bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Environments around Quasars at z ∼ 3 Revealed by Wide-field Imaging with Subaru HSC and CFHT
Authors: Suzuki Yuta , Uchiyama Hisakazu , Matsuoka Yoshiki , Toshikawa Jun , Gwyn Stephen , Imanishi Masatoshi , Liu Chengze , Noboriguchi Akatoki , Sawicki Marcin , Toba Yoshiki 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
We examine the local density environments around 67 quasars at z ∼ 3 by combining the imaging data of Hyper Suprime-Cam Subaru Strategic Program and Canada–France–Hawaii Telescope Large Area U-band Deep Survey over about 20 deg2. Our measurements exploit U-dropout galaxies in the vicinities of quasars taken from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. We find that the quasars have an indistinguishable surrounding density distribution from the U-dropout galaxies and that three quasars are associated with protocluster candidates within a projected separation of 3′. According to a halo evolutionary model, our results suggest that quasars at this epoch occupy haloes with a typical mass of

1.3

−
0.9

+
1.4

×

10

13

h

−
1

M

⊙

. We also investigate the dependence of the local galaxy overdensity on ultraviolet (UV) luminosities, black hole masses, and proximity zone sizes of the quasars, but no statistically significant correlation was found. Finally, we find that the local density of faint U-dropout galaxies are lower than that of bright U-dropout galaxies within a projected distance of 0.51 ± 0.05 physical Mpc, where the quasar UV radiation is 30 times more intense than background UV radiation. We argue that photoevaporation may suppress galaxy formation at short distances where the quasar UV intensity is strong, even in massive haloes.
Light Scattering Measurements of KCl Particles as an Exoplanet Cloud Analog
Authors: Hamill Colin D. , Johnson Alexandria V. , Gao Peter 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Salt clouds are predicted to be common on warm exoplanets, but their optical properties are uncertain. The Exoplanet Cloud Ensemble Scattering System (ExCESS), a new apparatus to measure the scattering intensity and degree of linear polarization for an ensemble of particles, is introduced here and used to study the light scattering properties of KCl cloud analogs. ExCESS illuminates particles with a polarized laser beam (532 nm) and uses a photomultiplier tube detector to sweep the plane of illumination. Scattering measurements for KCl particles were collected for three size distributions representative of modeled clouds for the warm exoplanet GJ 1214b. Our measurements show that Lorenz–Mie calculations, commonly used to estimate the light scattering properties of assumedly spherical cloud particles, offer an inaccurate depiction of cubic and cuboid KCl particles. All of our measurements indicate that Lorenz–Mie scattering overestimates the backscattering intensity of our cloud analogs and incorrectly predicts the scattering at mid-phase angles (∼90°) and the preferential polarization state of KCl scattered light. Our results align with the general scattering properties of nonspherical particles and underscore the importance of further understanding the effects that such particles will have on radiative transfer models of exoplanet atmospheres and reflected light observations of exoplanets by the upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope and Habitable Worlds Observatory.
Temporal Variations of 222Rn Density Distributions in the Lunar Exosphere
Authors: Lai Ian-Lin , Ip Wing-Huen 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Because of radiogenic processes, the lunar interior is a source of rare gases like helium (4He), argon (40Ar), and radon (222Rn) that might be released continuously, or impulsively during moonquakes. The detection of radon is therefore important in the sense that it can help trace the crustal dynamics on the Moon. In this study, we will introduce a Monte Carlo–based model designed to investigate the time-dependent transient dynamics of the lunar 222Rn exosphere. Our model accounts for the background emission and transient ejection of gas molecules from the lunar surface, encompassing loss processes such as radioactive decay, photoionization, and the cold trapping in permanently shadowed regions near the poles. Additionally, it incorporates the diurnal temperature fluctuations of the lunar surface, which significantly influence the condensation duration of the radon atoms and their subsequent release near the sunrise. This model also can support future observations in missions such as Chang’E 6 or other lunar explorations.
Freeze-dried erythromycin nanocrystals: preparation, characterisation, antimicrobial activity, and aerodynamic properties
Authors: Abu Ershaid Juhaina M. , Abudoleh Suha M. , Lafi Dima N. 
Published: August 2024

