bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the Irradiation Exposure of PET Film with Swift Heavy Ions Using the Interference-Free Transmission UV-Vis Transmission Spectra
Authors: Tuleushev Adil Z. , Harrison Fiona E. , Kozlovskiy Artem L. , Zdorovets Maxim V.
Published: January 2021

This paper presents the results of a study of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) films irradiated with Ar and Kr ions at both normal orientation and an angle of 40° to the normal. Normal irradiation was performed using Ar8+ and Kr15+ ions with an energy of 1.75 MeV/au and fluences in the range (2–500) × 1010 cm−2 for Ar8+ ions and (1.6 − 6.5) × 1010 cm−2 for Kr15+ ions. Kr ions with an energy of 1.2 MeV/au and charges of 13+, 14+, and 15+ were used for angled irradiation. For each Kr ion charge value, three fluence values were used: 5 × 1010, 1 × 1011, and 2.5 × 1011 cm−2. It is well known that irradiation of PET films by swift heavy ions results in a red shift of the UV-vis transmission spectra absorption edge. The experimental transmission spectra exhibit well-defined interference fringes, which obscure the underlying transmission response. Using an existing technique to obtain interference-free transmission curves Tα(λ) for both pristine and irradiated PET film samples, we found that S, the total radiation-induced absorption of light by the PET film, is proportional to the logarithm of the fluence F. In addition to this dependence on the irradiating fluence, we also found that the charge of the irradiating ion has a significant influence on the position of the absorption edge in the UV-vis spectra. This provides experimentally independent evidence to confirm our previous results showing that ion charge has an effect on the post-irradiation state of PET films. We present a physical interpretation of the observed absorption edge red shift in irradiated PET films as being due to the growth of extended conjugated systems via the formation of intermolecular helical structures. Our investigations into the stability of irradiation-induced effects in PET films show that comparison of UV-vis transmission spectra before and after annealing can provide information about the structure of deep traps in PET.
Advanced Bioethanol Production: From Novel Raw Materials to Integrated Biorefineries
Authors: Duque Aleta , Álvarez Cristina , Doménech Pablo , Manzanares Paloma , Moreno Antonio D.
Published: January 2021

The production of so-called advanced bioethanol offers several advantages compared to traditional bioethanol production processes in terms of sustainability criteria. This includes, for instance, the use of nonfood crops or residual biomass as raw material and a higher potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The present review focuses on the recent progress related to the production of advanced bioethanol, (i) highlighting current results from using novel biomass sources such as the organic fraction of municipal solid waste and certain industrial residues (e.g., residues from the paper, food, and beverage industries); (ii) describing new developments in pretreatment technologies for the fractionation and conversion of lignocellulosic biomass, such as the bioextrusion process or the use of novel ionic liquids; (iii) listing the use of new enzyme catalysts and microbial strains during saccharification and fermentation processes. Furthermore, the most promising biorefinery approaches that will contribute to the cost-competitiveness of advanced bioethanol production processes are also discussed, focusing on innovative technologies and applications that can contribute to achieve a more sustainable and effective utilization of all biomass fractions. Special attention is given to integrated strategies such as lignocellulose-based biorefineries for the simultaneous production of bioethanol and other high added value bioproducts.
Identification and Portrait of Urban Functional Zones Based on Multisource Heterogeneous Data and Ensemble Learning
Authors: Xu Nan , Luo Jiancheng , Wu Tianjun , Dong Wen , Liu Wei , Zhou Nan
Published: January 2021

Urban functional zones are important space carriers for urban economic and social function. The accurate and rapid identification of urban functional zones is of great significance to urban planning and resource allocation. However, the factors considered in the existing functional zone identification methods are not comprehensive enough, and the recognition of functional zones stops at their categories. This paper proposes a framework that combines multisource heterogeneous data to identify the categories of functional zones and draw the portraits of functional zones. The framework comprehensively describes the features of functional zones from four aspects: building-level metrics, landscape metrics, semantic metrics, and human activity metrics, and uses a combination of ensemble learning and active learning to balance the identification accuracy of functional zones and the labeling cost during large-scale generalization. Furthermore, sentiment analysis, word cloud analysis, and land cover proportion maps are added to the portraits of typical functional zones to make the image of functional zones vivid. The experiment carried out within the Fifth Ring Road, Haidian District, Beijing, shows that the overall accuracy of the method reached 82.37% and the portraits of the four typical functional zones are clear. The method in this paper has good repeatability and generalization, which is helpful to carry out quantitative and objective research on urban functional zones.
On the Design of an Energy Efficient Digital IIR A-Weighting Filter Using Approximate Multiplication
Authors: Pilipović Ratko , Risojević Vladimir , Bulić Patricio
Published: January 2021

