bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcanalicular Laser-Assisted Dacryocystorhinostomy
Authors: Rosen N , Barak A , Rosner M
Published: April 2021

* BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Current techniques of laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy are mosdy endonasal. In this report, the authors describe their technique of laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy performed through the canaliculi and the surgical results they achieved.

* PATIENTS AND METHODS: Fourteen patients with nasolacrimal duct obstruction underwent transcanalicular laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy. The bony ostium was perforated using a fiber optic-transmitting, giant-pulse Nd: YAG laser, with an energy of 0.5 to 4 J per pulse. The total energy used to create an ostium was 18 to 34 J. A silicone tube was inserted through the canaliculi and the ostium into the nasal cavity and kept in place for 5 to 7 months. Patients were observed for 18 to 22 months.

* RESULTS: Nine of the 14 patients 64%) reported the disappearance of epiphora following surgery. In 3 patients, no relief of epiphora was obtained. In 1 patient the operation was not completed because of severe nasal bleeding. In another, tearing began 12 months after surgery (6 months after tube removal).

* CONCLUSIONS: Transcanalicular laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy is a potentially useful method for performing dacryocystorhinostomy. Technical modifications and improvements are needed to increase the success rate.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 1997;28:723-726.]
A Prospective Randomized Trial of Topical Soluble 0.1% Indomethacin Versus 0.1% Diclofenac Versus Placebo for the Control of Pain Following Excimer Laser Photorefractive Keratectomy
Authors: Assouline Michael , Renard Gilles , Arne Jean Louis , David Thierry , Lasmolles Christine , Malecaze François , Pouliquen Yves J M
Published: April 2021

* BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To compare the safety and efficacy of topical nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for the control of pain after excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy (PRX).

* PATIENTS AND METHODS: One hundred twenty informed patients were enrolled in a doublemasked, randomized, comparative study and assigned to either 0.1% indomethacin, 0.1% diclofenac, or placebo treatment. Subjective postoperative pain, symptoms, re-epithelialization rate, and systemic medications were monitored for 2 days following photoablation.

* RESULTS: Compared with the placebo, 0.1% indomethacin solution significantly reduced pain on the day of surgery (DO) (P < .05), whereas 0.1% diclofenac did not reach a significant level (P = .46). At D0, analgesic intake by the oral route was significantly greater in the placebo group (P < .05). Severe photophobia was significantly less frequent in the group treated with 0.1% indomethacin (P < .05). Corneal wound healing was significantly delayed in the patients treated with 0.1% diclofenac at D2 as compared with other groups (P= .04).

* CONCLUSION: Topical 0.1% indomethacin solution helps control the pain induced by excimer laser photoablation of the cornea without any detrimental effect to the corneal epithelial wound healing.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 1998;29:365-374.]
Optic Nerve Sheath Decompression in Pediatric Pseudotumor Cerebri
Authors: Lee Andrew G , Patrinely James R , Edmond Jane C
Published: April 2021

Abstract. The authors report a retrospective review of two cases of optic nerve sheath decompression in children (age younger than 16 years) and review the literature on the procedure. Two children underwent optic nerve sheath decompression. Optic disc edema resolved in both eyes after surgery. Some degree of visual improvement was obtained in one eye of each patient after surgery, but one eye was unchanged in one patient and one eye of the other patient had worsening of visual acuity after surgery. Neither patient suffered any systemic complications from the procedure. Of 12 patients in the literature (including these 2 patients), 66% experienced improved visual acuity following optic nerve sheath decompression, 33% had improvement in visual field, and 17% suffered worsening of visual acuity and visual field after surgery. Although optic nerve sheath decompression is a relatively safe and effective treatment for visual loss due to papilledema in adults, significant complications, including further visual loss, may occur. The experience with this procedure in children is limited, but retrospective data suggest that the safety and efficacy of the procedure may be comparable with that in adult patients. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 1998; 29:514-517.]
Diffuse Ocular Metastases as an Initial Sign of Metastatic Lung Cancer
Authors: Shields Jerry A , Shields Carol L , Eagle Ralph C , Gündüz Kaan , Lin Beelin
Published: April 2021

Abstract. A 68-year-old man with Jung carcinoma and no systemic metastasis presented with a blind, painful right eye. Examination showed no perception of light in the affected eye, elevated intraocular pressure, marked epibulbar hyperemia, and a white placoid mass in the conjunctiva nasally. Although a cataract precluded a clear view of the fundus, ultrasonography disclosed a total retinal detachment and a diffuse thickening of the choroid. Metastatic carcinoma was suspected clinically and the eye was enucleated because of severe, intractable pain. Pathologic examination demonstrated extensively necrotic metastatic adenocarcinoma involving the conjunctiva, peripheral cornea, sclera, iris, ciliary body, choroid, optic nerve, subarachnoid space, and orbit. Metastatic disease usually affects a singular ocular tissue, and it is highly unusual for such widespread ocular involvement to be the first sign of systemic metastasis from a primary neoplasm.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 1998;29:598-601.]
Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation With the Diode Laser for Neovascular Glaucoma
Authors: Oguri Akihiro , Takahashi Eriko , Tomita Goji , Yamamoto Tetsuya , Jikihara Shuichi , Kitazawa Yoshiaki
Published: April 2021

* BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To compare the outcome of transscleral cyclophotocoaguiation (TSCPC) using a diode laser with that of TSCPC using an Nd: YAG laser in neovascular glaucoma.

