bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
L’histoire de l’intercompréhension italo-romane et le manuscrit Plut. 90 inf. 27 de la bibliothèque Laurentienne de Florence
Authors: Carlucci Alessandro
Published: February 2024

À la fin du Moyen Âge et au début de l’époque moderne, les habitants d’Italie parlaient des langues issues du latin, que les spécialistes d’aujourd’hui appellent « variétés italo-romanes » (elles sont aussi appelées « vulgaires » quand on parle de la période courant jusqu’au XVe siècle, et « dialectes » quand on parle des époques plus récentes). L’italien n’était connu que par une partie très faible de la population, sa diffusion étant limitée à l’écrit (surtout de type littéraire). En raison de cette situation linguistique singulière, l’Italie offre un cas particulièrement intéressant pour l’étude historique de la compréhension mutuelle entre des langues apparentées. Cet article revient sur les obstacles à l’intercompréhension (que les experts d’histoire linguistique italienne ont parfois considérée comme majeurs, voire insurmontables) et se concentre ensuite sur la manière dont certains locuteurs parvenaient à les surmonter.
Diversité floristique et caractérisation structurale des formations ligneuses des collines dans le canton d'Ataloté au Nord-Togo
Authors: Akame Laounta
Published: February 2024

Afin de caractériser la végétation ligneuse des collines du Nord-Togo, des investigations floristiques ont été menées dans le canton d'Ataloté (commune de Kéran 2). L'approche méthodologique a consisté en l'installation de 38 placettes (50 m sur 20 m) le long de transects allant du sommet des collines au bas des versants. Sur ces placettes, toutes les espèces ligneuses ont été recensées et tous les individus dont le diamètre à hauteur de poitrine (DBH ‒ à 1,30 m) est égal ou supérieur à 10 cm ont fait l'objet de mesures dendrométriques. Les données floristiques obtenues ont été traitées par les techniques d'analyse multivariée, notamment la classification hiérarchique ascendante (CAH) et la loi de Weibull. Les résultats révèlent une végétation ligneuse riche de 132 espèces réparties en 93 genres et 43 familles dont les plus importantes sont les Combretaceae (10,6 % des espèces), les Rubiaceae (8,3 %), les Mimosaceae (6,8 %) et les Moraceae (6,8 %). Cette végétation se répartit entre quatre types de formations ligneuses aux caractéristiques floristiques et structurales bien différentes. La structure en classes de diamètre révèle que ces formations ligneuses sont dominées par des individus de faible diamètre. Cette végétation est refuge d'espèces végétales en danger inscrites sur la liste rouge de l'UICN et de certaines espèces devenues rares dans les plaines environnantes. Cette étude fournit donc une base de données utile à la gestion, à la conservation et à l'aménagement de cette végétation spécifique des forêts communautaires des collines.
Selection of Inhibitor and Recent Advances in Enhancing Corrosion Prevention
Authors: Asmara Yuli Panca , Herlina Firda , Sutjipto Agus Geter Edy
Published: February 2024

Corrosion inhibitors are substances that protect metal surfaces by forming a protective film to prevent metallic materials in contact with corrosive environments. Inhibitors are created with capability to adsorb onto the metal surface, creating a barrier film, or neutralizing the detrimental effects of corrosive substances. Their performance are evaluated based on the ability in reducing corrosion rate. Traditionally, corrosion inhibitors made of chemical synthetic compounds. But as synthetic inhibitors have environmental impact, researchers are starting to explore compound alternatives. Currently, inhibitor technologies have demonstrated a remarkable growth in performance marked by the discovery of new types of inhibitors. Ongoing research are focusing on self-healing inhibitor, eco-friendly inhibitor, and nanostructured compounds inhibitors. This paper will comprehensively address the current challenges of advanced corrosion inhibitors. From the investigation, it has been noticed that application of innovative technologies has led to a transformative impact in producing with significant enhancement in their overall performance capabilities.
The Effectiveness of Na2CrO4 to Inhibit Corrosion Rate of a A106 Grade Pipe in the Furnace Circulating Cooling Water with the Weight Loss Method on Pipe Lifetime Determining
Authors: Palupi Ika Fitriani J , Ma'wa Ainun
Published: February 2024

Pipes from industrial process flow diagrams have a predictable risk of failure or damage, so that periodic inspections are carried out. Corrosion that occurs in the pipe can cause a risk of leakage or blockage of the pipe flow which can be fatal to the fluid distribution process. This damage can be anticipated by inhibitors adding and predicting the corrosion rate. This research was conducted to determine the effective concentration of Na2CrO4 inhibitor to inhibit the corrosion rate and predict the lifetime of the furnace cooling water circulation pipe using the weight loss method. Na2CrO4 inhibitor is a type of anodic inhibitor that works by passively the anode by inhibiting corrosion on a whole metal surface. The study begins with the preparation stage, cutting the pipe into specimens of a certain size, smoothing the surface and weighing the initial weight. The testing phase was carried out by immersing the specimens at various times of 120 h, 240 h and 360 h with Na2CrO4 inhibitor variations concentration was 0%; 0,3%; 0,6%; and 0,9%. The corrosion rate was calculated by re-weighing the specimen after the immersion process. The results showed that the most effective inhibitor concentration was 0.6% with a corrosion rate of 0.3021 mmpy and the Remaining Service Lifetime (RSL) was 9.399 years.
Nanocrystallization Behaviour of Amorphous Co67Fe4Cr7Si8B14 Alloy
Authors: Nykyruy Yulia , Mudry Stepan , Kulyk Yuriy , Shtablavyi Ihor
Published: February 2024

