bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolução morfológica de um sistema praial induzido: Praia Mansa, enseada do Mucuripe, Fortaleza/CE
Authors: Barra Otávio Augusto de Oliveira Lima , Rabelo Davi Rodrigues , Vasconcelos Fábio Perdigão , Casemiro Maria Bonfim
Published: March 2023

A inserção de obras portuárias tende a alterar a dinâmica costeira dos sistemas praiais onde são instaladas; prova disto é o litoral urbano de Fortaleza, capital do Ceará, Região Nordeste do Brasil. A construção do Porto de Fortaleza gerou modificações importantes na configuração da linha de costa, provenientes de processos erosivos. Por décadas, observa-se a progradação no setor leste, enquanto na fachada norte-oeste, há recuo de linha de costa. Na área interna ao porto – a enseada do Mucuripe – a dinâmica sedimentar, alterada pela instalação de um prolongamento rochoso para a construção do porto, foi responsável pela formação da Praia Mansa, um sistema praial induzido e frágil do ponto de vista ecodinâmico. No ano de 2012 foi iniciada, nessa praia, a construção de um equipamento, o Terminal Marítimo de Passageiros. Este artigo tem por objetivo analisar o processo de formação da Praia Mansa e suas principais alterações morfológicas no decorrer do tempo, sobretudo após as obras do referido Terminal de Passageiros. Para tanto, foram feitos levantamentos topográficos in loco, além da análise de imagens de satélites do local. Os perfis topográficos realizados em dois anos de análise indicaram perda de mais de 100m² de área, enquanto as imagens de satélite – analisadas em períodos de tempo superiores aos da realização dos perfis – demonstraram fases erosivas bem superiores às de acreção sedimentar. Os resultados encontrados comprovaram prognósticos ambientais dantes realizados e que mostravam a fragilidade da área em questão.
Usina de Belo Monte e as concepções espaciais subjacentes ao conceito de atingido por barragem: o caso da lagoa do Independente I em Altamira-PA
Authors: Estronioli Elisa Mergulhão , Miranda Neto José Queiroz de
Published: March 2023

Este trabalho tem por objetivo identificar as diferentes concepções de espaço que embasam o conceito de atingido por barragem a partir da análise do caso dos moradores da ocupação da Lagoa do bairro Jardim Independente I, na cidade de Altamira-Pará. Os moradores da área supracitada se organizaram, junto ao Movimento dos Atingidos por Barragens (MAB), para serem reconhecidos como atingidos pela hidrelétrica de Belo Monte, em um processo de lutas que evidenciou os limites da concepção espacial utilizada no setor elétrico para definir os atingidos. O trabalho foi feito com base em dados secundários e entrevistas abertas e semiestruturadas com ex-moradores da área e de outros atores desse processo. Os resultados indicam a existência de pelo menos duas perspectivas espaciais que conformam as disputas em torno do conceito de atingido. A primeira, proveniente do setor elétrico, corresponde a uma concepção “areal” delimitada a partir do “polígono do empreendimento” (baseado na cota de inundação). Ela se relaciona à visão territorial-patrimonialista e hídrica de atingido, que prioriza o aspecto físico do espaço e oculta as relações sociais. A segunda é uma concepção espacial “humana” ou “relacional”, que considera os efeitos espaciais desses projetos de grande escala sob a lógica da totalidade, levando em conta as relações sociais na produção do espaço, incluindo as determinações de ordem política.
Análise geomorfológica com apoio de técnicas digitais: município de São Martinho da Serra – RS
Authors: Sccoti Anderson Augusto Volpato , Dotto Antonio Von Ende , Robaina Luís Eduardo de Souza
Published: March 2023

Os estudos geomorfológicos têm, como base, a avaliação da forma e composição das vertentes, sendo instrumentos fundamentais para planos de gestão, que visem à utilização racional do ambiente. A partir do surgimento e difusão dos Sistemas de Informações Geográficas (SIG) e o aprimoramento das geotecnologias, a obtenção e processamento de dados contendo atributos do relevo passou a ser um procedimento de fácil acesso, permitindo classificar e descrever de forma quantitativa as formas da superfície da Terra. Trabalhos de mapeamento geomorfológicos em municípios têm sido desenvolvidos, buscando uma maior integração das informações científicas com a comunidade sobre influência direta da universidade. O presente trabalho segue a proposta de integração com as comunidades regionais, através da análise geomorfológica do município de São Martinho da Serra/RS. Para a elaboração da compartimentação geomorfológica, foram levantados e analisados dados sobre a hidrografia, altitudes, declividade, elementos de relevo (geomorphons), litologias e tipos de solos. Os parâmetros foram interpretados com base em uma abordagem sistêmica e a validação deu-se através de trabalhos de campo. O município de São Martinho da Serra, foi segmentado em seis compartimentos geomorfológicos: Unidade Taquarembó; Unidade Lajeadinho; Unidade Guassupizinho; Unidade Durasnal; Unidade Serra de São Martinho e Unidade Ponte do Ibicuí. Os trabalhos que se preocupam com a descrição geomorfológica são importantes ferramentas, que, aplicadas de maneira correta, possibilitam um ordenamento e um planejamento eficaz do espaço geográfico.
Poluição sonora no Bairro Pernambués (Salvador-BA): contribuição à gestão urbana
Authors: Araújo Edmilson Natividade de , Franco Gustavo Barreto
Published: March 2023

