bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic analysis of a modified algae and fish model with aggregation and Allee effect
Authors: Huang Shengyu ,   Key Laboratory for Subtropical Oceans & Lakes Environment and Biological Resources Utilization Technology of Zhejiang, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China, Yu Hengguo , Dai Chuanjun , Ma Zengling , Wang Qi , Zhao Min ,   School of Mathematics and Physics, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China,   School of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
Published: February 2022

In the paper, under the stress of aggregation and reproduction mechanism of algae, we proposed a modified algae and fish model with aggregation and Allee effect, its main purpose was to further ascertain the dynamic relationship between algae and fish. Several critical conditions were investigated to guarantee the existence and stabilization of all possible equilibrium points, and ensure that the model could undergo transcritical bifurcation, saddle-node bifurcation, Hopf bifurcation and B-T bifurcation. Numerical simulation results of related bifurcation dynamics were provided to verify the feasibility of theoretical derivation, and visually demonstrate the changing trend of the dynamic relationship. Our results generalized and improved some known results, and showed that the aggregation and Allee effect played a vital role in the dynamic relationship between algae and fish.
De « l’ordinauteur » à « l’ordilecteur » : la mécanisation de la littérature dans les fictions pour la jeunesse de Christian Grenier
Authors: Langbour Nadège
Published: February 2022

Dans ses romans policiers et dans ses romans de science-fiction, Christian Grenier met souvent en scène une fusion de l’écrivain et de l’ordinateur, voire une substitution de l’ordinateur à l’écrivain. Ce thème romanesque lui permet d’interroger le statut de l’auteur et la nature de la littérature à l’ère numérique. Comment les outils numériques ont-ils modifié le processus créateur des romanciers contemporains ? Comment ont-ils modifié, aussi, le processus de réception des textes par le lecteur ? En développant une écriture inspirée des mécanismes numériques, Christian Grenier propose une réflexion sur la place de la machine dans la littérature d’aujourd’hui.
Cat-Squirrel Optimization Algorithm for VM Migration in a Cloud Computing Platform
Authors: C. Ashok Kumar , P. Sivakumar
Published: February 2022

This paper introduces an approach for the VM migration based on optimization algorithm, named CS in cloud. The provider to be selected is carried out with the usage of multiple constraints, like delay, bandwidth, cost, and load. Subsequently, the effective searching criteria are computed for finding the optimal service on the basis of fitness constraints. The searching criteria are formulated as optimization problems, which are tackled using CS. The proposed CS is designed by integrating CSO with the SSA such that the fitness function is evaluated for the optimal VM migration by considering several parameters, such as delay, cost, bandwidth, and load. Thus, the cloud manager will perform the migration of VM in cloud based on proposed CS-based VM migration approach. The performance of the CS-based VM migration is evaluated in terms of delay, cost, and load. The proposed CS-based VM migration method achieves the minimal delay of 0.146, minimal cost of 0.052, and the minimal load of 0.182.
Inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 Patient Samples for Contemporary Immunology and Metabolomics Studies
Authors: Eddins Devon J , Bassit Leda C , Chandler Joshua D , Haddad Natalie S , Musall Kathryn L , Yang Junkai , Kosters Astrid , Dobosh Brian S , Hernández Mindy R , Ramonell Richard P , Tirouvanziam Rabindra M , Lee F Eun-Hyung , Zandi Keivan , Schinazi Raymond F , Ghosn Eliver E B
Published: February 2022

Due to the severity of COVID-19 disease, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and World Health Organization recommend that manipulation of active viral cultures of SARS-CoV-2 and respiratory secretions from COVID-19 patients be performed in biosafety level (BSL)3 laboratories. Therefore, it is imperative to develop viral inactivation procedures that permit samples to be transferred to lower containment levels (BSL2), while maintaining the fidelity of complex downstream assays to expedite the development of medical countermeasures. In this study, we demonstrate optimal conditions for complete viral inactivation following fixation of infected cells with commonly used reagents for flow cytometry, UVC inactivation in sera and respiratory secretions for protein and Ab detection, heat inactivation following cDNA amplification for droplet-based single-cell mRNA sequencing, and extraction with an organic solvent for metabolomic studies. Thus, we provide a suite of viral inactivation protocols for downstream contemporary assays that facilitate sample transfer to BSL2, providing a conceptual framework for rapid initiation of high-fidelity research as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.
Implementation of Trusted Manufacturing & AI-based process optimization into microelectronic manufacturing research environments
Authors: Becker K.-F. , Voges S. , Fruehauf P. , Heimann M. , Nerreter S. , Blank R. , Erdmann M. , Gottwald S. , Hofmeister A. , Hesse M. , Thies M. , Mehrafsun S. , Fust R. , Beck E. , Pawlikowski J. , Schröder B. , Voight C. , Braun T. , Schneider-Ramelow M.
Published: February 2022

Digitization is one of the hot topics in all Industry 4.0 efforts that are currently discussed. Often the focus is on digitization of business processes with a financial/organizational perspective on manufacturing, so the tools are adapting to enterprise resource planning [ERP] and manufacturing execution system [MES] rather than on actual manufacturing issues on the shop floor. Within the SiEvEI 4.0 project, a research consortium from the area of electronics manufacturing is working on digitization for a manufacturing scenario where high value electronic goods are built in a distributed manufacturing environment. The key research topics addressed are the implementation of a Chain of Trust [CoT] for such a distributed manufacturing, i.e. and the application of artificial intelligence/machine learning to analyze and eventually optimize manufacturing processes.

