bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Noise Sensitivity in Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Ghazavi Zahra , Davarinejad Omran , Jasimi Foad , Mohammadian Youkhabeh , Sadeghi Kheirollah
Published: December 2023

Background:

The aim of this study was to compare noise sensitivity (NS) in schizophrenic individuals with/without hallucinations and healthy individuals.

Procedure:

A retrospective (causal–comparative) study was conducted in three groups: (i) A group of individuals with schizophrenia and auditory hallucinations (14 participants), (ii) a group of schizophrenic individuals without auditory hallucinations (14 participants) selected by purposive sampling and (iii) a control group (19 participants) selected by convenience sampling. Schutte’s Noise Sensitivity Questionnaire was used to measure NS. Analysis of Variance and Kruskal–Wallis tests were applied to compare the three groups. All the analyses were done using SPSS-20.

Results:

ANOVA results indicated that the groups were significantly different in terms of NS (p<0.001) and that NS was higher in groups whose participants were schizophrenic (119.64 and 102.36, respectively, in groups with or without auditory hallucinations) compared to that in the group with healthy individuals (94.79).

Conclusions:

On the basis of this study, it became evident that patients with schizophrenia are more sensitive to noise than healthy individuals. The results also indicated that schizophrenic patients with auditory hallucinations are more sensitive to noise than those without auditory hallucinations.
Physiological and perceptual auditory consequences of hunting-related recreational firearm noise exposure in young adults with normal hearing sensitivity
Authors: Ananthakrishnan Saradha , McElree Carrie , Martin Lauren
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

The objective of the current study was to describe outcomes on physiological and perceptual measures of auditory function in human listeners with and without a history of recreational firearm noise exposure related to hunting.

Design:

This study assessed the effects of hunting-related recreational firearm noise exposure on audiometric thresholds, oto-acoustic emissions (OAEs), brainstem neural representation of fundamental frequency (F0) in frequency following responses (FFRs), tonal middle-ear muscle reflex (MEMR) thresholds, and behavioral tests of auditory processing in 20 young adults with normal hearing sensitivity.

Results:

Performance on both physiological (FFR, MEMR) and perceptual (behavioral auditory processing tests) measures of auditory function were largely similar across participants, regardless of hunting-related recreational noise exposure. On both behavioral and neural measures including different listening conditions, performance degraded as difficulty of listening condition increased for both nonhunter and hunter participants. A right-ear advantage was observed in tests of dichotic listening for both nonhunter and hunter participants.

Conclusion:

The null results in the current study could reflect an absence of cochlear synaptopathy in the participating cohort, variability related to participant characteristics and/or test protocols, or an insensitivity of the selected physiological and behavioral auditory measures to noise-induced synaptopathy.
Analysing the Change in Brain Waves due to Heterogeneous Road Traffic Noise Exposure Using Electroencephalography Measurements
Authors: Manohare Manish , Rajasekar E. , Parida Manoranjan
Published: December 2023

Road traffic is the major source of noise pollution leading to human health impacts in urban areas. This study presents the relation between changes in human brain waves due to road traffic noise exposure in heterogeneous conditions. The results are based on Electroencephalogram (EEG) data collected from 12 participants through a listening experience of traffic scenarios at 14 locations in New Delhi, India. Energetic, spectral and temporal characteristics of the noise signals are presented. The impact of noise events on spectral perturbations and changes in the relative power (RP) of EEG signals are evaluated. Traffic noise variations modulate the rate of change in α and θ EEG bands of temporal, parietal and frontal lobe of the brain. The magnitude of event-related spectral perturbation (ERSP) increases with each instantaneous increase in traffic noise, such as honking. Individual noise events impact the temporal lobe more significantly in quieter locations compared with noisy locations. Increase in loudness changes the RP of α band in frontal lobe. Increase in temporal variation due to intermittent honking increases the RP of θ bands, especially in right parietal and frontal lobe. Change in sharpness leads to variation in the RP of right parietal lobe in theta band. Whereas, inverse relation is observed between roughness and the RP of right temporal lobe in gamma band. A statistical relationship between noise indicators and EEG response is established.
Effects of Genes, Lifestyles, and Noise Kurtosis on Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Authors: Yin Xiaoyu , Li Zheng , Zhao Tianyu , Yang Lei
Published: December 2023

Objective:

To explore the association of lifestyles, caspase gene (CASP), and noise kurtosis with noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).

Design:

Three hundred seven NIHL individuals and 307 matched controls from factories in Chinese factories participated in this case–control study. Age, sex, noise exposure, exfoliated oral mucosa cells, and lifestyles of participants were gathered by the authors. The single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped using the Kompetitive Allele Specific polymerase chain reaction (KASP) method.

Results:

The risk of NIHL was higher for people who worked in the complex noise environment than for people exposed to steady noise environment (adjusted: OR = 1.806, P = 0.002). Smoking and regular earphone use increased the risk of NIHL (adjusted: OR = 1.486, P = 0.038). The GG genotype of the recessive model and G allele in rs1049216, together with the TT genotype of the recessive model in rs6948 decreased the NIHL risk (adjusted: OR = 0.659, P = 0.017). Oppositely, the AA genotype of additive model in rs12415607 had a higher NIHL risk (adjusted: OR = 1.804, P = 0.024). In the additive models, there was a positive interaction between noise kurtosis and CASP3 polymorphisms (RERI = 1.294, P = 0.013; RERI = 1.198, P = 0.031).

