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To study role of intrastromal and intracameral voriconazole combination in recalcitrant fungal Keratitis.: 20 cases of recalcitrant fungal keratitis involving >50% stromal thickness and not showing good response to oral fluconazole, topical natamycin (5%) and topical voriconazole (1%) eye drops after 4 weeks of treatment were included in the study after taking informed written consent. Patients with impending or frank perforation, scleral involvement and endophthalmitis were excluded from the study. 30 min before the procedure, patient was given Tab acetazolamide 250mg stat to lower the intraocular pressure (IOP). Then under all aseptic conditions, 50 microgram/0.1 ml dose of intrastromal and intracameral voriconazole was given with 30G needle. Cases were examined daily for 1 week and then every week for 4 weeks for monitoring progression of fungal keratitis. Out of 20 cases, 18 (90%) patients showed significant improvement after 4 weeks. Depending on the response after 1 week, patients were planned for repeat injection and only 1 patient required >3 injections in whom Lasiodiplodia theobromae was the causative organism. Only 1 patient got worsened and was ultimately managed with therapeutic keratoplasty. Intrastromal and intracameral voriconazole combination is an easy procedure with short learning curve which is highly efficacious and cost effective in recalcitrant fungal keratitis.

The aim of this study was to determine the association of near work and dim light with myopia among school children in a district in North India.This study included a total of 1400 children of either sex studying in classes 5-10 in various schools of a district in North India, after taking consent from their guardians. Visual acuity was measured using Snellen's chart. Myopes were called to our institute where wet retinoscopy was done and spectacles were prescribed.There was a highly statistically significant correlation between myopia and increase in reading hours (P=0.001). There was a statistically significant correlation between myopia and6hours of using mobile phones /week, more hours spent on using mobile phones correlated with an increased prevalence of myopia (P0.01). There was a statistically significant correlation between myopia and increasing hours of playing video games (P0.01). We found a highly statistically significant positive correlation between the prevalence of myopia and reading in dim light (P=0.0006).There was a positive association between myopia and hours of doing near work. The prevalence of myopia increased with increased hours of doing near work (reading, playing video games and using mobile phones). The study showed a correlation between reading in dim light and myopia. Prevention of myopia may be possible by avoiding these risk factors.

The aim of this study was to determine the correlation of parental and childhood myopia among school children aged 5-16 years in North India.This study included a total of 1400 children aged 5-16 years in a district in North India. Visual acuity was measured using a Snellen's chart. Children with myopia after retinoscopy were worked up in detail in our institute and a history of parental myopia was taken.A total of 1400 students studying in class 5-10, aged between 5 and 16 years, were screened. A total of 487 students had myopia. Of the 487 myopes, 220 (45.2%) had parental myopia, of which 115 (30.1%) had myopia in both parents, 64 (19.3%) had mothers with myopia, and 41 (13.3%) had fathers with myopia. The prevalence of paternal (P = 0.001) and maternal (P = 0.002) myopia in myopes compared to parental myopia in emmetropes was found to be highly significant. There was a highly significant statistical correlation between maternal myopia and myopia in the child, when compared to the presence of myopia in both the parents (P = 0.007).There was a statistically significant correlation between myopia in the parents and children, which was more significant in the mothers of the children.

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, especially in developing countries. In countries like India, late presentation and lack of awareness contribute to blindness caused by glaucoma. The only way to reduce the burden of blindness due to glaucoma is early diagnosis. The Fourier Domain OCT (FD-OCT) has evolved into one of the best techniques for early diagnosis and monitoring the progress of glaucoma. The measurement of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) is of paramount importance in glaucoma. We, at a tertiary eye institute, undertook the present study on a FD-OCT to compare the retinal nerve fiber layer in 50 eyes each of glaucoma patients (Group A) and non-glaucomatous volunteers (Group B). An informed consent was taken from all candidates. In Group a mean ± SD of average, superior, inferior retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (µm) were 94.26 ± 13.436, 96.08 ± 15.485, 92.45 ± 13.179 respectively and in Group B mean ± SD of average, superior, inferior retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (µm) were 114.9 ± 8.022, 116.7 ± 8.058, and 113.1 ± 10.692 respectively. Using independent t-test the difference between both the groups was found to be highly significant in all the sectors. This demonstrates the need for a baseline RNFL in all glaucomatous and glaucoma suspect eyes. Using independent t-test the difference between both the groups was found to be highly significant for all the GCC parameters. The focal loss of volume (FLV)% was 3.692 ± 3.533 in the glaucomatous eyes and 0.856 ± 1.211 in the non-glaucomatous eyes, p

