene among medical, ayurveda and homeopathy colleges of YU. P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Professional health care students who will be the future backbone of the community health care have limited knowledge on periodontal disease and oral hygiene practices. There is no difference in knowledge and practices regarding oral hygiene among the students of medical, ayurveda and homeopathy colleges of YU. It highlights the need of incorporating oral health education in University curriculum for non dental students during their study period. KEY WORDS Knowledge, Practice, Periodontal Disease, Oral Hygiene Practices, Non-Dental Students, Oral Health Education
Clinical and Etiological Profile of Mycotic Keratitis from a Tertiary Care Centre in South India
Authors: Augustin John Britto , Variamkandi Sureshbaboo
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND Corneal ulcer is the leading cause of ocular morbidity and monocular blindness worldwide. To effectively prevent blindness in patients with corneal ulcer, a proper understanding of the risk factors predisposing to ulceration, its clinical and microbiological characteristics are essential. Timely identification of aetiological agents causing corneal ulcers and their prompt treatment helps to save the vision. We wanted to detect aetiological agents of corneal ulcer with special references to fungal causes and characterize the fungal aetiological agents to species level. METHODS This is a cross sectional study, conducted in Government Medical college, Kozhikode, between January 2016 and June 2017. All patients who were clinically diagnosed as cases of infectious corneal ulcer in the Ophthalmology department, Government Medical College, Kozhikode were included in the study. Corneal scrapings collected from the infected eye were subjected to microbiological examination and culture. A total of 120 cases were analysed. Each patient was examined with the slit lamp bio microscope after staining with fluorescein. Scrapings from cornea at the site of corneal ulcer were collected by ophthalmologist after a detailed clinical history and examination of the affected eye. The laboratory procedures used in the diagnosis of infectious keratitis were based on direct visualization of organisms by subjecting corneal scrapings to Gram stain and KOH wet mount and inoculation of material on to blood agar and Sabouraud dextrose agar. RESULTS Among the 120 cases, a total of 49 cases were culture positive. Twenty-one [17.5 %] were bacterial, twenty-two [18.34 %] were fungal and six [5.0 %] were poly microbial [bacteria and fungus]. Among the fungal aetiology, fusarium species was most common [32.14 %], followed by aspergillus species - 25.0 %. Trauma was the major risk factor. Diabetes mellitus, exposure keratitis were the other comorbidities / risk factors. CONCLUSIONS This study shows majority of infected corneal ulcers are associated with risk factors and the aetiology are mainly fungi. Microscopy, culture, and clinical correlation helped in adequate management. Thus, prognosis and outcome of corneal ulcers rely on timely identification of their aetiology and prompt treatment. KEY WORDS Corneal ulcer, Fungal Keratitis
Correlation of Obesity and Flat-Foot in Haemophilic Adolescents in Karad
Authors: Dsouza Shruti Raphael , Gangane Gauri Ramesh , Malawade Mandar Ramesh
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND Haemophilic patients are more prone to obesity, due to physical inactivity which is a predisposing factor for structural and functional deformities. In obese people, long term loading has negative impact on lower limb and foot, which causes deformities like flat-foot. In foot, the primary component responsible for absorption and dissipation of forces is medial longitudinal arch and in flat-foot this arch is collapsed. Flat-foot causes pain and discomfort during weight bearing activities. In Haemophilic patients, obesity and flat-foot lead to further postural complications. As no study has been conducted on this topic before, we decided to study on this. The objectives of this study were to assess obesity, flat-foot and co relate obesity and flat-foot in Haemophilic adolescents. METHODS Height and weight of participants were measured to calculate BMI. Total 36 participants were chosen for this study. The subjects were assessed for flat-foot by using Staheli’s Plantar Arch Index. Footprints were taken to calculate the plantar index. The Staheli’s Plantar Arch Index was measured by dividing the width of central region by width of heel region on footprint, which was calculated as: a line tangent to the medial edge of forefoot and heel region, then a perpendicular line was drawn medially to laterally from mid - point of tangent line in central region of footprint (A) and similarly another perpendicular was drawn from heel region (B). The plantar index was then calculated by dividing value A with value B. RESULTS Flat-foot was seen in 25 % population having BMI between 33 - 35. Our data also suggested that age affects the medial arch of foot, the elder population showed increased percentage of flat-foot than the younger group. Individuals with type A haemophilia had increased percentage of flat-foot when compared with type B haemophiliacs, as type A haemophilia is considered severe type. CONCLUSIONS The results show that there is high prevalence of flat-foot in haemophilic patients, this requires rehabilitation and can help prevent further complications. KEY WORDS Haemophilia, Obesity, Flat-foot
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) – Role of Dentist
Authors: Aradya Anupama , Nagarajagowda Raghavendra Swamy Koodalakuppe , Venu Aradya Hiriyannaiah , Srinivas Sowmya , Char Ganesh Somashekara , Iyer Meenakshi Srinivasa
Published: July 2021