This paper presents a new A-weighting filter’s design and explores the potential of using approximate multiplication for low-power digital A-weighting filter implementation. It presents a thorough analysis of the effects of approximate multiplication, coefficient quantization, the order of first-order sections in the filter’s cascade, and zero-pole pairings on the frequency response of the digital A-weighting filter. The proposed A-weighting filter was implemented as a sixth-order IIR filter using approximate odd radix-4 multipliers. The proposed filter was synthesized (Verilog to GDS) using the Nangate45 cell library, and MATLAB simulations were performed to verify the designed filter’s magnitude response and performance. Synthesis results indicate that the proposed design achieves nearly 70% reduction in energy (power-delay product) with a negligible deviation of the frequency response from the floating-point implementation. Experiments on acoustic noise suggest that the proposed digital A-weighting filter can be deployed in environmental noise measurement applications without any notable performance degradation.
Design Strategies for Electrochemical Aptasensors for Cancer Diagnostic Devices
Authors: Malecka Kamila , Mikuła Edyta , Ferapontova Elena E.
Published: January 2021

Improved outcomes for many types of cancer achieved during recent years is due, among other factors, to the earlier detection of tumours and the greater availability of screening tests. With this, non-invasive, fast and accurate diagnostic devices for cancer diagnosis strongly improve the quality of healthcare by delivering screening results in the most cost-effective and safe way. Biosensors for cancer diagnostics exploiting aptamers offer several important advantages over traditional antibodies-based assays, such as the in-vitro aptamer production, their inexpensive and easy chemical synthesis and modification, and excellent thermal stability. On the other hand, electrochemical biosensing approaches allow sensitive, accurate and inexpensive way of sensing, due to the rapid detection with lower costs, smaller equipment size and lower power requirements. This review presents an up-to-date assessment of the recent design strategies and analytical performance of the electrochemical aptamer-based biosensors for cancer diagnosis and their future perspectives in cancer diagnostics.
A Review on Humidity, Temperature and Strain Printed Sensors—Current Trends and Future Perspectives
Authors: Barmpakos Dimitris , Kaltsas Grigoris
Published: January 2021

Printing technologies have been attracting increasing interest in the manufacture of electronic devices and sensors. They offer a unique set of advantages such as additive material deposition and low to no material waste, digitally-controlled design and printing, elimination of multiple steps for device manufacturing, wide material compatibility and large scale production to name but a few. Some of the most popular and interesting sensors are relative humidity, temperature and strain sensors. In that regard, this review analyzes the utilization and involvement of printing technologies for full or partial sensor manufacturing; production methods, material selection, sensing mechanisms and performance comparison are presented for each category, while grouping of sensor sub-categories is performed in all applicable cases. A key aim of this review is to provide a reference for sensor designers regarding all the aforementioned parameters, by highlighting strengths and weaknesses for different approaches in printed humidity, temperature and strain sensor manufacturing with printing technologies.
Evaluation of Internal Fit and Marginal Adaptation of Provisional Crowns Fabricated with Three Different Techniques
Authors: Wu Jie , Xie Hongjun , Sadr Alireza , Chung Kwok-Hung
Published: January 2021

Different techniques have been used to construct provisional crowns to protect prepared teeth. The purpose of this in vitro study was to assess the internal fit and marginal discrepancy of provisional crowns made by different methods. A total of 48 provisional crowns were constructed and divided into three groups (n = 16) according to the fabrication methods: fabricated manually-group MAN; computer-aided design/computer aided manufacturing technology-group CAM; and 3-dimensional (3D)-printed technology-group 3DP. The same standard tessellation language (STL) file was used for both CAD/CAM and 3D-printed group. The silicone-checked method was used to measure the internal gap distance. The marginal discrepancy was measured by using the polyvinyl siloxane (PVS) replica method and swept-source optical coherence tomography (OCT) scanning technique. Data were analyzed with one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis and Tukey tests at α = 0.05. At the central pit and axial walls, the gap distance mean values of group CAM were higher than those from group MAN and 3DP. The group 3DP was statistically significantly higher in gap distance at the location of occlusion than group MAN and group CAM (p < 0.05). The total gap distances assessed by silicone-checked method revealed there were no statistically significant differences between the tested groups (p > 0.05). The total mean values of absolute and horizontal marginal discrepancy of the group 3DP obtained by using the PVS-replica method and OCT scanning technique were significantly higher than the group MAN and CAM (p < 0.05). Regression correlation results of marginal discrepancy indicated a positive correlation (r = 0.902) between PVS-replica method and OCT scanning technique. The manually fabricated provisional crowns presented better internal fit and a smaller marginal discrepancy. Between different assessment techniques for marginal adaptation, PVS-replica method and OCT scanning technique have a positive correlation.
Performance of the ATMOS41 All-in-One Weather Station for Weather Monitoring
Authors: Dombrowski Olga , Hendricks Franssen Harrie-Jan , Brogi Cosimo , Bogena Heye Reemt
Published: January 2021