The investigation addresses the structure of a Co-based alloy and its magnetic properties. The major applications of these materials are in the development of different sensors, which require materials with high permeability. The structure evolution processes need to be explored to clarify the main parameters determining the time-temperature stability. In the present paper, a nanocrystallization behavior of Co67Fe4Cr7Si8B14 amorphous alloy manufactured in the form of a ribbon was studied using X-ray diffraction and sample vibromagnetometry methods. The structure evolution induced by the 30min isothermal annealing at a temperature range of 450 - 700 °C was studied by the X-ray diffraction method, and crystallization with hcp-Co, fcc-Co, and Co2B nanophases was revealed depending on the annealing temperature. According to thermomagnetic measurements, the nanocrystallization process corresponds to a three-stage crystallization model. The crystallization onset temperature of the amorphous alloy was observed to be to equal540 °C. The Curie point and saturation magnetization of the as-quenched alloy were defined as 305 °C and 76 Am2/kg, respectively.
Metal Coatings Derived from Modified Silica as Anti-Corrosion
Authors: Silviana Silviana , Lukmilayani Candra
Published: February 2024

Metal is widely used in various industrial fields such as transportation because of its physical and mechanical strength. However, during its utilization, metal materials are often damaged by corrosion due to chemical reactions between the metal surface and the surrounding environment. Coating is one way to prevent corrosion by isolating metal surfaces from the environment. Conventional anti-corrosion coatings generally use chromate and phosphate-based materials. However, this material has been banned in some countries because it is toxic to the environment. Meanwhile, other methods with the addition of more active metals such as magnesium are considered unaffordable. Therefore, the researchers developed alternative materials that are environmentally friendly and reduce costs by using metal oxide-based materials such as Silicon dioxide (SiO2). The advantage of SiO2 is that it is chemically stable and harmless. SiO2 modification produces hydrophobic properties which increase corrosion resistance. One of the methods to make SiO2 is sol-gel method. The advantages of sol-gel method are simple, affordable, capable of forming a film for attaching chemical properties, flexible for incorporation with other compounds and the coating can be applied in several ways, such as dip coating, spray coating, electrophoretic deposition (EPD), etc. As an anti-corrosion coating, products can be tested for their resistance by analyzing the corrosion rate. This paper reviews silica-based metal coatings as anti-corrosion. The scope of the discussion in this paper is the mechanism, fabrication route, application technique, characterization, and analysis of anti-corrosion ability by studying the corrosion rate of anti-corrosion silica-based coating products for metal substrates.
Management of acute-phase burn patients in emergency department
Authors: Busti Chiara , Marchetti Roberto , Monti Manuel
Published: February 2024

In this review, we discuss the management of burn patients in the emergency room. Burn injury is characterized by a hypermetabolic response with physiological, catabolic and immune effects. The treatment of burns requires a multidisciplinary approach and a proper management able to reduce both the damage and the risk of infections. The management of a burn patient begins with a primary evaluation: i) maintaining a high index of suspicion for the presence of airway compromise following smoke inhalation and secondary to burn edema; ii) identifying and managing associated mechanical injuries; maintaining hemodynamic normality with volume resuscitation; iii) controlling temperature; iv) removing the patient from the injurious environment. Secondary evaluation holds fundamental importance and is carried out through the head-to-foot objective examination and diagnostic investigations as well as the wound dressing. Clinicians also must take measures to prevent and treat the potential complications of specific burn injuries (e.g., compartment syndromes). The role of this article is to highlight some quick and effective guidelines for the management of burn patients in the early stages, within the emergency room, before the transfer to the burn unit.
The TUM Senior Excellence Faculty of the Technical University of Munich – A 15-Year Success Story
Authors: Molls Michael , Herbst-Gaebel Birgit , Eberspächer Jörg , Auernhammer Herrmann , Färber Georg , Mainzer Klaus , Petry Winfried , Petry Winfried , Reichwald Ralf , Reiss Kristina , Wilderer Peter , Hofmann Thomas F.
Published: February 2024

The article presents the unique and highly interdisciplinary initiative "TUM Senior Excellence Faculty (SEF)" of the Technical University of Munich (TUM). At TUM, selected outstanding professors are awarded the honorary title "TUM Emeritus of Excellence (EoE)" on retirement. The EoE sustain their commitment to their alma mater and support essential tasks of the university. Here, we provide deeper insight into the idea of the SEF and its responsibility to society and outline the mission, concept, organization, and activities of individual EoE. We offer a glimpse at their work by example of their interdisciplinary group initiative TUM Forum Sustainability. Finally, we argue that this strategic project should serve as a model for other universities.
Acinetobacter baumannii, antibiotic resistance, SARS-CoV-2.
Authors: Bovo Rebecca , Leli Christian , Roveta Annalisa , Penpa Serena , Maconi Antonio , Rocchetti Andrea
Published: February 2024

