Search

Malignant cancer angiogenesis has historically attracted enormous scientific attention. Although angiogenesis is requisite for a child's development and conducive to tissue homeostasis, it is deleterious when cancer lurks. Today, anti-angiogenic biomolecular receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (RTKIs) to target angiogenesis have been prolific in treating various carcinomas. Angiogenesis is a pivotal component in malignant transformation, oncogenesis, and metastasis that can be activated by a multiplicity of factors (e.g., VEGF (Vascular endothelial growth factor), (FGF) Fibroblast growth factor, (PDGF) Platelet-derived growth factor and others). The advent of RTKIs, which primarily target members of the VEGFR (VEGF Receptor) family of angiogenic receptors has greatly ameliorated the outlook for some cancer forms, including hepatocellular carcinoma, malignant tumors, and gastrointestinal carcinoma. Cancer therapeutics have evolved steadily with active metabolites and strong multi-targeted RTK inhibitors such as E7080, CHIR-258, SU 5402, etc. This research intends to determine the efficacious anti-angiogenesis inhibitors and rank them by using the Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluation (PROMETHEE- II) decision-making algorithm. The PROMETHEE-II approach assesses the influence of growth factors (GFs) in relation to the anti-angiogenesis inhibitors. Due to their capacity to cope with the frequently present vagueness while ranking alternatives, fuzzy models constitute the most suitable tools for producing results for analyzing qualitative information. This research's quantitative methodology focuses on ranking the inhibitors according to their significance concerning criteria. The evaluation findings indicate the most efficacious and idle alternative for inhibiting angiogenesis in cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Audio processing has become an inseparable part of modern applications in domains ranging from health care to speech-controlled devices. In automated audio segmentation, deep learning plays a vital role. In this article, we are discussing audio segmentation based on deep learning. Audio segmentation divides the digital audio signal into a sequence of segments or frames and then classifies these into various classes such as speech recognition, music, or noise. Segmentation plays an important role in audio signal processing. The most important aspect is to secure a large amount of high-quality data when training a deep learning network. In this study, various application areas, citation records, documents published year-wise, and source-wise analysis are computed using Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases. The analysis presented in this paper supports and establishes the significance of the deep learning techniques in audio segmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agro-business is highly dependent on rice quality and its protection from diseases. There are several prerequisites for the procedures and the strategies that are productive and efficient for expanding the harvest yield. The advancement in computer science has supported various domains; agricultural innovation is one of them. The apparatuses which utilize the strategies of advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning have been featured in this paper. These techniques attain abnormally productive outcomes for the recognition of infections engrossing the images of leaves, fields of harvest, or seeds. In this context, this work presents a survey that focuses on accuracy agribusiness for expanding the conception of rice, which is one of the main harvests on the planet. In this paper, the overview and examination of various papers distributed in the most recent eight years with various methodologies identified with crop diseases identification, the health of seedlings, and quality of grain have been introduced. Experiments are performed for knowledge extraction using Web of Science and Scopus databases to analyze research trends in the domain of rice disease identification using artificial intelligence using global analysis, year-wise and country-wise citations, and so on to support various researchers working in this domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a thermodynamic model for concentrated semi-transparent-photovoltaic thermoelectric generator (CSPV-TEG) hybrid power generation system has been developed. Using the model, solar cell temperature, exergy and electrical efficiency of the hybrid system, temperature difference across TEG, power output and photovoltaic conversion efficiency of the PV module and the electrical efficiency of the TEG module have been calculated. The simulation of the system, using MATLAB, was conducted for clear day in May for New Delhi by varying the concentration ratio (C) and the number of p-n thermocouples (N). The results illustrate that for the hybrid system, maximum power output of 219.75 W was obtained for C = 2 N = 200 case and peak electrical efficiency of 10.44% was obtained for C = 1 N = 200 case. The peak value of the exergy efficiency of the hybrid system exceeded the peak value of electrical efficiency of the hybrid system by 1.33%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial agents are essential drugs for the health of humans and animals as they cure infectious diseases produced by several contagious strains (bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses). Antibiotics efficacy is restricted by an increased number of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Computational chemistry is crucial in the development of novel potential therapeutics. In this study, the objective was to integrate the