Biometric Measurements Research Articles

Prospective Cytokine Profiling in Aqueous Humor Reveals a Proinflammatory Microenvironment in Highly Dense Nuclear Cataracts.

To investigate if the cytokine profile in the aqueous humor (AH) of cataract patients varies according to cataract type and severity. This prospective study included 397 eyes of 397 patients (median age, 76 years; range, 30-94 years) who underwent standard small-incision phacoemulsification surgery. Cataracts were graded using the LOCS III system: mild (≤3), moderate (3.5-5), and severe (≥5). Biometric measurements from the IOL master 700 (Zeiss, Oberkochen, Germany) were used to differentiate between thick (>4.5 mm) and thin lenses. Information about age, gender, and self-reported diseases was obtained from patient records. Eleven different proteins were measured in AH using a multiplex cytokine assay (AYOXXA Biosystems, Cologne, Germany), including IL- 6, IL-8, angiopoietin 2, C-reactive protein (CRP), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), platelet-derived growth factor BB, placental growth factor, CXCL12, CXCL13, and CXCL10. Statistical analysis was performed using R and included nonparametrical testing, linear regression, and k-means clustering. Higher nuclear LOCS grades correlated with increased levels of CCL2 (360 vs. 387 vs. 517 pg/mL, P < 0.001), VEGF-A (270 vs. 292 vs. 390 pg/mL, P = 0.012), IL-8 (3.1 vs. 4.2 vs. 5.7 pg/mL, P = 0.018), and CXCL10 (52 vs. 61 vs. 90 pg/mL, P = 0.003). No associations were observed for cortical and subcapsular cataracts. Thicker lenses were associated with significantly increased levels of CRP, CXCL10, CXCL12, IL-6, IL-8, and VEGF-A. The cytokine profile of AH varies based on cataract grading and lens thickness. In highly dense nuclear cataracts, CCL2, VEGF-A, IL-8, and CXCL10 were elevated.

A comparative analysis of dendrometric, macromorphological, and micromorphological characteristics of Pistacia atlantica subsp. atlantica and Pistacia terebinthus in the middle Atlas region of Morocco.

The genus Pistacia, with its species having notable ecological, economic, and medicinal implications, demonstrates remarkable environmental adaptability. The central objective of the study is to analyze interspecific variations between Pistacia atlantica subsp. atlantica and Pistacia terebinthus across three distinct bioclimatic zones in the Middle Atlas region of Morocco. The methodology includes collecting dendrometric measurements and conducting macromorphological examinations on these two taxa, with a detailed analysis of 27 qualitative and quantitative variables. A micro-morphological analysis of leaves, using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), is employed to explore specific features such as size and stomatal density, as well as qualitative aspects like epidermal cell shape and trichomes. Dendrometric measurements have revealed that the canopy surface and the number of trunks per tree can serve as distinctive features between the two species. Regarding the sex ratio of Pistacia atlantica subsp. atlantica, 59% of the examined trees are males, primarily associated with the jujube tree in arid zones and the dwarf palm in humid areas. In contrast, female Pistacia terebinthus exhibit a similar percentage, predominantly associated with oak groves and cade juniper in their distribution areas. Principal component analysis of biometric measurements emphasized a significant disparity between the two species, representing 60.25% of the total variance. The use of SEM unveiled new features facilitating the identification of the two species. By leveraging the macromorphological and micromorphological variability of pistachio trees, we can qualify those best suited to diverse bioclimates. In this regard, we suggest incorporating them into reforestation and rehabilitation programs aimed at restoring our declining ecosystems.

