Alterations of adipokines, pancreatic hormones and incretins in acute and convalescent COVID-19 children

BACKGROUND

The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), accountable for Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), may cause hyperglycemia and additional systemic complexity in metabolic parameters. It is unsure even if the virus itself causes type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T1DM or T2DM). Furthermore, it is still unclear whether even recuperating COVID-19 individuals have an increased chance to develop new-onset diabetes.

METHODS

We wanted to determine the impact of COVID-19 on the levels of adipokines, pancreatic hormones, incretins and cytokines in acute COVID-19, convalescent COVID-19 and control children through an observational study. We performed a multiplex immune assay analysis and compared the plasma levels of adipocytokines, pancreatic hormones, incretins and cytokines of children presenting with acute COVID-19 infection and convalescent COVID-19.

RESULTS

Acute COVID-19 children had significantly elevated levels of adipsin, leptin, insulin, C-peptide, glucagon and ghrelin in comparison to convalescent COVID-19 and controls. Similarly, convalescent COVID-19 children had elevated levels of adipsin, leptin, insulin, C-peptide, glucagon, ghrelin and Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in comparison to control children. On the other hand, acute COVID-19 children had significantly decreased levels of adiponectin and Gastric Inhibitory Peptide (GIP) in comparison to convalescent COVID-19 and controls. Similarly, convalescent COVID-19 children had decreased levels of adiponectin and GIP in comparison to control children. Acute COVID-19 children had significantly elevated levels of cytokines, (Interferon (IFN)) IFNγ, Interleukins (IL)-2, TNFα, IL-1α, IL-1β, IFNα, IFNβ, IL-6, IL-12, IL-17A and Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factors (G-CSF) in comparison to convalescent COVID-19 and controls. Convalescent COVID-19 children had elevated levels of IFNγ, IL-2, TNFα, IL-1α, IL-1β, IFNα, IFNβ, IL-6, IL-12, IL-17A and G-CSF in comparison to control children. Additionally, Principal component Analysis (PCA) analysis distinguishes acute COVID-19 from convalescent COVID-19 and controls. The adipokines exhibited a significant correlation with the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

CONCLUSION

Children with acute COVID-19 show significant glycometabolic impairment and exaggerated cytokine responses, which is different from convalescent COVID-19 infection and controls.

Past, present, and prospects in microsporidial keratoconjunctivitis- A review

Ocular microsporidiosis comprises two entirely different spectra of disease as keratoconjunctivitis and stromal keratitis. Microsporidial keratoconjunctivitis (MKC) has been increasingly reported in the past two decades, probably due to raised awareness, simpler diagnostic procedures, and a better understanding of the clinical presentation. It is characterized by the presence of raised, coarse, punctate, multifocal, round to oval, greyish-white corneal epithelial lesions which usually evolve into nummular scars before resolution. Conjunctivitis seen is non-purulent and of mild-moderate intensity, with mixed papillary-follicular reaction. The mode of transmission and pathogenesis is poorly understood. Despite lack of inflammatory response, uncommon associations reported were- endotheliitis, corneal edema, limbitis, uveitis, and sub-epithelial infiltrates. There has been no consensus on the management of MKC. It varies from the use of multiple antimicrobial agents to simple lubricants. The majority of the disease goes underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed and treated as adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis, with topical steroids or anti-virals empirically. Changing trends have been noticed in the pattern of infection, possibly with increasing evidence of Vittaforma corneae as causative organisms, previously reported to cause stromal keratitis. An elaborate review of the past and present literature on MKC is provided in this review article, along with gaps in knowledge, and future directions of research.

Computational modeling of drug dissolution in the human stomach: Effects of posture and gastroparesis on drug bioavailability

The oral route is the most common choice for drug administration because of several advantages, such as convenience, low cost, and high patient compliance, and the demand and investment in research and development for oral drugs continue to grow. The rate of dissolution and gastric emptying of the dissolved active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) into the duodenum is modulated by gastric motility, physical properties of the pill, and the contents of the stomach, but current in vitro procedures for assessing dissolution of oral drugs are limited in their ability to recapitulate this process. This is particularly relevant for disease conditions, such as gastroparesis, that alter the anatomy and/or physiology of the stomach. In silico models of gastric biomechanics offer the potential for overcoming these limitations of existing methods. In the current study, we employ a biomimetic in silico simulator based on the realistic anatomy and morphology of the stomach (referred to as "StomachSim") to investigate and quantify the effect of body posture and stomach motility on drug bioavailability. The simulations show that changes in posture can potentially have a significant (up to 83%) effect on the emptying rate of the API into the duodenum. Similarly, a reduction in antral contractility associated with gastroparesis can also be found to significantly reduce the dissolution of the pill as well as emptying of the API into the duodenum. The simulations show that for an equivalent motility index, the reduction in gastric emptying due to neuropathic gastroparesis is larger by a factor of about five compared to myopathic gastroparesis.

