bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PROJECT DESIGN FOR COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE PRACTICAL SESSIONS BASED ON FIELD-PROGRAMMABLE GATE ARRAY
Authors: Bartnykas Kęstutis
Published: September 2021

Field-programmable logic arrays are often used in courses on computer architecture. The student must describe the processor with the external components necessary for its operation in the specified HDL (hardware description language) language according to the provided specification during a certain number of projects. The weakness of this approach is that the basis of such projects is a processor of one specific architecture, so the lecturer faces the issue of individualization of projects. This article proposes a solution based on dedicated processors instead of one programmable processor of a specific architecture. It’s shown here that the issue of project individualization is easier solvable in the proposed way, and it does not deviate from the theory of computer architecture, because the programmable processor is a generalization of a dedicated processor. The article describes project design ideas based on dedicated processors and gives some examples. Represented different instance than was applied during practical sessions of Computer Architecture that are held at the Department of Electronic Systems within VILNIUS TECH, i.e. certain modifications, and additions were applied.
Internal transcribed spacer primer evaluation for vascular plant metabarcoding
Authors: Kolter Andreas , Gemeinholzer Birgit
Published: September 2021

The unprecedented ongoing biodiversity decline necessitates scalable means of monitoring in order to fully understand the underlying causes. DNA metabarcoding has the potential to provide a powerful tool for accurate and rapid biodiversity monitoring. Unfortunately, in many cases, a lack of universal standards undermines the widespread application of metabarcoding. One of the most important considerations in metabarcoding of plants, aside from selecting a potent barcode marker, is primer choice. Our study evaluates published ITS primers in silico and in vitro, through mock communities and presents newly designed primers. We were able to show that a large proportion of previously available ITS primers have unfavourable attributes. Our combined results support the recommendation of the introduced primers ITS-3p62plF1 and ITS-4unR1 as the best current universal plant specific ITS2 primer combination. We also found that PCR optimisation, such as the addition of 5% DMSO, is essential to obtain meaningful results in ITS2 metabarcoding. Finally, we conclude that continuous quality assurance is indispensable for reliable metabarcoding results.
Réflexion sur les effets psychiques de la guerre : vécu de la dimension collective du traumatisme dans le contexte arménien
Authors: Kirakosyan Voskan
Published: September 2021

La guerre est une situation de réel traumatique qui entraîne une désorganisation, vécue dans la réalité extérieure et intérieure. Elle menace l’individu dans ses positions individuelles, familiales et sociétales, et suppose un effondrement de sens, de signification et de représentation. Récemment, une guerre a bouleversé l’enclave arménienne du Haut-Karabakh, théâtre de conflits et de bombardements, dont la menace s’est répandue rapidement dans toute l’Arménie. C’est tout un peuple qui s’est uni pour faire face à la menace, vivre les pertes et déplorer les morts collectivement. Cet article propose une réflexion sur les effets psychiques de la guerre dans sa dimension collective.
La solitude dans l’attente de la mort. Réflexions autour du travail psychologique mené avec des soldats blessés de la deuxième guerre du Haut-Karabagh
Authors: Mnatsakanyan Lilit
Published: September 2021

L’auteure fait part de son expérience récente de psychologue auprès des blessés de guerre dans le Haut-Karabakh. Elle présente des cas de jeunes soldats qui ne peuvent décrire encore les scènes qu’ils ont vécues, la douleur de l’amputation, la violence des bombes, l’inhumanité des armes utilisées, le deuil des copains morts.
L’écoute du/de la psychologue dans un service de soin somatique
Authors: Bergheimer Sophie , Lindenmeyer Cristina , Livia Tourinho Moreto Maria
Published: September 2021

Les pratiques de modification du corps humain (dans des visées réparatrices, esthétiques, identitaires, d’augmentation ou de performance) sont de plus en plus courantes. Cependant, ces pratiques ont des effets sur le rapport intime que le sujet entretient avec son corps ainsi que sa façon de se mettre en relation avec les autres. Depuis plusieurs années de nombreuses recherches s’intéressent à ces différentes techniques d’intervention sur le corps et à leurs effets subjectifs. Dans cet article, nous proposons de réfléchir à l’impact de ces interventions sur l’écoute du/de la psychologue travaillant dans les services où est généré ce type de démarche. Le cas Iiro, présenté par Winnicott (1970 ; 1972), sera analysé comme paradigme de l’écoute face aux patient.e.s ayant une déformation corporelle. Car cette écoute de la particularité de ce corps est parfois fascinante, d’autres fois dérangeante, mais surtout est une écoute qui revisite les temps plus précoces et originaux de l’habitation de la psyché dans le corps, et du corps dans la psyché. Cela dit, nous soutenons que parce que cette écoute s’inscrit comme une ouverture vers des zones primitives de la psyché, elle nécessite un travail conséquent sur le contre-transfert.
Angela Merkel, bilan d’une chancelière
Authors: Maurice Paul
Published: September 2021

