Visual Examination Research Articles

TECHNOLOGY OF STRUCTURAL REPAIR OF CONCRETE AND REINFORCED CONCRETE STRUCTURES OF WATERWORKS

The assessment of the current state of the water and land reclamation engineering infrastructure facilities, which was carried out on the basis of the analysis of technical documentation, visual, and instrumental examination of the structures' technical condition, confirms that as a result of long-term operation of the waterworks without proper reparation and restoration measures, their technical condition has significantly deteriorated. The most promising for the repair of concrete and reinforced concrete structures are cement-based materials modified with polymers (polymer concrete), which are dry mixtures of cement, sand, re-dispersible polymer powder (RPP) and other modifying additives. The research results of the redispersing polymer powders influence on the adhesive properties of repair composites are presented. It is shown that the modification of cement-sand solutions of RPP leads to a significant increase in the adhesive properties of repair composites. The optimally effective concentration of RPP in repair compositions has been found. The article highlights the technology of structural repair of concrete and reinforced concrete structures of the waterworks with the use of modern composite materials, which makes it possible to restore the design geometric indicators and the load-bearing capacity of the structures. The proposed technology and effective repair compositions help to carry out repair and restoration work on hydrotechnical structures of the water management and reclamation complex, in particular those destroyed or damaged as a result of the military aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine. The main principles of choosing the optimal technology for the structural repair of concrete and reinforced concrete structures of the waterworks, depending on the nature and degree of damage, the influence of technological and operational conditions on the structures' geometric indicators restoration during the modernization and reconstruction of reclamation systems in the post-war period, are revealed.

Radiomics and visual analysis for predicting success of transplantation of heterotopic glioblastoma in mice with MRI

BackgroundQuantifying tumor growth and treatment response noninvasively poses a challenge to all experimental tumor models. The aim of our study was, to assess the value of quantitative and visual examination and radiomic feature analysis of high-resolution MR images of heterotopic glioblastoma xenografts in mice to determine tumor cell proliferation (TCP).MethodsHuman glioblastoma cells were injected subcutaneously into both flanks of immunodeficient mice and followed up on a 3 T MR scanner. Volumes and signal intensities were calculated. Visual assessment of the internal tumor structure was based on a scoring system. Radiomic feature analysis was performed using MaZda software. The results were correlated with histopathology and immunochemistry.Results21 tumors in 14 animals were analyzed. The volumes of xenografts with high TCP (H-TCP) increased, whereas those with low TCP (L-TCP) or no TCP (N-TCP) continued to decrease over time (p < 0.05). A low intensity rim (rim sign) on unenhanced T1-weighted images provided the highest diagnostic accuracy at visual analysis for assessing H-TCP (p < 0.05). Applying radiomic feature analysis, wavelet transform parameters were best for distinguishing between H-TCP and L-TCP / N-TCP (p < 0.05).ConclusionVisual and radiomic feature analysis of the internal structure of heterotopically implanted glioblastomas provide reproducible and quantifiable results to predict the success of transplantation.

Utilizing a Pathomics Biomarker to Predict the Effectiveness of Bevacizumab in Ovarian Cancer Treatment.

The purpose of this investigation is to develop and initially assess a quantitative image analysis scheme that utilizes histopathological images to predict the treatment effectiveness of bevacizumab therapy in ovarian cancer patients. As a widely accessible diagnostic tool, histopathological slides contain copious information regarding underlying tumor progression that is associated with tumor prognosis. However, this information cannot be readily identified by conventional visual examination. This study utilizes novel pathomics technology to quantify this meaningful information for treatment effectiveness prediction. Accordingly, a total of 9828 features were extracted from segmented tumor tissue, cell nuclei, and cell cytoplasm, which were categorized into geometric, intensity, texture, and subcellular structure features. Next, the best performing features were selected as the input for SVM (support vector machine)-based prediction models. These models were evaluated on an open dataset containing a total of 78 patients and 288 whole slides images. The results indicated that the sufficiently optimized, best-performing model yielded an area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.8312. When examining the best model's confusion matrix, 37 and 25 cases were correctly predicted as responders and non-responders, respectively, achieving an overall accuracy of 0.7848. This investigation initially validated the feasibility of utilizing pathomics techniques to predict tumor responses to chemotherapy at an early stage.