Ocular allergy in the form of Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis is one of the most common conditions that ophthalmologists deal with. The signs and symptoms can be distressing and debilitating. The search is still on for the perfect topical drug with maximum efficacy and minimum side effects. We decided to undertake a study to compare and evaluate the efficacy of 3 commonly used drugs, topical Ketorolac tromethamine 0.5%, Ketotifen fumarate 0.05% and Azelastine hydrochloride in patients of Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis. 150 patients of Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis of both sexes in the age group of 15- 55 years were included. Patients included in the study had bilateral signs and symptoms of Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis. Group A patients were given Ketorolac tromethamine 0.5% to be instilled four times a day; Group B patients were given Ketotifen fumarate 0.05% to be instilled two times a day, and Group C patients were given Azelastine hydrochloride 0.05% to be instilled two times a day. The drops were dispensed in identical containers labeled A to C so that the patient did not know the type of drug administered. Informed consent was taken from all the patients. Patients were given the drugs on day 0 and the responses were assessed at 30 minutes (day 0), day 2, day 7, day 14, day 28 and 3 months. The drugs were instilled in both the eyes but the efficacy variables were studied in the eye with greater sign and symptoms. If both eyes had same grades of signs and symptoms, left eye of the patient was assessed. All 3 groups were age and sex matched. On each visit, the patient’s signs and symptoms were graded by the investigator and the total score was noted. During the course of the study, patients were asked regarding any side effects pertaining to the drugs being instilled. Drug A (Ketorolac) had a statistically significant difference as compared to Drug B (Ketotifen) at all follow-up intervals (p< 0.05), except at three month follow up, when there was no significant difference between them (p = 0.07). Also, Drug A had a statistically significant difference as compared to Drug C (Azelastine) throughout the study period (p< 0.05). On comparing Drug B and Drug C, we observed a significant difference from the seventh day onwards. All three drugs had a statistically significant improvement in the total score over baseline from the 30 minute period (p< 0.001).

Purpose: To describe clinical characteristics of patients who presented with acute symptomatic posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) and determine the prevalence and predictors of retinal tears and retinal complications.Material and methods: 250 patients who presented in RIO, PGIMS, Rohtak, Haryana with clinical diagnosis of acute symptomatic PVD were examined and followed up over a period of 1 year. Results: A total of 250 patients who presented with acute PVD-related symptoms like floaters, flashes of light or deterioration in vision were enrolled in our study. Incidence of retinal tear was found to be 8% (n=20) and that of vitreous hemorrhage or retinal hemorrhage was 14% (n=35) in our study group over a period of 1 year. Predictors of retinal tears were visual impairment, vitreous hemorrhage and duration of symptoms

BACKGROUND Glaucoma consists of a group of optic neuropathies characterized by progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells. These cells are central nervous system neurons that have their cell bodies in the inner retina and axons in the optic nerve. Degeneration of these cells results in optic disc cupping and vision loss. The objective of this study was to determine the cause of noncompliance in diagnosed cases of open angle glaucoma in Rohtak district of Haryana. METHODS A total of 50 patients having confirmed diagnosis of primary open-angle glaucoma on anti-glaucoma medication of either sex attending the glaucoma clinic of PGIMS, Rohtak, was enrolled in this follow up study. Diagnosed patients of glaucoma on treatment underwent applanation tonometry for intraocular pressure and patients were asked about number of times they missed their medication and what were the reasons for the same. Visual field analysis was done at the end of follow up period of 4 months. The data was analysed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) version 21.0. Chi square test was applied for comparison. Point of statistical significance was considered if p < 0.05. RESULTS 68.0% patients were compliant to the treatment and 32.0% patients were noncompliant. 43.8% (7 patients) were non-compliant due to forgetfulness, 31.3% (5 patients) due to high cost of drugs, 6.3% due to improper instillation, long duration of treatment, side effect of medication and more number of drugs. CONCLUSIONS In our study, it was also observed that forgetfulness (60%) was the most common cause of non-compliance in high income groups whereas high cost of drug (25%) was the most common cause of non-compliance in low income groups. In our study, lower compliance was found in elderly patients (above 60 years of age) which may be due to the reduced vision, coordination or memory and lack of family support.