Esta pesquisa tem como objetivo analisar como os moradores do Bairro de Pernambués, Salvador, Bahia, percebem a poluição sonora, visando a subsidiar a gestão urbana. Visando a alcançar o objetivo, foi necessário fazer um levantamento das principais causas da poluição sonora do Bairro de Pernambués, por meio de relatórios emitidos pela SEMOP (2020) e SEDUR (2021), contendo o quantitativo de denúncias por ruas e fontes motivadoras dessas denúncias. Também se recorreu à pesquisa de campo, aplicando 258 questionários em quatro ruas que se destacaram por concentrar o maior número de denúncias. Com base nas respostas desses moradores aos questionários, foi possível identificar as principais causas da poluição sonora: carro de som (43%) em primeiro lugar e, em segundo lugar, o som das residências (25%), confirmando as informações dos relatórios emitidos pelos órgãos competentes. Quanto aos efeitos provocados pela poluição, 53% dos entrevistados responderam que sofrem estresse, irritação e falta de concentração; 96% disseram estar incomodados com a poluição sonora e que têm por hábito fechar portas e janelas na tentativa de diminuir a sensação de incômodo; e 79% responderam estar insatisfeitos com a atuação do governo no combate à poluição sonora. Os dados de campo confirmam que os moradores do Bairro de Pernambués não só percebem, mas são muito afetados pela poluição sonora. O material produzido constituiu um diagnóstico sobre a poluição sonora no Bairro Pernambués e que políticas públicas devem ser implementas para amenizar ou até mesmo resolver o problema em questão, contribuindo, assim, para a gestão da poluição sonora. Para futuras pesquisas, sugere-se a medição dos níveis de ruído com a intenção do confrontar os resultados sonoros com os resultados dos questionários.
As contribuições do Programa Minha Casa, Minha Vida para a (re)produção do espaço urbano nas pequenas cidades do semiárido brasileiro
Authors: Silva Manoel Mariano Neto da , Alves Larissa da Silva Ferreira , Sousa Junior Almir Mariano de
Published: March 2023

Este trabalho objetivou analisar as contribuições do Programa Minha Casa, Minha Vida (PMCMV) para a (re)produção do espaço urbano nas pequenas cidades do semiárido brasileiro. Para tanto, adotou-se como recorte espacial os conjuntos habitacionais Santo Expedito e Bartolomeu, na cidade de Venha-Ver, situada no estado do Rio Grande do Norte. Foram considerados os aspectos fundiários, as condições das unidades habitacionais e a satisfação dos beneficiários, mediante aplicação de questionários, análises documentais e de dados secundários. Os conjuntos habitacionais estudados caracterizam-se pela irregularidade fundiária, decorrente da inatividade do poder público municipal quanto às ações cartorárias; ocorrências de abandonos e invasões de imóveis, fatores que contribuem para a insegurança jurídica e para segregação socioespacial. Quanto às condições das unidades habitacionais, conclui-se que, muito comumente, não condizem com a realidade das famílias beneficiadas, o que leva à realização de reformas para adaptar a estrutura original. No que se associa ao conforto ambiental, as maiores fragilidades foram a temperatura elevada e a presença de umidade, sendo esta última recorrente no período chuvoso. Mesmo diante destas condições, a população em sua maioria, demonstra satisfação quanto às residências e aos conjuntos habitacionais. Os moradores insatisfeitos associam tal condição às problemáticas estruturais, ocorrência de patologias nos imóveis e às relações estabelecidas com os vizinhos.
Geodiversidade e locais de interesse geológico e geomorfológico do munícipio de São Miguel do Tapuio, Piauí, Brasil
Authors: Ferreira Francisca Vanessa Franco , Silva Helena Vanessa Maria da , Aquino Claudia Maria Sabóia de , Aquino Renê Pedro de
Published: March 2023

No Estado do Piauí, estudos que contemplem a geodiversidade e temáticas afins ainda não respondem satisfatoriamente a necessidade de conhecimento, conservação e proteção da natureza abiótica do estado. Nesse sentido, o artigo em questão realizou um levantamento da geodiversidade e do patrimônio geológico/geomorfológico do município de São Miguel do Tapuio Piauí, Centro-Norte do estado. A metodologia adotada foi organizada da seguinte maneira: (i) levantamento e análise do referencial teórico; (ii) trabalho de gabinete e (iii) trabalho de campo com aplicação das fichas de inventariação com base na metodologia de Oliveira (2015). Foram identificados, avaliados qualitativamente e caracterizados 6 locais de interesse geológico/geomorfológico. Além do potencial geoturístico, percebeu-se também a importância didática desses locais, sendo, portanto, relevantes para práticas de campo, e desse modo, podendo-se discutir e ensinar uma variedade de temáticas e fenômenos relacionados ao contexto geológico, geomorfológico, hidrológico, arqueológico e outros. Diante dos locais de interesse geológico-geomorfológico do município de São Miguel do Tapuio e considerando a pouca dinâmica econômica do município baseado na agricultura e pecuária, recomenda-se a implantação de estratégias em bases sustentáveis como uso dessas áreas para o geoturismo como forma de promover a geração de renda para os munícipes e assim quiçá melhorar a qualidade de vida dos mesmos. Há necessidade de participação mais ativa da gestão municipal por meio de ações que possam sensibilizar a população e a própria gestão de se conscientizar sobre a geodiversidade do município e o potencial turístico existente.
Recursos didáticos não convencionais no ensino de Geografia: práticas para o ensino de Geologia e Geomorfologia
Authors: Araujo Alda Cristina de Ananias , Aquino Cláudia Maria Sabóia de
Published: March 2023

