bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microimpulse laser trabeculoplasty as a treatment method for primary open-angle glaucoma
Authors:   Republican Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center for Eye Microsurgery, «SIHAT KO'Z» LTD Joint Venture, Umarova N.O. , Jamalova S.A. ,   Republican Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center for Eye Microsurgery, «SIHAT KO'Z» LTD Joint Venture
Published: June 2023

Purpose. Analysis of the results of treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma by the method of microimpulse laser trabeculoplasty with a power of 1000 mW and different operating cycles. Material and methods. 33 patients (36 eyes) who underwent microimpulse laser trabeculoplasty were included in the study: in the 1st month, MLT with a power of 1000 mW and a duty cycle of 15% was performed in 19 patients (21 eyes), in the 2nd month MLT s rabochim cyclom 10% 14 patients (15 glasses). Criterion of inclusion of development of patients with primary open glaucoma and pigmented angular anterior camera. Observation and measurement of VGD is carried out an hour after the laser procedure, after 10 days, and after 1; 3, 6 months. Results. In the MLT group with 15% duty cycle, at 6-month follow-up, we noted a decrease in IOP by more than 20% of baseline or more than 3 mmHg, in 78% of cases, however, in the MLT group with a 10% duty cycle, this figure was only 33%. Also, in the MLT group with 15% workers, there was a decrease in the number of antihypertensive drugs used by 32%, while in the MLT group with a 10% work cycle, this figure was 9%. Conclusions. Treatment with micropulse laser trabeculoplasty for primary open-angle glaucoma is a new method that affects pigmented cells without thermal damage. However, to achieve a hypotensive effect, the laser power should be 1000 mW, and the duty cycle is 15%, since with a duty cycle of 10%, no hypotensive effect is observed in the long-term observation period. Keywords: glaucoma, laser trabeculoplasty, pigmented anterior chamber angle
Morphometric changes in the parameters of the optic nerve head during intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF drug
Authors:   Research Institute of Eye Diseases, Moscow, Russian Federation, Andreeva Y.S. , Shelankova A.V. ,   Research Institute of Eye Diseases, Moscow, Russian Federation, Budzinskaya M.V. ,   Research Institute of Eye Diseases, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: June 2023

Purpose. To study the dynamics changes in the internal and deep structures of the optic nerve head (ОNН) against the background of three monthly injections of an anti-VEGF drug. Material and Methods. The study included 20 patients (20 eyes) with newly diagnosed exudative form of age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured with an ICare Pro before intravitreal injection (IVI), 1 minute after IVI, 30 minutes, 60 minutes during the first, second, and third injections. All patients underwent optical coherence tomography of the optic disc using a Heidelberg Spectralis OCT scanner in the Enhanced Depth Imagine mode. The study was carried out before IVI anti-VEGF drug, 1 month after the first injection, a month after 3 injections. Results. Statistically significant increase in IOP was found 1 min after IVI in dynamics (p < 0.001). Against the background of three loading IVI of the anti-VEGF drug, there was a tendency to increase the size of the excavation width, excavation depth, distance to the cribriform plate, however, no statistically significant changes were detected. Thus, 4 months after the start of antiangiogenic therapy after three IVI anti-VEGF drugs, increasing IOP immediately after IVI, which is transient, did not lead to morphological changes in the ONH. Conclusions. Аccording to optical coherence tomography, in patients with nAMD against the background of three loading IVIs of the antiVEGF drug, no statistically significant changes in the parameters of the internal and deep structures of the ONH were observed. Keywords: intraocular pressure, anti-VEGF therapy, optic nerve head
Clinical cases of lesions of the cornea by the disease Thygeson
Authors:   Regional Clinical Hospital № 2, Chelyabinsk, Bovkunenko R.F.
Published: June 2023

In 1950, Thygeson P. first described a series of cases of superficial point keratitis, which is a chronic, recurrent disease and is characterized by small, oval sub-and intraepithelial whitish-gray corneal opacities. The disease is usually bilateral, but can be asymmetric. Opacities tend to be centrally located, which causes a decrease in visual acuity. The disease affects both sexes, but a higher incidence was found in women. Despite multiple studies, the etiology of the disease has not been determined. An autoimmune mechanism of the disease has been suggested. Keywords: Tigason's disease, Tigason's keratitis
Prevention of progression of myopia of varying degrees in pregnant women with a normal pregnancy
Authors:   Kyrgyz state medical academy named after of I.K. Akhunbaev, department of ophthalmology, Maralbaeva A.A. ,   Ophthalmological laser center, Kyrgyzstan (Bishkek), Saidahmetova C.T. ,   Kyrgyz state medical academy named after of I.K. Akhunbaev, department of ophthalmology,   Ophthalmological laser center, Kyrgyzstan (Bishkek)
Published: June 2023