The aim of this study is to Evaluation of Efficacy and Safety of Bepotastine Besilate 0.15% Ophthalmic Solution in Patients of Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis (VKC). This was a prospective, open label and randomized clinical study. Fifty patients of vernal keratoconjunctivitis between 6 to 20 years of age of either sex willing to give informed consent were enrolled in the study. Patients received Bepotastine besilate (0.15%) eye drops twice daily for 8 weeks. Symptoms scoring and signs scoring of VKC were recorded on baseline and at the time of follow up at 4 and 8 weeks. Safety assessments were also done in the drug group during the study period for any serious adverse effects. After the 2 months of drug therapy, patients showed improvement in the symptoms and signs scoring of Vernal keratoconjunctivitis. There was statistically significant difference between the treatment group at 4th and 8th week. The drugs were well tolerated without any serious adverse effect. Bepotastine besilate ophthalmic solution were found to be effective in alleviating the clinical symptoms and signs of VKC.

Cataract surgery remains the foremost cause of reversible blindness globally. Phacoemulsification requires expensive equipment, instruments and higher cost of disposables, along with a longer training curve. Manual small incision cataract surgery (MSICS) has evolved to provide excellent postoperative results, with minimal cost. In developing countries like India, patients present with white/advanced cataract, for which MSICS has proven to provide the best results. MSCIS can be used in any type of cataract, with any type of foldable/rigid intraocular lens implantation. Minimising surgically induced astigmatism is of paramount importance as the patient achieves good uncorrected vision postoperatively, which is the need of the hour. The Chevron incision in MSICS has been reported to provide the best results. We undertook the present study in 100 eyes with white cataract/nuclear sclerosis of grade 4-6 to analyse and compare MSCIS through the Frown incision and Chevron incision. The mean surgically induced astigmatism incision was more in the Frown group (0.82D±0.62) than in the Chevron group (0.55D±0.42), which was statistically significant. (p 0.017). In the Frown versus Chevron group, the best uncorrected visual acuity was 6/12 or better in 62% and 82% respectively. Thus, the Chevron incision was superior to the Frown incision for MSICS, while both yielded good postoperative results. MSICS is the most affordable and effective surgery of choice, especially for white/ hard cataracts.

Purpose Juvenile-onset open-angle glaucoma (JOAG) is an uncommon type of primary open-angle glaucoma that affects individuals during childhood and early adulthood. Pathogenic variants in the myocilin gene account for varying frequencies of primary open-angle glaucoma and JOAG cases in different populations. This study has screened and identified novel and previously identified myocilin variants in a north Indian cohort of JOAG patients. Methods Eighty unrelated JOAG cases and one hundred controls have been screened for MYOC variants by PCR and DNA sequencing of exons. Results DNA sequencing revealed seventeen different variants. Out of these variants, five (p.G122A, p.R136I, p.S173T, p.K216I, and p.R200KTer*15) were novel and registered in NCBI. Pathogenic MYOC variants identified in 7.5% of JOAG cases. Conclusion Pathogenic myocilin variants account for 7.5% of cases of JOAG in our patient’s cohort. This study augments the mutation spectrum of the MYOC gene, provides population-specific information, and aids in better understanding the underlying lesions of the disease.

Degloving injuries are a result of rotational forces that stretch the skin and subcutaneous tissue causing their avulsion from the deeper, less mobile musculoskeletal structures. In this case report, we present the case of a 53 year old male pedestrian who sustained a grievous hemi-facial injury with expulsion of eyeball just because of improper implementation and non- following of traffic rules. Most Hemi-facial degloving injuries are reported with intact vision and eyeball. An extensive hemi-facial degloving avulsion injury with rupture of the eyeball encountered by us is extremely rare. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first such reported case in literature. This nature of grievous injury could have been avoided with proper lighting and following of traffic rules. Keywords: Hemi-facial, Degloving, Rupture, Eyeball, Traffic rules.