Segundo Araujo (2021), os conceitos e concepções acerca da dinâmica geológico-geomorfológica muitas vezes são apresentados nos livros didáticos de forma superficial, sem aprofundamento e ainda sem uma análise crítica. A presente pesquisa tem como objetivo propor metodologias não convencionais para suprir as lacunas referentes aos conteúdos de Geomorfologia e Geologia constatadas no livro didático “Geografia Contextos e Redes” de Silva, Olic e Lozano (2016) correspondente a 1ª série do ensino médio. A metodologia empregada é de cunho qualitativo/descritivo, estudo de caso e análise de conteúdo. O estudo foi motivado pela complexidade, equívocos e o elevado grau de abstração que os conteúdos físicos da Geografia costumam apresentar nas obras didáticas. Justifica a escolha do tema pela necessidade de avaliar os conteúdos físicos naturais presentes nos livros didáticos, e propor metodologias não convencionais para suprir as lacunas presente nesses materiais, sendo um trabalho importante para professores, servindo como sugestão para tratar os assuntos relativos à Geografia física, notadamente a Geomorfologia e a Geologia de forma significativa, integrada e aplicada de modo a alcançar o ensino aprendizagem e o raciocínio geográfico dos educandos. Confirma-se que a inserção de softwares digitais (jogos e o SIG Google Earth), maquetes, cinema e histórias em quadrinhos (HQs), são belos exemplos de como o professor pode estar trabalhando alguns conceitos que apresenta lacunas ou inconsistências no livro didático “Geografia Contextos e Redes”.
Dispersão da cidade e os espaços residenciais fechados: o processo de aglomeração urbana entre Presidente Prudente/SP e Álvares Machado/SP
Authors: Silva Laércio Yudi Watanabe
Published: March 2023

Nas cidades médias brasileiras haveria, pelo menos, dois tipos de espraiamento do tecido urbano: um deles é atinente a escala da própria cidade, enquanto o segundo compreende aglomerações urbanas polarizadas por cidades médias. Este segundo, chamando de dispersão da Cidade, pode ser observado na aglomeração urbana formada entre Presidente Prudente e Álvares Machado. A expansão territorial de cada núcleo urbano acirrou as relações e interações entre os municípios, tanto do ponto de vista físico-territorial quanto em relação aos deslocamentos pendulares. O âmbito de vida ou o espaço de vivência cotidiana dos citadinos passa, cada vez mais, a se efetivar nessa escala mais alargada. Na aglomeração investigada, os espaços residenciais fechados de alto padrão vêm se constituindo, mais recentemente, como um importante vetor de intensificação dos fluxos e das interações intermunicipais, sobretudo ao longo de importantes vias que alcançam ambos os municípios, como as rodovias Raposo Tavares e Arthur Boigues Filho. Ao final, novas questões são apresentadas como o objetivo de contribuir para futuras investigações concernentes a possível relação existente entre os espaços residenciais fechados e o processo de aglomeração urbana.
Mudanças morfológicas na seção transversal de um rio com alta açudagem: estudo de caso no rio Jaguaribe no município de Quixeré - Ceará
Authors: Andrade José Hamilton Ribeiro , Fernandez Oscar Vicente Quinonez
Published: March 2023

Os rios são um dos agentes geomorfológicos que mais deixam marcas nas paisagens naturais, apresentando uma dinâmica de produção, transporte e deposição de sedimentos. A seção transversal, o traçado e a declividade do canal são características do canal fluvial que se modificam em intervalo de tempo muito curto, podendo essas mudanças serem naturais ou antrópicas. O presente estudo foi realizado no rio Jaguaribe, um dos principais cursos fluviais intermitentes do Ceará, cuja vazão é perenizada pelo açude do Castanhão. O objetivo do trabalho é comparar a magnitude das vazões com as mudanças morfológicas na seção transversal da Estação Fluviométrica de Quixeré (período 2006-2019). Para tanto foram determinados o tempo de retorno e a probabilidade de ocorrência das vazões máximas anuais pelas fórmulas de Weibull. O estudo da variação morfológicas na seção transversal se deu a partir da análise de perfis topográficos empregando os parâmetros estatísticos de Olson-Rutz e Marlow (1992). Os resultados mostraram que a área da seção transversal, num período caracterizado por vazões altas (2008-2009) e vazões baixas (2016-2019), variou em torno de um valor médio (1.484 m2) caracterizando uma condição de equilíbrio. Os parâmetros estatísticos evidenciaram que a área da seção transversal, modificada pela soma da erosão e da deposição durante as vazões altas ou baixas, variou em porcentagens muito similares. Por outro lado, a magnitude do processo erosivo ou deposicional predominante foi maior nos períodos com vazões altas do que épocas com vazões baixas.
Solo na escola: atividade prática com um simulador de erosão
Authors: Bispo Carlos de Oliveira , Sousa Sinara Gomes de , Listo Danielle Gomes da Silva
Published: March 2023