* PATIENTS AND METHODS: The surgical outcome of diode laser TSCPC was retrospectively compared with that of free-running mode Nd: YAG laser (FR-YAG) TSCPC and continuo us -wave mode Nd:YAG laser (CW-YAG) TSCPC. Twenty-one eyes of 2 1 patients in the diode laser group, 9 eyes of 9 patients in the FR-YAG group, and 9 eyes of 9 patients in the CW-YAG group were treated.

* RESULTS: The Kaplan-Meier life-table analysis revealed that the probability (mean ± standard error) of successful intraocular pressure control with diode laser TSCPC at 3 years postoperatively was 47-2 ± 12.6% per operation and 55.9 ± 16.3% per eye. Compared with the CW-YAG TSCPC, the diode laser TSCPC had a significantly higher probability of success throughout the follow-up period. Diode laser TSCPC was associated with improvement or preservation of visual acuity in 16 of 21 eyes (76%), and was the best of the three laser sources. Postoperative complications were minor following diode laser TSCPC.

* CONCLUSION: Diode laser TSCPC appears to be as effective as FR-YAG TSCPC and better than CWYAG TSCPC for treating neovascular glaucoma.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 1998;29:722-727.]
A Trial of Dorzolamide for Glaucoma
Authors: Gillies W E , Brooks A M V
Published: April 2021

* BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the effectiveness of dorzolamide changes when the drug is used under routine clinical conditions versus the more ideal conditions of a clinical trial.

* PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 118 eyes of 65 patients were assessed. Nine patients (15 eyes) received dorzolamide only, 41 patients (74 eyes) received dorzolamide as an "add-on" medication, and 15 patients (29 eyes) received dorzolamide as a substitute for an oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitor.

* RESULTS: At 1 month the intraocular pressure (IOP) had decreased from 23.5 to 19.9 mm Hg in the patients receiving dorzolamide only, from 18.6 to 16.4 mm Hg in the patients receiving dorzolamide as an add-on medication, and from 17.7 to 16.0 mm Hg in the patients receiving dorzolamide as a substitute for an oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. Similar decreases in IOP were present at 3 and 6 months. Local drug reactions occurred in 3 patients. Five patients stopped treatment because of severe symptoms of nausea and prostration.

* CONCLUSION: Under routine clinical conditions, dorzolamide was effective as a sole medication and as an add-on medication. It was at least as effective as oral acetazolamide. Local drug reactions sometimes occurred, as did systemic reactions.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 1998;29:728-732.]
Treatment of Total Hyphema With Relatively Low-Dose Tissue Plasminogen Activator
Authors: Kim Min-Ho , Koo Tae-Hyung , Sah Woo-Jin , Chung Sang-Moon
Published: April 2021

Abstract. The purpose of this study is to investigate the efficacy of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) in the treatment of total hyphema following ocular trauma or intraocular surgery Three patients (3 eyes) representing unresolved total hyphema for more than 5 days and uncontrolled high intraocular pressure received intracameral injections of 10 µg of recombinant tPA. Intracameral tPA injection resulted in complete resolution of hyphema in all 3 eyes. Resolution occurred mostly within 24 to 48 hours after injection. Possible side effects of tPA injection, such as increased intraocular pressure and corneal edema, were not observed. However, 1 eye had vitreous hemorrhage after repeated injections of tPA. Intracameral injection of tPA seems to be a safe and effective method for the treatment of unresolved total hyphema. However, repeated intracameral tPA injections may cause unwanted complications such as vitreous hemorrhage. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 1998;29:762-766.]
Endonasal Laser Dacryocystorhinostomy and External Dacryocystorhinostomy Outcome Profile in a General Ophthalmic Service Unit: A Comparative Retrospective Study
Authors: Ibrahim Hesham Ali , Batterbury Mark , Banhegyi George , McGalliard James
Published: April 2021

* PURPOSE: To evaluate the outcome profile of endonasal laser dacryocystorhinostomy (ENL-DCR) in comparison with external dacryocystorhinostomy (ENL-DCR) carried out as part of general ophthalmic service within the same center.

* METHODS: Patients who have undergone external or endonasal laser DCR in the authors institute with a minimum follow-up of 9 months and at least 3 months after removal of the tubes were invited to participate in this research. We used a questionnaire and a systematic clinical examination for detecting lacrimal passage patency and function. Patients were classified into categories: complete anatomical and physiological success; anatomical success with partial relief of symptoms; anatomical success with no relief of symptoms; anatomical failure.The endoscopic view of the ostium vertical location has been classified into four levels.

* RESULTS: One hundred and ten external-DCR and 53 Endonasal-DCR procedures were evaluated. Free communication (anatomical success) was achieved in 82% undergoing Ext-DCR and in 58% undergoing ENL-DCR. A significant number of patients continued to have symptoms in spite of a patent fistula (54% for Ext-DCR and 39% for ENLDCR). The site of the opening of the internal ostium was significantly related to the persistence of symptoms in spite of free communication (P < 0.001, chisquare test).