À l’issue de quatre mandats, Angela Merkel s’apprête à quitter son poste de chancelière fédérale d’Allemagne. Retracer son itinéraire permet de comprendre sa manière de faire. Elle s’est trouvée contrainte au compromis politique et son mode de gouvernement est marqué de pragmatisme. De fait, on ne compte que peu de grandes réformes à son actif. Sa seule décision forte, l’accueil des migrants en 2015, a eu des conséquences politiques problématiques. Elle aura assuré la stabilité du pays, mais sa succession est délicate.
Les « communs négatifs »
Authors: Monnin Alexandre
Published: September 2021

Les communs désignent généralement des ressources partagées qui ont une utilité pour une communauté qui en prend soin, c’est-à-dire des effets positifs. La notion de « communs négatifs » s’attache aux problèmes soulevés par la gestion de certaines réalités dont les effets sont négatifs notamment dans le domaine environnemental : déchets, centrales nucléaires, mais aussi d’autres éléments dont nous allons hériter à l’avenir et dont il va bien falloir prendre soin. Plus les sociétés capitalistes se développent, plus elles perdent leur capacité à absorber ce qu’elles produisent en excès, reléguant ces déchets dans les zones les plus pauvres ou bien dans les profondeurs de la terre et des océans. À côté de cela, d’autres réalités, inassimilables à des déchets, nous privent de futur, de par leur simple existence. Comment politiser le traitement qu’il convient d’y apporter ? C’est à cette question qu’entend répondre le second pan de la réflexion ouverte par les communs négatifs.
Nos fondamentaux
Authors: Bahloul Kahina , Muller-Colard Marion , Sarthou-Lajus Nathalie
Published: September 2021

Une théologienne protestante et une théologienne musulmane, première imame en France, se rencontrent. Elles échangent sur les fondamentaux de leurs traditions religieuses respectives, à mobiliser pour lutter contre les fondamentalismes. Elles s’interrogent sur le sens de l’exercice du ministère religieux, sur les enjeux de la place des femmes et sur le commun que représentent les grands textes mystiques.
Les « Objets-reliques » et l’inquiétante étrangeté des images transgénérationnelles
Authors: Mokdad Zmitri Meriem
Published: September 2021

L’auteure désigne par « objets-reliques » ces objets matériels transmis de génération en génération. Elle les suppose incarner et susciter l’inquiétante étrangeté des images psychiques transgénérationnelles en même temps que détenir le potentiel de les transformer pour les mettre/remettre au service d’un processus de subjectivation fluide et désaliéné. En s’appuyant sur deux vignettes cliniques, l’auteure met en lumière ce travail de transformation à travers ce qu’elle désigne par le « fantasme prosopopéïque » et la « pulsion portraitiste ».
Numerical methods preserving multiple Hamiltonians for stochastic Poisson systems
Authors: Wang Lijin , Wang Pengjun , Cao Yanzhao
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we propose a class of numerical schemes for stochastic Poisson systems with multiple invariant Hamiltonians. The method is based on the average vector field discrete gradient and an orthogonal projection technique. The proposed schemes preserve all the invariant Hamiltonians of the stochastic Poisson systems simultaneously, with possibility of achieving high convergence orders in the meantime. We also prove that our numerical schemes preserve the Casimir functions of the systems under certain conditions. Numerical experiments verify the theoretical results and illustrate the effectiveness of our schemes.
A drift homotopy implicit particle filter method for nonlinear filtering problems
Authors: Li Xin , Bao Feng , Gallivan Kyle
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we develop a drift homotopy implicit particle filter method. The methodology of our approach is to adopt the concept of drift homotopy in the resampling procedure of the particle filter method for solving the nonlinear filtering problem, and we introduce an implicit particle filter method to improve the efficiency of the drift homotopy resampling procedure. Numerical experiments are carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of our drift homotopy implicit particle filter.
Uniqueness for meromorphic solutions of Schwarzian differential equation
Authors: Yao Dan-Gui ,   School of Mathematical Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510631, China, Huang Zhi-Bo , Zhang Ran-Ran ,   Department of Mathematics, Guangdong University of Education, Guangzhou, 510303, China
Published: September 2021

Let $ f $ be a meromorphic function, $ R $ be a nonconstant rational function and $ k $ be a positive integer. In this paper, we consider the Schwarzian differential equation of the form

   \begin{document}$ \begin{align*} \left[\frac{f'''}{f'}-\frac{3}{2}\left(\frac{f''}{f'}\right)^{2}\right]^{k} = R(z). \end{align*} $\end{document}

We investigate the uniqueness of meromorphic solutions of the above Schwarzian differential equation if the meromorphic solution $ f $ shares three values with any other meromorphic function.
Spatial decay estimates for the Fochheimer equations interfacing with a Darcy equations
Authors: Wang Ze ,   Department of Computer Science, Guangdong University of Finance, Yingfu Road, Guangzhou 510521, China, Zhang Yan , Shi Jincheng , Ouyang Baiping ,   Department of Public Infrastructure, Guangdong Teachers College of Foreign Language and Arts, Longdong East Road, Guangzhou 510521, China,   Department of Applied Mathematics, Guangzhou Huashang College, Huashang Road, Guangzhou 511300, China
Published: September 2021