THE STUDY OF MAIZE HYBRIDS (ZEA MAYS SPECIES L.) IN DIMAL MUNICIPALITY, BERAT

Maize is one of the most important crops in world agriculture and has a very important place in the planted area. It is cultivated for various purposes: Bread, Livestock (silage), the beer industry, the oil industry, and for bioenergy. More than five hundred different food items, dishes and drinks are produced from the maize plant. The production of hybrid seed has greatly influenced the increase in the yield of maize, both for grain and forage mass. For the conditions of Albania, the study of maize hybrids is very important, since the hybrid seed is imported and not produced in the country. The experiment involved eleven hybrids imported by the companies: ARLI International and Huqi, which respectively import from Zemun Polje and from Dekalb and KWS. Eleven hybrids were included in the study, namely: 477, 6263, 388, 735, 606, 555, 5601, 707, 666,553 B from Zemun Polje and Kulmos from KWS, Germany. The experiment was set up according to a randomized block design with eleven variants and four replications. Ten plants were determined for each replicate and variant on which biometric measurements and production indicators were made. The data was subjected to mathematical data processing to determine the best hybrid, which is adapted to the conditions of the area and gives the highest yield.

THE STUDY OF SOME POTATO CULTIVARS (Solanum tuberosum L.) IN NORTH MACEDONIA

Potatoes in North Macedonia are cultivated in an area of 13,000 ha. Its cultivation extends to plain, hilly, sub-mountainous, and mountainous areas. Cultivation technology is adapted according to the areas and soils. Cultivars that are planted in North Macedonia are imported from Holland, France, and Germany. They are tested and the most suitable cultivars are selected according to the areas. After spending several years in cultivation, they reduce the yield and replace it with a newly created cultivar and enter production gradually and step by step after a good agronomic review, testing, and adapting the cultivation technology according to the soil areas. The comparative study of cultivars is the first step to determining the most suitable cultivar according to soil areas. Twelve cultivars that were planted in the Polog region were included in the study. The sowing was done according to the randomized block scheme with twelve variants in four replications. The sowing was done on the same day and the same cultivation technology was applied. During the vegetation period, biometric measurements were made according to the methodology, and the data were processed to derive the average values of yield data and other biometric indicators. Starch analysis was done on all cultivars.

EVALUATION OF MORPHOBIOLOGICAL AND PRODUCTIVE INDICATORS OF POTATO CULTIVARS (Solanum tuberosum l.) IN THE AREA OF MYZEQE, LUSHNJE

The potato is spread all over the world, being planted in plain, hilly, sub-mountain, and mountain areas. In Albania, 10,000 to 14,000 ha of early, medium, and late potatoes are planted. In recent years, the yield of potatoes in large-scale production has increased for two reasons: First, it is planted in more productive soils and under irrigated conditions, so there are improvements in cultivation. Secondly, new cultivars with higher biological productive capacity have been introduced into cultivation. The study of morphobiological and productive indicators of potato cultivars is ongoing to achieve high and sustainable yields. This also includes the study carried out in Zhama, Lushnje, in which eleven cultivars were included, specifically: La Perla, Valencia, Aleksjo, Gaya 1, Amora, Gaya 2, Juveli, Fidel, Solo, Zisi and Melene 2. The experiment was set up on light soils according to a randomized block design with eleven variants and four replications. Planting was done with the workforce in two days, on February 8 and 9, 2023. During the vegetation, ten plants for each variant and repetition were determined on which biometric and production measurements were made, such as Plant height, number of shoots per plant, production per plant, number of grains per plant, production in percentage by weight; up to 30 g, 31 - 80 g, 81 - 120 g and over 120 g. The data was processed to determine the best cultivar.

Utility-based performance evaluation of biometric sample quality measures

The quality score of a biometric sample is intended to predict the sample’s degree of utility for biometric recognition. Different authors proposed different definitions for utility. A harmonized definition of utility would be useful to facilitate the comparison of biometric sample quality assessment algorithms. In this article, we compare different definitions of utility and apply them to both face image and fingerprint image data sets containing multiple samples per biometric instance and covering a wide range of potential quality issues. The results differ only slightly. We show that discarding samples with low utility scores results in rapidly declining false non-match rates. The obtained utility scores can be used as target labels for training biometric sample quality assessment algorithms and as baseline when summarizing utility-prediction performance in a single plot or even in a single figure of merit.