Purpose. The aim of the study was to identify the causes of the progression of myopia in the postpartum period in pregnant women with myopia (of varying degrees) with a normal pregnancy without gestosis, without pronounced dystrophic changes in the retina, for which morphometric indicators of the membranes of the eye, the effect on the reduction of the relative accommodation reserve (ZOA) of 2.5% irifrin in the prenatal period, as well as the effect of drugs with active the substance brinzolamide (Azopt, brinex) for increased intraocular pressure (IOP) during the difficult period of labor. During instillations, tear points were blocked to exclude systemic effects of drugs. Materials and methods. All patients underwent ophthalmological examination.78 pregnant women aged 18–35 years (average age 27.4 ± 1) were under observation, of which groups were formed: group 1 – 34 pregnant women with myopia (main), where 2.5% irifrin instillations were prescribed in the third trimester, 1 drop per night for 2 weeks, ZOA was examined before and after instillations. Group 2 – 20 patients of pregnant women with myopia of varying degrees. Group 3 – 12 patients of pregnant women with emmetropia, group 4 – 12 pregnant women with hypermetropia. Results. It was revealed in the prenatal period a decrease in ZOA in all groups, low visual acuity without correction in groups 1 and 2. In group 1 (after instillations), a 2-fold increase in ZOA and an increase in visual acuity without correction were noted before childbirth. In all groups, there was an increase in the volume of the cornea and anterior chamber, more pronounced in groups 1 and 2. The increase in IOP during the period of labor in all groups did not significantly affect group 1, 3 and 4, where there was a gradual significant moderate decrease in the volume of the anterior chamber and cornea, stabilization of the PZO. In the 2nd group, in the postpartum period, there was a tendency to increase PZO, for a long time (according to the terms of observation), a larger volume of the anterior chamber and the thickness of the cornea were retained. Conclusions. The proposed method of treatment helps to stabilize myopia in women in labor, prevents stretching and progression of myopia in the postpartum period. Keywords: pregnancy, myopia, accommodation
Postoperative inflammatory reaction after endoscopic laser cyclodestruction in various modes (experimental study)
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Military Medical Academy named after A.I. S.M. Kirov, St. Petersburg, Skvortsov V.Y. , Tulin D.V. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Military Medical Academy named after A.I. S.M. Kirov, St. Petersburg, Mirgorodskaya O.E. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Military Medical Academy named after A.I. S.M. Kirov, St. Petersburg
Published: June 2023

The study and objectification of the degree of intensity of the postoperative inflammatory response, in our opinion, is of great importance after endoscopic laser cyclodestruction (ELCD), which is the most often performed in combination with cataract surgery, when it is usually about eyes with prospects for high visual functions. Features of morphological changes and to conduct an objective analysis of the severity of the postoperative inflammatory response after ELCD, accompanied by the POP-effect and without it, was the goal of the study. The experiment carried out on rabbits in two modes (on different eyes of each animal). In the first variant, surgical intervention performed to visual response obtained in the form of coagulation of processes with a power in the diapason from 0.3 to 0.5 W. In the second variant, until the visual realization of the biological vaporization effect in the diapason from 0.9 to 1.2 W. OCT of the anterior segment with prevailing coverage of the anterior chamber in 1, 7 and 14 days. The resulting frames standardized in size. They analyzed in the programm ImageJ. Series of semithin sections were made on an Ultracut E ultramicrotome (Reicher, Austria); photos were taken on an Axio A1 light microscope (Zaiss, Germany) with an AxioCam MRc5 camera (Zaiss, Germany). During the comparison of the groups, no statistically significant differences were found between them on the corresponding days of observation (p = 0.24). Light microscopy shows extensive damage to the epithelium of the processes with the migration of pigment granules outside the tissue, however the structure of the stroma remains ordered with the preservation of vascularization. Keywords: endoscopic laser cyclodestruction, postoperative inflammation, glaucoma
The influence of antiglaucoma drugs and its components on cultured human corneal endothelial cells
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Institution of Science «M.M. Krasnov Research Institute of Eye Diseases», Moscow, Russia, Fisenko N.V. , Subbot A.M. ,   Federal State Budgetary Institution of Science «M.M. Krasnov Research Institute of Eye Diseases», Moscow, Russia, Osipyan G.A. ,   Federal State Budgetary Institution of Science «M.M. Krasnov Research Institute of Eye Diseases», Moscow, Russia
Published: June 2023

Purpose. Evaluation of cytotoxicity of antiglaucoma drugs and preservative – benzalkonium chloride (BAK) in human corneal endothelial cells (CECs) in vitro. Material and methods. High-CEC-density colonies were used as a monolayer (intact endothelium in vivo) and single CECs were regarded as low-HCEC-density layer in bullous keratopathy. Dorzolamide, brimonidine, timolol (preserved and BAK-free) were diluted with medium up to 1/10000, 1/1000, 1/100. BAK was diluted according to its concentration in these solutions. Following exposure to test solutions for 24 hours, morphological features of both CEC-models were identified with phase-contrast microscope, CECs survival was measured using MTS assay. Results. Dorzolamide and Timolol, preservative-free, 1/1000 and 1/100 dilutions, induced structural changes of single CECs. Timolol, preservative-free, 1/1000 and 1/100 dilutions, caused changes of CEC-monolayer. Dorzolamide, brimonidine and timolol (preservative-free, 1/100 dilutions) have not caused the decline of CEC viability in both models. Dorzolamide, preserved, 1/100 dilution, was toxic to CEC-monolayer. Brimonidine and timolol (preserved, 1/100 dilutions) induced CECs'death in monolayer. Low single CECs viability (29%) was detected after exposure to Dorzolamide, preserved, 1/100 dilution. High cytotoxicity of brimonidine and timolol (both preserved, 1/100 dilutions) to CEC-monolayer was confirmed by MTS-test – 25% and 3%, respectively and to single CECs – 23,4% and 4,2%, respectively. BAK showed similar level of CECs'toxicity as preserved drugs. So, the cytotoxicity of these drugs was induced by BAK as a component. Conclusions. High concentrations of preserved antiglaucoma ophthalmic solutions may disturb CECs. Administration of such drugs is not reasonable in eyes with low corneal endothelial cell density. Keywords: dorzolamide, brimonidine, timolol, benzalkonium chloride, corneal endothelium, cytotoxicity
Transferable prediction of formation energy across lattices of increasing size
Authors: Lupo Pasini Massimiliano , Karabin Mariia , Eisenbach Markus
Published: June 2023