BACK GR O U ND Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is highly prevalent across populations with varied manifestations and substantial morbidity. Our review focuses mainly on the role of dental practitioner in GERD, its oral manifestations and management. GERD shows oesophageal and extra oesophageal syndromes. Oesophageal syndromes are reflux chest pain syndrome, typical reflux syndrome, reflux stricture, reflux esophagitis, oesophageal adenocarcinoma and Barrett’s oesophagus. Extra oesophageal syndromes are reflux cough syndrome, reflux asthma syndrome, reflux dental erosion syndrome, reflux laryngitis syndrome, pharyngitis, and sinusitis. Classic reflux symptoms may be absent in more than half the patients presenting with extra oesophageal symptoms. For this reason, the first provisional diagnosis of GERD may be made by a dental practitioner as a result of clinical observation of enamel erosion. A direct association exists between gastroesophageal reflux disease and oral cavity diseases. Dental practitioner can recognise the secondary manifestations of GERD for early diagnosis and can assist in management of these patients. Traditional management of GERD includes medical therapy, non-medical therapy and surgical therapy, in future dental examination and dental treatment can also be included. There is a lack of awareness among the general physicians regarding the association between GERD and dental erosions. According to the study, 40 % of them are aware of dental erosions in GERD, indicating that there is a need to circulate this information through medical education. There should be an interdisciplinary coordination between family physician, dentist, orthodontist, prosthodontist, and gastroenterologist for treatment of oral manifestations resulting from GERD. This review highlights the role of dental practitioner in management of GERD. KEY WORDS Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Dental Erosion, Oesophagus, Gastric acid, Saliva
Challenges of COVID-19 and Tuberculosis - Urgent Need to Tackle the Dual Burden
Authors: Dolma Karma Gurmey , Mahboob Tooba , Pereira Maria de Lourdes , Wiart Christophe , Khandelwal Bidita , Rahmatullah Mohammed , Nissapatorn Veeranoot
Published: July 2021

