bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementation of Interactive Conceptual Instruction (ICI) Learning Model Assisted by Computer Simulation: Impact of Students’ Conceptual Changes on Force and Vibration
Authors: Kaniawati Ida , Maulidina Widyatami Nurul , Novia Hera , Suyana Iyon , Samsudin Achmad , Aminudin Adam Hadiana , Suhendi Endi
Published: November 2021

Misconception can be interpreted as incorrect conceptual understanding be-cause it is not in accordance with scientific conceptions but is believed to be the correct conception within students’ minds. Misconception often happens in understanding the concept of Physics, one of which is the concept of Force and Vibration. Misconceptions can be an obstacle in achieving the objectives of learning Physics. One of the causes of the misconception is that the learning model used has not been able to encourage students’ conceptual change. One of the learning models that can promote conceptual change is Interactive Conceptual Instruction (ICI) assisted by computer simulation. The aim of this research was to find out the effectivity of ICI assisted by computer simulation learning model implementation in the change of high school students’ conception on Force and Vibration. Mixed method research with concurrent embedded research design was used in this study. The re-search was conducted on 60 students of class X in one public high school in Cimahi City, which were divided into experimental class and control class with 30 students in each class. The experimental class took part in ICI learning assisted by computer simulations, while the control class participated in conventional learning. The instruments used in this study were 20 items of four-tier test to determine students’ conception level and observation sheets to determine the implementation of ICI learning assisted by computer simulations. The effectivity of ICI assisted by computer simulation in the change of high school students’ conception was measured by effect size. The data processing revealed that the effect size obtained was 0.99 with a "large" interpretation. The change of students’ conception could be seen from the declining of misconception percentage of 9.3% in experimental class. Thus, it can be concluded that the application of the ICI learning model assisted by computer simulations can be done as an effort to change the conceptions of high school students to be better at the concept of Force and Vibration.
Design and Realization of a Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation System for Music Teaching in Higher Education
Authors: Wang Zhiying , Lyu Dong
Published: November 2021

In recent years, music teaching in higher education has developed quickly, and attracted more and more attention. However, there is not yet a mature method to evaluate the education and teaching (ET) effect of music teaching in colleges. To solve the problem, this paper combines modern information technology and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation (FCE) to design and realize a FCE system for assessing the ET effect of music teaching in higher education. Firstly, the functional and non-functional requirements of the system were analyzed in detail. On this basis, the overall architecture and functional modules of the system were designed and realized. Application results show that the proposed system operated stably, and met the needs of ET effect evaluation. The research results are of theoretical and practical significance to the promotion of information-based teaching evaluation, the enhancement of management efficiency and quality, and the improvement of ET effect of music teaching in colleges.
Blockchain and IoT Technology in Transformation of Education Sector
Authors: Agarwal Parul , Idrees Sheikh Mohammad , Obaid Ahmed J.
Published: November 2021

Technology has impacted every field of life, and Education sector is no exception. It has seen seismic changes off-late. The traditional classroom teaching-learning process involved teachers and students using the black-board approach. But, the past years have seen a change in dynamics of this process. Technology has crept in and has profoundly changed it for better. On one hand, when traditional classrooms had teachers, students and books as players, the current classroom has teachers, students, robots, e-books, laptops and books as the players. Today’s classrooms have enabled the teaching-learning process cross boundaries in the form of e-lectures and tutorials. Massive amount of Information is readily available for the process. Also, a shift from “Teacher-centric” to “Student Centric” can be seen in the current scenario. Several technologies have been key-players in revolutionizing the education sector, but the focus of this paper is concentrated in exploiting the applications of Blockchain and IoT in the sector and identifying the areas where they prove to be beneficial. An extensive literature survey shall be done to understand, and identify how these technologies are a solution to major educational problems. The teaching learning process needs to be understood with respect to various parameters: change in process, change in players, change in outcomes derived, and others. The associated challenges shall also be identified. A detailed analysis of these enables us to conclude that these technologies, can revolutionize the education sector for better in future, particularly Blockchain is young, but, owing to the benefits derived from it, further research and adoption shall for surely change the teaching-learning process.
Samba de Roda : comemorando identidades afro-brasileiras através da performance musical
Authors: Graeff Nina
Published: November 2021

“Samba” significa ao mesmo tempo festa, música e dança. No Recôncavo Baiano, Brasil, o Samba de Roda pode acontecer como uma comemoração no próprio dia-a-dia, tanto como encerramento de festividades religiosas. Este artigo apresenta aspectos musicológicos e coreográficos característicos da prática musical, interpretando-os como símbolos identitários da cultura regional. Tais dados analíticos da performance do Samba de Roda tornam-se marcas de historicidade, a serem reconhecidas em relatos históricos da cultura popular do país. Atividade cotidiana ou ritual, sambar é celebrar a identidade e a memória dos afro-brasileiros.
O triunfo solene da conversão
Authors: Fleck Eliane Cristina Deckmann
Published: November 2021

A produção discursiva jesuítica dos séculos XVI e XVII revela a preocupação que os missionários tiveram em definir as inclinações favoráveis e as inaptidões naturais dos indígenas, e, também, em justificar sua utilização ou erradicação para o êxito do projeto de civilização e de evangelização. Mergulhados na mística salvacionista da Contra-Reforma, estes religiosos não se furtaram em registrar o seu estranhamento e a condenação de determinadas práticas culturais, bem como sua incompreensão em relação aos rituais que as envolviam. Neste artigo, privilegiamos a análise desta documentação, buscando identificar a eventual utilização estratégica destas manifestações para a introdução da ritualística e da sensibilidade devocional cristã por alguns missionários que atuaram na Província Jesuítica do Paraguai.
L’invention d’une capitale : Tlemcen
Authors: Vanz Jennifer
Published: November 2021