In this study, we show the transferability of graph convolutional neural network (GCNN) predictions of the formation energy of solid solution alloys across atomic structures of increasing sizes, which was utilized in the cost-efficient sampling strategy. The GCNN was trained on a nickel-platinum (NiPt) dataset generated with the Large-scale Atomic/Molecular Massively Parallel Simulator (LAMMPS) using the second nearest-neighbor modified embedded-atom method (2NN MEAM) empirical interatomic potential. The dataset has been obtained by optimizing the geometries of initially randomly generated FCC crystal structures and calculating the formation energy, with configurations spanning the whole compositional range. The GCNN was first trained on a lattice of 256 atoms, which accounts well for the short-range interactions. Using this data, we predicted the formation energy for lattices of 864 atoms and 2,048 atoms, which resulted in lower-than-expected accuracy due to the long-range interactions present in these larger lattices. We accounted for the long-range interactions by including a small amount of training data representative for those two larger sizes. Using this additional data, the predictions of the GCNN scaled linearly with the size of the lattice. Therefore, our strategy ensured scalability while reducing significantly the computational cost of training on larger lattice sizes.
The phosphorescent properties of heteroleptic Ir (III) complexes: uncovearing their emissive species
Authors: Kumar Prashant , Pérez-Escribano Manuel , van Raamsdonk Davita M. E. , Escudero Daniel
Published: June 2023

In this contribution we assess the computational machinery to calculate the phosphorescence properties of a large pool of heteroleptic [Ir(C^N)2(N^N)]+ complexes (where N^N is an ancillary ligand and C^N is a cyclometalating ligand) including their phosphorescent rates and their emission spectra. Efficient computational protocols are next proposed. Specifically, different flavors of DFT functionals were benchmarked against DLPNO-CCSD(T) for the phosphorescence energies. Transition density matrix and decomposition analysis of the emitting triplet excited state enables to categorize the studied complexes into different cases, from e.g., predominant triplet ligand-centered (3LC) character to predominant charge-transfer (3CT) character, either of metal-to-ligand charge transfer (3MLCT), ligand-to-ligand charge transfer (3LLCT) or a combination of the two. We have also calculated the vibronically resolved phosphorescent spectra and rates. Ir (III) complexes with predominant 3CT character are characterized by less vibronically-resolved bands as compared to those with predominant 3LC character. Furthermore, some of the complexes are characterized by close-lying triplet excited states, so that the calculation of their phosphorescence properties poses additional challenges. In these scenarios, it is necessary to perform geometry optimizations of higher-lying triplet excited states (i.e., Tn). We demonstrate that in the latter scenarios all the close-lying triplet species must be considered to recover the shape of the experimental emission spectra. The global analysis of computed emission energies, shape of the computed emission spectra, computed rates, etc. enable us to unambiguously pinpoint for the first time the triplet states involved in the emission process and to provide a general classification of Ir (III) complexes with regards to their phosphorescent properties.
On The Difficulty of Validating Molecular Generative Models Realistically: A Case Study on Public and Proprietary Data
Authors: Handa Koichi , Thomas Morgan , Kageyama Michiharu , Iijima Takeshi , Bender Andreas
Published: June 2023

While a multitude of deep generative models have recently emerged there exists no best practice for their practically relevant validation. On the one hand, novel de novo-generated molecules cannot be refuted by retrospective validation (so that this type of validation is biased); but on the other hand prospective validation is expensive and then often biased by the human selection process. In this case study, we frame retrospective validation as the ability to mimic human drug design, by answering the following question: Can a generative model trained on early-stage project compounds generate middle/late-stage compounds de novo? To this end, we used experimental data that contains the elapsed time of a synthetic expansion following hit identification from five public (where the time series was pre-processed to better reflect realistic synthetic expansions) and six in-house project datasets, and used REINVENT as a widely adopted RNN-based generative model. After splitting the dataset and training REINVENT on early-stage compounds, we found that rediscovery of middle/late-stage compounds was much higher in public projects (at 1.60%, 0.64%, and 0.21% of the top 100, 500, and 5,000 scored generated compounds) than in in-house projects (where the values were 0.00%, 0.03%, and 0.04%, respectively). Similarly, average single nearest neighbour similarity between early- and middle/late-stage compounds in public projects was higher between active compounds than inactive compounds; however, for in-house projects the converse was true, which makes rediscovery (if so desired) more difficult. We hence show that the generative model recovers very few middle/late-stage compounds from real-world drug discovery projects, highlighting the fundamental difference between purely algorithmic design and drug discovery as a real-world process. Evaluating de novo compound design approaches appears, based on the current study, difficult or even impossible to do retrospectively.
The Main Trends in the Rotation of the Governor's Corps in the Regions of the Siberian Federal District
Authors:   Voronezh State University, Romanovsky A. A.
Published: June 2023