Characterization of Chronotypes Using the Symbolic Aggregate apprXimation (SAX) on Actigraphy Data.

In this study, we discuss an efficient approach to characterizing chronotypes using Symbolic Aggregate approXimation (SAX) on actigraphy data. Actigraphy, a non-invasive monitoring of human rest/activity cycles, provides valuable insights into sleep-wake behaviors and circadian rhythms. However, the high dimensionality of actigraphy data poses significant challenges in storage, processing, and analysis. To address these challenges, we applied the SAX algorithm to transform continuous time-series actigraphy data into a symbolic representation, enabling dimensionality reduction while preserving essential patterns. We analyzed actigraphy data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database, covering over 10,000 individuals, and used unsupervised clustering to identify distinct chronotype patterns. The SAX transformation facilitated the application of machine learning techniques, revealing five chronotype clusters characterized by differences in activity onset, resolution, and intensity. Age distribution analysis showed biases towards specific age groups within the clusters, highlighting the relationship between age and chronotype. Key findings include age-related Chronotype variations with younger individuals exhibiting delayed chronotypes with significant differences in sleep onset (SOT) and wake time (WT) compared to older adults, suggesting a phase delay in sleep patterns as age decreases and activity transition dynamics where clusters showed distinct patterns in winding up and winding down periods, providing insights into the dynamics of activity transitions. This study demonstrates the efficiency and effectiveness of SAX in processing large-scale actigraphy data, enabling robust chronotype characterization that can inform personalized healthcare and public health initiatives. Further exploration of SAX integration with other biometric measures could deepen our understanding of human circadian biology and its impact on health and behavior.

Application of noncontact sensors for cardiopulmonary physiology and body weight monitoring at home: A narrative review.

Monitoring health status at home has garnered increasing interest. Therefore, this study investigated the potential feasibility of using noncontact sensors in actual home settings. We searched PubMed for relevant studies published until February 19, 2024, using the keywords "home-based," "home," "monitoring," "sensor," and "noncontact." The studies included in this review involved the installation of noncontact sensors in actual home settings and the evaluation of their performance for health status monitoring. Among the 3 included studies, 2 monitored respiratory status during sleep and 1 monitored body weight and cardiopulmonary physiology. Measurements such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and body weight obtained with noncontact sensors were compared with the results obtained from polysomnography, polygraphy, and commercial scales. All included studies demonstrated that noncontact sensors produced results comparable to those of standard measurement tools, confirming their excellent capability for biometric measurements. Overall, noncontact sensors have sufficient potential for monitoring health status at home.

Assessing Fetal Circulatory Changes in Gestational Diabetes via Aortic Isthmus Doppler

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common complication during pregnancy that can negatively impact fetal heart function and structure. This study aimed to investigate the hemodynamic characteristics of the fetal aortic isthmus in patients with GDM using Doppler ultrasound parameters. Methods:This was a cross-sectional observational study including 47 pregnant patients with GDM and 47 healthy pregnant patients as controls. Fetal biometric measurements and umbilical artery Doppler values were obtained. Aortic isthmus Doppler was used to measure systolic and diastolic flow velocity time integrals (S and D), peak systolic velocity (PSV), and systolic nadir (Ns) to calculate the isthmus flow index (IFI) = (S + D)/S and isthmus systolic index (ISI) = Ns/PSV. A generalized additive model was used to analyze the relationship between IFI, ISI and gestational age. Results: Compared to controls, the GDM group had significantly lower D (2.39 cm vs. 2.76 cm), Ns (11.48 cm/s vs. 14.06 cm/s), IFI (1.24 vs. 1.27) and ISI (0.14 vs. 0.16). Curve fitting showed IFI was lower in the GDM group for most gestational weeks and decreased with advancing weeks, while ISI remained constantly lower and decreased linearly. Conclusions: Fetal aortic isthmus Doppler parameters IFI and ISI were altered in GDM pregnancies, suggesting earlier changes in aortic arch hemodynamics compared to the umbilical artery. Combining IFI and ISI may provide more comprehensive assessment of fetal circulatory changes in GDM. These findings could enhance our understanding of the pathophysiologic impacts of maternal diabetes.