Intra-orbital fat necrosis following transcaruncular orbitotomy mimicking a surgical site infection: A case report

Fat necrosis is a benign non-suppurative inflammation of adipose tissue most commonly occurring in breast, subcutaneous tissue or intraabdominal fat post trauma, surgery, radiation. Transcaruncularorbitotomy provides a safe, rapid, and cosmetically pleasing approach to the medial wall and orbital apex. Intraorbital fat necrosis as its complication has not been documented in literature. The authors report the case of an elderly lady who presented with localized pain, swelling following a transcaruncular orbitotomy for excision biopsy of an orbital vascular mass. The etiology, clinical presentation, intraoperative finding, imaging, and possible mechanisms contributing to the pathogenesis of postsurgical orbital fat necrosis has been suggested.

Microsporidial Endotheliitis Mimicking Graft Rejection After Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to report a case of microsporidial endotheliitis masquerading as graft rejection after deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK).

METHODS

A 36-year-old man visited the clinic with complaints of blurred vision, redness, pain, watering, and whitish appearance of the black portion of his left eye. On evaluation, there was diffuse stromal edema with epithelial defect and hypopyon. Microbial keratitis resolved with macular grade scar. He underwent DALK. After 3 years, he presented with complaints of sudden diminution of vision in the same eye for 10 days. His unaided visual acuity was counting finger 1 meter. The clinical findings were circumcorneal congestion, diffuse graft edema, Descemet membrane folds, and diffuse keratic precipitates. A presumptive diagnosis of left eye graft rejection was made. Topical steroids were administered. There was significant improvement within a week. However, at 1 month, there was an increase in graft edema after the steroids were tapered. At this point, a diagnosis of endotheliitis of viral origin was made. He was then administered oral antivirals and steroids. There were 2 such waxing and waning episodes of graft edema before the graft failed. Patient underwent penetrating keratoplasty with cataract extraction with intraocular lens implantation.

RESULTS

The previous donor and host Descemet endothelium complex was sent for histopathology and polymerase chain reaction. Both histology and polymerase chain reaction were positive for microsporidia.

CONCLUSIONS

Microsporidial endotheliitis may present as graft rejection. There should be a suspicion of microsporidial infection in cases of features mimicking as endothelial rejection after DALK.

Evidence-based funding of new imaging applications and technologies by Medicare in Australia: How it happens and how it can be improved

BACKGROUND

The Medical Services Advisory Committee (MSAC) is responsible for the assessment of medical imaging tests proposed for public funding. A number of factors related to the clinical or cost effectiveness of an imaging service may impact on the funding decision.

OBJECTIVE

To determine what evidentiary and economic factors impact most on MSAC recommendations for the funding of imaging tests.

METHODS

Information was extracted on health technology assessments (HTAs) of medical imaging tests published on the MSAC website, with a funding decision between 2006 to July 2021. Imaging tests with diagnostic, staging or screening indications were eligible. Data were extracted in test-indication pairs and included data on evidence quality, quantity, consistency of findings, cost-effectiveness and financial impact. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed with adjustments for clustered data.

RESULTS

Overall, 42 imaging test applications to MSAC were included, representing 91 clinical indications. Most were diagnostic tests. The most common evidentiary concerns reported by MSAC were limited evidence (36%), low quality evidence (26%), and applicability of the data (22%). The reference standard for diagnostic accuracy was imperfect or not appropriate in 25% of the indications. In regression analyses, uncertainty about cost-effectiveness of an imaging service predicted most negative funding decisions.

CONCLUSIONS

The single biggest contributor to a negative funding decision by MSAC was uncertainty about the cost-effectiveness of the imaging service. This was likely driven by uncertainty regarding the impact on patient health. HTAs that are able to demonstrate the clinical utility of a new imaging service are more likely to publicly funded.

Post-cricoid and Upper Oesophagus Cancers Treated with Organ Preservation Using Intensity-modulated Image-guided Radiotherapy: a Phase II Prospective Study of Outcomes, Toxicity and Quality of Life

AIMS

To prospectively examine the outcomes, toxicity and quality of life (QoL) of patients with post-cricoid and upper oesophagus (PCUE) cancers treated with an organ-preservation approach of (chemo)-radiotherapy using intensity-modulated image-guided radiotherapy (IM-IGRT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This phase II prospective study was conducted at a tertiary cancer centre from February 2017 to January 2020. Forty patients with squamous cell carcinoma of PCUE of stage T1-3, N0-2, M0 were accrued. Gross exolaryngeal extension/dysfunctional larynx were major exclusion criteria. Patients received 63-66 Gy in once-daily fractions using volumetric modulated arc therapy with daily IGRT. Outcome measures included disease-related outcomes, patterns of failure, Radiation Therapy Oncology Group toxicities, feeding tube dependency and QoL.