Depuis les travaux menés à l’époque coloniale, Tlemcen (Algérie) n’a plus été prise comme objet d’étude à part entière, l’historiographie ayant privilégié l’histoire politique et événementielle à l’échelle d’un royaume.
Cet ouvrage replace la ville au cœur de la réflexion pour interroger les modalités de son affirmation en tant que capitale de la dynastie abdelwadide à partir VII/XIIIe siècle, en l’envisageant d’abord comme une construction sociale. L’affirmation de ce statut est ainsi le résultat de stratégies discursives déployées par le pouvoir abdelwadide mais aussi mérinide, puis partagées, diffusées et réappropriées au-delà du Maghreb. Ce sont ainsi de nouvelles catégories qui émergent et par­ticipent de la recomposition des représentations spatiales à l’époque post-almohade. Mais ce sont aussi les pratiques de l’espace mises en œuvre par divers acteurs, pouvoirs sultaniens, saints et savants, qui contribuent à faire de Tlemcen une capitale et qui favorisent son affirmation à l’échelle régionale, ainsi que son insertion dans les réseaux méditerranéens et transsahariens.
À travers l’étude de la construction matérielle et symbolique de Tlemcen comme capitale de la dynastie abdelwadide, cet ouvrage revisite l’histoire du Maghreb central et d’un pouvoir] abdelwadide trop souvent considéré comme instable et soumis à ses concurrents mérinide et hafside, pour donner à voir les dynamiques qui l’animent et les interactions dont il se nourrit.
Les hommes de Gorbatchev
Authors: Momzikoff-Markoff Sophie
Published: November 2021

Décembre 1991. L’Empire rouge qui a si longtemps fait trembler l’Occident s’effondre. Les raisons de sa fin aussi brutale qu’imprévue sont longtemps demeurées mystérieuses. Quels facteurs ont poussé Mikhaïl Gorbatchev à lancer son pays sur les chemins risqués et néanmoins pleins d’espoir des réformes ?
Cinq ans plus tôt, en février 1986, celui qui occupe depuis une année déjà le poste de secrétaire général du PCUS annonce une nouvelle manière de penser les relations internationales en URSS. Celle-ci se déploie sur plusieurs axes : dans un monde interdépendant, la coopération prime désormais sur la confrontation, dans la mesure où les États doivent s’entendre pour répondre à des défis globaux. Face à la menace d’une guerre nucléaire, la course aux armements entre l’Est et l’Ouest doit cesser et il faut que les capacités militaires des États-Unis et de l’URSS soient ramenées à un niveau raisonnable. Rejetant ainsi l’usage de la force pour conduire les relations internationales, l’URSS se veut à l’avant-garde de la lutte pour la paix, concept qui remplace progressivement celui de lutte des classes en politique extérieure.
De 1986 à la fin de l’année 1991, cette approche originale, appelée la « Nouvelle Pensée », remet en question la ligne traditionnelle de la politique extérieure soviétique. Sur un plan théorique, elle met fin au dogmatisme idéologique et signale l’adaptation des principes fondateurs du marxisme-léninisme au monde qui l’entoure. Sur un plan pratique, les actions politiques qui sont associées à la Nouvelle Pensée dans la seconde moitié des années 1980 mènent à la fin de la guerre froide. Ce tournant ne peut être compris sans étudier, sur le long terme, les influences ayant rendu possible la révolution gorbatchévienne. Car ce sont des hommes et leurs réseaux, situés à la charnière des mondes politique et scientifique, qui proposent depuis le milieu des années 1950, dans le secret des corridors du Kremlin, de nouvelles approches en matière de relations internationales.
Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio in pregnancy-associated maternal complications
Authors: Biswas Monalisa , Belle Vijetha Shenoy , Maripini Nihaal , Prabhu Krishnananda
Published: November 2021

Pregnancy associated diseases/disorders are associated with significant maternal and neonatal morbidities and mortalities. Devising/validating cost effective and easily accessible predictive, diagnostic and risk stratification markers are critical to the management and improved outcome in these diseases. Inflammation forms the backbone of most of the routinely encountered maternal complications of pregnancy. Hematological markers can be considered as a direct reflection of the systemic inflammatory milieu. Recently, the neutrophil lymphocyte ratio has been explored for its potential to assess the severity of inflammation and thus the severity of the underlying disorder. The neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio has gained scientific attention as a potential prognostic/predictive marker of acute as well as chronic inflammatory diseases including gynecological and reproductive disorders. This present study reviews the mechanistic role of neutrophils and lymphocytes in fueling or propagating the inflammatory cascades in the three most common maternal complications of pregnancy and the evidence of clinical importance of the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in predicting, diagnosing, and prognosticating pregnancy-associated complications.
Association between eNOS gene promoter polymorphism (-786T>C) and idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss in Iranian women
Authors: Jalili Maryam Sadat , Asadollahi Samira , Seifati Seyed Morteza , Ashrafzadeh Hamid Reza , Ghasemi Nasrin
Published: November 2021

Objective:

To investigate the frequency of -786T>C variant in endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) gene promoter in Iranian women with recurrent pregnancy loss.

