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Rationale and Objectives The purpose of this study is to improve accuracy of near-term breast cancer risk prediction by applying a new mammographic image conversion method combined with a two-stage artificial neural network (ANN)-based classification scheme. Materials and Methods The dataset included 168 negative mammography screening cases. In developing and testing our new risk model, we first converted the original grayscale value (GV)-based mammographic images into optical density (OD)-based images. For each case, our computer-aided scheme then computed two types of image features representing bilateral asymmetry and the maximum of the image features computed from GV and OD images, respectively. A two-stage classification scheme consisting of three ANNs was developed. The first stage included two ANNs trained using features computed separately from GV and OD images of 138 cases. The second stage included another ANN to fuse the prediction scores produced by two ANNs in the first stage. The risk prediction performance was tested using the rest 30 cases. Results With the two-stage classification scheme, the computed area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was 0.816 ± 0.071, which was significantly higher than the AUC values of 0.669 ± 0.099 and 0.646 ± 0.099 achieved using two ANNs trained using GV features and OD features, respectively ( P Conclusion This study demonstrated that applying an OD image conversion method can acquire new complimentary information to those acquired from the original images. As a result, fusion image features computed from these two types of images yielded significantly higher performance in near-term breast cancer risk prediction.

Lutein and zeaxanthin (L/Z), xanthophylls obtained from the diet, are deposited in the macula of the eye. The macular concentration of L/Z is quantifiable as macular pigment optical density (MPOD). The aim of this review was to critically appraise the effect on MPOD of increasing L/Z intake by dietary intervention in adults. Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Cinahl were searched up to April 2020. Ten studies investigating populations with and without age-related macular degeneration were included. MPOD increased significantly in 2 of the 8 controlled studies. Studies varied largely in the prescribed dietary L/Z dosage, duration, and participant characteristics. No relationships between types of dietary L/Z interventions and MPOD response could be determined. Limited monitoring of habitual dietary L/Z intake was identified as a major limitation of all 10 studies. Habitual dietary L/Z intake should be closely monitored in future studies to account for their effects on MPOD response to dietary L/Z interventions.

Background HIV-1 incidence calculation currently includes recency classification by HIV-1 incidence assay and unsuppressed viral load (VL ≥ 1000 copies/mL) in a recent infection testing algorithm (RITA). However, persons with recent classification not virally suppressed and taking antiretroviral (ARV) medication may be misclassified. Setting We used data from 13 African household surveys to describe the impact of an ARV-adjusted RITA on HIV-1 incidence estimates. Methods HIV-seropositive samples were tested for recency using the HIV-1 Limiting Antigen (LAg)-Avidity enzyme immunoassay, HIV-1 viral load, ARVs used in each country, and ARV drug resistance. LAg-recent result was defined as normalized optical density values ≤1.5. We compared HIV-1 incidence estimates using 2 RITA: RITA1: LAg-recent + VL ≥ 1000 copies/mL and RITA2: RITA1 + undetectable ARV. We explored RITA2 with self-reported ARV use and with clinical history. Results Overall, 357 adult HIV-positive participants were classified as having recent infection with RITA1. RITA2 reclassified 55 (15.4%) persons with detectable ARV as having long-term infection. Those with detectable ARV were significantly more likely to be aware of their HIV-positive status (84% vs. 10%) and had higher levels of drug resistance (74% vs. 26%) than those without detectable ARV. RITA2 incidence was lower than RITA1 incidence (range, 0%-30% decrease), resulting in decreased estimated new infections from 390,000 to 341,000 across the 13 countries. Incidence estimates were similar using detectable or self-reported ARV (R2 > 0.995). Conclusions Including ARV in RITA2 improved the accuracy of HIV-1 incidence estimates by removing participants with likely long-term HIV infection.

Immunohistochemical analysis of somatostatin receptor 2 (SSTR2) provides important information regarding the potential therapeutic efficacy of somatostatin analogues (SSAs) in patients with neuroendocrine tumors. HER2 scoring has been proposed to interpret SSTR2 immunoreactivity but their reproducibility was relatively low because of its intrinsic subjective nature. Digital image analysis (DIA) has recently been proposed as an objective and more precise method of evaluating immunoreactivity. Therefore, in this study, we used DIA for analyzing SSTR2 immunoreactivity in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) to obtain its H score and "(%) strong positive cells" and compared the results with those of manually obtained HER2 scores. Membranous SSTR2 immunoreactivity evaluated by DIA was calculated by two scales as: "Membrane Optical Density" and "Minimum Membrane Completeness". PanNETs with HER2 score of > 2 demonstrated the highest concordance with results of "(%) strong positive cells" obtained by DIA when "Minimum Membrane Completeness" was tentatively set at 80%. The SSTR2 immunoreactivity, evaluated based on all scoring systems, was different between grades G1 and G2 in insulinoma but not in non-functional PanNETs. DIA provided reproducible results of SSTR2 immunoreactivity in PanNETs and yielded important information as to the potential application of SSAs.

The study involved an analysis of optical density of the maxillary and mandibular bone tissue based on cone-beam computed tomography data. It has been shown that the structure and bone tissue density depend on the severity of diabetes mellitus and complications. The results of the study revealed a significant decrease in the bone tissue optical density at the tooth necks in people suffering from diabetes mellitus, whereas fewer changes were manifested at the middle third of the dental roots. Minor changes or even an increase in the optical density were observed at the dental root tips.

Lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin are the only carotenoids found in the human macula and may have a role in visual function. These carotenoids are reported to protect the retina, and thus vision, as antioxidants and by acting as a blue light filter. Our objective was to determine a minimum concentration of lutein/zeaxanthin intake that is associated with a statistically significant and/or clinically important change in macular pigment optical density (MPOD) among adults with healthy eyes. We searched Ovid MEDLINE, CENTRAL, and the Commonwealth of Agriculture Bureau for English-language studies through to July 2020. Two reviewers screened results to identify studies that evaluated supplements or dietary sources of lutein/zeaxanthin on MPOD among adults with healthy eyes. One reviewer extracted data and assessed strength of evidence, which was confirmed by a second reviewer. Two independent reviewers assessed the risk of bias. Meta-analyses were stratified by total lutein/zeaxanthin dose. We included 46 studies (N = 3189 participants; mean age = 43 y; 42% male). There was no statistically significant change in MPOD among studies evaluating, Statement of Significance: We conducted a systematic review to determine the quantities of lutein/zeaxanthin intake from either dietary or supplemental sources that are associated with macular pigment optical density (MPOD) among adults with healthy eyes. We concluded that >10 mg/d of lutein/zeaxanthin can increase MPOD, but the effects at doses

This paper presents the research on the quality of prints obtained with the Xerox DocuColor® 252 and Xerox® Color 1000 graphics systems. The values for optical density, spectral curve as well as CIELab values were measured for samples printed on substrates of different surface masses (150 g/m², 200 g/m², 300 g/m²). A detailed analysis of the measured and calculated values led to the conclusion that the difference in color and thus quality is obvious.

Panretinal photocoagulation, an important treatment method in diabetic retinopathy, can affect macular pigment optical density, which has protective and antioxidant properties. As a result of this effect, the retina may become more sensitive to high-energy visible light.The current study assesses the effect of panretinal photocoagulation treatment on macular pigment optical density, which has essential functions for the retina.In this prospective clinical study, the colour perimetry method was used to measure macular pigment optical density. Thirty-six eyes of 36 participants with severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy without macular involvement were included in the study. Conventional panretinal photocoagulation treatments were applied at baseline, one month, two months, and at three months to the participants who clinically required this treatment. Macular pigment optical density and retinal thickness measurements were performed at baseline, months one, two, three and six.The mean macular pigment optical density reduction in the fovea over the six-months was 0.02 ± 0.02 logarithmic units (p 0.001). Similarly, the pericentral areas declined by 0.04 ± 0.03 logarithmic units (p 0.001). Mean central macular thickness and foveal thickness increased by 5.03 ± 5.02 μm and 2.78 (interquartile range 2-4) μm, respectively. In this study, correlation analysis shows that the laser energy applied was significantly and strongly correlated with reductions in macular pigment optical density (for the fovea and pericentral area respectively: r = -0.855, p 0.001; r = -0.895, p 0.001). Further, there were significant and strong correlations between the applied laser energy, and central macular thickness and fovea thickness (r = 0.751, p 0.001; ρ = 0.718, p 0.001, respectively).Panretinal photocoagulation may potentially cause a decrease in macular pigment density in proportion to the laser energy applied.

Aim: To report the optical characteristics of the fluid in an anterior chamber iris cyst. Method: A 26-year-old male presented with blurring of vision in his right eye for two months, without any other associated ocular complaints. His visual acuity was 6/ 9 on Snellen’s chart. On slit lamp examination, a small translucent pigmented cyst was noted inferiorly in the anterior chamber, struck on to the cornea at 6 o’clock periphery, without any feeder vessel. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (OCT) revealed a cystic lesion with hyperreflective walls and hypo reflective lumen attached to the cornea, compressing the endothelium. Results: The optical density (OD) of the cyst fluid was determined using ImageJ, an open code Java-based image processing software. The OD of cyst fluid was found comparable to the anterior chamber fluid. Conclusion: Ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) and OCT are useful tools for the diagnosis of cystic lesions of the anterior segment. The innovative use of an OCT image and the ImageJ software to determine the optical density of the iris cyst may aid in the diagnosis and follow-up of such cases.

Introduction: Cataract surgery has been reported as a long-term risk of reduced macular pigment optical density (MPOD). This study investigated changes in MPOD in pseudophakic patients after lutein supplementation. Methods: Fifty-seven patients who had no ocular diseases and underwent cataract surgery with concurrent implantation of clear intraocular lenses were included. MPOD was measured before lutein supplementation and every week during 6 weeks of supplementation. Two additional measurements were conducted after the end of supplementation. Results: Compared with baseline, MPOD was increased after 1 week of supplementation (p < 0.01) and remained elevated after cessation of supplementation. After 3 weeks of supplementation, MPOD in females was higher than that in males (p < 0.05). Compared with patients at the highest quintile baseline MPOD, patients of both genders at the lowest quintile had significant increases after 6 weeks of supplementation (p < 0.05). Conclusion: MPOD increased after lutein supplementation in patients who had undergone cataract surgery. With the same amount of lutein supplementation, MPOD increased more in patients with low MPOD at baseline; it also increased more in females than in males. Lutein supplementation is presumed to support increased MPOD, which can reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration, especially in females with low MPOD.

Purpose There is robust evidence that higher macular pigment concentrations help reduce both veiling and discomfort glare in patients with or without ocular disease. We investigated whether there was also a relationship between macular pigment optical density (MPOD) and patient surveys about glare or ocular discomfort. Methods We measured MPOD psychophysically in 23 healthy subjects and administered the National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire (VFQ-25). Responses for each survey question were sorted from low (no limitation) to high (very severe limitation). The median response for each question was determined, and independent t-tests were performed on the mean MPOD values for survey responses above and below the median. We also performed a non-parametric correlation analysis between MPOD and survey responses. Results While the median response was “no limitation” for most (22 of 25) survey questions, responses were slightly higher for two questions concerning ocular discomfort and one question related to driving at night. MPOD levels were significantly higher in subjects that reported no discomfort in or around their eyes than in those that reported mild discomfort. There was also a trend toward higher MPOD levels in subjects who reported that pain in or around their eyes never limited their activity as well as in subjects who reported no difficulty driving at night. Conclusion These preliminary findings are consistent with the well-established discomfort and glare hypotheses for MPOD. The current findings on subjective ocular discomfort in the absence of glare deserve further study.

OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to conduct a comparative assessment of the optical density of bone tissue of the alveolar process of the jaws of rats in supraocclusive relationships of individual teeth in the age aspect. PATIENTS AND METHODS Materials and methods: The study was performed on 60 white laboratory rats. Rats were divided into control (30 individuals) and experimental (30 individuals) groups. According to the age of rats each group was divided into 3 subgroups (10 animals): young, mature and senile. In the experimental group, the state of supraocclusion was modeled by increasing the height of the lower right second molars placing a seal 1 mm high. Experimental animals were removed from the experiment on the 15th day through decapitation. The lower jaws were skeletonized, jaw blocks were sawn in the molar area. Bone mineral density was determined using optical densitometry. The statistical processing def i ned the average (M) and its error (m). The statistical signif i cance of the dif f erence in two independent groups was performed according to nonparametric criteria (Mann-Whitney U-test and W-Wilcoxon test). Statistical processing was conducted with the help of integrated package of statistical program AtteStat 12.0.5 for MS Excel. Dif f erences at p≤ 0.05 were considered statistically signif i cant. RESULTS Results: Statistical discrepancy is present in rats of mature and senile age, as well as between the indicators of all rats of the control and experimental groups (≤0.05). No signif i cant dif f erence was observed in young rats, but the indicators of the experimental group were 3.82% worse than in the control group. In senile rats, the density of the alveolar process decreased by 26.6%, in adult rats by 17.5%. CONCLUSION Conclusions: The presence of supraocclusive relationships of individual teeth causes a decrease in bone density of the alveolar process of the jaws in rats. The greatest loss of density among age groups in elderly rats.

Introduction Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a complication associated with the intake of osteomodifying agents (bisphosphonates, denosumab). At present, its frequency, according to various authors, may reach from one to 10 cases per 100 subjects. The literature describes the main factors in the pathogenesis of the disease. The prognostic signs of its development, which would allow timely diagnosis and prevention of the disease, remain not fully understood. Materials and methods The retrospective analysis was based on the results of a study of 52 patients with MRONJ who were treated at the Department for Maxillofacial Surgery at the Central City Hospital No. 23 in Yekaterinburg from January 2015 to December 2019 Multispiral computed tomography was used for visualization, quantitative and qualitative assessment of the jaw bone tissue. The optical density of the spongy substance was determined in Hounsfield units (HU) on the side opposite to the lesion. Results The analysis of the results of optical density showed that D1 bone type was not detected in any patient. We observed type D2 using CT in 5 cases in the central part of the lower jaw (9.61 %), in 9 cases in the central part of the upper jaw (17.3 %), as well as in the area of the angle of the lower jaw on 6 CT-scans (11.53 %). D3 and D4 bone types prevailed, D5 bone type was less common. The optical density of the structures under study was in the range from 229.8 ± 56.6 to 534.8 ± 155.4 HU. Thus, patients receiving osteomodifying therapy with bone types D3, D4, D5 are more at risk of developing MRONJ than patients with bone types D1 and D2. Conclusion It is advisable to include a mandatory MSCT with classification of bone types according to Misch and determine optical density of bone tissue in the examination protocols of such patients.

Currently, despite the wide variety of methods and tests for screening blood serum for antibodies to HCV, there are no reliable criteria that guarantee a reliable result. To date, the interpretation of the results of anti-HCV detection in samples with low CP values (low optical density in ELISA) remains one of the major tasks of laboratory diagnostics. Continuous improvement of analytical sensitivity and specificity of laboratory tests remains one of the priority tasks for manufacturers of modern test systems. The purpose of this article was to assess the specificity and sensitivity of the new Hepatitis ELISA-anti-HCV test system produced by Alkor Bio when compared with test systems from other manufacturers in settings with sera from real patients and in a series of control seroconversion panels. The article is intended for doctors of clinical laboratory diagnostics, epidemiologists, virologists, infectious disease specialists, students of medical and biological universities.

Introduction. Biofi lm-forming ability among Candida spp. on indwelling medical devices may have a negative infl uence on the outcome of invasive candidiasis in various groups of patients. Aim. The objective of this study was to evaluate the biofi lm-forming ability among Candida spp. isolated from clinical specimens in patients with hematological malignancies and patients without hematological malignancies. Materials and methods. Biofi lm production among Candida spp. was studied using XTT (Sigma-Aldrich, USA) reduction assay. Candida spp. were classifi ed as biofi lm-forming, having optical density equal to and more than 0.1, and non-biofi lmforming with optical density less than 0.1. Results. A total of 428 Candida spp. (C. albicans n = 192, C. parapsilosis n = 121, C. krusei n = 40, C. tropicalis n = 38, C. glabrata n = 37) were evaluated (172 from hematological patients, 256 from non-hematological patients, 361 from blood culture, 67 from other sterile specimens). Biofi lm-forming ability was detected among 179 (41.8%) Candida spp. with the same rate in hematological patients and non-hematological patients (41.9 % and 41.8 %, respectively). Biofi lm production predominated among non-C. albicans (52.5 %) compared to C. albicans (28.6 %, p = 0.001). Biofi lm production prevailed among C. tropicalis (89.5 %) and C. krusei (75 %) compared to C. parapsilosis (41.3 %), C. albicans (28.6 %), and C. glabrata (27 %, respectively, p Conclusion. Biofi lm-forming ability varied among the Candida spp. and prevailed among C. tropicalis and C. krusei. Biofi lm production among Candida spp. was detected with the same rate in hematological and non-hematological patients.

The quality of ink-jet printing depends to a large extent on the technical characteristics of the selected equipment and the surface properties of the printed substrates. It is known that for digital printing it is necessary to use expensive paper with a special coating that determines the degree of gloss of the surface. Therefore, ordinary offset papers before ink-jet printing are covered with primers that ensure good fixation of pigment ink or dye on paper, a wide field of color coverage, characteristic gloss, which generally contribute to high quality of imprints. As you can see, the type of the substrate and the state of its surface has a very great influence on the quality of the imprints. Result of the research, it has been confirmed that not only expensive paper of a special purpose can be used for a drop ink-jet digital printing. High-quality color imprints can also be obtained on ordinary offset and coated paper, coated before printing with special primers based on interpolymeric complexes of polyvinyl alcohol, which will provide sufficient optical density, contrast of images, and expand the possibilities of digital ink-jet printing.

