Challenges and principled responses to privacy protection from biometric technology in China

Biometric technology has transformed human biological characteristics into a new form of privacy, and the misuse of this technology poses challenges to protecting this new privacy. This article initially defines biometric technology and biometric characteristics, further demonstrating why biometric characteristics belong to personal privacy and how biometric technology poses challenges to its protection. Through analysis, this article argues that the essence of these challenges is the conflicts between the ethical principle of privacy protection and the ethical principle of maximizing social benefits. In order to address these challenges, it is necessary first to weigh the fundamental ethical principles. The two basic principles of privacy protection and maximizing social benefits are not mutual antagonism but hierarchy, and this hierarchy should be based on the principle of practical feasibility. That is, applying biometric technology should first meet the principle of practical feasibility and, on this premise, realize the principle of maximizing social benefits based on not infringing on the principle of privacy protection.

La tecnología biométrica ha transformado las características biológicas humanas en una nueva forma de privacidad, y el uso indebido de esta tecnología plantea desafíos a su protección. En este artículo se define inicialmente la tecnología biométrica y las características biométricas; se demuestra además por qué las características biométricas pertenecen a la privacidad personal y cómo la tecnología biométrica plantea retos para su protección. Este artículo argumenta que la esencia de estos retos es el conflicto entre el principio ético de protección de la privacidad y el de maximización de los beneficios sociales. Para abordar estos retos es necesario sopesar primero los principios éticos fundamentales. Los dos principios básicos de protección de la privacidad y maximización de los beneficios sociales no son antagónicos, sino jerárquicos, y esta jerarquía debe basarse en el principio de viabilidad práctica. Es decir, la aplicación de la tecnología biométrica debe cumplir primero el principio de viabilidad práctica y, a partir de esta premisa, realizar el principio de maximización de los beneficios sociales sobre la base de no infringir el principio de protección de la intimidad.

A tecnologia biométrica transformou as características biológicas humanas em uma nova forma de privacidade, e o mal uso dessa tecnologia apresenta desafios para proteger essa nova privacidade. Esse artigo inicialmente define tecnologia biométrica e características biométricas, demonstrando posteriormente por que características biométricas pertencem à privacidade pessoal e como tecnologia biométrica coloca desafios à sua proteção. Através de análise, esse artigo discute que a essência desses desafios é o conflito entre o princípio ético da proteção da privacidade e o princípio ético de maximizar benefícios sociais. De forma a visar esses desafios é necessário primeiro ponderar os princípios éticos fundamentais. Os dois princípios básicos de proteção da privacidade e de maximizar benefícios sociais não são mutuamente antagônicos mas hierárquicos, e essa hierarquia deve ser baseada no princípio da viabilidade prática. Isso é, aplicar tecnologia biométrica deve primeiro atender ao princípio da viabilidade prática e, nessa premissa, compreender o princípio de maximizar benefícios sociais com base em não infringir o princípio de proteção da privacidade.

Relatively anterior lens position in primary angle-closure glaucoma eyes with long axial length

Purpose: To evaluate the refractive status and ocular biometric parameters in primary angle?closure glaucoma (PACG) eyes with different axial lengths (ALs). Methods: In total, 742 Chinese PACG subjects with complete ophthalmic examinations were enrolled. The refractive status was categorized as myopia (spherical equivalent [SE] ??0.5 D), emmetropia (?0.5 D < SE < +0.5 D), and hyperopia (SE ?+0.5 D), whereas the AL was divided into short (AL <22.5 mm), regular (22.5 ? AL <23.5 mm), and long (AL ?23.5 mm). The refractive status and ocular biometric parameters were compared among different AL groups. Results: The mean AL of the PACG eyes was 22.53 ± 0.84 mm (range: 19.68–25.57 mm). The refractive status was significantly different among different AL groups (P < 0.001). Also, 92.6% of hyperopic PACG eyes showed AL <23.5 mm, and 19.0% of myopic PACG eyes showed AL ?23.5 mm. The SE showed significant differences among different AL groups only in the hyperopic subjects (P = 0.012). The AL was significantly longer in myopic eyes (P < 0.001). The PACG eyes with longer AL exhibited lower keratometry, longer central anterior chamber depth and corneal diameter, and lens position and relative lens position closer to the anterior (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Axial hyperopia was common in PACG eyes, and axial myopia was not uncommon. Relatively anterior lens position could explain the occurrence of PACG in the eyes with long AL.

Agreement study of anterior segment parameters measured by two kinds of ocular biometry based on imaging principle of Scheimpflug / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

AIM: To compare the differences and agreement of anterior segment biometric parameters of myopic patients measured by domestic Scansys and the imported Sirius based on the principle of Scheimpflug imaging technique.METHODS: In this case series study, 103 cases(103 eyes)that underwent pre-refractive surgery(including small incision lenticule extraction, femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy and implantable contact lens implantation)at Aier Excellent Eye Hospital from May 2022 to October 2022 were recruited. Preoperative keratometry(Km), central corneal thickness(CCT), anterior chamber depth(ACDEndo.), anterior chamber angle(ACA), anterior chamber volume(ACV), white to white(WTW)of patients were recorded.RESULTS: The results of Km, CCT, ACA, and WTW measured by Scansys and Sirius were 42.88(41.54, 44.60)and 42.98(41.56, 44.52)D,(541.52±29.08)and(549.55±29.62)μm, 42.70°±2.67° and 46.63°±5.13°, 12.10±0.60 and 11.98±0.47 mm, respectively, showing the difference was statistically significant(all P&#x003C;0.01). The ACV measured by Scansys and Sirius was 194.26±31.06 and 191.47±25.65 mm3, and ACDEndo. was 3.40(3.17, 3.57)and 3.43(3.19, 3.56)mm, with no statistically significant difference(all P&#x003E;0.05). The range of Km, CCT, ACA, ACDEndo., ACV and WTW values measured by the two instruments was small, with an average difference close to zero, and the points percentage of 95% limits of agreement(LoA)was &#x003C;5%, which is of good consistency.CONCLUSIONS: Scansys and Sirius have small differences and good agreement in the parameters, which can be replaced by each other in clinical practice. Scansys could theoretically be used to extrapolate the implantable contact lens model or could be a new option for anterior segment parameter measurements.