RESULTS

The median follow-up was 22 months. Twenty-six (87.5%) patients had locoregionally advanced disease and 34 (85%) patients received (chemo)-radiotherapy. A complete response was observed in 26 (65%) patients. The 2-year locoregional control, event-free survival and cause-specific survival were 59.6%, 40.2% and 44.8%, respectively. The volume of primary tumour (GTVPvol) exceeding 28 cm³ had inferior overall survival (P = 0.005) on univariate analysis. Multivariable analysis showed GTVPvol and positron emission tomography-computed tomography maximum standardised uptake value to be independently predictive for event-free and overall survival. A feeding tube requirement at presentation was seen in 11 (27.5%) patients, whereas long-term feeding tube dependency at 6 months was seen in 10 (37%) patients. For QoL, a statistical improvement in pain, appetite loss and swallowing was observed over time.

CONCLUSION

Although the outcomes of PCUE cancers remain dismal, the use of state of the art diagnostic modalities, careful case selection and modern radiotherapy techniques improved outcomes as compared with before in this exclusive analysis of PCUE cancers.

The Oncogene MYCN Modulates Glycolytic and Invasive Genes to Enhance Cell Viability and Migration in Human Retinoblastoma

Retinoblastoma is usually initiated by biallelic RB1 gene inactivation. In addition, MYCN copy number alterations also contribute to RB pathogenesis. However, MYCN expression, its role in disease progression and correlation with RB histological risk factors are not well understood. We studied the expression of MYCN in enucleated RB patient specimens by immunohistochemistry. MYCN is overexpressed in RB compared to control retina. Our microarray gene expression analysis followed by qRT-PCR validation revealed that genes involved in glucose metabolism and migration are significantly downregulated in MYCN knockdown cells. Further, targeting MYCN in RB cells using small molecule compounds or shRNAs led to decreased cell survival and migration, increased apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, suggesting that MYCN inhibition can be a potential therapeutic strategy. We also noted that MYCN inhibition results in reduction in glucose uptake, lactate production, ROS levels and gelatinolytic activity of active-MMP9, explaining a possible mechanism of MYCN in RB. Taking clues from our findings, we tested a combination treatment of RB cells with carboplatin and MYCN inhibitors to find enhanced therapeutic efficacy compared to single drug treatment. Thus, MYCN inhibition can be a potential therapeutic strategy in combination with existing chemotherapy drugs to restrict tumor cell growth in RB.

Changing patterns of posterior segment trauma during the COVID-19 pandemic: A regional analysis from the Bodhya Eye Consortium

Purpose

To assess changes in the presentation patterns of posterior segment trauma during the COVID-19 pandemic from six tertiary eye care institutes of North and Central India.

Methods

A multicenter, hospital-based, retrospective comparative analysis of patients presenting with posterior segment trauma was done during the COVID-19 (Group A) (March 25, 2020 - September 30, 2020) period and the pre-COVID-19 (Group B) (March 25, 2019 - September 30, 2019) period.

Results

A total of 405 patients were diagnosed with posterior segment trauma (Group A: 206, Group B: 199). The time interval between onset of trauma and presentation was higher in Group A (16.59 ± 29.87 days) as compared to Group B (9.41 ± 19.19 days) (P = 0.004). A majority of patients in Group A had a history of prior consultation before presentation (P = 0.049). In Group A, 120 (58.2%) patients sustained ocular trauma at home as compared to 80 (40.2%) patients in Group B (P < 0.0001). Patients presenting with light perception were significantly more in Group A (43.7%) as compared to Group B (30.2%) (P = 0.004). In Group B, 37.6% patients had presenting visual acuity of counting finger or better as compared to 27.6% patients in Group A (P = 0.07). Patients in Group A had a significantly higher proportion of post-traumatic endophthalmitis with delayed presentation (P = 0.011) and retinal detachment (P = 0.041). Patients undergoing surgery for foreign-body removal were significantly fewer in Group A (P = 0.05).

Conclusion

Although the number of patients presenting with posterior segment trauma was comparable in Groups A and B, a greater number of patients sustained home injuries during the COVID-19 pandemic. A majority of these patients had delayed presentation with poor presenting visual acuity and a higher tendency of retinal detachment.

Pythium keratitis: Clinical profile, laboratory diagnosis, treatment, and histopathology features post-treatment at a tertiary eye care center in Eastern India

Purpose:

The aim of this work was to study demography, clinical profile, laboratory diagnosis, and management of Pythium keratitis at a tertiary eye care center in Eastern India.

Methods:

Eighteen patients with culture-positive Pythium keratitis managed at our center between January 2016 and December 2018 were included in this retrospective study. Clinical features, laboratory investigations, treatment, and outcomes were analysed.

