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Background: Myringoplasty is the most effective method for the closure of chronic tympanic perforations, fat graft as support for epithelialization has a low success rate for perforations > 30%, the use of platelet-rich plasma promises an adjuvant role in the regeneration of the tympanic membrane in perforations > 25% and <50%. Objective: To demonstrate the rate of successful of myringoplasty with fat graft with platelet-rich plasma in tympanic membrane perforations less than 50% compared to fat graft alone. Material and methods: Clinical, randomized, controlled study. 60 patients were included with perforation of less than 50%, both sexes, without active infection, suspicion of ossicular pathology or history of mastoidectomy. Divided into two groups: Group A, 30 patients who underwent myringoplasty with fat graft and Group B, 30 patients with the same technique and platelet-rich plasma. Groups were subdivided by perforation size: Subgroup 1 (0-25%) and Subgroup 2 (26-50%). Results: At one month of postsurgical follow up, the tympanic membrane perforation closure success rate was significantly higher in group B compared to group A, p = 0.047. Subgroup 1: closure of 56% and 66.6% for group A and B, subgroup 2: with 0 and 13%. Conclusions: Myringoplasty with fat graft with platelet-rich plasma enriched is recommended as a treatment option for first line of medium-sized tympanic perforations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minerals flotation is a widely used process to produce base metal concentrates through the selective capture of particles on the surface of bubbles. The process performance depends on the size distribution of the bubble population generated by gas dispersion, which is characterized by three variables: superficial gas velocity, gas holdup, and bubble size. A literature review revealed that current instrumentation cannot provide reliable on-line measurement of these variables except for gas velocity. There are some promising alternatives for gas holdup, but bubble size measurement will continue to be unavailable. The use of a model that integrates the three gas dispersion variables makes possible the calculation of one of the variables when knowing the values of the other two. Modelling bubble flow has been pursued using two approaches: determining the bubble terminal velocity reduction by the presence of other bubbles and regarding the bubble swarm as a packed bed through which a fluid is allowed to flow. Models based on these approaches (drift-flux and Molerus, respectively) were found in the literature and used to assess their prediction ability. Gas holdup predictions for known values of gas velocity and bubble size showed similar trends for both models; Molerus results were always higher than those obtained with the drift-flux model, and the difference between both predictions increased with bubble size and gas velocity. A relationship between bubble surface area flux and gas holdup was explored (a single line was expected); Molerus values showed a noticeable effect of bubble size, while drift-flux results showed a minor effect of bubble size only for gas holdups below 10%. Model accuracy was established using a data set collected to characterize frother roles in flotation for six commercial frothers, which included values of the three gas dispersion variables measured simultaneously and reported at the same conditions. The results indicate that bubble size predictions obtained from Molerus model are closer to the measured values than those obtained from the drift-flux model. Drift-flux predictions systematically underestimated the measured bubble size, with relative errors between 10 and 30%, while Molerus predictions showed values around the measured size with relative errors not larger than 15% (and in most cases below 10%). The accuracy of the Molerus predictions is acceptable for applications in the control of individual cells and flotation circuits operation. Further testing to assess the performance of Molerus model with data collected in lab and industrial mechanical cells and columns, where conditions in the test volume may not be stable or homogeneous, is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shock waves, as used in medicine, can induce cell permeabilization, genetically transforming filamentous fungi; however, little is known on the interaction of shock waves with the cell wall. Because of this, the selection of parameters has been empirical. We studied the influence of shock waves on the germination of Aspergillus niger, to understand their effect on the modulation of four genes related to the growth of conidia. Parameters were varied in the range reported in protocols for genetic transformation. Vials containing conidia in suspension were exposed to either 50, 100 or 200 single-pulse or tandem shock waves, with different peak pressures (approximately 42, 66 and 83 MPa). In the tandem mode, three delays were tested. To equalize the total energy, the number of tandem "events" was halved compared to the number of single-pulse shock waves. Our results demonstrate that shock waves do not generate severe cellular effects on the viability and germination of A. niger conidia. Nevertheless, increase in the aggressiveness of the treatment induced a modification in four tested genes. Scanning electron microscopy revealed significant changes to the cell wall of the conidia. Under optimized conditions, shock waves could be used for several biotechnological applications, surpassing conventional techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flotation is a complex process that exhibits high dimensionality which makes modeling and optimization very challenging. One technique to alleviate the dimensionality problem is to combine variables together into more informative ones. Bubble surface area flux and air recovery are examples of dimensionality reduction. Gas holdup also captures the effect of a plurality of variables including gas rate, bubble size, surfactant type, and concentration. This work makes use of a dual flotation–conductivity cell to explore the relationship between gas dispersion properties, including frother concentration and flotation performance. Results demonstrate that gas holdup effectively captured the effect of gas rate and frother concentration and better correlates to flotation performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was to test the effect of training impure tact versus pure tact and intraverbals on the emergence of new verbal operants (impure tacts), thus establishing a conceptual and methodological differentiation on these operants. This was done by varying the training order of intraverbal or impure tact to analyze and confirm whether or not impure tact is the mere sum of pure tact plus intraverbal and therefore has different functions and consequences in learning. An experiment was conducted with 30 participants randomly assigned to three groups. In Group 1, pure tact plus intraverbal and then impure tact were trained. In Group 3 the training order of these operants was counterbalanced. Group 2 was the control group, training only pure tact plus intraverbal. After the training phases, the emergence of impure tacts was tested. The results of this research indicate that the training of impure tacts favors the emergence of new impure tacts to a greater extent than the training of pure tact plus intraverbal and that they therefore have different functions. It is also shown that variation in the order of presentation of the type of training influences the subsequent emergence of new operants (impure tacts), so that creating a previous history of learning in impure tacts favors emergence even when the intraverbal alone is subsequently trained. This has important implications at both conceptual and methodological levels as it would contribute to the development of more effective language training technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effect of bubble shape on the terminal velocity of bubbles of three sizes (aspect ratio increased by frother addition and higher liquid medium viscosity). [Display omitted] • Bubble terminal velocity and aspect ratio are linked; corresponding maxima/minima reached at the same time. • Bubbles smaller than 5 mm rise in pure liquids with mobile surfaces and spherical and oblate spheroidal shapes. • Bubbles smaller than 5 mm rise in highly contaminated solutions with rigid surfaces and spherical shapes. • Models to predict bubble terminal velocities as a function of size do not produce reliable results. • Models to predict bubble terminal velocity must consider bubble shape parameters to work. Minerals flotation is a process that involves the formation of a population of bubbles to produce a concentrate by selective capture and separation of particles