Affordable and accurate weather monitoring systems are essential in low-income and developing countries and, more recently, are needed in small-scale research such as precision agriculture and urban climate studies. A variety of low-cost solutions are available on the market, but the use of non-standard technologies raises concerns for data quality. Research-grade all-in-one weather stations could present a reliable, cost effective solution while being robust and easy to use. This study evaluates the performance of the commercially available ATMOS41 all-in-one weather station. Three stations were deployed next to a high-performance reference station over a three-month period. The ATMOS41 stations showed good performance compared to the reference, and close agreement among the three stations for most standard weather variables. However, measured atmospheric pressure showed uncertainties >0.6 hPa and solar radiation was underestimated by 3%, which could be corrected with a locally obtained linear regression function. Furthermore, precipitation measurements showed considerable variability, with observed differences of ±7.5% compared to the reference gauge, which suggests relatively high susceptibility to wind-induced errors. Overall, the station is well suited for private user applications such as farming, while the use in research should consider the limitations of the station, especially regarding precise precipitation measurements.
Robust Position Control of an Over-actuated Underwater Vehicle under Model Uncertainties and Ocean Current Effects Using Dynamic Sliding Mode Surface and Optimal Allocation Control
Authors: Vu Mai The , Le Tat-Hien , Thanh Ha Le Nhu Ngoc , Huynh Tuan-Tu , Van Mien , Hoang Quoc-Dong , Do Ton Duc
Published: January 2021

Underwater vehicles (UVs) are subjected to various environmental disturbances due to ocean currents, propulsion systems, and un-modeled disturbances. In practice, it is very challenging to design a control system to maintain UVs stayed at the desired static position permanently under these conditions. Therefore, in this study, a nonlinear dynamics and robust positioning control of the over-actuated autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) under the effects of ocean current and model uncertainties are presented. First, a motion equation of the over-actuated AUV under the effects of ocean current disturbances is established, and a trajectory generation of the over-actuated AUV heading angle is constructed based on the line of sight (LOS) algorithm. Second, a dynamic positioning (DP) control system based on motion control and an allocation control is proposed. For this, motion control of the over-actuated AUV based on the dynamic sliding mode control (DSMC) theory is adopted to improve the system robustness under the effects of the ocean current and model uncertainties. In addition, the stability of the system is proved based on Lyapunov criteria. Then, using the generalized forces generated from the motion control module, two different methods for optimal allocation control module: the least square (LS) method and quadratic programming (QP) method are developed to distribute a proper thrust to each thruster of the over-actuated AUV. Simulation studies are conducted to examine the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed DP controller. The results show that the proposed DP controller using the QP algorithm provides higher stability with smaller steady-state error and stronger robustness.
A Machine Learning Approach to Diagnosing Lung and Colon Cancer Using a Deep Learning-Based Classification Framework
Authors: Masud Mehedi , Sikder Niloy , Nahid Abdullah-Al , Bairagi Anupam Kumar , AlZain Mohammed A.
Published: January 2021

The field of Medicine and Healthcare has attained revolutionary advancements in the last forty years. Within this period, the actual reasons behind numerous diseases were unveiled, novel diagnostic methods were designed, and new medicines were developed. Even after all these achievements, diseases like cancer continue to haunt us since we are still vulnerable to them. Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally; about one in every six people die suffering from it. Among many types of cancers, the lung and colon variants are the most common and deadliest ones. Together, they account for more than 25% of all cancer cases. However, identifying the disease at an early stage significantly improves the chances of survival. Cancer diagnosis can be automated by using the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), which allows us to assess more cases in less time and cost. With the help of modern Deep Learning (DL) and Digital Image Processing (DIP) techniques, this paper inscribes a classification framework to differentiate among five types of lung and colon tissues (two benign and three malignant) by analyzing their histopathological images. The acquired results show that the proposed framework can identify cancer tissues with a maximum of 96.33% accuracy. Implementation of this model will help medical professionals to develop an automatic and reliable system capable of identifying various types of lung and colon cancers.
A Survey and Analysis on Electricity Consumption of Raw Material Mill System in China Cement Industry between 2014 and 2019
Authors: Meng Ruonan , Zhao Qinglin , Wu Miaomiao , Long Quanming , Zhou Mingkai
Published: January 2021

In the whole process of cement production, the electricity consumption of a raw material mill accounts for about 24% of the total. Based on the statistics of the electricity consumption of the raw material mill system of 1005 production lines in China between 2014 and 2019, it is found that the average electricity consumption of the raw material preparation process of all clinker production lines between 2014 and 2019 was 25.2 kWh/t. The average electricity consumption of different-tonnage production lines varies with time. In comparison with high-tonnage ones, the electricity consumption of low-tonnage production lines has wider distribution. The average electricity consumption of raw material mill dropped from 30.88 kWh/t in 2014 to 16.13 kWh/t in 2019, with a drop of more than half. At present, the raw material preparation process of new drying-process cement production enterprises mainly includes middle unloading drying tube mill raw material preparation system, vertical mill raw material final grinding system, and roller press raw material final grinding system. This paper compares the characteristics of several grinding systems and summarizes their influence on the electricity consumption.
Adoption and Use of Learning Management Systems in Education: The Role of Playfulness and Self-Management
Authors: Balkaya Selen , Akkucuk Ulas
Published: January 2021