Results:

Pythium keratitis commonly affects middle-aged males with low socioeconomic profile and history of trauma. Samples stained with Gomori methenamine silver showed 93.8% positivity and Iodine-potassium iodide-sulfuric acid showed 100% positivity. Periodic acid-Schiff's showed negative staining in 62.5% and weak in 37.5%. Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method showed zone of inhibition as 30.25 ± 4.61 mm for Linezolid and 23.56 ± 6.86 mm for Azithromycin. Medical management included topical/oral linezolid and azithromycin. Therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty (TPK) was done in 15 eyes (83.3%), repeat TPK in 4 eyes, and evisceration in 3 eyes (16.7%). One patient required only medical treatment. Globe salvation was obtained in 15 (83.3%) eyes, and good visual outcome in 7 eyes (38. 9%). There was graft failure in six eyes (40%) and two (11.1%) eyes went into phthisis. Patients were divided into early and late presenters. Late presenters had more complications and worse final visual outcome.

Conclusion:

Pythium keratitis can be differentiated from fungal keratitis by its characteristic appearance on slit-lamp examination, smear, culture, and histopathology. Early presentation, detection, and treatment with antibacterial drugs like linezolid and azithromycin results in a better prognosis. Early full-thickness corneal transplant should be considered for Pythium keratitis not responding to treatment.

Acid and heat fastness in microsporidia: How acid fast are acid fast microsporidium?

Microsporidia are obligate spore-forming microorganisms with strong resemblance to fungi and can affect almost every organ system in immunocompetent or immunocompromised individuals. Mixed infections are also reported in immunocompromised hosts. Microsporidial spores show marked morphological variations and the small and slender forms can resemble bacilli. Modified Zeihl Neelsen (ZN) stain, cold method demonstrates them as bright red in color, leaving several spores blue or incompletely stained; thus, they are reported as weakly or variably acid fast. Variability in staining results with ZN stain and considering the fact that Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the commoner bug in developing countries is identified by its resistance to stronger acids on ZN staining, authors wished to demonstrate acid and heat fastness in microsporidium using corneal tissue specimens. Microsporidial spores stained bright red in color with conventional ZN stain, demonstrated strong acid fastness, and interestingly the staining results improved on heating. Thus, the authors conclude that they are strongly acid and heat fast and care must be warranted so that they are not misdiagnosed as Mycobacterium or other acid-fast organisms. Careful observation of morphology, battery of special stains, and molecular diagnostics should be advocated for diagnostic confirmation. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first explicit report on acid and heat fastness on microsporidial spores.

Computational insights of phytochemical-driven disruption of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase-mediated replication of coronavirus: a strategic treatment plan against coronavirus disease 2019

The current pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has raised global health concerns. RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) is the prime component of viral replication/proliferation machinery and is considered to be a potential drug target against SARS-CoV-2. The present study investigated the anti-RdRp activity of phytochemicals against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Virtual ligand screening was carried out to determine the potent compounds against RdRp. Molecular docking and an MD Simulation study were employed to evaluate the spatial affinity of selected phytochemicals for the active sites of RdRp. Structural stability of target compounds was determined using root mean square deviation computational analysis and drug-like abilities were investigated using ADMET. Bond distances between ligand and receptor were marked to predict the strength of interaction. Aloe, azadirachtin, columbin, cirsilineol, nimbiol, nimbocinol and sage exhibited the highest binding affinities and interacted with active sites of RdRp, surpassing the ability of chloroquine, lamivudine, favipiravir and remdesivir to target the same. All the natural metabolites exhibited stable conformation during MD Simulation of 101 ns at 310 K. Kinetic, potential and electrostatic energy were observed to be least in the case of natural metabolites in comparison with synthetic analogues. Deviations and fluctuations were observed to be structurally least in target phytochemicals. Physiochemical and biological properties of these compounds further validated their drug-like properties. Non-bonded distance was found to be short enough to form hydrogen bonding or hydrophobic interactions, which revealed that these target compounds can strongly bind with RdRp. The study found potential phytochemicals to disrupt the replication domain of SARS-CoV-2 by hindering RdRp. We therefore anticipate that the current findings could be considered as valuable for the development of an efficient preventive/therapeutic expedient against COVID-19.

Use of impregnated catheters to decrease colonization rates in neonates - A randomized controlled pilot trial

OBJECTIVE

Nosocomial infections increase mortality and morbidity in preterm infants. Central venous line colonization is a major risk factor for the development of such infections. In adults and children, antibiotic and antimycotic impregnated catheters have been demonstrated to reduce colonization. However, recently published data showed no significant difference in bloodstream infection in neonates when an impregnated catheter was used. We investigated the effect of impregnation of percutaneously inserted micro-catheters (PICC) on colonization in preterm and sick term infants in our unit.