Conclusions:

Noise kurtosis, three SNPs (rs1049216, rs6948, and rs12415607), smoking and earphone use were found to be related to NIHL, and there was a positive interaction between noise kurtosis and CASP3. Results from this study can be used to prevent and detect NIHL and for genetic testing.
Development of an Arabic “Command in Noise” Hearing Test to Assess Fitness for Duty
Authors: Rawas Iman , Rowan Daniel , Semeraro Hannah , Bleeck Stefan , Bamanie Afaf
Published: December 2023

Objective:

The goal is to implement the developed speech material in a hearing test to assess auditory fitness for duty (AFFD), specifically in areas where the intelligibility of spoken commands is essential.

Design:

In study 1, a speech corpus with equal intelligibility was constructed using constant stimuli to test each target word’s psychometric functions. Study 2 used an adaptive interleaving procedure to maximize equalized terms. Study 3 used Monte Carlo simulations to determine speech test accuracy.

Study sample:

Study 1 (n = 24) and study 2 (n = 20) were completed by civilians with normal hearing. Study 3 ran 10,000 simulations per condition across various conditions varying in slopes and speech recognition thresholds (SRTs).

Results:

Studies 1 and 2 produced three 8-word wordlists. The mean, standard deviation in dB SNR is −13.1 1.2 for wordlist 1, −13.7 1.6 for wordlist 2, and −13.7 1.3 for wordlist 3, with word SRTs within 3.4 dB SNR. Study 3 revealed that a 6 dB SNR range is appropriate for equally understandable speech using a closed-set adaptive technique.

Conclusion:

The developed speech corpus may be used in an AFFD measure. Concerning the homogeneity of the speech in noise test material, care should be taken when generalizing and using ranges and standard deviations from multiple tests.
The Impact of Aircraft Noise on the Cognitive Function of Elementary School Students in Korea
Authors: Baek Kiook , Park Chulyong , Sakong Joon
Published: December 2023

Background:

This study evaluated the effects of chronic exposure to aircraft noise on the cognitive functions of Korean elementary school students attending an elementary school around a military airfield and clarified the relationship between noise exposure and cognitive functions.

Methods:

Five schools with average weight equivalent continuous perceived noise levels (WECPNL) of ≥75 dB were selected from four regions in Korea. Each of these schools was matched with a non-exposed school. The Korean Intelligence Test Primary (KIT-P) was used to measure the scores of four subcategories and the intelligence quotient (IQ). The noise exposure groups were divided into high-exposure (WECPNL ≥ 80 dB) and medium-exposure (75 ≤ WECPNL < 80) groups. The period of exposure during the school year was collected. A linear mixed model, with matched pairs of schools, was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

In the multivariable linear mixed model adjusted by possible confounders, the reasoning score was significantly lower in the high-exposure group of students than in the no-exposure group. Other scores and IQ were lower in the noise exposure groups, although these were not statistically significant. The duration of exposure did not show a significant relationship with cognitive functions.

Conclusion:

Chronic exposure to noise from military airfields may influence the cognitive functions, thereby reducing the learning performance of Korean children.
Determining the Relationship Between Noise Sensitivity Levels and Violence Tendencies of Nursing Students
Authors: Karabey Tuba
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

Exposure to noise has been related to aggressive behavior. As hospital noise may affect nursing students’ psycho-physiological health due to their inexperience, it; 1; is important to investigate possible violent tendencies among them. Since no similar research has been found in the literature, a study has been conducted to investigate the relationship between noise sensitivity and violence tendencies among nursing students.

Methods:

The design of this study was cross-sectional. There were 260 nursing students (61% female) aged 18 to 24 years who filled out the Personal Information Form, Weinstein’s Noise Sensitivity scale, and Violence Tendency scale. We investigated the distribution of students’ noise sensitivity and violence tendencies scores in relation to age, gender, grade, and place of residence. Multiple regression analysis was performed with the noise sensitivity score and possible confounders as independent variables and the severity tendency score as a dependent variable.

Results:

We found smoking to be significantly and positively associated with both noise sensitivity and violent tendencies (P < 0.001). Multiple regression analysis with smoking as a possible confounder revealed that a raise of 0.203 units on the violence tendencies scale may be expected per unit increase on the noise sensitivity scale (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Due to the limitations of our study, a possible relationship between nursing students’ noise sensitivity and violent tendencies is tentatively pointed out. More detailed studies are needed to test this assumption.
Online questionnaire on knowledge and risk factors associated with keratoconus
Authors: Juliani Mariana Garcia Herrero , Penhalber Eduarda Eduarda Penhalber , Ferrari Marcia , Rodrigues Pablo Felipe , Moscovici Bernardo Kaplan
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of the study is to investigate the impact of body mass index on the progression of this disease and verify patients’ knowledge about the disease and possible forms of treatment.