Date estimation of fabrication and repair of Color garments encouragement banner

The Color Garments Encouragement Banner was designated a Korean Heritage in 2014 to recognize it as the most significant object of the color garments encouragement campaign. However, despite its significance, nothing is known about its manufacture. Therefore, this study attempted to analyze the materials of the banners to estimate when they were manufactured and repaired. The investigation of materials on the banner involved visual examination, literature review, microscopy, SEM–EDS, FT-IR, Py-GC–MS, ICP-MS, and LC–MS. The fabric, patch, and threads comprising the artifact were identified as cotton. FT-IR and Py-GC–MS confirmed that the repair patch was a woven blend of polyester and cotton yarns. EDS analysis indicated that the polyester was treated with titanium delustering. ICP-MS detected high concentrations of chromium that were not used in traditional dyeing techniques. The azo and sulfur compounds were identified by LC–MS analysis. The material layered on the grommet patch was thought to be a mixture of Pb, Ti with CaCO3 and BaSO4. Based on the overall results, the production date of the banner was narrowed down to the late 1920s, and the repair date to the mid-1950s. Although the materials used could not be identified owing to the limitations of the applicable analysis. Nonetheless, it is hoped that the analyses conducted in this study can serve as a scientific foundation for dating modern cultural heritage objects with limited handed-down record and historical documentation.

A bibliometric and systematic review of scientific publications on metaverse research in architecture: web of science (WoS)

AbstractThe global trends related to the concept of Metaverse in architecture have significantly expanded in recent years, thanks to the increasing number of scientific publications. Systematically examining the literature on this topic and identifying research trends and potential directions provides comprehensive data maps, thus charting a roadmap for researchers interested in working in this field. In this context, the research aims to identify the trends and tendencies of the concept of the Metaverse in the scientific literature over time at the primary analysis levels, such as countries, institutions, resources, articles, authors, and research topics. The research conducted with this aim involves a dynamic, visual, and systematic examination of the academic literature on academic publishing using data accessed without year limitations from the Web of Science Core Collection-Citation database. In the research conducted without year limitations, a sample comprising 334 articles published/planned to be published between 2005 and 2024 is analyzed. The bibliometrix R-Tool was used to enhance the analysis, and metadata was obtained from the WoS database. This analysis analyzed publications, citations, and information sources, including the most published journals, the most used keywords, the most cited and leading articles, the most cited academics, and the most contributing institutions and countries. In conclusion, this study aims to define the profile of international academic publishing in the field of the Metaverse, present its development, identify research fronts, detect emerging trends, and uncover the working themes and trends in the Metaverse specific to architecture. This study describes the profile of international academic publishing on the metaverse, presents its development, identifies research frontiers, identifies emerging trends, and reveals metaverse study themes and trends in architecture. As a result, education, virtual perception of space, building operation and maintenance, building evacuation, BIM (Building Information Modeling), cultural heritage, physical environment, built environment/planning, smart home, design and creativity, universal design/accessibility, sustainability, smart city/GIS, urban transportation systems, and in-use evaluation are identified as themes that have been studied in relation to the metaverse concept in architecture and design disciplines.

Racial and Socioeconomic Differences Correlate with Healthcare Disparities in Patients with Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy (DR), an ocular complication of diabetes mellitus, is the leading cause of permanent blindness in the United States for young adults. Due to biological and environmental factors, diabetes mellitus is well known to disproportionally affect people of color and those of lower socioeconomic status; however, the racial and socioeconomic disparities of DR are less researched. The purpose of this research is to elucidate any differences in DR presentation that arise across racial and socioeconomic lines and to determine if diabetic control can be a predicting factor for DR severity. For this study, a retrospective patient chart analysis was performed on 511 consecutive newly referred patients with diabetes at New England Retina Associates, a vitreo-retinal ophthalmology practice with four locations throughout Connecticut. Our analysis shows that, when compared to their White and Asian counterparts, Black/African American and Hispanic patients present with DR at younger ages, had the higher HbA1c, were uninsured at higher rates, and presented with severe forms of DR in higher rates when compared to their counterparts. Many of these patterns are mirrored in patients that are uninsured or on Medicaid, indicators of lower socioeconomic status. Additionally, regardless of race or socioeconomic status, patients with higher HbA1c tended to present with more severe forms of DR. These findings indicate that DR disproportionately affects racial minority populations and those in socioeconomically disadvantageous positions, but effective glycemic control and routine eye exam screening can improve the outcomes of these patients. It is important for medical providers to recognize the disparities in these vulnerable populations in order to facilitate the timely referrals and the proper care for their long-term ocular health.