The paper will introduce the concept of both COT and AI-based process analysis that will later on transferred into a microelectronics production environment. Two reference processes are targeted, SMD assembly using fully automated manufacturing equipment and Solder Ball Application using a high-mix/low volume concept.

As a result, the paper presents a concept of how to digitize manufacturing processes and use this digital description of a process combination to make a distributed manufacturing flow safe and increase product/process quality.
Impact of Bonding Sequence on Contact Resistance in Hybrid Bonding of Via-middle TSV Wafer
Authors: Watanabe Naoya , Yamamoto Hiroshi , Mitsui Takahiko , Yamamoto Eiichi
Published: February 2022

This study examines the impact of the bonding sequence on the contact resistance in the hybrid bonding of a via-middle Cu though-silicon via (TSV) wafer. Hybrid bonding was performed at room temperature via a surface-activated bonding method using an ultrathin Si film. Comparative study of various bonding sequences revealed that the (a) cleaning of the target Si, via-middle TSV, and Cu electrode wafers with an Ar fast atom beam (FAB), (b) transferring of the Cu electrode wafer into another chamber during cleaning of the via-middle TSV wafer, and (c) transferring of the via-middle TSV wafer to another chamber while cleaning the Cu electrode wafer were all effective in decreasing the oxygen atoms in the bonding interface (amorphous Si layer) and reducing the contact resistances between the TSVs and Cu electrodes.
Charactarization of Formaldehyde-Free Electro-Less Copper Plating for Semi-Additive Process
Authors: Takeuchi Masaharu , Nakayama Tomoharu , Yamamoto Hisamitsu
Published: February 2022

Typically, industrial electroless copper plating solutions use formaldehyde as a reducing agent. However, since formaldehyde has a strong odor and is a carcinogenic substance, it has an adverse effect on the working environment and the human body. Therefore, an electro-less copper plating solution containing no formaldehyde is desired. We have researched and developed a formaldehyde-free electro-less copper plating solution and evaluated its properties for applications such as panel level package (PLP). Price is the main reason for selecting agents with reducing power to copper for use in the plating market. We promoted to develop the plating solution using sodium hypophosphite as a reducing agent, which is the next least expensive after formalin solution. The reducing agent used in this plating solution has low catalytic activity for copper. As a result, when the palladium catalyst on the resin is covered with copper plating, the plating deposition rate is reduced. In order to prevent the deposition reaction from stopping during plating, a metal salt with high catalytic activity for this reducing agent is plated. The method of adding to the liquid was carried out. As a result, the bath stability of the development bath is excellent because no Cannizzaro reaction or disproportionate reaction of the first copper ion occurs, unlike ordinary electro-less copper plating solutions. This is a major advantage in terms of running costs and requirements for ancillary the plating equipment. When the characteristics of the plating film by development bath were examined, the internal stress was found to be as low as 150 MPa on the tensile side. The adhesion to the ABF resin was high, ranging from 500 to 700 gf/cm. Also it exhibits excellent plating deposition inside blind via hole (BVH) which is equivalent to that of general electro-less copper plating solution, it can be applied to semi-additive process package boards where electro-less copper plating film is etched.
Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: El Chazli Yasmine , Salama Mostafa , El-leboody Samar , Elsharkawy Asmaa , Hassouna Hadir
Published: February 2022

Background

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a life-threatening condition that shares common features with severe sepsis. This study aimed to report the number of children with suspected HLH in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and to compare clinical and laboratory criteria of patients who met the HLH criteria versus those who did not meet HLH criteria to determine the red flags suggesting HLH.

Patients and methods

This retrospective study included all patients admitted to the PICU of the Alexandria University Children’s Hospital in Egypt, over four years from January 2016 to December 2019. Patients were screened for the presence of fever, splenomegaly, and cytopenias; if positive, they were considered as clinically suspected HLH and included in the study.

Results

Among 1056 patients admitted to PICU during the study period, 54 (5.1%) patients have been identified as clinically suspected HLH. Patients’ ages ranged between 1 and 156 months with a median of 17 months. According to HLH-2004 diagnostic criteria, hyperferritinemia was present in all tested patients, hypertriglyceridemia in 63.8%, hypofibrinogenemia in 47.6%, hemophagocytosis in 25%, and elevated soluble CD25 in 84.6%. Seventeen patients (31.5%) fulfilled greater than or equal to 5 HLH-2004 diagnostic criteria, although only 13 (24.1%) patients were fully investigated. The Hscore was higher in patients meeting HLH criteria (P<0.001), but the Pediatric Logistic Organ Dysfunction 2 score was lower (P=0.08). The overall mortality was 63%; more patients (76.5%) died in the HLH group (P=0.16) with a shorter median PICU stay (P=0.03).