The purpose of the work is to identify the main trends in the rotation of the governor's corps in the regions of the Siberian Federal District. The research objectives include: 1) to analyze the dynamics of the professional structure of the heads of subjects of the SFD; 2) to identify the degree of their belonging to the region before the election (appointment); 3) to study the features of the age characteristics of previous governors, to determine the length of their stay in power. The structure of the study corresponds to the specified tasks. The author comes to the conclusion that the process of rotation of the governor's corps on the example of the subjects of the SFD demonstrates a number of trends: increased recruitment of executive authorities to the positions of senior officials of the regions, a decrease in the representation of public policy entities engaged in parliamentary activities, a noticeable increase in the representation of the governors-“outsiders”.
Soviet Researchers about Shamanic Initiatory Sickness and “Shamanic Madness”
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Furtsev D. O.
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this article is to review various opinions of Soviet scientists about mental health of shamans. The task of this paper is to analyse a wide range of Soviet sources on shamanism, identify their attitude to “shamanic madness” and possible reasons for its formation, and compare positions of different authors on the subject. The following methods were used: comparative, causal analysis, historicism, and typological methods. In modern Russia, there is a preconceived opinion about the sharply negative attitude to religion in the Soviet era. In the USSR, there was indeed active antireligious propaganda, but it is an exaggeration to say that it represents the entire complex layer of relations between representatives of different faiths and Soviet institutions. Soviet science was based on the aspiration for objective knowledge of the world. This also applied to the primitive beliefs that existed at that time in the Northern and Eastern regions of the country, in particular shamanism. This article deals with the issue of shamanic initiatory sickness and shamanic activities based on communication with spirits. On this issue, there was a lively debate – whether these diseases are the result of psychological abnormalities or have a different origin. The article provides a wide range of sources about shamanism and the personality of the shaman, from the works of exiled revolutionaries to professional researchers done in the 80s. The main theories about the reasons for the shaman's ritual behaviour are briefly presented. The dependence of scientists' representation of the shamans during the development of Soviet state and science is shown.
Raba lesa, tržne količine in projekcije potencialov okroglega lesa listavcev v Sloveniji
Authors: Ščap Špela , Triplat Matevž
Published: June 2023

Forestry and wood processing are strategically important industries for Slovenia and have been strengthening their role in the bioeconomy. The study addresses the use of hardwood timber in Slovenia. For actors involved in the use of hardwood timber, it is important to know the available volume of domestic timber that affects the market. For this reason, the survey presented in this work builds on the methodology for estimating the volumes and potentials of hardwood timber developed in 2014. For future decision-making on the development of the forestry and wood-processing sector, it is also essential to analyse wood flows carried out among the major wood processors of round hardwood timber. The estimated theoretical market potential for lower-quality hardwood in Slovenian forests in 2021 was 2.372 million m³, and the estimated theoretical market potential for logs was 0.777 million m³. The estimated real market potential for lower-quality hardwood in 2022 was 0.741 million m³, and for hardwood logs 0.528 million m³. Projections of hardwood potential show that similar volumes of wood will be on the market in 2025 as in 2022. The consumption of round hardwood in 2021 was 1.433 million m³, of which 0.906 million m³ was processed for energy purposes, and the remaining 0.527 million m³ was used in industry. The survey results confirm the concerns about hardwood wood use in Slovenia and indicate opportunities for the future development of the Slovenian forest and wood sector.
Identifikacija verig vrednosti v slovenskem gozdno-lesnem biogospodarstvu
Authors: Straže Aleš , Gornik Bučar Dominika , Kropivšek Jože
Published: June 2023

The Slovenian forestry and timber industry are primarily about creating value and delivering the desired products to customers or users, multiplying the impact throughout the forest-wood value chain through the functioning of all its links. It is important to understand the performance of the entire value chain from the point of view of the potential of the achievable volumes, the level of technological processing and the marginal quality of the input raw materials and the characteristics of the manufactured products. The aim of this study was to map the individual value chains in the entire domestic forest-wood value chain, to analyse the functioning of the circular economy and the potential for processing hardwood into high-tech materials and high value-added products. We identified five primary value chains (P1...P5), two chains to ensure a circular economy (K6, K7), and three chains of higher processing stages to produce higher value-added products (S8...S10). In hardwood processing, the non-functioning of the primary chain "Veneer" (P2) and the limited functioning of the chain "Lumber" (P1) are of concern, which means that we are not using the potential of the highest value wood raw material. In order to achieve the so-called criterion of green value chains, it is necessary to strengthen the chains that ensure a circular economy (K6 – Residues, K7 – Waste wood), which currently function at a lower level and are phasing out too quickly.
Kvalitativna/strateška analiza izbranih verig vrednosti v slovenskem gozdno-lesnem biogospodarstvu
Authors: Kropivšek Jože , Straže Aleš , Gornik Bučar Dominika
Published: June 2023