METHODS

Neonates were randomly assigned to receive either a standard (S-PICC; n = 34) or antibiotic and antimycotic impregnated (IP-PICC; n = 37) PICC. Catheters were placed and removed according to a standard procedure and subsequently examined by roll-out culture. The primary outcome was the rate of colonization defined as >15 colony-forming-units/ml. Additional outcomes were catheter associated or systemic infections.

RESULTS

The rate of colonization was lower in neonates who received an IP-PICC as compared to S-PICC (5.6% vs. 12.1% respectively; p = 0.42). However, the difference was not significant. In IP-PICC vs S-PICC, catheter related local infection (CRI) although lower was not statistically significant (2.9% vs. 6.1%; p = 0.60). We observed no difference in catheter related systemic infection (CR-SI) (0% vs. 3.1%, p = 0.48). The neonates whose catheters were colonized were predominantly of a lower gestational age (median 254/7, p = 0.05) and males (100%, p = 0.01). In addition, the median colony count in the colonized IP-PICC catheters was lower as compared to S- PICC group (53 vs 250, p = 0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of antibiotic and antimycotic impregnated PICC-lines in neonates tended to decrease colonization rates in neonates in our centers but this difference was not significant. Lower gestational age and male sex are risk factors for catheter colonization.

Aurora Kinase B Expression, Its Regulation and Therapeutic Targeting in Human Retinoblastoma

Purpose

Aurora kinase B (AURKB) plays a pivotal role in the regulation of mitosis and is gaining prominence as a therapeutic target in cancers; however, the role of AURKB in retinoblastoma (RB) has not been studied. The purpose of this study was to determine if AURKB plays a role in RB, how its expression is regulated, and whether it could be specifically targeted.

Methods

The protein expression of AURKB was determined using immunohistochemistry in human RB patient specimens and immunoblotting in cell lines. Pharmacological inhibition and shRNA-mediated knockdown were used to understand the role of AURKB in cell viability, apoptosis, and cell cycle distribution. Cell viability in response to AURKB inhibition was also assessed in enucleated RB specimens. Immunoblotting was employed to determine the protein levels of phospho-histone H3, p53, p21, and MYCN. Chromatin immunoprecipitation–qPCR was performed to verify the binding of MYCN on the promoter region of AURKB.

Results

The expression of AURKB was found to be markedly elevated in human RB tissues, and the overexpression significantly correlated with optic nerve and anterior chamber invasion. Targeting AURKB with small-molecule inhibitors and shRNAs resulted in reduced cell survival and increased apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase. More importantly, primary RB specimens showed decreased cell viability in response to pharmacological AURKB inhibition. Additional studies have demonstrated that the MYCN oncogene regulates the expression of AURKB in RB.

Conclusions

AURKB is overexpressed in RB, and targeting it could serve as a novel therapeutic strategy to restrict tumor cell growth.

Dematiaceous fungal invasion of a bandage contact lens

A 61-year-old man presented with a 1-month history of reduced vision, redness and pain in the right eye. Examination revealed a bandage contact lens (BCL) in situ with diffuse, pigmented deposits. On removal, the underlying cornea was found to be clear. He had been prescribed the BCL 6 months ago following a deep-seated corneal foreign body removal and was unable to follow-up subsequently.The BCL was sent for microbiological and histopathological evaluation. The culture revealed growth of Cladosporium spp, a dematiaceous fungi. Periodic acid-Schiff staining revealed infiltration of pigmented fungal filaments into the substance of the BCL.While contact lens deposits are a frequent finding, fungal deposits are seldom noted. Irregular follow-up and improper lens maintenance are significant risk factors for the same. Early identification and subsequent removal of the lens is vital to prevent infection of the underlying ocular structures.

Detection of Suspicious or Un-Trusted Users in Crypto-Currency Financial Trading Applications

In this age, where cryptocurrencies are slowly creeping into the banking services and making a name for them, it is becoming crucially essential to figure out the security concerns when users make transactions. This paper investigates the untrusted users of cryptocurrency transaction services, which are connected using smartphones and computers. However, as technology is increasing, transaction frauds are growing, and there is a need to detect vulnerabilities in systems. A methodology is proposed to identify suspicious users based on their reputation score by collaborating centrality measures and machine learning techniques. The results are validated on two cryptocurrencies network datasets, Bitcoin-OTC, and Bitcoin-Alpha, which contain information of the system formed by the users and the user's trust score. Results found that the proposed approach provides improved and accurate results. Hence, the fusion of machine learning with centrality measures provides a highly robust system and can be adapted to prevent smart devices' financial services.