* CONCLUSION: In this series of patients undergoing DCR in a general ophthalmic unit, the standard Ext-DCR technique has a higher anatomical success rate than the endoscopic laser DCR but not necessarily with equivalent rate of relief of symptoms. An inferiorly placed ostium is more likely to result in complete relief of symptoms.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 2001;32:220-227]
Traumatic Lens Abscess with Chronic Endophthalmitis Successfully Treated with Pars Plana Lensectomy and Vitrectomy
Authors: Kaushik Sushmita , Ram Jagat , Dogra Mangat R , Narang Subina , Brar Gagandeep Singh , Gupta Amod
Published: April 2021

Abstract. Intralenticular abscess is a rare entity and has been infrequently reported after surgery, metastatic infection, or trauma. We report a case of post traumatic lens abscess with low-grade endophthalmitis following a penetrating eye injury with a splinter of wood. The patient was successfully treated with a pars plana lensectomy and vitrectomy. Despite thorough microbiological investigations, no causative organism could be isolated. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 2001;32:239-242]
Neodymium: YAG Capsulotomy Rates Following Phacoemulsification With Implantation of PMMA, Silicone, and Acrylic Intraocular Lenses
Authors: Ram Jagat , Kaushik Sushmita , Brar Gagandeep S , Gupta Amod
Published: April 2021

* BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Posterior capsular opacification (PCO) is the most common visually disabling sequela of modern cataract surgery. Methods of reducing its incidence include the development of newer surgical techniques and intraocular lens (IOL) materials and designs. The aim of this study was to compare the incidence and time interval of development of PCO, and the requirement of laser capsulotomy in patients implanted with a polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), silicone, or acrylic IOL.

* PATIENTS AND METHODS: The data of 340 consecutive patients who underwent phacoemulsification and implantation of a PMMA, silicone, or acrylic intraocular lens were analyzed. The aim of this study was to compare the incidence and time interval of development of PCO, and the requirement of laser capsulotomy in patients implanted with a PMMA, silicone, or acrylic IOL.

* RESULTS: The incidence of PCO was found to be significandy less in the acrylic group (6.5% as compared to 21.74% and 26.6% in the PMMA and silicone groups, respectively; P = 0.01297 and 0.0039). Most patients (65%) exhibiting PCO in the PMMA group developed it within the first six months. In the silicone group, development of PCO was delayed. In 60% of patients, it appeared 18 months after surgery. Neodymium:YAG capsulotomy was required in 45% and 60% of patients developing PCO in the PMMA and silicone groups, respectively, while it was required in only 1 of the 4 patients developing PCO in the acrylic group.

* CONCLUSION: This study indicates that implantation of an acrylic IOL helps reduce the incidence of PCO as well as the need for Nd: YAG capsulotomy. PMMA IOLs require Nd: YAG capsulotomy earlier in the postoperative period as compared to silicone IOLs.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 2001;32:375-382]
Preserved Human Amniotic Membrane Transplantation in the Treatment of Primary Pterygium
Authors: Tekin Nalan Fatma , Kaynak Suleyman , Saatci Ali Osman , Cingil Guray
Published: April 2021

* BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To assess the outcome of simple excision with preserved human amniotic membrane transplantation in the treatment of primary pterygium.

* PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 59 eyes with primary pterygium underwent surgical excision. In Group 1 , 28 eyes were treated with simple excision and preserved human amniotic membrane transplantation. In Group 2, 3 1 eyes were treated with bare sclera excision. These two groups were compared in recurrence, final appearance of the operation site, and complications. Patients were followed for at least 10 months.

* RESULTS: During a mean follow up of 14.9 months, we observed 3 (10.7%) recurrences in Group 1 and 20 (38.7%) recurrences in Group 2 (P:0.03). In Group 1, 20 (71.4%) eyes and 14 (45.2%) eyes in Group 2 had a satisfactory final operation site appearance (P:0.04l). No serious complication was observed in both groups.

* CONCLUSION: Simple excision and preserved human amniotic membrane transplantation appears to be a safe and effective way of treating primary pterygium because of the lack of serious complications and a relatively low rate of recurrence.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 2001;32:464-469]
Optical Coherence Tomography in the Diagnosis of Subclinical Serous Detachment of the Macula Secondary to a Choroidal Nevus
Authors: Muscat Sarah , Srinivasan Sathish , Sampat Venkatadri , Kemp Ewan , Parks Stuart , Keating David
Published: April 2021

Abstract. We present a case in which optical coherence tomography (OCT) aided in the diagnosis of subretinal fluid (SRF) secondary to a choroidal nevus. A patient with a raised lesion above the left optic disc and distorted central vision was referred to our unit because of suspected choroidal melanoma. Fundus fluorescein angiography and slit-lamp investigation did not indicate any areas of SRF; however, OCT showed serous detachment in the macular area. The lesion was treated with laser photocoagulation and, when reviewed at four weeks post-treatment, repeat OCT scans showed that the area of SRF had cleared. In this case OCT was able to detect a subclinical serous detachment in the macula. This may have important implications in the monitoring of patients with small suspicious lesions. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 2001;32:474-476]
Melanocytoma of the Choroid: Angiographic and Histopathologic Findings
Authors: Lafaut Bart A , Mietz Holger , Ortmann Monika , Bartz-Schmidt Karl Ulrich
Published: April 2021