Morphometric Analysis of Human Fetus and Fetal Pancreas in Different Gestational Age Groups

Introduction: Fetal biometric parameters are very often utilized for calculating gestational age. The pancreas is a gland with dual functions in our body – exocrine and endocrine, with the latter component being very often discussed in the context of diabetes mellitus. Through evaluation of variations in morphometry in relation to different gestational ages, the research intends to draw attention to various associated developmental correlations that were not mentioned in previous studies. MaterialsandMethods: The current research was carried out on 30 fetuses after obtaining due approval from Institute’s Ethical Committee. Fetuses were divided into different gestational age groups and morphometric parameters such as crown‑rump length, crown heel length, head circumference, abdomen circumference, chest circumference, hand length, and Foot Length (FL) were noted by measuring with nylon thread in centimetres. Fetal pancreases were removed after stepwise dissection and pancreatic weight along with length and thickness was measured by Vernier calipers. All the parameters were then compared within different gestational age groups. Results: All the parameters and the age group of fetuses were positively correlated and showed statistical significance.Conclusion: The study would add substantial knowledge in the areas of pancreatic regeneration, surgical pancreatectomy, and treatment protocols for diabetes mellitus and pancreatic cancer. Through evaluation of variations in morphometry in relation to different gestational ages, the research intends to draw attention to various associated developmental correlations

Comparison of uveal parameters between acute primary angle-closure eyes and fellow eyes in South Indian population

Purpose: To analyze the ocular biometric parameters of eyes with acute primary angle closure (APAC) as compared to fellow eyes. Methods: A cross?sectional study was conducted on 27 patients presenting with recent onset APAC to a tertiary eye institute in India. Anterior and posterior ocular biometric parameters were measured simultaneously by anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS?OCT), A?scan, ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM), and B?mode ultrasonogram (USG). The parameters measured were anterior chamber depth (ACD), anterior chamber angle (ACA), angle opening distance (AOD500, AOD750), lens vault (LV), axial length (AL), ciliary body thickness maximum (CBTmax) and at the point of scleral spur (CBT0), anterior placement of the ciliary body (APCB), and retinochoroidal thickness (RCS). Results: Mean age � SD of patients with APAC was 55.66 � 7.2 years with female preponderance (21:6 patients). Mean presenting IOP � SD of the affected eye and fellow eye were 54.74 � 11.67 mm Hg and 18.7 � 11.67 mm Hg, respectively. Eyes with APAC had statistically significant narrower anterior ocular biometric parameters, higher LV, decreased ciliary body thickness, more APCB, and longer AL than the fellow eyes. CBTmax is the only variable that had significance (? = ?0.421,95% CI: ?0.806 to ? 0.035, P = 0.034) in the univariate analysis with RCS thickness in APAC eyes. Further, there was a correlation between CBT0 and APCB with CBTmax both in univariate (? = 0.894, P < 0.0001 and ? = ?0.351, P = 0.039) and multivariable analysis (? = 0.911, P < 0.0001 and ? = ?0.416, P = 0.016). Conclusion: Compared to the fellow eyes, APAC eyes had different ocular biometric parameters. In addition to known biometric parameters associated with pupillary block (narrower anterior biometric parameters?ACA, ACD, and AOD), our study found multiple nonpupillary block factors such as higher lens vault and thinner and more anteriorly placed ciliary body to be associated with APAC.

Individual Identification in Facial Appearance Biometrics Based on Macroscopical Comparison / 法医学杂志

Individual identification is one of the research hotspots in the practice of forensic science, and the judgment is usually built on the comparison of the unique biological characteristics of the individual, such as fingerprints, iris and DNA. With the dramatic increase in the number of cases related to video image investigations, there is an increasing need for the technology to identify individuals based on the macroscopic comparison of facial appearance biometrics. At present, with the introduction of computer three-dimensional (3D) modeling and 3D superimposition comparison technology, considerable progress has been made in individual identification methods based on macroscopic comparison of facial appearance biometrics. This paper reviews individual facial appearance biometric methods based on macroscopical comparison, comprehensively analyzes the advantages and limitations of different methods, and puts forward recommendations and prospects for subsequent research.