Investigating the efficacy of Endolift laser and Nanofat as a combination therapy for horizontal neck lines compared to Nanofat autologous alone.

The emergence of horizontal neck wrinkles is increasingly becoming a focal point for both cosmetic professionals and clients. Various treatment approaches must be considered to address this issue effectively, owing to its diverse underlying causes. The study explores the potential of utilizing the Endolift laser in conjunction with nanofat injection as a viable treatment option. Twenty patients with horizontal neck wrinkles involved in the study. Ten patients underwent treatment with a combination of Endolift laser and nanofat injection and 10 patients treated with nanofat injection alone. The participants were monitored for 6 months post-treatment. Biometric measurements were utilized to assess outcomes, including changes in volume, depth, and area of the wrinkles, skin elasticity, as well as the diameter and density of the epidermis and dermis in the treated area. Skin improvement was evaluated by two independent dermatologists, who compared before and after photos in a blinded manner. Patient satisfaction levels were also documented. The Visioface analysis showed a notable decrease in neck wrinkle depth and area in both groups. However, the group receiving the combination treatment of Endolift laser and nanofat exhibited a significantly greater improvement compared to the group treated with nanofat alone. Skin ultrasonography results demonstrated an increase in thickness and density of the dermis and epidermis in both groups. Particularly, the group treated with Endolift laser-nanofat displayed significant enhancements in dermis and epidermis density and thickness when contrasted with the nanofat-only group. Analysis with Cutometer revealed a marked enhancement in skin elasticity in the Endolift-nanofat treated group in comparison to the nanofat-only treated group. Furthermore, in the Endolift-nanofat treated group, a substantial majority (90%) of patients exhibited improvement. Patient evaluations highlighted significant distinctions between the two groups, with 95% of patients in the Endolift-nanofat treated group demonstrating enhancement. Both methods notably enhance horizontal neck wrinkles; nevertheless, the combination of endolift laser and nanofat seems to be more efficient for treating horizontal neck wrinkles.

Body condition of stranded Razorbills and Atlantic Puffins in the Western Mediterranean.

Annual mass migrations of seabirds between their breeding and wintering grounds are critical for ensuring their survival and reproductive success. It is essential to comprehend their physical condition in order to identify the causes of death and to facilitate conservation efforts. This study focuses on evaluating the age, body condition index, and metabolites in liver and muscle (triglycerides, glycerol, glycogen, cholesterol, lactate, and glucose) of stranded Razorbills (n = 84) and Atlantic puffins (n = 11). The study was conducted along the Andalusian coast of Spain during the winter season of 2022-2023. The study examined the body condition of stranded individuals and their metabolic state to determine potential factors that may have caused their deaths. The study found that the majority of stranded individuals were juveniles. Both species exhibited low levels of carbohydrate (glucose and glycogen) in their tissues and high levels of lactate in their muscles. These findings could suggest that the individuals had undergone prolonged, strenuous exercise, demanding energy on anaerobic pathways, which may have been associated with migration. The study highlights the significance of adhering to standardized protocols when assessing the body condition of stranded seabirds. Doing so can help to identify causes of death and facilitate conservation efforts. A proposed index for body condition, which incorporates biometric measurements and individual physical condition, provides a comprehensive means of understanding the health of these unique species. This study underscores the importance of further research into the conservation measures and recommendations for protecting seabird populations. It is critical to comprehend the contributing factors of mass mortality incidents to work towards safeguarding these species and preserving their vital migration patterns.