two separately bioactive molecules, i.e., thiazoles and pyrimidines into one molecule to produce compounds with better pharmacological activity. Various thiazolo-pyrimidine derivatives were planned through a suitable synthetic scheme and were docked on DNA gyrase subunit B and dihydrofolate reductase, which are established targets for microbial infection. The results were studied and the findings were compared to two known medications as well as potential inhibitors. The result recognizes few thiazolo-pyrimidine derivatives with increased binding efficiency leading to enhanced potency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is known that the witness operator is useful in the detection and quantification of entangled states. This motivated us for the construction of the family of witness operators that can detect many mixed entangled states. This family of witness operators is then used to estimate the lower bound of concurrence of the detected mixed entangled states. Our method of construction of witness operator is important in the sense that it will estimate a better lower bound of concurrence of the entangled states in arbitrary d 1 ⊗ d 2 (d 1 ≤ d 2) -dimensional system compared to the lower bound of the concurrence given in Chen et al. (Phys Rev Lett 95:040504, 2005). We have shown the significance of our constructed witness operator by detecting many bound entangled states that are not detected by the earlier methods, and then, we use the expectation value of the witness operator to estimate the lower bound of the concurrence of those bound entangled states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To forecast the volume of cataract surgery in Medicare beneficiaries in the United States in 2020 and to estimate the surgical backlog that may be created due to COVID-19. Setting: Medicare Beneficiaries, United States. Design: Epidemiologic modeling. Methods: Baseline trends in cataract surgery among Medicare beneficiaries were assessed by querying the Medicare Part B Provider Utilization National Summary data. It was assumed that once the surgical deferment is over, there will be a ramp-up period; this was modeled using a stochastic Monte Carlo simulation. Total surgical backlog 2 years postsuspension was estimated. Sensitivity analyses were used to test model assumptions. Results: Assuming cataract surgeries were to resume in May 2020, it would take 4 months under an optimistic scenario to revert to 90% of the expected pre-COVID forecasted volume. At 2-year postsuspension, the resulting backlog would be between 1.1 and 1.6 million cases. Sensitivity analyses revealed that a substantial surgical backlog would remain despite potentially lower surgical demand in the future. Conclusions: Suspension of elective cataract surgical care during the COVID-19 surge might have a lasting impact on ophthalmology and will likely result in a cataract surgical patient backlog. These data may aid physicians, payers, and policymakers in planning for postpandemic recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To analyze the impact of the pandemic on trends in cataract surgical volume in 2020 in a high-volume tertiary care academic center in North India. Methods: The monthly cataract surgical volume for a large, high-volume, tertiary care academic center in North India was obtained from January 2018 through December 2020. Based on historical trends, we used time-series forecasting, probability sensitivity analysis, and linear regression models to estimate what the expected monthly cataract volume should have been from March 2020 onward. Results: In 2020, we expected to perform 7500 cases (assuming historical trends) but performed only 2500 cases (33% of the expected volume). The remaining 5000 cases (67% cases) constituted the "fixed" backlog. Assuming the ramp-up in cataract surgical volume starts in January 2021, results of the Monte Carlo simulation revealed that for our system, it would take on average 5 months (May 2021) under the optimistic scenario and 10 months (October 2021) under the ambivalent scenario to reach pre-pandemic expected surgical volume. There would be a collective backlog of 5500 cases under the optimistic scenario (8.8 months' worth of cases) and a collective backlog of 6900 cases under the ambivalent scenario (11 months' worth of cases). Conclusion: An intuitive approach and out-of-the-box solutions are required by the government and private institutes' collaborative efforts to help mitigate the disruptions caused by the pandemic and lessen the backlog without causing provider burnout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional k-means clustering algorithm is sensitive to the choice of initial cluster centers and leads to local optimal results. k-means++ is a hybrid k-means clustering algorithm which specifies the procedure to initialize the cluster centers before proceeding with the standard k-means algorithm. Inspired by nature, some contemporary optimization techniques such as Cuckoo, Bat and Krill Herd algorithms etc., are used for optimization as they mimic the swarming behaviour and allows to cooperatively move towards an optimal objective within a reasonable time. In this paper, these nature-inspired techniques are used for optimizing k-means++ clustering algorithm to enhance clustering quality and generate new hybrids of unprecedented performance. The results of the evaluation experiments on the integration of nature-inspired optimization methods with k-means++ algorithm are reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To describe a novel technique utilizing an amniotic membrane graft (AMT) to create the mucocutaneous portion of the lower eyelid margin in a modified Hughes eyelid reconstruction