Spatial decay estimates for the Fochheimer fluid interfacing with a Darcy flow in a semi-infinite pipe was studied. The exponential decay result can be obtained by integrating a first-order differential inequality. The result can be seen as the usage of Saint-Venant's principle for the interfacing fluids.
A prediction model of aquaculture water quality based on multiscale decomposition
Authors: Yang Huanhai ,   School of Computer Science and Technology, Shandong Technology and Business University, Yantai, China, Liu Shue ,   Co-innovation Center of Shandong Colleges and Universities: Future Intelligent Computing, Shandong Technology and Business University, Yantai, China,   Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
Published: September 2021

In the field of intensive aquaculture, the deterioration of water quality is one of the main factors restricting the normal growth of aquatic products. Predicting water quality in real time constitutes the theoretical basis for the evaluation, planning and intelligent regulation of the aquaculture environment. Based on the design principles of decomposition, recombination and integration, this paper constructs a multiscale aquaculture water quality prediction model. First, the complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN) method is used to decompose the different water quality variables at different time scales step by step to generate a series of intrinsic mode function (IMF) components with the same characteristic scale. Then, the sample entropy of each IMF component is calculated, the components with similar sample entropies are combined, and the original data are recombined into several subsequences through the above operations. In this paper, a prediction model based on a long short-term memory (LSTM) neural network is constructed to predict each recombination subsequence, and the Adam optimization algorithm is used to continuously update the weight of neural network to train and optimize the prediction performance. Finally, the predicted value of each subsequence is superimposed to predict the original water quality data. The dissolved oxygen and pH data of an aquaculture base were collected for prediction experiments, the results of which show that the proposed model has a high prediction accuracy and strong generalization performance.
The fish family Muraenidae: an ideal group for testing at small-scale the coherency of Macaronesia as a biogeographic unit, with the first report on separate fishery statistics
Authors: González José A. , Correia Sandra , Jiménez Sebastián , Monteiro Carlos A. , Delgado João , Pinho Mário R. , Lorenzo José M. , González-Lorenzo Gustavo
Published: September 2021

The present study was conceptualized to study the muraenid species (moray eels) occurring around the volcanic archipelagos of the Azores, Madeira, Selvagens, Canary and Cabo Verde islands (eastern-central Atlantic). The biogeographic patterns of these species were analysed and compared. We then hypothesized that this fish family is an ideal group for testing at small-scale the coherency of Macaronesia and its direct biogeographic units: i.e. the Azores, Webbnesia and Cabo Verde, as proposed in recent scientific literature. Additionally, this paper provides for the first time separate fishery statistics for this group in the region that were analysed to contrast the biogeographic results.
Comparison of techniques for counting prokaryotes in marine planktonic and biofilm samples
Authors: Ochi Agostini Vanessa , Terres Rodrigues Letícia , Macedo Alexandre José , Muxagata Erik
Published: September 2021

Though a large number of techniques are available for the study of aquatic bacteria, the aim of this study was to establish a technique for analysing free-living and biofilm prokaryotic cells through laboratory assays. In particular, we wished to analyse the efficiency of ultrasound to detach and disrupt biofilm, to obtain an efficient stain treatment for quantifying free-living and biofilm prokaryotes in flow cytometry (FC), and to compare epifluorescence microscopy (EFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and FC for quantifying free-living and biofilm prokaryotes#. Marine-grade plywood substrates were immersed in natural marine water that was conditioned for 12 days. At 6 and 12 days, water aliquots and substrates were removed to estimate free-living and biofilm prokaryote density. Ultrasound efficiently removed marine biofilm from substrates (up to 94%) without cell damage. FC analysis (unstained) reliably quantified marine plankton and young or mature biofilm prokaryotes compared with other staining (acridine orange, 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole, propidium iodide and green fluorescent nucleic acid), EFM or SEM techniques. FC and SEM achieved similar results, while a high variability was observed in the EFM technique. FC was faster and more precise than SEM because the count is not dependent on the observer.
Intra- and interspecific discrimination of Scorpaena species from the Aegean, Black, Mediterranean and Marmara seas
Authors: Yedier Serdar , Bostanci Derya
Published: September 2021

This study was conducted to discriminate five Scorpaena species and populations of each species according to morphometric characters. A total of 1865 fish specimens were collected from the eight locations in the four Turkish seas: Antalya, Balıkesir, Çanakkale, Hatay, İzmir, Marmara Ereğlisi, Ordu and Şile. In the study, 26 morphometric traits were measured for intra- and interspecific discrimination of five Scorpaena species. The data were subjected to analysis of variance, principal components analysis (PCA) and canonical discriminant analysis. As results of the PCA, 10 traits for S. maderensis and S. scrofa, 12 traits for S. elongata and 13 traits for S. notata and S. porcus were found to be important for intraspcific discrimination. The overall classification scores of intraspecific discrimination were determined as 94.6% for S. elongata, 90.5% for S. maderensis, 96.7% for S. notata, 96.5% for S. porcus and 92.2% for S. scrofa. The PCA indicated that 13 morphometric measurements among the 26 traits are important in the interspecific discrimination of five Scorpaena species. The cross-validated canonical discriminant analysis was correctly classified as 97.4% at the Scorpaena species level. The discrimination of correctly classified species ranged from 94.8% to 100%. Finally, we demonstrated that the morphometric characters examined in the present study can be used successfully in the intra- and interspecific discrimination of Scorpaena species from different habitats.
Conceptual Model Based on Normative Multi-Agent System for Supply Chain Integration of Brazilian Gypsum LPA
Authors: Clemente Thárcylla Rebecca Negreiros , Candido Aldênia Karla Barrêto
Published: September 2021