A abordagem da temática solo evidencia a sua importância para a vida e a necessidade de sua conservação. O presente artigo é resultado das reflexões desenvolvidas em sala de aula, na disciplina de Geografia, com a participação dos estudantes do Ensino Fundamental II no contexto do Projeto Solo na Escola do Departamento de Ciências Geográficas da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco – UFPE.  O estudo teve como público-alvo estudantes do 6º ano de uma escola pública. A proposta pautou-se numa ação pedagógica com o objetivo de discutir a importância da conservação do meio ambiente dentro de uma cultura de sustentabilidade, trabalhando-se com a temática da erosão do solo. Por meio das reflexões realizadas na disciplina de Geografia, buscou-se refletir sobre as concepções e aprendizados dos estudantes sobre sustentabilidade e meio ambiente. A metodologia efetivou-se através da preparação de um material didático denominado simulador de erosão, que foi utilizado para a realização de uma atividade prática em sala de aula, com a temática da Erosão do solo. Essa intervenção pedagógica contribuiu para a mudança do olhar dos estudantes em relação aos espaços estudados e, assim, eles puderam enxergar novas perspectivas e possibilidades para a conservação do solo, além de ressignificar o processo de ensino-aprendizagem.
Retrospective analysis of Vibrio spp. isolated from marketed crustaceans using multilocus sequence analysis
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Shamsur , Currò Sarah , Carraro Lisa , Cardazzo Barbara , Balzan Stefania , Novelli Enrico , Fontana Federico , Caburlotto Greta , Manfrin Amedeo , Fasolato Luca
Published: March 2023

The genus Vibrio includes bacteria with different morphological and metabolic characteristics responsible for different human and animal diseases. An accurate identification is essential to assess the risks in regard to aquatic organisms and consequently to public health. The Multilocus Sequence Analysis (MLSA) scheme developed on the basis of 4 housekeeping genes (gyrB, pyrH, recA and atpA) was applied to identify 92 Vibrio strains isolated from crustaceans in 2011. Concatenated sequences were used for the phylogenetic and population analyses and the results were compared with those from biochemical identification tests. From the phylogenetic analysis, 10 clusters and 4 singletons emerged, whereas the population analysis highlighted 12 subpopulations that were well supported by phylogeny with few exceptions. The retrospective analysis allowed correct re-attribution of isolated species, indicating how, for some pathogens, there may be an overestimation of phenotypic identification (e.g. V. parahaemolyticus). Use of the PubMLST Vibrio database highlighted a possible genetic link between Sequence Type (ST) 529 and ST195 (V. alginolyticus) isolated from a human case in Norway during 2018. In addition to the identification of major risk groups of V. cholerae, V. vulnificus and V. parahaemolyticus, MLSA could be a valid support for species considered a minor risk, such as V. alginolyticus, V. mimicus and V. fluvialis. Due to the increased incidence of vibriosis in Europe, the application of different tools will also have to be considered to investigate the possible epidemiological links of the various species in the perspective of Open Science to protect the consumer.
A case study on DNA barcoding for pet food mislabeling in South Korea
Authors: Lee Duri , Do Thinh Dinh , Baek Jong-Won , Mun Min-Ho , An Hyung-Eun , Kim Chang-Bae
Published: March 2023

Due to the close relationship between pets and humans, pet owners are highly invested in proper diets for their pets. Even though pet food mislabeling is concerning, there are few studies on this topic. This study investigated pet food mislabeling in South Korea’s market based on DNA barcoding. In total, 10 pet food products were purchased, and 200 sequences of the partial Cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene were generated from clones of the samples. The obtained sequences were compared to available public databases to identify species present in the ingredients. The data analyses showed that the labeled species were consistent with species detected by COI sequences in 6 of the products. However, the expected species were not detected in 4 products, revealing possible mislabeling in these samples. Our findings indicated that DNA barcoding might represent a promising tool to detect pet food mislabeling.
Simple prognostic markers in patients with hematological malignancies and coronavirus disease 2019 infection
Authors: Rakha Nahed M. , Mohammed Dalia Abdel E. , Hassan Noha B. , Abdalla Nour El Hoda H.
Published: March 2023

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic rapidly spread from China to other countries. The clinical features of patients with COVID-19 have revealed a number of potential biochemical markers associated with in-hospital mortality. Numerous studies have proposed the use of hematological markers that seem to associate with increased severity and mortality in patients with COVID-19.

Aim

To evaluate the prognostic value of some hematological parameters and inflammatory biomarker effect on overall survival (OS) and mortality on patients with hematological malignancies infected with COVID-19.

Patients and methods

A cross-sectional study of 50 adult Egyptian patients with different hematological malignancies were recruited from Clinical Hematology Department, Ain Shams University Hospital, over the period from December 2020 to October 2021.

Results

The mean of neutrophil-to-monocyte ratio (NMR) was 0–110 and median interquartile range 7.40 (3.0–16.67)×103/µl and there is significant correlation between NMR and OS with P value of 0.031, there is significant correlation between OS of those patients and D-dimer, ferritin, hematocrit, and red-blood cell count.

Conclusion

There are simple, easy, and rapid tests such as the NMR, inflammatory biomarkers (ferritin and D-dimer), and some hematological parameters (hematocrit and red blood cell) that have prognostic value on OS and mortality on patients with hematological malignancies infected with COVID-19.
DNMT3A-448A>G nucleotide polymorphism and susceptibility to acute myeloid leukemia in a cohort of Egyptian patients
Authors: Elnoshokaty Essam H. , Ebid Gamal T. , Fahmy Mohamed A. , Shikhon Tarek M. , Gawdat Rania M.
Published: March 2023

Background

DNA-methyltransferase 3 A (DNMT3A) plays an important role in DNA methylation. Its mutation is the commonest mutated epigenetic regulator in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, the relation between DNMT3 polymorphism and AML risk in Egyptian patients is still unknown.