Methods:

Blood samples were obtained from 100 unrelated women affected by recurrent pregnancy loss and 100 unaffected women as the controls. Genomic DNA was extracted and -786T>C polymorphism in eNOS gene promoter was investigated by PCR-RFLP method. Statistical analyses and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in the groups of patients and controls were performed by Chi-square test and SPSS standard software (Version 21).

Results:

The frequency of homozygous TT was 40% in cases and 46% in the control group; the frequency of CC was 7% in cases and 5% in the control group; frequency heterozygote TC was 53% in cases and 49% in the control group. Genotype frequencies between the two groups showed no significant differences (P>0.05).

Conclusions:

The -786T>C polymorphism is not more frequent in recurrent pregnancy loss in this population.
Protective effects of honey compound syrup on busulfan-induced azoospermia in male rats
Authors: Athari Seyyed Shamsadin , Lorian Keivan , Kashafroodi Haniye , Ghafarzadeh Saadat , Choopani Rasool
Published: November 2021

Objective:

To evaluate the protective effects of honey compound syrup on sperm count and testis tissue in rats.

Methods:

Thirty rats were randomly assigned to five groups. The control group received 1 mL normal saline with dimethyl sulfoxide intraperitoneally; the busulfan group received busulfan 10 mg/kg body weight at the first and twenty-first days of the experiment via intraperitoneal injection; the last three groups received busulfan 10 mg/kg body weight to induce azoospermia, and then received 1.0, 1.5, or 2.0 mg/kg honey compound syrup, respectively, after induction of azoospermia. After administration, the testis and epididymis of all rats were removed. Then, reproductive organ weight and sperm parameters (sperm concentration, epididymal sperm reserve and daily sperm production) were measured. After hematoxylin-eosin staining, seminiferous tubule cells and diameters were assessed.

Results:

Busulfan damaged the testis tissue and impaired spermatogenesis. Administration of honey compound syrup in three doses improved testis tissue and spermatogenesis. The protective effects of honey compound syrup may relate to the antioxidant properties of honey and other compounds in this syrup.

Conclusions:

Administration of honey compound syrup could be an ameliorative agent for the side effects of chemotherapy drugs such as busulfan on the male reproductive system.
Ectopic pancreas
Authors: Hsu Fang-Chin , Hsu Hai-Ning , Peng Yi-Jen , Hsu Kuo-Feng
Published: November 2021

Ectopic pancreas is a disease where pancreatic tissue occurs outside its normal anatomic location, without vascular continuity. Symptoms for this condition may depend on the localization of the ectopic tissue and originate from either mass effect or inflammation. The diagnosis of ectopic pancreas can be challenging due to its rarity and nonspecific symptoms. Herein, we report a case of recurrent abdominal pain diagnosed with gastric ectopic pancreas of uncommon size in an uncommon location. Upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy revealed a large gastric polyp and endoscopic needle biopsy only identified normal gastric mucosa. However, computed tomography imaging revealed a protruding mass that, upon excision, was identified as ectopic pancreatic tissue. Two different pathological findings arose from two different sampling methods, leading us to the conclusion that ectopic pancreas should always be considered in the diagnosis of a GI tumor.
Formalin-assisted training eyes for ophthalmic wet lab practice
Authors: Odayappan Annamalai , Sulaiman Syed Mohammad , Nachiappan Sivagami , Venkatesh Rengaraj
Published: November 2021

The foundation of an ophthalmologists’ microsurgical career begins in the wet lab. Training on donor cadaveric, animal like goat or pig eyes provide the most realistic surgical environment, however, the availability of a donor’s eyes for practice is limited. This scarcity is further escalated in this current coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic where eye donations have decreased. Even among those eyes which find their way into the wet lab, quite a few would have collapsed significantly making training difficult. Therefore, we looked at ways to salvage these collapsed globes. We describe a novel way of salvaging the collapsed eyeballs by injecting formalin in slow boluses into the vitreous cavity. The longer maintenance of the globe integrity without necessitating repeated injections facilitates better quality of surgical training and optimal utilization of these eyes.
Lifestyle modification in school-going children before and after COVID-19 lockdown
Authors: Saxena Rohit , Gupta Vivek , Rakheja Vaishali , Dhiman Rebika , Bhardawaj Amit , Vashist Praveen
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

To evaluate the impact of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on lifestyle of school-going children.

Methods:

This was a questionnaire-based prospective study of 1237 school children aged 9-14 years enrolled from various private and government schools across Delhi in October-December 2020. These children were being followed-up over the previous 2 years (before pandemic) with details of their lifestyle like near/outdoor/reading activities using a questionnaire as a part of another study. The data during the COVID-19 lockdown was collected by telephonic interview. This was compared to similar information collected from this cohort in the pre-Covid period in 2019 when the students had a regular physical school curriculum.