Conclusion

The present study reported the clinical characteristics of children with clinically suspected HLH in a central PICU from a low–middle-income country. HLH was not adequately investigated in PICU patients, and the mortality rate was high. Raising awareness about HLH among PICU physicians is mandatory to minimize missing the diagnosis of HLH.
Immunoglobulin deficiency among children with severe overwhelming sepsis admitted to Alexandria University Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: El Sawy Ihab H. , EL-Nawawy Ahmed A. , El Deriny Ghada F. , Elkaim Amal A K.
Published: February 2022

Background

Worldwide, severe overwhelming sepsis is still a major cause of morbidity and mortality, especially among infants and children. Most severe sepsis and septic shock deaths are due to dysregulated immune response, resulting in multiple organ dysfunction, a part of which is low immunoglobulin (Ig) levels. Hypogammaglobulinemia is a frequent finding in patients with severe sepsis and septic shock, although it is not clear whether it is a cause or a consequence of sepsis.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of Igs deficiency and its relation to mortality among children with severe overwhelming sepsis admitted to Alexandria University Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

Patients and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 40 patients with severe sepsis and/or septic shock during an 18-month period at Pediatric Intensive Care Unit of Alexandria University Children’s Hospital and 40 age-matched control group admitted to the ward with an infectious process. Their age ranged from 12 months to 12 years. All patients were subjected to history taking and routine investigations done at admission. Serum from the initial blood draw was collected and stored at −70°C to measure the level of total IgG, IgM, and IgA by immunoturbidimetric assay.

Results

In the severe sepsis/septic shock group, 55.26% of the patients had a deficiency in total Igs (low IgG, IgM, and IgA in 55.26, 5.26, and 21.05%, respectively) versus 17.5% in controls (low IgG, IgM, and IgA in 12.5, 0, and 7.5%, respectively). The overall mortality among the patients with severe sepsis/septic shock was high (34.21%), and the likelihood of death for Igs-deficient patients was 3.916 times more than the Igs-normal patients (P=0.048), whereas all patients in the control group survived. Survival curve analysis revealed the significant predictive ability of IgG to detect early mortality. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed the significant predictive ability of the relative concentrations of IgG, IgM, and IgA (P=0.0019, P<0.0001, and P=0.0217, respectively) at day 1 to detect mortality.

Conclusion

We documented relatively high frequencies of low IgG, IgM, and IgA in patients with severe sepsis and septic shock, and also low levels of IgG and IgM were an independent risk factor of mortality. The role of hypogammaglobulinemia in patients with severe sepsis and septic shock clearly warrants future controlled clinical trials with intravenous immunoglobulin use in this disease category.
Prolactinoma Outcome After Pregnancy and Lactation: A Cohort Study
Authors: Laway Bashir A. , Baba Mohammad S. , Bansiwal Sailesh K. , Choh Naseer A.
Published: February 2022

Context:

Prolactinoma is the most frequent pituitary tumor among women of childbearing age. Fewer studies have addressed the outcome of prolactinomas after gestation.

Objective:

The aim was to study the spontaneous remission rate and change in tumor size after pregnancy and/or lactation in women with prolactinomas.

Patients and Methods:

Retrospective study conducted at a tertiary care center of north India. Records of 25 women with 31 pregnancies (20 microprolactinomas and 11 macroprolactinomas), who conceived on dopamine agonist (cabergoline) were studied. Cabergoline was stopped at conception in 24 pregnancies and continued in 7. Serum prolactin was noted 3 months after delivery and/or lactation. Magnetic resonance imaging available at last visit after delivery and/or lactation was also noted. Remission was defined as normal serum prolactin after pregnancy and/or lactation without use of cabergoline.

Results:

Among patients in whom cabergoline was stopped during pregnancy (n = 24), 41.6% (n = 10) had prolactin in normal range (achieved remission) after pregnancy and/or lactation. In 25% (n = 6) of women, adenoma size decreased by more than 50%, in 33%(n = 8), there was no change in adenoma size, and in 42% (n = 10), decrease in adenoma size was less than 50% after pregnancy and/or lactation. The median duration of cabergoline treatment before pregnancy among patients who achieved remission was 60 months against 24 months in those who did not achieve remission. The median pre-pregnancy adenoma size was 5.5 mm in women with remission against 8 mm in women who did not achieve remission.

Conclusion:

Pregnancy-induced remission of hyperprolactinemia was seen in 41.6% prolactinomas. Longer duration of dopamine agonist treatment before pregnancy, small pre-pregnancy adenoma size, and lower baseline prolactin were associated with high likelihood of remission, though not statistically significant.
Effect of mHealth Interventions on Glycemic Control and HbA1c Improvement among Type II Diabetes Patients in Asian Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Verma Divya , Bahurupi Yogesh , Kant Ravi , Singh Mahendra , Aggarwal Pradeep , Saxena Vartika
Published: February 2022

Introduction:

Due to the high prevalence of diabetes mellitus, it is pertinent to educate and inform diabetes patients about their self-management. It can be done effectively using innovative methods like mobile health (mHealth), which includes mobile applications, phone calls, and text messages. Thus, this meta-analysis was conducted to summarize the effectiveness of mHealth interventions for the management of diabetes compared with usual care in the Asian population.

Materials and Methods:

Searches were performed in electronic databases, namely PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Library, in August and September 2020. Search terms used were “Diabetes Mellitus,” “mHealth,” “glycemic control”, “HbA1c levels,” and “Blood glucose levels.” The primary outcome was glycated hemoglobin and blood glucose levels. Trials were pooled, and heterogeneity was quantified using the I2 statistic.