Longitudinal associations of retinal vessel morphology with intraocular pressure and blood pressure at follow-up visit-Findings from a Danish eye and vision cohort, Project FOREVER.

To characterise the retinal vasculometry of a Danish eye and vision cohort and examine associations with systolic blood pressure (BP), diastolic BP, mean arterial BP, and intraocular pressure (IOP). Longitudinal study. The retinal vasculature of fundus images from the FOREVER (Finding Ophthalmic Risks and Evaluating the Value of Eye exams and their predictive Reliability) cohort was analysed using a fully automated image analysis program. Longitudinal associations of retinal vessel morphology at follow-up visit with IOP (baseline and follow-up) and BP (follow-up) were examined using multilevel linear regression models adjusting for age, sex and retinal vasculometry at baseline as fixed effects and person as random effect. Width measurements were additionally adjusted for the spherical equivalent. A total of 2089 subjects (62% female) with a mean age of 61 (standard deviation 8) years and a mean follow-up period of 4.1 years (SD 0.6 years) were included. The mean arteriolar diameter was approximately 20% thinner than the mean venular diameter, and venules were about 21%-23% less tortuous than arterioles. BP at follow-up was associated with decreased arteriolar diameter from baseline to follow-up. After adjusting for baseline IOP, IOP at follow-up was associated with increased arteriolar tortuosity above baseline (0.59%, 95% CI 0.08-1.10, p-value 0.024). In a Danish eye and vision cohort, variations in BP and alterations in IOP over time were associated with changes in the width and tortuosity of retinal vessels. Our findings contribute novel insights into retinal vascular alterations over time.

1 Million Segmented Red Blood Cells With 240 K Classified in 9 Shapes and 47 K Patches of 25 Manual Blood Smears

Around 20% of complete blood count samples necessitate visual review using light microscopes or digital pathology scanners. There is currently no technological alternative to the visual examination of red blood cells (RBCs) morphology/shapes. True/non-artifact teardrop-shaped RBCs and schistocytes/fragmented RBCs are commonly associated with serious medical conditions that could be fatal, increased ovalocytes are associated with almost all types of anemias. 25 distinct blood smears, each from a different patient, were manually prepared, stained, and then sorted into four groups. Each group underwent imaging using different cameras integrated into light microscopes with 40X microscopic lenses resulting in total 47 K + field images/patches. Two hematologists processed cell-by-cell to provide one million + segmented RBCs with their XYWH coordinates and classified 240 K + RBCs into nine shapes. This dataset (Elsafty_RBCs_for_AI) enables the development/testing of deep learning-based (DL) automation of RBCs morphology/shapes examination, including specific normalization of blood smear stains (different from histopathology stains), detection/counting, segmentation, and classification. Two codes are provided (Elsafty_Codes_for_AI), one for semi-automated image processing and another for training/testing of a DL-based image classifier.

Metabolomic profiling and accurate diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma by MALDI imaging and machine learning.

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), the most common keratinocyte cancer, presents a substantial public health challenge due to its high prevalence. Traditional diagnostic methods, which rely on visual examination and histopathological analysis, do not include metabolomic data. This exploratory study aims to molecularly characterize BCC and diagnose tumour tissue by applying matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) and machine learning (ML). BCC tumour development was induced in a mouse model and tissue sections containing BCC (n = 12) were analysed. The study design involved three phases: (i) Model training, (ii) Model validation and (iii) Metabolomic analysis. The ML algorithm was trained on MS data extracted and labelled in accordance with histopathology. An overall classification accuracy of 99.0% was reached for the labelled data. Classification of unlabelled tissue areas aligned with the evaluation of a certified Mohs surgeon for 99.9% of the total tissue area, underscoring the model's high sensitivity and specificity in identifying BCC. Tentative metabolite identifications were assigned to 189 signals of importance for the recognition of BCC, each indicating a potential tumour marker of diagnostic value. These findings demonstrate the potential for MALDI-MSI coupled with ML to characterize the metabolomic profile of BCC and to diagnose tumour tissue with high sensitivity and specificity. Further studies are needed to explore the potential of implementing integrated MS and automated analyses in the clinical setting.