New clinical approach in facial mild-moderate acne: Re-stabilization of skin microbiota balance with a topical biotechnological phytocomplex.

Dysbiosis of the skin microbiota has been identified as a key factor in the development of acne. This study was aimed to evaluate the effect of a facial cream gel containing a biotechnological phytocomplex, niacinamide and succinic acid on the bacterial diversity of subjects with mild-moderate acne and its clinical benefits due to microbiota changes. Open-label, clinical study in 44 subjects with mild-moderate acne treated with a facial cream gel for 8 weeks. Bacterial diversity was analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing of skin samples. Clinical effects were evaluated using the IGA acne severity scale, biometric measurements, and safety. After 56 days of product's use, an increase in alpha and beta diversity was found (p < 0.01), with a decrease in the relative abundance of C. acnes (48.99% vs. 38.83%, p < 0.001). Regarding clinical results, a decrease in acne severity on the IGA scale (27.33%, p < 0.001), number of non-inflammatory and inflammatory lesions (respectively: 31.12%, p = 0.05; 47.27%, p < 0.001), amount of sebum (89.00%, p < 0.01) and erythema (15.35%, p < 0.01), was found. [Correction added on 19 September 2024, after first online publication: In the preceding sentence, "42.27%" has been changed to "47.27%" in this version.] Responder analysis of the IGA score showed that 61.36% of patients improved by at least one point at day 56. The product was well tolerated throughout the study. The use of the facial cream gel on skin was effective in rebalancing the microbiota, inhibiting biofilm formation and other virulence factors, reducing the number of mild-moderate acne lesions and sebum secretion, and consequently improving acne's severity.

Artificial Intelligence-Based Estimation of Fetal Head Circumference With Biparietal and Occipitofrontal Diameters Using Two-Dimensional Ultrasound Images

Abstract One of the most essential biometrics for measuring fetal growth during prenatal ultrasound exams is the head circumference (HC). However, manual measurement of this biometric by doctors often needs substantial experience. Manual measurement of fetal head circumference during prenatal ultrasound exams requires significant expertise, posing limitations in accuracy and consistency, which can impact clinical decision-making and fetal health assessments. We developed a state-of-the-art image processing algorithm that utilizes biometry and segmented images and employed a fast ellipse fitting method to measure the HC, head orientation (angle) along with biparietal (BPD), and occipitofrontal (OFD) diameter automatically. Our approach offers automation and precision in measuring fetal biometrics, surpassing the limitations of manual measurement by ensuring consistent and accurate assessments, thus enhancing clinical efficiency and facilitating timely interventions for optimal fetal health management. Additionally, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that adopts a segmented image from any model or technique and provides significant fetal parameters during ultrasonography in a single shot. The suggested technique is lightweight, real-time, and easily integrate with any segmentation model or technique. We have used three well-known segmentation models for demonstration and compared their performance using dice scores as an evaluation parameter. Among the three, HRNet shows the best results with an average dice score of 0.96; due to the high dice score, we have chosen HRNet over the other two models and proceeded further and implemented our novel algorithm on that to predict the required fetal key measurements. The findings of this study benefit prenatal care by enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of fetal biometric measurements, thereby facilitating improved clinical decision-making and optimizing fetal health assessments.

An Analysis of Ocular Biometrics: A Comprehensive Retrospective Study in a Large Cohort of Pediatric Cataract Patients.