Results:

A significant decline was noted in time spent on outdoor activity (from 8.5 hours/week in pre-COVID-19 time to 1.6 hours/week during COVID-19 lockdown; P < 0.001) and doing homework offline (from 15.3 hour/week to 14 hours/week; P < 0.001). A significant increase was noted in screen time spent on digital devices (from 6.2 hours/week to 19.8 hours/week; P<0.001), and watching television (from 12.2 hours/week to 13.4 hours/week; P < 0.001). The rise in the digital on-screen time was significantly more in boys (P < 0.001) and in students from private schools (P < 0.001). The rise in the duration of watching television was significantly more in girls than boys (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

COVID-19 lockdown has markedly impacted the lifestyle of school children by significantly decreasing the outdoor activity and increasing the screen time, thereby pre-disposing them to ocular ill-health and myopia. This necessitates the adoption of guidelines for promoting healthy digital habits in children.
Acute graft rejection in a high-risk corneal transplant following COVID-19 vaccination: A case report
Authors: Parmar Dipali P , Garde Pawan V , Shah Sarjak M , Bhole Pradnya K
Published: November 2021

As COVID-19 vaccination is being undertaken all over the world, its side effects are materializing slowly. One such emerging side effect is acute graft rejection in corneal transplant (CT) cases post COVID-19 vaccination. We report a case of left eye (LE) repeat penetrating keratoplasty presenting with diminished vision in LE within 2 days of COVID-19 vaccination (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 Corona Virus Vaccine Recombinant, COVISHIELD™). The patient was diagnosed with acute graft rejection post vaccination and was treated with topical and systemic immunosuppression therapy with successful outcome in terms improvement of visual acuity and corneal graft clarity. Timely presentation, diagnosis, and management may help to survive acute rejection episodes post vaccination.
Ethambutol toxicity: Expert panel consensus for the primary prevention, diagnosis and management of ethambutol-induced optic neuropathy
Authors: Saxena Rohit , Singh Digvijay , Phuljhele Swati , Kalaiselvan V , Karna Satya , Gandhi Rashmin , Prakash Anupam , Lodha Rakesh , Mohan Anant , Menon Vimla , Garg Rajeev ,   INOSRG
Published: November 2021

Ethambutol use may lead to permanent vision loss by inducing a dose- and duration-dependent optic neuropathy. This has been of concern to ophthalmologists and physicians both; however, ethambutol continues to be used because of its anti-mycobacterial action with relative systemic safety. Recently, the guidelines of the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme of India have been revised to allow for fixed dose and longer duration of ethambutol use; this is likely to result in an increase in vision-threatening adverse effects. Taking cognizance of this, neuro-ophthalmologists, infectious disease specialists, and scientists met under the aegis of the Indian Neuro-Ophthalmology Society to deliberate on prevention, early diagnosis, and management of ethambutol-related toxic optic neuropathy. The recommendations made by the expert group focus on early suspicion of ethambutol toxicity through screening at the physician’s office and opportunistic screening by the ophthalmologist. Further, they focus on an early diagnosis through identification of specific clinical biomarkers and on management in way of early stoppage of the drug and supportive therapy. This statement also describes the mechanism of reporting a case of toxic optic neuropathy through the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India and emphasizes the need for spreading awareness regarding vision-threatening adverse effects among patients and healthcare workers.
Glaucoma and optical coherence tomography changes in migraine: A comparative cross-sectional study
Authors: Panicker Gayathri , Kaliaperumal Subashini , Narayan Sunil , Mani Malavika
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

To study the prevalence of glaucoma among adults with migraine and the effect of migraine on peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) and central macular thickness (CMT) using optical coherence tomography (OCT) compared to those without migraine headache, i.e. in tension-type headache (TTH) and normal group.

Methods:

One hundred and eleven patients (222 eyes) were recruited in three groups. migraine, TTH, and normal subjects visiting hospital outpatient services. After noting demographic details and pertinent history, ophthalmological evaluation including optic disc for glaucomatous changes along with computerized visual field testing and OCT for pRNFL thickness and CMT was performed in all eyes. Continuous variables were compared using ANOVA or Kruskal–Wallis test, while categorical variables including the association of glaucoma with migraine were analyzed using Chi-square or Fisher’s exact test.

Results:

Prevalence of glaucoma in migraine group (12.2%) was more than in comparison groups (6.8% in TTH, 4.1% in normal) which was however not significant (Fisher’s exact P = 0.207). Average pRNFL thickness (103.59 ± 12.82 μm) and thickness in nasal (90.49 ± 19.19 μm) and temporal quadrants (70.58 ± 16.13 μm) and CMT (213.78 ± 19.81 μm) were significantly reduced (ANOVA P < 0.05) in migraine patients when compared to the other groups and this was independent of the presence of glaucoma.

Conclusion:

Prevalence of glaucoma is not significantly higher in migraine patients. However, migraine causes thinning of retinal layers on OCT that is statistically significant.
Overcoming myopic shift by the initial inductive hypermetropia in pediatric cataract surgery
Authors: Panahibazaz Mahmoud Reza , Mohammadpour Shirin , Samaeili Azade
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

To assess the outcome of under-correction of intraocular lens (IOL) power in pediatric cataract surgery.

Methods:

We collected clinical data of 103 patients (181 eyes), all aged ≤15 years, who had undergone cataract surgery by a surgeon during 2006–2016. The mean duration of follow-up was 73 ± 38 months (range: 24–108). IOL power was calculated by Hoffer Q formula in axial length (AL) <21 mm and SRKT formula in AL ≥21 mm and then modified based on this approach: 7D initial inductive hypermetropization in children ≤1-year-old, 5D in 1–3, 3.5D in 3–5, 2.5D in 5–7, 1.5D in 7–9, 1D in 9–10, and 0 in children >10 years old.