Aims: 2020 was marked by the emergence of SARS-CoV-2. The dramatic growth of hospitalized patients infected by SARS-CoV-2 may have led to an increase in secondary infections and/or healthcare-associated infections. It is evident that the need for high-spectrum antibiotic therapy in patients with severe illness contributed to the spread of Multi Drug Resistant (MDR) bacteria. The aim of this work was to evaluate the trend of Acinetobacter baumannii infections during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in Santi Antonio e Biagio and Cesare Arrigo Hospital in Alessandria. Materials and Methods: all the isolates of A. baumannii and positive swabs for SARS-CoV-2 detected in hospitalized patients were included in the analysis. Results: between November 2020 and March 2021, an increase of the A. baumannii isolation occurred compared to the period November 2019 - March 2020, especially in the Intensive Care Units. A reduction of the A. baumannii isolation from November 2021 to March 2022 was observed. Conclusions: the differences observed are probably due to the administration of vaccines and consequently to the lower severity of COVID-19 cliniacl pictures.
Evaluation of Effectiveness of Atorvastatin in Treating Chronic Subdural Hematoma not Requiring Surgery: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Wang Bo , Li Kangqi , Guo Chenyu , Wang Zhe , Zhu Weiwei , Lu Congxiao
Published: February 2024

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a chronic space-occupying lesion formed by blood accumulation between the arachnoid membrane and the dura mater. Atorvastatin is of increasing clinical interest for CSDH. We performed a meta-analysis of published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and used objective data as the primary outcomes to provide an evidence-based analysis of the efficacy of atorvastatin for CSDH treatment. Databases of MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Cqvip database (CQVIP), and Wanfang database were systematically searched for RCTs reporting the use of atorvastatin for CSDH treatment. Odds ratio (OR), standard mean difference (SMD), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used as summary statistics. I-square (I
2) test was performed to assess the impact of study heterogeneity on the results of the meta-analysis. Nine relevant RCTs with 611 patients were identified for inclusion in this meta-analysis. Compared to controls, atorvastatin treatment had a significantly higher effectiveness (OR: 7.41, 95% CI: 3.32-16.52, P < 0.00001, I
2 = 0%), lower hematoma volume (SMD: −0.46. 95% CI: −0.71 to −0.20, P = 0.0005, I
2 = 0%), higher activities of daily living-Barthel Index (ADL-BI) (SMD: 2.07, 95% CI: 1.06-3.09, P < 0.0001, I
2 = 92%), and smaller Chinese stroke scale (CSS) (SMD: -1.10, 95% CI: −1.72 to −0.48, P = 0.0005, I
2 = 57%). In view of these findings, we conclude that the outcomes of experimental group are superior to the control group with respect to effectiveness, hematoma volume, ADL-BI, and CSS based on nine RCTs with 611 patients. Atorvastatin is beneficial to CSDH patients without surgery.
Qualitative and Quantitative Electrocardiogram Parameters in a Large Cohort of Children with Duchenne Muscle Dystrophy in Comparison with Age-Matched Healthy Subjects: A Study from South India
Authors: Girija Manu S. , Menon Deepak , Polavarapu Kiran , Preethish-Kumar Veeramani , Vengalil Seena , Nashi Saraswati , Keertipriya Madassu , Bardhan Mainak , Thomas Priya T. , Kiran Valasani R. , Nishadham Vikas , Sadasivan Arun , Huddar Akshata , Unnikrishnan Gopi K. , Inbaraj Ganagarajan , Krishnamurthy Arjun , Kramer Boris W. , Sathyaprabha Talakad N. , Nalini Atchayaram
Published: February 2024

Background:

Electrocardiography (ECG) remains an excellent screening tool for cardiac assessment in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), but an accurate interpretation requires comparison with age-matched healthy controls.

Objective:

We examined various ECG parameters in children with DMD, in comparison with age-matched controls.

Methods:

Standard 12-lead ECG tracings of serial patients were screened for quality and selected. Controls were healthy, age-matched school-going children. Both quantitative and qualitative ECG parameters were analyzed.

Results:

After screening, ECGs from 252 patients with DMD (8.32 ± 3.12 years, 2–21 years) and ECGs from 151 age-matched healthy controls (9.72 ± 2.23, 4–19 years) were included. A significantly higher heart rate, shorter R–R interval, and taller R wave in V1 were seen across all age group of DMD in comparison to controls, with the difference increasing with age. While QT prolongation was seen in all age groups of DMD, QTc prolongation was seen only at 10 years or more. Incomplete right bundle branch block (RBBB) and pathological Q waves in inferolateral leads were exclusive in DMD, with the latter declining with age. Evidence for left ventricular (LV) pathology, such as tall R in V5/V6, increase in SV1 + RV6 height, and QRS complex duration, were seen only in the age group of 10 years or more.