Methods:

A nonrandomized cross-sectional study analyzing the prevalence of risk factors and patients’ knowledge of keratoconus through a Google forms questionnaire.

Results:

This study demonstrates that most keratoconus patients understand the severity of the disease and maintain regular follow-ups with the ophthalmologist, although many seek information through social networks. We found a correlation between the laterality of the eye with more severe keratoconus and the eye with more rubbing or sleeping with it sunk into the pillow.

Conclusion:

Despite having a small sample of participants, we can notice some statistical significances, such as the correlation between the eye with more severe keratoconus and the laterality of rubbing the eyes or pressing them against the pillow, suggesting a risk factor for the onset or progression of the disease. In addition, we can see that social networks have been widely used as source of information for patients about their disease.
Corneal drug delivery with tattoo technique: A new route for intrastromal cornea administration
Authors: Farah Michelle de Lima , Arbache Samir , Grupenmacher Alex Treiger , Muralha Felipe , Filho Acácio Alves de Souza Lima , Maia Mauricio , Burnier Miguel , Rubens Belfort Jr.
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to describe a new corneal drug delivery technique using a tattoo machine.

Materials and Methods:

Five human eye bank corneas and four rabbits were included in the study. All interventions were performed with a tattoo machine with the following: 60-Hz needling speed, 200-m needling depth, and liner cartridges with seven solid microneedles. Our study was conducted in two stages: an experimental model with ink injection in eye bank corneas and a drug delivery in the corneas of live rabbis. Each cornea received from the eye bank was injected with black and brown inks. Each rabbit received an intrastromal application of biguanide 0.2 mg/mL, triamcinolone 40 mg/mL, or bevacizumab 25 mg/mL. Dry needling was performed in the fourth rabbit. The rabbits were followed clinically for 30 days and were euthanized on day 30. All corneas were photographed before and after the procedure and then processed, stained with H and E, and underwent microscope analysis.

Results:

In the human corneas, pigment was delivered into the corneas with the tattoo machine and the ink remained in the stroma at the desired and stipulated depth. In the rabbits, the treated corneas showed no vascularization, inflammatory cells, or corneal perforation after 30 days of the procedure.

Conclusions:

Corneal drug delivery performed with the tattoo machine was achieved without side effects. Further studies are needed to determine the safety and effectiveness of the intervention in ocular pathologies.
Chat Generative Pretrained Transformer to optimize accessibility for cataract surgery postoperative management
Authors: Waisberg Ethan , Ong Joshua , Masalkhi Mouayad , Zaman Nasif , Sarker Prithul , Lee Andrew G. , Tavakkoli Alireza
Published: December 2023

Cataract surgery is one of the most common surgeries (over 3 million cases) in the United States per year. Consequently, there are multiple diverse and unique postoperative questions in the postoperative course following cataract extraction. To provide rapid and accessible guidance, large language models may help optimize this area in cataract surgery. Chat Generative Pretrained Transformer (GPT) is a complex conversational artificial intelligence model built by OpenAI and trained using an extensive collection of textual data sourced from the internet. The utilization of ChatGPT has a significant potential for diverse applications within various academic disciplines. In the field of medicine, it has the potential to aid health-care professionals, researchers, and patients through a variety of ways. We describe the use of ChatGPT to respond to common postoperative questions associated with cataract extraction. Although further research is required before more widespread acceptance and clinical implementation, we believe that GPT-4 has the potential to improve cataract and refractive postoperative care by providing immediate and accurate responses to patient queries.
Text-to-image artificial intelligence to understand astronaut visual phenomena during spaceflight
Authors: Waisberg Ethan , Ong Joshua , Masalkhi Mouayad , Zaman Nasif , Lee Andrew G. , Tavakkoli Alireza
Published: December 2023

Astronauts have documented visual phenomena during spaceflight. However, given that these are only experienced by the astronaut themselves, these unique neuro-ophthalmic visual phenomena occur while in space which remain poorly understood by nonastronauts. There are various risks to the neuro-ophthalmic system in space including spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome and galactic cosmic radiation, and thus, further understanding what astronauts are experiencing is of critical importance. In this study, we employ artificial intelligence (AI) text-to-image AI frameworks to descriptions of visual phenomena experienced during spaceflight to further understand phosphenes and oscillopsia in space motion sickness. Building upon this technology may help researchers and clinicians to further understand how the spaceflight environment impacts the neuro-ophthalmic system.
Lacrimal gland cavernous hemangioma masquerading pleomorphic adenoma
Authors: Abusleme Eugenia I. , Arraño Leonardo , Bustos Juan Carlos , Bergeron Sabrina , Zoroquiain Pablo
Published: December 2023

A 62-year-old female patient consulted for a slowly progressive, painless, upper eyelid mass that has been present for 9 years. At examination, a nodular tumor in the orbital lobe of the lacrimal gland was observed. Computed tomography scan demonstrates a 15 mm, predominantly solid, well-demarcated lesion. The working diagnosis was suggestive of a pleomorphic adenoma. The mass was removed by anterior orbitotomy and the excisional biopsy revealed an intralacrimal gland cavernous hemangioma. Glucose transporter type 1 (GLUT1) immunohistochemistry was negative, confirming the hamartomatous nature of this vascular lesion. This case highlights the importance of considering vascular lesions in the differential diagnosis of lacrimal gland tumors as these tumors may need different management. In this case, GLUT1-negative immunohistochemistry was a helpful marker to differentiate a malformation from a neoplastic process.
Orbital mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma
Authors: Teles Lucas Pinheiro Machado , Lima Júlia Cristina De Oliveira , Schmidt Luiz Paulo Bastos , Andrade Eric Pinheiro De
Published: December 2023