Objectives

To detect the frequency of DNMT3A-448A>G (rs 1550117) single nucleotide polymorphism in a cohort of adult Egyptian patients with AML and normal controls matched by age, sex, and ethnicity and to assess its effect on the susceptibility of AML.

Patients and methods

PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism was the genotyping method used to assess DNMT3A polymorphism in the present case–control study.

Results

The frequency of the wild (GG), mutant heterozygous (AG), and mutant homozygous (AA) genotypes among patients and controls were 47.90 versus 47.70%, 46.50 versus49.20%, and 5.60 versus 3.10%, respectively (P=0.763, 0.505, and 0.462, respectively), whereas the frequency of A allele was 28.87 versus 27.69%P=0.829. The patients with DNMT3A mutant types (AG, AA, and carrier of the variant Allele of the DNMT3A) were not associated with the risk of AML (odds ratio: 0.548, 0.516, and 0.934; 95% confidence interval: 0.094–3.206, 0.088–3.014, and 0.556-1.60, respectively).

Conclusion

DNMT3A-448A>G (rs 1550117) polymorphism conferred no risk to AML in our studied Egyptian patients.
Refractory splenectomized immune thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Moeen Sawsan M. , Thabet Ahmad F. , Morad Mohamed A.
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The treatment options for patients with refractory splenectomized chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) are often unsatisfactory despite different lines of treatment, especially after thrombopoietin receptor agonist (TPO-RA) failure.

Objective

This study was done to assess the efficacy of vincristine in the treatment of patients with splenectomized chronic ITP who failed TPO-RA therapy as well as their 8-month follow-up following vincristine discontinuation.

Patients and methods

A total of 12 patients with splenectomized chronic ITP who failed to respond to TPO-RA were treated with vincristine 1–2 mg weekly for 6 weeks.

Results

The platelet count was evaluated during the treatment, and every 2 months for 8-month follow-up. The mean platelet count was significantly increased at the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth weeks during the treatment and persistently elevated during the second, fourth, and sixth months of follow-up when compared with the baseline platelet count, while decreasing at the 8-month follow-up, with no significant difference at their baseline.

Conclusion

Vincristine could be an effective treatment in patients with splenectomized ITP who failed to respond to TPO-RAs and in patients requiring a short-term increase in the platelet count.
Ethanolic extract of sweet basil callus cultures as a source of antioxidant and sun-protective agents
Authors: Ibrahim Mona M. , Danial Nancy , El-Bahr Mohamed K.
Published: March 2023

Background

Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is a medicinal plant largely used in medicine, cosmetics, and cooking.

Objective

The current work aimed to improve the production of both phenolic and flavonoid compounds in the callus cultures of sweet basil (O. basilicum L.), which can be used in cosmetics as antioxidant and sun-protection agents.

Materials and methods

Different combinations of growth regulators have been used to induce calli. Phenylalanine and salicylic acid have been used to enhance phenolics and flavonoids production. Quantitative analyses including total phenolics (TPC), total flavonoids, 2,2’-diphenyl 1-Picryl-hydrazyl radical scavenging activity, half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50), correlation coefficient (R2) between antioxidant activity and both TPC and TFC, and sun-protective factor have been performed for both treatments and control.

Results and conclusions

Results reported that 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA)+6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) was the best combination to induce calli tissue with good texture. The addition of 1.0 g/l phenylalanine for 2 weeks and 0.5 mm salicylic acid for 4 weeks were the best treatments to increase the production of phenolic and flavonoid components, and it showed the maximum % radical scavenging capacity. Higher correlation coefficient was found between % radical scavenging capacity and TPC compounds (0.83). The treatment of 1.0 g/l phenylalanine for 2 weeks indicated the lowest and best IC50, and it showed the maximum sun-protective factor value (36.50±0.003).
Role of Crush Cytology in Detecting Gastrointestinal Malignancies
Authors: Singh Ayaskanta , Patnayak Rashmi , Narayan Jimmy , Sahu Manoj Kumar , Behera Manas Kumar , Jena Amitabh
Published: March 2023

Background:

Adenocarcinomas are the most common malignancy of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Crush cytology is an effective method which can be used to detect neoplastic conditions of GI tract, especially in combination with biopsies.

Materials and Methods:

The objectives of the study were to study the efficacy of crush cytology as a convenient and near accurate method to evaluate endoscopic biopsy of GI neoplasms.

Study Design:

Retrospective and Prospective. The original cytopathology diagnoses were correlated with histology report on cases sent over 2-year period. In consecutive 89 patients attending the department of gastroenterology with clinical suspicion of malignancy, an endoscopy was performed. The material obtained was subjected to cytology as well as histopathology. The stained cytology slides along with corresponding histopathology slides were studied.

Results:

Out of 89 cases, both crush smear and histopathology sections were positive for malignant cells (65 cases), both negative for malignant cells (seven cases), crush smear positive and histopathology negative (three cases), and crush smear-negative and histopathology positive (14 cases). Out of the 14 cases which were negative in crush smears for malignancy, on histopathological examination, eight were signet-ring cell carcinoma, three were poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma, two turned out to be neuroendocrine carcinoma, and one non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).