Conclusion:

Stratification based on age and comparison with age-matched healthy subjects showed that several ECG parameters were influenced by age, and it also identified age-dependent evidence for LV pathology and QTc prolongation in DMD.
Ex vivo microscopic testicular sperm extraction at the time of radical orchiectomy in men with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA): a scoping review
Authors: Giulioni Carlo , Phuoc Nguyen Ho Vinh , Cayan Selahittin
Published: February 2024

Testicular tumor is the most common solid malignancy in males under 40 years of age. This malignancy is known to have a negative impact on male fertility. Therefore, several techniques for sperm retrieval have been proposed, including microdissection testicular sperm extraction (mTESE). The objective of this study was to review the literature on the outcomes of oncological (Onco)-mTESE at the time of radical orchiectomy. We conducted a comprehensive literature search through PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Controlled Register of Trials. Only studies reporting ex vivo mTESE in patients with testicular tumor were considered. Twelve papers met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Tumor size was identified as the sole preoperative factor influencing spermatogenesis. The considered studies demonstrated a satisfactory success rate for Onco-mTESE, associated with a similarly valid percentage of live healthy births through assisted reproductive technology. Currently, no comparison has been made between Onco-mTESE and conventional Onco-TESE, hence further assessment is required. In cases where the tumor completely replaces the cancer-bearing testicle, a contralateral micro-TESE may be a viable alternative. However, the surgeon should evaluate associated risks and benefits preoperatively. In conclusion, Onco-mTESE at the time of radical orchiectomy appears to be a promising therapeutic option for young patients with testicular tumors. Nevertheless, additional studies are necessary to achieve a definitive conclusion.
The wandering ghost: A rare case report dealing with an incarcerated hemodialysis femoral venous catheter and its successful retrieval
Authors: Sharma Aditya , Yadav Rajeshwar , Pathak Swati
Published: February 2024

The increasing prevalence of chronic kidney diseases worldwide has eventually increased the demand for dialysis. It is usually achieved by creating an arteriovenous fistula or by the placement of temporary hemodialysis catheters. Without a doubt, the creation of an arteriovenous fistula is the best long-term solution for patients needing frequent dialysis because it carries the least risk of infection. We report a rare case dealing with a fractured and incarcerated single-lumen nontunnel temporary hemodialysis catheter secured in the right femoral vein, and the procedure opted for its successful retrieval from the right external iliac vein.
Late presentation of bladder extrophy with fungating mass: A case report
Authors: Medam N Mallikarjunarao , Thomas Appu , Nair Kannan R
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

Exstrophy of the bladder is a rare congenital anomaly usually treated in neonatal or childhood period. Patient presenting for the first time in the adulthood with fungating mass is an extreme rarity.

Case Report:

A 65-year-old man presented with unreconstructed ectopia vesicae with fungating mass and (acute kidney injury (AKI). The patient underwent an incisional biopsy. Histopathology showed mucinous adenocarcinoma with signet ring cells. Positron emission tomography (PET) computed tomography (CT) showed organ-confined primary bladder malignancy. He underwent radical cystectomy with cutaneous ureterostomy with primary closure of abdominal wall defect. Histopathology showed mucinous adenocarcinoma with signet ring cells (T4aN0).

Discussion:

Bladder exstrophy is a rare congenital anomaly, with an estimated incidence of 1 in 50,000 live births. It is more common in males (male:female, 5:1 to 6:1). The malignant potential of the exstrophied bladder mucosa is well known. Approximately 95% are adenocarcinomas and 3%–5% are squamous cell carcinomas. Most of the malignant tumors (60%) are associated with exstrophy of bladder occurring during the fourth and fifth decades of life.

Conclusion:

Awareness about the malignant potential of bladder extrophy and timely correction of the deformity and monitoring perhaps improves the quality of life when a multidisciplinary approach to treatment is adopted. Efforts should be made to pick up and treat such anomalies much earlier.
Cognition and its relationship with differential white cell count among obese undergraduates in Nigeria
Authors: Mukhtar Isyaku Gwarzo , Salama Precious Ishaya
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

Studies have linked obesity with cognitive impairment and low-grade inflammation; however, results have been inconsistent. The aim of this study was to compare global cognitive function and its relationship with indices of obesity and total and differential white blood cell (WBC) counts in obese and normal-weight undergraduates in Kano, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty participants (40 obese and 40 normal weights) were randomly recruited for this case–control descriptive study. Anthropometric indices were measured according to the World Health Organization’s Stepwise protocol; global cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), while the WBC count was performed by manual Leishman staining technique. Data were analyzed on statistical package for social science using an independent t-test, Chi-square test of association, Pearson’s correlation, and simple linear regression.

Results:

The mean age of the participants is 24 years, obese a year older (t = -2.2, P = 0.030). There was no significant difference in global cognitive function score (MoCA score) between the obese and normal-weight participants (t = -1.08, P = 0.283). However, 40% of the normal weight and 42% of the obese participants had mild cognitive impairment. Similarly, the two groups did not differ in total and differential WBC count except for %monocyte, which was higher in normal-weight participants (t = 2.22, P = 0.029). None of the anthropometric and WBC indices correlated with the MoCA score; however, %monocyte was negatively correlated with body mass index (BMI) (r = -0.244, P = 0.029), waist circumference (r = -0.216, P = 0.050), hip circumference (r = -0.234, P = 0.037), and wait-to-height ratio (r = -0.245, P = 0.028) among the whole while %lymphocyte was negatively correlated with BMI (r = -0.311, P = 0.050) among obese participants.