Background: This study aims to present the development and evaluation of freeze-dried erythromycin nanocrystals to enhance the solubility, dissolution rate, and antibacterial potency of erythromycin.
Results: Erythromycin nanocrystals had a particle size of 239.3 ± 24.6 nm with 0.17 ± 0.01 PDI. Erythromycin nanocrystals had significantly higher saturation solubility and a faster dissolution rate compared to coarse erythromycin. Nanocrystals showed a high drug content of 92.69% ± 2.82, while the aerodynamic characteristics demonstrated an emitted dose (ED%) of 83.68% ± 5.32 with a mass median aerodynamic diameter of 2.13 µm. Around half reduction of the minimum inhibitory concentrations were observed against P. aeruginosa and E. coli (125 µg and 62.5 µg, respectively).
Conclusion: The nanocrystal formulation of erythromycin presented in this study holds promise as an innovative approach to enhance the solubility, dissolution rate, and antibacterial activity of erythromycin for effective pulmonary administration.

Graphical abstract
Impact of Uterine Fibroids on Perceived Health-Related Quality of Life among Women in Selected Tertiary Institutions across Nigeria: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Adekunle Akinola Lateef , Ehiabhi Okohue Jude , Alade Adewole Adebayo , Abisowo Oshodi Yusuf , Rebecca Akinajo Opeyemi , Chiedozie Anolue Fredrick , Adamu Ibrahim Saidu , Abubakar Kadas Saidu , Oladele Obajimi Gbolahan , Bukola Afolabi Bosede 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Uterine fibroids can be associated with poor health-related quality of life (HRQoL) when symptomatic. Our objective was to assess the severity of uterine fibroid symptoms (UFSs) and its impact on perceived HRQoL among women with uterine fibroids attending selected secondary and tertiary health institutions across Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:
This was a prospective and questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey. Data collected included demographics, symptoms severity, medical/gynecological history, mental health status, perceived HRQoL, and myomectomy benefits. The study was conducted between May 1, 2019 and August 31, 2019, across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria, namely: Northeast, Northwest, North Central, South–South, Southeast, and Southwest zones, including Lagos. A total of 464 women were interviewed.

Results:
The average age of the respondents was 37 years (range 18–59 years). About 81%–87% experienced UFS-related menstrual disorders, with 50% experiencing moderate to severe symptoms. Overall, up to 70% of the women indicated that UFS impacted their HRQoL, with the majority reporting moderate to severe impact across all domains, including concern (55.6 ± 26.6), control (54.3 ± 26.4), self-conscious (53.5 ± 27.3), energy/mood (52.1 ± 24.5), and sexual function (49.1 ± 26.4). About 75% reported improvements after myomectomy.

Conclusion:
This study revealed that a significant number of women with uterine fibroids had symptoms affecting their perceived HRQoL. Many of the respondents reported a decreased overall HRQoL with significant improvement after myomectomy. Early recourse to definitive care is therefore imperative in the quest to improve overall HRQoL, including reproductive health.
Assessment of Central Vault Changes induced By Cyclopentolate In Myopic Patients Implanted with the Implantable Phakic Contact Lens®
Authors: Elbakry Amr A. , Attia Manal A. , El Shiwy Hoda T. , Hassanein Ahmed , Sidky Mohamed K. 
Published: August 2024

Background
A safe alternative to excimer laser in fixing high myopia is the implantable phakic contact lens (IPCL). Cycloplegics have been found to produce vault changes in the implantable collamer lens but not tested yet for the IPCL.

Purpose
To analyze central vault changes linked with instillation of cyclopentolate in myopic IPCL implanted patients and its association with anterior chamber depth (ACD), pupillary diameter, and white-to-white (WTW) diameter.

Patients and methods
This prospective study assessed the left eyes of 37 patients. Patients were followed up for 3 months postoperatively. The basic outcome measures were the safety and efficacy indices, while the main outcome was the vault measurements before and after cyclopentolate.

Results
Twenty (54.1%) females and 17 (45.9%) males, with a mean age of 24±4 years (18–32) were recruited. The safety index was 1.08±0.07 and the efficacy index was 0.99±0.1. There was a significant increase in central vault ‘V(C)’ after cyclopentolate [83.7±86.7 μm (−48 to 303); P<0.001). A good positive correlation existed between V(C) and ACD (r=0.7, P<0.001), and a fair correlation with pupil diameter (r=0.4, P=0.014), WTW (r=0.39, P=0.017), and the original vault ‘V(B)’ (r=0.34, P=004) was demonstrated.