The COVID-19 disease has currently overwhelmed all other health issues throughout the world. There can be many repercussions on existing public health issues, especially tuberculosis (TB), which is endemic in many low and middle-income countries (LMICs). In most of the LMICs, the health services are poorly equipped, the resources being diverted to control the pandemic of COVID-19, which can lead to grave consequences for LMICs. COVID-19 and TB are known to affect the respiratory system, so their symptoms are very similar, and at times can be perplexing for diagnosis. Moreover, lack of proper treatment and vaccine for COVID-19 can further increase the mounting pressure. Synthetic drugs, such as hydroxychloroquine, are currently being used, but the side effects are a cause of concern. Hence, the efficacy of repositioned drugs is still under evaluation. The situation is further worsened by the possible development of drug-resistant mutants. What we need in current times is potential novel anti-viral drugs that are highly productive and economic in control and management of viral infections in LMICs. The only option which we can look upon is the natural products which are also known as bioactive compounds and their phytochemicals like flavonoids, alkaloids and peptides that have anti-viral secondary metabolites which have shown promising results on COVID-19. This review systematically emphasizes the urgency for treatment options, which can be both safe and effective, especially for TB patients from LMICs. KEY WORDS Tuberculosis, COVID-19, Low and Middle Income Countries, Natural products, AntiViral Agents
Saliva as a Potential Diagnostic Tool for SARS–CoV-2
Authors: Khemka Aakriti , Arora Manpreet , Dave Aparna , Saluja Pulin , Rai Radhika
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND COVID 19 has been labelled as a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). The sudden rise in death toll and devastation associated with it has put the entire infrastructure, economy and health sector to test. The only way for the prevention and control of this infectious disease is rapid and accurate screening of masses. Public Health Authorities mainly use antibody testing in hot spots using a mix of RT-PCR and antibody testing nasopharyngeal and orpharyngeal swabs. Considering the potential risk factors, constraints of time, cost and manpower, mass screening for COVID is not possible through nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs alone. Hence, to search an alternate method to diagnose for the initial screening of patients is the need of the hour globally. Saliva can also be used as one of the diagnostic modalities for coronavirus, helping in the rapid testing of individuals at home or at hospital. The article intends to explain the evidence regarding the reliability of saliva as a diagnostic specimen in COVID-19 patients and demonstrates the association and potential of detecting novel coronavirus in saliva of patients and how its implication in future can aid in diagnosis as a non - invasive diagnostic modality. KEY WORDS COVID 19, Throat Swab, Nasopharyngeal Swab, Saliva, Diagnostic Fluid
A Review on Poly-Lactic-Co-Glycolic Acid as a Unique Carrier for Controlled and Targeted Delivery Drugs
Authors: K. Prakash Raj , K. Kathiresan , P. Pandian
Published: July 2021

In regulated and targeted drug distribution, biodegradable polymers have played a significant portion. Poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) has been an important desirable polymer in tissue engineering to meet a new drug delivery system. PLGAs, show a broad spectrum of erosion cycles and have tuning mechanical characteristics. Poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) has been the most successful polymeric biomaterial for use in controlled drug delivery systems. PLGA has been extensively studied, in particular, in the production of equipment for controlled distribution in industrial and research applications of small molecules, protein, and other macromolecules. PLGA is biocompatible and biodegradable, exhibits a wide range of erosion times, has tunable mechanical properties and most importantly, is a FDA approved polymer. PLGA has many properties such as controlled and sustained release, low cancerinducing, long-standing biomedical applications, biocompatibility with tissues and cells, and prolonged residence time. It is otherwise called as 'Smart Polymer' because improvements are fragile to conduct PLGA that has been widely examined in industrial and academic applications to produce instruments for the target delivery of tiny molecular drugs, proteins, and other large molecules. An introduction about the chemistry, physicochemical properties, manufacturing techniques of the devices, toxicity, and the reason influencing their decrease and release of the drug was given in the present study. Mathematical modelling is a useful tool for identifying, characterizing, and predicting the mechanisms of controlled release. Mathematical modelling applied against the target from PLGA – the devices has been clarified by discussing in the review, by explaining the underlying mathematical models and how this is used. KEY WORDS Biodegradable Polymers, PLGA, Biodegradability, Macromolecules
Infected Thyroglossal Duct Cyst – A Diagnostic Dilemma
Authors: Sathawane Ramhari Shankarrao , Bhakte Kshitija Sanjay , Moharkar Prajkta Sathawane , Sukhadeve Vidyarjan Ashok , Chincholkar Mrunali Gajanan
Published: July 2021

Neck swellings are usually the most visible and noticeable pathologies. These swellings include enlarged lymph nodes, swellings of thyroid gland, congenital / developmental cysts and lipomas.1 Cystic congenital neck masses are usually very well diagnosed in childhood. Congenital cystic masses of the anterior neck include thyroglossal duct cyst (TDC), branchial cleft cyst & cystic hygromas from uncommon pathologies to very rare thymic and bronchogenic cysts.2 Painless and soft or fluctuant nature of neck mass is usually the first clinical presentation in most cases. Ultrasonography (USG) helps to define the size, shape and extent of mass and confirms the cystic nature of lesion, whereas histopathological examination is the gold standard.3 The purpose of this article is to impress upon all that USG is an adjuvant imaging modality which helps in diagnosing cystic nature of the neck lesions. But most of the time, it cannot differentiate between dermoid cyst and thyroglossal cyst. The present case of infected thyroglossal duct cyst was reported to have diagnostic dilemma between clinical diagnosis and sonographic diagnosis. Histopathological examination confirmed the clinical diagnosis of Infected TDC.
Genital Filariasis - A Recurred Case of Post Operated Hydrocele
Authors: Shete Mahima Laxmikant , Hodiwala Anahita V. Bhesania
Published: July 2021