Results:

The mean age of all children at surgery time was 5.85 ± 4.56 years (range: 1–178 months). There was a mean myopic shift of −6.379 D in the ≤1 year, −5.532 in the 1–3, −3.194 in the 3–5, −2.301 in the 5–7, −1.06 in the 7–9, −1.567 in the 9–10, and 0.114 in the >10-year-old age group. In 125 eyes (69.1%) of 181, the final SE was between −2 and +2 D, and 21 eyes (11.6%) achieved the goal of emmetropization. Mean best-corrected visual acuity logarithm of the minimum angle of the resolution was 0.30 in children ≤1 year, 0.39 in 1–3, 0.21 in 3–5, 0.18 in 5–7, 0.14 in 7–9, 0.16 in 9–10, and 0.11 in children >10 years old.

Conclusion:

This study shows a larger myopic shift in younger children. Using our approach, all age groups could finally achieve acceptable final refraction.
Peripapillary and macular retinoschisis - A vision-threatening sequelae of advanced glaucomatous cupping
Authors: Senthilkumar Vijayalakshmi A , Mishra Chitaranjan , Kannan Naresh B , Raj Priyanka
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

To present a selected case series of advanced glaucoma-associated peripapillary and macular retinoschisis and response to various treatment strategies with a comprehensive literature review.

Methods:

Retrospective observational case series. Retrospective review of five selected cases of advanced glaucoma with peripapillary and macular retinoschisis.

Results:

All five patients had advanced glaucomatous damage with macular and peripapillary retinoschisis, three (patients 2, 3, and 5) had a neurosensory detachment of the macula. Increased intraocular pressure was managed with maximal antiglaucoma medications and G6 micropulse diode laser treatment in the first patient, transscleral diode laser in the second patient, mitomycin-C augmented trabeculectomy in the third patient, maximal antiglaucoma medications alone in the fourth patient, pars plana vitrectomy followed by trabeculectomy in the fifth patient.

Conclusion:

We speculate that peripapillary and macular retinoschisis may indicate a vision-threatening sequelae of advanced glaucoma. The probable inciting factor for this vision-threatening pathology being elevated intraocular pressure, fluctuations in intraocular pressure, and chronic glaucoma with advanced cupping. We emphasize that meticulous examination of the macula in patients with advanced glaucoma is mandatory. It is imperative to do OCT macula in patients with advanced glaucoma to diagnose this distinct entity at an earlier stage and preserve the existing visual potential.
Safety and efficacy of corneal tissue harvested from organophosphorous deceased patients
Authors: Sarangi Swapna , Sahu Srikant K , Priyadarshini Smruti R , Das Sujata
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

To analyze the quality of tissues and outcome of corneal transplants from tissues harvested from the donors of organophosphorus poisoning victims.

Methods:

A retrospective study was carried out on corneas harvested from organophosphorus poisoning victims between January 2016 and December 2018. Details of quality of tissues and outcome following keratoplasty were collected from the eye bank and outpatient records, respectively.

Results:

Four hundred and seventy-eight donor corneas were collected from the victims of organophosphorus poisoning during the study period. The mean age of the donor was 38.8 ± 16.5 years. The mean donor-to-preservation time was 6.2 ± 3.2 hours. The mean endothelial cell density on specular microscopy was 2986.5 ± 369.0 cells/mm2. Four hundred and twenty-two (88.2%) donor corneas were utilized. Of the 121 corneas utilized at our institute for transplantation, 73 and 48 corneas were for optical and therapeutic/tectonic indications, respectively. Of the 73 optical grafts, 25 patients were lost-to-follow-up and 58.3% (28/48) who came for one-year follow-up were found to be clear.

Conclusion:

Donor corneas retrieved from organophosphorus poisoning are safe for transplantation. The postoperative outcome of the tissue utilized from these donors is satisfactory.
Clinical profile, diagnostic challenges, and outcomes in subacute/chronic cerebral sinus venous thrombosis
Authors: Sachdeva Virender , Nalawade Rohan , Kannam Mohan , Kapoor Rajat , Chattannavar Goura , Kale Sheetal Bajirao , Sheth Jenil , Badakere Akshay , Majhi Debasmita , Warkad Vivekanand Uttamrao , Chougule Pratik , Kekunnaya Ramesh
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

To report clinical profile, diagnostic challenges, and outcomes in cases of subacute/chronic cerebral sinus venous thrombosis (CSVT) presenting to neuro-ophthalmologists/neurologists.

Methods:

This was a multicentric, retrospective, observational study. Records of patients with neuroimaging proven subacute/chronic CSVT seen the from January 1, 2016 to March 31, 2020 were analyzed. Data collected included duration of symptoms, diagnosing physician, ophthalmological vs. focal/generalized neurological symptoms, optic disc examination, perimetry, and neuroimaging findings. Statistical analysis was performed using STATA software.

Results:

Forty-three patients with subacute (30)/chronic (13) CSVT were identified (32 males, 11 females). Median age was 37 (IQR 27–47) years. The presenting complaints were blurred vision 34 (79%), headaches in 25 (58%), vomiting 12 (28%), and diplopia 11 (26%). Eleven patients had associated sixth cranial nerve palsy. All but two patients had either disc edema/optic atrophy; four had unilateral disc edema at presentation. Ophthalmologists and neurologists diagnosed/suspected CSVT correctly in 13/29 (45%) and 11/14 (78.5%) patients, respectively. Most common initial alternate diagnosis was idiopathic intracranial hypertension in 12 (28%). Female gender, age ≤36, unilateral papilledema, not obtaining venogram at initial workup increased chances of initial alternate diagnosis. Median follow-up duration was 21 days. Average visual function remained stable in majority of patients at last follow-up. In total, 47.6% of patients had best-corrected visual acuity ≥20/30 at the final follow-up.