Huellas dactilares: origen, usos y desafíos que genera la incapacidad para su registro / Fingerprints: origin, uses and challenges in the face of its verification failure

Considerando que las huellas dactilares son impresiones de las crestas epidérmicas de los dedos con un patrón único, irrepetible y permanente, estas son la base del método biométrico más empleado en la actualidad. Entre sus diversos usos destaca la identificación para múltiples actividades como acceder al trabajo o a teléfonos celulares, la operación de cuentas bancarias, las investigaciones criminales, etcétera. La ausencia o deterioro de las crestas epidérmicas, denominada adermatoglifia, impide la identificación por biometría dactilar. La adermatoglifia se origina por múltiples causas, incluyendo las enfermedades dermatológicas, lesiones traumáticas de los dedos, denervación, envejecimiento, quimioterapia, entre otras. Abordamos brevemente el origen, usos y sistemas para el registro de las huellas dactilares. El objetivo principal es enfatizar la existencia de personas con incapacidad para registrar sus huellas, una condición relevante por el riesgo potencial de discriminación, especialmente cuando el registro de las huellas es obligatorio.

Considering that fingerprints are impressions of the epidermal ridges of the fingers with a unique, unrepeatable, and permanent pattern, they are the basis of the biometric identification method most used today. Among its various uses stand out identification for multiple activities such as authentication to access work and cell phones, operation of bank accounts, criminal investigations, etc. The absence or deterioration of the epidermal ridges, called adermatoglyphia, prevents identification by finger biometrics. Adermatoglyphia originates from multiple causes, including several skin diseases, traumatic injuries of the fingers, denervation, aging, chemotherapy, among others. The origin, uses, and systems for fingerprints verification are briefly addressed here. The main objective is to emphasize the existence of people with fingerprint verification failure, a relevant condition due to the potential risk of discrimination, especially when fingerprint verification is mandatory.

Mediciones biométricas en pacientes miopes con cirugía fotoablativa previa / Biometric measurements in myopic patients with previous photoablative surgery

Objetivo: Comparar las mediciones biométricas realizadas con el IOL Master 700 y el Pentacam AXL en pacientes miopes con cirugía fotoablativa previa. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal en 103 ojos de 103 pacientes miopes con cirugía fotoablativa previa, atendidos en el período de enero 2019 a enero 2020, en el Instituto Cubano de Oftalmología "Ramón Pando Ferrer". Las variables estudiadas fueron: edad, sexo, equivalente esférico y características biométricas posoperatorias (longitud axial, profundidad de la cámara anterior y queratometrías), así como su relación, aportadas automáticamente por el IOL master 700 y el pentacam AXL para evitar los factores dependientes del operador, tres meses después de la cirugía. El análisis estadístico se realizó con la prueba t para datos pareados, utilizando una significación del 95 por ciento. Resultados: La edad promedio fue de 25,72 ± 4,26 años. Se analizaron 53 ojos derechos y 50 izquierdos, todos tratados con láser de superficie. El equivalente esférico medio fue de -0,06 ± 0,34 dioptrías y el tiempo entre la cirugía y los exámenes fue de 6,32 ± 3,56 meses. No hubo diferencia estadísticamente significativa (p > 0,05) entre la longitud axial y la profundidad de la cámara anterior; mientras que sí la hubo (p < 0,01) con las queratometrías obtenidas con el IOL Master 700, en comparación con los del pentacam AXL. Conclusión: En pacientes miopes con cirugía fotoablativa previa, el IOL Master 700 y el pentacam AXL proveen mediciones biométricas similares, como la longitud axial y la profundidad de la cámara anterior, no así con la queratometría, la cual es diferente(AU)

Objective: Compare the biometric measurements taken with IOL Master 700 and Pentacam AXL in myopic patients with previous photoablative surgery. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted of 103 eyes of 103 myopic patients undergoing photoablative surgery at Ramón Pando Ferrer Cuban Institute of Ophthalmology from January 2019 to January 2020. The variables analyzed were age, sex, spherical equivalent and preoperative biometric characteristics (axial length, anterior chamber depth and keratometries) and the relationship to one another, automatically supplied by IOL Master 700 and Pentacam AXL to avoid operator-dependent factors. The analysis was performed three months after surgery. Statistical analysis was based on the paired Student's t-test with a significance level of 95 percent. Results: Mean age was 25.72 ± 4.26 years. Fifty-three right eyes and 50 left eyes were studied, all of them treated with surface laser. Mean spherical equivalent was -0.06 ± 0.34 diopters; the time elapsed between surgery and the tests was 6.32 ± 3.56 months. No statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) were found between axial length and anterior chamber depth, but statistically significant differences (p < 0.01) were observed between the keratometries obtained with IOL Master 700 and Pentacam AXL. Conclusion: IOL Master 700 and Pentacam AXL provide similar biometric measurements for axial length and anterior chamber depth in myopic patients with previous photoablative surgery, but keratometric measurements are different(AU)

Producción científica sobre ciencias biomédicas en la provincia de Santiago de Cuba / Scientific production about biomedical sciences in the province of Santiago de Cuba

El estudio de la producción científica en salud en Cuba es un interés permanente para todos los especialistas. Con el objetivo de caracterizar la producción científica de las Ciencias Biomédicas en la provincia de Santiago de Cuba se realizó un estudio bibliométrico en la base de datos SCOPUS durante el período 1920 a 2018. Se emplearon estrategias de búsqueda y variables relacionadas con la productividad científica; se cuantificó la productividad de los autores a través del índice de Lotka; se recuperaron 919 artículos con un total de 2 484 autores y se identificó un alto porcentaje de pequeños productores. La institución con mayor aporte a la producción científica en salud fue la Universidad de Oriente. El Hospital Provincial Saturnino Lora sobresale con los mayores niveles de producción científica en el sector de la salud; el año más productivo fue el 2013 y los autores más prolíficos fueron Alicia Pons-Porrata, Zenén Fernández Rodríguez y Ricardo Hodelín Tablada. El análisis de los aspectos importantes de la producción científica permitió caracterizar la actividad investigadora y su evolución a lo largo del tiempo. Son bajos los índices de producción científica de los profesionales de la Salud en Santiago de Cuba en comparación con otras instituciones. Se advierte la necesidad de aumentar las colaboraciones con investigadores a nivel internacional y la necesidad de tomar decisiones con vistas a elevar la productividad y la visibilidad de los autores, y se sugiere que los autores e instituciones mantengan una firma única para sus publicaciones(AU)