Conclusion
Cyclopentolate induces an increase in central vault in most IPCL implanted myopic eyes, which is typically associated with ACD, pupillary diameter, WTW, and the original vault. Care should be advised to avoid angle narrowing.
Toric implantable phakic contact lens versus bioptics for the correction of moderate to high myopia and astigmatism
Authors: Elbakry Amr A. , Sobhi Rania M. , Hassanein Ahmed , El Shiwy Hoda T. 
Published: August 2024

Purpose
To compare refractive and visual outcomes and patient satisfaction of toric implantable phakic contact lens (T-IPCL) versus bioptics (IPCL followed by femtosecond laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis) in myopia (moderate to high) with astigmatism.

Patients and methods
A total of 13 eyes underwent T-IPCL implantation, and 11 eyes were corrected using bioptics. Complications, uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuities, refraction, safety, efficacy, predictability, tear-film break-up time, contrast sensitivity, and patient satisfaction were assessed 6 months postoperatively.

Results
No complications were reported. Mean spherical equivalent was −0.62±0.49 D in T-IPCL and −0.55±0.26 D in the bioptics group (P=0.464). In 10 (76.9%) eyes of T-IPCL and 11 (100%) eyes of bioptics, the spherical equivalent and astigmatism were within ±1 D, respectively. A significantly better astigmatic correction was demonstrated in the bioptics group as confirmed by vector analysis (P<0.001). Loss of lines was not reported; both uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuities improved significantly (P<0.05), with no significant differences (P>0.05). Safety indices were 1.15±0.08 and 1.1±0.09 and efficacy indices were 1.04±0.11 and 1.03±0.06 in T-IPCL and bioptics groups, respectively, which were insignificant. The contrast sensitivity and tear-film break-up time were significantly better in the T-IPCL group (P<0.001). Distant vision satisfaction was better in the bioptics group, whereas glare, halos, and dry eye satisfaction were better in the T-IPCL group (P<0.05).

Conclusion
Both T-IPCL and bioptics can successfully correct moderate to high myopia with astigmatism. The T-IPCL carries better optical quality with less glare, halos, and dry eye. Bioptics gives better astigmatic correction and distant vision satisfaction but carries the risk of a second surgical intervention.
Evaluation of diabetic macular edema by using optical coherence tomography in patients underwent combined phacoemulsification and intravitreal ranibizumab injection versus patients underwent sequential intravitreal ranibizumab injection and phacoemulsification: an observational study
Authors: El-Behaidy Mohamed T. , Mohamed Ezz Eldein G. , Dabour Sherif A. , Al-Naimy Mohammed A. , Elhiny Rasha S. 
Published: August 2024

Purpose
To compare combined phacoemulsification and intravitreal Ranibizumab (RBZ) injection versus sequential Intravitreal Raibizumab injection and phacoemulsification on the progression of diabetic macular edema (DME) both clinically (through best corrected visual acuity) and by optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Setting and design
This observational study was conducted in October 6 University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology.

Patient and methods
Patients with non-ischemic diabetic macular edema (DME); along with, clinically significant cataract were randomly divided into two groups. Both groups received three intravitreal 0.5 mg/0.05 ml RBZ injections on monthly basis. Group (I), received the first dose combined with phacoemulsification followed by the other two injections, one and two months postoperatively. Group (II), received the first dose two weeks before phacoemulsification followed by the other two injections, one and two months from the first one.

Results
The baseline mean central macular thickness (CMT) was comparable in both groups (P>0.05); however, the CMT one month after the third injection was 261±36 µm for Group (II) vs 320±65 µm for Group (I), which was statistically significant (P<0.001). Both study groups were comparable regarding the baseline mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (P>0.05); however, the mean BCVA at the end of follow-up was 0.32±0.23 LogMAR for Group (II) vs 0.50±0.19 LogMAR for Group (I), which was statistically significant (P<0.001).