Abstract. A juxtapapillary choroidal melanocytoma that was clinically confused with a choroidal melanoma is described. The clinical examination of a 40-year-old female patient included ultrasonography, fluorescein, and indocyanine green angiography. Histopathologic and immunohistochemical study of the enucleated eye resulted in the identification of a markedly pigmented, 3.8 mm elevated choroidal melanocytic tumor observed nasally to the disk. Ascan ultrasonography showed a high initial spike with a low to medium internal reflectivity with decreasing amplitude. On fluorescein angiography, the tumor was surrounded by a rim of retinal pigment epithelium depigmentation with a well-defined comet-tail. The lesion was hypofluorescent in the early phases of the indocyanine green angiogram, but from the late venous phase appeared ill-defined hyperfluorescence. Histopathologic study revealed a juxtapapillary choroidal melanocytoma The pigmented tumor cells stained positive for HMB45 and vimentin but negative for S100, GFAP, NSE, and MNF116. No tumor cells stained positive for the proliferation marker Ki67. These findings conclude that choroidal melanocytoma may mimick choroidal melanoma. Abnormalities on fluorescein angiography may be a clinical hint to suspect a pigmented tumor different from a choroidal melanoma. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 2002;33:158162]
Modified Grey Line Split With Anterior Lamellar Repositioning for Treatment of Cicatricial Lid Entropion
Authors: Sodhi Punita Kumari , Yadava Usha , Pandey Ratindra M , Mehta D K
Published: April 2021

Abstract. To determine the success rate of surgery of modified grey line split with anterior lamellar repositioning in patients with cicatricial lid entropion and to determine the risk factors of failure of the procedure, 40 patients (84 lids) with either lid involvement caused by cicatricial lid entropion of different etiologies were enrolled in this study. All the lids were operated on using the technique of modified grey line split and anterior lamellar repositioning. The success of the procedure was assessed by restoration of anatomical and physiological functioning of the lid without any residual symptom to the patient. Patients were examined initially at weekly intervals for 1 month and subsequently followed up at 2, 3, and 12 months following surgery. Among the various causes for cicatricial lid entropion, infectious etiology (72/84 lids) was found to be the most common one. A success rate of modified grey line split with anterior lamellar repositioning was 88.09% (74/84 lids). The underlying etiology of cicatricial lid entropion was the sole predictor of failure of surgery. Those with the etiology of infection had more than 6 times the odds of surgery failure (OR: 6.73; 95% CI: 2.79-16.73) as compared to a patient without infectious etiology. The role of other factors such as the age of the patient, degree of entropion, previous entropion surgery, the lid (upper or lower) involved, irregular lid margin, and defective lid closure were statistically insignificant. The underlying etiology of cicatricial lid entropion is the only risk factor that significantly influences the outcome of surgery with this technique. Otherwise, this procedure gives good results with fewer complications in patients with cicatricial lid entropion. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 2002;33:169-174]
Experimental Photodynamic Effects of Hypocrellin A on the Choriocapillaris
Authors: Khoobehi Bahram , Grinstead Robert , Passos Elke
Published: April 2021

* OBJECTIVE: To investigate the use of the photosensitizer hypocrellin A as a photodynamic agent to occlude the choriocapillaris in the eyes of pigmented rabbits.

* METHODS: Hypocrellin A (500 µg/kg) incorporated into liposomes was injected intravenously in pigmented rabbits. Ten to 15 minutes later, the retinas were irradiated with a dye laser (spot size, 2 mm; 1060 mW; 10-60 seconds; fluences 3.2 to 95.5 J/cm
p 2
) at two wavelengths: yellow (568 nm) and red (647 nm). Fluorescein angiography was performed 2 and 24 hours later. Parallel controls were irradiated without a photosensitizer. Histology was performed immediately after the 24-hour angiogram.

* RESULTS: A photodynamic response was observed 24 hours after PDT in eyes subjected to yellow laser irradiation at 20 mW for 60 seconds (fluence, 38.2 J/cm
p 2
) and at higher powers for lesser durations: 30 mW for 40 seconds (fluence, 38.2 J/cm
p 2
), 40 mW for 20 seconds (fluence, 25.4 J/cm
p 2
), and 50 and 60 mWfor 10 seconds (fluences, 15.9 and 19.1 J/cm
p 2
, respectively). Light microscopy showed occlusion of the choriocapillaris in all eyes with angiographic responses. Control eyes and eyes irradiated with the red laser revealed no angiographic or histologic changes.