The study of health scientific production in Cuba is a field of permanent interest for all specialists. A bibliometric study covering the period 1920-2018 was conducted in the database Scopus to characterize biomedical scientific production in the province of Santiago de Cuba. Use was made of search strategies and variables related to scientific productivity. Authors' productivity was quantified with Lotka's index. A total 919 papers were retrieved published by 2 484 authors. A high percentage of small producers was identified. The University of Oriente was the institution contributing the largest health scientific production. Saturnino Lora Provincial Hospital achieved the highest scientific production levels in the health sector. The most productive year was 2013, and the most prolific authors were Alicia Pons-Porrata, Zenén Fernández Rodríguez and Ricardo Hodelín Tablada. Analysis of important aspects of scientific production made it possible to characterize research activity and its evolution over time. Scientific production rates are low among Santiago de Cuba health professionals in comparison with other institutions. Evidence was found of the need to increase collaboration with international researchers and to take decisions aimed at enhancing the productivity and visibility of authors. It is suggested that authors and institutions maintain a single signature for their publications(AU)

Comparación entre las mediciones biométricas del IOL Master 500 y el Pentacam AXL en la biometría ocular / Comparison of biometric measurements taken with IOL Master 500 and Pentacam AXL for ocular biometry

Objetivo: Comparar las mediciones biométricas realizadas con el IOL Master 500 y el Pentacam AXL. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal en 99 ojos de 99 pacientes miopes con criterio de cirugía fotoablativa, atendidos en el período de enero del año 2019 a enero de 2020, en el Servicio de Cirugía Refractiva del Instituto Cubano de Oftalmología "Ramón Pando Ferrer". Las variables estudiadas fueron edad, sexo, equivalente esférico y características biométricas preoperatorias (longitud axial, profundidad de la cámara anterior y queratometrías), así como su relación, aportadas automáticamente por el IOL Master 500 y el Pentacam AXL para evitar los factores dependientes del operador. El análisis estadístico se realizó con la Prueba t para datos pareados, utilizando una significación del 95 por ciento. Una diferencia con un valor de p < 0,05 fue considerado estadísticamente significativo. Resultados: El 60,61 por ciento de los pacientes eran de sexo femenino y el 39,39 por ciento del masculino, con una edad promedio de 25,67 ± 4,30 años. Se analizaron 51 ojos derechos y 48 izquierdos. El equivalente esférico medio fue de -3,30 ± 1,53 dioptrías. No hubo diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre los valores biométricos (longitud axial, profundidad de la cámara anterior y queratometrías) obtenidos con el IOL Master 500, en comparación con los del Pentacam-AXL (p > 0,05). Conclusión: Las mediciones biométricas (longitud axial, profundidad de la cámara anterior y queratometrías) obtenidas con el IOL Master 500 y el Pentacam-AXL son similares(AU)

Objective: Compare biometric measurements taken with IOL Master 500 and Pentacam AXL. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted of 99 eyes of 99 myopic patients with indication of photoablative surgery attending the Refractive Surgery Service at Ramón Pando Ferrer Cuban Institute of Ophthalmology from January 2019 to January 2020. The variables analyzed were age, sex, spherical equivalent and preoperative biometric characteristics (axial length, anterior chamber depth and keratometries) and the relationship to one another, automatically supplied by IOL Master 500 and Pentacam AXL to avoid operator-dependent factors. Statistical analysis was based on the paired T-test with a significance level of 95%. A difference with a p-value < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: Of the patients studied, 60.61 percent were female and 39.39 percent were male; mean age was 25.67± 4.30 years. A total 51 right eyes and 48 left eyes were analyzed. Mean spherical equivalent was -3.30 ± 1.53 diopters. No statistically significant difference was found between the biometric values (axial length, anterior chamber depth and keratometries) obtained with IOL Master 500 versus Pentacam AXL (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Similar biometric measurements (axial length, anterior chamber depth and keratometries) are obtained with IOL Master 500 and Pentacam AXL(AU)

Repeatability of IOL Master 700 in ocular biometrics and axial length detection rate in cataract eyes / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