The Brazilian gypsum has one of the highest levels of recognized mineral qualities in the world. Companies that operate in this sector support major economy-driving industries such as civil construction, architecture, medicine, and agriculture and are an input for the manufacture of paints, phosphors, and insecticides, among others. Most of the companies that constitute this sector are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which require supply chain solutions to maintain competition in market share. Supply chain integration as a collaborative solution has become a necessary strategy for enhancing SMEs decision-making capability. This study proposes a conceptual model based on a normative multi-agent system approach that offers a dynamic view about supply chain integration for managers and other stakeholders. From this contribution, it is possible to obtain constant information flow among stakeholders and build an effective strategic context for SMEs in the Brazilian Gypsum Local Productive Arrangement (LPA).
Required Project Designers' Attributes as Perceived by Male and Female Engineers
Authors: Kritikos Petros , Papadimitriou Vasso , Aretoulis Georgios N.
Published: September 2021

Project designer (PD) personality defines the way PDs cooperate with the project team, make decisions, and influence the project performance. The current research focused on identifying attributes associated with successful PDs as considered by male and female project engineers. In this context, a five-year questionnaire survey collected 423 responses from Greek engineers. The survey recorded data regarding the respondents and the scores assigned to the required PDs attributes. The methodological approach included an SPSS database, followed by descriptive statistics analysis, independent sample t-test, and correlation analysis. It became obvious that gender influences the assessment and selection of desired PD personality characteristics. Female engineers tend to assign the highest Likert scale-based scores, whereas male respondents tend to assign lower scores. The most highly ranked abilities included “responsibility,” “reliability,” and “obedience to rules.” The findings facilitate the implementation of multi-criteria decision-making tools for efficient project teams.
Cost-effectiveness of Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty versus penetrating keratoplasty in patients with endothelial dysfunction in India
Authors: Shah Pooja , Mukhija Ritika , Gupta Noopur , Vanathi M , Tandon Radhika
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to compare the cost-effectiveness and perform cost-utility analysis of Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) vs. penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in Indian population.

Methods:

This was an institutional, ambispective, observational study. Patients who underwent PK or DSAEK for endothelial dysfunction were included and followed up for 2 years; those with other ocular comorbidities were excluded. The analysis was performed from the patient’s perspective receiving subsidized treatment at a tertiary care hospital. Detailed history, ophthalmic examination, total expenditure by patient, and clinical outcomes were recorded. The main outcome measures were best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), graft survival (Kaplan–Meier survival estimates), incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER), and incremental cost-utility ratio (ICUR). Utility values were based on quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) associated with visual acuity outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software package, version 12.1; a value of P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

A total of 120 patients (PK: 60, DSAEK: 60) were included. At 2 years, for a similar logMAR BSCVA, [PK (0.32 ± 0.02), DSAEK (0.25 ± 0.02); P = 0.078], the overall cost for PK (13511.1 ± 803.3 INR) was significantly more than DSAEK (11092.9 ± 492.1 INR) (difference = 1952.6 INR; P = 0.01). ICER of DSAEK relative to PK was –39,052 INR for improvement in 1 logMAR unit BSCVA. ICUR of DSAEK relative to PK was –1,95,260 INR for improvement in 1 QALY.

Conclusion:

DSAEK was more cost-effective than PK in patients with endothelial dysfunction at 2 years.
Emergency canthotomy and cantholysis - Factors affecting confidence among ophthalmic trainees in the United Kingdom
Authors: Lim Christina S , Malick Huzaifa , Berry-Brincat Antonella
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

Retrobulbar hemorrhage from trauma is the most common cause of orbital compartment syndrome. Emergency canthotomy and cantholysis is a vision-saving procedure. We sought to identify confidence among ophthalmic trainees in this procedure as well as any relevant factors that have any impact.

Methods:

An online, confidential anonymous questionnaire was distributed to ophthalmology training groups in the UK. Questions explored the participant’s stage of training and grade and confidence in this area as well as their ophthalmic experience in terms of training courses attended and elective versions of the procedure performed.

Results:

We received 45 completed responses from the survey. 20/23 (87%) of junior trainees had not performed an emergency canthotomy/cantholysis to date, whereas 19/22 (86%) of senior trainees had performed between 1 and 5 such procedures. 15/23 (65%) of junior trainees had not performed an elective canthotomy compared to only 3/22 (14%) of the senior trainees. We found that the main factors that were associated with increased confidence level were the higher numbers of emergency and elective cases performed, training courses, and previous oculoplastic surgery rotation (P = 0.0001).