Objectives: This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of ocular biometric parameters in pediatric patients with cataracts to optimize surgical outcomes. By evaluating various biometric data, we seek to enhance the decision-making process for intraocular lens (IOL) placement, particularly with advanced technologies like femtosecond lasers. Methods: This retrospective comparative study included pediatric patients with cataracts who underwent ocular biometric measurements and cataract extraction with anterior vitrectomy at the Medical University of Vienna between January 2019 and December 2021. Parameters measured included corneal diameter (CD), axial length (AL), corneal thickness (CT) and flat and steep keratometry (Kf and Ks). The study explored the correlations between these parameters and IOL placement. Results: A total of 136 eyes from 68 pediatric patients were included in the study. Significant positive correlations were found between corneal diameter, age and AL. The mean CD was 11.4 mm, mean AL was 19.5 mm, CT was 581.2 ± 51.8 µm, Kf was 7.76 ± 0.55 mm and Ks 7.41 ± 0.59 mm, respectively. Older pediatric patients with larger corneal diameters and longer ALs were more likely to receive in-the-bag IOL implantation. Conversely, younger patients often required alternative IOL placements or remained aphakic. Our data indicated that over 95% of the study population and all patients aged one year and older had a corneal diameter of 10 mm or larger. Conclusions: Detailed ocular biometric analysis is crucial for optimizing both surgical outcomes and postoperative care in pediatric cataract patients. The positive correlations between CD, age and AL underline the importance of individualized surgical planning tailored to each patient's unique anatomical features. Additionally, our findings suggest that the use of a femtosecond laser is both feasible and safe for pediatric patients aged one year and older, potentially offering enhanced surgical precision and improved outcomes.

Sex-specific divergent responses of marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma) towards long-term benzo[a]pyrene exposure revealed stronger resilience and recoverability in female fish

Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), a representative five-membered polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, has been extensively studied as a pollutant for decades. Despite this, sex-specific responses to BaP exposure remain poorly understood. This study employed a life-cycle exposure approach to investigate the effects of prolonged BaP exposure on marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma), highlighting sex-specific responses. After a 90-day exposure period, significant variations in biometric measurements and oxidative stress markers were observed between male and female fish. BaP exposure resulted in weak detoxification defense in males, while females exhibited an opposite response. Transcriptomic analysis revealed 13 significantly enriched pathways in males and 11 in females, with varying numbers of differentially expressed genes between the sexes, highlighting distinct biological responses. Host resistance assay showed higher mortality rates among BaP-exposed males, and suppressed immune gene expressions and lysozyme activity, while females demonstrated enhanced immune genes and lysozyme activity post-challenge, indicating a more resilient defense response. Furthermore, after a one-month depuration period following BaP exposure, male medaka demonstrated slower recoverability compared to females. These findings underscore sex-specific effects of BaP exposure on fish, with females displaying stronger resilience. Understanding these distinctions are crucial for accurately assessing the impact of environmental pollutants on the aquatic population and ecosystem maintenance.

Prospective evaluation of ultrasonographic fetal cardiac morphometry and functions in the third trimester of pregnancies with gestational diabetes mellitus.

This study aimed to compare cardiac morphological and functional changes in fetuses of patients with diet-regulated gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM-A1), insulin-regulated GDM (GDM-A2), and a control group. A prospective cohort study included pregnant women aged 18-40 years with singleton pregnancies. Fetal biometric, cardiac morphological, and functional measurements were recorded using Z-scores at 34-37 weeks of gestation. The study included 87 patients. Both right and left ventricular wall thicknesses were significantly different between the three groups (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Z-scores of the mitral valve, left and right EDD were significantly lower in GDM-A1 and GDM-A2 groups compared to the control group (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.002, respectively). Right and left ventricular areas were decreased only in GDM-A2 group compared to the control group (p = 0.003 and p = 0.001, respectively). MPI and IVRT values were also significantly higher in the same groups (p = 0.016, p < 0.001, respectively). Gestational diabetes increased IVS and ventricular wall thicknesses in both right and left ventricles, irrespective of whether it was controlled by diet or insulin. Cardiac functional changes were observed in the GDM-A2 group.