@#AIM: To evaluate the repeatability of a swept-source optical coherence tomography(SS-OCT)based biometer-IOL Master 700 in ocular biometrics in cataract eyes, and to investigate its agreement with a partially coherent optical interference based biometer-IOL Master 500. This study was also designed to compare the detection rate of the axial length(AL)measured by the two biometers. <p>METHODS:A total of 225 eyes of 133 cataract patients were included in this cross-sectional study from July to September 2018. Ocular biometric parameters including AL, keratometry(K), anterior chamber depth(ACD), lens thickness(LT), central corneal thickness(CCT)and white to white(WTW)were measured for each participant by both IOL Master 700 and IOL Master 500. <p>RESULTS: The IOL Master 700 measured <i>S_w</i> of AL, K_m, K₁, K₂, ACD, LT, CCT, WTW in cataract patients were 0.027mm, 0.112D, 0.148D, 0.162D, 0.015mm, 0.010mm, 2.355μm and 0.134mm, <i>CoV</i> was 0.115%-1.162%, <i>ICC</i>≥0.923, the maximum <i>ICC</i> of AL is 1.000, and all measurements had high repeatability. The AL measured by IOL Master 700 and IOL Master 500 were(23.805±2.162)mm and(23.782±2.162)mm respectively, the difference was statistically significant(<i>t</i>=33.645, <i>P</i><0.001). However, the 95% <i>LoA</i> was 0.003mm-0.043mm, and the AL measured by the two biometers was significantly correlated(<i>r</i>=1.000, <i>P</i><0.001)with good agreement. The AL detection rates were 93.8%(211/225)for IOL Master 700 and 87.6%(197/225)for IOL Master 500, the difference was statistically significant(χ²=5.147, <i>P</i>=0.023).<p>CONCLUSION: IOL Master 700 demonstrates excellent repeatability in ocular biometric measurements including AL, K_m, K₁, K₂, ACD, LT, CCT and WTW for cataract patients, especially in AL measurement. IOL Master 700 is in good agreement with IOL Master 500 in measuring AL, however the IOL Master 700 has a higher detection rate for AL in patients with severe opacity and subcapsular opacity in their lens.

Advances of IOL Master 700 in cataract / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

@#In recent years, ocular biometers based on swept-source optical coherence tomography(SS-OCT)technology have emerged in ophthalmic practice. Compared with the earlier ocular biometers such as the partially coherent interference(PCI)based ones, the SS-OCT based devices have a higher signal-to-noise ratio, greater swept light wavelength, better tissue penetration, faster scanning speed, and better axial length(AL)detection rate for cataract patients. This review aims to summarize the advances of a widely used SS-OCT based device-IOL Master 700 in cataract.

Ocular biometric measurements and central corneal thickness in African pediatric population / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

@#AIM: To determine the ocular biometric measurements and central corneal thickness(CCT)in Nigerian children so as to have a reference database.<p>METHODS:A hospital-based observational study of a cross-section of children seen consecutively between November 2017 and January 2018. The socio-demographic data of patients, visual acuity(VA)was assessed with LogMAR charts and Lea charts according to age group. Examination under anesthesia(EUA)was carried out for children eight years and below. Anterior and posterior segments examination through dilated pupil were done. Corneal diameters(CD)were assessed using calipers. Intraocular pressures(IOP)were examined using hand held tonometer, CCT and axial length(AL)were measured using the ultrasonic pachymeter. Cycloplegic refraction was carried out after clinical examination. Data were entered into and analysed using SPSS version 17 to generate results through descriptive statistics. Frequencies and cross tabulations of variables were done(<i>P</i><0.05).<p>RESULTS:Sixty-six children with 132 eyes, of ages between 3-16(mean: 9.13±3.70)years were studied. Male with female ratio was 1:1.7. The modal age group range was 6-10 years(42.4%). Most of them were primary school students 36(54.5%). The predominant parents' occupation was traders/unskilled workers(51.6%)and the professionals/civil servants(30.3%). The mean right and left VA were 0.45±0.46 and 0.45±0.44(LogMAR)respectively. The mean right and left horizontal corneal diameters(HCD)were 10.5±1.6 mm and 10.37±1.45 mm respectively. The mean right and left vertical corneal diameters(VCD)were 9.7±1.2 mm and 9.7±1.3 mm respectively. The mean right and left CCT were 556.71±2.61 μm and 556.47±45.53 μm respectively. Myopia 23(34.8%), myopic astigmatism 18(27.3%)and simple astigmatism 16(24.2%)were the commonest types refractive error. No significant associations were observed between CCT and HCD(<i>P</i>=0.739), VA(<i>P</i>=0.058)and refractive error(<i>P</i>=0.199). However, CCT slightly significantly correlated with the age groups(<i>P</i>=0.055).<p>CONCLUSION: Mean values for CCT, IOP and CD are known for the first time in Nigerian children. No significant association was seen between CCT and VA, CD and refractive errors. Further studies are required to ascertain findings.

Analysis of implementation outcomes of quality improvement initiatives in Haiti: the fingerprint initiative / Análisis de los resultados de la puesta en práctica de iniciativas para la mejora de la calidad en Haití: la iniciativa de la huella dactilar / Análise dos resultados da implantação de iniciativas para melhoria da qualidade no Haiti: iniciativa de leitura da impressão digital

ABSTRACT Objective. To assess the process and outcomes of the implementation of an electronic fingerprint initiative as part of quality improvement in three health facilities in the Northern Department of Haiti, in terms of its acceptability, adoption, feasibility, fidelity, and sustainability. In Haiti, poor attendance of the healthcare workforce is a nationwide problem, closely related to the quality of care. Three health institutions have tried to implement an electronic fingerprint system to monitor and improve attendance. Methods. An exploratory and qualitative descriptive study of the implementation outcomes of the fingerprint initiative. It was based on semi-structured interviews and one group discussion using purposeful sampling techniques to recruit participants, and an open coding system and deductive approach to analyze the data using ATLAS.ti 8. Results. The fingerprint initiative was successfully implemented in a non-governmental organization supported health facility but, despite some planning, it was never implemented in the public health facilities. The acceptability of the implementation was high in the not-for-profit organization and low in the public settings, mostly in relation to the presence of champions and the leadership at each health facility. Conclusions. We recommend more involvement of the leadership of health facilities in the different phases of the implementation process in order to guarantee acceptability, adoption, fidelity and sustainabiliy. More research is needed to articulate this technology-driven initiative in the Haitian health system.