Preoperative embolisation of orbital solitary fibrous tumour

Solitary fibrous tumours (SFT) is an encompassing terminology comprising of tumours with proliferating CD34 positive specialised fibroblasts. Orbital SFTs are rare slowly progressive highly vascular neoplasms. Complete surgical excision is considered the mainstay treatment. Incomplete resection is a known risk factor for recurrence and malignant transformation. Recently preoperative embolisation of SFT has shown promising results in reducing the vascularity of these tumours rendering them amenable to complete surgical excision. Less than 10 cases of embolisation of orbital solitary fibrous tumours have been described in literature. Our patient underwent an attempted surgical excision elsewhere with significant intraoperative haemorrhage which precluded its complete excision. Herein, we report successful outcome in a case of hypervascular orbital SFT managed with preoperative embolisation, surgical resection and adjuvant radiotherapy along with a review of relevant literature.

Proximal and Distal Influences on Fresh Management Graduate’s Employability: A Review of Literature and Orientations

The paper explores the factors that affect proximal and distal employability behavior within the employer satisfaction perspective a vis recruitment of the fresh management graduates. The study undertakes a comprehensive review of the literature and categories the literature as divided across three broad streams: individual preparedness, institutional support mechanisms and organization support to career enhancement. The ‘determinants’ of employer satisfaction in recruiting the fresh management post graduates and their effective operationalization is indeed challenging. The paper attempts to explore and bring together the divergent pieces of literature under the proximal and distal perspectives as shaping ‘employability’ prospects.

Antimicrobial peptides in human corneal tissue of patients with fungal keratitis

BACKGROUND

Fungal keratitis (FK) is the leading cause of unilateral blindness in the developing world. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been shown to play an important role on human ocular surface (OS) during bacterial, viral and protozoan infections. In this study, our aim was to profile a spectrum of AMPs in corneal tissue from patients with FK during the active pase of infection and after healing.

METHODS

OS samples were collected from patients at presentation by impression cytology and scraping. Corneal button specimens were collected from patients undergoing therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty for management of severe FK or healed keratitis. Gene expression of human beta-defensin (HBD)-1, -2, -3 and -9, S100A7, and LL-37 was determined by quantitative real-time PCR.

RESULTS

Messenger RNA expression (mRNA) for all AMPs was shown to be significantly upregulated in FK samples. The levels of HBD-1 and -2 mRNA were found to be elevated in 18/20 FK samples. Whereas mRNA for HBD-3 and S100A7 was upregulated in 11/20 and HBD9 was increased in 15/20 FK samples. LL-37 mRNA showed moderate upregulation in 7/20 FK samples compared with controls. In healed scar samples, mRNA of all AMPs was found to be low and matching the levels in controls.

CONCLUSION

AMP expression is a consistent feature of FK, but not all AMPs are equally expressed. HBD-1 and -2 are most consistently expressed and LL-37 the least, suggesting some specificity of AMP expression related to FK. These results will help to identify HBD sequence templates for designing FK-specific peptides to test for therapeutic potential.

Migratory serpiginous corneal epitheliopathy (MSCE)- details of 4 cases

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To describe four cases of recurrent, fleeting corneal epithelial lesion, migratory serpiginous corneal epitheliopathy (MSCE).

METHOD

Description of cases, histopathology and discussion of treatment outcome.

RESULTS

The study included 4 consecutive male patients; mean age was 21.25 years. Only one eye was affected. The common symptoms were irritation and tearing. Typical interpalpebral corneal lesion was a superficial greyish-white elevated corneal epithelium with stippled fluorescein staining in various geographic patterns. Corneal scrapings did not show any microorganisms and culture was negative; histopathology did not show corneal dysplasia. The lesions recurred within 1-3 weeks despite repeated scraping, application of a bandage contact lens, and a combination of topical antibiotics and lubricants. The recurrent lesion was of a different shape and eventually healed within 3-6 months without scarring.

CONCLUSION

We describe a possibly new entity, unilateral migratory serpiginous corneal epitheliopathy (MSCE) affecting young males, with inconspicuous inflammation. Etiology is not known and usually takes several months to heal after repeated epithelial debridement.

Phonons and oxygen diffusion in Bi2O3and (Bi0.7Y0.3)2O3

We report investigation of phonons and oxygen diffusion in Bi2O3and (Bi0.7Y0.3)2O3. The phonon spectra have been measured in Bi2O3at high temperatures up to 1083 K using inelastic neutron scattering.Ab initiocalculations have been used to compute the individual contributions of the constituent atoms in Bi2O3and (Bi0.7Y0.3)2O3to the total phonon density of states. Our computed results indicate that as temperature is increased, there is a complete loss of sharp peak structure in the vibrational density of states.Ab initiomolecular dynamics simulations show that even at 1000 K in δ-phase Bi2O3, Bi-Bi correlations remain ordered in the crystalline lattice while the correlations between O-O show liquid like disordered behavior. In the case of (Bi0.7Y0.3)2O3, the O-O correlations broadened at around 500 K indicating that oxygen conductivity is possible at such low temperatures in (Bi0.7Y0.3)2O3although the conductivity is much less than that observed in the undoped high temperature δ-phase of Bi2O3. This result is consistent with the calculated diffusion coefficients of oxygen and observation by quasielastic neutron scattering experiments. Ourab initiomolecular dynamics calculations predict that macroscopic diffusion is attainable in (Bi0.7Y0.3)2O3at much lower temperatures, which is more suited for technological applications. Our studies elucidate the easy directions of diffusion in δ-Bi2O3and (Bi0.7Y0.3)2O3.