Conclusion:

Obesity is not associated with a decline in cognitive function and inflammation in obese and normal-weight undergraduates in Nigeria.
An obstructed inguinal hernia with maldescended testis as content in an adult male: A case report
Authors: Sharma Aditya , Khanna Rahul , Meena Ram Niwas , Mishra Shashi Prakash , Khanna Seema
Published: February 2024

A long-standing direct inguinal hernia may manifest as an acute or subacute intestinal obstruction. An obstructed direct inguinal hernia with testis as content is extremely uncommon, and up to date, no such case has been reported. Direct inguinal hernias are much less common than indirect ones in terms of incarceration and even strangulation.

Obstructed direct inguinal hernias requiring surgery are very rare. Such hernias are exceedingly challenging to diagnose clinically and are diagnosed intraoperatively. According to the literature, individuals with direct inguinal hernias on the left side are more likely to develop such sequelae.

Herein, we report the case of a 26-year-old male who presented with an obstructed inguinal hernia of the left side with the testis as content, taking into consideration the rarity and possible consequences of such hernias.
The role of financial assessment as a part of corporate social responsibility with special reference to philanthropic responsibility of a multispeciality tertiary care hospital
Authors: Chathoth Rehana Mukundan , Singh Sanjeev K , N Ajith Kumar , T V Sathianadan
Published: February 2024

Background:

Corporate social responsibility (CSR), which includes the healthcare industry, has now taken a significant place within commercial practices. Multispecialty tertiary care hospitals, being major healthcare providers in their communities, have a significant role to play in fulfilling their philanthropic responsibilities and giving back to society. One crucial way in which these hospitals can make a positive impact is through the implementation of financial assessment programs.

Objective:

This study focused to investigate the significance and impact of financial assessment as a component of CSR in the context of a multispecialty tertiary care hospital. The research explores the hospital’s philanthropic responsibilities towards providing financial aid and support to patients in need.

Materials and Methods:

The study used a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection methods to gain comprehensive insights. Interviews from 5 departments with beneficiaries (n = 40), surveys, and financial data analysis were used to assess the hospital’s CSR initiatives, focusing on financial assessment programs. Data were analyzed in SPSS version 20.0.

Results:

The philanthropic variables taken into account in the current study were socioeconomic status, help from external sources, ownership factors, income, and liabilities of beneficiaries. These socioeconomic characteristics were examined using the data gathered, and a significant correlation with the discount percentage was found with a P < 0.05.

Conclusion:

The findings concluded that financial assessment programs in the multispeciality tertiary care hospital are playing an effective role in ensuring equitable access to healthcare and fulfilling its philanthropic responsibilities of CSR.
Mysterious right ventricular function detection in isolated left anterior descending disease by speckle tracking imaging
Authors: El-Bahnasy Hamouda A.K.H.
Published: February 2024

Background and aim

Early detection of impaired right ventricle (RV) would give significant data for management strategy and prognosis in patients with history of cardiac disease. Echocardiography machine is still the first and most widely used cardiac imaging modality in diagnosing heart disease and assessing systolic and diastolic function with high accuracy. The study aimed to assess mysterious RV function in significant isolated left anterior descending (LAD) disease by imaging with speckle tracking, strain, and strain rate.

Patients and methods

The present study was a comparative prospective study included 100 participants, 50 patients with significant LAD disease who were candidates for Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) (group I), and 50 persons as a control group (group II). All participants were exposed to full medical history, clinical examination, ECG, conventional echo, tissue Doppler, speckle tracking imaging.

Results

Global longitudinal free wall strain was statistically lower in patient than control group (−19.21±4.11 in patient group vs. −23.73±1.53 in control group,P<0.001), and RV peak systolic strain rate was reduced in patient group than control group (−1.47±0.55 vs. −1.87±0.42,P<0.001).

Conclusion

In isolated significant LAD disease RV function should be assessed even after opening of LAD by PCI. New echo modality like strain and strain rate are useful echo methods to detect mysterious RV function in patients with significant LAD disease.
A comparative study of the effect of conventional hemodialysis versus hemodiafiltration on the eye
Authors: Abdalmonem Hesham E. , Younos Hosny A. , Elaziz Alsaid Aldosoky Abd , Abdelgbar Ahmed A. , Abdelaziz Ayman
Published: February 2024

Background and aim

Hemodiafiltration (HDF) seems to be the gold standard concerning dialysis-aided renal replacements. Hemodialysis (HD) and severe renal failure both have visual side effects, including high intraocular pressure, band keratopathy, macular leakage, red eyes, retinal hemorrhage, and optical neuropathy. The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of routine conventional HD versus routine HDF on ocular problems in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Patients and methods

This prospective cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 200 patients divided into 100 patients of CKD on regular HD three times weekly (4 h duration) (HD group) and 100 patients of CKD on regular HDF three times weekly (4 h duration) (HDF group). clinical interview, routine laboratory tests, and complete eye examination were done on all participants.

Results

Prior to treatment, there was no significant difference between the HDF and HD categories for either eye’s central foveal thickness, average macular thickness, visual acuity, intraocular pressure, anterior segment, or fundus examination. In addition, no significant difference was observed between both groups after therapy in both eyes.