RESUMEN Objetivo. Evaluar el proceso y los resultados de la puesta en práctica de una iniciativa de digitalización de huellas dactilares como parte de la mejora de la calidad en tres establecimientos de salud del departamento Norte de Haití, en cuanto a su aceptabilidad, adopción, viabilidad, fidelidad y sostenibilidad. En Haití, el absentismo de los trabajadores de atención de salud es un problema nacional, estrechamente relacionado con la calidad de la atención. Tres instituciones de salud han tratado de poner en práctica un sistema de huellas dactilares digitalizadas para monitorear y mejorar la asistencia. Métodos. Se ha llevado a cabo un estudio descriptivo cualitativo y exploratorio de los resultados de la puesta en práctica de la iniciativa de la huella dactilar. Este estudio empleó entrevistas semiestructuradas y una discusión de grupo mediante técnicas de muestreo con fines específicos para reclutar a los participantes, y un sistema de codificación abierta y enfoque deductivo para analizar los datos con ATLAS.ti 8. Resultados. La iniciativa de la huella dactilar se llevó a cabo satisfactoriamente en un establecimiento de salud no gubernamental; sin embargo, a pesar de cierta planificación, no llegó a ponerse en práctica en establecimientos públicos de salud. La aceptabilidad de la implementación fue alta en las organizaciones sin fines de lucro y baja en los entornos públicos, principalmente en lo que respecta a la presencia de líderes y dirigentes en cada establecimiento de salud. Conclusiones. Recomendamos una mayor participación de la gerencia de los establecimientos de salud en las diferentes fases del proceso de ejecución para garantizar aceptabilidad, adopción, fidelidad y sostenibilidad. Se necesita investigación adicional para integrar esta iniciativa impulsada por la tecnología en el sistema de salud haitiano.

RESUMO Objetivo. Avaliar o processo e os resultados da implantação de uma iniciativa de controle de ponto eletrônico por biometria para melhoria da qualidade em três serviços de saúde no Departamento Norte do Haiti quanto à aceitabilidade, adoção, viabilidade, fidelidade e sustentabilidade. A baixa assiduidade no trabalho do pessoal da saúde é um problema em todo o país e está estreitamente relacionada à qualidade da atenção. Foi feita uma tentativa de implantar um sistema de ponto eletrônico por biometria em três instituições de saúde, para monitorar e aumentar a assiduidade no trabalho. Métodos. Estudo exploratório, descritivo e qualitativo dos resultados da implantação da iniciativa de ponto eletrônico por biometria. Os dados foram coletados em entrevistas semiestruturadas e em um grupo de discussão usando técnica de amostragem intencional para recrutar os participantes. A análise de dados foi realizada por codificação aberta e enfoque dedutivo com o uso do software ATLAS.ti 8. Resultados. A iniciativa de ponto eletrônico por biometria foi implantada com êxito em um serviço de saúde apoiado por uma organização não governamental. Porém, apesar do planejamento, ela nunca foi implantada nos serviços da rede pública. A aceitabilidade foi muito boa na entidade sem fins lucrativos, mas foi baixa na rede pública, sobretudo em relação à presença de apoiadores e dirigentes no local. Conclusões. Recomenda-se maior envolvimento dos dirigentes dos serviços de saúde nas diferentes fases do processo de implantação para garantir a aceitabilidade, adoção, fidelidade e sustentabilidade da iniciativa. Mais pesquisas são necessárias para estruturar esta iniciativa com uso de tecnologia no sistema de saúde do Haiti.

Predicción del peso y del rendimiento en canal en conejos Nueva Zelanda a partir de medidas corporales

RESUMEN Objetivo. Predecir del peso y el rendimiento en canal en conejos Nueva Zelanda blanco a partir de medidas corporales. Materiales y métodos. En 100 machos Nueva Zelanda (NZ) criados de forma comercial de 60±3 días, con ayuno de 12 horas, se tomó el peso vivo (PV) el largo de cuerpo dorsal (LC) y ventral (LV), perímetro del tórax (PT), largo de lomo (LL), ancho de lomo (AL), ancho de tórax (AT) ancho de cabeza (AC) largo de cabeza (LC), perímetro de muslo (PM), largo de muslo (LM), perímetro del brazo (PB) y largo del brazo (LB). Los conejos fueron sacrificados, pesadas sus canales calientes (PC). Se realizó estadística descriptiva y se estimó el rendimiento en canal caliente (RC). Se estableció una ecuación de regresión del PC y del RC, con el procedimiento "Stepwise Regression" y se estimaron los coeficientes de correlación entre las variables a partir de un análisis de componentes principales. Resultados. Las variables in vivo fueron homogéneas con coeficientes de variación menores de 20%. El RC fue 54.7±2.4%. La ecuación de regresión que mejor se ajustó al PC fue Y= 75.83+0.58PV-11.86LC (R2: 0.91; p<0.05) y al RC fue Y= 49.23+0.21LD+0.25PT-0.64AT-0.57LC (R2: 0.20; p<0.05). De determinaron cuatro componentes que explican el 69% de la variación. Las mediciones de cabeza, lomo y brazo fueron las de mayor aporte. La correlación más alta que se encontró con el PC fue el PV (r= 0.84; p<0.001). Conclusiones. El RC es similar a otros NZ de edad similar. Las mediciones biométricas predicen mejor el PC que el RC. Estos resultados se pueden utilizar en programas de mejoramiento genético animal.