Orbital lymphomas are rare conditions, and most non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas of the orbit are extranodal lymphomas of B cells of the marginal zone of the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue type (MALT). In this report, we describe a case of MALT-type marginal zone B lymphoma in the orbital region. A female patient, 45 years old, searched for ophthalmological care, complaining, for 15 years, of low visual acuity (VA) associated with nonpulsatile bilateral proptosis, VA of 20/30 in the right eye and 20/40 in the left eye, without other changes. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and orbits showed solid expansive lesions in both orbital spaces, with biopsy and immunohistochemical study of the left orbit, showing lymphoproliferative syndrome, favoring B lymphoma of the MALT-type marginal zone. Thus, in view of the nonspecific initial presentation of MALT lymphoma, the use of imaging tests, as well as microsurgical biopsy, is essential for early diagnosis and surgical planning and constitutes the gold standard for adequate diagnostic elucidation.
Manual versus automated gonioscopy: Pros and cons of semi-automated devices
Authors: Puerto Mayerly Lopez , Martinez Claudia , Criollo Eveling , Toquica Jeanneth , Gomez H.
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

Narrow anterior chamber angles (ACAs) are a risk factor for closed-angle glaucoma development, being highly prevalent in Latin-American population. Manual gonioscopy remains the gold standard for ACA evaluation; however, new technologies have emerged, mainly to improve measurement objectivity.

Purpose:

The purpose of the study was to estimate the agreement and reproducibility of ACA measurement between manual gonioscopy performed with Posner lens, versus semi-automated gonioscopy using a prototype of the GS-1 gonioscope (NIDEK Co., Ltd.).

Materials and Methods:

This was a prospective blinded diagnostic test and interobserver agreement study. Manual gonioscopy was performed by a glaucoma specialist (observer 1), and semi-automated gonioscopy was taken by trained technicians using the GS-1 device. Obtained images were saved and later analyzed by a second glaucoma specialist (observer 2). Univariate analysis and Cohen’s kappa coefficient were calculated to estimate agreement between the two methods for ACA amplitude measurement, graded according to the Shaffer’s classification system.

Results:

One thousand and five eyes of 503 patients were included in the study. The mean age was 50.1 years (range 18–93 years) and 64.5% of participants were women. Cohen’s kappa coefficient showed a moderate agreement among the two observers for ACA amplitude evaluation, which translated into a moderate reproducibility for gonioscopy performed with the GS-1 device compared with the gold standard (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Angle evaluation with semi-automated devices, such as the GS-1 gonioscope, can demonstrate concordant information compared with the gold standard, which remains being manual gonioscopy. Its main advantage is the possibility of storing photographic records for patient’s follow-up over time; however, these devices present certain limitations that make it necessary to carry out further studies.
Central serous chorioretinopathy: Chance or casualty?
Authors: Martínez-Ceballos María Alejandra , Daza-Irreño Laura Andrea , Rodríguez Francisco J.
Published: December 2023

We describe the clinical case of a man in the fifth decade of life with visual loss in his left eye without improvement since 2006, followed by a decreased visual acuity in 2017. The ophthalmic evaluation revealed bitemporal hemianopsia. A tumor in the pituitary gland was confirmed by a computed tomography scan and histopathological study. He was treated with systemic steroids and transsphenoidal resection. The patient improved his visual field, but his visual acuity remained decreased. Ophthalmological evaluation and imaging showed changes due to bilateral central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) with an acute process in the left eye during steroid systemic treatment. Reports suggest a possible association between the use of systemic corticosteroids and CSCR. Furthermore, the hormone-producing pituitary adenoma and retinal disease have been described. The ophthalmologist should consider the clinical backgrounds and risk factors associated with CSCR.
Good practices in simulation-based education in ophthalmology. A thematic series. An initiative of the Simulation Subcommittee of the Ophthalmology Foundation Part III: Curriculum development for simulation based education in ophthalmology training programs
Authors: Labuschagne Mathys , Thomsen Ann Sofia Skou , Lansingh Van , Grau Arturo , Clements John , Luciano Andreas Di , Musa Pablo , Ng Danny Siu-Chun , Filipe Helena Prior
Published: December 2023