Conclusion

Regular HDF and HD treatments administered for 6 months each had no negative impact on ocular parameters.
Evolving Fuchs’ uveitis - A diagnostic challenge
Authors: Kawali Ankush , Sriram Radhika , Srinivasan Sanjay , Mahendradas Padmamalini , Shetty Rohit
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

To study cases of Fuchs’ uveitis (FU) diagnosed as uveitis other than FU at initial visits.

Methods:

A retrospective, observational chart review. Details of clinical presentation, initial diagnosis, treatment details, and follow-up before and after the diagnosis of FU was studied.

Result:

Twenty eyes of 19 patients finally diagnosed with FU. Mean total follow-up was 39 months (range: 3–120 months, median: 30 months) and follow-up after diagnosis of FU was 18 months (range: 0–84 months, median: 11 months). Most of the cases were diagnosed with anterior plus intermediate uveitis at the presentation (n = 8, 42.1%) and received steroid treatment. Keratic precipitates (KPs) typical of FU developed after mean 5.4 months of presentation (range: 1–18 months, median: 2 months). Altered iris pattern was noted after 17 months of presentation (range: 2–70 months, median: 8.5). Vitritis of grades 1–2 was present in all eyes. Overlap of uveitis of other etiology (retinal vasculitis, presumed tubercular intermediate uveitis) was found in three patients. Systemic immune disease (systemic lupus erythematosus, pulmonary sarcoidosis) was present in two patients. No treatment for the ocular inflammation was given after the diagnosis of FU in any patient and no change in the pattern of FU was observed during further follow-up.

Conclusion:

Evolving FU may lead to misdiagnosis and mismanagement. We suggest a conservative approach, withholding steroid treatment, allowing FU to evolve, in otherwise asymptomatic patients with white eye, mild to moderate anterior chamber (AC) and vitreous inflammation, absent posterior synechiae and normal fundus examination or fundus examination suggestive of resolved uveitis.
Changes in confocal microscopy in glaucoma patients after intraocular pressure reduction with medical therapy
Authors: Hirawat Raj S , Aron Neelima , Mahalingam Karthikeyan , Gupta Viney , Angmo Dewang , Dada Tanuj , Titiyal Jeewan S , Sharma Namrata , Sihota Ramanjit
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

Topical glaucoma medication is the first line of management to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with glaucoma. In this study, we intended to compare the ultrastructural findings of the cornea in patients with glaucoma before and after the reduction of the IOP through confocal microscopy.

Methods:

Ten patients (19 eyes) with newly diagnosed glaucoma were recruited from the glaucoma services of our tertiary care center. Demographic parameters were noted, and basic ocular examination, specular microscopy (Topcon SP3000P, Tokyo, Japan), and ultrasonic pachymetry (300 AP, Sonomed Escalon, Stoneham, MA, USA) were performed. In vivo confocal microscopy of corneal sections was performed using the z-ring Confoscan 4.0 (Nidek, Inc., Freemont, CA) at baseline and after 3 months of starting glaucoma medications.

Results:

The mean age of the patients was 53.53 ± 9.34 years. There was a statistically significant reduction (P < 0.0001) of IOP from 30.21 ± 7.42 mmHg (baseline) to 16.42 ± 4.14 mmHg (3 months). The mean central corneal thickness at baseline was 533.42 ± 3.96 µm, and it further decreased to 521.94 ± 42.45 µm at the end of 3 months (P = 0.006). No significant change was noted in the mean epithelial cell density, mean keratocyte density in anterior and posterior stroma, and the mean endothelial cell density and cell area (P >0.5). There was no significant percentage change in these parameters before and after the lowering of the IOP.

Conclusion:

A short-term (3 months) decrease in IOP using topical glaucoma medications caused a significant reduction in corneal thickness but did not have any significant ultrastructural changes in cornea measured using confocal microscopy.
Characterization the corneal transparency profile in SMILE-treated myopic patients with densitometry: A 7-year cohort study
Authors: Yang Dongmei , Chen Zhuoyi , Zhao Wuxiao , Zhao Jing , Zhou Xingtao , Wang Jifang
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

To investigate 7-year changes in corneal densitometry (CD) and its influencing factors following small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) for moderate to high myopia.

Methods:

A total of 32 patients (52 eyes) with a mean spherical equivalent (SE) refraction of -6.30 ± 1.30 D who underwent SMILE were recruited for this prospective study. Pre- and postoperative CD and corneal aberrations were measured by an oculus Pentacam system, and patients were followed up to 7 years. The CD evolution over time and its influencing factors were explored.

Results:

No complications were observed after SMILE. There was a significant time effect on postoperative CD (P < 0.05). The CD values at the 0-to-2 and 2-to-6 mm of the anterior layer increased at the first day (P < 0.05) and declined to baselines at 1 year postoperatively; after that, CD values at any zone and any corneal layer presented a decreasing trend over time (all P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that postoperative CD was positively correlated with age and optical zone (OZ), whereas negatively correlated with SE, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), and corneal aberrations (higher-order aberrations, Coma0 and Coma90) (all P < 0.05). Generalized estimating equation revealed that age, SE, CDVA, OZ, and Coma0 were the main factors influencing postoperative CD values (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

CD manifested a long-term decreasing trend in moderate to high myopia treated with SMILE. Its main influencing factors are age, SE, CDVA, OZ, and Coma0.
Survey and analysis of accessibility, availability, and affordability of topical glaucoma medicines
Authors: Virani Shalini , Rewri Parveen
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