The paper presents the results of a study of the surface and optical properties of the PM-1 polyimide film and the polyimide track membrane. For the study, polyimide (track) nuclear membranes manufactured by ION TRACK TECHNOLOGY FOR INNOVATIVE PRODUCT (it4ip, Belgium)) is used. The pore diameter is 200 nm, the pore density is 5 • 108 cm-1, and the thickness of the polyimide membrane is 25 μm. The data of IR spectroscopy are presented. It is shown that the decrease in the intensity of the peaks of the IR spectra of the membrane compared to the film is a consequence of the oxidative degradation of the polyimide after exposure to heavy ions and chemical etching. The data on the effects of heavy ion irradiation and chemical etching of a polyimide film to obtain a membrane on surface hydrophobicity / hydrophilicity are presented. The optical density of the film and track membranes is determined in the wavelength range of 350-950 nm. The optical density is measured in increments of 50 nm. It is shown that despite the strong difference in the spectral dependence of the optical density of the polyimide film and the track membrane, the optical density of the PM-1 film and the track membrane is quite low in the entire studied wavelength range and does not exceed 0.26 and 0.42, respectively.

This study assessed an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) based assay to detect Salmonella in swine as a potential tool to predict the presence of Salmonella in swine carcasses. The following samples were collected from 10 swine batches: blood (n = 100); environment (barn floor, n = 10, and lairage floor, n = 10); meat juice (n = 100, obtained after defrosting of diaphragm); tonsils (n = 100); mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) (n = 100); and carcasses after bleeding (n = 100), after singeing (n = 100), after evisceration (n = 100), and after final rinsing (n = 100). Blood and meat juice were subjected to ELISA to detect antibodies against Salmonella, and other samples were subjected to Salmonella detection by ISO 6579. Salmonella was detected in 3 samples from barn floors, 7 lairage floors, 45 tonsils, 43 MLNs and in 3 carcasses. Based on ELISA, Salmonella positive samples were: 86 and 46 blood serum (20% and 40% cut-offs) and 68 and 46 meat juice (20% and 40% cut-offs). Optical density readings from blood serum and meat juice presented a high and significant correlation (r = 0.93, p

Objectives Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia is a recognized concern in patients on extracorporeal life support. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the applicability of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay optical density threshold less than 1 to rule out heparin-induced thrombocytopenia in patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Design Retrospective, single-center study. Setting Patients were recruited from a prospectively maintained database of all patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation from 2012 to 2018 at a tertiary referral center. Patients Forty-seven patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support. Interventions The primary objective was to evaluate the application of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay optical density thresholds and the serotonin release assay in patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Patients were divided into two cohorts, serotonin release assay negative and serotonin release assay positive. In order to perform a sensitivity and specificity analysis of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay optical density thresholds, heparin-induced thrombocytopenia negative was defined as an optical density less than 1.0 and heparin-induced thrombocytopenia positive as an optical density greater than or equal to 1.0. Measurements and main results Utilizing the prespecified optical density thresholds, a specificity and negative predictive value of 89% and 95% were achieved, respectively. Conclusions This assessment has helped to identify optical density thresholds for patients undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Our data suggest that an optical density threshold of 1.0 may aid clinicians in objectively ruling out heparin-induced thrombocytopenia without sending a confirmatory serotonin release assay. Increasing the optical density threshold to 1.0 resulted in a high specificity and negative predictive value.

In this work, a method to reduce increase in optical density (OD) caused by multiple scanning in radiochromic film dosimetry in combination with a flatbed scanner is presented. Gafchromic EBT3 films are scanned with Epson Pro 1680 Expression scanner and time intervals of 15 minutes and 30 minutes are observed between consecutive scans to reduce the increase in temperature of the scanner. The maximum variations in OD after consecutive scans are calculated and compared to the values obtained for scans without interruption. For film irradiated to 3 Gy, a time interval of 15 minutes between two successive scans leads to a reduction of the OD increase of 56.2% compared to when films are scanned without interruption. Reductions of OD increase of 86.72% and 78.72% respectively for film irradiated to 1 Gy and 2 Gy are obtained when a time interval of 30 minutes is left between two successive scans. These results show that when time intervals are observed between consecutive scans, the increase in OD has significantly reduced. However, the method has the drawback of increasing the time needed to perform radiochromic film dosimetry.

Background: To compare the optical density of iris pigment epithelium (ODIPE) and iris stromal thickness (IST) measurements in patients having pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PXS) and age-gender matched participants. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study. Patients with PXS were enrolled in the study group. Age and gendermatched healthy subjects with no evidence of PXS were recruited as controls. After a comprehensive ophthalmological evaluation, the anterior segment images were acquired using anterior segment spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (AS SD-OCT). The acquired pictures were further analyzed using the ImageJ program. Two investigators measured the ODIPE and the IST of the subjects, and the repeatability and reproducibility were checked. SPSS program was used for statistical analysis. Results: The PXS group was comprised of twenty-two eyes (n = 22 patients), and the control group contained twenty-six eyes of 26 age and gender-matched healthy subjects. The mean temporal ODIPE of the study group was found to be decreased significantly in comparison to the mean temporal ODIPE of the control eye (p = 0.018). Both the mean nasal (N) and temporal (T) ISTs of the PEX eyes were thinner than the control eyes (p = 0.006 and p = 0.002, respectively). The mean baseline IOP was found to significantly negatively correlate with the ODIPE in the PEX group at both N and T sides (r = -0.531, p = 0.011 and r = -0.685, p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusion: The pupillary margin IPE was found more depigmented, and the mean N and T IST were significantly thinner in the PEX group by comparison with the age-gender matched healthy controls. The mean baseline IOP was negatively correlated with the pupillary margin's IPE pigmentation degree in patients with PXS.