Lymphatic filariasis, commonly termed as elephantiasis has been recorded since ancient Indian, Chinese, Egyptian and Persian writings.1 It is caused by a slender thread like nematode called Wuchereria bancrofti belonging to super family filaroidea.2 It exists in two morphological forms: Adult form and larvae. The adult form has a predilection for intrascrotal lymphatic vessels in hosts; thus hydrocele is one of the most common manifestations of bancroftian filariasis.3 Individuals having circulating microfilaria are outwardly healthy but have the ability to transmit infection to others through mosquito bites (Culex quinquefasciatus) 1 In developing countries like India, occurrence of genital filarial hydrocele is more common in people living in bancroftian endemic areas or in people who were previously operated for eversion of sac. We hereby report a case of hydrocele fluid with microfilaria- an incidental finding on microscopy. Wuchereria bancroti a filarial nematode inhabiting the lymphatics and transmitted through vector - culex mosquito. We hereby present a case of recurrence of genital filariasis. The patient presented with swelling of the left scrotal region with pain of dragging type. On evaluation, eosinophilia was not seen. He had a history of right hydrocele 28 years back. The aspirated hydrocele on direct microscopic examination showed presence of actively motile microfilaria which was confirmed on Giemsa staining. Recurrence is more common in bancroftian filarial endemic areas.
Seed storage studies in Mesua ferrea L. a medicinal tree of Indo-Malayan region
Authors: Mithun V , Pradeep N S , Krishnan P N
Published: July 2021

This paper, deals with testing the storage and viability of the seeds of Mesua ferrea L. in 5 different storage conditions. Seeds of M. ferrea are recalcitrant in nature and lose viability with a short span 8-15 days. Of the different conventional methods tried using the polycarbonate bottle and bags, M. ferrea seeds retained viability for 150 days with a slow moisture loss from the seeds stored in closed polycarbonate bottles at 10 °C. Here, we have standardised a conventional technique whereby the viability of the seeds can be extended to 150-180 days by storing the seeds in polycarbonate bottles at 10 °C.
Non Kählerian surfaces with a cycle of rational curves
Authors: Dloussky Georges
Published: July 2021

Let S be a compact complex surface in class VII0
+ containing a cycle of rational curves C = ∑Dj
. Let D = C + A be the maximal connected divisor containing C. If there is another connected component of curves C
′ then C
′ is a cycle of rational curves, A = 0 and S is a Inoue-Hirzebruch surface. If there is only one connected component D then each connected component Ai
of A is a chain of rational curves which intersects a curve Dj
of the cycle and for each curve Dj
of the cycle there at most one chain which meets Dj
. In other words, we do not prove the existence of curves other those of the cycle C, but if some other curves exist the maximal divisor looks like the maximal divisor of a Kato surface with perhaps missing curves. The proof of this topological result is an application of Donaldson theorem on trivialization of the intersection form and of deformation theory. We apply this result to show that a twisted logarithmic 1-form has a trivial vanishing divisor.
Study of biological activities and physicochemical properties of Yamú (Brycon siebenthalae) viscera hydrolysates in sodium alginate-based edible coating solutions
Authors: Carranza-Saavedra Darwin , Zapata-Montoya José Edgar , Váquiro-Herrera Henry Alexander , Solanilla-Duque José Fernando
Published: July 2021

The fishing industry produces waste such as viscera, which is an environmental problem for many countries. Obtaining protein from these wastes are useful for the food industry. In this study, the chemical composition, amino acid profile, solubility, digestibility and thermal properties of Yamú protein isolate (PI) and its hydrolysates obtained by enzymatic hydrolysis were characterized. The hydrolysates (0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1 and 2% w/v) were mixed with a sodium alginate-based solution to form an edible coating solution (ECS). Antioxidant capacity antimicrobial activity, Zeta potential (ζ) and adsorption kinetics properties were determined. PI contains 88% (w/w) protein showing better solubility, digestibility and thermal stability properties. The hydrolysate concentrations with DPPH inhibitory ECS were 0.1 and 0.5% (w/v). The kinetic properties of ECS showed good stability and excellent adsorption. These results suggest that this Yamú protein has high nutritional potential as an ingredient for the production of functional foods.
Translation correction of English phrases based on optimized GLR algorithm
Authors: Wang Xi
Published: July 2021