Conclusion
Intravitreal RBZ injection has a significant clinical improving effect on both CMT and BCVA in diabetic patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) undergoing phacoemulsification; although, it is preferred to inject a single intravitreal injection two weeks before phacoemulsification to reach its peak effect in counteracting the high levels of VEGF released during the surgery.
Cauterized conjunctival autograft with and without mitomycin C in primary pterygium surgery
Authors: Enany Hesham A. , Elsayed Tamer G. , Dessouky Reem A. 
Published: August 2024

Aim
To compare between the outcomes of cauterized conjunctival autograft (CA) with and without mitomycin C (MMC) in primary pterygium surgery.

Patients and methods
This prospective interventional comparative study included 50 eyes in 50 patients with primary pterygium. Patients were randomly assigned into two equal groups: group 1 underwent pterygium excision with cauterized CA fixation, and group 2 underwent pterygium excision with cauterized CA fixation and intraoperative application of 0.02% MMC for 3 min. All patients underwent a preoperative, first day, first week, first month, third month, and sixth month postoperative ophthalmic examination. Any intraoperative or postoperative complications were recorded. Primary outcomes were reported as incidence of recurrence and any major (sight threatening) complications. Secondary outcomes were reported as any minor complications.

Results
A total of 50 patients (28 males and 22 females, with male to female ratio 1 : 1.3) were included in this study. Complications encountered in our study included recurrence of pterygium, which occurred in one (4%) eye in group 1 and 0 eyes in group 2. Two (8%) eyes in group 1 versus one (4%) eye in group 2 showed subconjunctival hemorrhage, one (4%) eye in group 2 showed focal scleral thinning, and one (4%) eye in group 2 showed a corneal epithelial defect. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding the incidence of any complication (P>0.05).

Conclusion
Cauterized CA without MMC is a safe and effective procedure for the surgical treatment of primary pterygium. There was no added benefit to intraoperative MMC application.
Comparison between MyoRing and 355°KERATACx in the management of keratoconus
Authors: Edrees Eman S.M. , Zaher Fekry M.F. , Assaf Ahmed H.S. , Yousef Mohamed O. , Ebeid Ahmed A.A. 
Published: August 2024

Background
Intracorneal implants have been proposed over the years as a possible easier way for managing keratoconus, having a favorable influence on the course of the disease. KERATACx is a relatively new form of intracorneal ring segments that has been recently introduced but not thoroughly studied regarding its safety and efficacy. Moreover, implanting a complete intrastromal ring into a corneal pocket, MyoRing (Dioptex GmbH, Austria), is an alternative technique, which can be considered safe, effective, and relatively easy for the treatment of keratoconus.

Aim
To compare between the effect of MyoRing and KERATACx corneal implants as new modalities of treatment on the visual acuity, as well as assess corneal topography findings in cases with moderate to severe keratoconus.

Patients and methods
Our study is a prospective comparative study conducted at specialized eye centers in Cairo. A total of 20 keratoconic eyes were eventually recruited. Overall, 10 of those eyes had 355° intracorneal ring segment implants (KERATACx ring segments) inserted into a femtosecond laser-created corneal tunnel at a depth of 75% of the thinnest location at the proposed tunnel site (group A), whereas the other 10 eyes had complete ring (MyoRing) implantation into a femtosecond laser-created corneal pocket at a 300-μm corneal depth (group B), by the same designated surgeon. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Ain-Shams University.

Results
Both types were proven to be statistically effective, with no statistically significant differences between the two groups related to any of the followed up parameters. In fact, both proved safe, effective, and reliable methods for managing keratoconus, with no difference of importance even to the degree of myopic refractive error correction. There were no significant intraoperative or postoperative complications reported within both groups throughout the whole study and follow-up period, but in turn, stability of the achieved results was found in both groups.

Conclusion
Both MyoRing and KERATACx were found to be equally effective, safe, and reliable methods for keratoconus management.
Studying the effect of preoperative topical antibiotic drops on anterior chamber contamination after phacoemulsification
Authors: Elashri Mohammed , Ghazy Amany A. , Elkemary Nesma M. , Sadik Nashwa , Eissa Ahmed M. 
Published: August 2024

Objective
Despite the application of aseptic protocols and the technical improvements of intraocular surgery, acute endophthalmitis is still noticed after cataract surgery. Presurgical prophylaxis was suggested to reduce the incidence of postcataract endophthalmitis. However, there is no clear protocol to follow.