Current global strategic directions promote the strengthening of green value chains. This opens up completely new potentials for the Slovenian forest-wood chain, which has faced several challenges in recent decades, including the increase in the share of deciduous trees in Slovenian forests. Therefore, it is necessary to establish or strengthen forest-wood value chains whose basic raw material is hardwood in different qualities. For the functioning of the whole chain it is important that all its links work and that the individual chains strictly follow the concept of marginal quality of the input raw material. The aim of the research was to conduct a qualitative strategic SWOT analysis of selected value chains in the Slovenian forest-wood bioeconomy and to identify and compare the main advantages and disadvantages of each chain, as well as to determine which of the value chains are particularly interesting for the development of the Slovenian forest-wood bioeconomy with a focus on hardwood processing. The results show that there are some weaknesses within the value chains, but there are many strengths, which can be used to effectively exploit opportunities and/or reduce risks, contributing to the successful further development of wood processing and all value chains.
La fotografía en el viaje de arquitectura: Margaret Michaelis y el GATEPAC. Grecia y la URSS
Authors: López Rivera Javier
Published: June 2023

La búsqueda de las esencias de los lugares visitados ha sido una constante en muchos de los arquitectos que emprendieron viajes, bien de placer, bien de estudios. Esta especial atención al lugar, ejemplificada en el famoso viaje de Aalto a España en 1951, no nace en la postguerra ni fue exclusiva de los arquitectos de esa época. A través de las imágenes de algunos viajes del grupo Este del GATEPAC, principalmente tomadas por la reportera Margaret Michaelis y realizados antes de la guerra civil, observaremos que, al menos los “modernos” catalanes, reclamaron una arquitectura integrada en el paisaje y con ello alejada en cierta forma de los postulados del Movimiento Moderno que, como sabemos, entendían el lugar como un mero fondo donde debían recortarse las arquitecturas-objetos. Este articulo pretende analizar el papel desempeñado por la fotografía en los viajes, a través de algunos ejemplos de arquitectos y fotógrafos de la modernidad, que no dudaron en confiar en el poder de las imágenes como portadoras de los valores característicos de aquellos paisajes recorridos y en su facilidad de reproducción infinita como material de trabajo.
Residential Housing in Kharkov (Ukraine), 1920-1935
Authors: Didenko Catherine , Bouryak Alexander , Antonenko Nadiia
Published: June 2023

This paper explores the evolution of residential housing approaches in Kharkov, the first capital of Soviet Ukraine, during the period from early 1920s till mid 1930s. The starting point of urban planning experiments was the implementation of the idea of the Garden City (mid 1920s). The building of the house-commune type (1925) and the emergence of a number of large housing estates, which formed a core of the social infrastructure for the new governmental complex, brought a shift in the former urban approaches. At last, the Socialist City (sotsgorod) as a new form of urban lifestyle was consolidated mainly in the late 1920s. Kharkov was one of the first cases, where it was ex- perimentally tested. The ‘socialist city’ model, continuing its existence in the post-war time, underwent significant morphological changes, which, nonetheless, did not alter its fundamental social functional meaning.
Morphological characteristics of venous angiodysplasia of the face and scalp
Authors: Hyndych O. A. , Kropelnytskyi V. A.
Published: June 2023

Objective.Studying of morphological characteristics of venous angiodysplasia of the face and scalp. Materials and methods. The operation material (soft tissues of the face and scalp) was investigated in 20 patients for studying of morphological characteristics of venous dysplasia. In the histological investigation frame the material was fixed and processed in accordance to conventional method, the tissue slices were colored with hematoxilin and eosin. In 7 observations immuno–histochemical investigation with CD34 antibodies (clone QBEND10) and S100 (polyclonal) was applied. Results. Basing on patho–histological investigations of the operation material in 8 patients, morphological features, characteristic for arterio–venous angiodysplasia, were revealed, what may constitute the recurrence cause in postoperative period. Conclusion.The recurrence prognosis and further surveillance of patients with venous angiodysplasia demands decision of the question concerning the presence of arterio–venous component in clinically and instrumentally confirmed simple venous angiodysplasia, concerning every patient.
Rare cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome after COVID-19 vaccination, Germany, December 2020 to August 2021
Authors: Lehmann Helmar C , Oberle Doris , Keller-Stanislawski Brigitte , Rieck Thorsten , Streit Renz
Published: June 2023

Background

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) has been associated with vaccination against COVID-19.

Aim

We aimed to compare clinical characteristics and analyse excess GBS cases following administration of different COVID-19 and influenza vaccines in Germany versus the expected numbers estimated from pre-pandemic background incidence rates.

Methods

We analysed safety surveillance data reported to the German national competent authority between 27 December 2020 and 31 August 2021. GBS cases were validated according to Brighton Collaboration (BC) criteria. We conducted observed vs expected (OvE) analyses on cases fulfilling BC criteria levels 1 to 4 for all four European Medicines Agency-approved COVID-19 vaccines and for influenza vaccines.

Results

A total of 214 GBS cases after COVID-19 vaccination had been reported, of whom 156 were eligible for further analysis. Standardised morbidity ratio estimates 3–42 days after vaccination were 0.34 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.25–0.44) for Comirnaty, 0.38 (95% CI: 0.15–0.79) for Spikevax, 3.10 (95% CI: 2.44–3.88) for Vaxzevria, 4.16 (95% CI: 2.64–6.24) for COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen and 0.60 (95% CI: 0.35–0.94) for influenza vaccines. Bilateral facial paresis was reported in 19.7% and 26.1% of the 156 GBS cases following vaccination with Vaxzevria and COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen, respectively, and only in 6% of cases exposed to Comirnaty.