* CONCLUSION: Photodynamic therapy using liposomal hypocrellin A and the yellow laser of 568 nm was effective in occluding the choriocapillaris of pigmented rabbits. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 2002;33:207-213]
Cryoextraction of Episcleral Miragel® Buckle Elements: A New Technique to Reduce Fragmentation
Authors: Le Rouic Jean-François , Bejjani Riad Antoine , Azan Frédéric , Bettembourg Olivier , Renard Gilles , Chauvaud Dominique
Published: April 2021

Abstract. A step-by-step description of a surgical technique for episcleral Miragel® buckle removal is reported. After dissection of the conjunctiva and the capsule surrounding the Miragel® element, the extremity of the buckle is pulled out with a cryoprobe. The removal of Miragel® episcleral buckle with the cryoprobe is a safe and effective technique with a low fragmentation rate and a reduction of the surgical risk related to the use of sharp forceps near a possibly weakened sclera. Procedure time seems also to be reduced. [Ophthalmol Surg Lasers 2002;33:237-239]
Surgical Management of Scleral Perforation After Pterygium Excision
Authors: Lin Hsin-Chiung , Ku Wan-Chen , Lin Ken-Kuo , Tsai Ray Jui-Fang
Published: April 2021

* OBJECTIVE: Scleral perforation is a rare complication occurring after pterygium excision often leading to scleral ulceration and loss of vision. Our purpose is to evaluate the long-term effectiveness and safety of tenonplasty and amniotic membrane transplantation in the management of scleral perforation after pterygium excision.

* PATIENTS AND METHODS: We performed a retrospective study on patients with scleral perforation after pterygium excision that underwent tenonplasty and amniotic membrane transplantation at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital from 1997 to 1999 and followed up for at least 12 months postoperatively.

* RESULTS: There were 6 patients, 1 male and 5 females ranging in ages from 46 to 71 years (mean, 63.3). The interval between pterygium excisions to scleral perforation ranged from 3 to 20 years. There were no recurrences during the follow-up period of 12 to 24 months (average, 18.3 months).

* CONCLUSIONS: Tenonplasty and amniotic membrane transplantation appears to be a relatively simple, safe, and effective method for treating scleral perforation after pterygium excision.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 2002;33:275-279]
Branch Retinal Artery Occlusion After Coil Embolization of a Paraclinoid Aneurysm
Authors: Choudhry Netan , Brucker Alexander J.
Published: April 2021

The authors report a case of a 48-year-old woman with a branch retinal artery occlusion after the neurosurgical coiling of a paraclinoid aneurysm. Clinical examination revealed a Hollenhorst plaque at the bifurcation of the inferior arcade and at a branch of the superior arcade with associated retinal whitening in the right eye. Follow-up examination at 8 months demonstrated improved visual acuity with near complete resolution of the retinal infarction but a persistent inferior Hollenhorst plaque. This case illustrates a retinal artery occlusion as a possible complication of paraclinoid aneurysmal coiling procedure.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2014;45:e26–e28.]
From dual to unified employment protection: Transition and steady state
Authors: Dolado Juan J. , Lalé Etienne , Siassi Nawid
Published: April 2021

Three features of real‐life reforms of dual employment protection legislation (EPL) systems are particularly hard to study through the lens of standard labor‐market search models: (i) the excess job turnover implied by dual EPL, (ii) the nonretroactive nature of EPL reforms, and (iii) the transition dynamics from dual to a unified EPL system. In this paper, we develop a computationally tractable model addressing these issues. Our main finding is that the welfare gains of reforming a dual EPL system are sizeable and achieved mostly through a decrease in turnover at short job tenures. This conclusion continues to hold in more general settings featuring wage rigidities, heterogeneity in productivity upon matching, and human capital accumulation. We also find substantial cross‐sectional heterogeneity in welfare effects along the transition to a unified EPL scheme. Given that the model is calibrated to data from Spain, often considered as the epitome of a labor market with dual EPL, our results should provide guidance for a wide range of reforms of dual EPL systems.
Implementation Example for the Structured Mathematics Teaching in Learning Environments During the Pandemic Period
Authors: Ünveren Bilgiç Eminer Nur
Published: April 2021

The purpose of the study is to provide exemplary work for academicians and field experts working in the field during the COVID-19 outbreak to effectively use technology in mathematics teaching environments in the distance education process and integrate it into teaching environments. Both the course content presented to prospective teachers and also the learning materials created by the prospective-teachers in line with the learning acquisitions of the course have become a part of the teaching process, and the teaching process has been structured by integrating both the course content and the prepared learning materials into the teaching process under the TPACK theory frame.
Financial Leasing and Operational Leasing
Authors: Kar Mikail
Published: April 2021

Leasing emerges as an important practice that meets the needs of companies that do not want to spend their equity on investment goods or whose equity is not sufficient to acquire investment goods. At this point, investors prefer financial leasing and operational leasing methods to provide economic benefits and profits from the use of goods, not ownership. This study discusses the financial leasing and operational leasing practices that are frequently used for financing and assesses the use of these methods in the tourism and hospitality markets and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, the study also makes recommendations by making predictions about changes and innovations that may occur after the pandemic crisis.
Second Home Tourism During COVID-19
Authors: Inanir Ali
Published: April 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic, which emerged in Wuhan, China in 2019 and then spread rapidly around the world, has also become a factor affecting the tourism industry in many aspects. Second homes, which meet a significant part of the accommodation within the tourism sector, have also been affected in different levels by this pandemic. This research, which attempts to reveal the extent of the impact, has examined the news that appeared in the media during the COVID-19 process in Turkey. As a result of the research, it has been revealed that 23 news reports have been made on different news sites related to the subject. Based on this news, it has been concluded that the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced the second home tourism in behavioral, environmental, and economic aspects. Some deductions have been made about the matter through these results.
Guidelines for Conducting a Critical Realist Case Study
Authors: Saxena Deepak
Published: April 2021