Prompt COVID-19 diagnosis is urgently required to support infection control measures. Currently available serological tests for measuring SARS-CoV-2 antibodies use different target antigens, although their sensitivity and specificity presents a challenge. We aimed to develop an “in-house” serological ELISA to measure antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 by combining different protein antigens. Sera (n = 44) from COVID-19-confirmed patients were evaluated against different SARS-CoV-2 protein antigens and all potential combinations using ELISA. Patients’ sera were also evaluated against commercially available ELISA diagnostic kits. The mixture containing RBD 2.5 μg/mL, S2 1 μg/mL and N 1.5 μg/mL was found to be the most potent. Plates were incubated with patients’ sera (1:100), and goat anti-human alkaline phosphatase-conjugated IgG, ΙgM and IgA antibody was added. The cut-off value for each assay was determined using the mean optical density plus two standard deviations of pre-pandemic controls. The “in-house” ELISA displayed 91% sensitivity and 97% specificity for IgG antibodies, whereas its sensitivity and specificity for IgM and IgA were 75% and 95% and 73% and 91%, respectively. The “in-house” ELISA developed here combined three SARS-CoV-2 antigens (RBD, S2 and N) as capture antigens and displayed comparable and even higher sensitivity and specificity than otherwise quite reliable commercially available ELISA diagnostic kits.

We will examine and critique the future uses of artificial intelligence (AI) and mathematical modelling in medical applications, with a particular emphasis on their interactions with gold nanotechnology. There have been significant advances in the use of artificial intelligence and mathematical modelling to medical biophysics. This particular methodology assists with the advancement of nanotechnology-related study projects. There have been many papers on this subject. Now it is time to collaborate and study all of these papers in order to evaluate the progress achieved in nanotechnology as a result. Theoretical and clinical data is reviewed in order to comprehend what is present-day and new. To provide more explanation as to variable interaction, AI and mathematical modelling are used to track the specified parameters and defined equations. This commentary covers the synthesis and production of gold nanoparticles using the Turkevich and Brust and Schiffrin one-pot procedure. Results obtained indicate that the size, shape, and overall functionality of gold nanoparticles directly impact the synthetic characteristics. The light-absorbing, wavelength, and optical density properties of the gold nanoparticle vary based on the features of the gold nanoparticle. Using the appropriate nanoparticle size (depending on the wavelength of light) enables more light absorption inside the nanoparticle. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared radiation (FT-IR) spectroscopy are used to examine the cellular uptake and cytotoxicity of nanoparticles. Optimizing nanoparticle efficiency for precision cancer therapy is essential to maximizing treatment effectiveness. Manipulated nano-probes are employed in gold nanoparticle-based therapy in order to control tumour treatment. Nanoparticle sensors have the ability to collect a variety of different images and assists with diagnostics and therapeutic imaging techniques. Direct findings will assist push additional understanding and development in medical biophysics research, using AI and mathematical modelling, in biophysical gold nanoparticle technology applications.

Background: Acrylic resin has been successfully used for complete denture fabrication for many years. Color stability is very crucial clinical properties for dental materials, and color change may be an indicator of aging or damaging of materials. Aim and Objectives: This study has been designed to determine the color stability of heat cure denture base acrylic resins in commonly consumed solutions causing stains. Methodology: Four hundred disc samples of four commercially used heat cure denture base resins (Trevalon®, DPI®, Veracril®, and Pyrax®) were fabricated (100 in each group). These were checked for any change in optical density by immersing them in four different staining solutions (tea, coffee, turmeric, and betel leaf, i.e., paan) and synthetic saliva for 1-month synthetic saliva was taken as control. The denture cleansers were also evaluated for their efficacy determined by their ability to remove the stains caused by the staining solutions. Results: It was observed that Trevalon® showed least change in optical density and coffee illustrated the maximum potential for staining the denture base resins and is the most difficult to be removed using a denture cleanser. Conclusion: It can be concluded that Trevalon® demonstrated maximum color stability. Among the staining solutions, coffee caused maximum stains.

To pursue the least corneal implication during cataract surgery, this study aimed to monitor corneal wound injury after cataract surgery with a novel method. The prospective cohort study involved thirty-two patients, who were assessed by a Scheimpflug tomography AxL® (Oculus GmbH, Wetzlar, Germany) via the following two kinds of indices: whole corneal optical density (COD) and corneal thickness (CT), two weeks before and one month after cataract surgery. The results of the COD revealed that corneal annuli 0.0–2.0 mm and 2.0–6.0 mm, and the average and maximal values at the incisional site significantly increased postoperatively. Also, the anterior and central stroma of 0.0–2.0 mm, and all three depths of 2.0–6.0 mm, increased remarkably after the operation. For the CT, all ranges of diameters plus incisional sites showed significant increases postoperatively. Furthermore, we analyzed the differences (delta) of COD and CT between pre- and post-operation, and found significant correlations between the delta of COD and the delta of CT, regarding annuli 0.0–2.0 mm, 2.0–6.0 mm, and 6.0–10.0 mm, but no correlation at the incisional site, with either average density or maximal density, was detected. We concluded that whole COD and CT, especially at the central zones of the cornea (annulus &lt, 6 mm), are both valuable parameters in the assessment of corneal damage post-cataract surgery, and are independent indices at the incisional site.