for secondary revision or prevention of a hyperemic, hypertrophic conjunctival margin with excessive discharge. This was a retrospective, non-comparative interventional study. Thirty consecutive patients who underwent a modified Hughes reconstruction were included. The first step of the reconstruction was performed in a standard fashion using a tarsoconjunctival flap from the ipsilateral upper eyelid. The second stage was accomplished by the division of the tarsoconjunctival flap. The modification of the procedure included the addition of AMT (Ambio 5®, IOP Ophthalmics, CA) to the new mucocutaneous junction. Main outcome measures included the post Mohs surgery defect size, post-reconstruction complications. One patient received AMT for a revision of a hyperemic lid margin following reconstruction, while 29 subsequent patients received AMT as a primary procedure. The mean size of the post-Mohs defect was 23.75 ± 6.6 mm2 horizontally and 9.1 ± 5.4 mm2 vertically, involving 79.53 ± 16.8% of the lower eyelid. There was no evidence of hyperemic or hypertrophic margin at a mean follow-up of 4.41 ± 2.91 months. The addition of an AMT for the revision, or as a primary procedure for prevention of a hyperemic, hypertrophic eyelid margin with excess mucus production in the post-Hughes lower eyelid reconstruction has favorable outcomes in this preliminary study, however warrants further investigation with larger number of patients and longer follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macular corneal dystrophy is a corneal stromal dystrophy which leads to progressive vision loss. Macular corneal dystrophy is an autosomal recessive condition in which there is abnormality of proteoglycan synthesis. Mutations in the carbohydrate sulfotransferase gene prevent normal sulfation of corneal keratan. Different immunophenotypes have been described depending on the presence of keratan sulfate in cornea and/or serum. The deposition of abnormal proteoglycans leads to loss of corneal transparency and decreased vision. Imaging techniques such as in vivo confocal microscopy and anterior segment ocular coherence tomography have helped enhance our understanding of the corneal ultrastructural changes in this condition. These imaging modalities provide additional information without the need for a tissue biopsy or excision. Traditionally, full-thickness penetrating keratoplasty to replace the opacified cornea has remained the standard of treatment to improve vision. However, newer surgical interventions such as deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty and phototherapeutic keratectomy have also been shown to play a role in the treatment. Disease recurrence remains a challenge and the reason for poor visual prognosis. Newer techniques such as gene-targeting therapies and enzyme replacement therapies are being studied for a potential permanent solution in macular corneal dystrophy. Recent research is directed toward development of genetically modified products to integrate into host corneal DNA and block the mutant genes and hence overcome the underlying pathophysiology. Enzyme replacement therapy is another intervention with potential to treat macular corneal dystrophy. Animal studies show clearance of accumulated keratan sulfate from the body tissues in the treatment of systemic mucopolysaccharidosis by long-term enzyme replacement therapy. Future research should be directed toward elucidation of the relationship between the mutated carbohydrate sulfotransferase gene, the mechanism of deposit formation, and the development of pharmaceutical agents based on gene therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entanglement detection problem is one of the important problem in quantum information theory. Gurvit (2014) showed that this problem is NP complete and thus this may be the possible reason that only one criterion is not sufficient to detect all entangled states. There are some powerful entanglement detection criterion such as partial transposition criterion, realignment criterion but it may not be possible to implement them successfully in the experiment. This situation can be avoided if the entanglement is detected through the construction of witness operator method. In this work, we take an analytical approach to construct a witness operator. To achieve this task, we first construct a linear map using partial transposition and realignment operation. Then we find some conditions on the parameters of the map for which the map represent a positive map. Further, we have constructed a Choi matrix corresponding to the map and have shown that it is not completely positive. We then construct an entanglement witness operator, which is based on the linear combination of the function of Choi matrix and the identity matrix and it can detect both NPTES and PPTES. Finally, we prove its efficiency by detecting several bipartite bound entangled states which were previously undetected by some well-known separability criteria. We also compared the detection power of our witness operator with three well-known powerful entanglement detection criteria, namely, dV criterion, CCNR criterion and the separability criteria based on correlation tensor (CT) proposed by Sarbicki et. al. and find that our witness operator detects more entangled states than these criterion. • We have constructed a 2-parameter family of positive but not completely positive maps and then constructed a family of witness operators using the corresponding choi matrix of the map. • Our witness operator is efficient in detecting several bipartite bound entangled states which were previously undetected by some well-known separability criteria in literature. • We compared the detection power of our witness