of valuable hydrophobic minerals on the surface of bubbles. The bubble rising velocity is a crucial piece of information for developing operating and control strategies, and for estimating metallurgical performance of flotation circuits. Bubble rising velocities depend on their size and on the physicochemical characteristics of the surrounding liquid medium. Velocities in pure liquids are the largest possible because gas-liquid interfaces remain clean and fully mobile allowing circulation of the gas phase, but when surfactants and ions from soluble mineral species are present (contaminated liquid), which is the case in minerals flotation, a molecular arrangement of adsorbed molecules develops on the surface of the bubbles. This structure reduces bubble surface mobility as internal gas circulation is restricted, velocity is reduced, and shape evolves from oblate spheroidal to spherical. Models proposed to predict the terminal velocity of bubbles have been devised, in general, for working at two extreme sets of conditions: bubbles rising either with fully mobile surfaces in pure liquids, or with rigid surfaces in highly contaminated liquids. The purpose of this work was the assessment of bubble velocity predictions of models that have been used in flotation applications; a data set of simultaneous measurement of velocity and shape of rising single bubbles under a broad set of conditions relevant for minerals flotation was used. The results demonstrated that bubble velocity and aspect ratio were intrinsically linked, and for bubbles of the same size, consistent trends between terminal velocity and aspect ratio that included measurements in frother and polymer solutions. Measurements in solutions of four frothers showed, as expected, significantly different terminal-velocity reduction trends as the frother concentrations were increased. This was considered as a demonstration that the frother molecular structure and the extent of equilibrium coverage were frother dependent. Model assessment demonstrated that prediction of terminal velocities was not possible for contaminated solutions with frother concentrations below the levels that get bubble surfaces fully covered. The measurements collected in this work were used to develop an empirical model for predicting bubble velocities as a function of aspect ratio; the comparison of measured and predicted velocities had a correlation coefficient of 0.9987. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy and safety of platelet rich plasma (PRP) as an adjuvant for tympanoplasty for perforations of the tympanic membrane with butterfly cartilage graft vs tympanoplasty with cartilage graft only. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A randomized, controlled, clinical trial, including patients with tympanic membrane perforation, divided into two groups. Group 1 underwent endomeatal tympanoplasty with butterfly cartilage graft without PRP and group 2 underwent same tympanoplasty technique and PRP was added. The size of the tympanic perforation was assessed preoperatively, and the follow up included persistence for 8 weeks postoperatively in both groups. RESULTS: The index of healing of the tympanic membrane was higher with the tympanoplasty that used the PRP compared to the control group, with statistical significance (p = 0.026) at the end of the follow-up (8 weeks). The patients in the experimental group had an evolution period (chronicity) of 18-24 months since their diagnosis, with significant statistical difference (p = 0.039). CONCLUSIONS: The healing of the tympanic membrane is superior with the use of PRP as adjuvant in endomeatal tympanoplasty with butterfly cartilage graft despite the time of chronicity; during the follow-up, no patient in the study presented with adverse effects derived from the procedure or to the application of PRP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research explored the effect of teaching conditional discriminations with three procedures on the derivation of 36 stimuli relations (derived relations). The stimuli used consisted of three characteristics musical instruments, along with the corresponding picture. In the first experiment six university students were trained with simple stimuli and tested with compound auditory–visual samples; therefore, a one‐to‐many structure was used. In the second experiment, auditory stimuli were replaced by visual stimuli, for the samples used, for new students. A third experiment was implemented with an extra phase of training with compound stimuli for six new students. The structure of the experiments was: pretests (Xbcd–A; Xacd–B; Xabd–C; Xabc–D), training (A–B; A–C; A–D), and posttests (same as pretests). The difference between these conditions was the kind of stimuli used and a new phase of teaching used in condition 3: (Xbcd–A). The results indicate that training with simple stimuli on discriminations that include stimuli that are easy to discriminate from each other (words and sounds) is a sufficient condition for good posttest performance. However, when comparisons are made difficult (words only), participants show better performance on new tests if they have a learning history with compound stimuli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatial missions such as the Kepler mission, and the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) mission, have encouraged data scientists to analyze light curve datasets. The purpose of analyzing these data is to look for planet transits, with the aim of discovering and validating exoplanets, which are planets found outside our Solar System. Furthermore, transiting exoplanets can be better characterized when light curves and radial velocity curves are available. The manual examination of these datasets is a task that requires big quantities of time and effort, and therefore is prone to errors. As a result, the application of machine learning methods has become more common on exoplanet discovery and categorization research. This survey presents an analysis on different exoplanet transit discovery algorithms based on machine learning, some of which even found new exoplanets. The analysis of these algorithms is divided into four steps, namely light curve preprocessing, possible exoplanet signal detection, and identification of the detected signal to decide whether it belongs to an exoplanet or not. We propose a model to create synthetic datasets of light curves, and we compare the performance of several machine learning models used to identify transit exoplanets, with inputs preprocessed with and without using the Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT). Our experimental results allow us to conclude that multiresolution analysis in the time-frequency domain can improve exoplanet signal identification, because of the characteristics of light curves and transiting exoplanet signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article makes visible the unseen and obscured cycling routes of on-demand, app-based food couriers in Edinburgh, Scotland, drawing from qualitative research (twenty-five interviews with riders), original digital data gathered through smartphone apps, and a custom-made mapping workflow developed in collaboration with student researchers and used by Deliveroo riders to track and map their delivery work. Qualitative research among riders suggests the presence of 'two Edinburghs,' or a city divided not only by its physical geography but by the navigation of risks. Riders actively discuss the strategies they use to negotiate the city and stay safe while working, and the geolocalised digital data they produce reveal the ways in which such negotiations become collective navigations throughout the city. By exploring, visualising, and mapping these navigations, this article uses unique data to illustrate how on-demand food couriers create, modify, and reproduce social space in the city. We suggest that forms of urban platform hacking, when coupled with qualitative work, constitute a powerful instrument to challenge top-down urban narratives that foreground the integrated, optimised flow of resources and labour as a hegemonic vector in the city. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present review was to describe the evolution of the damage control concept in neurotrauma, including the surgical technique and medical postoperative care, from the lessons learned from civilian and military neurosurgeons who have applied the concept regularly in practice at military hospitals and civilian institutions in areas with limited resources. The present narrative review was based on the experience of a group of neurosurgeons who participated in the development of the concept from their practice working in military theaters and low-resources settings with an important burden of blunt and penetrating cranial neurotrauma. Damage control surgery in neurotrauma has been described as a sequential therapeutic strategy that supports physiological restoration before anatomical repair in patients with critical injuries. The application of the concept has evolved since the early definitions in 1998. Current strategies have been supported by military neurosurgery experience, and the concept has been applied in civilian settings with limited resources. Damage control in neurotrauma is a therapeutic option for severe traumatic brain injury management in austere environments. To apply the concept while using an appropriate approach, lessons must be learned from experienced neurosurgeons who use this technique regularly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commercially, crab meat is obtained by hand-picking after a cooking process, followed by pasteurizing or canning. Jumbo lump is one of the pieces of meat obtained from the blue crab. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the commercial cooking process (boiling and steaming) on the mechanical and functional properties of whole jumbo lump and the gels obtained from cooked and minced jumbo lump from blue crab (Callinectes sapidus). The gels were prepared combining the washing process and microbial transglutaminase. The boiling and steaming processes showed a different effect on the textural and color properties. Whole jumbo lump pieces cooked by immersion in boiling water showed a higher hardness value as compared to steamed jumbo lump pieces, suggesting a different internal structural. The cooking processes used in this study did not modify the water holding capacity, gelling capability, or color of the minced jumbo lump. The addition of microbial transglutaminase to washed minced jumbo lump improved the hardness, cohesiveness, and chewiness of gels elaborated with boiled or steamed jumbo lump, which allowed the textural properties similar to those of the whole jumbo lump. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Set during the Chilean military dictatorship, Los archivos del cardenal ("The Cardinal's Files") is a two-season-long fictional television series that was produced by Chile's public channel TVN and broadcast in 2011 and 2014, respectively. Objectives. This article examines the impact of the series' realistic depiction of the Chilean military dictatorship on audience's historical memory and perception of the recent past. Methods. The study is based on a focus group composed of twenty-eight viewers of the television series and the analysis of participants' discourses, performed from a cognitive and psychological perspective, within the framework of perceptive memory between real history and fiction. Conclusions. Viewers had the opportunity to talk about the contents of the fictional series and to evaluate the episodes as educational material to learn about the recent history of the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of washing cycles and microbial transglutaminase on the gelation properties of crabmeat was evaluated. The blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) was cooked at 120°C for 30 min before obtaining the meat. Cooked meat was homogenized in a cutter with 0 (control) or 0.5 microbial transglutaminase (MTGase), stuffed in steel tubes and setted at 40 °C for 30 min before cooking at 90 °C for 15 min. Control samples were cooked directly at 90 °C. Changes in color, mechanical properties (puncture test) and water holding capacity (WHC) were evaluated. Adding MTGase improved the mechanical properties of crabmeat gels after one or three washing cycles in both cooking processes (setting and cooked directly). The results suggest that a single washing process produces crab meat gels with good mechanical properties while maintaining soluble proteins, responsible for the distinctive flavor of crabmeat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this work was to find out if the information about hiv/ aids published in five Mexican newspapers denoted any kind of stigmatization. The content analysis resulted in the presence of neutral vocabulary. The disease wasn't linked to the topic of death and alarmist information was not used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims, on the one hand, to determine the defining characteristics of those approaches to design that are mainly based on the use of graphic diagrams with generative capabilities. On the other hand, it also attempts to clarify the methodological aspects of the insertion of graphic diagramming techniques within the broader field of architectural design processes. Using this conceptual framework, this article also analyzes three contemporary projects in which, supported by the use of digital technologies, graphic diagramming techniques play a critical role in the definition of spatial experiences at the urban scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Este artículo persigue, por una parte, determinar las características que definen aquellos modos de proyectar apoyados en el empleo de diagramas gráficos con cualidades generativas. Por otra parte, pretende clarificar los aspectos metodológicos relacionados con la inserción de técnicas diagramáticas dentro del ámbito más amplio de los procesos del proyectar arquitectónico. Bajo este marco conceptual, el artículo analiza tres proyectos contemporáneos en los que las técnicas gráficas diagramáticas, apoyadas en el uso de las tecnologías digitales, adquieren un papel protagonista en la definición de ámbitos espaciales de escala urbana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we present a new neural network named WAvelet-Based Broad LEarning System (WABBLES). WABBLES is based on the flat structure of the broad learning system. Such structure offers an alternative to deep learning models, such as convolutional neural networks. The WABBLES network uses multiresolution analysis to look for subtle, yet important features from the input data for a better classification performance. WABBLES uses wavelets to map the input signal, to obtain more relevant features from it. This is achieved by autonomously learning and adjusting the dilation and translation parameters of a wavelet, which control its shape. In this way, the resulting mapping nodes have a better representation of the most important features for the classification problem. The construction of the model is described here, along with special considerations and algorithms involved. Finally, the proposed model is tested using a database of synthetic astronomical data and a benchmark dataset called the Breast Cancer Wisconsin Dataset (Original). The conducted experiments provide a comparison between the proposed model and several machine learning algorithms with different performance metrics applied to the context of exoplanet identification and breast cancer detection. Our results confirm that the WABBLES model obtains superior accuracy and F-score percentages than the other models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controlling polymorphism is critical in areas such as pharmaceuticals, biomineralization, and catalysis. Notably, the formation of unwanted polymorphs is a ubiquitous problem in zeolite synthesis. In this study, we propose a new platform for controlling polymorphism in organic-free Na-zeolite synthesis that enables crystal composition and properties to be tailored without sacrificing crystal phase purity. Through systematic adjustment of multiple synthesis parameters, we identified ternary (kinetic) phase diagrams at specific compositions (i.e., Si, Al, and NaOH mole fractions) using colloidal silica and sodium aluminate. Our studies identify multiple stages of zeolite phase transformations involving the framework types FAU, LTA, EMT, GIS, SOD, ANA, CAN, and JBW. We report an initial amorphous-to-crystalline transition of core-shell particles (silica core and alumina shell) to low-density framework types and their subsequent transformation to more dense structures with increasing temperature and/or time. We show that reduced water content facilitates the formation of structures such as EMT that are challenging to synthesize in organic-free media and reduces the synthesis temperature required to achieve higher-density framework types. A hypothesis is proposed for the sequence of phase transformations that is consistent with the Ostwald rule of stages, wherein metastable structures dissolve and recrystallize into more thermodynamically stable structures. The ternary diagrams developed here are a broadly applicable platform for rational design that offers an alternative to time- and cost-intensive methods of ad hoc parameter selection without a priori knowledge of crystal phase behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A flotation bank is a serial arrangement of cells. How to optimally operate a bank remains a challenge. This article