Vowel nasalization does not cue ambisyllabicity in American English nasals: Evidence from nasometrya).

Using visual spectrographic examination of vowel nasalization to diagnose the syllabic affiliation of phonologically ambisyllabic nasal consonants (e.g., gamma), Durvasula and Huang [(2017). Lang. Sci. 62, 17-36] argued that anticipatory vowel nasalization in these words patterns with word-medial codas. Using nasometry, the current study finds that anticipatory nasalization before monomorphemic and multimorphemic (scammer) ambisyllabic nasals differ from word-medial coda (gamble) and word-final nasals (scam), but not from other intervocalic nasals. Additionally, vowel nasalization is sensitive to the manner of the preceding phoneme. These findings demonstrate that quantifying anticipatory nasalization using nasometry differs from visual spectrographic criteria.

A case report of primary complex anal fistula with six external openings (Shataponaka bhagandara) treated with interception of fistulous tract with application of Ksharasutra technique

Complex anal fistulae, particularly those with six external openings, are rare, with limited documented cases in medical literature, highlighting the clinical novelty of such presentations. Managing these complex fistulae possesses a significant challenge, often requiring intricate surgical procedures that carry a heightened risk of postoperative damage and recurrence, with traditional approaches potentially compromising patients’ quality of life due to the risk of anal incontinence. In this report, a unique case of a 65-year-old male admitted with recurrent perianal boils and on-and-off pain fortwo years is presented. Visual and digital rectal examinations revealed a complex fistula-in-ano with six external openings, emphasizing the rarity of such cases. Conventional treatments were deemed suboptimal for this complex presentation. The patient underwent the Interception of the Fistulous Tract with Application of Ksharasutra (IFTAK) procedure, involving the interception of the fistulous tract and the application of Ksharasutra. Postoperative care included sitz bath, topical application of Jatyadi taila, and oral administration of Triphala guggulu. The patient’s recovery was marked by a gradual reduction in discharge, drying of external openings, and complete healing within eight weeks, with no recurrence observed at the six month follow-up. The IFTAK procedure proves to be a promising and effective intervention for managing rare cases of complex anal fistulae with multiple external openings, showcasing its potential in achieving satisfactory outcomes and rapid wound healing.

Diabetic Retinopathy and Vision Loss: A Public Health Concern

Diabetic Retinopathy (DR), a known complication of diabetes, is one of the top three leading causes of blindness in the U.S. Minorities are disproportionately affected and, most often, diagnosed at advanced stages. This review consolidates current epidemiological data, pathophysiological insights, clinical classifications, and treatment approaches for DR. Despite advancements in therapies like anti-VEGF drugs and laser treatments, significant disparities persist, particularly affecting racial minorities and those with lower socioeconomic status. Early detection via regular eye exams and improved healthcare access are crucial in mitigating DR's increasing global impact. Public health strategies must address these disparities and ensure inclusivity in clinical research to improve DR management and outcomes. Continued awareness of primary and secondary forms of prevention is crucial in all populations with DR, especially minorities, because progression to severe stages can be recognized, treated, and ameliorated. Although anti-vascular endothelial growth factors have advanced, further research is needed to aid understanding of DR in populations disproportionately affected by severe diseases.

Public Awareness, Knowledge of Presbyopia and Compliance to Eye Examination in Jordan.