Results:

The search yielded 3980 abstracts, of which 18 trials met the inclusion criteria. Lowering of Hba1c levels was reported in the majority of trials, which aided in Glycemic control. For post prandial blood glucose (PPBG) levels, a statistically significant reduction of value –20.13 (95%CI –35.16 to –5.10, P = 0.009, I2 = 59%) was seen in the mean in the intervention group, whereas for HbA1c levels the mean reduction in the intervention group was –0.44 (95%CI, –0.79 to 0.10, P = 0.01, I2 = 87%). Although these interventions proved beneficial for these outcomes, there was a difference in the amount of effects caused by different mHealth interventions.

Conclusion:

This study acknowledged the effects of different mHealth interventions as per their accessibility and availability in recent years. There is a need to include more studies in future reviews to generate a larger body of evidence for the reported outcomes. The researchers should give the utmost priority to the transparency while reporting the interventions for effective interpretation of the retrieved data.
Comparing the effectiveness of different postoperative counseling methods for post-keratoplasty patients
Authors: Anitha Venugopal , Nair Shobita , Ravindran Meenakshi , Uduman Mohammed Sithiq
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

To compare various counseling methods for improving patient education, compliance, and administration of eye drops prescribed for post-optical keratoplasty patients and assess the most efficient counseling method.

Methods:

A prospective, questionnaire-based pilot study was conducted among 60 post-optical keratoplasty patients who were randomly assigned into three groups for postoperative eye drop counseling, namely group 1 (video counseling), group 2 (chart counseling), and group 3 (verbal counseling at Cornea department). The questionnaire was answered by the patients/attendants applying the eye drops on the first 3 consecutive visits. McNemar–Bowker test was used to compare responses in each group and the Kruskal–Wallis test was used to compare responses among the three groups. The Institutional Ethics Committee of Aravind Eye Hospital, Tirunelveli (Registration number ECR 816/Inst/Tn/2016) approved this study.

Results:

Results demonstrated improvement in various categories assessed regarding drop administration in all three groups, which assessed patients’ knowledge, attitude, and hygiene. Although all three groups showed improvements during subsequent follow-up visits, the video-counseling method was found to be an effective means of communication.

Conclusion:

Our study emphasizes that the nonverbal and noncontact means of communication by video demonstration would be an effective way of counseling. It can be considered in the present scenario of the pandemic as well.
Utilization rate of corneal tissue obtained from donors over 75 years of age in Western India for keratoplasty
Authors: Shah Rakesh , Hirwe Supriya , Ashar Jatin , Sengupta Sabyasachi
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

To examine the utilization patterns of cornea procured from diseased individuals ≥75 years of age at an eye bank in western India.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, data from 1,217 eyes of 653 donors with age ≥75 years were reviewed from October 2008 to December 2019. Donor age, lens status, endothelial cell count (ECD), utilization of the tissue for transplantation or non-clinical purposes (e.g., research, training/discarded), and causes of non-utilization were noted.

Results:

The mean age of the donors was 80.9 ± 4.6 years and the tissue utilization rate was 36.5% (445 out of 1,217 eyes). The eyes used for keratoplasty procedures had a lower donor age (79.6 ± 5.7 vs. 81.5 ± 5.1; P < 0.001), a higher endothelial cell count (2493 ± 531 vs. 2034 ± 581; P < 0.001), and were more often phakic (61% vs. 36.6%) compared to the unused group. A multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that the likelihood of tissue utilization for keratoplasty was 13% higher with every 100-cell increment in donor ECD (odds ratio [OR] = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.10–1.16, P < 0.001) and 33% lower with having a pseudophakic status in the donor eye (OR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.52–0.87, P = 0.03). Age was not a significant determinant of tissue utilization when used in the same multivariable model.

Conclusion:

More than one-third of the eyes (36.5%) can be utilized even when the donors are above 75 years of age. Eyes that were more likely to be utilized for keratoplasty were phakic and had a significantly higher ECD; age was not a determinant in tissue utilization.
Landmark trials in ophthalmology: The age-related eye diseases studies
Authors: Kumar Annapurna
Published: February 2022

Background:

There are many landmark clinical trials in ophthalmology, the context of which provide a more relevant understanding of their results. The Age-related Eye Diseases (AREDS) studies were conducted in a large population to understand the effect of nutritional supplements on the progress of age-related macular degeneration.

Purpose:

This instructional video is being presented to familiarize the postgraduate residents as well as interested researchers of the details of the landmark AREDS studies.

Synopsis:

The video describes the enrollment of participants, their demographics, the protocols of the studies, and the key results.

Highlights:

The AREDS formulations, the specific effects of key components of the formulations, and results of the trials that guide present day treatment guidelines are discussed. Video link: https://youtu.be/SPsikgx8SCI
Localized surgical debridement for the management of orbital mucormycosis
Authors: Murthy Ramesh , Gote Yogita S , Bagchi Aadhyaa
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

To describe the role of localized debridement and instillation of amphotericin B for the management of orbital mucormycosis post COVID-19 infection with a view to avoid exenteration.