Conclusion:

From our survey, we found low confidence levels among junior trainees due to limited exposure. Confidence appeared to be linked to both elective and emergency surgical experience of the procedure as well as training course and having worked in an oculoplastic surgery firm. Changes to training portfolio requirements for junior trainees to incorporate early oculoplastic experience may help to achieve this on a national scale.
Ten-year outcome of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatment for neovascular age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Upasani Deepa , Dhingra Narendra
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to report the 10-year visual outcome in eyes treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and to assess the impact of switching treatment as part of routine clinical care.

Methods:

Electronic records of treatment-naïve eyes initiated on intravitreal ranibizumab between January and December 2009 were accessed. The primary outcome measured was the change in visual acuity (VA) in Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters. The frequency and reasons for treatment discontinuation during each year of follow-up and the impact of switching from ranibizumab to aflibercept were some of the secondary outcomes.

Results:

Of the 223 eyes (203 patients), 60 eyes completed 10 years of continuous follow-up. After a mean follow-up of 121.4 months, VA declined by 5.6 letters (95% confidence interval [CI] –0.25 to –11.1, P = 0.04). Final VA of ≥70 letters was seen in 20% of eyes and 35% had VA ≤ 35 letters. VA gain of ≥10 letters was seen in 23% and loss of ≥10 letters was seen in 40% of the eyes. Twenty-nine eyes remained on ranibizumab monotherapy and 31 switched to aflibercept. Switched eyes showed a visual decline of 7.1 letters (5.5 letters in monotherapy eyes, P = 0.32) and received a significantly higher number of injections (39.6 ± 9.9 vs. 24.4 ± 13.1, P < 0.0001). Patients discontinuing treatment were older and had lower baseline vision compared to completers.

Conclusion:

VA declined below the baseline after 10 years of follow-up and switching did not have any effect on the final visual outcome.
Ocular Surface Disease Index© and the five-item dry eye questionnaire: A comparison in Indian patients with dry eye disease
Authors: Chatterjee Samrat , Agrawal Deepshikha , Chaturvedi Pravda
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

To compare the suitability of the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) and the 5-item Dry Eye Questionnaire (DEQ-5) in Indian patients with dry eyes.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study evaluated the OSDI and DEQ-5 in patients with tear film abnormalities. Tear film breakup time, tear film height, Schirmer’s I, lissamine green staining, and meibomian gland expressibility were performed on each patient.

Results:

There were 101 patients with symptoms and/or signs of tear film abnormality. Both OSDI and DEQ-5 questionnaires significantly correlated (ρ = 0.566, P < 0.0001) with each other. The OSDI questionnaire showed a good correlation with all dry eye tests, whereas the DEQ-5 correlated significantly only with the tear film breakup time and the lissamine green score. None of the questionnaires correlated with meibomian gland expressibility. The Bland–Altman analysis revealed a marginal bias (−0.01 unit) for DEQ-5. The DEQ-5 scored higher in patients with mild symptoms. While 101 (100%) patients answered all the questions in the DEQ-5, only 19 (18.8%) patients answered all the questions in the OSDI questionnaire. The least responses were recorded in the vision-function-related and environmental trigger subscales of the OSDI.

Conclusion:

The OSDI and DEQ-5 scores showed a moderate correlation. The OSDI questionnaire correlated with a higher number of dry eye tests than the DEQ-5. The large number of skipped questions in the vision-function-related and environmental trigger subscales of the OSDI suggests that the questionnaire is not adequately adapted to the Indian population. Patients with a negative OSDI score should be reassessed with the DEQ-5 to exclude symptom positivity.
Multifocal electroretinography-assisted anatomical and functional evaluation of subthreshold green laser in acute central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Goel Neha , Mehta Aanchal , Gupta A K
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

To compare observation versus subthreshold green laser (STL) in acute central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) in terms of anatomical and functional outcomes.

Methods:

Prospective randomized interventional study. 30 eyes with the first episode of acute CSC underwent complete ophthalmologic examination, measurement of best-corrected Snellen visual acuity (BCVA), contrast sensitivity (CS), fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA), spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), and multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) at baseline. Patients were randomized equally to group A (observation) or group B (STL using 532 nm wavelength applied to the leakage point). Outcome measures included BCVA, CS, central foveal thickness (CFT), and mean macular thickness (MMT) on SD-OCT and P1 amplitude and implicit time (IT) on mfERG. Patients were followed up for 6 months.

Results:

Mean BCVA was comparable between the two groups on follow up; however, mean CS was significantly higher in group B at 6 months (P = 0.032). CFT was significantly lower in group B at 1 month (P = 0.001) and 3 months (P = 0.049); however, this difference was not maintained at 6 months (P = 0.265). P1 amplitude and IT in all 5 rings were comparable between the two groups at baseline. On follow up, P1 amplitude of ring 1 became significantly higher in group B at 3 months (P = 0.036) and 6 months (P = 0.022).

Conclusion:

Immediate treatment of acute CSC with STL, as compared to conservative management, leads to more rapid resolution on SD-OCT and superior functional outcomes as evidenced by CS and mfERG.
Masked comparison of trypan blue stain and potassium hydroxide with calcofluor white stain in the microscopic examination of corneal scrapings for the diagnosis of microbial keratitis
Authors: Rathi Varsha M , Murthy Somasheila I , Mitra Sanchita , Yamjala Balakrishna , Mohamed Ashik , Sharma Savitri
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

To evaluate the efficacy of trypan blue in direct microscopic examination of corneal scrapings in the diagnosis of non-viral microbial keratitis.