To assess public awareness and knowledge about presbyopia and their compliance to ocular examination in Jordan. A cross-sectional survey was designed to interview people in different provinces of Jordan. Socio-demographic data such as age, gender and level of education and region was reported. The first part of the questionnaire assessed awareness of presbyopia in terms of the need for spectacles with age, age of onset, possible causes of presbyopia and methods of presbyopia management. The second part of the questionnaire evaluated compliance of the participants with ocular examination in terms of frequency and motive to do general eye check, intraocular pressure (IOP), fundus exam and visual acuity. A total of 802 participants (232 males, 570 females) with an average age of 28 (±11.6) completed the questionnaire. Most participants (84.2%) knew that glasses are needed for near vision as age increases, and 62.8% estimated the age at which spectacles are required (40 years or older). Over half understood that presbyopia is correctable and progressive. Age significantly influenced knowledge about the need for near vision spectacles, and whether presbyopia is preventable and progressive (both p < 0.05). Females were more knowledgeable about these aspects. The frequency of eye examinations, particularly fundus exams and IOP tests, was significantly influenced by age but not by education. Gender only significantly affected the frequency of vision checks (p = 0.01), with females being more likely to adhere to them. This study demonstrated a good level of awareness and knowledge about presbyopia among Jordanians, especially those over 40 and females. Regular eye check-ups were more common among young participants and females. Addressing misconceptions about presbyopia's preventability and promoting regular eye exams are crucial for early diagnosis and management of presbyopia and other serious eye conditions.

Classification of Ice Particle Shapes Using Machine Learning on Forward Light Scattering Images

Abstract Machine learning (ML) has rapidly transitioned from a niche activity to a mainstream tool for environmental research applications including atmospheric science cloud microphysics studies. Two recently developed cloud particle probes measure the light scattered in the near forward direction and save digital images of the scattering light. Scattering pattern images collected by the Particle Phase Discriminator mark 2, Karlsruhe edition (PPD-2K), and the Small Ice Detector, version 3 (SID-3) provide valuable information for particle shape and size characterization. Since different particle shapes have distinctly different light scattering characteristics, the images are ideally suited for ML. Here, results of a ML project to characterize ice particle shapes sampled by the PPD-2K in ice fog and diamond dust during a 3-yr project in Fairbanks, Alaska. About 2.15 million light-scattering pattern images were collected during 3 years of measurements with the PPD-2K. Visual Geometry Group (VGG) convolutional neural network (CNN) was trained to categorize light-scattering patterns into eight categories. Initial training images (120 each category) were selected by human visual examination of data, and the training dataset was augmented using an automated iterative method for image identification of further images which were all visually inspected by a human. Results were well correlated to similar categories identified from previously developed classification algorithms. ML identifies characteristics not included in automated analysis such as sublimation. Of the 2.15 million images analyzed, 1.3% were categorized as spherical (liquid), 43.5% were categorized as having rough surfaces, 15.3% were pristine, 16.3% were categorized as sublimating, and the remaining 23.6% did not fit into any of those categories (irregular or saturated). Significance Statement The shapes and sizes of cloud particles can be extremely important for understanding the conditions that exist in the cloud. In this study, we show that more information about cloud particle characteristics can be identified by using machine learning than by traditional means. To demonstrate this, data are analyzed from a 3-yr study of ice fog and diamond dust events in Fairbanks, Alaska. The Particle Phase Discriminator instrument collected 2.15 million light-scattering pattern images of cloud particles during ground-based measurements. Neither traditional techniques nor machine learning were able to identify all categories, but a combination of both techniques led to a more complete view of ice particle shapes.

Socket Preservation Using Platelet-Rich Fibrin and Free Gingival Grafts

The present randomised controlled trial is based on the null hypothesis that there is no difference in crestal bone levels (CBLs) following socket preservation (SP) using platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and free gingival graft (FGG). The aim was to evaluate CBLs following SP using PRF and FGG. This study is a parallel-arm randomised controlled trial. Patients in the test and control groups underwent SP using PRF and FGG, respectively. Intraoral visual examination was performed to clinically assess signs of swelling, pus/abscess, and stability of sutures and graft. Self-rated postoperative pain was assessed after 1 week and 6 months using the visual analogue scale (VAS). At the 6-month follow-up, cone-beam computed tomography was performed to evaluate CBL in mesiodistal and buccolingual dimensions. The preoperative cone-beam computed tomographic images were superimposed with those taken at the 6-month follow-up to compare CBLs. Statistical comparisons were performed and level of significance was set at P < .05. The test and control groups each comprised 13 individuals with comparable ages. All teeth included in the test and control groups were located in the maxillary aesthetic zone. At the 1-week follow-up, VAS scores were higher in the control than in the test group (P < .01). At the 6-month follow-up, none of the participants reported self-rated pain. The change in buccolingual dimension was greater in the control group than in the test group (P < .05). Both FGG and PRF are effective techniques for SP; however, the latter technique is more effcacious in maintaining buccolingual dimensions of the extraction socket.