Conclusion:

In our series, subacute or chronic CSVT presented presented primarily with symptoms of intracranial hypertension. Unilateral papilledema, middle-aged patients, female gender, lack of focal/generalized neurological symptoms created diagnostic dilemma. Visual function remained stable in majority of patients.
Mitoquinol Mesylate Ameliorates Hematological Aberration in Cirrhotic-Hepatocellular Carcinogenic Rats
Authors: Sulaimon Lateef Adegboyega , Adisa Rahmat Adetutu , Abdulkareem Fatimah Biade
Published: November 2021

Introduction:

Hematological abnormalities such as anemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia experienced by cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy necessitate the need to develop agents that stimulate erythropoiesis and boost immune response in cancer.

Aim:

The present study investigated the effects of mitoquinol mesylate (MitoQ) on the hematological profile of diethyl nitrosamine (DEN)-induced cirrhotic-hepatocellular carcinogenic (HCC) rats.

Materials and Methods:

One hundred Wistar strain albino rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 20) for the experimental period of 20 weeks. Groups A, B, and C received distilled water, 10 mg/kg each of DEN and MitoQ respectively. Animals in Group D were pretreated with 10 mg/kg MitoQ for a week followed by coadministration of 10 mg/kg each of MitoQ and DEN for 20 weeks, while Group E received 10 mg/kg DEN for 8 weeks and then coadministration of 10 mg/kg each of DEN and MitoQ till the end of 20th week. Animals were sacrificed at the end of 12th, 16th, and 20th week. Blood samples were collected into labeled heparinized bottles for hematological analysis.

Results:

Administration of DEN significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the levels of red blood cell (RBC) count and erythrocytes indices. These erythrogram parameters were continuously deranging from 6.86 ± 0.26 to 2.69 ± 0.01, from 37.40 ± 1.99 to 30.35 ± 0.57, from 12.16 ± 0.97 to 8.90 ± 0.37 in the levels of RBC, packed cell volume, and hemoglobin, respectively, with the progression of HCC from cirrhosis to advanced HCC in Wistar rats. Further, the levels of white blood cells (WBCs, 3.68 ± 0.08), granulocytes (1.30 ± 0.06), lymphocytes (0.63 ± 0.11), and platelets (440.00 ± 22.67) were significantly reduced in the DEN group compared to healthy control (4.46 ± 0.12, 2.14 ± 0.27, 1.70 ± 0.13, and 685.80 ± 15.48 in the levels of WBC, granulocytes, lymphocytes, and platelets, respectively) at the advanced HCC stage. Interestingly, MitoQ interventions significantly (P < 0.05) reversed alterations in hematological indices induced by DEN toxicity.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that MitoQ is safe and capable of normalizing hematological abnormalities associated with cirrhosis and HCC in Wistar rats.
Application of CBCT Data and Three-Dimensional Printing for Endodontic Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Ballulaya Srinidhi Vishnu , Taufin Neha , Deepthi Nenavath , Devella Venu Babu
Published: November 2021

The combined CBCT and 3-d printing have found its endodontic application in pre-surgical planning models, endodontic access guides and localization of osteotomy preparation site. This article reports a series of three cases where this combined technology have been used. The first case report is of radicular dens invaginatus which was diagnosed by using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging and 3D plastic models of the tooth. The case was managed successfully by the combination of both surgical and non-surgical endodontic treatment. The second case report is the guided access preparation of lower anterior teeth. A 3D printed template was designed with the CBCT scan for the guided access cavity preparation and was compared with the conventional endodontic access cavity preparation. The third case report is the surgical template guided hemisection. A 3D surgical template was designed which allowed precise angulation of the bur and minimized the excess removal of tooth structure. Thus, the combined use of CBCT and 3D printing enabled visualization of complex root canal anatomies and allowed precise and accurate treatment.
Evaluation of Haematological Parameters and Oxidative Stress-Induced in Rats Exposed to Radio-Frequency Radiation from Mobile Phones
Authors: Ezemelue Priscilla Ngozi , Onyegbule D. Ugochukwu , Okoli Leona Chika , Kareem Kafilat Olaide , Awodele Olufunsho , Otitoloju Adebayo Akeem
Published: November 2021

Introduction:

The use of new wireless technologies emitting radio-frequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) radiation has been introduced worldwide, raising concerns about their biosafety. So far, there have been contradictory scientific reports which have led to active debates over the bio-effects of EMF on the ecosystem.

Aim:

This study, therefore, aims to evaluate the bio-effect of exposure to RF-EMF from a mobile phone simulator.

Materials and Methods:

The experimental study used 16 healthy albino rats (8 females/8 males) randomly selected and divided equally into two groups: Group A (8 rats exposed to mobile phone simulators) and Group C (8 rats as control); the study procedure was carried out for 6 weeks. The rats were examined for physical changes, hematological profiles, and serum oxidative stress (OS) biomarkers.