Conclusion:

Crush cytology smears can be used to diagnose malignant GI cases fairly accurately. Cases of signet-ring cell carcinoma, neuroendocrine tumor, poorly differentiated malignancy, and NHL may be missed by crush cytology technique alone. A special stain for mucin can be used to identify the signet-ring cells in signet-ring cell carcinoma cases.
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation
Authors: Banik Suranjana , Ramadass Balamurugan
Published: March 2023

Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) involves a noninvasive technique of transferring fecal microbiota in patients from healthy donors. Donors are generally chosen from spouses or relatives, though the anonymous donation is also common. FMT is particularly useful in diseases like recurrent clostridium difficile infection, ulcerative colitis, hepatic encephalopathy, metabolic syndrome, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, graft versus host disease, multiple sclerosis, multi drug resistance etc. FMT is gradually being adapted in India in the major cities but there are various regulatory challenges. Despite the promising nature of FMT in different pathologies, the different barriers ranging from the selection of a healthy donor, high quality control, uniform protocol maintenance, to ensuring effective mode of administration have to be addressed for FMT to become a widely accepted modality of therapy.
The protocol for the consensuses of Chinese experts on glioma multidisciplinary team management
Authors: Mao Ying , Jiang Tao , Zhao Guoguang
Published: March 2023

Glioma is a highly heterogeneous disease with yet unknown mechanisms. It is imperative to provide individualized and precise treatment based on the multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment model and the basic principles of evidence-based medicine for these patients. In 2018, the Glioma Society Affiliated to Chinese Medical Doctor Association led the development of the "Chinese Expert Consensus on Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) Management of Glioma," which significantly promoted the application of the MDT approach in China. To standardize the diagnosis and treatment of MDT for glioma in different regions and grades of hospitals, we plan to update the "Chinese Expert Consensus on MDT Management of Glioma" based on the currently available evidence-based medical evidence. This new version will update the standards of surgical procedures, clinical management, and quality control for the implementation of MDT for glioma to provide guidelines and recommendations for clinicians. The Consensus Committee will follow the policies of the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines development, form a multidisciplinary expert team, and utilize Evidence-Based Management in line with the Oxford University Center for Evidence-Based Medicine Levels of Evidence and Grades of Recommendation to develop the evidence-based expert consensus on MDT for glioma. The proposal emphasizes the significance, purpose, members of the Consensus Committee, identification of clinical problems, evidence acquisition, evaluation and integration, and recommendation generation.
Elliptical deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty in severe Acanthamoeba keratitis
Authors: Wang Haiou , Jhanji Vishal , Ye Cong , Ren Yueping , Zheng Qinxiang , Li Jinyang , Zhao Zelin , Chen Wei
Published: March 2023

Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is an intractable infection of the cornea. Penetrating keratoplasty is widely used for the management of severe AK but suffers from complications like graft rejection, endophthalmitis, and glaucoma. Herein, we aimed to describe the surgical technique and the results of elliptical deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (eDALK) for the management of severe AK. In this retrospective case series, records of consecutive patients with AK poorly responsive to medical treatment who underwent eDALK from January 2012 to May 2020 were reviewed. The largest diameter of infiltration was ≥8 mm and did not involve the endothelium. The recipient bed was made by an elliptical trephine, and big bubble or wet-peeling technique was performed. Postoperative best spectacle-corrected visual acuity, endothelial cell density, corneal topographic data, and complications were evaluated. Thirteen eyes of thirteen patients (eight men and five women, 45.54 ± 11.78 years old) were included in this study. The mean follow-up interval was 21.31 ± 19.59 months (range, 12–82 months). At the last follow-up, the mean best spectacle-corrected visual acuity was 0.35 ± 0.27 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution. The mean refractive and topographic astigmatism were − 3.21 ± 1.77 and 3.08 ± 1.14 D, respectively. Intraoperative perforation was encountered in one case and double anterior chambers occurred in two cases. One graft developed stromal rejection and one eye developed amoebic recurrence. eDALK can serve as the first-line surgical management of severe AK poorly responsive to medical treatment.
Spectrum of congenital and inherited ocular disorders seen in a genetic clinic: Experience of a developing ocular genetic service
Authors: Sahu Animesh , Kaur Savleen , Sukhija Jaspreet , Srivastava Priyanka , Kaur Anupriya
Published: March 2023

Purpose:

Hereditary causes are an important etiological category of childhood blindness. This study reports the real-world experience of a developing ocular genetic service.

Methods:

The study was carried out from Jan 2020 to Dec 2021 jointly by the Pediatric Genetic Clinic and the Department of Ophthalmology of a tertiary care hospital in North-West India. Children presenting to the genetic clinic with congenital or late-onset ocular disorder(s) and any individual (irrespective of age) suffering from an ophthalmic disorder and referred by an ophthalmologist for genetic counseling for himself/herself and/or his/her family member(s) were included. Genetic testing (exome sequencing/panel-based sequencing/chromosomal microarray) was outsourced to third-party laboratories with the cost of the test being borne by the patient.

Results:

Exactly 8.6% of the registered patients in the genetic clinic had ocular disorders. Maximum number of patients belonged to the category of anterior segment dysgenesis, followed by microphthalmia anophthalmia coloboma spectrum, lens disorders, and inherited retinal disorders in decreasing numbers. The ratio of syndromic ocular to isolated ocular disorders seen was 1.8:1. Genetic testing was accepted by 55.5% of families. The genetic testing was clinically useful for ~35% of the tested cohort, with the opportunity for prenatal diagnosis being the most useful application of genetic testing.