Affordability and availability of medicines is a growing global challenge for health-care systems. Access to medicines is recognized as an important determinant of treatment adherence. The access to glaucoma medicines and how it affects glaucoma management are not known. The purpose of this study was to determine the availability, affordability, and accessibility of topical intraocular pressure (IOP) -lowering eye drops in Haryana state of northern India using the World Health Organization (WHO)/Health Action International (HAI) methods.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was done to collect data on prices and availability of glaucoma topical medications in public and private sector pharmacies and retail outlets using the WHO/HAI methodology between October 2021 and January 2022. The availability and affordability of topical glaucoma medicines was determined. Comparison of the local price with international prices was done by calculating the median price ratio (MPR).

Results:

A total of 191 facilities were randomly sampled across 11 (n = 55) urban, 29 (n = 92) semi-urban, and 44 (n = 44) rural places during the study period. The availability of topical medication for glaucoma was low (35.7 ± 22.3) across all sampled sites and all classes of topical glaucoma medications. The median price of topical medication and availability were negatively correlated, Pearson’s coefficient r (18) = -0.44, P 0.05, though the relationship was weak. A lowest paid, unskilled Indian government worker must spend between 15% and 203% of their daily wage to acquire a glaucoma medication.

Conclusion:

The availability and accessibility of topical glaucoma medications was low in this survey.
Harnessing the medical undergraduate human resource for screening of sight-threatening diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Khandelia Hemant , Deora Aarush , Bhattacharyya Arunangshu , Nangla Parnika , Chawla Rohan , Venkatesh Pradeep , Tandon Radhika
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

To assess whether medical undergraduates can be trained to effectively screen diabetic retinopathy (DR) by statistical comparison with a retina specialist at a tertiary eye care center in India.

Methods:

Three final-year undergraduate medical students, having completed ophthalmology department rotation, received training from a retina specialist for grading DR, following which they were asked to grade a set of 50 fundus photographs centered on the macula with a view of 50° as sight-threatening DR (STDR), diabetic macular edema, and grade of DR. Agreement among the undergraduates and retina specialist was determined with the help of Cohen’s Kappa coefficient.

Results:

Kappa coefficient between undergraduates for detection of STDR ranged from 0.695 to 0.817 and between each student and the retina specialist ranged from 0.663 to 0.712. The sensitivity and specificity for undergraduates’ and retina specialist’s detection of STDR were 93.93%–96.96% and 60%, respectively.

Conclusion:

There was substantial agreement among the undergraduates as well as between the undergraduates and the retina specialist for the detection of STDR. Undergraduates also detected STDR with a high sensitivity. This study outlines the feasibility of training undergraduate students for screening DR.
Genotypic and phenotypic diversity in X-linked retinoschisis: Findings from a South Indian patient cohort
Authors: Chowdhury Susmita , Chermakani Prakash , Baliga Girish , Anjanamurthy Rupa , Sundaresan Periasamy
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

Retinoschisis is a distinctive condition characterized by intraretinal layer clefts, primarily associated with X-linked recessive inheritance due to RS1 gene mutations. This study aims to uncover the RS1 mutation spectrum in a cohort of 22 X-linked retinoschisis cases from South India and emphasizes the genotypic and phenotypic associations within patients harboring only RS1 mutations.

Methods:

A total of 22 probands were suspected of having X-linked retinoschisis. All study subjects underwent ophthalmic investigations, including assessments of visual acuity, fundus examination, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and electroretinogram (ERG). RS1 gene screening was conducted using Sanger sequencing, and the pathogenicity of the variants was assessed through Sorting Intolerant from Tolerant (SIFT) and PolyPhen-2 in silico tools.

Results:

The study found that the probands had an average visual acuity of 0.79 ± 0.39 log of minimum angle of resolution (logMAR), ranging from 0.17 to 1.77. During fundus examination, the probands exhibited a characteristic spoke wheel-like pattern in the macular region. Furthermore, OCT analysis revealed distinct alterations in the inner retinal microstructure, and ERG results consistently showed a reduction in b-wave amplitude. Eventually, Sanger sequencing results showed hemizygous mutations in the RS1 gene in only 12 probands, including a novel missense mutation in the RS1 gene’s signal sequence.

Conclusion:

This study provides valuable insights into the spectrum of RS1 mutations in X-linked retinoschisis probands from South India. It reveals distinct genotypic–phenotypic associations and highlights the clinical manifestations associated with the disease pathogenesis.
A comparison between the lecture and self-study methods on female students’ awareness and attitudes about text neck syndrome
Authors: Soheili Mahsa , Shakerian Mahnaz , Soleymani Mohammad Reza , Safapour Parsa , Afshar Mina
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Text Neck Syndrome (TNS) is a common issue in the neck. The emergence of such issues makes it more pressing to offer ergonomic training to prevent their consequences. The present study aimed to compare training through the lecture and Self-Study methods awareness and attitudes about the TNS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The study was conducted on 94 female high-school students in 2021, and a quasi-experimental methodology was implemented. The participants were randomly divided into a lecture method and a self-study group. A researcher-made questionnaire was utilized for data collection to measure the participants’ attitudes and awareness. The data were analyzed according to descriptive and inferential statistics.