Surgical training using the apprenticeship model of “see one, do one, teach one” originated with Halsted in the 19th century and has continued forward. However, it may not be the most optimal and effective way to train clinicians. Simulation-based training emerged in recent decades and follows a stepwise approach starting with basic skills training, moving on to procedural training culminating in team training in an authentic environment. Simulation is used for specific and specialized skills training, deliberate practice, mastery of learning, and rapid knowledge acquisition, creating a structured teaching and learning framework. Simulation-based education programs must be embedded into a curriculum and should not be an optional add-on. Several curriculum design models exist. In this review, the five-phase ADDIE approach was used to inform a prototype curriculum. ADDIE is the acronym for analyze, design, develop, implement, and evaluate. It is used for systematic instructional design where knowledge and performance gaps have been identified and where every step in the design is dictated by the learning outcomes. The ADDIE model is an iterative instructional design where the results of the formative evaluation of each phase may lead to any of the previous phases. The process validates the procedures and products related to the development of learner-centered learning encounters and adds credibility by analyzing and evaluating procedures and interrelatedness. Sufficient evidence that simulation training improves individual and team performance is available. It has a positive effect on self-confidence, knowledge, and operational performance. Further evidence proves that deliberate practice, procedural simulation, and debriefing can be transferred to operational performance in clinical settings and could result in safer and more efficient care for patients, health-care providers, and health systems.
Treatment Approach to Corneal Ulcer
Authors: Mohan Madhuvanthi , Natarajan Radhika , Kaur Kirandeep , Gurnani Bharat
Published: December 2023

The cornea is the clear, anterior surface of the eye and is pivotal in maintaining vision. The article comprehensively reviews the diagnostic evaluations and therapeutic strategies for corneal ulcers, a potentially sight-threatening condition. Corneal ulceration results from various etiologies including infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites) and non-infectious factors (dry eye, autoimmune conditions, and trauma). Prompt and accurate diagnosis, often employing techniques such as slit-lamp examination, corneal scrapings, and laboratory cultures, is crucial to guide appropriate treatment. Antibiotic therapy remains the cornerstone for bacterial ulcers, with fortified antibiotics or a combination approach often used for severe infections. Viral ulcers, predominantly caused by the herpes simplex virus, are managed with antiviral agents, while fungal ulcers necessitate antifungal medications, often for prolonged periods. Parasitic infections like Acanthamoeba keratitis require dual-therapy with antiseptics and anti-amoebozoal drugs. In cases where the etiology is non-infectious, addressing the underlying cause (e.g., lubricating drops for dry eye or immunosuppressants for autoimmune conditions) is paramount. The article emphasizes the importance of regular monitoring, as some ulcers might require surgical interventions like corneal transplantation, especially if there’s impending perforation or scarring affecting vision. Recent advancements, including the use of adjuvant therapies like corneal cross-linking and amniotic membrane transplantation, have shown promise in improving outcomes. In conclusion, the management of corneal ulcers is multi-faceted, requiring a tailored approach based on the underlying cause. Early detection, combined with the right therapeutic modality, is essential in preserving vision and preventing complications. This review serves as an invaluable guide for clinicians to navigate the challenges of diagnosing and managing corneal ulcers.
Triple Dystrophy—A Rare Occurrence: A Case Report
Authors: Koya Sree Divya , Potti Sudhakar , Shah Kruti
Published: December 2023

A 46-year-old female presented with decreased vision in both eyes for 2 years, with the best corrected visual acuity of 20/50 in the right eye (OD), 20/100 in the left eye (OS). On slit lamp examination multiple bread crumbs-like opacities at the anterior stromal level, multiple translucent lines at the stromal level, and multiple guttae at the endothelial level were found. AS-OCT revealed depositions at the stromal level and guttae at the endothelial level. Based on clinical features and supportive investigations, the patient was diagnosed with Avellino’s corneal dystrophy (Granular + Lattice), with Fuch’s endothelial dystrophy, in both eyes.
Case Series of Ocular Ophthalmyiasis
Authors: Bada Gnana Jyothi C. , Apoorva D , Gathinavar Salman S. , Patil Satish S.
Published: December 2023

Ocular Ophthalmyiasis, a relatively rare condition, refers to the infestation of ocular and orbital tissues with fly larvae. It can be present in three forms, Ophthalmomyiasis externa being one of them. We present a case series of three cases of Ophthalmomyiasis externa, which presented with features of conjunctivitis. The larvae were removed mechanically and the patient was relieved of signs and symptoms on follow-up. Ophthalmomyiasis externa in human beings, commonly caused by Oestrus ovis is a rare entity in India.
Rhinoscleroma, Light at the End of the Tunnel
Authors: Krishnamurthy Ilango
Published: December 2023

Rhinoscleroma is a rare, disfiguring granulomatous inflammatory lesion caused by Klebsiella rhinoscleromatis. This condition is commonly encountered in otorhinolaryngology practice and its presentation to an ophthalmologist seldom occurs. Ocular involvement occurs as an extension from nasal cavity. The management has been challenging with higher recurrence even after debridement. This report illustrates such a case of rhinoscleroma which has presented initially as nasal polyposis and later with orbital extension due to loss of follow-up. This was confirmed with histopathology as rhinoscleroma and management was done accordingly.
Blister Beetle Induced Keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Shanmugam Shanmathi , Krishnamurthy Ilango
Published: December 2023