reviews three reported strategies: air profiling, mass-pull (froth velocity) profiling and Peak Air Recovery (PAR) profiling. These are all ways of manipulating the recovery profile down a bank, which may be the property being exploited. Mathematical analysis has shown that a flat cell-by-cell recovery profile maximizes the separation of two floatable minerals for a given target bank recovery when the relative floatability is constant down the bank. Available bank survey data are analyzed with respect to recovery profiling. Possible variations on recovery profile to minimize entrainment are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this work is to assess a previously described slit-lamp biomicroscopy-based method (SLBM) for measuring pupil diameter and compare it to Colvard infrared pupillometry (CIP). Methods: Two examiners performed three repeated measurements with each instrument in 40 healthy eyes. We determined the agreement of SLBM and CIP, intraobserver and interobserver repeatabilities, and interobserver concordance (kappa) and SLBM ability for detecting pupil sizes over 6.0 mm. Results: The mean (±standard deviation [SD]) pupil diameter was 5.81 ± 0.70 mm with SLBM and 6.26 ± 0.68 mm with CIP ( p = 0.01) averaging both examiner's results. Mean differences between the SLBM and CIP were -0.60 mm and -0.30 mm for each examiner using the average of the three readings ( p = 0.02), and they were very similar using the first reading. Intraobserver reproducibility: the width of the 95% LoA ranged from 1.79 to 2.30 mm. The ICCs were 0.97 and 0.92 for SLBM, and 0.96 and 0.90 for CIP. Interobserver reproducibility: the width of the LoA ranged from 1.82 to 2.09 mm. Kappa statistics were 0.39 and 0.49 for the first and mean SLBM readings, respectively, and 0.45 for both the first and mean CIP readings. Sensitivity and specificity of SLBM for detection of pupils larger than 6 mm ranged from 55.56% to 73.68% and from 76.19% to 95.45%, respectively. The best trade-off between sensitivity and specificity ranged from 5.4 mm to 6.2 mm. Conclusions: Although the SLBM is quite repeatable, it underestimates mesopic pupil size and shows a too wide range of agreement with CIP. SLBM shows low sensitivity in detecting pupils larger than 6 mm, which may be misleading when planning anterior segment surgery. Previous grading-consensus training strategies may increase interrater reproducibility, and compensation for the systematic underestimation could improve accuracy of the SLBM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying individual animals is important in understanding their ecology and behaviour, as well as providing estimates of population sizes for conservation efforts. We produce identification keys from photographs of green sea turtles to identify them while foraging in Akumal Bay,Mexico. We create three keys, which (a) minimise the length of the key, (b) present the most obvious differential characteristics first, and (c) remove the strict dichotomy from key b. Keys were capable of identifying >99% of turtles in >2500 photographs during the six-month study period. The keys differed significantly in success rate for students to identify individual turtles, with key (c) being the best with >70% success and correctly being followed further than other keys before making a mistake. User-friendly keys are, therefore, a suitable method for the photographic identification of turtles and could be used for other large marine vertebrates in conservation or behavioural studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human corneal epithelial cells are needed to study corneal pathophysiology in vitro. Due to the limitations of cell lines, the use of primary cells is highly desirable, but the scarcity of human tissues, along with ethical issues, make it difficult to accomplish all required experiments. In advanced surface ablation (ASA), the central corneal epithelium is removed and discarded. We hypothesized that ASA samples could be used to perform in vitro assays. In this study, 29 samples from patients undergoing ASA were recovered in supplemented DMEM/F12 culture medium, RIPA buffer, or RLT lysis buffer. The first aim was to determine whether cells could be maintained in culture. Although with the explant technique, tissue pieces did not attach to the culture surface, after disaggregation, cells showed high viability (90.0 ± 6.0%), attached to plates, and remained viable for up to 14 days. The second aim was to elucidate if ASA samples could be used to study protein or gene expression. Cytokeratin-3, ZO-1, Ki67, and E-cadherin protein expression were confirmed by immunofluorescence. Total protein (485.8 ± 115.8 μg) was isolated from cells in RIPA buffer, and GAPDH was detected by Western blotting, indicating that samples are adequate for protein studies. RNA (9.0 ± 3.6 μg) was isolated from samples in RLT lysis buffer, and GAPDH gene expression was studied by PCR, confirming that samples were also suitable for gene expression studies. These results suggest that samples obtained from corneal surface ablation procedures may constitute a valuable source of human cells to accomplish in vitro studies. • Cells removed in corneal surface ablation surgery are useful for in vitro research. • A whole epithelial cell sheet that maintains tight junctions is obtained from ASA. • Total protein and RNA can be easily obtained from ASA surgery samples. • Human corneal epithelial cells can be maintained in culture for several days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although is a recent topic, the analysis of the success of the integrated systems implementation of the enterprise resource planning (erp) is a topic that has a lot of relevance for the information technology (it) community. However, as a result of this novelty, most of the existent investigation is limited to qualitative methodologies or descriptive studies oriented to big companies or corporations mainly. This investigation presents a model that seeks to reveal the determining factors of the success of erp implementation in a small and medium Latin American company. The validation of this empiric model allowed to verify significant relationships between training and it abilities in the company and the success of the implementation, measured by the time required for this one. It was also verified the impact of this time over the perception of the companies global satisfaction with the erp implementation. The investigation concludes with recommendations for its application and also suggests additional potential areas of investigation inspired by an amazing collateral result obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

En años recientes, el interés de los proveedores de sistemas empresariales (ERP) en el mercado de las pequeñas y medianas empresas (pymes) se ha incrementado de forma importante. La saturación y el bajo crecimiento que experimenta la venta de ERP en los mercados corporativos y de la gran empresa han hecho que los grandes proveedores de soluciones de tecnologías y sistemas de información (TI/SI) empresarial, como SAP, Oracle, Microsoft, Baan y otros, hayan vuelto su mirada para desarrollar y vender sus soluciones integrales al numeroso y heterogéneo sector de las pymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the repeatability and reproducibility of posterior corneal curvature (PCC) measurements made by combined scanning-slit/Placido-disc topography (Orbscan II) after LASIK. Design: Experimental instrument validation study. Participants: We recruited 22 consecutive postmyopic LASIK patients for the repeatability study and another 50 consecutive postmyopic LASIK patients for the reproducibility study. Methods: To analyze intrasession repeatability, 1 examiner measured 22 postmyopic LASIK eyes 10 times successively in the shortest time possible. To study intersession reproducibility, the same operator obtained measurements from another 50 eyes with stable refraction in 2 consecutive visits at the same time of the day between 6 and 9 months after myopic LASIK. We explored any association between residual stromal bed thickness and measurement variability. Main Outcome Measures: Orbscan II scanning-slit PCC data, precision, within-subject coefficient of variation (CV w ), limits of agreement (LoA), and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Results: For intrasession repeatability, precision was 0.067 mm (best-fit sphere [BFS]), 0.110 diopters (D; power within 5 mm), 0.158 D (power within 3 mm), and 0.46 (eccentricity). Repeatability was high for PCC BFS and power measurements within 3-mm and 5-mm zones (CV w ranged from 0.5%–1.2%) but poor for eccentricity data (CV w , 31.6%). Correspondingly, ICCs ranged from 0.89 to 0.98 for PCC BFS and power, and the ICC was 0.20 for PCC eccentricity values. For intersession reproducibility, on average, no difference in PCC measurements could be found, indicating that when there is variability, it is due to random factors. The width of the 95% LoA between sessions was clinically acceptable for BFS (0.25 mm) and power (0.4 D [within 5 mm] and 0.6 D [within 3 mm]). Similarly, ICCs indicated good intersession reliability for BFS and power (0.98, 0.96, and 0.85 for BFS, power within 5 mm, and power within 3 mm, respectively) but poor reliability for eccentricity (0.59). Repeatability and reproducibility were unrelated to stromal bed thickness. Conclusions: Orbscan II provides reliable post-LASIK PCC data for symmetrical parameters (BFS and power), independent of the residual stromal bed thickness, but is unreliable for measurements that are radially asymmetrical (eccentricity). Orbscan II is useful for monitoring the PCC after LASIK once the early postoperative period is over. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: To present the first reported case of cataract formation as a consequence of instillation of pilocarpine in an eye with a posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens (IOL). Design: Interventional case report. Intervention: A 46-year-old man received a hyperopic implantable collamer lens (ICL) bilaterally. Main Outcome Measures: Determination of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA); contrast sensitivity testing with and without glare; and intraocular pressure (IOP), specular endothelial cell, and slit-lamp examinations were performed serially. In addition, the distance between the ICL and crystalline lens was measured with optical coherence tomography. Results: Both eyes underwent uneventful ICL implantation for the correction of a manifest spherical equivalent of +7 diopters (D) in the right eye and +7.1 D in the left eye. The left eye was followed for 2 years without developing complications. The right eye, however, showed on the first postoperative day a fleckenlike opacification on the anterior pole of the crystalline lens after instillation on the operative day of 2% pilocarpine in an attempt to accelerate recovery from unwanted pupil dilation causing patient complaints of glare disability after surgery. Optical coherence tomography demonstrated complete contact of the ICL with the natural lens 24 hours postoperatively. Serial IOP measurements were always within the normal limits. The instillation of 1% cyclopentolate resulted in an increase in the ICL vault that measured 132 μm 24 hours later. Three days after the completion of a 3-day course of topical 1% cyclopentolate, the opacification was less dense and demarcated, and a 124-μm vault was measured. Three months postoperatively, the cataract was associated with a 3-line loss of BCVA and considerable degradation of the contrast sensitivity, especially at higher spatial frequencies and with a glare source, and corneal endothelial cell changes were within normal limits. One year after ICL implantation, the right eye had to undergo phacoemulsification and IOL implantation, which were uneventful. Conclusions: Posterior chamber flattening with resulting crystalline lens opacification can occur immediately after the instillation of pilocarpine in an eye with a hyperopic ICL. Therefore, caution should be taken with the administration of cholinergic agonists such as pilocarpine in patients with phakic IOLs, at least if they are hyperopic ICLs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: To analyze LASIK retreatment-induced changes in the posterior corneal curvature (PCC) with undersurface ablation of the flap (UAF) and in-the-bed techniques. Design: Nonrandomized, comparative, interventional study. Participants: Forty-six eyes with a residual spherical equivalent refraction between −0.37 and −2.75 diopters (D) and astigmatism between 0.0 and −1.25 D were included prospectively. In 23 eyes, the calculated postenhancement flap thickness exceeded 150 μm using micropachymetric optical coherence tomography, whereas with further ablation of the bed, the residual bed thickness (RBT) would have been <250 μm, or <55% of the pre-LASIK central pachymetry. In another 23 eyes, RBT allowed the planned ablation for a calculated post-retreatment RBT exceeding 250 μm, >55% of the pre-LASIK central pachymetry. Intervention: Eyes with insufficient RBT for further ablation underwent UAF retreatment, whereas those with adequate RBT received conventional in-the-bed LASIK retreatment. Examinations were performed before retreatment and 3 and 6 months postoperatively. No eye was lost to follow-up. Main Outcome Measures: Micropachymetry, Orbscan II scanning-slit PCC data, and visual acuity (VA). Results: The groups did not differ in age, intraocular pressure, or retreatment ablation depth, but the UAF eyes had a lower mean pre-retreatment RBT (270.7±25.4 μm) than conventional enhancement eyes (353.0±41.5 μm) (P = 0.001). Eyes undergoing UAF had no significant change in PCC, whereas eyes undergoing conventional retreatment had an increase in the posterior corneal power within the central 3-mm zone (P = 0.008) 3 months after retreatment. No significant changes occurred thereafter. The amount of change in posterior corneal power within the 3-mm central zone from before to after retreatment differed significantly between the groups (mean difference, 0.135 D; 95% confidence interval, 0.022–0.248 D; P = 0.02). No keratectasia developed clinically, and no retreated eye lost or gained ≥2 lines of best-corrected VA. Six months after retreatment, the efficacy and safety indices for the UAF procedure were 0.96 and 1.01, respectively, and 1 and 1.06 for conventional LASIK enhancement. Conclusion: Undersurface ablation of the flap retreatment appears to have less potential for changing the posterior corneal surface than conventional LASIK enhancement and can help reduce the likelihood of retreatment-induced keratectasia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

: ObjectiveTo develop a novel technique, undersurface ablation of the flap (UAF), for laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) retreatment in eyes with insufficient posterior stroma.: DesignNoncomparative, interventional case series.: ParticipantsFrom 30 eyes examined, 25 eyes with a spherical equivalent residual refraction between −0.75 and −3.25 diopters (D) and astigmatism between 0.0 and −1.5 D were prospectively included in the study. In these eyes, calculated postenhancement flap thickness was >150 μm using micropachymetric optical coherence tomography (OCT), whereas with further ablation of the bed, posterior stromal thickness would have been <250 μm. Primary LASIK procedures had been performed with the Hansatome microkeratome.: InterventionThe flap was lifted and the eye deviated downward, so that the corneal visual axis mark aligned with the laser beam. Mirror pattern ablations with an optical zone of 5 mm were performed on the flap stroma using either the Summit Apex Plus excimer laser or the Technolas Keracor 217 spot-scanning excimer laser. New axis orientation for toric ablations was calculated with the formula: β = 180° − α.: Main outcome measuresRefraction, visual acuity, OCT pachymetry, tangential videokeratography, and patient satisfaction.: ResultsThe average follow-up was 6.36 ± 2.64 months (range, 3–12 months). Mean preenhancement spherical equivalent (−2.05 ± 0.75 D) was reduced to −0.19 ± 0.38 D at the last visit (P = 0.001). Mean cylinder decreased from −0.48 ± 0.53 D before retreatment to −0.23 ± 0.28 D at the last follow-up (P = 0.003). Best-corrected visual acuity worsened by 1 line in two eyes (8%), and no eye lost 2 or more lines. Satisfactory globe stabilization and stromal smoothness during ablation were more difficult to achieve than with conventional LASIK enhancements. The average central flap thickness before UAF, 187 ± 13 μm, decreased to 164 ± 12 μm after 1 month (P = 0.001). No keratectasia developed. Finally, 92% of cases were satisfied with surgery compared with 48% before UAF retreatment (P = 0.001).: ConclusionsUAF retreatment for low residual refractive errors after LASIK in eyes with sufficient flap stroma seems to be effective and may prevent future keratectasia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