Efficacy and safety comparison of combination of 0.04% tretinoin microspheres plus 1% clindamycin versus their monotherapy in patients with acne vulgaris: a phase 3, randomized, double-blind study

Background and objectives: There is an unmet need for topical treatments with good tolerability in management of acne vulgaris. The present study aimed to evaluate efficacy and safety of a novel tretinoin (microsphere, 0.04%) formulation in combination with clindamycin (1%) gel for treatment of acne vulgaris.Materials and methods: This phase 3 randomized, double-blind study included patients with moderate-to-severe acne. Patients were treated with tretinoin (microsphere, 0.04%) + clindamycin (1%) or one of the monotherapies (tretinoin, 0.025%; clindamycin, 1%). Key endpoints included percent change in lesion counts, and improvement in Investigator's Static Global Assessment (ISGA) score.Results: 750 patients were randomized (combination, n = 300; tretinoin and clindamycin, each n = 150). At week 12, reductions in inflammatory (77%), non-inflammatory (71%) and total lesions (73%) were significantly greater with combination treatment versus either monotherapy (p < .03). Proportion of patients rated 'clear' or 'almost clear' with ≥2-grade ISGA improvement was higher with combination (46%) versus monotherapies (p < .02). Adverse events occurred in 20 patients, most were mild-moderate; no deaths or serious adverse events were reported. The discontinuation rates due to adverse events with combination therapy were low (≤1%).Conclusion: The once-daily, microsphere-based formulation was generally tolerable with a positive impact on therapeutic outcomes and patients' compliance. ClinicalTrial Registration No.: CTRI/2014/08/004830.

Infantile simple dacryops: clinicopathological correlation and immunocharacterization

Simple dacryops is a cystic lesion of the ductal structures of the palpebral lobe of the lacrimal gland and is the commonest lacrimal ductal cystic lesion in adults. We report the case of an 18-month-old girl with a painless swelling of the right temporal upper eyelid that was first noted at 4 months of age. An early surgical excision was planned to avoid deprivational amblyopia. We describe clinicopathological and immunohistochemical correlations in our case, highlighting the immuno-characterization of adjacent lacrimal gland duct and acinar structures present within the cyst wall and management of this relatively rare entity.

Intravitreal bevacizumab in treatment of iris metastasis from primary lung carcinoma

Iris metastases secondary to primary malignancy are rare and usually have poor overall survival. We report a case of a man aged 60 years who presented with chief complaints of progressive pain and redness of right eye of 5 days duration. Slit-lamp examination revealed a greyish white irregular nodular mass, arising from anterior iris surface reaching up to mid-periphery. With a clinical suspicion of iris metastasis, systemic investigations were requested. CT scan of chest reported a well-defined lobulated lesion in the lower lobe of lung with presence of multiple satellite nodules in both lungs suggestive of primary malignant neoplasm of lung. Tissue diagnosis was obtained through an iris lesion biopsy, which was opted for relative ease of approach. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis of iris metastasis secondary to non-keratinising squamous cell carcinoma of lung. Local intravitreal injection of antivascular endothelial growth factor was administered for tumour regression along with systemic chemotherapy.

Solitary orbital myofibroma in a child: A rare case report with literature review

Myofibroma is a rare benign mesenchymal tumor of uncertain histogenesis. A six-year-old boy presented with a unilateral lower eyelid mass of six weeks’ duration. MRI revealed a circumscribed mass in the inferolateral orbit with bony erosion. A systemic examination was unremarkable. Excision with histopathology revealed a partially infiltrative spindle cell tumor with bland nuclear morphology expressing smooth muscle actin and muscle-specific actin, compatible with myofibroma. Solitary myofibroma is a rare childhood orbital tumor and may clinico-radiologically closely mimic a malignancy. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry can help reach a definitive diagnosis. Systemic evaluation and close follow up are crucial in such cases.

External dacryocystorhinostomy for isolated lacrimal sac rhinosporidiosis - A suitable alternative to dacryocystectomy

Purpose:

To describe the outcome of external dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) as a suitable alternative to dacryocystectomy (DCT) in cases of isolated lacrimal sac rhinosporidiosis.