Conclusion

Three and four times more GBS cases than expected were reported after vaccination with Vaxzevria and COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen, respectively, therefore GBS might be an adverse event of vector-based vaccines. Bifacial paresis was more common in cases with GBS following vaccination with vector-based than mRNA COVID-19 vaccines.
DEVELOPING ECONOMIC BEHAVIOUR BASED ON UNIVERSAL VALUES IN MAQASHID SYARIAH FOR PEACEFUL WORLD
Authors: Hafidz MS. AM. M.
Published: June 2023

In order to create peaceful world from economic aspect, maqashid syariah should ideally also has implications forâ€”at least moslemâ€”all mankind in their economic behavior, both in consumers and producers position. maqashid syariah is the reason for the existence of rules in Islamic teachings. Attaining maslahah and avoiding disobedience/disadvantageous for all mankind as universal value, should be placed as the point, so all aspect of human life should lead in achieving the desired benefit in maqashid syariah. Hence, Islamic economy also put maqashid syariah as refference, so it will be the first choice for people (not jus for moslem) to solve contemporary economic problems. Moslem scholars are in charge to apply maqashid syariah on their analysis related to economics andeconomy.
Unveiling the Power of ESG: How it Shapes Brand Image and Fuels Purchase Intentions - An Empirical Exploration
Authors: Puriwat Wilert , Tripopsakul Suchart
Published: June 2023

Nowadays, with a widespread increase in awareness of environmental concerns, the ESG concept has been acknowledged as one of the most vital strategic movements for firms. This paper explores the effect of ESG activities on brand image and customers’ purchase intentions. The moderating effects of a range of sociological factors are also investigated. Based on 168 samples of Thai participants, survey research with an online questionnaire tool was employed to collect the data with structural equation modelling (SEM) to test hypotheses and verify the conceptual framework of this study. The results showed that all environmental, social, and governance activities significantly affect brand image and customers’ purchase intentions. For brand image as a consequence of ESG activities, social activities (b = 0.511) play the strongest role, followed by environmental (b = 0.482) and governance (b = 0.434) activities. On the other hand, environmental activities (b = 0.420) of the ESG concept strongly influence customers' purchase intentions, followed by social (b = 0.395) and governance activities (b = 0.309). Additionally, the moderation analysis found that the effects of ESG activities on brand image and purchase intentions vary depending on gender, age, and education level. These findings provide a deeper understanding of the ESG concept for both academics and practitioners. This paper offers implications and recommendations for further research based on the outcomes. Doi: 10.28991/HIJ-2022-03-04-07 Full Text: PDF
Punching Shear Characterization of Steel Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Flat Slabs
Authors: Mohammed Abbas H. , Mubarak Huda M. , Hussein Ali K. , Abulghafour Taymour Z. , Nassani Dia Eddin
Published: June 2023

Punching shear failure in thin slabs under concentrated loads can cause shear stresses near columns. The use of steel fiber is a practical way to improve a slab-column connection's punching strength and deformation capacity. In this study, the capacity and behavior of steel fiber-reinforced concrete flat slabs are examined under punching shear force. Ten small-scale flat slabs were tested, eight of which had steel fiber and two without. Two parameters are studied in this paper, which are the fiber volume ratio (from 0% to 2%) and the stub column load shape (circle and square). The test results include the concrete compressive strength, crack patterns, punching shear, and load-defection behavior of the slabs. Based on the experimental results, it was found that the punching shear capacity of slabs with steel fiber (S5) increased by 21.8% compared to slabs without steel fiber (S1), and the slabs with steel fiber had more ductility compared to the slabs without fiber. Doi: 10.28991/HIJ-2022-03-04-08 Full Text: PDF
Rainfall probability analysis for crop planning in selected locations of Tamil Nadu
Authors:   Department of Agricultural meteorology, Tamil Nadu agricultural university Coimbatore - 641 003, S SUBBULAKSHMI , R SELVARAJU ,   Department of Agricultural meteorology, Tamil Nadu agricultural university Coimbatore - 641 003, S MANICKA SUNDARAM ,   Agricultural Research Station,Bhavanisagar
Published: June 2023

Rainfall data (>30 years) of two locations (Bhavanisagar and Madurai) in Tamil Nadu were subjected to probability and variability analysis. The results revealed that on an average Bhavanisagar and Madurai receive 636 and 845 mm of rainfall annualy with a Coefficient of Variation of 35 and 21%. The average seasonal rainfall of South West Monsoon is 181 and 313 mm with a Co-efficient of Variation of 59 and 28 per cent. Both the locations are dominated by North East Monsoon season (302 and 376 mm) rainfall with more than 40% variability. North East Monsoon accounts for 48 and 45 per cent of total annual rainfall at Bhavanisagar and Madurai, respectively. The highest mean rainfall of 144 and 150 mm was recorded during the month October at Bhavanisagar and Madurai, respectively. The standard weeks 38 40 and 42nd - 47th have >50% chance to get 25 mm of rainfall in Bhavanisagar. At Madurai, standard weeks from 36 to 47 had more than 50% chance to get 25 mm of rainfall. At both the locations the chance of getting sowing rain seldom exceeds the threshold level of 67%, indicating risk of dry seeding under dryland condition. However, the analysis indicated that dry seeding could be taken up under dryland condition with substantial risk both at Bhavanisagar and Madurai. At Bhavanisagar region there is more chance for intermittent dry spell and hence drought resistant short duration grain legumes and groundnut may be suggested.
Pesticidal seed treatment to prolong the storability of fodder pearl millet cv.Co.8.
Authors:   Department of seed science and technology Tamil Nadu agricultural University Coimbatore-3, R SRIMATHI , J RENUGADEVI ,   Department of seed science and technology Tamil Nadu agricultural University Coimbatore-3, P SUDHA ,   Department of seed science and technology Tamil Nadu agricultural University Coimbatore-3
Published: June 2023