3-D vertically aligned few-layered graphene (FLGs) nanoflakes synthesised using microwave plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition are melt-impregnated with partially reduced graphene oxide-sulfur (PrGO-S) nanocomposites for use in lithium–sulfur batteries. The aligned structure and the presence of interconnected micro voids/channels in the 3-D FLG/PrGO-S electrodes serves as template not only for the high sulfur loading (up to 80 wt%, areal loading of 1.2 mg cm−2) but also compensates for the volume changes occurring during charge–discharge cycles. The inter-connectivity of the electrode system further facilitates fast electronic and ionic transport pathways. Consequently, the binder-free 3-D FLG/PrGO-S electrodes display a high first-cycle capacity (1320 mA h g−1 at C/20), along with excellent rate capability of ∼830 mA h g−1 and 700 mA h g−1 at 2C and 5C rates, respectively. The residual functional groups of PrGO (–OH, –C–O–C– and –COOH) facilitate fast and reversible capture of Li+ ions while confining the polysulfide shuttles, thus, contributing to excellent cycling capability and retention capacity. The 3D electrodes demonstrate excellent capacity retention of ∼80% (1040 mA h g−1 at C/10) over 350 charge–discharge cycles. Comparatively, the 2-D planar PrGO-S electrodes displayed poor electronic conductivity and can only provide 560 mA h g−1 after 150 cycles, thereby further highlighting the vital role of the electrode morphology in improving the electrochemical performance of Li–S batteries.

We present 2 cases of calcification of posterior chamber intraocular lenses (IOLs) that presented to the outpatient department of our institute with diminution of vision a few months after successful cataract surgery. Intraocular lens exchange with a hydrophobic IOL was performed in both cases, resulting in a restoration of vision.

© 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim. During the last decade, the synthesis and application of metal-organic framework (MOF) nanosheets has received growing interest, showing unique performances for different technological applications. Despite the potential of this type of nanolamellar materials, the synthetic routes developed so far are restricted to MOFs possessing layered structures, limiting further development in this field. Here, a bottom-up surfactant-assisted synthetic approach is presented for the fabrication of nanosheets of various nonlayered MOFs, broadening the scope of MOF nanosheets application. Surfactant-assisted preorganization of the metallic precursor prior to MOF synthesis enables the manufacture of nonlayered Al-containing MOF lamellae. These MOF nanosheets are shown to exhibit a superior performance over other crystal morphologies for both chemical sensing and gas separation. As revealed by electron microscopy and diffraction, this superior performance arises from the shorter diffusion pathway in the MOF nanosheets, whose 1D channels are oriented along the shortest particle dimension.

In this work commercially available Fe3O4 NPs were coated with polyallylamine hydrochloride (PAH) and PAH functionalized with guanidinium groups (PAH–Gu) for investigating the phosphate adsorption properties under alkaline conditions. The coating can be prepared easily and rapidly and results in Fe3O4 NPs with improved properties related to phosphate binding and colloidal stability. At a low initial phosphate concentration (2 mg L−1), the novel Fe3O4@PAH–Gu material was able to remove phosphate rather independently of the pH condition (4.0, 3.6 and 3.7 mg g−1 at pH = 5, 8 and 10, respectively), whereas for the uncoated Fe3O4 NPs the amount of adsorbed phosphate drops by >75% upon changing from acidic to alkaline conditions (0.84 mg g−1 at pH = 10). Under alkaline conditions, the fastest adsorption was observed for Fe3O4@PAH–Gu followed by Fe3O4@PAH and Fe3O4. This can be related to the additional interaction forces due to the presence of primary amine groups (in PAH and PAH–Gu) and Gu groups (in PAH–Gu only) in coatings. Over 80% of the phosphate adsorbed on the novel Fe3O4@PAH–Gu material was successfully desorbed and the coated NPs were re-used over three adsorption/desorption cycles. This work will stimulate the design and preparation of functionalized polyelectrolytes for an extended area of applications, especially for the selective removal of target compounds from wastewater.