This article investigates the factors affecting primary and secondary education teachers’ behavioral intention to adopt learning management systems (LMSs). Information technology (IT) innovations have the power to change the way we work, educate, learn, and basically the way we live. The effect of IT innovations on education makes it critical to understand the current usage situation of LMSs and the factors affecting their adoption by teachers. The unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) was extended with factors from education and game-based learning literature. In order to see the effect of individual- and organizational-level characteristics, multi-group structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis was conducted and discrepancies in relationships were reported. Evaluation of users and non-users and teachers of different fields were also compared to each other. The findings of this study not only contribute to theory through the development and testing of a thorough model relating technology features and individual characteristics to behavioral intention to use, but also offer strong implications for practitioners who would like to increase LMS usage and create a more effective learning environment.
Joint Optimization of Intersection Control and Trajectory Planning Accounting for Pedestrians in a Connected and Automated Vehicle Environment
Authors: Yin Biao , Menendez Monica , Yang Kaidi
Published: January 2021

Connected and automated vehicle (CAV) technology makes it possible to track and control the movement of vehicles, thus providing enormous potential to improve intersection operations. In this paper, we study the traffic signal control problem at an isolated intersection in a CAV environment, considering mixed traffic including various types of vehicles and pedestrians. Both the vehicle delay and the pedestrian delay are incorporated into the model formulation. This introduces some additional complexity, as any benefits to pedestrians will come at the expense of higher delays for the vehicles. Thus, some valid questions we answer in this paper are as follows: Under which circumstances could we provide priority to pedestrians without over penalizing the vehicles at the intersection? How important are the connectivity and autonomy associated with CAV technology in this context? What type of signal control algorithm could be used to minimize person delay accounting for both vehicles and pedestrians? How could it be solved efficiently? To address these questions, we present a model that optimizes signal control (i.e., vehicle departure sequence), automated vehicle trajectories, and the treatment of pedestrian crossing. In each decision step, the weighted sum of the vehicle delay and the pedestrian delay (e.g., the total person delay) is minimized by the joint optimization on the basis of the predicted departure sequences of vehicles and pedestrians. Moreover, a near-optimal solution of the integrated problem is obtained with an ant colony system algorithm, which is computationally very efficient. Simulations are conducted for different demand scenarios and different CAV penetration rates. The performance of the proposed algorithm in terms of the average person delay is investigated. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm has potential to reduce the delay compared to an actuated signal control method. Moreover, in comparison to a CAV-based signal control that does not account for the pedestrian delay, the joint optimization proposed here can achieve improvement in the low- and moderate-vehicle-demand scenarios.
Pan-American Lancehead Pit-Vipers: Coagulotoxic Venom Effects and Antivenom Neutralisation of Bothrops asper and B. atrox Geographical Variants
Authors: Bourke Lachlan A. , Zdenek Christina N. , Neri-Castro Edgar , Bénard-Valle Melisa , Alagón Alejandro , Gutiérrez José María , Sanchez Eladio F. , Aldridge Matt , Fry Bryan G.
Published: January 2021

The toxin composition of snake venoms and, thus, their functional activity, can vary between and within species. Intraspecific venom variation across a species’ geographic range is a major concern for antivenom treatment of envenomations, particularly for countries like French Guiana that lack a locally produced antivenom. Bothrops asper and Bothrops atrox are the most medically significant species of snakes in Latin America, both producing a variety of clinical manifestations, including systemic bleeding. These pathophysiological actions are due to the activation by the venom of the blood clotting factors Factor X and prothrombin, thereby causing severe consumptive coagulopathy. Both species are extremely wide-ranging, and previous studies have shown their venoms to exhibit regional venom variation. In this study, we investigate the differential coagulotoxic effects on human plasma of six venoms (four B. asper and two B. atrox samples) from different geographic locations, spanning from Mexico to Peru. We assessed how the venom variation of these venom samples affects neutralisation by five regionally available antivenoms: Antivipmyn, Antivipmyn-Tri, PoliVal-ICP, Bothrofav, and Soro Antibotrópico (SAB). The results revealed both inter- and intraspecific variations in the clotting activity of the venoms. These variations in turn resulted in significant variation in antivenom efficacy against the coagulotoxic effects of these venoms. Due to variations in the venoms used in the antivenom production process, antivenoms differed in their species-specific or geographical neutralisation capacity. Some antivenoms (PoliVal-ICP, Bothrofav, and SAB) showed species-specific patterns of neutralisation, while another antivenom (Antivipmyn) showed geographic-specific patterns of neutralisation. This study adds to current knowledge of Bothrops venoms and also illustrates the importance of considering evolutionary biology when developing antivenoms. Therefore, these results have tangible, real-world implications by aiding evidence-based design of antivenoms for treatment of the envenomed patient. We stress that these in vitro studies must be backed by future in vivo studies and clinical trials before therapeutic guidelines are issued regarding specific antivenom use in a clinical setting.
Delivery of mRNA Vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 Using a Polyglucin:Spermidine Conjugate
Authors: Karpenko Larisa I. , Rudometov Andrey P. , Sharabrin Sergei V. , Shcherbakov Dmitry N. , Borgoyakova Mariya B. , Bazhan Sergei I. , Volosnikova Ekaterina A. , Rudometova Nadezhda B. , Orlova Lyubov A. , Pyshnaya Inna A. , Zaitsev Boris N. , Volkova Natalya V. , Azaev Mamedyar Sh. , Zaykovskaya Anna V. , Pyankov Oleg V. , Ilyichev Alexander A.
Published: January 2021