Basic syntactic analysis refers to sentence-level syntactic analysis. In the process of developing the Mat Link English–Chinese machine translation system, the Generalized Maximum Likelihood Ratio algorithm was improved, and a basic English syntax analyzer for English–Chinese translation was designed and implemented. The analyzer approves the structure of the analysis table with a variety of export products, introduces the character mapping function to realize the automatic recognition of the sentence boundary, uses the children of the same level to describe the grammatical structure of the sentence, and realizes the proverb from the original sentence to the target sentence stage conversion. Finally, through the analysis of example sentences, the design concept and working process of the basic grammar are explained.
Size-adjustment techniques of lumbar spine dual energy X-ray absorptiometry measurements in assessing bone mineralization in children on maintenance hemodialysis
Authors: Salem Nanees , Bakr Ashraf
Published: July 2021

Objectives

Growing skeleton is uniquely vulnerable to impaired mineralization in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Continued debate exists about the optimal method to adjust for body size when interpreting dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans in children with CKD given the burden of poor growth. The study aimed to evaluate the clinical usefulness of size-adjustment techniques of lumber-spine DXA measurements in assessing bone mineralization in children with kidney failure on maintenance hemodialysis (HD).

Methods

Case-control study included 93 children on maintenance HD (9–18 years; 48 males). Participants were subjected to spinal-DXA-scan to obtain areal bone mineral density (aBMD; g/cm2). Volumetric-BMD (vBMD; g/cm3) was mathematically estimated. Z-scores of aBMD for chronological age (aBMDZ-CA), aBMD adjusted for height age (aBMDZ-HA), and vBMDZ-score were calculated using mean and SD values of age subgroups of 442 healthy controls (7–18 years).

Results

In short-for-age CKD patients, aBMDZ-CA was significantly lower than vBMDZ-score, while aBMDZ-HA was significantly higher than aBMDZ-CA and vBMDZ-score. In normal height-for-age CKD patients, no significant difference between aBMDZ-scores and vBMDZ-score was detected. aBMDZ-CA was significantly lower and aBMDZ-HA was significantly higher in short-for-age compared to normal height-for-age patients without significant differences in vBMDZ-score. We observed age-related decrements in the percentage of HD patients with normal densitometric Z-scores, the effect of age was less pronounced in aBMDZ-HA than vBMDZ-score. vBMDZ-score correlated negatively with age, but not with heightZ-score.

Conclusions

Estimated vBMD seems to be a convenient size-adjustment approach of spinal-DXA measurements in assessing BMD especially in older short-for-age children with CKD. aBMDZ-CA underestimates, while aBMDZ-HA overestimates BMD in such patients.
Efficient Hierarchical Multi-Object Segmentation in Layered Graphs
Authors: Leon Leissi M.C. , Ciesielski Krzysztof C. , Miranda Paulo A.V.
Published: July 2021

We propose a novel efficient seed-based method for the multi-object segmentation of images based on graphs, named Hierarchical Layered Oriented Image Foresting Transform (HLOIFT). It uses a tree of the relations between the image objects, with each node in the tree representing an object. Each tree node may contain different individual high-level priors of its corresponding object and defines a weighted digraph, named as layer. The layer graphs are then integrated into a hierarchical graph, considering the hierarchical relations of inclusion and exclusion. A single energy optimization is performed in the hierarchical layered weighted digraph leading to globally optimal results satisfying all the high-level priors. The experimental evaluations of HLOIFT, on medical, natural, and synthetic images, indicate promising results comparable to the related baseline methods that include structural information, but with lower computational complexity. Compared to the hierarchical segmentation by the min-cut/max-flow algorithm, our approach is less restrictive, leading to globally optimal results in more general scenarios, and has a better running time.
Mathematical morphology based on stochastic permutation orderings
Authors: Lézoray Olivier
Published: July 2021