There is a clear need for novel antiviral concepts to control SARS-CoV-2 infection. Based on the promising anti-coronavirus activity observed for a class of 1,4,4-trisubstituted piperidines, we here conducted a detailed analysis of the structure–activity relationship of these structurally unique inhibitors. Despite the presence of five points of diversity, the synthesis of an extensive series of analogues was readily achieved by Ugi four-component reaction from commercially available reagents. After evaluating 63 analogues against human coronavirus 229E, four of the best molecules were selected and shown to have micromolar activity against SARS-CoV-2. Since the action point was situated post virus entry and lying at the stage of viral polyprotein processing and the start of RNA synthesis, enzymatic assays were performed with CoV proteins involved in these processes. While no inhibition was observed for SARS-CoV-2 nsp12-nsp7-nsp8 polymerase, nsp14 N7-methyltransferase and nsp16/nsp10 2'-O-methyltransferase, nor the nsp3 papain-like protease, the compounds clearly inhibited the nsp5 main protease (Mpro). Although the inhibitory activity was quite modest, the plausibility of binding to the catalytic site of Mpro was established by in silico studies. Therefore, the 1,4,4-trisubstituted piperidines appear to represent a novel class of non-covalent CoV Mpro inhibitors that warrants further optimization and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this article is to determine whether there are differences in the coping strategies of parents of children with disabilities (autism spectrum disorder or other disabilities) and children without disabilities, in reference to the most stressful situation they have experienced with their child in the last year. Method: To conduct the study, a purposive sample selection based on case‐control characteristics was carried out, in which a total sample of 170 participants was recruited. Participants were assigned, according to their characteristics, to the group of parents of children without disabilities, with ASD or with other disabilities. An ad hoc sociodemographic questionnaire and the Coping Responses Inventory for adults were administered. Results: The results obtained indicate that there are differences in the use of coping strategies between parents of children without disabilities and with disabilities but not between the two disability groups. Parents of children with disabilities have significantly higher scores on the four subscales defined as avoidance strategies, and on one subscale identified as an approach strategy. Conclusions: Parents of children with disabilities use avoidance strategies, to a greater extent, during the most stressful situations they have experienced in the last year with their child. In addition, they tend to use avoidance strategies regardless of the type of disability their child has. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes a method to predict water recovery rate into and through the foam in a bubble column operating under different gas rates, froth depths, and frother types and concentrations. Three frothers were considered: Metil Isobutil Carbinol (MIBC), a proprietary blend of alcohols, aldehydes, and esters commercialized under the name PINNACLE® 9891, and a PGE-based Dow Froth 1012 (DF1012). The water rate entering into the froth (foam) layer from the bubbly (collection) zone was estimated as the water rate overflowing the column when operating at a thin stable foam layer, i.e., 0.5 cm. It was observed that the rate at which water entered into the froth phase could be modelled as a unique linear function of the gas holdup below the froth, regardless of the frother chemistry. This is a fundamental result not previously found in the literature that also facilitates the calculation of the froth zone water recovery for deeper froths. The water recovery in the froth was found to be an inverse logarithmic function of the average liquid residence time in the froth. Although the same trend was observed for the three frothers tested, they did not converge into a single function, which suggests that frother chemistry plays a role in determining froth structure and then needs to be incorporated when modeling water transport in the froth. Finally, the water overflow rate calculated as the product of the water rate into the froth and froth water recovery predicted the actual measured values fairly well. The water transport model here proposed provides a simple representation of the interactions between collection and froth zone and its relation to easily measure operating variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A flap tear occurred during laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) retreatment using a flap-lifting technique in 1 eye of 2 patients 4 to 5 months after the primary procedure. In the first case, the tear occurred in a decentered, standard thickness flap (168 μm) in a location close to the corneal limbus and limbal vessels. In the second case, the tear occurred in a well-centered thin flap (116 μm) that involved a peripheral corneal pannus. The false track was identified early, and central extension of the tear was averted. After the flap was successfully dissected, retreatment was performed without further complications. This report suggests that flaps with margins near the limbus or a corneal pannus may be prone to an earlier and stronger healing process at the edge that may lead to a flap tear during LASIK retreatment. This may be of increasing importance because of the trend toward larger flap diameters. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This report illustrates a retrospective case review in which extensive corneal epithelial ulceration occurred concomitantly with an internal hordeolum in the inferior forniceal conjunctiva 24 hours after an uneventful laser in situ keratomileusis. The internal hordeolum and epithelial defect were successfully managed using a bandage soft contact lens, a course of topical dexamethasone and tobramycin, and generous lubrication. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Introduction: Characterizing lens thickness (LT) in patients with cataracts is important for better understanding the lens aging process and for designing new intraocular lens power formulas. This study aimed to analyze the influence of common senile cataract formation on the LT, anterior (ACS) and posterior (PCS) cortex space, and nuclear thickness (NT), controlling for sex, age, and axial length. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed. A consecutive sample of 603 volunteers (403 women, 200 men) aged 59.1 ± 18.8 years was recruited. The standardized Lens Opacification Classification System (LOCS)-III was used to classify eyes (randomly selected) into cataractous and non-cataractous groups. Also, they were classified according to the cataract location (presence or absence of cortical, nuclear, or posterior subcapsular cataract). Optical biometry was performed to measure LT, ACS, NT, and PCS. Propensity score was used to match participants one-to-one for sex, age, and axial length. Groups were compared using the Student's t test or Yuen's test. Results: The four classifications divided unmatched eyes into: 361 cataractous lenses and 242 non-cataractous, 226 cortical and 377 non-cortical cataractous, 313 nuclear and 290 non-nuclear cataractous and 242 subcapsular and 361 non-subcapsular cataractous. Before matching, cataractous eyes showed significantly higher LT (4.52 ± 0.39 vs. 3.94 ± 0.46 mm, p < 0.001), ACS (0.75 ± 0.20 vs. 0.58 ± 0.23 mm, p < 0.001), NT (3.34 ± 0.23 vs. 3.18 ± 0.25 mm, p < 0.001) and PCS (0.42 ± 0.19 vs. 0.37 ± 0.19 mm, p = 0.003). Matched lens, cortical, nuclear, and subcapsular cataract samples comprised 146, 258, 182, and 226 eyes, respectively. After matching, no significant differences were observed in LT (4.34 ± 0.37 vs. 4.33 ± 0.36 mm, p = 0.94), ACS (0.72 ± 0.20 vs. 0.76 ± 0.19 mm, p = 0.08), NT (3.31 ± 0.22 vs. 3.30 ± 0.23 mm, p = 0.24) and PCS (0.42 ± 0.19 vs. 0.43 ± 0.16 mm, p = 0.79). Conclusions: The presence of senile cortical, nuclear, and posterior subcapsular cataract have no effect on LT, ACS, NT, and PCS. Confounding factors should be controlled for when measuring LT and its main components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the relationship between anterior chamber depth (ACD) and lens thickness (LT), as well as its three main components (anterior and posterior cortex and nucleus thickness), in cataractous and non-cataractous eyes, depending on the axial length (AxL). Methods: Anterior and posterior cortex and nucleus thickness of the crystalline lens, ACD, and AxL were measured using optical low-coherence reflectometry in cataractous and non-cataractous eyes. They were also classified into hyperopia, emmetropia, myopia, and high myopia, depending on AxL; thus, eight subgroups were created. A minimum sample size of 44 eyes (of 44 patients) for each group was recruited. Linear models were fitted for the whole sample and each AxL subgroup to assess if there were differences in the relationships between the crystalline lens variables and ACD, including age as a covariate. Results: Three hundred seventy cataract patients (237 females, 133 males) and 250 non-cataract controls (180 females, 70 males), aged 70.5 ± 9.4 and 41.9 ± 15.5 years, respectively, were recruited. The mean AxL, ACD, and LT for the cataractous and non-cataractous eyes were 23.90 ± 2.05, 