One of the key stages in the development of mRNA vaccines is their delivery. Along with liposome, other materials are being developed for mRNA delivery that can ensure both the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine, and also facilitate its storage and transportation. In this study, we investigated the polyglucin:spermidine conjugate as a carrier of an mRNA-RBD vaccine encoding the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The conditions for the self-assembling of mRNA-PGS complexes were optimized, including the selection of the mRNA:PGS charge ratios. Using dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering it was shown that the most monodisperse suspension of nanoparticles was formed at the mRNA:PGS charge ratio equal to 1:5. The average hydrodynamic particles diameter was determined, and it was confirmed by electron microscopy. The evaluation of the zeta potential of the investigated complexes showed that the particles surface charge was close to the zero point. This may indicate that the positively charged PGS conjugate has completely packed the negatively charged mRNA molecules. It has been shown that the packaging of mRNA-RBD into the PGS envelope leads to increased production of specific antibodies with virus-neutralizing activity in immunized BALB/c mice. Our results showed that the proposed polycationic polyglucin:spermidine conjugate can be considered a promising and safe means to the delivery of mRNA vaccines, in particular mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2.
Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Flu Vaccination in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Gawryś Ada , Gołębiowski Tomasz , Zielińska Dorota , Augustyniak-Bartosik Hanna , Kuriata-Kordek Magdalena , Szenborn Leszek , Krajewska Magdalena
Published: January 2021

Background: Hemodialysis (HD) patients have an increased risk of morbidity and mortality due to infections. Despite the positive effect of vaccinations, the implementation of this method of prophylaxis is low. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the knowledge, attitudes and practices of flu vaccination among HD patients of two different dialysis centers. Methods: A total of 193 patients (mean age 63.6 years), who voluntarily agreed to participate in an anonymous survey related to influenza vaccination, were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Results: A total of 45% of patients declared that they took regular, annual flu vaccination. In this group, 87.4% believed that vaccinations were effective. This opinion strongly correlated with the frequency of regular vaccinations (r = 0.56, p < 0.01). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that this opinion is an independent predictor of regular vaccinations with adjusted OR 9.86 (95% CI 4.36, 22.33). Groups of patients who had been irregularly or never vaccinated reject vaccinations for the following reasons: fear of adverse events—29.2%, conviction that vaccination was ineffective—26.4%, and lack of information about vaccination—22.6%. Conclusion: Knowledge among HD patients about the benefits of vaccinations is poor. Therefore, educational activities are required. Active vaccination promotion and education of patients rejecting this method of prevention play a key role in improving standards of care for HD patients.
Hierarchical Network-Augmented Hydroglasses for Broadband Light Management
Authors: Lei Zhouyue , Wu Baohu , Wu Peiyi
Published: January 2021

Light management is essential for military stealth, optical information communication, and energy-efficient buildings. However, current light management materials face challenges of limited optical modulation range and poor mechanical properties. Herein, we report a locally confined polymerization (LCP) approach to develop hierarchical network-augmented hydroglasses (HNAH) based on poly(methacrylic acid) for broadband light management as well as mechanical enhancement. The dynamic geometry of the networks ranging from nano- to micro-scale enables to manage the light wavelength over three orders of magnitude, from the ultraviolet (UV) to infrared (IR) band, and reversibly switches transmittance in the visible region. A smart hydroglass window is developed with elasticity, outstanding robustness, self-healing, notch resistance, biosafety by blocking UV radiation, and high solar energy shielding efficacy with a temperature drop of 13°C. Compared to current inorganic glasses and Plexiglas, the hydroglass not only is a promising and versatile candidate but also provides novel insights into the molecular and structural design of broadband light management and optimized mechanical properties.
To Integrated Management and Financial Coverage for Health Care Infrastructure of Zaporizhchyna Districts
Authors: Gorbachuk V. , Garvilenko S. , Golotsukov G. , Dunaievskyi M. , Nikolenko D.
Published: January 2021

Introduction. Health care is characterized by the fact that it belongs to the major state functions and the main kinds of economic activity at the same time, as well as the fact that in contemporary conditions it provides dual-use products – use for both conventional and defense against the latest biothreats. In the course of reforming this state function in Ukraine, the main financing is provided through the National Health Service of Ukraine, where management changes relatively frequently.

The purpose. Protection against biohazards, health care, health insurance requires systemic resilience and integrated management based on modern information and communication technologies. Such technologies for social insurance have been successfully developed and implemented by the V.M.Glushkov Institute of Cybernetics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine.

Results. A specific example of Zaporizhia region shows which health facilities are without proper government support and how to anticipate and manage distributed networks on big data. In all the above issues of protection against biohazards, health care, health insurance, government institutions cannot make rational decisions without comprehensive and accurate assessment of future gains (and losses) caused by the implementation of a particular project, as well as a comparison of such gains with the present value of costs associated with this project. It is important for decision makers to measure gains and costs in the same units applying the known principle «Who canʼt measure cannot manage». Since project costs are usually measured in monetary terms, it makes sense to measure all gains in monetary terms as well. Different approaches to economic assessment of health status compare the benefits from a medical intervention with the costs of that intervention.