Conclusion:

Syndromic ocular disorders are seen at a higher frequency compared to isolated ocular disorders in a genetic clinic. Opportunity for prenatal diagnosis is the most useful application of genetic testing in ocular disorders.
Establishment of patient-derived xenografts of retinoblastoma and choroidal melanoma on the avian chorioallantoic membrane
Authors: Kant Nimita , Jayaraj Perumal , Sen Seema , Rupani Harshita , Kumar Pranavi , Dahiya Shefali , Chugh Palak , Gupta Muskaan , Sengar Manisha
Published: March 2023

Purpose:

To develop a viable in vivo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model to study the growth and invasion of patient-derived retinoblastoma (RB) and choroidal melanoma (CM) xenografts (PDXs). The study utilizes primary tumor samples instead of cancer cell lines, which provides a more authentic representation of tumors due to conserved morphology and heterogeneity.

Methods:

Fertilized chicken eggs were procured, windowed, and their CAM layers were dropped. On embryonic development day (EDD) 10, freshly cut patient-derived CM and RB tumors were implanted on the CAM layer and the setup was incubated for 7 days. The tumor-embedded CAM layer was harvested on EDD 17, and the extracted tumor samples were subjected to hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemical analysis to evaluate the extent of tumor invasion.

Results:

Significant changes in the vascularity around the RB and CM PDXs were observed, indicating an angiogenic environment. The cross-sectional histological view of the tumor implant site revealed the invasion of both the tumors into the CAM mesoderm. Invasion of CM into CAM mesoderm was visualized in the form of pigmented nodules, and that of RB was indicated by synaptophysin and Ki-67 positivity in Immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Conclusion:

The CAM xenograft model was successfully able to support the growth of CM and RB PDXs and their invasion in CAM, thus presenting as a feasible alternative to mammalian models for studying tumorigenicity and invasiveness of ocular tumors. Moreover, this model can further be utilized to develop personalized medicine by inoculating patient-specific tumors for preclinical drug screening.
Virtual keratoconus monitoring clinic in a tertiary university hospital in the United Kingdom
Authors: Molero-Senosiain Mercedes , Houben Isabeau , Vali Yahya , Mistry Prashant , Savant Shalom , Savant Vijay
Published: March 2023

Purpose:

To describe a new pathway for virtual keratoconus (KC) monitoring in the corneal department of a tertiary referral center in the UK during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Methods:

A virtual outpatient clinic to monitor KC patients (KC PHOTO clinic) was created. All patients from the KC database in our department were included. At each hospital visit, patients’ visual acuity and tomography (Pentacam; Oculus, Wetzlar, Germany) were collected by a health-care assistant and an ophthalmic technician, respectively. The results were virtually reviewed by a corneal optometrist to identify stability or progression of KC and discussed with a consultant if needed. Those with progression were contacted by telephone and listed for corneal crosslinking (CXL).

Results:

From July 2020 until May 2021, 802 patients were invited to attend the virtual KC outpatient clinic. Of them, 536 patients (66.8%) attended and 266 (33.2%) did not attend. After corneal tomography analysis, 351 (65.5%) were stable, 121 (22.6%) showed no definite evidence of progression, and 64 (11.9%) showed progression. Forty-one (64%) patients with progressive KC were listed for CXL and the remaining 23 patients deferred treatment after the pandemic. By converting a face-to-face clinic to a virtual clinic, we were able to increase our capacity by nearly 500 appointments per year.

Conclusion:

In pandemic times, hospitals have developed novel methods of delivering safe patient care. KC PHOTO is a safe, effective, and innovative method of monitoring KC patients and diagnosing progression. In addition, virtual clinics can increase the clinic capacity tremendously and reduce the need of face-to-face appointments, which is beneficial in pandemic conditions.
Visual impairment and blindness due to retinitis pigmentosa in India: 15-year follow-up of the Andhra Pradesh Eye Disease Study cohort
Authors: Parameswarappa Deepika C , Jalali Subhadra , Marmamula Srinivas , Natarajan Ramya , Mettla Asha L , Giridhar Pyda , Banerjee Seema , Shekhar Konegari , Chakrabarti Subhabrata , Khanna Rohit C
Published: March 2023

Purpose:

To assess the incidence, visual impairment, and blindness due to retinitis pigmentosa (RP) in a rural southern Indian cohort.

Methods:

This is a population-based longitudinal cohort study of participants with RP from the Andhra Pradesh Eye Disease Study (APEDS) cohorts I and III, respectively. The study included participants with RP of APEDS I who were followed until APEDS III. Their demographic data along with ocular features, fundus photographs, and visual fields (Humphrey) were collected. Descriptive statistics using mean ± standard deviation with interquartile range (IQR) were calculated. The main outcome measures were RP incidence, visual impairment, and blindness as per the World Health Organization (WHO) definitions.

Results:

At baseline (APEDS I), 7771 participants residing in three rural areas were examined. There were nine participants with RP with a mean age at baseline of 47.33 ± 10.89 years (IQR: 39–55). There was a male preponderance (6:3), and the mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 18 eyes from nine participants with RP was 1.2 ± 0.72 logarithm of minimum angle of resolution (logMAR; IQR: 0.7–1.6). Over a mean follow-up duration of 15 years, 5395/7771 (69.4%) were re-examined, which included seven RP participants from APEDS 1. Additionally, two new participants with RP were identified; so, the overall incidence was 370/ million in 15 years (24.7/million per year). The mean BCVA of 14 eyes of seven participants with RP who were re-examined in APEDS III was 2.17 ± 0.56 logMAR (IQR: 1.8–2.6), and five of these seven participants with RP developed incident blindness during the follow-up period.

