bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The existence and properties of the solution of a class of nonlinear differential equations with switching at variable times
Authors: Li Huanting , Peng Yunfei , Wu Kuilin
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we deal with the qualitative theory for a class of nonlinear differential equations with switching at variable times (SSVT), such as the existence and uniqueness of the solution, the continuous dependence and differentiability of the solution with respect to parameters and the stability. Firstly, we obtain the existence and uniqueness of a global solution by defining a reasonable solution (see Definition 2.1). Secondly, the continuous dependence and differentiability of the solution with respect to the initial state and the switching line are investigated. Finally, the global exponential stability of the system is discussed. Moreover, we give the necessary and sufficient conditions of SSVT just switching \begin{document}$ k\in \mathbb{N} $\end{document} times on bounded time intervals.
Necessary optimality conditions of a reaction-diffusion SIR model with ABC fractional derivatives
Authors: Ammi Moulay Rchid Sidi , Tahiri Mostafa , Torres Delfim F. M.
Published: December 2021

The main aim of the present work is to study and analyze a reaction-diffusion fractional version of the SIR epidemic mathematical model by means of the non-local and non-singular ABC fractional derivative operator with complete memory effects. Existence and uniqueness of solution for the proposed fractional model is proved. Existence of an optimal control is also established. Then, necessary optimality conditions are derived. As a consequence, a characterization of the optimal control is given. Lastly, numerical results are given with the aim to show the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy, which provides significant results using the AB fractional derivative operator in the Caputo sense, comparing it with the classical integer one. The results show the importance of choosing very well the fractional characterization of the order of the operators.
Motives of moduli spaces of rank $ 3 $ vector bundles and Higgs bundles on a curve
Authors: Fu Lie , Hoskins Victoria , Lehalleur Simon Pepin
Published: December 2021

We prove formulas for the rational Chow motives of moduli spaces of semistable vector bundles and Higgs bundles of rank $ 3 $ and coprime degree on a smooth projective curve. Our approach involves identifying criteria to lift identities in (a completion of) the Grothendieck group of effective Chow motives to isomorphisms in the category of Chow motives. For the Higgs moduli space, we use motivic Białynicki-Birula decompositions associated with a scaling action, together with the variation of stability and wall-crossing for moduli spaces of rank $ 2 $ pairs, which occur in the fixed locus of this action.
Genotypic and phenotypic variability of 22q11.2 microdeletions – an institutional experience
Authors: Manno Gabrielle C. ,   School of Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA, Segal Gabrielle S. , Yu Alexander , Xu Fangling , Ray Joseph W. , Cooney Erin , Britt Allison D. , Jain Sunil K. , Goldblum Randall M. , Robinson Sally S. , Dong Jianli ,   Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA,   Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
Published: December 2021

Patients with chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndromes classically present with variable cardiac defects, parathyroid and thyroid gland hypoplasia, immunodeficiency and velopharyngeal insufficiency, developmental delay, intellectual disability, cognitive impairment, and psychiatric disorders. New technologies including chromosome microarray have identified smaller deletions in the 22q11.2 region. An increasing number of studies have reported patients presenting with various features harboring smaller 22q11.2 deletions, suggesting a need to better elucidate 22q11.2 deletions and their phenotypic contributions so that clinicians may better guide prognosis for families. We identified 16 pediatric patients at our institution harboring various 22q11.2 deletions detected by chromosomal microarray and report their clinical presentations. Findings include various neurodevelopmental delays with the most common one being attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), one reported case of infant lethality, four cases of preterm birth, one case with dual diagnoses of 22q11.2 microdeletion and Down syndrome. We examined potential genotypic contributions of the deleted regions.
Una olvidada imitación del Quijote en la España de finales del XVIII: El tío Gil Mamuco (1789), de Francisco Vidal y Cabasés. Contextualización y análisis
Authors: Muñoz de Morales Galiana Javier
Published: December 2021

Cervantes fue uno de los principales referentes literarios para los novelistas de la España del XVIII. A partir de la publicación de Don Quijote de la Manchuela, aparecieron numerosas imitaciones del Quijote que tenían en común su carácter satírico, basado en la utilización de un personaje presuntamente «quijotesco» para ridiculizar un determinado tipo social. En 1789 se publicó, siguiendo esta tendencia, El tío Gil Mamuco, de Francisco Vidal y Cabasés, una novela actualmente olvidada y apenas referida por la crítica, ni siquiera por quienes se han ocupado del ámbito de la novela española dieciochesca. Dicho título, no obstante, destaca frente a otras imitaciones del Quijote porque pretende ser, aparte de una burla hacia las personas supersticiosas, un artefacto esencialmente lúdico, para lo cual juegan un papel fundamental la utilización de lo extraño y los lugares de indeterminación al sugerir la presencia de sustancias psicoactivas utilizadas por el protagonista.
De por qué la "Novela de la tía fingida" no es de Cervantes
Authors: Baras Escolá Alfredo
Published: December 2021