Conclusions. Gains from medical intervention can be measured in physical units on a one-dimensional scale, monetary units, units of cardinal utility function, reflecting the multidimensional concept of health via the scalar index or key performance indicator. Nowadays multiple dimensions mentioned are gradually developing into big data for each node and link of the health care grid.

Keywords: biothreats, system resilience, social insurance, health insurance, big data, distributed networks.
A Antecipação da Tutela Baseada no Abuso do Direito de Defesa: A Contribuição de Calmon de Passos
Authors: Dotti Rogéria Fagundes
Published: January 2021

O presente artigo procura relembrar lições do professor J.J. Calmon de Passos  em relação à tutela provisória baseada no abuso do direito de defesa. Ele aborda a tutela da evidência no sistema anterior e no Código de Processo Civil de 2015. Analisa ainda a efetividade do processo mediante a antecipação.
Acute Visual Loss as a First Sign of Hyperhomocysteinaemia
Authors: Kolea Aggeliki , Baltatzidis Aggelos , Margaritis Vasileios , Almoghrabi Belal , Kaldi Irini , Polychronakos Alexandros
Published: January 2021

A 38-year-old man presented with an acute right homonymous visual field defect due to occipital lobe infarct caused by hyperhomocysteinaemia. Visual field testing, magnetic resonance imaging, laboratory studies, and genetic analysis were carried out. On magnetic resonance imaging, a left occipital lesion with bright signal on the diffusion-weighted and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery images suggested a diagnosis of an acute infarct. Blood tests revealed raised homocysteine of 52.08 μmol/L (reference range, <15 μmol/L) and genetic analysis showed the patient to be homozygote to 5, 10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase deficiency. Hyperhomocysteinaemia is a rare causes of acute visual loss due to cerebral ischaemia and should always be suspected and investigated with the appropriate tests to diagnose the condition and limit further vision deterioration.
Purtscher’s Retinopathy Associated with Tortuous Internal Carotid Artery
Authors: Park Soo , Lim Lik Thai , Fetherston Timothy
Published: January 2021

This report is of a 71-year-old woman with unilateral non-traumatic left Purtscher’s retinopathy following shoulder exercises. She developed blurred vision in the left eye a few hours after the exercises. The only clinical findings of note were an ipsilateral tortuous internal carotid artery and multiple cotton wool spots around the left macula region consistent with Purtscher’s retinopathy. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report illustrating internal carotid artery tortuosity as an underlying rare cause of Purtscher’s retinopathy.
Effect of Varying Duration of Ocular Compression on Raised Intraocular Pressure following Fractionated Peribulbar Anaesthesia for Cataract Surgery
Authors: Venkatakrishnan Jaichandran , Vijaya Lingam , George Ronnie J. , Maruthamuthu Thennarasu
Published: January 2021

Aim: To evaluate the effect of fractionated peribulbar anaesthesia and varying digital ocular compression time on intraocular pressure.Methods: Forty non-glaucomatous patients aged 40 years and older planned for cataract surgery were randomly divided into 2 groups based on the duration for which the globe was compressed digitally following each injection. Patients with a history of glaucoma or those who had had previous ocular surgery were excluded. Group 1 underwent 1 minute of compression and group 2 underwent 2 minutes of compression. Local anaesthetic (2% lidocaine 5 mL, 0.5% bupivacaine 5 mL, and hyaluronidase 25 IU/mL) was injected into the inferotemporal and superomedial quadrants. Intraocular pressure was measured (3 readings with <5% SD) before peribulbar block, after inferotemporal injection, following digital compression, after superomedial injection, following digital compression again, and at 1-minute intervals without compression until the globe attained normotension.Results: The mean (SD) intraocular pressure in group 1 was significantly elevated compared with the baseline mean intraocular pressure of 19.21 mm Hg (SD, 2.82 mm Hg) throughout the procedure (p < 0.0001). In group 2, the mean intraocular pressure was not significantly elevated from the baseline mean intraocular pressure of 19.13 mm Hg (SD, 3.27 mm Hg) following compression after each injection.Conclusions: Intraocular pressure rises significantly following each 5 mL of local anaesthetic injected into the peribulbar space at both the inferotemporal and superomedial sites. Digital ocular compression given for 2 minutes after each injection makes the globe normotensive.
Multifocal Electroretinogram in Hydroxychloroquine-related Macular Toxicity
Authors: Sen Parveen , Ravi Priya , Roy Rupak
Published: January 2021