The case study is a widely used methodology among qualitative researchers irrespective of their philosophical orientation. While positivist and interpretive philosophies are the two most popular research philosophies across diverse research fields, critical realism offers a third alternative. Critical realism is a research philosophy that assumes the existence of an independent reality but also accepts that there may be varied interpretations of it due to a difference in context. Mechanisms are the theoretical building blocks of critical realism, and presence, absence, or interaction of certain mechanisms may result in the presence or absence of certain events. However, limited guidelines are available on conducting a critical realist case study. This chapter fills this gap by providing some practical guidelines on how a CR-based case study may be planned and executed. Practical guidelines are offered for framing the research question, data collection, writing a narrative, coding, and explanation building aligned with a critical realist philosophy.
Grounded Theory Approach and the Process of Men Taking Responsibility in Domestic Violence Interventions
Authors: Turhan Zeynep
Published: April 2021

Research on the effectiveness of domestic violence perpetrator interventions, where perpetrators are challenged to apply non-violent behavior and develop a healthy intimate relationship, is uneven and often inconsistent. Effective and accurate methodological tools and approaches can provide a better understanding of how the program providers offer successful practices to perpetrators of domestic violence. The goal of this chapter is to discuss the potential benefits of the grounded theory approach in a qualitative inquiry that might reduce methodological challenges in the examination of the process of men taking responsibility in interventions. This chapter contributes to the debate about the best way to examine perpetrators' behavioral change processes and identifies the benefits of implementing the grounded theory approach and reflexivity.
Simple Screen Locking Method Using Randomly Generated Number Grid on Image
Authors: Aris Hazleen , Ibrahim Zailani , Azman Ariff
Published: April 2021

Smartphones have become part and parcel of our daily life. Due to the more and more advanced features incorporated, its role has extended beyond calls and text messages, and it has become a place where important personal information is being stored. Thus, it needs to be protected from unauthorised users, which is usually achieved by using screen locking. However, improved screen locking security often compromises other aspects, such as usability and cost. In this article, a new screen locking method (SyS) that is both simple, secure from shoulder surf and smudge attacks, and not expensive to implement is presented. It uses an image and a chosen number to create the screen locking code. Evaluation results show that the SyS screen lock method scores best in terms of usability and security compared to the other three common screen locking methods, namely personal identification number or PIN, password, and pattern. It also performs well theoretically when compared against existing screen locking methods that aim at defending against similar attacks.
Mobile Cyber Information Leakage
Authors: Lv Hongbo , Zhou Zhiying
Published: April 2021

With the wide use of smartphones, mobile cyber has become an indispensable part of our lives. While smartphones are used almost every aspect of our lives, awareness of personal information protection is underdeveloped, and information leak has become one particular problem on mobile cyber. At the same time, personal information resources have become more valuable than ever. This chapter investigates users' attitudes toward cyber information leakage and methods to protect personal information. The software SPSS 19 was used to analysis the relationship among cyber environment, applicability and practicability of protection methods, economic cost, and overall evaluation (satisfaction). A suggestion that may promote personal information awareness and promote cyber security from technical, legal, and social aspects is also provided.
Mobile Phone Usage Patterns, Security Concerns, and Security Practices of Digital Generation
Authors: Zhang Sonya , Costa Saree
Published: April 2021

As the digital generations have grown up with high-tech gadgets and become avid users of mobile phones and apps, they are also exposed to increasing mobile security threats and vulnerability. In this paper the authors discuss the impact of recent mobile technology advancements on mobile threat environment and mobile security practices. They also conducted a survey to 262 college students to examine their mobile phone usage patterns, security concerns and practices. The results show that students use their mobile phone frequently for various productivity and entertainment purposes. They are generally aware of and concerned about mobile security, not only on losing the phone physically but also on data theft, web threat, and mobile malware. Students also practice security to some extend - most change PIN and passwords regularly, download their apps mostly from official app stores, and generally keep their OS and apps up-to-date. The authors also found significant correlations between mobile security practices and personal attributes, including major, gender, and technology aptitude.
Awareness, Knowledge, and Ability of Mobile Security Among Young Mobile Phone Users
Authors: Yan River
Published: April 2021

The research literature on awareness, knowledge, and ability of mobile security of young mobile phone users was reviewed in this article. The existing literature suggests that young mobile phone users are usually not aware of potential mobile security issues when using a mobile phone. Young mobile phone users are often found to lack the knowledge to detect mobile security problems and to defend themselves in the mobile world. Empirical evidence also exists in which some users do not have the mobile security ability to safely use their mobile phones. Overall, it is vital that young users improve their awareness, knowledge, and ability of mobile security so that they can effectively and enjoyably use their mobile phones.
Identity Authentication Security Management in Mobile Payment Systems
Authors: Wang Feng , Shan Ge Bao , Chen Yong , Zheng Xianrong , Wang Hong , Mingwei Sun , Haihua Li
Published: April 2021