Methods:

The records of all patients with orbital mucormycosis post COVID-19 infection in the last 6 months from December 2020 to June 2021 were evaluated, and ten patients were identified who were successfully managed with localized debridement, that is, removing the fungal tissue and necrotic material and amphotericin B gel instillation locally. MRI scan was used to identify the area of fungal infiltration and presence of necrotic material. Early surgery in the form of transconjunctival orbitotomy was performed for disease in the infraorbital fissure area, and superior transcutaneous lid crease approach was employed for disease in the superomedial orbit or medial orbit. Most patients had lid edema, ptosis, and proptosis; this resolved with the medication. Systemic antifungals were given and the follow-up ranged from 1 to 5 months.

Results:

The ptosis, proptosis, and lid edema subsided in all, except in one patient who had residual ptosis and in one who had residual ophthalmoplegia. Vision deficit did not occur in any patient. All patients were successfully discharged on oral antifungal medication.

Conclusion:

Localized clearance of the fungal tissue and the necrotic material is a good option to avoid exenteration in cases of orbital mucormycosis, avoiding disfigurement and mental trauma to the patient.
Comparing IOLM700 TK, Berdahl and Hardten astigmatism fix calculator and Barrett Rx formula in managing residual astigmatism due to toric intraocular lens misalignment
Authors: Sharma Ajay C , Khetan Avani
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

To compare the accuracy in astigmatism reduction by using IOLM 700 steep total keratometry (TK) axis, Berdahl and Hardten astigmatism fix, and Barrett Rx formula following misaligned toric intraocular lens (IOL).

Methods:

Ten patients with residual refractive astigmatism due to misalignment following toric IOL implantation were included in this retrospective study. They were analyzed at days 4, 7/8, and 10/11 following primary cataract surgery on the platform of Berdahl and Hardten astigmatism fix, Barrett Rx formula, and IOLM 700 to determine the optimum axis of repositioning, and underwent IOL realignment on the steep TK axis of IOLM 700 assisted by the Callisto eye. The final outcome parameters were subjective refraction and orientation of toric IOL assessed 22 ± 1 days following repositioning surgery. These parameters were fed in the Barrett Rx formula and its vector analysis graph was utilized to determine the predicted ideal axis with the least residual astigmatism and the estimated residual astigmatism if the toric IOL was realigned according to the axis suggested by Berdahl and Hardten astigmatism fix and Barrett Rx formula.

Results:

Realigning the toric IOL on IOLM 700 steep TK axis along with the Callisto eye reduces the residual refractive astigmatism significantly (P = 0.003) from 2.00 ± 0.78 D to 0.18 ± 0.12 D (90.5 ± 7.6%) in comparison to the estimated 0.57 ± 0.31 D (68.4 ± 21.9%) by Berdahl and Hardten astigmatism fix and 0.61 ± 0.33 D (66.4 ± 23.5%) by Barrett Rx formula.

Conclusion:

Realigning the misaligned toric IOL on the IOLM 700 steep TK axis gives a better reduction in the residual refractive astigmatism in comparison to Berdahl and Hardten astigmatism fix and Barrett Rx formula.
Comparison of anterior chamber angle parameters and iris structure of juvenile open-angle glaucoma and pigmentary glaucoma
Authors: Pasaoglu Isil , Basarir Berna
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

To compare the quantitative measurements of the anterior chamber angle (ACA) and iris parameters in patients with juvenile open-angle glaucoma (JOAG), pigmentary glaucoma (PG), and healthy controls using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT).

Methods:

This was a retrospective, cross-sectional study of 25 eyes with JOAG, 25 eyes with PG, and 25 control eyes. Anterior chamber depth, angle-opening distance 500 and 750, trabecular–iris space 500 and 750, scleral spur angle, iris thickness (IT, measured at the thickest part), and iris bowing were obtained using AS-OCT (Visante” OCT 3.0 Model 1000, Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc).

Results:

The quantitative ACA parameters were found to be significantly higher in JOAG and PG patients compared to healthy controls (P < 0.001); there was no significant difference between the eyes with JOAG and PG (P > 0.05). In eyes with JOAG and PG, there was significantly backward bowing of the iris in temporal and nasal angles compared to control subjects (P < 0.001). Median iris bowing was not significantly different between the patients with JOAG and PG (P > 0.05). The temporal and nasal angle iris thickness were significantly thinner in eyes with JOAG than the eyes with PG (P < 0.001) and age-matched control subjects (P < 0.001). The median IT did not differ between the patients with PG and control subjects (P > 0.05). In patients with JOAG, the intraocular pressure (IOP) was inversely correlated with IT (r = -0.43, P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

AS-OCT provided quantitative data on the ACA and iris parameters in JOAG and PG. The evaluation of the ACA and iris structures using AS-OCT revealed higher ACA measurements and posterior bowing of the iris in patients with JOAG and PG. Furthermore, the patients with JOAG were found to have thinner IT than the ones with PG and healthy controls.
Clinico-epidemiologic characteristics of optic neuritis in a tertiary eye centre in Eastern India based on the status of serum aquaporin-4 antibody
Authors: Ambasta Anita , Kusumesh Rakhi , Sharma Janardan , Sinha Bibhuti Prassan , Shree Srishti , Gupta Abhishek , Priyadarshi Rajeev N
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

To elucidate the clinico-epidemiologic characteristics of optic neuritis based on the status of serum aquaporin-4 antibody (AQP4-Ab) in patients with optic neuritis (ON).