Instrumental and Visual Evaluation of the Chameleon Effect of Single-shaded Composite Resins.

To evaluate the shade-matching ability of single-shade resin-based composite restorations in different thicknesses using both instrumental and visual techniques. Cavities with 4 mm diameter and 2 mm (n=96) or 3 mm (n=96) depth were prepared in acrylic incisor teeth of shades A2, A3, B3, and C2 and restored with three single-shade resin composites, Omnichroma (Tokuyama Dental America, Encinitas, CA, USA [OM]), Vittra APS Unique (FGM Dental Group, Joinville, SC, Brazil [VU]), Zenchroma (President Dental, Allershausen, Germany [ZC]), and a microhybrid resin composite (Filtek 3M Z250 3M ESPE, St Paul, MN, USA [FZ]) of A2, A3, B3, and C2 shades. Readings were obtained using VITA Easyshade V spectrophotometer for the teeth and restorations. The CIEDE2000 (ΔE00) color difference formula was used, and the values were assessed using three-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Forty-eight evaluators graded the shade match of 32 different specimens visually as (A) best shade match, (B) intermediate shade match, and (C) poor shade match. FZ material achieved satisfactory matches for both thicknesses, across all shades, and OM material demonstrated statistically significant lower shade matches than the ZC and the FZ materials (p<0.05). VU exhibited poor shade match with the highest ΔE00 value on C2 shade. According to the visual examination, the best shade matches were observed for FZ on A3-shade and ZC on C2-shade teeth. Shade matching for 2 mm and 3 mm-thick composite resin restorations is material- and tooth-shade dependent.

Sonographic signs of abdominal neoplasms in feline uveitis

Feline uveitis is a common inflammatory disease of the vascular membrane of the eye. Damage to the uveal tract can be caused by a variety of causes, including systemic diseases, autoimmune processes, viral and bacterial infections, parasitic diseases, and oncological pathologies. Differential diagnosis of etiological factors is difficult and requires a comprehensive examination of the animal: careful collection of anamneses in order to exclude a traumatic factor, laboratory tests, serological tests to detect viral infections and parasitic infestations, visual diagnostic examination to diagnose systemic diseases and search for the oncological process. The research was conducted in 2023-2024 on the basis of the Department of Diseases of small domestic, laboratory and exotic animals, as well as the laboratory of "Oncology, Ophthalmology and Biochemistry of Animals" of the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution "ROSBIOTECH". The aim of the study was to substantiate the use of sonographic and morphological research methods in the differential diagnosis of the etiology of feline uveitis. During the study, in 20.8% of cases (15 cats), sonographic examination of the abdominal cavity allowed to determine the cause of uveitis. We found: thickening of the muscular layer of the intestinal wall with partial or complete loss of layer differentiation, a local increase in the echogenicity of the surrounding adipose tissue, signs of mechanical obstruction of the proximally affected area, diffuse changes in mesenteric lymph nodes, diffuse focal changes in the liver and spleen, a volumetric neoplasm in the abdominal cavity located caudal to the right kidney, moderate nephromegaly and diffuse changes with violation of the differentiation of the cortical and cerebral layers. According to the results of morphological examination of the biopsy material, the diagnosis of large cell lymphoma was established in all cases. Uveitis in this group of cats is attributed to ophthalmopathy associated with paraneoplastic syndrome.