Prolonged use of hydroxychloroquine is common in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Retinal toxicity due to hydroxychloroquine is known, and is monitored by investigations such as visual acuity, Amsler chart, colour vision, automated perimetry, full-field electroretinogram, and electrooculogram. Multifocal electroretinogram can suggest macular toxicity due to hydroxychloroquine even when the other investigations have normal results. Hence, multifocal electroretinogram has a role in the screening and follow-up of patients with suspected hydroxychloroquine toxicity.
Role of Sequential Treatment of Paracentesis Followed by Laser Peripheral Iridotomy in Acute Primary Angle Closure
Authors: Artini Widya , Gondowiardjo Tjahjono D. , Afandi Edi S.
Published: January 2021

Aim: To assess the role of sequential treatment of paracentesis followed by laser peripheral iridotomy in acute primary angle closure.Methods: This was a prospective interventional study of acute primary angle closure in Indonesian patients. All eyes underwent paracentesis immediately after admission to reduce the intraocular pressure, followed by laser peripheral iridotomy on the following day to relieve pupillary blockade. A comprehensive eye examination was performed. The criterion for success was intraocular pressure <21 mm Hg with or without glaucoma medication. Risk factors assessed were age, duration of acute symptoms, presenting intraocular pressure, intraocular pressure response to paracentesis and to laser peripheral iridotomy, anterior chamber depth, and extent of peripheral anterior synechiae.Results: Forty five eyes of 45 patients with acute primary angle closure were recruited, of whom 38 were women. The duration of symptoms ranged from 2 to 30 days (median, 14 days). The mean extent of peripheral anterior synechiae was 7.7 clock hours (SD, 3.1 clock hours) and the mean presenting intraocular pressure was 55.9 mm Hg (SD, 13.4 mm Hg; range, 30.0-78.0 mm Hg). After paracentesis, the mean intraocular pressure decreased to 27.0 (SD, 12.8 mm Hg; range, 15.0-54.0 mm Hg). After laser peripheral iridotomy, the mean intraocular pressure was 24.0 mm Hg (SD, 15.2 mm Hg; range 8.0-40.0 mm Hg). Success was achieved in 21 eyes and the variable risk factor influencing success was extent of peripheral anterior synechiae.Conclusion: The success rate for sequential treatment was 47% of affected eyes and was determined mostly by the extent of peripheral anterior synechiae.
Abstracts of the 7th International Congress on Glaucoma Surgery
Authors: Shaarawy Tarek
Published: January 2021

This supplement contains all abstracts from ICGS-2014
Awareness and attitude of spectacle wearers to alternatives to corrective eyeglasses
Authors: Ayanniyi Abdulkabir Ayansiji , Olatunji Fatai Olasunkanmi , Hassan Ramatu Yahaya , Adekoya Bola Josephine , Monsudi Kehinde Fasasi , Jamda Abubakar Mustapha
Published: January 2021

Aim: It has been observed that potential beneficiaries rarely request for alternatives to corrective eyeglasses in our setting. The objective of this study was to determine awareness and attitude towards alternatives to spectacle correction, specifically; contact lens and refractive eye surgery among spectacle wearers in a resource-limited setting.Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 214 spectacle wearers in seven Nigerian hospitals using semi-structured questionnaire. Information sought included demographic characteristics, awareness, and attitudes to contact lens and refractive eye surgery as well as reasons for the poor interest in alternatives to eyeglasses.Results: There were 93 males and 121 females, with a mean age of 40.2 years (SD 15.8.). Most, 198 (92.6%) had at least secondary education. Ninety-eight (45.8%) and 113 (52.8%) patients were aware of the options of contact lens and refractive eye surgery respectively, but 171 (80%) were averse to wearing contact lenses or having refractive eye surgery. Reasons given included lack of information, high cost, and possible complications that may arise. Higher education was significantly associated with participants’ awareness of alternatives to eyeglasses (contact lens [P = 0.016], refractive eye surgery [P=0.009]) but not with willingness to use contact lens (P = 0.96) or refractive eye surgery (P = 0.425).Conclusion: There was relatively high awareness but low willingness to use alternatives to corrective eyeglasses among users. Education on alternatives to corrective eyeglasses, allaying fears on their complications, and making them more affordable could enhance awareness and create a more positive attitude towards them.
Opacification of intraocular lens implant after uncomplicated cataract surgery: A case series
Authors: Wong Ching-Lin , Karunakar T.V.N. , Lee Ming-Yueh , Sendhil K.S.
Published: January 2021

Opacification of intraocular lens implant after successful cataract surgery is an important issue with the introduction of new intraocular lens. The complexity of the problem is not merely associated with visual impairment, but also lies in the difficulty in diagnosis and management of the case. We report 3 cases of late postoperative opacification of IOL implants warranted IOL exchange.
Embolization of dural carotid cavernous fistula via the superior ophthalmic vein approach: a case report
Authors: Lim Nigel CS , Lin Hazel Anne , Tang Kok Kee , Ong Cheng Kang , Sundar Gangadhara
Published: January 2021