Methods:

Medical records of 106 patients with ON and a follow-up of 3 years were reviewed. For each patient, the following data were extracted: medical history, findings of the ocular examination, brain, orbital or spinal MRI, and serological tests for AQP4. The ON was classified as typical or atypical based on disc examination and improvement in vision after intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP). The clinical findings (typical or atypical), disease course, and outcomes were analyzed according to the serostatus of the ON.

Results:

10 patients ((9.4%) were seropositive for AQP4-Ab; all had atypical ON. 96 patients (91%) were seronegative for AQP4-Ab: 36 atypical ON and 60 typical ON. Profound visual impairment at presentation was seen in all patients. However, at the end of the study period, seropositive and seronegative atypical ON had poor visual outcomes as compared to seronegative typical ON (P = 0.002). Five seropositive and four seronegative patients with atypical ON developed transverse myelitis. Bilateral disease with relapse was more in seropositive patients (80%); however, seronegative with atypical ON also had bilateral presentation and relapse in 42% and 41%, respectively.

Conclusion:

AQP4-Ab seropositive patients mostly present with atypical features such as bilateral recurrent ON, poor visual outcome, and increased incidence of transverse myelitis. However, atypical clinical features can also be seen in seronegative ON with a poor visual outcome and a recalcitrant course.
Nomogram of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness in myopic eyes of north Indian population
Authors: Yasir Ziaul H , Mittal Jimmy , Singh Alok K
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

To evaluate peripapillary-RNFL thickness in myopia by Cirrus OCT among north Indian population by spherical equivalent (SE), age, gender, and axial length (AL).

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study held during 2019–2020. Patients aged 18–60 years underwent ophthalmic examination including retinoscopy, AL, and OCT RNFL thickness. Persons with previous ocular surgery or ocular ailment other than refractive error were excluded. The peripapillary-RNFL thickness was noted and compared by demographic determinants.

Results:

We examined 300 eyes of 300 persons (mean age: 30.75 ± 8.57 years; 144 males/156 females). Among them, 224 were myopes and 76 were emmetropes (EM). The mean SE was − 3.3 ± 0.4D (range: −11.0D to + 0.37D). The mean AL was 24.61 ± 1.92 mm (22.1–29.5). Overall temporal, nasal, superior, inferior, and mean peripapillary-RNFL thickness was 66.31 ± 7.58, 78.57 ± 16.00, 120.63 ± 11.69, 116.60 ± 15.80, and 95.50 ± 10.84 mm, respectively. Temporal, nasal, superior, inferior, and mean peripapillary-RNFL thickness was 73.97 ± 8.36, 94.84 ± 7.63, 127.96 ± 8.96, 136.89 ± 6.53, and 108.34 ± 6.28 mm, respectively, in EM eyes as compared to 63.71 ± 6.18, 73.05 ± 14.24, 118.21 ± 11.53, 109.71 ± 11.50, and 91.14 ± 8.31 mm, respectively, in myopic eyes (P < 0.001). Association of peripapillary-RNFL thickness with myopia and its different grades was P < 0.001. Association of mean peripapillary-RNFL thickness with age was P > 0.005 and gender was P = 0.168. Correlation between SE and RNFL thickness was positive and significant. Correlation between AL and RNFL thickness was negative but statistically significant. Association of AL with SE was P < 0.001.

Conclusion:

We provide normative peripapillary-RNFL thickness in the north Indian population in order to help in screening for myopia with comorbidity such as glaucoma based on RNFL thickness.
All India Ophthalmological Society (AIOS) Task Force guidelines to prevent intraocular infections and cluster outbreaks after cataract surgery
Authors: Verma Lalit , Agarwal Aniruddha , Dave Vivek Pravin , Honavar Santosh G ,   members of the Task Force, Majji Ajit Babu , Lall Ashish , Mahobia Ashish , Grover Ashok Kumar , Gupta Avnindra , Shroff Cyrus , Talwar Dinesh , Ravindra M S , Goyal Mallika , Sharma Namrata , Kamdar Paritosh A , Bhende Pramod , Samant Preetam , Rishi Pukhraj , Ravindran R D , Narayanan Raja , Sinha Rajesh , Pappuru Rajiv Reddy , Kumar S Sasi , V R Saravanan , Lahane Tatyarao P , Gajiwala Uday , Pradeep Venkatesh
Published: February 2022

Infectious endophthalmitis is a serious and vision-threatening complication of commonly performed intraocular surgeries such as cataract surgery. The occurrence of endophthalmitis can result in severe damage to the uveal and other ocular tissues even among patients undergoing an uncomplicated surgical procedure. If the infections result from common factors such as surgical supplies, operative or operation theater-related risks, there can be a cluster outbreak of toxic anterior segment syndrome (TASS) or infectious endophthalmitis, leading to several patients having an undesirable outcome. Since prevention of intraocular infections is of paramount importance to ophthalmic surgeons, the All India Ophthalmological Society (AIOS) has taken the lead in the formation of a National Task Force to help ophthalmic surgeons apply certain universal precautions in their clinical practice. The Task Force has prepared a handy checklist and evidence-based guidelines to minimize the risk of infectious endophthalmitis following cataract surgery.
Ultrasound Visualization of Torsional Anatomic Changes in the Neck
Authors: Tan Filemon C. , Strakowski Jeffrey A. , Chiou-Tan Faye Y.
Published: February 2022

Introduction:

The objective of this paper is to demonstrate changes in the sonographic appearance of muscles in region of the neck with cervical movement from neutral anatomic position to right rotational torsion.