24.11 ± 2.11, 2.64 ± 0.45, and 2.91 ± 0.49, 4.51 ± 0.38, 3.93 ± 0.44 mm, respectively. The inverse relationship of LT, anterior and posterior cortex, and nucleus thickness with ACD was not significantly (p ≥ 0.26) different between cataractous and non-cataractous eyes. Further subclassification of the sample depending on AxL showed that the inverse relationship between the posterior cortex and ACD was no longer significant (p > 0.05) for any non-cataractous AxL group. LT, anterior and posterior cortex, and nucleus thickness was not significantly (p ≥ 0.43) different between cataractous and non-cataractous eyes for the whole sample, and all AxL groups after adjusting for age. Conclusions: The presence of cataracts does not modify the inverse relationship of the LT, anterior and posterior cortex, and nucleus with ACD. And this relationship does not seem to depend importantly on AxL. Besides, the possible differences in LT, anterior and posterior cortex, and nucleus between cataractous and non-cataractous eyes may not be caused by lens opacification, but possibly by the progressive lens growth due to aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the extent of his work, the figure of Gutiérrez Soto is very hard to classify in the architectural context of his time. Most of his contemporaries agreed in pointing out his enormous work capacity and his excellent drawing skills. However, the diverse character of his work and his strong and uncertain personality have sometimes contributed to obscuring his figure, given the impossibility of associating it with a specific movement. His graphic legacy brings a broad narrative discourse to his built work, while sharing a pragmatic vision of architectural design. Architectural and graphic production are combined in a single language. The graphic legacy of Gutiérrez Soto runs in parallel with his life stages, reflecting an era marked by extreme circumstances. Despite this, nothing in his work seems to deviate from the norm, constituting an extraordinary legacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the intrasession and intersession precision of higher-order aberrations (HOAs) measured using a commercial Hartmann-Shack wavefront sensor (Zywave; Bausch & Lomb) in refractive surgery candidates. Design: Prospective, experimental study of a device. Methods: To analyze intrasession repeatability, 1 experienced examiner measured 30 healthy eyes 5 times successively. To study intersession reproducibility, the same clinician obtained measurements from another 30 eyes in 2 consecutive sessions at the same time of day 1 week apart. Results: For intrasession repeatability, excellent intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were obtained for total ocular aberrations, total HOAs, and second-order terms (ICC, > 0.94). The ICCs for third-order terms also were high (ICCs, > 0.87); however, fourth-order ICCs varied from 0.71 to 0.90 (Z4 0 = 0.90); and fifth-order ICCs were less than 0.85. For intersession reproducibility, only total ocular aberrations, total ocular HOAs, second-order terms, Z4 0, Z3 1, and Z3− 3 had ICCs of 0.90 or more. Bland-Altman analysis showed that the limits of agreement (were clinically too wide for most higher-order Zernike terms, especially for the third-order terms (> 0.21 μm). Conclusions: Total ocular aberrations, total HOAs, and second-order terms can be measured reliably by Zywave aberrometry without anatomic recognition. Third-order terms and Z4 0 are repeatable, but not as reproducible between visits. Fourth-order terms, except for Z4 0, and fifth-order terms are not sufficiently reliable for clinical decision making or treatment. Because the variability of Zywave can be a major limitation of a truly successful wavefront-guided excimer laser procedure, surgeons should consider treating HOA magnitudes that are more than the intrasession repeatability values (2.77 × Sw) as those presented in this study. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Galilei G4 and Topolyzer Vario provide repeatable measurements of apparent chord mu length and Cartesian coordinates; however, measurements are not interchangeable except for Y-coordinate values under photopic conditions. Purpose: To assess the repeatability and agreement of Cartesian coordinates and the length of apparent chord mu and pupil diameter measurements during static (Galilei G4) and dynamic (Topolyzer Vario) evaluations. Setting: IOBA-Eye Institute, Valladolid, Spain. Design: Case series. Methods: 3 consecutive measurements per scenario (Galilei G4 and Topolyzer Vario under low mesopic and photopic conditions) were performed by the same clinician. The intrasession repeatability was assessed using the within-subject SD (Sw), the precision, the coefficient of variation, and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The agreement was analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance and the Bland-Altman method. Results: Thirty-seven healthy participants were recruited. The Sw values for chord mu parameters and pupil diameter ranged from 0.01 to 0.03 and 0.08 to 0.21, respectively. The ICC was ≥0.89 for all parameters. Galilei G4 and Topolyzer Vario under low mesopic and photopic conditions provided significantly different measures of apparent chord mu length (0.23 ± 0.11 mm, 0.30 ± 0.10 mm, and 0.25 ± 0.11 mm, respectively, P ≤.02), X-coordinate (−0.18 ± 0.12 mm, −0.27 ± 0.11 mm, and −0.21 ± 0.12 mm, respectively, P <.001), and pupil diameter (3.38 ± 0.50 mm, 6.29 ± 0.60 mm, and 3.04 ± 0.41 mm, respectively, P <.001). Y-coordinate values obtained by Galilei G4 and Topolyzer Vario under low mesopic conditions were significantly different (0.06 ± 0.13 mm vs 0.03 ± 0.11 mm, respectively, P =.02), in contrast to Galilei G4 and Topolyzer Vario under photopic conditions (0.05 ± 0.13 mm, P =.82) and both illumination conditions of Topolyzer Vario (P ≥.23). Conclusions: Galilei G4 and Topolyzer Vario provide consistent measurements of apparent chord mu Cartesian coordinates and length, as well as pupil diameter; however, the measurements are not interchangeable. Ophthalmic surgeons should consider these findings when planning customized intraocular lens implantation and refractive surgery procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an increasing interest in the development of meat processed products enriched with antioxidant dietary fiber to augment the consumption of these health beneficial compounds. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional, nutraceutical, and antioxidant potential, as well as the physicochemical properties of minced tilapia fillets (meat) gels with added amaranth seed or sprout flours (0%, 2%, 4%, 8%, and 10% w/w). Dietary fiber content was significantly increased with the addition of amaranth seed (1.25–1.75-fold) and sprout flours (1.99–3.21-fold). Tilapia gels with added 10% amaranth seed flour showed a high content of extractable dihydroxybenzoic acid and cinnamic acid, whereas the addition of 10% amaranth sprout flour provided a high and wide variety of bioactive compounds, mainly amaranthine and bound ferulic acid. The addition of amaranth seed and sprout flours increased hardness (1.01–1.73-fold) without affecting springiness, decreased luminosity (1.05–1.15-fold), and increased redness and yellowness. Therefore, amaranth seed and sprout flours could be used as functional ingredients for the development of fish products rich in bioactive compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Laser vision correction is one of the most commonly performed elective surgical procedures in ophthalmology. Generally, discomfort besides pain (photophobia, burning sensation, tearing, and foreign body sensation) after these procedures is not taken into consideration in the clinical practice. The objective is to provide data on these symptoms and their relevance after advanced surface ablation (ASA). Methods: Single-center survey study based on a structured questionnaire relative to the patients' perceived symptoms after ASA. Inclusion criteria were: ≥18 years old, no ocular disease, with myopia (0.75 to 9 D) or hyperopia (0.25 to 5 D) with or without astigmatism, receiving ASA on at least one eye. All procedures were performed by the same surgeon. A descriptive analysis was performed. Results: Seventy-three consecutive patients (34 men and 39 women) were included in the study. The median (range) of age was 33 (19-64) years. Sixty-nine patients had surgery done on both eyes. Postoperative pain was the most frequent comorbidity (97% [95% confidence interval {CI}: 90-100]) with a median (range) of intensity (verbal numerical rating scale) score of 7 (2-10). Photophobia: 85% (95% CI: 75-92); burning sensation: 62% (95% CI: 50-73); tearing: 59% (95% CI: 47-70); and foreign body sensation: 48% (95% CI: 36-60) were also prevalent postoperative symptoms. Pain