Methods:

In a prospective, interventional, masked study, 82 consecutive patients were investigated. Direct microscopic examination of the corneal scrapings involved three smears stained with potassium hydroxide with calcofluor white (KOH + CFW), Gram stain (not analyzed), and trypan blue stain and culture for bacteria, fungus, and Acanthamoeba. While KOH + CFW stained slides were examined under a fluorescence microscope, trypan blue-stained slides were examined by two microbiologists (masked to KOH + CFW and culture results) under normal light microscopy. Thirty samples were reexamined for interobserver and intraobserver variability.

Results:

Out of 82 samples, fungal/fungus-like elements were seen in 48 (58.5%) in KOH + CFW and 38 (46.3%) in trypan blue stain. One microsporidial case, detected in KOH + CFW was negative in trypan blue stain (culture not done). Fungal growth was positive in 23 out of 81 (28.3%) cases cultured, single bacterial species in 18 (22.2%), Pythium insidiosum in three, mixed bacteria and fungus/Pythium in 7 (8.6%), Acanthamoeba in none and 30 (37.0%) samples were sterile. With culture as gold standard, the respective sensitivity (84.9%, 75.7%) and specificity (90.9%, 68.2%) of KOH + CFW stain and trypan blue stain were comparable (p = 0.16, P = 0.06). The interobserver linear weighted kappa score between the two microbiologists was 1.00 while it was 0.86 for intraobserver agreement.

Conclusion:

Trypan blue stain, an easily available dye to ophthalmologists, is highly efficacious in the diagnosis of fungal keratitis.
Optimizing lens constants specifically for short eyes: Is it essential?
Authors: Shrivastava Ankur K , Nayak Swatishree , Mahobia Ashish , Anto Mary , Kacher Rajaram , Kumar Ajay
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

Optimization of lens constants is a critically important step that improves refractive outcomes significantly. Whether lens constants optimized for the entire range of axial length would perform equally well in short eyes is still a matter of debate. The aim of this study was to analyze whether lens constants need to be optimized specifically for short eyes.

Methods:

This retrospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Central India. Eighty-six eyes of eighty-six patients were included. Optical biometry with IOLMaster 500 was done in all cases and lens constants were optimized using built-in software. Barrett Universal II, Haigis, Hill-RBF, Hoffer Q, Holladay 1, and SRK/T formulae were compared using optimized constants. Mean absolute error, median absolute error (MedAE), and percentage of eyes within ±0.25, ±0.50, ±1.00, and ±2.00 diopter of the predicted refraction, of each formula were analyzed using manufacturer’s, ULIB, and optimized lens constants. MedAE was compared across various constants used by Wilcoxon signed-rank test and among optimized constants by Friedman’s test. Cochran’s Q test compared the percentage of eyes within ± 0.25, ±0.50, ±1.00, and ± 2.00 diopter of the predicted refraction. A value of P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Optimized constant of Haigis had significantly lower MedAE (P < 0.00001) as compared to manufacturers. However, there was no statistically significant difference between ULIB and optimized constants. Postoptimization, there was no statistically significant difference among all formulae.

Conclusion:

Optimizing lens constants specifically for short eyes gives no added advantage over those optimized for the entire range of axial length.
Online survey on practice patterns in the treatment of corneal ulcer during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Raj Amit , Singh Prabhakar , Chaudhary Neha
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

To evaluate practice patterns in the treatment of corneal ulcer by ophthalmologists during COVID-19 pandemic in the Indian subcontinent.

Methods:

This was an online questionnaire-based survey circulated via google form to reach ophthalmologists practising cornea as a subspeciality between January 4, 2021 and February 3, 2021. The survey comprised of 21 questions to evaluate the prevailing practice patterns in corneal ulcer management during pandemic.

Results:

In total, 39.3% of government ophthalmology clinics and 41.5% of private ophthalmology clinics reported an average delay of 2 weeks in presenting to the hospital after the onset of symptoms. Totally, 60.5% of participants reported that the clinical outcomes of infectious keratitis cases during the COVID-19 pandemic were worse than before. In total, 61.3 and 41.1% of ophthalmologists in private and government sectors, respectively, were routinely performing corneal scrapings for corneal ulcer patients. The procedures were performed with adequate protective measures. In total, 68.5% participants mentioned decreased availability of donor cornea during the pandemic, and 44.4% reported compromised cornea practice due to the limited availability of essentials (tissue adhesives, BCLs, medications, etc.). A statistically significant difference of effect of pandemic on cost of services was noted between government and private hospitals. In total, 51% participants from private hospitals reported hike in outpatient department services and surgical charges, and 78.6% from government hospitals mentioned no hike in the charges (P value <0.001).