BACKGROUND And Hypothesis: The long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) plays a significant shoulder stabilizing role during pitching, with the large forces and repetitions involved in overhead throwing likely contributing to LHBT pathology. Determining whether the LHBT undergoes adaptive changes in baseball pitchers and how these changes relate to bicipital groove morphology can improve our understanding of the biceps function at the glenohumeral joint. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the chronic adaptations of the bicipital groove morphology and the LHBT in professional baseball pitchers, with a secondary purpose of evaluating biceps integrity as it relates to torsional changes of the bicipital groove. We hypothesized that the throwing arm of professional baseball pitchers would exhibit chronic adaptations of the LHBT compared to their non-throwing arm, and that these adaptations would be related to the bicipital groove morphology. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifty-three professional baseball pitchers were enrolled at the beginning of the 2015 Major League Baseball spring training. Ultrasound was used to bilaterally measure humeral retroversion and to capture images of the bicipital groove and the LHBT. MATlab software was used to calculate area of the bicipital groove, and ImageJ software was used to quantify area, echogenicity, and circularity of the LHBT. RESULTS Dominant arm LHBT cross-sectional area was significantly smaller than the non-dominant arm (9 mm2 vs. 10 mm2; p=0.011), while dominant arm LHBT echogenicity was significantly higher than the non-dominant arm (65 optical density vs. 59 optical density; p=0.002). Pitchers with more bicipital groove rotational adaptation (more retroversion) had significantly more LHBT echogenicity adaptation compared to pitchers with less bicipital groove rotational adaptation (12 vs. 2; p=0.023). CONCLUSION There are significant bilateral differences in the LHBT of professional baseball pitchers. An adaptation in bony rotation was associated with a larger bilateral difference in LHBT echogenicity but was not related to bilateral differences in LHBT area or circularity. Therefore, the bilateral difference in echogenicity is impacted by bony morphology, while the bilateral difference in cross-sectional area may be independent of bony morphology in this healthy population.

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay or better known as ELISA is a method commonly used for detecting antigen / antibody in the blood sample taken from the patient. The presence of antigen / antibody is detected for diagnosing viral infection such as Hepatitis, HIV or malaria. Although this method is gold standard for viral detection, this method is rarely use due to additional equipment need for the test. The ELISA reader that being designed use wavelength of 450 nm for the measurement and measured the optical density using 8 silicone photodiode. To guarantee that every photodiode have the same wavelength, the light source are split into 8 individual channel using fiber optic. Verification method is done by comparing the measurement result from the ELISA that been designed and compare it with commercial ELISA reader. The result show that ELISA reader that been designed have measurement range from 0.03 OD to 1.62 OD with correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.962. The error from the ELISA reader that been designed is $0.091 \pm 0.096$ OD

Bacterial pathogens continually challenge food safety systems worldwide. With increasing concerns about the emergence of heat- and sanitizer-resistant bacteria, novel antibacterial agents, are urgently needed. A bacteriophage-based biocontrol strategy is the therapeutic use of phages to control bacterial pathogens in agricultural settings. Phage biocontrol is increasingly accepted as a sustainable technology, effective at decontaminating foodborne pathogens. To ensure effective biocontrol outcomes, systematic screening of phage combinations against targeted bacteria under required environmental conditions is crucial. Antibacterial efficacy of phage cocktails may be affected by phage genera and combination, targeted bacterial strains, the multiplicity of infection, temperature, and time. To formulate a phage cocktail with superior efficacy, the proposed method was to systematically evaluate the effectiveness of individual phages and phage cocktails in killing foodborne bacterial pathogens under targeted conditions. Bacterial killing efficacy was monitored by measuring optical density at desired temperatures and durations. Superior phage efficacy was determined by complete inhibition of bacterial growth. The proposed method is a robust, evidence-based approach to facilitate formulating phage cocktails with superior antibacterial efficacy.

In recent years, many studies have found that mechanical tension can activiate NF-kB signal pathway and NF-kB plays an important role in the process of osteogenesis. However, it is still unclear whether this process exists in the anterior palatal suture expansion. In this paper, we mainly studied the effect of intraperitoneal injection of PDTC on the NF-kB signaling pathway and osteogenesis index of the anterior palatal suture expansion model in young adult rats. The expansion model is grouped and established: 45 male 8-week-old Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups, an expansion only (EO) group, an expansion plus PDTC (PE) group, and a control group. The results revealed that PDTC inhibited the activity of NF-kB signaling pathway and promote one morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2), steocalatin (OCN) expression. Compared with the control group, the optical density (OD) value of BMP in the EO group and PE group rats increased significantly from the first day to the seventh day, and the difference was statistically significant (P

Зерновое сырье является самым распространенным сырьем для производства целого ряда алкогольных напитков: водка, виски, джин, саке. Из всего многообразия алкогольных напитков виски является одним из самых популярных напитков в мире. Целью данной работы является исследование влияния микроволнового излучения на водно-спиртовой раствор в процессе созревания вискового дистиллята без потери качественных характеристик. Работа выполнена на базе Кемеровского государственного университета в лаборатории кафедры Технологическое проектирование пищевых производств. При проведении исследований использовалось классическое сырье производства напитков типа «виски» и общепринятые методики оценки экспериментальных данных. Древесная щепа является экономичной альтернативой французской или сербской дубовой бочке. Исследовательская часть проводились с использованием дубовой щепы «Сладкая ваниль» при периодическом микроволновом воздействии на обрабатываемую среду. Дубовая щепа проходит стадию обжарки в специальной печи без использования каких-либо химических веществ. Выбранный материал – французский дуб – обладает довольно большими порами, что позволяет сильно воздействовать на находящуюся в резервуаре жидкость. В процессе выполнения работы получены результаты оптической плотности, содержание полифенолов и сухих веществ в выдержанном висковом дистилляте в течение 350 дней выдержки. На заключительном этапе исследований с целью определения содержания летучих органических веществ, исследуемые выдержанные висковые дистилляты проанализированы методом хромато-масс-спектрометрии. Анализ полученных данных позволил определить рациональные параметры процесса созревания вискового дистиллята, позволяющие сократить его в 3 раза. Результаты исследований свидетельствуют об интенсификации процесса созревания вискового дистиллята, при его периодической микроволновой обработки с дубовой щепой.