The extension of mathematical morphology to multivariate data has been an active research topic in recent years. In this paper we propose an approach that relies on the consensus combination of several stochastic permutation orderings. The latter are obtained by searching for a smooth shortest path on a graph representing an image. This path is obtained with a randomized version nearest of neighbors heuristics on a graph. The construction of the graph is of crucial importance and can be based on both spatial and spectral information to enable the obtaining of smoother shortest paths. The starting vertex of a path being taken at random, many different permutation orderings can be obtained and we propose to build a consensus ordering from several permutation orderings. We show the interest of the approach with both quantitative and qualitative results.
Developing Calligraphic Courtesan Script. Handwriting and Printing connection in Segovia during the Fifteenth century
Authors: Valero Eduardo Juárez
Published: July 2021

During the investigation of the Research Group Señoríos Medievales Segovianos in the Archive of the Diocese of Segovia an unusual document was digitized. It was a building license for Bishop Juan Arias Dávila to improve University facilities. This document was written in a different script: The Calligraphic Courtesan Script. related to traditional Courtesan script; this document was written in an especially clear writing style not connected with the usual cursive gothic styles in Castilla. This article tries to connect this clearness in the writing style with the presence of Juan Parix from Heidelberg in Segovia, who brought the first Spanish printing press to Segovia.
Environmental effects on mode II fracture toughness of unidirectional E-glass/vinyl ester laminated composites
Authors: Salamt-Talab Mazaher , Delzendehrooy Fatemeh , Akhavan-Safar Alireza , Safari Mahdi , Bahrami-Manesh Hossein , da Silva Lucas Filipe Martins
Published: July 2021

In this article, mode II fracture toughness (GIIc{G}_{\text{IIc}}) of unidirectional E-glass/vinyl ester composites subjected to sulfuric acid aging is studied at two different temperatures (25 and 90°C). Specimens were manufactured using the hand lay-up method with the[0]20{{[}0]}_{20}stacking sequence. To study the effects of environmental conditions, samples were exposed to 30 wt% sulfuric acid at room temperature (25°C) for 0, 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks. Some samples were also placed in the same solution but at 90°C and for 3, 6, 9, and 12 days to determine the interlaminar fracture toughness at different aging conditions. Fracture tests were conducted using end notched flexure (ENF) specimens according to ASTM D7905. The results obtained at 25°C showed that mode II fracture toughness increases for the first 2 weeks of aging and then it decreases for the last 8 weeks. It was also found that the flexural modulus changes with the same trend. Based on the results of the specimens aged at 90°C, a sharp drop in fracture toughness and flexural modulus with a significant decrease in maximum load have been observed due to the aging. Finite element simulations were performed using the cohesive zone model (CZM) to predict the global response of the tested beams.
The Block and Cylindrical Punch Tests for Rocks: A Statistical Comparison between the Results
Authors: Ghasemi Fatemeh , Fereidooni Davood
Published: July 2021

This research investigates relationships between the block and cylindrical punch indexes (BPI and CPI) resulted from the block punch test (BP-test) and cylindrical punch test (CP-test) using statistical analyses. For this purpose, 22 rock samples, including granite, granodiorite, diorite, limestone, marble, and skarn, were collected from some quarries all over Iran. The mineralogy and the values of the BPI and CPI were determined for the samples in the laboratory. The CPI were determined using four punching cylinders with different diameters (i.e., D = 10, 13, 16, and 19 mm). Then, the BPI was correlated to the CPIs with power relations. The results indicated that the correlations between the BPI and CPIs are getting stronger with increasing of the diameter of the punching cylinder from 10 to 19 mm. Therefore, the best and weakest relations exist between BPI with CPI-19 and CPI-10, respectively. Simple regression analyses were performed, and the accuracy performance of the regression models was evaluated by developing a scoring system using five well–known statistical indexes. The results of the regression analyses completely confirmed the correlation analysis results. The general finding of the research revelated that the CP-test could be a suitable alternative for the BP-test.