Aim
The current study aimed to investigate the effect of preoperative topical antibiotics on anterior segment contamination in patients with cataract after phacoemulsification or phacotrabeculectomy.

Patients, methods, and analysis
The study enrolled 55 patients who underwent phacoemulsification or phacotrabeculectomy and intraocular lens implantation; 28 patients have used preoperative antibiotic drops (moxifloxacin 0.3%), and 27 patients did not use antibiotics. Anterior chamber (AC) aspirates were collected to determine the anterior segment microbial profile using microscopic examination and microbial cultures.

Results
All AC aspirates (100%) of the first group did not show any microbial growth on any culture media. However, bacterial growth was noted in three (11.1%) aspirates of the second group when cultured on blood, chocolate agar, and thioglycolate broth. Microscopic examination revealed Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus subtilis. All aspirates did not show any growth on Sabouraud dextrose agar. All patients were followed up after 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months. Their ophthalmologic examinations were free of any abnormities.

Conclusion
Despite taking all the precautionary measures dictated by best practice guidelines for cataract surgery, there is minimal risk of AC bacterial contamination. Thus, the application of preoperative topical antibiotic drops is recommended for all cases.
Efficacy of sonic and ultrasonic activation on irrigant penetration in different tapered preparations: An in vitro study
Authors: Sowmya M. Rama , Teja Kavalipurapu Venkata , Solete Pradeep , Choudhari Sahil , Antony S Delphine Priscilla , Mustafa Mohammed 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

Aim:
The present study aims to evaluate the irrigant penetration in extracted single-rooted teeth using various irrigant activation systems in different tapered preparations.

Methods:
One hundred and twenty-four single-rooted teeth were selected for the present study. They were standardized at the level of cementoenamel junction and shaped to 30 size using 4% and 6% taper rotary instruments under a standard irrigation regimen. Once the complete root canal preparations were done based on activation protocols, they were divided into four groups as Group 1: Four percent preparation sonic activation (n = 31), Group 2: Six percent preparation sonic activation (n = 31), Group 3: Four percent preparation ultrasonic activation (n = 31), and Group 4: Six percent preparation ultrasonic activation (n = 31). A radiopaque solution in conjunction with radiography was utilized to evaluate the penetration of irrigants into the canal. Radiographs were taken after dye injection to measure the length of irrigant penetration in each technique. Results were statistically analyzed using SPSS software. One-way ANOVA and Post hoc Tukey tests were performed.

Results:
The results of the study revealed that ultrasonic activation after 6% taper instrumentation was better followed by ultrasonic activation after 4% taper instrumentation (P < 0.05). The results revealed a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) between the irrigation techniques.

Conclusion:
Ultrasonic irrigant activation proved to be a better and an effective technique for cleaning the root canal.
Solid ovarian tumor: A diagnostic and management dilemma
Authors: Naik Sejal Rahul , Jinjala Sonal Dahyabhai 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Pure Sertoli cell tumors (SCTs) are an uncommon type of ovarian sex cord–stromal tumor. The variety of symptoms, solid in nature and different histopathological presentation make it difficult the proper diagnosis and optimal treatment regimens in such tumor. Due to nonspecific clinical appearance, diagnosis is mistaken by ultrasound as fibroid or uterine mass. Intraoperative surprises and suspicious for malignancy due to the solid nature of the tumor lead to surgical management dilemma. The diagnosis is confirmed by histopathological examination only. The prognosis is excellent as most are detected in the early stages and surgical management is often curative in most cases. In this case, a 22 year old unmarried female presented to us with irregular periods for 5 years. Her trans-abdominal ultrasound revealed a solid hypoechoic mass of 5 x 6 centimeter size, in close approximate to the uterus on the right side, with probable diagnosis of broad ligament fibroid. On operative laparoscopy, uterus and left ovary was normal, the mass was originated from the right ovary, which was removed and its histopathological and immunohistochemistry report shows elevated alpha inhibin and steroidogenic factor 1 (SF 1) (Sex cord stromal marker) which is suggestive pure Sertoli cell tumor. There was no family/personal history of malignancy. She was treated with surgical resection and remains clear of disease. Prognostic indicators for SCTs include degree and type of heterologous element differentiation. Thorough characterization of such elements is crucial for adequate diagnosis and treatment.