Aim : to evaluate the diagnostic value and objectification of the STARS questionnaire in the evaluation of risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) development. Patients and methods . 104 patients (206 eyes) 40 males (32.3 %), 84 women (67.7 %), who filled the self-administered STARS screening questionnaire, were enrolled in the study. All patients were referred without suspicion or established diagnosis of AMD of any other retinal pathology. Optical coherent tomography (OCT) and macular pigment optical density (MPOD) were carried out in order to objectify questionnaire score points and retinal structural changes. Results. The significant difference was found between patient without AMD and those with newly established AMD diagnosis not only in questionnaire score but also in some structural changes indicators: mean retinal thickness, foveal retinal thickness by OCT (

The purpose of this article is to determine the mathematical function of the optical behavior of radiographic films/images produced by gamma-ray radiography of the steel pipes. In order to achieve this goal, we used realistic films for welding tests on the oil and gas pipelines in the operational areas. Eight films were selected in each, three sections including the base metal, weld line, and defects were carefully examined. First, the best film was selected and more than 40 probability functions were fitted on its data. Among the fitted probability functions, 13 functions were selected from a condition of R-sq ≥ 0.95. Eventually, these 13 functions were applied to the data of all available films for a better comparison. Furthermore, a new function was proposed by the authors, which showed that the fitting was based on the results. The new proposed function, fulfilled not only the best R-sq, but also the most flexibility in the case of scattered data.

A knowledge of the spectral sensitivities of the long-wavelength-sensitive (L-), middle-wavelength-sensitive (M-) and short-wavelength-sensitive (S-) wavelength-sensitive cone types is vital for modelling human color vision and for the practical applications of color matching and color specification. After being agnostic about defining standard cone spectral sensitivities, the Commission Internationale de l’ Eclairage (CIE) has sanctioned the cone spectral sensitivity estimates of Stockman and Sharpe (2000) and the associated measures of luminous efficiency (Sharpe et al., 2005, 2011) as ‘physiologically relevant’ standards for color vision (CIE, 2006, 2015). These can be used to model mean normal color vision at the photoreceptor level and postreceptorally. Both LMS and XYZ versions have been defined for 2-deg and 10-deg vision. Built into the standards are corrections for individual differences in macular and lens pigment densities, but individual differences in photopigment optical density and the spectral position of the cone photopigments can also be accommodated (Stockman and Sharpe, 1999; Brainard and Stockman, 2010). Understanding the CIE standard and its advantages is of current interest and importance.

We performed retrospective analysis of cytological and histological smears from 52 women examined and treated in N.N. Petrov National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ministry of Health of Russia. We have developed a simplified method of densitomorphometry using cytological smears stained with hematoxylin and eosin to verify the diagnosis of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). We have identified threshold values for the differentiation between CIN-1/2 and CIN-3: integrated optical density of 4.5 C and percentage of atypical nuclei with a ploidy level ≥5 C of 40 %. The new method verified the morphological diagnosis of CIN in 18 out of 52 patients (34.6 %), including those with discrepant results of cytology and histology. The method can be also used to verify the cytological diagnosis of CIN-3 in patients with negative histology.

In recent years, because of population growth and economic developments, there has been a significant increase in the number of Office Buildings in our country. Due to the difficulties and high costs of changing the faulty project of these kind of complex buildings, the emergency case evacuation scenarios should plan while the building is in project phase. Office buildings should also be carefully constructed considering these plans. In addition, evacuation scenarios should be develop and apply depending on locations and number of the occupant in the building. If the extraction does not start due to a pre-planned scenario, optical density may be associated with death from asphyxiation. For this reason, current evacuation scenarios should be prepared, fire drills should be made as much as possible and the most effective evacuation scenario should be determined by using developing software technology. In this study, six different scenarios were prepared for human and structural evacuation elements and simulated using an evacuation software. From the simulation results, the most appropriate evacuation scenario was determined.

Background: The aim of this study was to determine the intra-session repeatability and inter-examiner reproducibility of the colour perimetry technique when assessing in vivo macular pigment optical density in age-related macular degeneration patients. Methods: Age-related macular degeneration patients were classified into four groups: early age-related macular degeneration, intermediate age-related macular degeneration, atrophic age-related macular degeneration and neovascular age-related macular degeneration after undergoing fundus photography (TRC 50DX type IA) and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography analysis (Topcon 3D-2000). Central fixation was confirmed in all patients using the MP-1 microperimeter (Nidek, Padua, Italy). To analyse repeatability, one examiner obtained three consecutive macular pigment optical density measures with MonCV3 device (Metrovision, Perenchies, France). To study agreement between two observers, a second examiner performed another macular pigment optical density measurement in random order. Within-subject standard deviation, coefficient of variation, and intraclass correlation coefficient data were obtained. Results: Fifty two (32 females and 20 males) consecutive age-related macular degeneration patients having a mean age of 71.5 ± 8.2 years were recruited. Six had early age-related macular degeneration, 25 had intermediate age-related macular degeneration, 10 had atrophic age-related macular degeneration and 11 had neovascular age-related macular degeneration. For repeatability, coefficient of variation values ranged from 22.3% (neovascular age-related macular degeneration) to 41.0% (atrophic age-related macular degeneration) and intraclass correlation coefficient values from 0.52 (intermediate age-related macular degeneration) to 0.79 (neovascular age-related macular degeneration). For agreement between two examiners, coefficient of variation values ranged from 20.1% (intermediate age-related macular degeneration) to 37.8% (neovascular age-related macular degeneration) and intraclass correlation coefficient values from 0.61 (neovascular age-related macular degeneration) to 0.80 (atrophic age-related macular degeneration). Conclusion: The reliability (intra-session repeatability and inter-examiner reproducibility) of colour perimetry technique to assess macular pigment optical density in age-related macular degeneration patients is only moderate. Thus, it cannot be recommended to be performed when evaluating and monitoring age-related macular degeneration patients in the daily clinic.