Injury to the ocular surface has been described to occur with a wide variety of chemicals. In most cases the cause is industrial injury with acids or alkalis. We are reporting a case of ocular surface injury due to "Cow urine" which to the best of our knowledge is been reported for the first time. Cow urine is a well-accepted medicinal ingredient in ancient Indian medicine. However, wrong formulation and inadvertent prescriptions by quacks can lead to severe ocular surface injury and morbidity. Here, with this case report we have discussed the possible culprit and possible mechanism of ocular injury due to instillation of a concoction containing cow urine as an active ingredient and also discuss legal aspects of quackery in India.

The in situ electrochemical growth of Cu benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylate (CuBTC) metal-organic frameworks, as an affinity layer, directly on custom-fabricated Cu interdigitated electrodes (IDEs) is described, acting as a transducer. Crystalline 5-7 μm thick CuBTC layers are grown on IDEs consisting of 100 electrodes with a width and a gap of both 50 μm and a height of 6-8 μm. These capacitive sensors are exposed to methanol and water vapor at 30 °C. The affinities show to be completely reversible with higher affinity toward water compared to methanol. For exposure to 1000 ppm methanol, a fast response is observed with a capacitance change of 5.57 pF at equilibrium. The capacitance increases in time followed diffusion-controlled kinetics (k = 2.9 mmol s-0.5 g-1 CuBTC). The observed capacitance change with methanol concentration follows a Langmuir adsorption isotherm, with a value for the equilibrium affinity Ke = 174.8 bar-1. A volume fraction fMeOH = 0.038 is occupied upon exposure to 1000 ppm of methanol. The thin CuBTC affinity layer on the Cu-IDEs shows fast, reversible, and sensitive responses to methanol and water vapor, enabling quantitative detection in the range of 100-8000 ppm.

The Hamaker constant between graphene oxide and silica, which quantifies the strength of van der Waals forces is determined, by mimicking a “vacuum spacer” in an atomic force microscopyforce study. It is demonstrated that, a 2D spacer is expected to yield an accurately defined separation, owing to the high atom density and strength in planar direction compared with other dimensional spacers.

The catalytic properties of Pd alloy thin films are enhanced by a thin sputtered PTFE coating, resulting in profound improvements in hydrogen adsorption and desorption in Pd-based and Pd-catalyzed hydrogen sensors and hydrogen storage materials. The remarkably enhanced catalytic performance is attributed to chemical modifications of the catalyst surface by the sputtered PTFE leading to a possible change in the binding strength of the intermediate species involved in the hydrogen sorption process.

Hydrogen and oxygen surface-terminated nanocrystalline diamond (NCD) films are studied by the contactless time-resolved microwave conductivity (TRMC) technique and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The optoelectronic properties of undoped NCD films are strongly affected by the type of surface termination. Upon changing the surface termination from oxygen to hydrogen, the TRMC signal rises dramatically. For an estimated quantum yield of 1 for sub-bandgap optical excitation the hole mobility of the hydrogen-terminated undoped NCD was found to be ∼0.27 cm(2)/(V s) with a lifetime exceeding 1 μs. Assuming a similar mobility for the oxygen-terminated undoped NCD a lifetime of ∼100 ps was derived. Analysis of the valence band spectra obtained by XPS suggests that upon oxidation of undoped NCD the surface Fermi level shifts (toward an increased work function). This shift originates from the size and direction of the electronic dipole moment of the surface atoms, and leads to different types of band bending at the diamond/air interface in the presence of a water film. In the case of boron-doped NCD no shift of the work function is observed, which can be rationalized by pinning of the Fermi level. This is confirmed by TRMC results of boron-doped NCD, which show no dependency on the surface termination. We suggest that photoexcited electrons in boron-doped NCD occupy nonionized boron dopants, leaving relatively long-lived mobile holes in the valence band.