Alterations in maternal cardiovascular parameters and their impact on uterine and fetal circulation in hypertensive pregnancies and fetal growth restriction

ObjectiveTo examine potential alterations in maternal cardiovascular parameters in hypertensive pregnancies with or without fetal growth restriction (FGR) in comparison to uncomplicated normotensive pregnancies, and to determine the correlation between maternal cardiovascular parameters and changes in umbilical and uterine artery circulation. Materials and methodsThis study enrolled 73 pregnant women starting from the 20th week of gestation, categorized into three groups: hypertensive conditions (pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia or eclampsia, n = 30), hypertensive conditions with FGR (n = 8) and a control group of healthy normotensive pregnant women (n = 35). All participants underwent echocardiography to assess cardiac output and calculate peripheral vascular resistance. Additionally, fetal biometric measurements and Doppler ultrasound examinations of the uterine and umbilical artery were performed. The results were standardized into gestational age-adjusted z-scores. ResultsThe mean pulsatility index (PI) of the uterine artery (1.36, p < 0.001) and umbilical artery PI z-scores (1.32, p < 0.001) showed significant increases in the hypertensive conditions + FGR group. Maternal cardiac output z-scores were notably lower in both the hypertensive + FGR group (−2.62, p = 0.001) and the hypertensive group (−2.49, p < 0.001). Peripheral vascular resistance was significantly elevated in the hypertensive + FGR group (7.43, p < 0.001) and the hypertensive group (6.06, p < 0.001). There was a positive correlation between maternal peripheral vascular resistance and uterine artery PI (R2 = 0.172; p = 0.0004), and a negative correlation between cardiac output and uterine artery PI (R2 = 0.067; p = 0.031). However, significant correlation between maternal cardiovascular parameters and umbilical artery PI was not identified. ConclusionsMaternal cardiac output exhibits a significant decrease whereas peripheral vascular resistance increases in hypertensive pregnancies, irrespective of the presence of FGR. Both uterine and umbilical artery PI notably increase when hypertensive pregnancies are accompanied by FGR. A positive correlation exists between maternal peripheral vascular resistance and uterine artery PI, as well as a negative correlation between maternal cardiac output and uterine artery PI. However, changes in maternal cardiovascular parameters do not exhibit significant correlations with umbilical artery PI.

Distribution of angle alpha and angle kappa offsets among adult candidates for cataract surgery.

The current study aimed to describe the distribution of angle alpha and angle kappa offsets as well as their associated ocular biometric parameters in a large population of candidates for cataract surgery. This cross-sectional retrospective study included 8,119 eyes of 4,781 candidates for cataract surgery (mean age 70.7 ± 12.9 years). There were 49.9% right eyes, and 53.0% patients were females. The angles offset and ocular biometric parameters were measured by the IOLMaster 700 (Carl Zeiss Meditec, AG, Germany). Patient's age and gender, and most of their ocular biometric measurements were similar for the right and left eyes except for pupil diameter (4.01 ± 1.18 vs. 3.92 ± 1.14 mm, respectively, P< 0.001). The angle alpha offset magnitude was similar for the right and left eyes (0.50 ± 0.20 and 0.51 ± 0.21 mm, P= 0.08), whereas the angle kappa offset magnitude was greater in the right eyes (0.37 ± 0.21 vs. 0.33 ± 0.20 mm, P< 0.001). The angle kappa offset magnitudes were greater in the right eyes compared to the left eyes for both males (0.36 ± 0.21 vs. 0.33 ± 0.21 mm, respectively, P< 0.001) and females (0.37 ± 0.20 vs. 0.34 ± 0.20 mm, respectively, P< 0.001). The offset magnitudes of both angles varied significantly according to gender, eye laterality, angle location, and biometric parameters (e.g., axial length). The offset magnitudes of both angles were positively correlated in both right and left eyes. The offset magnitudes of both the angle alpha and angle kappa present significant variations according to gender, eye laterality, angle location, and biometric parameters, such as AL. These values are also population-specific.

Impact and Correction of an Anterior Phakic Intraocular Lens on Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography Biometry.