Background: To evaluate macular pigment optical density (MPOD) after bimanual femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) compared to standard bimanual phacoemulsification (B-MICS). Methods: A prospective, case matched, comparative cohort study conducted at the Institute of Ophthalmology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy); 30 eyes underwent bimanual FLACS with low-energy Ziemer LDV Z8 (FLACS) and 30 underwent B-MICS standard technique (B-MICS). All interventions were conducted by the same expert surgeon. MPOD using the Macular Pigment Screener II (MPS II) was evaluated at baseline, 7 and 30 days after surgery. As secondary outcomes, we considered best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central macular thickness (CMT) obtained using optical coherence tomography. Results: In all cases, a BunnyLens AF IOL was safely implanted in the capsular bag through a 1.4 mm incision. We found a significant reduction in MPOD in both groups at 7 and 30 days; 0.16±0.14 and 0.10±0.12 (FLACS) and 0.18±0.13 and 0.15±0.14 (B-MICS), respectively (P

Purpose To investigate the optical density (OD) characteristics and clinical relevance of subretinal fluid in choroidal melanoma and choroidal metastasis. Methods Medical records of patients with choroidal melanoma and choroidal metastasis who underwent optical coherence tomography examinations at diagnosis before any intervention and whose optical coherence tomography scans showed sufficient subretinal fluid for sampling were reviewed. The highest quality B-scan containing subretinal fluid was analyzed. Optical density measurements obtained using ImageJ and optical density ratios (ODRs) were calculated as subretinal fluid OD divided by vitreous OD. Patient details and diagnosis were masked during measurements. Nonparametric tests for independent samples were used to detect differences in ODR between groups. Results Of the 39 cases of choroidal tumors that met the inclusion criteria, 14 were diagnosed as metastases and 25 as malignant melanoma. There were no significant differences between the groups in age, optical coherence tomography acquisition and parameters of quality, and vitreous OD. Optical density ratio values were significantly lower in metastases cases (mean 0.68, SD ±0.18) than in melanoma cases (0.95 ± 0.33, P = 0.006). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis yielded an optimal cutoff of ODR = 0.771 (sensitivity = 78.6%, specificity = 72.0%). Conclusion Optical density ratio can serve as an additional test to differentiate between choroidal melanoma and choroidal metastases.

Background and Objective: Infusion containing lorazepam is used by geriatric department to limit anxiety disorders in the elderly. Currently, these infusions are prepared according to demand by the nursing staff, but the preparation in advance in a centralized service could improve quality of preparation and time management. The aim of this study was to investigate the long-term stability of this infusion in polypropylene syringes stored at 5 ± 3°C. Then, results obtained were compared with stability data of lorazepam in syringes stored at room temperature, glass bottles at 5 ± 3°C, and glass bottles at room temperature. Method: Eight syringes and 6 bottles of infusion were prepared by diluting 1 mL lorazepam 4 mg in 23 mL of NaCl 0.9% under aseptic conditions. Five syringes and 3 bottles were stored at 5 ± 3°C and 3 syringes and 3 bottles were stored at room temperature for 30 days. During the storage period, particle appearance or color change were periodically checked by visual and microscope inspection. Turbidity was assessed by measurements of optical density (OD) at 3 wavelengths (350 nm, 410 nm, 550 nm). The stability of pH was also evaluated. The lorazepam concentrations were measured at each time point by high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detector at 220 nm. Results: Solutions were physically unstable in syringes at 5 ± 3°C after 4 days: crystals and a drop of OD at 350 nm were observed. However, pH was stable. After 2 days, solutions were considered as chemically unstable because a loss of lorazepam concentration higher than 10% was noticed: the lower 1-sided confidence limit at 95% was below 90% of the initial concentration. To assess temperature and polypropylene influence, results were compared with those obtained for syringes at room temperature and bottles at 5 ± 3°C and room temperature. Precipitation, drop of OD at 350 nm, and chemical instability were observed in all conditions. Conclusion: Solutions of lorazepam were unstable after 2 days in syringes at 5 ± 3°C. Preparation in advance appears, therefore, not possible for the clinical use. Storage conditions (temperature and form) do not improve the stability.

We present results of developing metrological assurance for the measurements of the optical density of an X-ray image based on a set of optical density measures in the range of 0.2 to 6.3. The set has been designed to render one unit of diffuse optical density for densitometers used to measure optical density and estimate the size of defects on X-ray images when inspecting nuclear power facilities, oil and gas enterprises, railway transport, metallurgical and mechanical-engineering plants, etc. Results of calibrating the set of optical density measures with the GET 206-2016 State Primary Standard of the unit of optical density, developed and in operation at VNIIOFI, are presented.

This work presents research results of surface, including optical characteristics of poly (ethylene terephthalate) film under the influence of heavy ion radiation and following chemical etching for use as light filter. The optical density of the films and track membranes was determined in the wavelength range of 310-990 nm. Optical density measurements were carried out with gap of 50 nm. Track membrane was researched with the track diameters of 300 nm and concentration of 4·108см-1. It is determined, that the optical density of the initial film and irradiated are comparatively low in the entire researched wavelength range and does not exceed the value of 0.1. It is shown that for the track membrane in the ultraviolet region there is a sharp rise in the optical density values, at the wavelength of 650 nm to the maximum value, and the values gradually decrease in visible color and continue to decrease in the IR region.

Idiopathic macular telangiectasia type 2 (IMT2) is a relatively uncommon clinical condition with an estimated prevalence of 1% within the general population. This condition can be challenging to precisely identify in early stages but advancements in clinical imaging to include fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) can allow for timely diagnosis and prompt intervention that may leads to improved long-term clinical outcomes. Emerging literature has recognized the role of macular pigment (MP) in IMT2 in terms of Henle fiber layer deposition mechanisms and potential mitigation of inflammatory and oxidative stress. Primary care optometrists are in a unique position to facilitate early detection and manage through close evaluation and individualized lutein and zeaxanthin supplementation. Keywords:Idiopathic macular telangiectasia type 2; Macular pigment; Spectral domain optical coherence tomography angiography