ABSTRACT Objective. Predicting carcass weight and yield in New Zealand white rabbits from body measurements. Materials and methods. In 100 New Zealand (NZ) commercially reared males of 60±3 days, with a 12-hour fast, the live weight (BW) was taken, length the dorsal (LD) and ventral (LV) body length, chest circumference (CC), loin length (LL), loin width (LW), chest width (CW) head width (HW) head length (HL), thigh circumference (TC), thigh length (TL), arm circumference (AR) and arm length (AL). The rabbits were euthanized, their carcasses weighed (CAW). Descriptive statistics and carcass yield (CAY) were estimated. A regression equation of the CAW and the CAY was established with the "Stepwise Regression" procedure and the correlation coefficients between the variables were estimated from the principal component analysis. Results. Variables in vivo were homogeneous with coefficients of variation of less than 20%. The CAY was 54.7±2.4%. The regression equation that best fit the CAW was Yi = 75.83+0.58BW-11.86HL (R2: 0.91; p<0.05) and the CAY was Yi = 49.23+0.21LD+0.25CC-0.64CW-0.57HL (R2: 0.20; p<0.05). Four components were determined that explain 69% of the variation. Head, loin, and arm measurements were the most important. The highest correlation found with the CAW was the BW (r=0.84; p<0.001). Conclusions. The CAY is similar to other NZs of similar age. Measurements in the live animal better predict CAW than CAY. These results can be used in animal genetic improvement programs.

Study on the measurement formula of intraocular lens in primary hospitals of minority areas / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

@#AIM: To compare and study the differences of eyeball biometric measurements among Han, Hani and Yi nationality in Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture(Honghe Prefecture), and prediction accuracy of the intraocular lens(IOL)degree by SRK-T and Haigis formulas in the different eye axes, to provide further objective clinical evidence for the majority of basic-level hospitals and the blind prevention and treatment projects in minority areas.<p>METHODS: Selected 186 cases(200 eyes)cataract patients in our department, divided them into three groups according to different nations, get their eyeball biometric measurements(ocular axial length, anterior chamber depth and corneal curvature)by A-ultrasound combined with corneal curvature meter and corneal topography, and then compared the differences. According to the different eye axes, they were divided into three groups and then randomly divided into two groups. SRK-T and Haigis formulas were used to predict the IOL degree, and collected postoperative optometry results, calculated the absolute prediction error, then conducted statistical analysis. <p>RESULTS: There were no difference in the mean axial length, mean anterior chamber depth and mean corneal curvature(measured respectively by corneal topography and corneal keratometer)in the different ethnic groups(<i>P</i>>0.05), and the mean corneal curvature measured by the two methods had no difference(<i>P</i>>0.05). There were no difference of the mean corneal curvature measured by the two methods in the three axial eye groups(<i>P</i>>0.05)and in the same axial eye group(<i>P</i>>0.05). There were no difference in the absolute error of the two IOL measurement formulas in the three eye axis groups(<i>P</i>>0.05). The absolute error calculated by SRK-T formula for the short and the middle eye axis groups were smaller, while it calculated by Haigis formula for long eye axis group was smaller.<p>CONCLUSION: In our department, there are no statistical difference in the eye biometrics of Han, Yi and Hani nationality. Corneal curvature measured by corneal topography and corneal keratometer have no significant difference. SRK-T and Haigis formula both have high predictive value for IOL degree, SRK-T formula has smaller predictive error for patients which with short and middle eye axis, and Haigis formula has better predictive value for the long ones.

Health State, morphological characterization and biometric parameters in the mangrove crab Ucides cordatus Linnaeus, 1763 (Brachyura: Ocypodidae)

The crab Ucides cordatus is an important feature of mangroves in the North and Northeast of Brazil. In 2002 a large mortality was reported on this species in the Jaguaribe River Estuary. In order to investigate the possible causes specimens were collected monthly between May 2002 and December 2003 at five sites: Fortim (E1), Fortim (E2), Cumbe (E3) Aracati (E4) and Guajiru (E5). The mangrove structure and environmental parameters (salinity, pH, temperature and DO) were also evaluated. Water was collected for suspended solids analysis, BOD and nutrient levels. Salinity decreased in the rainy season, with no significant variation of pH and temperature. Dissolved oxygen levels had a mean of 5.7 mg L-1. Suspended solids increased at site E4, with BOD varying at E1 and E2 during the dry season. The same was observed at sites E1, E2 and E3 during the rainy season. Ammonia levels at E1 and E2 and phosphorus in all seasons, increased with rain events. Four lines of investigation were adopted: biometry, histology, hematology, and bioassay. There was no significant difference between animals in biometrics and histology showed no cellular alterations. However, hematology showed a significant difference between the E1 and E3 sites due to depletion in the number of hemocytes in E1, probably in response to environmental impacts. This can lead to poor immunity, leading to opportunistic pathogen infections such as viruses, bacteria and fungi. The bioassay showing no abnormal behavior or mortality. The structure the of mangrove was developed in all areas, except in E5 which served as a control site, with significant environmental stress with high levels of herbivorous growth (> 50%) and a salinity of around 50 ‰. It is believed that the mortality of the crabs was an occasional occurrence, probably due to toxin production by some fungal organism.