In this case report, we present a patient with Type B dural carotid-cavernous fistula (CCF), who had failed cannulation via the transfemoral route and subsequently underwent CCF occlusion via the anterior orbital approach through the superior ophthalmic vein (SOV). Successful occlusion of CCF was achieved, with excellent visual and cosmetic outcomes postoperatively. When all venous routes have been exhausted, the SOV approach is an excellent and viable alternative in the treatment of dural CCFs. Close cooperation between the orbital and neuro-interventional teams in a hybrid operating theatre setting is essential in ensuring success of the operation.
Comparison of accuracy of Partial Coherence Interferometry based Zeiss IOL Master 500 and Immersion Ultrasound [Ocuscan RXP] for intraocular lens power calculation
Authors: Pai Vijaya , Shastri Divya , Kamath Asha
Published: January 2021

Aim: To compare accuracy of intraocular lens power (IOL) calculation using Partial coherence Interferometry based Carl Zeiss IOL master 500 and Immersion ultrasound (Alcon Ocuscan RXP). Methods: A prospective randomized study of patients who underwent clear corneal phacoemulsification with foldable (IOL) by a single surgeon, during the period September 2010 to 2012. Group A included those patients in whom IOL power calculation using Immersion ultrasound (Ocuscan RXP) was used. Group B included those patients in whom IOL power calculation using Partial coherence Interferometry based Zeiss IOL master was used. SRK T formula was used to calculate the IOL power in both the groups. Postoperative final refraction was done at 6 weeks. Unaided visual acuity and best corrected visual acuity was assessed. Postoperative refractive error was compared with predicted refractive error with each biometry method. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS 16.5. Continuous variables expressed as mean (standard deviation). P < 0.05 was considered significant.Results: There were 50 patients in Group A, 44 patients in Group B. Axial length of the patients varied from 22-26mm in both the groups. The postoperative refraction using Ocuscan, 88% had refractive error ≤± 0.5 D, 94% had ≤±1.00D, and 100% had ≤±2.0D of emmetropia. Using Zeiss IOL Master 72.7% had ≤± 0.5 D, 100% had ≤±1.00D of refractive error. Difference in absolute postoperative refractive error using Ocuscan vs. IOL Master was not statistically significant. Conclusion: In our study both ultrasound Ocuscan and IOL master were accurate in calculating intraocular lens power and achieving postoperative refraction closer to emmetropia.
Posterior segment involvelent in remote lightning strike
Authors: Singh Atul Kumar
Published: January 2021

Some form of ophthalmic injury is seen in the majority of lightening victims. These may be anterior segment involvement, mostly the cornea. Other lesion on the anterior segment include uveitis, hyphaema, cataract and dislocated lens. Posterior segment lesion include vitreous haemorrhage, retinal oedema, retinal haemorrhage, retinal detachment, cystoids macular oedema, chorioretinalrupture, maculopathy, CRVO and CRAO. Neuro-ophthalmic lesion include loss of pupillaryreflex, anisocoria, horner syndrome, multiple cranial nerve palsies and nystagmus.
Chronic pseudophakic aqueous misdirection
Authors: Kaleem Mona A. , Eisengart Jonathan , Oberfeld Sheldon
Published: January 2021

A 61 year old female with no prior ocular history developed progressive anterior chamber shallowing following uncomplicated phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation. This shallowing rapidly accelerated after Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy, and led to a significant myopic shift. Ultrasound biomicroscopy imaging demonstrated anterior displacement of the irido-lenticular diaphragm and anterior rotation of ciliary processes confirming a diagnosis of aqueous misdirection. One year after Nd:YAG anterior hyaloidotomy and medical therapy, her anterior chamber deepened and myopic shift resolved. This case demonstrates the successful management of chronic pseudophakic aqueous misdirection without the need for surgical intervention.
Five year refractive outcome of LASIK for myopia and myopic astigmatism in Vietnam
Authors: Pham Thanh Ngoc Dan
Published: January 2021

Purpose: To assess the long-term refractive outcome of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) for myopia and myopic astigmatismDesign:  An observational, single center, multisurgeon case seriesMethods: This study was a follow up study of 128 patients contacted to return for repeat investigation post refractive surgery. It included 245 eyes of 128 patients who underwent LASIK for myopia or myopic astigmatism at the Ho Chi Minh City Eye Hospital, Vietnam in 2008. Surgical parameters as well as patient data at presentation, three months and five years after surgery were analyzed. The main outcome was spherical equivalent (SE) within ± 0.5D at 5 years. Results: At the fifth year follow up, 80% of eyes were within ± 0.5D and 98% of eyes were within ± 1.0D of emmetropia. No eyes underwent laser enhancement prior to the last visit although the retreatment criteria was met in 45 eyes (18.4%). The mean SE decreased from 0.16 ± 0.33 at 3 months to -0.07 ± 0.50 at 5 years for the whole cohort. Patients with severe myopia were most susceptible to myopic regression and had a less predictable refractive outcome. The overall UCVA of 20/20 or better and of 20/40 or better were obtained in 68.2% and 95.1% of eyes. Fourteen eyes (5.7%) improved 1 line of BCVA. Forty two eyes (17.1%) lost 2 lines of BCVA which were unrelated to laser complications.Conclusion: Although there was myopic regression over time, LASIK provided excellent  5 year refractive outcome for myopia and myopic astigmatism.  Almost 20% of patients meet criteria for retreatment but do not seek a retreatment in this Vietnamese population.