Methods:

Sonographic images were obtained in a 56-year-old healthy female. Muscles selected are common targets for botulinum toxin A injection in treatment for cervical dystonia. Sonographic images were obtained with the transducer placed over the muscle of interest with the neck in both anatomic-neutral and right-rotated positions. Cine loop video was also recorded at each site to track muscles throughout torsion.

Results:

The results show that in rotational torsion, (1) the brachial plexus becomes difficult to view due to anisotropy when examining the scalenes. The relationship between the anterior and middle scalenes and brachial plexus becomes less distinct with cervical rotation beyond neutral position. (2) The positional relationship of the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) and the ipsilateral splenius capitus is altered. (3) The jugular vein changes from collapsed to distended in the contralateral SCM view. (4) The position of the trapezius is not altered significantly.

Conclusion:

The sonographic appearance of soft tissue structures about the neck differs significantly with cervical movement from an anatomic neutral position to a position of right torsion. Knowledge of the dynamic positional changes of the muscles in this region in relation to each other, as well as the neurovascular structures, with cervical movement and torsion can potentially improve diagnostic assessment as well as accuracy of interventional procedures.
Effectiveness of erector spinae plane block in patients with percutaneous nephrolithotomy
Authors: Pehlıvan SS , Gergın OO , Baydıllı N , Ulgey A , Erkan I , Bayram A
Published: February 2022

Background:

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy operation is a minimally invasive surgical procedure for the treatment of kidney stones.

Aim:

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block (ESPB) on analgesic consumption in patients who underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy.

Subjects and Methods:

The data of 60 cases who underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy operation between 01.01.2020 January and 12.01.2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Hemodynamic parameters, verbal analogue scale adjectives, total morphine consumption, additional analgesic and antiemetic need, duration of hospitalization, and patient satisfaction score were compared in patients who had ESPB and did not have block.

Results:

Demographic data and hemodynamic parameters were similar between the two groups. Verbal rating scale values were lower for Group I at 2, 6, 12, and 24 h (P < 0.05). Patient satisfaction score was significantly higher in Group I over 24 h (P = 0.039). Total morphine consumption at postoperative 2nd, 6th, and 24th h was less than that of Group II (P < 0.05). Analgesia consumption in postoperative 24 h of group I was less than that of Group II (P = 0.001). The amount of fentanyl given intraoperatively was significantly higher in Group II (P = 0.001). Nausea and vomiting rates were significantly lower for Group I (P = 0.002).

Conclusion:

Ultrasound-guided ESPB reduced postoperative morphine consumption and the rate of nausea and vomiting.
Distribution of cesarean delivery by Robson classification and predictors of postspinal anesthesia hypotension in Windhoek referral hospitals
Authors: Rukewe A , Orlam I , Akande A , Fatiregun AA
Published: February 2022

Background:

There are concerns that high cesarean section (CS) rates are driven by nonmedical indications and unmitigated maternal hypotension following spinal anesthesia (SA) has materno fetal effects.

Aims:

Our objective was to investigate CS rates using Robson classification, identify patient groups for focused intervention as well as assess the incidence and predictors of maternal hypotension following SA for cesarean delivery.

Subjects and Methods:

A cross sectional design was employed over 3 months (February–April, 2019). Data about total deliveries (vaginal and operative) were obtained from the hospital medical records. For parturients who had CS, variables which covered maternal characteristics, conduct of anesthesia, and the index pregnancy according to Robson classification system were entered into a proforma designed for the study.

Results:

The total deliveries were 3031, of which 556 were CSs, giving a CS rate of 18.3%. Twenty one nonconsenting parturients were excluded, so 535 responded. Robson groups 5, 10, and 1 combined contributed 75% [401/535] to the overall CS. Two or more previous CS, 29.7% [159/535], was the main indication for performing CS, followed by maternal request 12.9% [69/535]. The incidence of maternal hypotension was 62.6% (293/468); the independent predictors were elective CS and having comorbidities.

Conclusion:

We found a low CS rate and Robson groups 5, 10, and 1 were the major contributors – previous CS (≥2) and maternal request were the predominant indications for performing CS. The independent predictors of SA induced hypotension were presence of comorbidities and elective CS
Psychological distress and health-related quality of life among stable patients with bronchiectasis
Authors: Umoh VA , Alasia DD , Akpan EE , Jumbo HE , Ekwere ME , Umoh IO , Udo AI , Peters EJ
Published: February 2022

Background:

Bronchiectasis is characterized by chronic symptoms and impaired physical activity. Anxiety and depression usually complicate chronic illness. Thus, underdiagnosis of psychological distress in bronchiectasis may lead to increased morbidity and mortality.

Aims:

The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of physical illness on psychological distress and its association with health-related quality of life (HRQOL).

Subjects and Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study of adults with bronchiectasis. Patients completed a study questionnaire, the hospital anxiety and depression scale and the World Health Organization quality of life brief (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire. Physical examination was conducted on all participants.