Blister beetle-induced keratoconjunctivitis is the rarest presentation. Blister beetle also known as Rove beetle, belongs to the class insecta and order – coleoptera.[1] The species paedrussabeus which is also called as Nairobi fly is easily recognized by its characteristic red, black and dark green colour.[1] This paedrus genus produces the chemical toxin called paedrin which is responsible for characteristic dermatological and rare ocular manifestations. Dermatitis in the form of violaceus painful blisters with intense itching is its most commonest manifestation. Ocular manifestations are very rare and occur only secondary to accidental contamination of eyes with the fingers which had contact with toxic chemicals from the blister site. Here, in this case report we will be discussing one such rare case of keratoconjunctivitis due to blister beetle.
Prospective Study of Clinical Characteristics and Visual Outcome in Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada Syndrome in a Tertiary Eye Hospital in South India
Authors: Balakrishnan Saranya , Arunachalasamy Chandrika , Ramalingam Uma
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

To describe the demographic pattern, clinical characteristics, treatment modalities, and visual outcome in Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada (VKH) disease patients observed at a tertiary eye care centre in South India.

Methods:

A prospective chart analysis of 38 patients with VKH disease.

Results:

Of the 38 VKH patients, 31 (81.6%) were female, the mean age was 39.8 years, and the median duration of symptoms was 10 days (range: 2 to 180 days). The most common ocular complaint was a defective vision (70 eyes or 92.1%). Extraocular manifestations were headache (13 patients or 34.2%) and tinnitus (4 patients or 10.5%). Twenty-four patients (63.2%) presented with bilateral panuveitis, and 12 patients (31.6%) had posterior uveitis. The most common posterior segment presentation included bilateral serous retinal detachment (100%), disc oedema (37 eyes or 48.7%), and vitritis (31 eyes or 40.8%). All patients (100%) were treated with oral and topical prednisolone, based on the ocular inflammation status, 9 patients (23.7%) required dexamethasone (intramuscular), 39 eyes (51.3%) required posterior subtenon triamcinolone, 16 patients (28.9%) required methotrexate, 1 (2.6%) required cyclophosphamide, 1 (2.6%) required azathioprine. At the final visit, the majority of the patients had statistically significant good visual outcomes.

Conclusion:

Prompt diagnosis and early initiation of treatment with systemic, local steroid and immunosuppressive therapy showed faster recovery with good visual outcome.
Decrease in household secondhand smoking among Korean adolescents associated with smoke-free policies: grade-period-cohort and interrupted time series analyses
Authors: Kim Hana , Kang Heewon , Cho Sung-il
Published: December 2023

OBJECTIVES: Smoke-free areas have expanded and related campaigns have been implemented since 1995 in Korea. As a result, household secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure has decreased over the past 15 years. We assessed the cohort effect, the effect of a 2008 campaign on household SHS exposure, and the impact of a complete smoking ban in public places along with increased penalties, as implemented in December 2011.METHODS: Nationally representative cross-sectional 15-wave survey data of Korean adolescents were used. The 810,516 participants were classified into 6 grade groups, 15 period groups, and 20 middle school admission cohorts. An age-period-cohort analysis, conducted with the intrinsic estimator method, was used to assess the cohort effect of household SHS exposure, and interrupted-time series analyses were conducted to evaluate the effects of the smoke-free policy and the campaign.RESULTS: For cohorts who entered middle school from 2002 to 2008, the risk of household SHS exposure decreased among both boys and girls. Immediately after implementation of the smoke-free policy, the prevalence of household SHS exposure by period decreased significantly for boys (coefficient, -8.96; p<0.05) and non-significantly for girls (coefficient, -6.99; p=0.07). After the campaign, there was a significant decrease in household SHS exposure by cohort among boys, both immediately and post-intervention (coefficient, -4.84; p=0.03; coefficient, -1.22; p=0.02, respectively).CONCLUSIONS: A school-admission-cohort effect was found on household SHS exposure among adolescents, which was associated with the smoke-free policy and the campaign. Anti-smoking interventions should be implemented consistently and simultaneously.
Кросс-корреляционная функция представлений одного класса последовательностей над кольцами Галуа
Authors: Kamlovskii Oleg Vital'evich , Mizerov V V
Published: December 2023

Изучается кросс-корреляционная функция представлений одного класса последовательностей над кольцами Галуа. Полученные результаты, в частности, дают возможность оценить периоды рассматриваемых последовательностей.
Мультиподстановки на декартовом произведении групп и их свойства
Authors: Pogorelov Boris Aleksandrovich , Pudovkina Marina Aleksandrovna
Published: December 2023