Desde que Isidoro Bosarte descubriera el manuscrito compuesto por el racionero Francisco Porras de la Cámara, al servicio del arzobispo de Sevilla don Fernando Niño de Guevara, ha llamado la atención una Novela de la tía fingida anónima contenida en la miscelánea. García de Arrieta la publicó por vez primera atribuyéndola a Cervantes. Hasta la fecha la crítica ha mostrado tres opiniones sobre la autoría: hay quien la defiende a ultranza, quien la niega con no menor convicción y quien se abstiene de tomar partido. Analizamos las coincidencias lingüísticas halladas por seis cervantistas (Julián Apraiz, Adolfo Bonilla y San Martín, José Toribio Medina, José Luis Madrigal, Alfredo Rodríguez López-Vázquez y Adrián J. Sáez) para llegar a la conclusión, tras pormenorizados cotejos con textos coetáneos, de que ninguna de las analogías expuestas se da de forma aislada en Cervantes. Así pues, es imposible añadir la novela a las compuestas por este autor.
Algunos rasgos de la biología de la abeja roja de los caracoles, Rhodanthidium sticticum (Fabricius, 1787): fenología, preferencia floral, uso de conchas, capacidad de vuelo y comportamiento territorial
Authors: Romero Daniel , Vargas Pablo , Ornosa Concepción
Published: December 2021

La ecología y el comportamiento de la mayoría de las especies de abejas mediterráneas (fenología, comportamiento solitario o social, apareamiento, nidificación, especialización en plantas) son aún poco conocidos o no han sido descritos en profundidad, salvo para contadas especies. Tal es el caso de la abeja roja de los caracoles, Rhodanthidium sticticum (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae), una especie mediterránea, solitaria y territorial cuya biología ha sido tratada muy superficialmente. En este trabajo se describe su fenología, el uso que hace de conchas de caracol más allá de la nidificación, la polilectia y las plantas que visita, su capacidad de vuelo, la territorialidad y el apareamiento, todo ello basado en observaciones de campo propias. La biología de R. sticticum es parecida a la de otros Anthidiini, pero con particularidades. Es una especie primaveral, univoltina, muy activa en días soleados durante las horas centrales. Cuando las condiciones meteorológicas son adversas se refugia en el interior de conchas de caracol, pudiendo compartirlas varios individuos (de la misma especie o incluso de otras). A pesar de ser claramente poliléctica, muestra preferencia por plantas con flores melitófilas, en especial del género Antirrhinum. Los machos defienden sus territorios, tanto contra otros machos conespecíficos como interespecíficamente, con un comportamiento que permite asegurar su propio éxito reproductivo.
Actualización al listado de himenópteros (Insecta: Hymenoptera) de la región Piura, Perú
Authors: Juárez-Noé Gino
Published: December 2021

Con base en colectas, registros bibliográficos y revisión de material depositado en colecciones entomológicas se realiza una actualización al listado de himenópteros de la región Piura al noroeste de Perú. Se adicionan 22 especies, 18 géneros, cuatro familias y se completa la identificación hasta el nivel de especie de nueve taxones citados en el listado previo, quedando la lista actualizada en 167 especies, 131 géneros, 30 familias y nueve superfamilias. Para 18 especies ya conocidas se reportan nuevos datos provinciales ampliando su área de distribución conocida dentro de la región. Las especies añadidas en esta actualización se presentan a modo de listado taxonómico comentado y se incluye lista actualizada de todos los himenópteros conocidos hasta el momento para la región con distribución por provincia y paisaje ecológico.
Sobre la larva de la luciérnaga ibérica endémica Photinus immigrans Zaragoza-Caballero & Viñolas, 2018 (Coleoptera, Lampyridae)
Authors: Rodríguez-Flores Paula C. , Recuero Ernesto
Published: December 2021