Mobile payment is a new payment method offering users mobility, reachability, compatibility, and convenience. But mobile payment involves great uncertainty and risk given its electronic and wireless nature. Therefore, biometric authentication has been adopted widely in mobile payment in recent years. However, although technology requirements for secure mobile payment have been met, standards and consistent requirements of user authentication in mobile payment are not available. The flow management of user authentication in mobile payment is still at its early stage. Accordingly, this paper proposes an anonymous authentication and management flow for mobile payment to support secure transaction to prevent the disclosure of users' information and to reduce identity theft. The proposed management flow integrates transaction key generation, encryption and decryption, and matching to process users' personal information and biometric characteristics based on mobile equipment authentication carrier.
An Exploration of COVID-19 and Its Consideration as a Black Swan for the Construction Industry in Switzerland
Authors: Wildenauer Adrian August , Basl Josef
Published: April 2021

COVID-19 and its devastating yet unforeseeable effects affect the entire global economy value chain. Effects will be long-lasting and interfere with the way construction worked so far. Losses in the industry are expected to run into billions; spending on new buildings are predicted to decrease sharply and on a global long-term. COVID-19 is, depending on the viewpoint, either a “White Swan,” which is a probable event, causing massive consequences, or a “Black Swan,” which is additionally not foreseeable. The European Green Deal presented by the European Commission could serve as a new Marshall Plan to enable the long-awaited digitisation of the construction industry. A whole industry sector is called upon to undergo a digital empowerment within a very short period, for which other branches of industry have had years or even decades. Can this crisis serve as a spark for eventually starting the digitalisation of the construction industry?
BIM and M&E Systems for the Performance of Slum Upgrading Projects in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Abanda F. H. , Weda C. , Manjia M. B. , Pettang C.
Published: April 2021

Recent research reveals a surge in the number of slums in Sub-Saharan Africa with no sign of abating. Thus, the upgrading of slums to improve the living conditions of those who live in such environments is imperative. However, the performance of past slum upgrading projects has been quite contentious with many failing to meet their pre-defined objectives. This study investigates the influence of integrated BIM and M&E on the performance of slum upgrading projects in Sub-Saharan Africa. A questionnaire was used to gather data from 88 M&E and BIM experts. It emerged that on average 68.6% “Agreed and Strongly Agreed” that integrating both M&E and BIM can significantly improve the performance of slum upgrading projects compared to each when applied in isolation. Consequently, future studies should focus on developing an integrated BIM and M&E framework for monitoring slum upgrading projects.
Accuracy in Parallel Dynamic Task Allocation for Multi-Robot Systems Under Fuzzy Environment
Authors: Hamza Teggar , Mohamed Senouci , Fatima Debbat
Published: April 2021

Making the right decision is an essential requirement for the task allocation process in multi-robot systems functioning in dynamic environments. Robots are often forced to make these decisions individually without any communication between them. It may be due to reasons related to uncertainty in environments or related to tasks security, such as military applications. However, robot decisions must be precise in order to increase their efficiency to perform complex tasks. This paper presents a model in which a criterion of accuracy in tasks allocation process in an uncertain environment is defined. In order to increase this precision in such environments, the robots will formulate their observations in terms of the fuzzy linguistic variables. These variables are used by a fuzzy inference system to determine a utility value of a task that most effectively increases accuracy in task allocation. Simulation results on a complex task of goods transportation by mobile robots are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of this model.
The Role of National Culture Values and Trust in Online Sharing Hospitality Platform Acceptance
Authors: Zhang Cong , Srite Mark
Published: April 2021

The sharing economy, as an emerging business model, has grown greatly in the last decade. However, the acceptance rate of the sharing economy varies from country to country. Researchers have noted the importance of cultural values on technology acceptance in different countries. This study investigates the influence of national cultural values and trust on the acceptance of online sharing hospitality platforms by users in the US and China via a survey methodology. The four espoused national cultural dimensions of individualism/collectivism, uncertainty avoidance, masculinity/femininity, and power distance were measured at the individual level. Extending from the technology acceptance model (TAM), the research model integrates both direct and moderating effects of culture and trust. The two constructs of trust both have significant direct effects on intention to use. Uncertainty avoidance has a significant moderating effect. The results emphasize the importance of trust and cultural values, especially uncertainty avoidance in online hospitality platforms adoption.
How Does User Social Network Improve Innovation Outcomes on a Virtual Innovation Platform?
Authors: Qi Guijie , Hou Linke , Chen Jiali , Liang Yikai , Zhang Qi
Published: April 2021

Previous studies demonstrate that online interactive relations can help improve users' innovation outcomes, yet few studies have investigated how they influence user innovation. This paper builds a social network based on users' online interactive relations in one virtual innovation platform (LEGO Ideas). It characterizes the online social network relations from both quantity and quality dimensions and examines their influencing paths on users' innovation outcomes (i.e., emotional support and information flow). The empirical results show that both the quantity and quality of online relations impose positive effects on innovation, yet in different ways. The quantity of online relations could bring users more positive emotions, whereas the quality of online relations could bring them with more useful information and knowledge. By examining the influencing paths, this paper contributes to the literature on how online relations influence innovation outcomes as well as provides practical suggestions for innovation platforms.
Using Panel Data Analysis to Uncover Drivers of E-Participation Progress
Authors: Ifinedo Princely , Anwar Amar , Cho Danny
Published: April 2021