Background: An even and smooth ocular surface is vital for the functioning and comfort of the eyes. Dry eye is a group of disorders of the tear film which is due to either decreased production or increased evaporation and is associated with symptoms of ocular discomfort. Smoking and drugs have been suggested as risk factors in various studies. Cyclosporine has been shown to reduce the cell-mediated inflammatory reactions associated with the inflammatory ocular surface disease.Methods: 50 eyes of 25 patients suffering from dry-eye syndrome were included in this study. Three major ocular symptoms of dry eye i.e., ocular pain, burning, and foreign body sensation were studied in this study. Each symptom was given a score from 0 to 1 so that the ocular symptoms were given a score from 0 to 3.Results: There was a significant reduction in ocular symptoms score (OSS) 2.25 before treatment to 0.6 after 3 months of treatment (p=0.01). In addition, the Schirmer's paper test scores improved from 1.23 mm to 5.91 mm, which is significantly different (p=0.001). The tear film breakup time also improved from 5.49s to 9.86s.Conclusions: Cyclosporine 0.05% has been established to be effective and safe in our study.

This review article highlights the newer diagnostic modalities and approaches in the medical management of infectious keratitis. A Medline literature search conducted to March 2014 has been included. Recent studies or publications were selected from international indexed journals using suitable key words. Development of specular microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has a promising role as diagnostic modalities in infectious keratitis, especially in refractory cases. Previously fortified antibiotics have been the mainstay of treatment for bacterial keratitis. Recently, the advent of fourth-generation fluoroquinolones monotherapy has shown promising results in the management of bacterial keratitis. Corneal collagen cross-linking is being considered in the refractory cases. Topical natamycin and amphotericin B should be considered as the first choice anti-fungal agents in suspected filamentous or yeast infection respectively. Voriconazole and newer routes of administration such as intrastromal and intracameral injection of conventional anti-fungal agents have demonstrated a positive clinical response. Ganciclovir is a newer anti-viral agent with promising results in herpes simplex keratitis. Thus, introduction of newer diagnostic modalities and collagen cross-linking along with fourth-generation fluoroquinolones and newer azoles have a promising role in the management of infectious keratitis.

We report a simple method for sensor development using polymer-MOF composite films. Nanoparticles of NH2-MIL-53(Al) dispersed in a Matrimid polyimide were applied as a thin film on top of capacitive sensor devices with planar electrodes. These drop-cast films act as an affinity layer. Sensing studies carried out with methanol vapor using impedance spectroscopy demonstrate that the presence of MOF enhances the overall response and lowers the detection limit compared to MOF-free polymer films and bare devices. This can be understood by additional changes of the local polarity of the composite films due to higher adsorption of methanol by the porous MOF particles. We expect that this work will stimulate the design of composite polymeric affinity layers for a range of analytes by a proper choice of dispersed MOF particles.

A study of a copper-based metal–organic framework (MOF) synthesized by an electrochemical route is presented. Morphological and adsorption properties of the MOF synthesized as bulk powder and on supported copper surfaces were investigated. Differences in these properties and structural refinement studies indicate that when 4,4′,4′′-s-triazine-2,4,6-triyl-tribenzoic acid (H3TATB) is used as linker interpenetration can be prevented when the structure is grown on a surface.Graphical abstract: Control of interpenetration of copper-based MOFs on supported surfaces by electrochemical synthesis

Background: The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence and the causes of low vision among school going children in and around Rohtak district of Haryana, India. Such information is important in planning for prevention of low vision and blindness strategies.Methods: 2028 school children studying in class 1-5 were screened in the school premises. Visual acuity was assessed with Snellen’s chart and colour vision was tested with ishihara colour vision book. Those with vision

A patient presented with a metallic nail impacted in the right orbital floor after being hit by a projectile. The nail was disimpacted and removed as guided by the radiograph image. Radiography proved helpful in forming a coherent scheme for case management.

Road traffic accident is one of the important causes of ocular trauma. There is a need for strict traffic rules in third world countries where a majority of people travel on two wheelers and that too without a helmet. People generally tend to over speed or try to fit in their children on a two wheeler in our country. In this case report, we present a case of complete avulsion of eye ball and optic nerve in a patient of a road traffic accident. There are no documented cases of avulsion of the globe and optic nerve due to a road traffic accident in the available literature.