Conclusion:

RP is a prevalent disease in southern India that warrants appropriate strategies to prevent this condition.
Papillomacular bundle sparing versus conventional internal limiting membrane peeling for idiopathic macular hole ≤400 µm
Authors: Kumar Aman , Moharana Bruttendu , Katoch Deeksha , Singh Ramandeep
Published: March 2023

Purpose:

To compare the outcomes of papillomacular bundle (PMB) sparing internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling (group LP) and conventional ILM peeling (group CP) for treatment of idiopathic macular hole (MH) of ≤400 μm.

Methods:

Fifteen eyes were included in each group. In group CP, conventional 360° peeling was done, while in group LP, ILM was spared over PMB. The changes in peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) thickness and ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GC-IPL) thickness were analyzed at 3 months.

Results:

MH was closed in all with comparable visual improvement. Postoperatively, retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) was significantly thinner in the temporal quadrant in group CP. GC-IPL was significantly thinner in the temporal quadrants in group LP, whereas it was comparable in group CP.

Conclusion:

PMB sparing ILM peeling is comparable to conventional ILM peeling in terms of closure rate and visual gain, with the advantage of less retinal damage at 3 months.
To compare central visual field progression using mean deviation and pointwise linear regression analysis
Authors: Patil Trupti S , Viswanathan N , George Ronnie
Published: March 2023

Purpose:

To compare central visual field progression using mean deviation and pointwise linear regression (PLR) analysis.

Methods:

We analyzed the 10-2 Humphrey visual field (HVF) tests for moderate and advanced primary glaucoma who had undergone at least five reliable 10-2 visual field tests with a minimum follow-up of at least two years and best-corrected visual acuity better than 6/12. Regression slope less than −1 dB/year at P < 0.01 at a point was defined as an individual threshold point progression.

Results:

Ninety-six eyes of 74 patients were included. The median follow-up duration was of 4 years (±1.97). Median 10-2 mean deviation (MD) at inclusion was −19.01 dB (interquartile range [IQR] −13.2, −24.14) and −21.90 (IQR − 13.4, −27.8) on 24-2 HVF. The median rate of MD change was −0.13 dB/year (IQR − 0.46, 0.08) for 10-2. The median rate for visual field index (VFI) change was 0.9% per year (IQR − 1.5, 0.4). Twenty-eight percent of eyes (27 eyes) showed progression. Twelve percent (12 eyes) showed progression of two or more points in the same hemifield on pointwise linear regression (PLR) analysis, and 16% of eyes (15 eyes) showed progression of one point. The median rate of MD change was significantly more in progressing eyes based on PLR analysis than eyes with no progression (−0.5 vs. −0.06 dB/year P < 0.001). One patient had likely and the second had possible progression on 24-2. In 24 eyes, event analysis did not show any change; the rest mean deviation was out of range.

Conclusion:

Central visual field PLR analysis is useful in detecting progression in advanced glaucomatous damage.
Granulomatous anterior uveitis following mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccination: A case report
Authors: Cam Furkan , Gok Gizem , Celiker Hande
Published: March 2023

A 23-year-old patient presented with complaints of redness, pain, photophobia, and blurred vision in the right eye 15 days after she received the third dose of BNT162b2 vaccination. Ocular examination revealed 2+ cellular reactions in the anterior chamber and mutton fat keratic precipitate with no vitritis or retinal alterations. Active uveitis findings regressed with corticosteroid and cycloplegic eye drops. We present a case of unilateral granulomatous anterior uveitis following the BNT162b2 vaccination, with no etiologic factor in uveitis work-up and no previous history of uveitis before vaccination. This report demonstrates a potential causal association of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine with granulomatous anterior uveitis.
A cross-sectional study analyzing the correlation between the mean retinal nerve fiber layer and ganglion cell layer thickness with axial length and refractive errors among children aged 5–15 years
Authors: Sanepalli Sravani , Raj Amit , Saha Bhawesh C , Singh Prabhakar
Published: March 2023

Purpose:

To analyze the correlation between the mean retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and ganglion cell layer (GCL) thickness with axial length and refractive errors among children aged 5–15 years.

Methods:

This cross-sectional, observational study was done on 130 eyes of 65 consecutive subjects with refractive errors. The patients were evaluated for RNFL thickness and macular GCL thickness using spectral domain- optical coherence tomography.

Results:

One hundred and thirty eyes of 65 subjects aged between 5 and 15 years were divided into three groups based on their spherical equivalent in diopters (D). The children with a spherical equivalent of ≤−0.50 D were considered myopic, ≥−0.5 to ≤+0.5 D were considered emmetropic, and ≥+0.50 D were considered hypermetropic. RNFL thickness and GCL thickness were correlated with age, gender, spherical equivalent, and axial length. The mean global RNFL thickness was 104.58 µm ± 7.567.

Conclusion:

There exists a negative correlation between RNFL thickness and macular GCL thickness with increasing severity of myopia and increase in axial length, and the possible reason could be stretching of the sclera, which further leads to stretching of the retina, resulting in thinner RNFL and macular GCL thickness.