Results:

The outcome of the study showed that exposure to RF-EMF affected the weight of the animals; this is illustrated when comparing the baseline weight/final weight of the exposed as compared to the control. This trend was also replicated when compared across gender, though further analysis showed no significance across the two groups (P > 0.05). The result of the hematological analysis showed that only granulocytes (neutrophils, basophils, and eosinophils) showed significance (P = 0.04), while for OS biomarkers, the result showed that superoxide dismutase and catalase showed significant difference (P = 0.02), respectively, across the two groups.

Conclusion:

This study concludes that exposure to RF-EMF has an associated effect on hematology and OS induction and therefore recommends the adherence to the precautionary principle while further research has been carried out on their specific mechanism and site of action.
Feasibility and Safety of Retrograde Radical Cystectomy under Combined Spinal and Epidural Anesthesia in High-risk and Elderly Patients. A Single Surgeon Experience
Authors: Khawaja Abdul Rouf , Dar Yasir , Suhail Malik , Sofi Khalid , Muzaffar Prince , Parra Sajad , Malik Sajad , Bhat Arif , Wani Mohd
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

The purpose of the study is to study feasibility and safety of retrograde radical cystectomy (RC) under regional anesthesia (RA) in high-risk and elderly patients of muscle invasive bladder carcinoma.

Materials and Methods:

This study was an observational study, conducted in the department of urology, SKIMS, Kashmir, India, from 2012 to 2020. All patients underwent retrograde RC under RA.

Results:

Thirty-seven patients were operated with median follow-up period of 32 months and included 30 male and 7 female patients with median age of 74.5 years (70–83 years). The American Society of Anesthesiologists score was II in 20 patients, III in 15 patients, and IV in 2 patients. All the patients included in study had significant comorbidities. All patients were anemic and required preoperative blood transfusions for optimization. Total blood loss ranged from 200 to 900 ml (mean: 400 ml). Bilateral internal iliac artery was ligated preemptively in all patients. Total transfusion required ranged from one to six units (mean: 2 units). Number of lymph nodes removed ranged from 15 to 35 (mean: 20). Total peritoneal exposure time ranged from 0 to 70 min (mean: 50 min). None of the patient needed intensive care postoperatively. Gastrointestinal tract (GIT) recovery time ranged from 1 to 4 days (mean of 1.5 days). Total hospital stay ranged from 7 to 15 days (mean: 9 days). On follow-up, one patient had stent (feeding tube) fracture, and the residual fragment was managed by antegrade approach. One patient had ureteroileal anastomotic stricture which was managed by refashioning of the anastomosis (Bricker to Wallace). One patient had stomal stenosis with features of recurrent urinary tract infections and underwent refashioning of stoma with stabilization of renal function.

Conclusion:

To circumvent the need of postoperative ventilation, intensive care unit admission, and prolonged hospital stay, we advocate retrograde extraperitoneal RC under combined RA (CRA) as preferred approach of surgical intervention in high-risk and elderly patients with little abdominal organ disturbance and early bowel recovery.
Retroperitoneal Dedifferentiated Liposarcoma with a Compressed Invasion-free Kidney
Authors: Zhong Shang-Rong , Hsueh Thomas Y. , Chou Jung-Mao
Published: November 2021

A 68-year-old female patient presented an evident drop in weight within half a year. A heterogeneous huge tumor was found in the left retroperitoneal space through a nonenhanced abdominal computed tomography. The tumor contributed mass effect on adjacent organs and structures, with equivocal left kidney outline. Enhanced kidney magnetic resonance imaging illustrated its hyper-vascular content and clear border. Radical excision was performed through an open approach. The mass was 25 cm in length and weighed about 5 kg. Grossly, it was accompanied by a compressed but invasion-free kidney. The diagnosis of dedifferentiated liposarcoma was made, and a focally involved margin was identified. The average annual incidence of retroperitoneal sarcomas is 2.7 cases/million. Retroperitoneal soft-tissue sarcoma seldom induces symptoms until the tumor makes a mass effect on adjacent organs. The tumor of this patient stands out as the compressed, yet invasion-free left kidney. Surgical resection is regarded as the only potential curative therapy. Due to the large size at presentation and wide extent of the tumor, it often results in limited resectability or positive margin. Important prognostic factors of retroperitoneal sarcoma involve surgical margin, tumor grade, differentiation, and histologic subtype. Dedifferentiated liposarcoma has a worse prognosis and a positive gross margin implies a higher chance of local recurrence as well as a higher mortality rate.
Adult Balanoposthitis Patients Have a Higher Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Huang Chi-Ping , Lien Chi-Shun , Lee Sheng-Wei , Chang Chao-Hsiang , Lin Cheng-Li
Published: November 2021

Background:

We investigated the association between balanoposthitis and the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (type 2 DM) from a retrospective cohort study.

Methods:

From the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database (LHID) 2000, we selected male patients aged over 20 years and first diagnosed with balanoposthitis during 2000–2010. Men without balanoposthitis were also included in our analysis through frequency matching for age and index year. All participants were followed up until the diagnosis of type 2 DM. Diseases were coded in accordance with the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification. Baseline comorbidity history for each participant was determined from the LHID dataset. A multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression model was established, and a Kaplan–Meier survival curve was plotted.