operator with three well-known separability criteria, namely, dV criterion, CCNR criterion and the separability criteria based on correlation tensor (CT). • We also constructed a one parameter family of 2-ququart PPT states and discovered a significant improvement in the detection range when it is detected by our criteria. • The efficiency of our witness operator has also been demonstrated using a one parameter family of 4 ⊗ 4 PPT entangled edge states which remains undetected by all three separability criteria mentioned above whereas our witness detects it in the whole range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. We present a case of a patient with Soemmering ring after cataract surgery and a potential complication that can arise as a result of its presence. Observations. A patient with history of ruptured globe status after repair and lensectomy, complicated by aphakic secondary open angle glaucoma, was referred for management of second injury to the same eye. This injury resulted in Soemmering ring dislocation into the anterior chamber. The cortical material caused a significant increase in intraocular pressure and corneal decompensation. Surgical removal of the Soemmering ring and Ahmed glaucoma tube implant was performed with control of intraocular pressures; however corneal edema could not be reversed. Conclusions and Importance. This case report illustrates the serious consequences that can be caused by Soemmering rings without early surgical intervention. Care must be taken to completely remove cortical material during cataract surgery to prevent their formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium fluoride (LiF) is one of the best tissue equivalent materials exhibiting good thermoluminescence (TL) properties, however it shows weak optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) response with blue light (470 nm) stimulation. Several research groups are working on improving the OSL properties of LiF phosphor. In an attempt, a thorough investigation on tissue equivalent LiF: Mg,Cu,Na,Si (MCNS) as a possible OSL material has been done in the current work. As the preparation route and particle size can modify the energy levels and optical transitions, the striking improvement is expected by preparing it in nanocrystalline form. The structural and morphological characterization has been done using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The OSL emission is observed in continuous wave mode under blue (460 nm) light stimulation. The OSL decay curve exhibits a significant increase in intensity which is ~2 times higher than LiF based commercial phosphor (TLD-100) irradiated with gamma dose of 0.1 Gy. The phosphor shows a linear dose response in the range of 0.1–20 Gy with almost constant decay rate. The phosphor has shown low residual signal which is good for its repetitive use. The OSL decay curve has been analysed and related parameters such as photoionization cross-section and decay constant are determined. ESR study has been done to identify the defect centres and describing the role of point defects and charge compensators involved in the luminescence process. This reveals the existence of Cu in Cu+ or Cu0 state. Good OSL properties suggests MCNS phosphor has a potential as a OSL dosimeter. The current study adds new knowledge and opens a new window to improve the OSL sensitivity of LiF material. • OSL dosimetry properties of LiF: MCNS in nanocrystalline form has been studied first time. • A strong OSL signal, ~2 times higher than that of TLD-100. • A linear dose response in range 0.1–20 Gy has been observed. • Defect centers are studied by Electron spin resonance. • Improved OSL properties in tissue equivalent MCNS phosphor is reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dry eye disease (DED) is one of the most common ocular disorders worldwide. The pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the development of DED are not well-understood, and thus treating DED has been a significant challenge for ophthalmologists. Most of the currently available diagnostic tests demonstrate low correlation to patient symptoms and have low reproducibility. Methods: Recently, sophisticated in vivo imaging modalities have become available for patient care, namely, in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) and optical coherence tomography (OCT). These emerging modalities are powerful and non-invasive, allowing real-time visualization of cellular and anatomical structures of the cornea and ocular surface. Here we discuss how, by providing both qualitative and quantitative assessment, these techniques can be used to demonstrate early subclinical disease, grade layer-by-layer severity, and allow monitoring of disease severity by cellular alterations. Imaging-guided stratification of patients may also be possible in conjunction with clinical examination methods. Conclusions: Visualization of subclinical changes and stratification of patients in vivo allows objective image-guided evaluation of tailored treatment response based on cellular morphological alterations specific to each patient. This image-guided approach to DED may ultimately improve patient outcomes and make it possible to study the efficacy of novel therapies in clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LiF crystal doped with magnesium (Mg), copper (Cu) and phosphorous (P) was grown in the form of multicrystalline sheet using Edge-defined film-fed growth (EFG) technique for dosimetry application. These crystals were grown in argon gas atmosphere using graphite crucible and stainless steel die. Dosimetry peak was observed at 210 °C for as-grown crystal. As reported earlier LiF:Mg, Cu, P is a highly sensitive material but