Концепция мультиподстановочности является одной из первых, позволяющих формализовать «совершенное» рассеивание в алгоритмах блочного шифрования. Пусть $X$ - конечная группа. Рассматривается класс преобразований $H$ группы ${X^2} = X \times X$, предложенный С. Воденэ для реализации концепции. Каждое биективное преобразование из этого класса является мультиподстановкой. Установлено соответствие между мультиподстановками из $H$ и ортоморфизмами, а также их аналогами на $X$. Рассматриваются разбиения, задаваемые множеством смежных классов ${W_0},\ldots,{W_{r - 1}}$ по нормальной подгруппе ${W_0} \triangleleft X$, $W = \{ {W_0},\ldots,{W_{r - 1}}\} $. Для абелевой группы описано множество мультиподстановок из $H$, совершенно рассеивающих разбиения вида ${W^2}$ и $X \times W$. Доказано, что Фейстель-подобные инволютивные преобразования на $X$, которые в частном случае являются компонентами раундовой функции алгоритма CS, совершенно рассеивают разбиение вида $X \times W$.
Challenges in Diagnosing and Treating Acutely Febrile Children with Suspected Malaria at Health Care Facilities in the Lake Mwanza Region of Tanzania
Authors: Koliopoulos Philip , Kayange Neema , Jensen Christian , Gröndahl Britta , Eichmann Jana , Daniel Tim , Huth Florian , Eckert Till , Klamm Nele , Follmann Marlene , Medina-Montaño Grey Carolina , Hokororo Adolfine , Pretsch Leah , Klüber Julia , Schmidt Christian , Züchner Antke , Addo Marylyn M. , Okamo Bernard , Mshana Stephen E. , Gehring Stephan
Published: December 2023

Acute febrile diseases transmitted by mosquitos are a diagnostic challenge for pediatricians working in sub-Saharan Africa. Misclassification due to the lack of rapid, reliable diagnostic tests leads to the overuse of antibiotics and antimalarials. Children presenting with acute fever and suspected of having malaria were examined at health care facilities in the Mwanza Region of Tanzania. The sensitivity and specificity of blood smear microscopy and malaria rapid diagnostic tests that targeted histidine-rich protein 2 and Plasmodium lactate dehydrogenase were compared with a multiplex reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (PCR)–ELISA. Six hundred ninety-eight children presented with acute fever and met the criteria for inclusion; 23% received antibiotics and 23% received antimalarials prior to admission. Subsequently, 20% were confirmed by PCR to have Plasmodium falciparum infection. Blood smear microscopy exhibited 33% sensitivity and 93% specificity. The malaria rapid test provided 87% sensitivity and 98% specificity in detecting acute malaria infections. Only 7% of malaria-negative children received antimalarials at Sengerema Designated District Hospital when treatment was guided by the results of rapid testing. In contrast, 75% of malaria-negative patients were treated with antimalarial drugs at health facilities that used blood smears as the standard diagnostic test. Misclassification and premedication of nonmalarial, febrile illnesses contribute to the emergence of antimalarial and antimicrobial resistance. The incorporation of malaria rapid diagnostic tests into the clinical routine translated into improved treatment and a significant reduction in antimalarial drug prescriptions.
Experimental Translation: Techniques, Forms, Metalanguages
Authors: Brzostowska-Tereszkiewicz Tamara , Bazarnik Katarzyna
Published: December 2023

The aim of the article is to introduce a new series of studies on theoretical, methodological, analytical, and interpretive issues concerning “translation anomalies”. Functioning as a medium of artistic innovation and creative cognition, experimental literary translation can be compared to a laboratory, both for translators as well as literary and cultural scholars. It enables us to highlight the fundamental problems of artistic creation, the theory of literature, the theory of artistic translation and the theory of intercultural communication. On the one hand, experiments in translation confirm the necessity of using interdisciplinary research instruments; on the other hand, they show translation as a fundamental metaphor that describes the innovative and dynamic nature of technology.
The Art of (Non)Experimental Translation of Electronic Literature. On the (Un)Repeatable Translation of Loss Of Grasp
Authors: Przybyszewska Agnieszka
Published: December 2023

The article focuses on (Nie)panowanie, the Polish translation of Loss of Grasp by Serge Bouchardon and Vincent Volckaert. The main part of the study consists of a detailed report of translator’s work made in 2019 and her experience is compared with the experiences of translators of ten other language versions of the work. This study is accompanied by some more general reflection on problems of e-literature translation, especially in the context of experimental translation theory. Two main questions the author deals with are: should e-lit translation always be seen as an experimental one, and what does it, in practice, mean to translate interactive and multimedia work? The last part of the article offers a broader perspective on the field: reflections on trans-platform translation as a kind of digital literature preservation and on the problems of platform liability or programming obsolescence.
Translating Linguistic Poetry: Mario Martín Gijón’s Rendicción in Polish, English and French
Authors: Studzińska Joanna
Published: December 2023

The lyrical work of Spanish poet Mario Martín Gijón is linguistic in the extreme. Not only does he juxtapose similar-sounding words, but he fuses them graphically into one, with parentheses containing a word fragment [me(re)ce, entreg(u)arme] or two fragments separated by a slash [conju(r/nt)os, in(v/f)ierno]; he also uses enjambment within words (cor / reo, tarde / seosa). These techniques result in a multiplication of readings, which constitutes a major challenge for translators.
Terence Dooley, Miguel Ángel Real and the author of this essay (here in the dual role of translator and researcher) translated Martín Gijón’s poetry into English, French and Polish, respectively. Each translator had at their disposal language matter with very distinctive characteristics. The translator into French was able to take advantage of the largely convergent Romance roots, which made it possible to recreate many word games on a one-to-one scale or with only minimal changes. The English language afforded such
a possibility much less frequently, and Polish, just once. As a result, the English and Polish translations are re-creations to a much larger extent than the French one. However, the significant differences between each of the versions stem not only from the properties of the target languages, but also from the different approaches of the translators.
The Semantic Definition of Truth as an Emergent Symbol of Translation Process
Authors: Cirillo Giulia
Published: December 2023