Conclusion:

This study provides an overview on modified strategies in corneal ulcer management during pandemic without compromising patient safety and quality care.
Mycosis fungoides and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Youssef Randa , Hay Rania Abdel , Aboulghate Ahmed , Ibrahim Nahed , Hegazy Amira , Sayed Khadiga S.
Published: September 2021

Background

Emerging evidence now suggests an association between Mycosis fungoides (MF) and metabolic risk factors.

Objective

To investigate a possible association between MF and metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Patients and methods

This study was designed as an observational, case-control study. It included thirty MF patients and 39 controls who were assessed for body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol, high and low density lipoproteins, serum leptin level and insulin resistance.

Results

Our results revealed that serum leptin level (P=0.029), TG (P=0.004), cholesterol (P=0.001) and LDL (P=0.019), waist circumference in males (P<0.003), hypertension (P=0.039) and frequency of metabolic syndrome (P=0.042), are statistically significantly higher in MF patients than controls.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that patients with MF may be at higher risk for metabolic syndrome. Concurrently, screening for metabolic syndrome is recommended for all MF cases for early detection of cardiovascular risk.
Annular prurigo pigmentosa with sensory dysthesia with ketogenic diet
Authors: Mostafa Pakinam I.N.
Published: September 2021

Prurigo Pigmentosa is a rare inflammatory dermatosis, first described in Japan in 1971. It has been recently reported to occur in patients on restrictive diets. In severe nutritional deficiencies, neuropathies have been reported. This report describes a rare case of both prurigo pigmentosa with sensory dysesthesia while following a ketogenic diet.
Evaluation of phosphodiesterase 4 enzyme levels in lesional skin and serum of vitiligo patients
Authors: Nagui Noha , Gaballah Basma , Rashed Laila , Sany Iman
Published: September 2021

Background

Vitiligo is the most commonly acquired depigmenting disorder. It has a negative psychological impact on affected individuals. The pathogenesis of vitiligo is complex and not yet fully revealed. Phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors are widely used in many medical diseases and dermatological conditions, for example, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Recently, a case report showed that Apremilast (PDE4 inhibitor) resulted in significant repigmentation in a female patient with recalcitrant vitiligo.

Objective

To evaluate PDE4 levels in the tissues and serum of vitiligo patients and to compare them to the levels of controls to assess its role in the pathogenesis of the disease.

Patients and methods

In this case-control study, skin biopsies of vitiliginous lesions and blood samples were taken from 20 vitiligo patients and 20 controls. The PDE4 enzyme level was measured in both skin and serum samples.

Results

PDE4 enzyme levels in both the skin and serum of vitiligo patients were significantly higher than those in controls. PDE4 enzyme tissue levels were significantly higher than serum levels of both groups (patients and controls). A significant positive correlation was found between PDE4 tissue and serum levels of vitiligo patients.

Conclusion

High PDE4 levels in tissue and serum of vitiligo patients compared with controls suggest that it may contribute to the pathogenesis of vitiligo. Hence, PDE4 inhibitors may be a promising therapeutic modality of this disease.
Hypertrophic striae gravidarum as an eruptive dermatosis of pregnancy
Authors: Valle Alba L. , López Daniel F. , Velázquez Alba S. , Donoso Carmen G.
Published: September 2021

The authors present the unusual case of a 21-year-old woman, who, during the fourth month of her first pregnancy, developed asymptomatic lesions on abdominal distension striae. On physical examination, she presented erythematous–violaceous nodules, of a fibrous consistency, superimposed on atrophic whitish linear plaques along the abdomen, flanks, and lumbar region. A skin biopsy was performed that confirmed the clinical suspicion of hypertrophic scars on striae distensae. Over the biopsy wound, a keloid scar also developed. The authors have found previous case reports of queloid recurrence during pregnancy, but none about hypertrophic scars on stretch marks of pregnancy. However, it appears that the relationship between hormonal factors during pregnancy and the tendency toward abnormal scarring is well established.
Chronic telogen effluvium in women
Authors: Alizadeh Narges , Rafiei Rana , Darjani Abbas , Eftekhari Hojat , Nejad Kaveh Gharaei , Rafiei Elahe , Vishkaei Maryam Sadegh
Published: September 2021

Background

Chronic telogen effluvium (CTE) is a form of diffuse hair loss in middle-aged women in whom telogen hair loss continues more than 6 months without obvious etiology. Disturbance in growth hair cycle may result in increased hairs in the telogen phase. Micronutrient deficiency, such as iron, zinc, and vitamin D, has been incriminated in acute telogen effluvium but its role in chronic phases is challenging.

Objective

To measure the levels of serum ferritin, zinc, and 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25OH vitamin D) in females with CTE and controls to verify their role in hair-loss pathogenesis.

Patients and methods

A case–control study was conducted on 166 female participants: 83 patients with CTE and 83 age-matched healthy controls. Blood samples were taken from all participants for evaluation of serum ferritin, zinc, and 25OH vitamin D levels. Ferritin and 25OH vitamin D levels were measured with chemiluminescence method and zinc level was measured with colorimetric method. The study was done during 6 months (autumn and winter).