Methods:

This was a retrospective, interventional case series. Institutional review board approval was obtained for the study. The chart review of 13 patients who underwent external DCR surgery for isolated lacrimal sac rhinosporidiosis between July 2012 and May 2018 was performed. Demographic details, clinical presentation, preoperative and intraoperative findings, surgical technique used, postoperative management, surgical outcome and duration of follow up were reviewed for each patient.

Results:

Thirteen patients were included in the study. Nine (69.2%) were male and four (30.8%) were female. The mean age was 22.1 years (range: 8–46 years). Involvement was unilateral in all cases. The commonest presenting complaint was epiphora with discharge seen in 10 cases (76.9%). An intrasac granuloma was grossly identified intraoperatively in 12 out of the 13 patients. Mean follow up was 26.9 months (range: 1.5–68 months). Till the last follow up, all cases were symptom free and did not have any evidence of recurrence of infection.

Conclusion:

From this series of cases reported by the authors, external DCR with appropriate precautions to prevent recurrence appears to be a suitable alternative to conventional DCT with excellent long-term outcomes without disease recurrence.

Interplay of phosphorus doses, cyanobacterial inoculation, and elevated carbon dioxide on yield and phosphorus dynamics in cowpea

Phosphorus (P) demand is likely to increase especially in legumes to harness greater benefits of nitrogen fixation under elevated CO₂ condition. In the following study, seed yield and seed P uptake in cowpea increased by 26.8% and 20.9%, respectively, under elevated CO₂ level. With an increase in phosphorus dose up to 12 mg kg^-1, seed yield enhanced from 2.6 to 5.4 g plant^-1. P application and cyanobacterial inoculation increased the microbial activity of soil, leading to increased availability of P. Under elevated CO₂ condition, microbial activity, measured as dehydrogenase, acid phosphatase, and alkaline phosphatase activities showed stimulation. Soil available P also increased under elevated CO₂ condition and was stimulated by both P application and cyanobacterial inoculation. Higher P uptake in elevated CO₂ condition led to lower values of inorganic P in soil. Stepwise regression analysis showed that aboveground P uptake, soil available P, and alkaline phosphatase activity of soil influenced the yield while available P, and organic and inorganic P influenced the aboveground P uptake of the crop. This study revealed that under elevated CO₂ condition, P application and cyanobacterial inoculation facilitated P uptake and yield, mediated through enhanced availability of nutrients, in cowpea crop.

Utility of intraocular endoscope for lacrimal canaliculi and sac examination

PURPOSE

Intraocular endoscope was used as a dacryoendoscope, and its observations and performance in lacrimal drainage system (LDS) are reported.

METHODS

The Endo Optiks (Little Silver, New Jersey, USA), an intraocular endoscope (modified with customized sheath), was used for LDS visualization in ten normal adults and five patients with lacrimal disorders.

RESULTS

We were able to capture high-definition images of lacrimal canaliculi and sac in all normal adults. Smooth whitish canalicular mucosa with lumen could be appreciated in all normal individuals. Common canaliculus showed variable folds among individuals and reddish lacrimal sac mucosa could be appreciated with great details. In patients with canalicular obstruction, site of obstruction was presented as whitish gray area with no visible lumen, which could be opened up precisely with trephination. No false passage was formed in any of the cases. One of the cases had membranous canalicular obstruction, which was opened with probe itself. Nasolacrimal duct could not be examined due to the shorter length of the probe.

CONCLUSION

Intraocular endoscope can be used as high-resolution dacryoendoscope for visualization of lacrimal canaliculi and sac.

Small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the orbit presenting as an orbital abscess in a young female

Small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (SNEC) of the sino-nasal tract is a rare tumor with aggressive behavior. Invasion of the orbit, brain and base of skull is reported in advanced cases, however clinical presentation of SNEC, primarily as an orbital mass is distinctly rare. A 25-year-old female, presented to a local ophthalmologist with sudden protrusion of eyeball and was diagnosed as an orbital abscess which was incised and drained. She presented to us after six months of initial drainage with rapid increase in protrusion and associated eyelid swelling and was lactating at the time of presentation. The patient underwent clinico-pathological work up and was diagnosed as a primary case of orbital SNEC. She received chemotherapy, with an initial response followed by massive recurrence and subsequently succumbed to the disease after 18 months of presentation to us. The authors present a literature review and describe the challenges in diagnosis and management of a primary orbital SNEC, which has high propensity to progress, recur, invade neighboring sites, and show distant metastasis inspite of multimodal therapy. Author's recommend close follow up during disease free intervals.

Pseudo primary abscess of the cavum septum pellucidum due to pus entrapment: A rare case report

The cavum septum pellucidum (CSP) is defined as a crevice-like space of variable width between the left and right transparent septum. In this report, a rare case of pseudo primary abscess formed in the CSP due to ventriculitis is presented.