losses its sensitivity if annealed at temperature above 240 °C. In this paper, the effect of annealing temperature on thermoluminescence glow-curve structure, maximum peak temperature, peak height and integrated area of the glow peak of EFG grown samples was investigated in detail. Annealing temperature range from 220 °C to 500 °C was considered for the study. Experimental results of the obtained glow curve show that with increase in annealing temperature, glow peak shift towards higher temperature region with substantial increase in TL intensity. Annealing at 500 °C for 10 min gave maximum TL intensity with main dosimetry peak positioned at 233 °C. Change in the defect structure with different pre-annealing temperature was analysed using trapping parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The Rhodamine 6G (R6G) dye sample synthesized by thermal evaporation method is irradiated by 120 MeV Ag+9 ions at different fluences from 1 × 1011 ion/cm2 to 3 × 1012 ion/cm2. These samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) absorption spectroscopy and photo-conductivity measurements. In XRD, it is observed that amorphous nature of dye films increases with fluence and hence aggregates of dye molecules spread homogeneously on the substrate after irradiation. The absorption spectroscopy and photoconductivity results show maximum absorption and minimum photoresistivity at lowest fluence. The properties of the dye films such as increase in amorphous nature, increase in absorption peak area and marginal increase in photoconductivity are favorable for Dye-sensitize solar cell (DSSC) applications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: LiF crystals doped with different concentration of Mg from 0 to 2000ppm have been grown by edge defined film fed growth technique. The X-ray diffraction measurement confirms the incorporation of the Mg in the lattice. Thermoluminescence and optical absorption measurements have been made on as-grown and annealed crystals after they were irradiated with a gamma dose of 15 and 1500Gy, respectively. The TL glow peak temperature and intensity increase up to 500ppm in case of the as-grown crystals and up to 1000ppm in the annealed crystals and decrease thereafter. The normalized peak height of the annealed crystals is nearly three times that of the as grown crystals for the particular concentration. Corresponding optical absorption spectra of the crystals exhibit prominent bands at 250 and 310nm. The 310nm band increases with increase in concentration of Mg and also with annealing. The changes in the TL glow curves are correlated with those of the optical absorption bands to conclude that the 310 band is due to the Mg related Z2 center. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A 47-year-old African-American woman was admitted to the intensive care unit of our community hospital for respiratory failure secondary to severe decompensated heart failure, requiring intubation. In the ensuing days, she developed a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection of the cornea, despite no growth of MRSA in multiple blood, sputum, and urine cultures. This unexpected corneal infection complicated her hospital stay, and increased morbidity and disease-related cost. Risk factors, warning signs, and preventative measures for MRSA keratitis secondary to lagophthalmos (inability to completely close one's eyelids) are outlined in this case report. Implementing simple precautions such as taping eyelids shut or using artificial lubrication may reduce patient morbidity and disease-related costs. These recommendations are directed to non-ophthalmic clinicians who provide care to patients in settings where MRSA colonization is widespread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented regarding a 65-year-old male patient with Muir-Torre syndrome (MTS) and was treated with the combination of interferon (IFN-alpha2a) with retinoids (isotretinoin).

A detailed TL investigation on MgO:Li,Tb,Sm phosphor has been carried out by studying several TL characteristics - TL glow curve structure, dose response, linearity dose behaviour, fading and reproducibility. TL glow curve structure of the phosphor reveals the presence of two TL glow peaks. The main TL glow peak of high intensity is observed at high temperature side i.e. at 162 °C and another peak of low intensity is observed at 316 °C. Further, the effect of dose on TL response of the phosphor has been studied and a new behaviour is noticed. With increasing doses, the position of main TL glow peak is similar while the second TL glow peak vanishes at higher doses. A linear TL response is observed from 10 Gy–700 Gy and becomes sublinear above 700 Gy. Low TL fading characteristics and good reproducibility have also been observed. Encouraging results suggest the applicability of doped MgO phosphor for the detection of gamma rays. • MgO:Li,Tb,Sm phosphor is synthesized using combustion method. • TL dose response is studied in the dose range 10 Gy–2000 Gy. • Single TL glow peak is present at higher doses (>200 Gy). • Linear TL dose region is observed in the dose range 10 Gy–700 Gy. • Interesting TL results are favorable for high dose gamma dosimetry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clustering algorithms can be optimized using nature‐inspired techniques. Many algorithms inspired by nature, namely, firefly algorithm, ant colony optimization algorithm, and so forth, have improved clustering results. k‐means is a popular clustering technique but has limitations of local optima, which have been overcome using its various hybrids. k‐means++ is a hybrid k‐means clustering algorithm that gives the procedure to initialize centre of the clusters. In the proposed