Results

There was no significant difference in serum ferritin, zinc, and 25OH vitamin D levels in two groups. The median of ferritin level was suboptimal in both groups (≤40 μg/l). Interestingly, zinc and 25OH vitamin D levels in healthy participants were lower than patients with CTE, but with considering the significance level of 0.01, this difference was not significant. The frequency of suboptimal levels of ferritin, 25OH vitamin D, and zinc was not significantly different in two groups.

Conclusion

We found no significant difference in ferritin, 25OH vitamin D, and zinc levels in two groups, but the role of these micronutrients in CTE could not be ignored. It seems that suboptimal levels of ferritin and 25OH vitamin D in women are common and may have led this non significant difference.
Organizing Pneumonia as a Presentation of Connective Tissue Disorders
Authors: Bagrecha Mahavir S. , Dole Sachinkumar S. , Sahasrabudhe Tushar R. , Barthwal M. S.
Published: September 2021

Organizing pneumonia (OP) is a clinical, radiological, and histological entity that is classified under the group of interstitial lung diseases. The diagnosis of OP is based on a characteristic histological pattern in the presence of certain clinical and radiological features. We present four cases of OP who presented with respiratory complaints of several weeks duration. Skin lesions typical of underlying connective tissue disorders were observed in three patients, and these were confirmed on biopsy. The diagnosis of OP was confirmed with the computed tomography scan thorax of all cases and additionally on histopathology of pulmonary lesions in two cases. All of these patients responded well to steroids, but one patient died due to respiratory failure.
The role of high-resolution computerized tomography as a diagnostic tool in the evaluation and planning of management of patients with chronic otitis media
Authors: Mitra Monali , Thakare Priti Ashok , Monteiro Berton Craig , Amle Dnyanesh B.
Published: September 2021

Context:

Chronic otitis media (COM), a major cause of hearing impairment and its associated morbidity and mortality can be avoided with proper diagnosis and planned management. High-resolution computerized tomography (HRCT) is accessible and possesses role in the detection of COM.

Aims:

This study aims to evaluate the role of HRCT as a diagnostic tool in the evaluation and planning of management of patients with COM.

Settings and Design:

Prospective observational study.

Subjects and Methods:

The study included 100 subjects presenting with COM planned for detailed otorhinolaryngological and otoscopic examination, pure tone audiomentry, non-contrast HRCT of bilateral temporal bones and were exposed to initial medical management of symptoms and surgical management. Statistical
Analysis
Used: Data were expressed as percentage and mean ± standard deviation Kolmogorov–Smirnov analysis was performed for checking linearity of the data. Fischer's exact test or Chi-square test was used to analyze the significance of the difference between frequency distribution of the data.

Results:

For soft tissue attenuation, HRCT was 100% sensitive and specific for the presence of soft tissue mass. HRCT found to be 100% accurate in predicting cholesteatoma presence and was found to be sensitive in the range of 83.3%–100% and specific in range 87.04%–100%. For bony erosion, HRCT was found to be fairly accurate. These comparisons were found to be highly significant with P< 0.0001.

Conclusions:

HRCT of the temporal bone in subjects with COM can be a gold standard tool for diagnosis, surgical interventions, and follow-up.
Leadership Style, Business Information Use and Corporate Social Responsibility Practice in Credit Direct Limited Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Akintunde Bolu E. , Haliso Yacob , Okoro Zachariah Obinna
Published: September 2021

A survey research design was used for this study. The population comprised Two hundred and fifty-six (256) staff of Credit Direct Limited, Lagos State. Total enumeration was used. A self-designed structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient was used to test the reliability of the research instrument. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that both leadership style and business information use have positive influence on corporate social responsibility practice in Credit Direct Limited, Lagos State (R2 = H3: R = .253; R2 = .064; Adjusted-R2 = .056; F (2, 8.631); Sig. = 0.000). the level of corporate social responsibility practice is high, for leadership style, transformational leadership was highly used and finally business information was highly used. The study concluded that corporate social responsibility practice in the organization will be enhanced if there is a significant improvement in her leadership style and business information use. The study recommended that the management of credit direct limited, Lagos state should improve their level of corporate social responsibility through adequate utilization of business information available to them, the leadership style that encourages CSR practice should be adopted and they should also improve on their corporate philanthropy which will enhance the image of the organization.
Recruitment and Employee Training and Organisational Resilience in Kenyan Hotels
Authors: Njunguna Peter Kibe , Maingi Shem , Kiria Sisinio
Published: September 2021

This study sought to determine the role of human resource management practices in developing organizational resilience in star-rated hotels within Nairobi County, Kenya. Specifically, the study sought to assess the role of recruitment and employee training in developing organizational resilience. An embedded mixed research design was adopted. The study targeted 121 managers in star-rated hotels within the Nairobi region obtained through stratification sampling where questionnaires and interviews were conducted. A pre-test was done to test the research instrument for reliability and validity. Regression analysis findings proved a positive and significant effect between, recruitment and selection, training and organization resilience. Correlation analysis findings established that there were moderate to strong relationships between the study variables. Overall, Analysis of Variance showed that selected human resource management practices had a significant role in developing hotels’ organizational resilience. The study brought perspective on the risks and ways of developing resilient frameworks to guarantee business resilience. The findings of this study may be useful in developing hospitality resilience models for a local context.