To evaluate the impact of anterior chamber phakic intraocular lens (pIOL) on swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) biometric measurements and IOL power calculation. This retrospective analysis of 67 eyes of 49 patients with previous anterior chamber pIOL implantation analyzed the accuracy of automatic segmentation of the anterior surface of the crystalline lens and its impact on anterior chamber depth (ACD, measured from epithelium to lens), lens thickness measurements, and IOL power calculation. The sample was divided into two groups: correct detection of the anterior surface of the crystalline lens and inaccurate detection. Segmentation of eyes from the inaccurate detection group was manually corrected and ACD and lens thickness were calculated using ImageJ software. IOL power was calculated using 7 formulas for both measurements. The anterior surface of the crystalline lens was mis-identified in 13 (19.4%) eyes. ACD was underestimated (Δ -0.85 ± 0.33 mm, P < .001) and lens thickness was overestimated (Δ +0.81 ± 0.25 mm, P < .001). Manual correction changed the target spherical equivalent only in the Haigis formula (P = .009). After correction for segmentation bias, the Pearl DGS, Cooke K6, and EVO 2.0 formulas showed the lowest prediction error, with the Pearl DGS showing greatest accuracy within ±1.00 diopters of prediction error range (81.0%). SS-OCT biometry misidentifies the anterior surface of the crystalline lens in a significant proportion, resulting in significant IOL power calculation error in the Haigis formula. Manual proofing of segmentation is mandatory in every patient with anterior chamber pIOL implantation. After correct segmentation, the Pearl DGS, Cooke K6, and EVO seem to be the best formulas. [J Refract Surg. 2024;40(8):e562-e568.].

The effect of cycloplegia in the accuracy of autorefraction, keratometry and axial length using the Myopia Master

BackgroundAssessing refractive errors under cycloplegia is recommended for paediatric patients; however, this may not always be feasible. In these situations, refraction has to rely on measurements made under active accommodation which may increase measurements variability and error. Therefore, evaluating the accuracy and precision of non-cycloplegic refraction and biometric measurements is clinically relevant. The Myopia Master, a novel instrument combining autorefraction and biometry, is designed for monitoring refractive error and ocular biometry in myopia management. This study assessed its repeatability and agreement for autorefraction and biometric measurements pre- and post-cycloplegia.MethodsA prospective cross-sectional study evaluated a cohort of 96 paediatric patients that underwent ophthalmologic examination. An optometrist performed two repeated measurements of autorefraction and biometry pre- and post-cycloplegia. Test-retest repeatability (TRT) was assessed as differences between consecutive measurements and agreement as differences between post- and pre-cycloplegia measurements, for spherical equivalent (SE), refractive and keratometric J0/J45 astigmatic components, mean keratometry (Km) and axial length (AL).ResultsCycloplegia significantly improved the SE repeatability (TRT, pre-cyclo: 0.65 D, post-cyclo: 0.31 D). SE measurements were more repeatable in myopes and emmetropes compared to hyperopes. Keratometry (Km) repeatability did not change with cycloplegia (TRT, pre-cyclo: 0.25 D, post-cyclo:0.27 D) and AL repeatability improved marginally (TRT, pre-cyclo: 0.14 mm, post-cyclo: 0.09 mm). Regarding pre- and post-cycloplegia agreement, SE became more positive by + 0.79 D, varying with refractive error. Myopic eyes showed a mean difference of + 0.31 D, while hyperopes differed by + 1.57 D. Mean keratometry, refractive and keratometric J0/J45 and AL showed no clinically significant differences.ConclusionsRefractive error measurements, using the Myopia Master were 2.5x less precise pre-cycloplegia than post-cycloplegia. Accuracy of pre-cycloplegic refractive error measurements was often larger than the clinically significant threshold (0.25 D) and was refractive error dependent. The higher precision compared to autorefraction measurements, pre- and post-cycloplegia agreement and refractive error independence of AL measurements emphasize the superiority of AL in refractive error monitoring.