Results:

The incidence of type 2 DM was higher in the balanoposthitis cohort than in the nonbalanoposthitis cohort (14.8 vs. 5.42/1000 person-years) with a hazard ratio of 2.55 (95% confidence interval = 2.22–2.92) after adjusting for age and other comorbidities. The incidence of type 2 DM increased with age in both cohorts. Balanitis patients with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or obesity had higher risks for type 2 DM than those without these conditions (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Men with balanoposthitis may have a higher risk of type 2 DM in the future. Therefore, clinical physicians should pay more attention to the early evaluation and management of type 2 DM in the patients with balanoposthitis.
Everted Saphenous Vein Graft (eSVG) Urethroplasty in Long-Segment Anterior Urethral Strictures
Authors: Rao Swatantra Nagendra , Khattar Nikhil , Akhtar Arif , Varshney Anuj , Goel Hemant
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

An everted saphenous vein graft (eSVG) has been used for urethroplasty in men with long segment anterior urethral stricture and chronic tobacco exposed oral mucosa with good initial results. The present study aimed to assess the medium-term outcomes of eSVG urethroplasty (eSVGU) in such patients.

Materials and Methods:

Prospectively maintained database of 32 patients with chronic tobacco exposed oral mucosa, who underwent an eSVGU for long segment anterior urethral stricture (≥9 cm), was reviewed. Outcomes were assessed with International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), uroflowmetry with postvoid residual urine at 1, 3, and 6 months, and thereafter 6 monthly symptomatic assessments. Retrograde urethrogram was done at 3 months and repeated only if there was a recurrence. Successful urethroplasty was defined as satisfactory voiding (maximum flow rate [Qmax] >15 ml/sec) and no need for any auxiliary procedures in follow-up. Patients who lost to follow-up before 3 years were excluded from the final analysis. Data from the patients were recorded on a spreadsheet and expressed as mean and standard deviation wherever feasible.

Results:

Mean stricture length was 13.75 cm. Two patients were lost to follow-up after 12 months and were excluded from the final analysis. At a mean follow-up of 58 months, 19 patients (63.33%) were voiding successfully with mean IPSS 8.15 and Qmax 23.54 ml/s respectively, while 11 patients (36.67%) required auxiliary procedures and were considered failed.

Conclusion:

Medium-term results suggest that an eSVG can be considered as a good alternative graft for urethroplasty in patients with long anterior urethral strictures.
Performing Laparoscopic Radical Cystectomy is feasible for the elderly with marginal cardiopulmonary function
Authors: Lin Jian-Hui , Chiu Kuo-Hsiung , Ho Dong-Ru , Huang Yung-Chin , Huang Kuo-Tsai , Chen Chih-Shou , Lin Wei Yu
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to report the feasibility, safety, and benefits of laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) for patients with bladder cancer (BC) who are older than 75 years and with marginal cardiopulmonary function in a regional teaching hospital.

Materials and Methods:

The charts of thirty patients who underwent LRC between 2013 and 2016 in a community teaching hospital were reviewed. The patients were subgrouped into the age groups ≥75 years and <75 years. Data extracted from the charts included patient demographics, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Score, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) Score, cardiopulmonary function test result, pathological results, conversion rate, operative time, Intensive Care Unit days, and postoperative recovery time.

Results:

A significant difference was observed in the data of the group ≥75 years group compared with the <75 years group, with a higher ASA score (P = 0.0007) and higher rate of marginal cardiopulmonary function (80% vs. 26.7%, P = 0.0092). No significant difference was observed in sex, CCI score (3.93 vs. 3.27), body mass index (24.8 vs. 24.4), ejection fraction (69% vs. 70.97%), operation time (473 vs. 465 min), blood loss (503 vs. 380 mL), urinary diversion type, Intensive Care Unit care (1.13 vs. 0.6 days), interval to ambulation (2 vs. 1.8 days), interval to oral food intake (3.2 vs. 2.6 days), interval to normal bowel function (4.6 vs. 3.6 days), postoperative hospitalization (15.67 vs. 11.67 days), and blood transfusion rate (33.3% vs. 26.7%) between the two groups. No conversion to open surgery or mortality was observed. Surgical complications occurred in 15 patients, with a complication rate of 50%. No surgical mortality was noted in 30 or 90 days. Most pathological cases revealed urothelial carcinoma.

Conclusions:

LRC is a safe option with favorable outcomes in BC patients older than 75 years with marginal cardiopulmonary function in a regional teaching hospital.
О дистанционно регулярных графах $\Gamma$ диаметра 3, для которых $\Gamma_3$ - граф без треугольников
Authors: Makhnev Aleksandr Alekseevich , Guo Wen Bin
Published: November 2021

Имеются известные дистанционно регулярные графы $\Gamma$ диаметра 3, для которых $\Gamma_3$ - граф без треугольников. Например, граф Джонсона $J(8,3)$ с массивом пересечений $\{15,8,3;1,4,9\}$. В работе решается задача о существовании дистанционно регулярных графов $\Gamma$ с массивами пересечений $\{78,50,9;1,15,60\}$ и $\{174,110,18;1,30,132\}$, для которых $\Gamma_3$ - граф без треугольников.
Локальная предельная теорема для числа пустых ячеек при случайных равновероятных размещениях
Authors: Orlov Oleg Pavlovich
Published: November 2021

Рассматривается классическая схема случайного равновероятного размещения $n$ частиц по $N$ ячейкам. Найдена асимптотика вероятности того, что число пустых ячеек равно $k$, если $n, N \to \infty$ так, что $n/(N - k)$ ограничено и отделено снизу от единицы.