RESULT:

The findings showed that the mean post-test scores of the participants’ awareness in the lecture method and self-study groups were 8.74 and 5.83, respectively, and a significant increase was observed in the post-test scores of the lecture method group. However, no significant difference was observed between the pre-test and post-test attitude scores of the two groups.

CONCLUSION:

As training by the use of the lecture method in a webinar format has the characteristics of a traditional and online educational simultaneously, it offers an advantage that can be utilized in educational institutions as a complementary (or even an independent) method. Moreover, the experts in medical informational sciences need to accompany training groups as they are responsible to select and prepare credible content materials for audiences.
Evaluation of mothers’ knowledge about infant sudden death syndrome and its risk factors
Authors: Hajian Mahtab , Tabasizadeh Hamed , Mohamadi Elahe , Daliri Salman , Moayyed Marzieh Eslami
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Sudden infant death syndrome is the third leading cause of infant death in the first year of life and is one of the most important health problems around the world. The exact etiology of this phenomenon is not clear yet, but some risk factors, especially prone sleep positions, have been described. Fortunately, by modifying some environmental factors, the SIDS incidence might be decreased. Mothers’ and caregivers’ knowledge about this neglected event could be an important factor in determining SIDS prevalence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional study was conducted in the pediatric and neonatal specialty clinic of Bahar Shahroud Hospital in 2020. Five hundred and twenty-seven pregnant women of reproductive age (18 to 45 years) were included in the study. Assessment of mothers’ knowledge was done using a sudden infant death syndrome risk questionnaire. Statistical analysis of data was performed using independent t-test, Chi-square, and logistic regression.

RESULTS:

The number of 527 pregnant women of childbearing age participated in our study. 81.9% were under 35 years old. According to the study, factors such as maternal age, mother’s level of education, number of pregnancies, and history of previous infant death syndrome had a significant relationship with the mother’s level of knowledge about infant death syndrome. The findings showed that the mother’s age is over 35 years old during pregnancy (CI: 0.95-0.46-OR: 1.53) and the level of education under a diploma (CI: 3.13-1.6: 06, OR: 1.86), and increasing parity is associated with a lower level of knowledge about infant death syndrome.

CONCLUSION:

According to mothers’ lack of knowledge about SIDS and the availability of simple and cost-effective methods to prevent SIDS, improving mothers’ knowledge about this important event in pregnancy and postpartum, educational sessions are crucial.
Psychological challenges of female caregivers in providing home-based palliative care for patients with advanced cancer: A descriptive-exploratory study
Authors: Monemian Sharifeh , Sharbafchi Mohammad R. , Taleghani Fariba
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Family caregivers play a key role in providing care for patients with advanced cancer. Most of this care burden is shouldered by female caregivers in the family. Compared to their male counterparts, female caregivers face numerous psychological challenges in the process of caregiving. The aim of this study was to identify the psychological challenges of female caregivers in providing care to patients with advanced cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This descriptive-exploratory study began with purposive sampling method in 2020-2021 in Isfahan and continued until data saturation was reached. Twenty semi-structured interviews were conducted with female caregivers of patients with advanced cancer and 18 more interviews with providers of health services and supportive-palliative care. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using conventional qualitative content analysis.

DISCUSSION:

The results were classified into three categories. The first category was psychological reactions that included the four subcategories of depression and anxiety, aggression, mental exhaustion, and death anxiety; the second category was psychological needs which included the three subcategories of need for professional counseling, need for emotional support, and need to prepare for mourning; and the third category was mental occupations which consisted of the two subcategories of feeling of regret and remorse.

CONCLUSION:

Assessment of psychological challenges is a prerequisite for planning psychological interventions, providing high-quality care, and improving quality of life and satisfaction of caregivers. The findings of this study will contribute to the development of guidelines and empowerment programs for female caregivers providing palliative care.
The effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy on clinical symptoms and treatment adherence in dialysis patients
Authors: Sadeghi Amir Hossein , Ahmadi Seyyed Ali , Ghodrati-Torbati Abbas
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Clinical symptoms and treatment adherence are one of the most important problems in dialysis patients. Psychological treatments can be effective in reducing the problems of these patients. Therefore, this study aimed at investigating the effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) on clinical symptoms and treatment adherence in these patients.

MATERIALS AND METHOD:

This study was a quasi-experimental study with the experimental and control groups in the dialysis clinic of Torbat-e Heydarieh City in 2012. The sample consisted of 40 people who were referred to the dialysis clinic, and the available sampling method was used to randomly assign participants to the experimental and control groups. In the experimental group, ACT was performed in eight sessions of 90 minutes. Questionnaires of Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and general adherence scale were used. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS 21) software and multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) test.

RESULTS:

There was a significant difference between the mean scores of clinical symptoms and treatment adherence variables in the experimental and control groups (P < 0.05). The effect of this treatment on reducing the clinical symptoms score was 48%, and on increasing the treatment, the adherence score was 44%.

CONCLUSION:

ACT can reduce clinical symptoms and increase treatment adherence in dialysis patients, so it is suggested to use this intervention in the design of treatment plans for dialysis patients.