Results:

103 patients were recruited for this study: 54 males (52.4%) and 49 females (47.6%). The average age of the patients was 49.12 ± 14.37 years. The most common predisposing factor for bronchiectasis amongst the patients was previous pulmonary tuberculosis (51 patients, 49.5%). Chronic productive cough, which was reported by 98 of the subjects (95.15%), was the most common symptom. 89 subjects (86.41%) reported episodes of shortness of breath, 82 (79.61%) reported at least one episode of exacerbation, while 52 subjects (50.49%) were hospitalized for bronchiectasis in the previous 12 months. 23 subjects (22.3%) had anxiety and 32 (31.1%) had depression. Anxiety and depression were significantly associated with indicators of severe disease. The subjects recorded low HRQOL scores across all domains. Psychological distress displayed a significant negative association with all the quality-of-life domains except between anxiety and social interaction.

Conclusion:

Symptoms of depression and anxiety are common among patients with bronchiectasis and these symptoms have a negative impact on HRQOL.
Comparison of oxidative stress status and quality of life in participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus according to treatment modality
Authors: Kuet O , Kilit TP , Kocak E
Published: February 2022

Background:

Oxidative stress triggered by hyperglycemia in diabetic patients leads to macrovascular and microvascular complications, resulting in deterioration in the quality of life.

Aims:

This study aimed to compare the oxidative stress status and quality of life in participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus according to treatment modality.

Patients and Methods:

Ninety type 2 diabetes mellitus participants aged between 40 and 60 years were included in the study. Forty-five participants were receiving oral antidiabetic drugs and 45 participants were receiving insulin therapy. Total antioxidant status, total oxidant status, and paraoxonase-1 were measured and oxidative stress indices were calculated. The SF-36 quality of life questionnaire was applied to the participants.

Results:

The total oxidant status and oxidative stress indices values were higher in the insulin-treated group than in the group treated with oral antidiabetic drugs. Paraoxonase-1 activities of the oral antidiabetic drugs-treated group were statistically significantly higher than the insulin-treated group. In the oral antidiabetic drugs-treated group, the physical function, social function, and pain subscale scores were higher than that of the insulin-treated group. In all participants, a negative correlation between total antioxidant status and fasting blood glucose and hemoglobin A1c, a positive correlation between total oxidant status and hemoglobin A1c and triglyceride, and a positive correlation was found between oxidative stress indices and fasting blood glucose and hemoglobin A1c.

Conclusions:

It was found that oxidative stress parameters were higher and quality of life was worse in the insulin-treated participants than participants treated with oral antidiabetic drugs. These results may be closely related to more severe chronic complications in insulin-dependent diabetes.
Multivariate Orthogonal Laurent Polynomials and Integrable Systems
Authors: Ariznabarreta Gerardo , Mañas Manuel
Published: February 2022

An ordering for Laurent polynomials in the algebraic torus

(\mathbb{C}^*)^D

, inspired by the Cantero–Moral–Vel´azquez approach to orthogonal Laurent polynomials in the unit circle, leads to the construction of a moment matrix for a given Borel measure in the unit torus

\mathbb{T}^D

. The Gauss–Borel factorization of this moment matrix allows for the construction of multivariate biorthogonal Laurent polynomials in the unit torus, which can be expressed as last quasi-determinants of bordered truncations of the moment matrix. The associated second-kind functions are expressed in terms of the Fourier series of the given measure. Persymmetries and partial persymmetries of the moment matrix are studied and Cauchy integral representations of the second-kind functions are found, as well as Plemelj-type formulae. Spectral matrices give string equations for the moment matrix, which model the three-term relations as well as the Christoffel–Darboux formulae.

Christoffel-type perturbations of the measure given by the multiplication by Laurent polynomials are studied. Sample matrices on poised sets of nodes, which belong to the algebraic hypersurface of the perturbing Laurent polynomial, are used to find a Christoffel formula that expresses the perturbed orthogonal Laurent polynomials in terms of a last quasi-determinant of a bordered sample matrix constructed in terms of the original orthogonal Laurent polynomials. Poised sets exist only for prepared Laurent polynomials, which are analyzed from the perspective of Newton polytopes and tropical geometry. Then, an algebraic geometrical characterization of prepared Laurent polynomial perturbation and poised sets is given; full-column-rankness of the corresponding multivariate Laurent–Vandermonde matrices and a product of different prime prepared Laurent polynomials leads to such sets. Some examples are constructed in terms of perturbations of the Lebesgue–Haar measure.

Discrete and continuous deformations of the measure lead to a Toda-type integrable hierarchy, being the corresponding flows described through Lax and Zakharov–Shabat equations; bilinear equations and vertex operators are found. Varying size matrix nonlinear partial difference and differential equations of two-dimensional Toda lattice type are shown to be solved by matrix coefficients of the multivariate orthogonal polynomials. The discrete flows are connected with a Gauss–Borel factorization of the Jacobi-type matrices and its quasi-determinants allow for expressions for the multivariate orthogonal polynomials in terms of shifted quasi-tau matrices, which generalize those that relate the Baker functions with ratios of Miwa shifted

\tau

-functions in the one-dimensional scenario. It is shown that the discrete and continuous flows are deeply connected and determine nonlinear partial difference-differential equations that involve only one site in the integrable lattice behaving as a Kadomtsev–Petviashvili-type system.