3 research outputs found
Objective quantification of image quality and optical scatter before and after Nd:YAG capsulotomy using a double-pass technique
Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate and compare the correlation between changes in vision and HD Analyzer dual-pass metrics versus changes in vision and conventional subjective slit lamp gradings in pseudophakic patients with posterior capsular opacity undergoing neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) capsulotomy.
Patients and Methods: High contrast (HC) and low contrast (LC) best spectacle-corrected distance visual acuity (BCVA) and HD Analyzer evaluation were prospectively performed on patients with mild-to-moderate posterior capsular opacification (PCO) and monofocal and accommodating intraocular lens implants. Differences between pre- and post-operative measurements were calculated, along with the correlation of HD Analyzer metrics and slit lamp grading to changes in visual acuity.
Results: Following Nd:YAG capsulotomy (n=29), there was statistically significant improvement in HC-BCVA and LC-BCVA, decrease in optical scatter, and corresponding improvement in Strehl ratio and HD Analyzer values at all contrast levels tested (pā¤0.05). Pearson test showed a high correlation between the improvement in HC-BCVA (r coefficient = 0.78) and LC-BCVA (r coefficient = 0.71) to the improvement in Objective Scatter Index (OSI). There was a higher correlation of change in HC-BCVA to pre-op OSI (r
Conclusion: The HD Analyzer provides objective measurements of forward light scatter (ie, light directed towards the retina) that can assist with both PCO grading and prediction of improvement of visual quality after YAG laser capsulotomy with higher accuracy than conventional slit lamp assessment based upon backscatter (ie, light traveling to the observer) in patients tested with monofocal and accommodating intraocular lens implants
Evaluating sustainable municipal solid waste management scenarios: A multicriteria decision making approach
Due to increasing urbanization and population growth, municipal solid waste management (MSWM) is a significant environmental concern in developing countries. Inadequate waste management systems lead to environmental pollution, health hazards, and economic losses. While considering the challenges and limitations, policymakers and authorities need to opt for such waste management scenarios that are environmentally friendly and resolve energy issues. Ten MSWM scenarios were developed and evaluated using seven different criteria. Four multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques, namely fuzzy logic, AHP, TOPSIS, and PROMETHEE II, were employed to rank the scenarios and identify the most appropriate option for solid waste management in Lahore. This study highlights that the optimal waste management approach comprises a composition of 54% anaerobic digestion, 37% gasification, and 9% landfill technologies. These percentages collectively represent the most suitable and effective strategies for the city's waste management needs. All the MCDM techniques consistently produce similar results. These scenarios have broader applicability across cities in Central Asia and beyond. The study's findings are aligned to promote sustainable and environmentally friendly MSWM practices. These findings endorse implementing strategies and measures aimed at fostering environmental sustainability and the responsible handling of waste, serving as a valuable reference for various regions
Exploring copyrolysis characteristics and thermokinetics of peach stone and bituminous coal blends
Abstract Copyrolysis, being an active area of research due to its synergistic impact in utilizing diverse fuel resources, including waste materials, like, peach stone (PS), has been the focal point for this study. PS, produced in vast quantities annually and typically intended for landscaping or insulation purposes, is being studied in combination with lowāgrade bituminous coal for energy utilization focusing on thermokinetics and synergistic aspects. Coalāpeach stone (CāPS) blends were formulated at different ratios and subjected to comprehensive characterization techniques, including ultimate analysis (CHNāS), gross calorific value (GCV), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA). The ultimate analysis revealed an enhancement in carbon and hydrogen content from 45.38% to 68.08% and from 3.89% to 6.96%, respectively. Additionally, a reduction in sulfur and nitrogen content from 0.54% to 0.11% and from 1.16% to 0.42%, respectively, was observed with an increase in the ratio of PS in the CāPS blends. The GCV of CāPS blends ranged from 20.75 to 26.01āMJākgā1. The pyrolysis conditions simulated in TGA are pivotal for evaluating thermokinetics and synergistic effects. The 60C:40PS blend shows a positive synergy index (SI) value of 0.0203% concerning total mass loss (MLT) indicating a favorable condition for bioāoil generation. CoatsāRedfern modelāfitting method reveals that the activation energy (Ea) of CāPS blends increases in Section II with the addition of PS, and conversely, it decreases in Section III. The Ea for 100PS and 100C was 106.76 and 45.85ākJāmolā1 through (D3) and (F1), respectively, which was improved through the optimal blend 60C:40PS with an Ea of 94.56 and 27.58ākJāmolā1 through (D3) and (F2), respectively. The values obtained from linear regression prove that the kinetic models are effective while the thermodynamic analysis indicates that the pyrolytic behavior of CāPS blends is characterized as endothermic, nonspontaneous, and capable of achieving thermodynamic equilibrium more rapidly