Seeds of fodder pearl millet ev. CO 8 were treated individually and in combination with insecticides viz. Diflubenzuron and Deltamethrin and Carbendazim, a fungicide and stored in gunny bags under ambient conditions of Coimbatore for a period of 12 months. The results revealed that after 12 months of storage, the seeds treated with Diflubenzuron @ 4mg kg + Carbendazim @ 2.5 g kg¹ of seed recorded the highest germination of 84 per cent and this was followed by the seeds treated individually with Carbendazim (2.5 g kg) or Deltamethrin (40 mg kg) recording 82 per cent germination, which were higher than the minimum seed certification standard (MSCS) for pearl millet seeds. Storage fungi and the stored grain pest of pearl millet were also controlled by these treatments
Profile of farm women in imparting knowledge and skills to farm women
Authors:   Dept. of Agril Extn. and Rural sociology, Tamil Nadu Agrl University, Coimbatore-641 003., R PREMAVATHI
Published: June 2023

The study on socio economic profile of farm women in imparting knowledge and skills to farm women was conducted in the six villages of Sarkarsamakulam block of Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu. One hundred and fifty TANWA trained farm women were selected for the study. The study reveled that, majority of the farm women. were young and well educated. Most of them had high level of exposure to information source, extension agency contact and social participation. The correlation and regression analysis revealed that the three variables namely form size, exposure to information. source and innovativeness exhibited a positive and highly significant relationship with knowledge gain and skill acquisition.
Biochemical methods for the detection of Erwinia carotovora varcarotovora from onion seeds
Authors:   Dept.of Plant Pathology,Centre For Plant Protection Studies, tamil Nadu Agrl University Cbe 3, V SENDHIL VEL , T MARIMUTHU ,   Dept.of Plant Pathology,Centre For Plant Protection Studies, tamil Nadu Agrl University Cbe 3, T RAGUCHANDER ,   Dept.of Plant Pathology,Centre For Plant Protection Studies, tamil Nadu Agrl University Cbe 3, K PRABAKAR ,   Dept.of Plant Pathology,Centre For Plant Protection Studies, tamil Nadu Agrl University Cbe 3
Published: June 2023

Erwinia carotovora var. caotovora causes soft rot of onion bulbs in storage.. Three genotypes (N 53, L3V1T2C2, ACSP1) were tested for the presence of soft rot bacterium in seed by roll towel and blotter paper method. A higher per centage of oozing was observed in ACSP1 (81.0 and 83.2 per cent). Studies on morphological character revealed that the causal agent was E. cartovora var carotovora. The biochemical tests. were carried out to identify the causal agents. The bacterium was identified as Erwinia carotovora var. carotovora and pathogenicity was proved. The seed borne nature of E. carotovora var. carotovora was proved.
Impact of viscose pulp industry effluent and seed inoculants on cowpea yield and quality
Authors:   Department of Environmental Sciences,TAmil Nadu Agricultural University Coimbatore 641 003, M SUGUNA DEVAKUMARI , P S RUPAVATHI ,   Department of Environmental Sciences,TAmil Nadu Agricultural University Coimbatore 641 003, K ARUNA DEVI ,   Department of Environmental Sciences,TAmil Nadu Agricultural University Coimbatore 641 003
Published: June 2023

The effluent obtained from South India Viscose Industries Ltd., was analysed and found to be rich in organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, trace elements and had EC below the critical limit fixed for irrigation. In order to assess the impact of viscose pulp industry effluent and Rhizobium and phosphobacteria seed inoculant on cowpen production, a pot culture study was conducted. From the study, it was concluded that, the germination percentage, number of nodules and yield and 100 seed weight were better under effluent irrigation along with Rhizobium + phosphobacteria seed treatment.
Effect of Fertilizer NPK and FYM on Yield of Cotton and Nutrient Status in Black Soil
Authors:   Dept.of Soil Science and Agrl University Tamil Nadu Agricultural University Coimbatore  641 003, A RAJA RAJAN , P JANAKIJANAKI ,   Dept.of Soil Science and Agrl University Tamil Nadu Agricultural University Coimbatore  641 003, K APPAVU ,   Dept.of Soil Science and Agrl University Tamil Nadu Agricultural University Coimbatore  641 003, A VADIVEL ,   Dept.of Soil Science and Agrl University Tamil Nadu Agricultural University Coimbatore  641 003
Published: June 2023