Potential of hybrid lecithin-chitosan kaempferol ethosomes for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcer: In vitro and In vivo investigation

Hybrid lecithin-chitosan (LC) ethosomes were developed for maximizing encapsulation efficiency and release of Kaempferol (KMP) in controlled effect for topical delivery. The hybrid lecithin–chitosan offers the benefits of both components: enhanced lipophilicity and mucoadhesive, respectively. In this work, hybrid lecithin-chitosan KMP ethosomes (Eth) were prepared via a cold technique and assesses its physicochemical properties, in vitro and in vivo studies. The synthesized LC-Eth-vesicles of KMP reported vesicle size of 186.8 nm with polydispersity index of 0.285 and 31.9 mV of zeta-potential. The encapsulation efficiency was 96.2 %. In vitro drug release profile has shown prolonged release of KMP in a controlled manner over a period of 24 h. Around 80.3 % KMP was released from LC-KMP-Eth gel while only 46.9 % of KMP was released from the plain KMP-gel in 24 h. The release kinetic investigation the release of KMP followed the “Korsmeyer-Peppas model” with Fickian-diffusion mechanism. The LC-KMP-Eth has shown increased antimicrobial activity as compared plain KMP gel against multiple strains of MRSA. The histopathological analysis of skin samples revealed an increased re-epithelization with reduced wound ulcer which was also observed by the visual examination of the skin conditions. The in vivo results on Wistar albino rat models demonstrated superior wound closure efficacy of LC-KMP-Eth gel as compared to plain KMP gel. Around 2-fold overall increased pharmacokinetic parameters of KMP from LC-KMP-Eth gel after topical application, displayed a higher concentration of KMP in rat plasma, reveling a potent effect at the wound site and the gel also provide the moist environment and influencing cell adhesion, thus stimulating restorative action in diabetic foot ulcers.

Assessing the efficacy of electrolyzed water for sanitizing contaminated stainless-steel surfaces in the meat industry

Electrolyzed water (EW) presents promising potential as an alternative sanitation solution, offering cost savings and eliminating the need for harsh chemicals in food factories. This study investigates EW's efficacy in cleaning contaminated stainless-steel plates. Some plates were covered with meat residues, and the upper side of the plate's surfaces were inoculated with Escherichia coli ATCC 10536. Plates were then immersed in sterile distilled water (SDW) (pH: 7 ± 1), acidic electrolyzed water (AcEW) (free chlorine: 4.21 ± 0.05 mg/L, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP): 1168 ± 3.54 mV, pH: 2.74 ± 0.03), or alkaline electrolyzed water (AlEW) (ORP: 817 ± 8.49 mV, pH: 11.38 ± 0.01), at different temperatures (30 or 50 °C) for 30 s. The cleanliness of plates was confirmed microbiologically when no E. coli was detected, (below 1.0 log CFU/cm2). Treatment with SDW resulted in a modest reduction of the E. coli by 1.67 ± 0.84 log CFU/cm2 (±70% of the survived population). At 30 °C, E. coli was undetectable when AlEW was used without meat residue. At 50 °C, E. coli was undetectable when either AcEW or AlEW was used without meat residue. Visual and tactile inspections were conducted to validate cleanliness. The visual examination was performed after cleaning the plates with EW to ensure they appeared clean. However, tactile inspection indicated the presence of residues. Subsequent microbial analysis revealed 1.50 ± 0.87 log CFU/100 cm2 (±36% of the surviving population) of E. coli. This study demonstrated that meat residues on food-contact surfaces create a barrier to sanitation, necessitating mechanical action and heat for improved cleanliness.

Comparative Analysis of Diabetic Retinopathy Using Deep Learning Concepts

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes. It is a progressive disease that occurs in stages, each of which is characterized by specific changes in the retina. It is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina, which is the light-sensitive part of the eye that sends visual signals to the brain. People with diabetes, especially those with poorly controlled blood sugar levels, are at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. Over time, high blood sugar levels can cause the blood vessels in the retina to become damaged or blocked. This can lead to swelling, bleeding, and the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina, which can cause vision loss or even blindness. Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy may include blurry vision, floaters (spots in the field of vision), and difficulty seeing at night. However, many people with diabetic retinopathy may not have any symptoms at all in the early stages of the condition. Treatment for diabetic retinopathy may involve controlling blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, as well as laser treatment, injections, or surgery in more advanced cases. Regular eye exams are also recommended for people with diabetes to detect any early signs of diabetic retinopathy and prevent vision loss. Keywords: Diabetic Retinopathy; Deep Learning; Image processing; Convolution neural network