work, hybrids of nature‐inspired techniques using cuckoo and krill herd algorithm are implemented on k‐means++ algorithm to enhance cluster quality and generate optimized clusters. The designed algorithms are implemented, and the results are compared with their counterparts. Performance parameters such as accuracy, f‐measure, error rate, standard deviation, CPU time, cluster quality check, and so forth are used to measure the clustering capabilities of these algorithms. The results indicate the high performance of newly designed algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new fifteen-level stepped DC to AC hybrid converter is proposed for Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) applications. A boost chopper circuit is designed and interfaced with the fifteen-level hybrid converters specific to Electric Vehicles' Brushless DC Motor (BLDC) drive systems. In chopper units, the output of solar panels is regulated and stepped up to obtain the nominal output voltage. In the stepped DC-link hybrid converter configuration, fifteen-level DC-link voltage is achieved by the series-operated DC-link modules with reduced electrical energy compression. From the comprehensive structure, it is anecdotal that the proposed topology has achieved minimum switching and power loss. Elimination of end passive components highlights the merits of the proposed hybrid systems. The reduction of controlled power semiconductor switches and gate-firing circuits has made the system more reliable than other hybrid converters. From the extensive analysis, the experimental setup has reported that 7% reduction in harmonics and a 54% reduction in controlled power switches than the existing fifteen-level converter topologies. Mitigation of power quality issues in the voltage profile of a fifteen-level multilevel hybrid converter is achieved through the implementation of dsPIC digital-controller-based gate triggering circuits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• TL properties of perovskite NaMgF 3 :Tb synthesized using solid state reaction method and melting method have been investigated. • TL properties of NaMgF 3 :Tb irradiated with gamma rays is reported firstly. • Single TL glow curve structure, linear TL response for 10 Gy – 500 Gy, low TL fading characteristics has been observed for the sample prepared using melting method. • NaMgF 3 :Tb synthesized using melting method is a potential TL dosimeter for the detection of gamma rays. NaMgF 3 is a recognized sensitive thermoluminescence (TL) dosimeter but it shows fading at room temperature which limits its use as a radiation dosimeter. It is important to improve this parameter of NaMgF 3 for its potential application in the field of radiation dosimetry. Thus, the current work focuses on enhancing the dosimetric properties of NaMgF 3 exclusively the TL fading characteristics. In the present study, Tb doped NaMgF 3 has been synthesized by two different methods i.e. solid state reaction method (SSR) and melting method (MT). A comparative and detailed TL studies have been carried out after irradiation with gamma rays which has not been reported so far. Detailed analysis of TL and Photoluminescence (PL) properties reveal that NaMgF 3 :Tb prepared via MT shows good luminescence properties in comparison to SSR and previously reported results. Thus, Tb doped NaMgF 3 synthesized by melting method can be a potential dosimeter for the detection of gamma rays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of our study was to explore the impact of elective-surgery deferment on the United States health-care system and subsequent recovery after COVID-19 containment. Using an orthopaedic elective surgery model, we aimed to answer the following: (1) What is the expected recovery time until the health-care system is back to nearly full capacity for performing elective surgery? (2) What will be the expected backlog of elective surgery over time? (3) How should health care change to address the backlog?Methods: A Monte Carlo stochastic simulation-based analysis was performed to forecast the post-pandemic volume of elective, inpatient total joint arthroplasty and spinal fusion surgical cases. The cumulative backlog was calculated and analyzed. We tested model assumptions with sensitivity analyses.Results: Assuming that elective orthopaedic surgery resumes in June 2020, it will take 7, 12, and 16 months-in optimistic, ambivalent, and pessimistic scenarios, respectively-until the health-care system can perform 90% of the expected pre-pandemic forecasted volume of surgery. In the optimistic scenario, there will be a cumulative backlog of >1 million surgical cases at 2 years after the end of elective-surgery deferment.Conclusions: The deferment of elective surgical cases during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic will have a lasting impact on the United States health-care system. As part of disaster mitigation, it is critical to start planning for recovery now. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have numerically calculated the effective resistance ( R eff ) and transmittance (% T) of two-dimensional films. These transparent conductive films are considered to be composed of widthless nanowires like fillers randomly placed onto the non-conducting substrate. We have completely considered all the fundamental and geometric aspects (constant length, random orientation) of system. The simulated model outputs the values which are clearly the result of connectivity of the components of network. The conductivity of the system is estimated using percolation theory. The effect of adding wires of longer length on optoelectronic properties of networks is probed. We have demonstrated that the highest improvement in the system's conductivity and transmittance is 8 % for the concentration of longer wires taken into consideration when the bidisperse distribution of length, or combination of two constant lengths of nanowires, is taken into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corneal perforations are ophthalmological emergencies which can have serious and detrimental consequences, if not managed timely and appropriately. These are a significant cause of ocular morbidity and can result in decreased vision, blindness, and even loss of the eye. Corneal perforations can be managed using a range of treatment approaches, including temporary solutions such as the application of corneal glue and bandage contact lens, as well as definitive treatment such as corneal transplantation. Tissue glues/adhesives were developed as substitutes for sutures in ophthalmic surgery. Unlike sutures, these glues are associated with shorter overall surgical times and reduced inflammation, thus improving postoperative comfort without compromising wound strength. The available tissue adhesives can be broadly classified into two types: synthetic (eg, cyanoacrylate derivatives) and biological (eg, fibrin glue). Cyanoacrylate glue is chiefly used as a corneal patch to manage acute corneal perforations and improve visual outcomes. Fibrin glue can be used instead of cyanoacrylate glue in many conditions with the benefits of reduced conjunctival and corneal inflammation and reaction. Apart from this, each type of adhesive is distinct in terms of its benefits as well as limitations and is accordingly used for different indications. The present review focuses on the two main types of tissue adhesives, their applications in the management of corneal perforations, the associated complications, safety and efficacy data related to their use available in the literature and the need for newer adhesives in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dry eye disease (DED) is a multifactorial ocular surface disease that causes symptoms of ocular pain, discomfort, and decreased visual acuity. It significantly affects quality of life of patients. It is more prevalent in the females and is being specifically in the menopausal and postmenopausal age group. This is believed to be due to the changes in balance of sex hormones. Sex hormones - estrogens and androgens - influence production of all components of the tear film including aqueous layer, lipid, and mucin. Various mechanisms such as decrease in hormonal levels, shift in feedback mechanisms, and changes in receptor receptivity interplay to alter the ocular surface homeostasis and subsequently result in DED. Several studies have suggested potential role of hormone replacement therapy in menopause-associated dry eye symptoms. The purpose of this review is to help the non ophthalmic physicians about DED encountered commonly in menopausal age group. It is important for primary care physicians to understand DED due to its high prevalence, often debilitating symptoms and the potentially preventable and treatable nature of the condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent clinical research has highlighted important links between a number of diseases and the tortuosity of curvilinear anatomical structures like corneal nerve fibres, suggesting that tortuosity changes might detect early stages of specific conditions. Currently, clinical studies are mainly based on subjective, visual assessment, with limited repeatability and inter-observer agreement. To address these problems, we propose a fully automated framework for image-level tortuosity estimation, consisting of a hybrid segmentation method and a highly adaptable, definition-free tortuosity estimation algorithm. The former combines an appearance model, based on a Scale and Curvature-Invariant Ridge Detector (SCIRD), with a context model, including multi-range learned context filters. The latter is based on a novel tortuosity estimation paradigm in which discriminative, multi-scale features can be automatically learned for specific anatomical objects and diseases. Experimental results on 140 in vivo confocal microscopy images of corneal nerve fibres from healthy and unhealthy subjects demonstrate the excellent performance of our method compared to state-of-the-art approaches and ground truth annotations from 3 expert observers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Allaying anxiety and providing calm children in the operating room is a challenging task for anesthesiologists. This study was designed to compare the use of nebulized dexmedetomidine and ketamine for premedication in pediatric patients under general anesthesia. Methods: Seventy patients, aged 2 to 8 years of both sexes, with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I/II scheduled for hernia repair surgery under general anesthesia, were randomized to two equal groups using a computer-generated random number table. Patients in group D received dexmedetomidine (2 μg/kg), and patients in group K received ketamine (2 mg/kg) by a jet nebulizer before the induction of anesthesia. The study’s primary objective was comparing the level of sedation, which was achieved at 30 min after a study drug administration using the Ramsay sedation scale, between the two groups. The secondary objectives were the two-group comparison of parental separation anxiety scale, acceptance of the mask, hemodynamic variables, recovery time, incidence of emergence agitation, and adverse events. Results: The median Ramsay sedation scale at 30 min was 3 (1–4) in group D and 3 (1–3) in group K (P = 0.002). Patients in group D had a more acceptable parental separation anxiety scale (P = 0.001) and a satisfactory mask acceptance scale (P = 0.042). Conclusions: Nebulized dexmedetomidine (2 μg/kg) provided better sedation along with smooth parental separation and satisfactory mask acceptance during induction of anesthesia with a similar emergence agitation profile and adverse reactions compared to nebulized ketamine in pediatric patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transparent conducting oxides (TCOs) are used as electrodes in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) because of their properties such as high transmittance and low resistivity. In the present work, the effects of swift heavy ion (SHI) irradiation on various types of TCOs are presented. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of SHI on TCOs. For the present study, three different types of TCOs are considered, namely, (a) FTO (fluorine-doped tin oxide, SnO 2 :F) on a Nippon glass substrate, (b) ITO (indium tin oxide, In 2 O 3 :Sn) coated on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) on a Corning glass substrate, and (c) ITO on a Corning glass substrate. These films are irradiated with 120 MeV Ag +9 ions at fluences ranging from 3.0 × 10 11 ions/cm 2 to 3.0 × 10 13 ions/cm 2 . The structural, morphological, optical and electrical properties are studied via X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy and four-probe resistivity measurements, respectively. The ITO-PET electrode is found to exhibit superior conductivity and transmittance properties in comparison with the others after irradiation and, therefore, to be the most suitable for solar cell applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MgO is drawing considerable attention owing mainly due to its tissue equivalency (Z eff = 10.8) and excellent luminescence response. In this work, we report the synthesis and investigation of a highly sensitive MgO: Li, Sm phosphor in nanocrystalline form for TL dosimetry application. The structural and morphological study has been done using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). TL intensity of gamma irradiated MgO nanophosphor increases with doping of Li and further improves by co-doping with Sm. The MgO: Li, Sm nanophosphor exhibit TL glow curve structure having isolated single peak at 169 °C and linearity in the low dose (13 mGy-5 Gy) as well as high dose range (10–1000 Gy). The TL structure and peak position remains stable at all doses. The phosphor shows excellent stability (low fading rate) and repeatability. TL intensity of MgO: Li, Sm is 12 times higher than that of commercially available LiF: Mg, Ti (TLD 100) and almost equivalent to LiF: Mg, Cu, P (TLD-700 H). This may be attributed to the formation of greater number of density of traps and suitable trapping levels with optimum dopant selection in MgO nanophosphor. The incorporation of the Sm3+ has improved the TL intensity manifold with appearance of desired isolated single peak. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra confirm the Sm3+ emission at 566, 603, 651 and 708 nm with an excitation wavelength of 315 nm. Further the role of dopants has been discussed on the basis of charge transfer mechanism and corelated with associated kinetic parameters for better understanding of TL process. The newly explored MgO: Li, Sm nanophosphor has shown attractive TL dosimetry properties owing to its high sensitivity, stable glow curve structure, dose linearity, low fading and repeatability which meet all the requirement to establish this as a next generation TL phosphor for medical and personal dosimetry application. [Display omitted] • Synthesis of MgO: Li, Sm phosphor in nanocrystalline form using solution combustion method. • TL sensitivity of MgO: Li, Sm nanophosphor is ∼12 times higher than TLD- 100 and close to TLD-700 H. • The phosphor show stable glow curve structure and good linearity. • The Sm3+ has improved the TL intensity manifold with appearance of isolated single TL peak. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Senior executive positions in hospitals have traditionally been held by men, and do not reflect the gender, racial, ethnic, and cultural diversities of the communities they serve. Despite sex parity in medical school graduates, women remain underrepresented in hospital executive leadership positions. In this study, the authors examined differences in gender composition and compensation of Maryland hospital executives. Methods: The authors examined 47 Maryland hospitals' publicly available tax forms from 2013- 2018. Data collected included hospital revenue and executive positions' count, salary, and gender. Executive positions included President and/or Chief Executive Officer (P/CEO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), and Chief Operating Officer (COO). All monetary values were inflation-adjusted to the 2017 dollar. Results: Women executives were underrepresented across most roles: P/CEO (41/272, 15%), CFO (72/260, 28%), CMO (28/182, 15%), and COO (44/147, 30%). CNO showed a higher proportion of women executives (129/140, 92%). There were no significant changes in the proportion of women executives over the study period (p=0.19). Men CNO's had significantly higher salaries as a percentage of hospital revenue (0.16% vs 0.12%, p=0.04) and men COOs had significantly higher salaries as a percentage of hospital positive profit (3.65% vs 2.24%, p<0.01). Conclusion: Data from Maryland hospitals suggest that women remain underrepresented in healthcare executive roles. Further, women executives are generally undercompensated compared to men in similar roles. This study further highlights the need for mentorship and dedicated career pathways to improve women representation in leadership roles in healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]