This paper examines and uncovers the key drivers of e-participation progress or growth over the years, globally and regionally. The authors used fixed-effects regression model on a panel data of variables gathered by reputable world organizations for an 8-year period – one of the largest examined to date. They tested a research model including GDP per capita, ICT infrastructure, secondary education enrolment, technological knowledge creation and outputs, and six governance indicators: voice and accountability, political stability, government effectiveness, regulatory quality, rule of law, and control of corruption. At the global level, the results indicate that e-participation progress is positively influenced by voice and accountability, GDP per capita, and ICT infrastructure. Analyses based upon six geographical regions of the world and countries' income-level classifications (i.e., low, low-middle, high-middle, high) show that determinants of e-participation progress vary by geographical and income-level contexts.
Fresh autologous stromal tissue fraction for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis related pain and disability
Authors: Santoprete Stefano , Marchetti Federica , Rubino Carlotta , Bedini Maria Grazie , Nasto Luigi Aurelio , Cipolloni Valerio , Pola Enrico
Published: April 2021

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a very common condition with multifactorial etiology leading to severe pain and disability in the adult population. Although KOA is considered a non-inflammatory arthritis, upregulation of inflammatory and catabolic pathways with increased production of proinflammatory cytokines leading to cartilage degradation and extracellular matrix degeneration has been reported. Intra-articular injection of fresh fat derived stromal vascular fraction (SVF) fraction has been proposed as a valid and alternative treatment for symptomatic KOA that guarantees mechanical support through viscosupplementation, anti-inflammatory, and anabolic action. We retrospectively reviewed a case series of 84 consecutive adult patients with KOA who underwent intra-articular injection of fresh fat derived SVF. Significant improvement in pain levels (NRS score decrease 3.5±1.1, p<0.001), WOMAC pain (-7.02±3.45 score change, p<0.001), WOMAC stiffness (-1.97±1.02, p<0.001), and ROM improvement (+17.13±5.22°, p<0.001). The only complication noted was knee joint swelling lasting for less than 7 days after the injection in 7% of the patients.
Children with Kawasaki disease or Kawasaki-like syndrome (MIS-C/PIMS) at the time of COVID-19: are they all the same? Case series and literature review
Authors: Marino A. , Varisco T. , Quattrocchi G. , Amoroso A. , Beltrami D. , Venturiello S. , Ripamonti A. , Villa A. , Andreotti M. , Ciuffreda M. , Cimaz R.
Published: April 2021

Since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak started, children have been considered marginally involved compared to adults, with a quite significant percentage of asymptomatic carriers. Very recently, an overwhelming inflammatory activation, which shares clinical similarities with Kawasaki disease (KD), has been described in children exposed to COVID-19. We report three KD-like cases that occurred during the pandemic of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in a highly affected area of Northern Italy. The clinical presentation was characterized by the presence of unremitting fever, diarrhea and elevated inflammatory markers. Case #1 and Case #2 occurred one week apart and shared other clinical features: laboratory tests confirmed COVID-19 exposure and high inflammatory activation with myocardial involvement. Case #3 followed a more typical pattern for KD. Interestingly, this patient showed lower levels of procalcitonin, C-reactive protein, D-dimers, and ferritin compared to the other two cases, whereas platelet count was higher. We hypothesize that SARS-CoV-2 might act in children as a trigger, either inducing a classical KD phenotype or causing a systemic inflammatory response leading to a severe KD-like phenotype, eventually characterized by myocardial impairment. We think that bringing these cases and their differences to the attention of the rheumatology community during the COVID-19 pandemic will be beneficial in order to highlight the importance of early diagnosis and to increase awareness of this new phenomenon.
Assessment and treatment of emotional-behavioral disorders after traumatic brain injury (Cranial Encephalic Trauma): literature review and psychological interventions
Authors: Valorio P. , Manfredi V. , Bassano A. , Cacciabue L. , Sterpone R. , Montobbio G.
Published: April 2021

Objectives: Traumatic brain injury (TCE) is trauma caused by an external force that can result in reduced consciousness. Following TCE, cognitive, emotional, and behavioral changes may occur as soon as the patient gradually begins to regain consciousness. The objective of this work is to provide a theoretical and applicative insight into the assessment and treatment tools for emotional and/or neurobehavioral aspects following TCE. Methodology: The current article is a recent update of the analysis of the literature and the possible effects on the implementation of clinical interventions, which takes its cue from initial theoretical reflections arising from the Field Training Group "Behavioral Disorders following Cranial Trauma" (2012- SSA Psychology), and from the clinical experience of the following years. Results: The work led to the description of the methodologies of assessment and intervention of these issues in the different stages of evolution of the disease. In addition, the final part describes the applicative experience of psychoeducational intervention groups, with the person with severe acquired brain injury. Conclusions: In TCE, the emotional-behavioral and disease awareness aspects play a decisive role in the rehabilitation process. It is, therefore, important to make appropriate assessments and intervene promptly to facilitate the rehabilitation process.