In their attempt to provide formal accounts of the concepts of truth and meaning, Tarski and Davidson did not completely purify their theories of cumbersome terms that retain a ‘semantic’ link to the physical reality. However, it can be argued that this burden was not located where the authors and their subsequent commentators generally claimed. The following article aims to demonstrate that a common semantic concept at the heart of their analyses was the idea of translation process. Firstly then, both theories will be briefly reconstructed on the basis of texts by the philosophers themselves. Subsequently, the place of a translative element will be pointed out. Its recognition will provide an interesting answer to several objections against the accounts, also shedding a new light on the outcome of their venture. Yet most importantly, the study shows that Tarski’s and Davidson’s definitions ultimately clinch an inextricable connection between translation and truth – a bond which should be acknowledged in any proper enquiry into the meaning of verity.
Consumption of Cereals and Pulses in Tribal’s of North-Western Part in Nashik District, Maharashtra (India): Study With the Use of GIS
Authors: Suryawanshi Dnyaneshwar. S. , Kate Asha M.
Published: December 2023

Nutrition depends on diet, which consists of various articles of food. Hence, balanced and nutritious food is the most important single factor in connection with attainment and maintenance of health [1]. An individual’s health is largely determined by nutrition, and it is determined by diet, which consists of a variety of food items. A total of 115 villages were chosen, and 23 villages from the list of (ITDP) villages were randomly chosen in each tehsil (administrative unite in India). By using a probability proportional to the size of the various tribes, a total of 10 households from each chosen village were covered. For this reason, households in each village were divided into groups based on tribe and the necessary numbers of households (HH) from each tribe were included in the survey. The total amount of share in terms of weightage of assuming food item was calculated and using the allocated weightage. As a result, eating a well-balanced and healthy diet is the single most significant element in achieving and maintaining good health of an individual depends largely on nutrition. Tribal populations are malnourished and as a result of food deficiencies, they are at risk of developing dietary deficiency diseases.
BJWT-EHR: A novel JWT based Blockchain System for Electronic Health Records
Authors: MIZRAK Hamit , ASLAN Serpil , YILDIRIM Muhammed
Published: December 2023

Since most transactions in the world now take place digitally, it is crucial to maintain data integrity, share data securely, and provide quick access to it. Our reliance on computers in our daily lives is growing, and new data will inevitably be generated to meet this need. Providing for safe data exchange is becoming increasingly crucial every day. Maintaining and safeguarding the security of this data is crucial. Recently, the term "blockchain" has been used extensively for data security. A decentralized digital ledger called blockchain is in charge of preserving data integrity and facilitating safe data sharing. Blockchain transfers data by the principle of transparency, records data one way, and prevents reverse engineering. According to reports, blockchain is the general term for the technology that promotes common data sharing of these recorded data and reduces access times, essential for preserving data security. There are several risks to patients' privacy when information from medical records is stolen or altered. The damage caused by malicious people with this information causes serious harm to both the patient and the financing institution. Therefore, cloud-based EHR (electronic health records) is becoming a focal point in many areas. Storing patient data, ensuring data accuracy, protecting data confidentiality, and ensuring fast data transmission in the cloud system is a significant concerns in the healthcare industry. In this study, the layered architecture structure is also addressed in addition to the blockchain for sharing health data with the help of cloud service providers while providing data access control and auditing for EHR records. To enter this layered architectural system, new solutions are proposed by applying JWT (JSON web token) and hashing function of patient information. This proposed method manages and controls the patient's health records electronically. Therefore, these technologies used in the blockchain platform open new doors to more secure and sustainable solutions.
IoT Framework for Early Fire Detection and Control in Public Large Buildings: A Review
Authors: Mwambeleko Donald
Published: December 2023

Fire destruction in large public and private buildings, particularly in markets, public offices, education, and industries, has devastated properties, costing millions while taking people’s lives. Fire destruction also extends to environmental degradation. Complete fire prevention is unattainable. However, an effort could be made to early fire detection and control to lessen the tragedy. There are several technologies for real-time fire detection, like heat detection, gas detection, flame detection, and smoke detection. A maximal mix of fire-detecting algorithms should be utilized to maximize accuracy and eliminate false fire confirmation. This research paper presents an early fire detection and control framework for large public and private buildings that utilizes the available fire detection technologies reviewed from various pieces of literature. In justification of the framework adaptability, the research paper examined the current state of firefighting infrastructures in large and private buildings. The review was based on ten (10) large public and private buildings. The buildings were divided into four strata (business center's, public offices, education and industries). In addition, information from the Fire and Rescue Force (Mbeya Office) was used to further envision the possibility of the framework adaptation. Generally, effort should be made to ensure old and new large public and private buildings have well-functioning firefighting infrastructures as stipulated in policies and laws for public safety. Furthermore, slight infrastructure improvement is required, particularly in sustainable power supply, internet connectivity, and automatic fire detection and alarm systems, to adapt the presented early fire detection and control framework smoothly.