Latent relations between selected morphometric, physiological and biochemical parameters / Relaciones latentes entre parámetros morfométricos, fisiológicos y bioquímicos seleccionados

The main purpose of this study was to explore the latent relations of the selected morphometric, physiological and biochemical parameters. Thirty-six variables (12 morphometric, 9 physiological and 15 biochemical variables) were measured on 317 male-entities aged 17 - 35 y/o. The obtained data were analysed through the factor analysis of the first and second order. The statistical analyses were performed with the IBM SPSS Statistics software package, version 20. The factorization of the first order enabled extraction of 12 latent factors that explain 74.8 % of the total variance, while the factorization of the second order enabled extraction of five latent components that explain 51.39 % of the total variance. The final results of this study confirm the main hypothesis that there exist the numbers of latent variables that explain the latent structure of selected biometric measures. The nature of the extracted latent factors/ components in both orders of factorization is relatively clear, understandable, and easy to interpret. The higher projections of the manifest biometric variables on the extracted latent factors of the first and second order were accordingly with the nature of the measured variables. The results of this research might be considered as one step more in the holistic approach to the biometric measures.

El objetivo principal de este estudio fue explorar las relaciones latentes de parámetros morfométricos, fisiológicos y bioquímicos seleccionados. Treinta y seis variables (12 morfométricas, 9 fisiológicas y 15 bioquímicas) se midieron en 317 hombres de 17 a 35 años. Los datos obtenidos fueron analizados a través del análisis factorial de primer y segundo orden. Los análisis estadísticos se realizaron con el software IBM SPSS Statistics, versión 20. La factorización del primer orden permitió la extracción de 12 factores latentes que explican el 74,8 % de la varianza total, mientras que la factorización del segundo orden permitió la extracción de cinco componentes latentes que determinaron el 51,39 % de la varianza total. Los resultados finales de este estudio confirmaron la hipótesis principal de que existen números de variables latentes que explican la estructura latente de las medidas biométricas seleccionadas. La naturaleza de los factores/componentes latentes extraídos en ambos órdenes de factorización es relativamente clara, comprensible y fácil de interpretar. Las proyecciones superiores de las variables biométricas manifiestas en los factores latentes extraídos del primer y segundo orden correspondieron a la naturaleza de las variables medidas. Los resultados de esta investigación podrían considerarse como un paso más en el enfoque holístico de las medidas biométricas.

Genetic Divergence Studies in Ailanthus excelsa Using D2 Analysis

Aims: To estimate the genetic diversity studies among the biometric attributes of 30 progenies in Ailanthus excelsa Roxb. Place and Duration of Study: The study has conducted at Forest College and Research Institute, TNAU, Mettupalayam during 2015-2018. Methodology: The D2 statistics was adopted for the estimation of genetic divergence. Using D2 statistical results, the clustering of progenies was done. The progenies were grouped into different clusters using ‘GENERES’ statistical package on the basis of D2 values according to Tocher’s method as suggested by Rao. Results: The 30 progeny of Ailanthus excelsa has grouped into nine clusters and among the nine clusters, the cluster IV has ten progenies. The maximum intra cluster distance was exhibited by the cluster VIII followed by cluster IV. The maximum inter cluster distance was in cluster III which indicated the presence of wider genetic distance between Ailanthus excelsa progenies. Among the growth attributes, volume index contributed maximum percentage towards genetic divergence. Conclusion: The results of 30 progeny of Ailanthus excels showed the presence of wider genetic distance between Ailanthus excelsa progenies.

Biometric changes in Indian pediatric cataract and postoperative refractive status

Purpose: To prospectively evaluate the biometric changes in Indian pediatric cataract and postoperative refractive status. Methods: A total of 147 patients were recruited into three groups: age <6 months, age between 7 months and 18 months, and age between 19 and 60 months and prospectively observed for 6 months. Exclusion criteria were preterm birth, microphthalmia, microcornea, megalocornea, uveitis, glaucoma, and traumatic or complicated cataract. Axial length and keratometry, the primary outcome measures, were taken preoperatively under general anesthesia before surgery. These children were followed up for 6 months to look for refractive and biometric changes. T-test and linear regression with the logarithm of independent variables were done. Results: All unilateral cataractous eyes (n = 25) and randomly selected bilateral cases (n = 122) were included in the analysis, for a total of 147 eyes. Mean age was 17.163 ± 13.024 months; axial length growth was 0.21, 0.18, 0.06 mm/month, and keratometry decline was 0.083, 0.035, 0.001 D/month in age groups 0–6, 7–18, and 19–60 months, respectively. The visual acuity improved in log MAR from 1.020 to 0.745 at 6 months postoperatively. There was statistically significant (Spearman's correlation coefficient = –0.575, P < 0.001) between age and postoperative refraction. There were no intraocular lens (IOL)-related complications seen in the immediate postoperative period. Peripheral opacification was seen in 102 eyes and central opacification in 1 eye at a 6-month follow-up. Conclusion: Indian eyes have a lower rate of axial length growth and keratometry change in comparison with western eyes implying smaller undercorrection in emmetropic IOL power for Indian pediatric eyes to achieve a moderate amount of hyperopia.