Background: Refractive errors are the commonest cause of visual impairment in school children worldwide. They can be easily corrected by a pair of spectacles, only when they are used regularly. The purpose of present study is to document the actual rate of spectacle wear at the time of examination, assess principle determinants of spectacle wear and reasons for non-compliance among different demographic groups.Methods: 200 school children in the age group of 6-15 years with refractive errors were selected. The schools were visited without prior intimation to the students 3 months after the initial examination. Reasons for spectacle wear non-compliance were enquired.Results: 78 (39.0%) children out of 200 were compliant to spectacle wear, while 122 (61.0%) were non-compliant to spectacle wear. Main reason for not wearing spectacles was ‘teased about the appearance with spectacles’.Conclusions: School teachers should explain the risk of non-wearing of spectacles and benefits of spectacle wearing to both children and their parents. Most of the children were not compliant because they were teased about, did not like, or were not comfortable in their spectacles- all societal issues that could and should be addressed.

Palladium nanoparticles can split the dihydrogen bond and produce atomic hydrogen. When the metal nanoparticles are in intimate contact with a hydrogen-atom host, chemisorption of H-atoms by the host has been suggested to occur via the hydrogen spillover mechanism. Metal–organic frameworks were predicted to be able to act as effective chemisorption sites, and increased ambient-temperature hydrogen adsorption was reported on several occasions. The intimate contact was supposedly ensured by the use of a carbon bridge. In this work, we show that it is possible to introduce catalyst palladium particles into MOF's pores and simultaneously ensuring good contact, making the employment of the carbon bridge redundant. The addition of Pd nanoparticles indeed increases the ambient-temperature hydrogen uptake of the framework, but this is found to be solely due to palladium hydride formation. In addition, we show that the hydrogen atoms do not chemisorb on the host framework, which excludes the possibility of hydrogen spillover.

In the present study, a series of benzothiazol derivatives 3a-l containing pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine moiety at the second position were synthesized and characterized by analytical and spectral data. The compounds were tested for their in vitro antimicrobial activity. Compounds 1-(1,3-benzothiazol-2- yl)-3-methyl-4-phenyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine (3a), 1- (1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)-4-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-methyl-1H-pyrazolo[ 3,4-d]pyrimidine (3d) and 1-(1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)- 3-methyl-4-substituted phenyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidines (3h-j) showed significant inhibitory activity against P. aeruginosa whereas compounds 1-(1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)-4- (2-chlorophenyl)-3-methyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine (3b), 2-[1-(1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)-3-methyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidin- 4-yl]phenol (3e), 1-(1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)-4-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)- 3-methyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine (3h), 4-[1-(1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)-3-methyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyri midin-4-yl]-N,N-dimethylaniline (3j) and 1-(1,3-benzothiazol- 2-yl)-3-methyl-4-[2-phenylvinyl]-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine (3k) were found to be active against C. albicans. Some of these synthesized compounds were evaluated for their in vivo acute toxicity, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and ulcerogenic actions. The tested compound 4-[1-(1,3-benzothiazol- 2-yl)-3-methyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidin-4-yl]-N, N-dimethylaniline (3j) exhibited maximum analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities. Compounds 1-(1,3-benzothiazol- -2-yl)-3-methyl-4-(3-nitrophenyl)-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine (3i) and 3j showed a significant gastrointestinal protection compared to the standard drug diclofenac sodium.

The broad application of itaconic acid in synthetic resins, fibers, plastics, rubbers, surfactants, and oil additives has resulted in an increased demand for this product. As an end step of biobased itaconic acid production, a suitable downstream recovery procedure using Aspergillus terreus as a study model was analyzed. Here we present preliminary work to integrate fungal fermentation with in-stream product recovery (ISPR) using pertraction for itaconic acid. Based on prior knowledge and an initial solvent screening, solvent extraction using 2-methyl tetrahydrofuran (2m-THF) was selected as the preferred technique for recovering itaconic acid.1,2 © Copyright 2013, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. 2013.