during ASA was reported for 44% (95% CI: 32-56) of patients. Conclusion: Comorbidities such as pain, photophobia, burning sensation, tearing, and foreign body sensation are prevalent after ASA procedure. Postoperative pain should be taken into consideration due to its prevalence and intensity. A new and more efficient postoperative analgesic protocol should be established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There is a lack of evidence about the exact deterioration of visual function associated with the age-related natural changes in the lens, particularly in intermediate (stage-2) dysfunctional lens syndrome (DLS). Standard photopic visual acuity and contrast sensitivity tests may not show the visual worsening in daily life activities, such as oncoming vehicle headlights at night. The purpose of this study was to analyze visual function under different conditions and glare sources in stage-2 DLS. Methods: Forty patients over 49 years of age with initial bilateral lens opacification (Lens Opacities Classification System III [LOCS-III] scores up to 3), best-corrected visual acuity of 20/25 or better, and no ocular disease were evaluated. Binocular photopic and mesopic contrast sensitivity (CS) with/without halogen and xenon increasing glare sources were analyzed. Mesopic disability glare (MDG) was calculated as the difference between mesopic CS with/without the glare source. Results: The median logarithmic CS (logCS) values were lower under mesopic conditions (1.05) than under photopic illumination (1.65; P < 0.001). Halogen and xenon glare further decreased mesopic CS (both, median logCS 0.75, P < 0.001). The mean MDG was 0.31 ± 0.10 log units for halogen glare and 0.33 ± 0.09 log units for xenon glare. The mesopic CS and MDG were not associated with any photopic test. The mesopic CS with glare but not photopic CS or mesopic CS was correlated with the LOCS-III scores. The best association was provided by MDG, which showed a pooled correlation with LOCS-III nuclear opalescence (r = 0.411, P < 0.001) and cortical scores (r = 0.226, P = 0.04). Conclusion: The mesopic CS under a glare source is an independent early indicator of visual impairment in stage-2 DLS patients, and appears to be substantial. Furthermore, the MDG is more sensitive than photopic and mesopic CS for evaluating patients with initial phacosclerosis. Surgeons should consider this in the decision-making process of the correct timing for lens surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile approach for enabling orinhibiting the adsorption of protein and adhesion of bacterial cells on a potential-induced reversibly wettable polythiophene film is described. The superhydrophobic polymeric surface was first prepared by a two-step process that combines the layering of polystyrene (PS) latex particles via a Langmuir–Blodgett (LB)-liketechnique followed by cyclic voltammetric (CV)–electrodeposition of polythiophene from a terthiophene ester monomer. The polythiophene conducting polymer coating enabled control of the wettability of the surface by simply changing its redox property via potential switching. The influence of morphology on this switching behavior is also described. The wettability in return controls the adsorption of protein and adhesion of bacterial cells. For instance, the undoped polythiophene film, which is superhydrophobic, inhibits the adhesion of fibrinogen proteins and Escherichia coli(E. coli) cells. On the other hand, the doped film, which is hydrophilic, leads to increased attachment of both protein and bacteria. Unlike most synthetic antiwetting surfaces, the as-prepared superhydrophobic coating is nonfluorinated. It maintains its superhydrophobic property at a wide range of pH (pH 1–13) and temperature (below −10 °C and between 4 and 80 °C). Moreover, the surface demonstrated self-cleaning properties at a sliding angle as low as 3° ± 1. The proposed methodology and material should find application in the preparation of smart or tunable biomaterial surfaces that can be either resistant or susceptible to proteins and bacterial cell adhesion by a simple potential switching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coral-grounds are reef communities that colonize rocky substratum but do not form framework or three-dimensional reef structures. To investigate why, we used video transects and underwater photography to determine the composition, structure and status of a coral-ground community located on the edge of a rocky terrace in front of a tourist park, Xcaret, in the northern Mesoamerican Reef tract, Mexico. The community has a relatively low coral, gorgonian and sponge cover (<10%) and high algal cover (>40%). We recorded 23 species of Scleractinia, 14 species of Gorgonacea and 30 species of Porifera. The coral community is diverse but lacks large coral colonies, being dominated instead by small, sediment-tolerant, and brooding species. In these small colonies, the abundance of potentially lethal interactions and partial mortality is high but decreases when colonies are larger than 40 cm. Such characteristics are consistent with an environment control whereby storm waves periodically remove larger colonies and elevate sediment flux. The community only survives these storm conditions due to its slope-break location, which ensures lack of burial and continued local recruitment. A comparison with similar coral-ground communities in adjacent areas suggests that the narrow width of the rock terrace hinders sediment stabilization, thereby ensuring that communities cannot escape bottom effects and develop into three-dimensional reef structures on geological time scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The giant kelp Macrocystis pyrifera (L.) C. Agardh is widely distributed in the Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere, yet it exhibits distinct population dynamics at local to regional spatial scales. Giant kelp populations are typically perennial with the potential for year-round reproduction and recruitment. In southern Chile, however, annual giant kelp populations exist and often persist entirely on secondary substrata (e.g., shells of the slipper limpet Crepipatella fecunda [Gastropoda, Calyptraeidae]) that can cover up to 90% of the rocky bottom. In these populations, the macroscopic sporophyte phase disappears annually during winter and early spring, leaving a 3-4 month period in which a persistent microscopic phase remains to support the subsequent year's recruitment. We tested the effects of a suite of grazers on the recruitment success of this critical microscopic phase at two sites in southern Chile. Field experiments indicated that the snail Tegula atra negatively impacted M. pyrifera sporophyte recruitment, but that recruitment was highest in the presence of sessile female limpets, C. fecunda. Conversely, small male C. fecunda (biofilm grazers) did not regulate kelp recruitment. Laboratory observations showed that C. fecunda males only grazed on microscopic kelp gametophytes and small (<250 μm) sporophytes, rejecting larger sporophytes, whereas T. atra grazed on all the kelp stages. Recruitment to the C. fecunda treatments far exceeded that to bare rock in the absence of grazers but was not due to the physical presence of C. fecunda shells. We concluded that the key to M. pyrifera recruitment success in southern Chile is its capacity to colonize secondary substrates provided by the slipper limpet C. fecunda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the role of optical coherence tomography (OCT) in determining choroidal neovascularization (CNV) activity before and after photodynamic therapy (PDT) in patients with age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). Design: Prospective observational case series. Methods: setting: Institutional study. patient population: Fifty-three patients (62 eyes) with ARMD. observation procedure: Prospective observational case study. main outcome measures: Presence or absence of leakage on fluorescein angiography, presence of intraretinal or sub-retinal fluid on OCT, and macular and choroidal neovascular complex thickness on OCT. Results: The macular thickness decreased significantly after PDT (P = .001). However, no significant changes in CNV thickness were measured after PDT (P = .567). Once the diagnosis of ARMD was established before treatment, OCT had a sensitivity of 96.77% for detecting CNV activity. After treatment, OCT had a good sensitivity (95.65%) and a moderate specificity (59.01%) in determining CNV activity, which resulted in a diagnostic efficiency (proportion of correct results) of 82.95%. Conclusions: OCT appears to be useful for indicating CNV activity. Therefore, it may serve as a complementary technique for deciding the need for PDT and re-treatment in patients with ARMD. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]