A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of N, P and K fertilization with FYM in cotton (var KC 2) at Agricultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Kovilpatti. The treatments included two levels of FYM (0 and 5 t ha') with five combinations of NPK viz. recommended levels of N, P and K (80, 40 and 40 kg N, PO, and KO ha', respectively) (T); NPK (T); NPK (T); NPKo (T); NPK (T) and were replicated thrice in randomized block design. The results showed that the different combinations of treatments and FYM tried did not have significant effect on the seed cotton yield. The recommended level of fertilizer nutrients application recorded significantly highest seed cotton yield. The omission of P application did not affect the seed cotton yield. However the omission of N and K significantly reduced the seed cotton yield. The FYM application had effect only on the N uptake and the nutrients taken up by the crop at square forming stage had significant and positive correlation with the total seed cotton yield. The different treatments tried in the experiment had significant influence on available N status in the soil.
Effect of foliar spray of nutrients and plant growth regulators (PGRs) for yield maximization in blackgram
Authors:   Department of Crop PHysiology,Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore- 641 003., N SRITHARAN , ARAVAZHI ANITHA ,   Department of Crop PHysiology,Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore- 641 003., VANANGAMUDI MALLIKA ,   Department of Crop PHysiology,Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore- 641 003.
Published: June 2023

An experiment was conducted during 2002 to study the morphological physiological and biochemical effects of foliar spray of nutrients and plant growth regulators on yield and productivity of blackgram. The treatments include foliar spray of 2% DAP, 0.2% Boric acid, 0.5% FeSO,, 0.5% ZnSO, 0.5% sodium molybdate, 2% urea, 0.1% humic acid, 1% KC1, Salicylic acid 100 ppm, Brassinolide 0.1 ppm and humic acid 20 kg basal application. Among these treatments, foliar spray of 2% urea recorded the highest yield of 955.2 kg/ha followed by foliar spray of KC1 1% along with soil application of humic acid 20 kg/ha (926.2 kg/ha). The yield enhancement may be due to improved morphological, physiological and biochemical parameters. The tested chemicals particularly 2% urea were found effective towards yield maximization in black gram.
Studies on the repellent properties of Calotropis gigantiea R. Br. Plant parys against important storage insect pests
Authors:   Dept of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agrl. University,Coimbatore 641003 Tamilnadu., R ARULPRAKASH , R VEERAVEL ,   Dept of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agrl. University,Coimbatore 641003 Tamilnadu.
Published: June 2023

Repellant activity of the milkweed plant, Calotropis gigantea R.Br. was evaluated against important storage pests such as Callosobruchus maculatus (Fab.), Sitophilus oryzae Linn, and Tribolium castaneum (Herbst). Leaf, flower, stem, root and whole plant were Soxhlet extracted by using petroleum ether solvent and repellency test was carried out using glass olfactometer. Whole plant extract at 5 per cent. concentration had maximum repellent effect followed by leaf, flower, stem and root extracts.
Influecnce of plant population and N splits on seed, oil yield and economics of rainfed sunflower (Helianthus annus L.)
Authors:   Department of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore 641003, M VIJAYAKUMAR , P SUBBIAN ,   Department of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore 641003, S D SUNDERSINGH ,   Department of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore 641003, N K PRABHAKARAN ,   Department of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore 641003
Published: June 2023

Field experiments were carried out at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, during the Northeast monsoon (October-December) seasons of 1997 and 1988 in split plot design to study the influence of plant population and N splits on seed, oil yield and economics of rainfed sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). The main plot consisted of three plant poulations (1,33,333 plants ha", 1,11,111 plants ha and 88, 888 plants ha¹) and the sub plot treatments of six N split levels. - The results revealed that the seed, oil yield and economic return were higher at closer (30x25 cm) spacing in 1997 and at wider spacing (30 x 37.5 cm) in 1998 due to wider variation in rainfall distribution. In both years the spilt application of nitrogen resulted in higher seed, oil yield and economic return when compared to full basal application.
Genetic variability and correlation studies in sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas Lam. L.)
Authors:   Dept of Vegetable Crops, Hortl College and Research Institute, Tamilnadu Agrl university Coimbatore 641 003, ANSHEBO TESHOME , D VEERARAGAVATHATHAM ,   Dept of Vegetable Crops, Hortl College and Research Institute, Tamilnadu Agrl university Coimbatore 641 003, M KANNAN ,   Dept of Vegetable Crops, Hortl College and Research Institute, Tamilnadu Agrl university Coimbatore 641 003
Published: June 2023

Genetic variability and correlation coefficients were worked out for eight parameters in 86 genotypes of sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas Lam) of diverse origin. For all the characters studied, phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was higher than the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) indicating the influence of environment on the expression of these traits. The characters viz. number of branches per plant, weight of single tuber, girth of tuber and length of tuber showed higher estimates of PCV and GCV. High heritability estimates were noticed for vine traits viz. length of vine, number of branches per plant and weight of foliage per plant. The least estimate of heritability was observed for number of tubers per plant. The characters such as number of branches per plant, weight of single tuber, girth of tuber and length of tuber showed high heritability estimates associated with high genetic advance indicating the presence of additive gene effect. Characters like weight of single tuber, girth of tuber, length of tuber and number of branches per plant showed a strong positive correlation with tuber yield. However, length of vine expressed a strong negative correlation with it. Selection based on weight of single tuber, length of tuber and number of branches. per plant can be effective for genetic improvement of sweet potato.