La luciérnaga Photinus immigrans se conoce únicamente en la península ibérica, aunque probablemente es una especie originaria de Norteamérica. En esta nota presentamos el primer registro e ilustración de su larva. Ésta puede ser fácilmente identificada gracias a su patrón de coloración, formado en cada segmento por varias líneas longitudinales marrón claro o rojizas sobre fondo negro o marrón oscuro. Se han encontrado viviendo enterradas en capas superficiales del suelo, hasta 10–15 cm de profundidad. P. immigrans vive en simpatría con al menos otras tres especies de luciérnaga nativas de la península ibérica: Lampyris iberica, Nyctophila reichii and Lamprohiza mulsantii, aunque aparentemente no hay sintopía estricta al menos durante las fases larvarias. Las larvas de P. immigrans probablemente utilizan recursos tróficos parcialmente diferentes a los de las especies nativas, y su señalización luminosa es también muy diferente a aquellas de otras especies simpátricas, aunque es necesario un estudio en profundidad sobre competencia interespecífica y el posible efecto de esta especie exótica sobre las luciérnagas nativas.
Una nueva especie de Camptoptera Foerster, 1856 (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae) y redescripción de otras dos especies del género recién registradas en la India
Authors: Tarique Anwar Prince , Bin Zeya Shahid , Uzma Usman Syeda , Rahman Khan Farmanur
Published: December 2021

Se describe Camptoptera aveolobato Anwar y Zeya sp. nov. (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae) y se redescriben y citan por primera vez en la India C. concava Taguchi, 1972, de Filipinas, y C. jthuberi Triapitsyn, 2018, de Taiwán. Además, se incluye la nueva especie en la clave dicotómica de las especies indias de Camptoptera de Anwar et al. (2020).
Software Architecture
Authors: Velasco-Elizondo Perla
Published: December 2021

What is software architecture? A clear and simple definition is that software architecture is about making important design decisions that you want to get right early in the development of a software system because, in the future, they are costly to change. Being a good software architect is not easy. It requires not only a deep technical competency from practicing software architecture design in industry, but also an excellent understanding of the theoretical foundations of software architecture are gained from doing software architecture research. This chapter describes some significant research, development, and education activities that the author has performed during her professional trajectory path to develop knowledge, skills, and experiences around this topic.
Disciplined Teams vs. Agile Teams
Authors: Costa Antonio Alexandre Moura , Ramos Felipe Barbosa Araújo , Valadares Dalton Cézane Gomes , Albuquerque Danyllo Wagner , Filho Emanuel Dantas , Gomes Alexandre Braga , Perkusich Mirko Barbosa , Oliveira de Almeida Hyggo
Published: December 2021

Software development has been considered a socio-technical activity over the past decades. Particularly, in the case of software engineering, the necessity to communicate effectively with stakeholders and team members has been progressively emphasized. Human resources play a critical role in the success of software projects. Many techniques, methods, tools, models, and methodologies have been proposed, applied, and improved in order to help and ease the management of the software development process. Regardless of the software development methodology adopted, delivering a quality product in a predictable, efficient, and responsive manner is the objective for every team. Disciplined and Agile teams have different characteristics, but also share common aspects when working to accomplish their goals. The main motivation of this chapter is to present the differences and similarities of both teams in the context of software development.
Risk Management Metrics
Authors: Dua Rimsy , Sharma Samiksha , Kumar Rohit
Published: December 2021

This chapter describes how risk management deals with the detection, the evaluation and the precedence of the risks in the process of project management. There is always an uncertainty factor related to the decisions of an investment while managing a project. Risk management is a proactive approach to deal with such future events that can lead to slow performance of the software project management. For successful risk management; there are different metrics that have been used in the past and are being getting used in the present for inspecting the progress of a project at specific points in a timeline that help in reducing the amount of risk. For the adoption of effective metrics for risk management, data is required. All of the metrics can be applied to the different domains of project, process and product. The chapter also covers strategies to advance, distinguish, estimate, and forecast the risk management process. A review of the key point indicators (KPIs) are also integrated along with the project metrics to signify the future and the present renderings.
Security Assurance in Agile Software Development Methods
Authors: Rindell Kalle , Hyrynsalmi Sami , Leppänen Ville
Published: December 2021

Agile software development was introduced in the beginning of the 2000s to increase the visibility and efficiency software projects. Since then it has become as an industry standard. However, fitting sequential security engineering development models into iterative and incremental development practices in agile methods has caused difficulties in defining, implementing, and verifying the security properties of software. In addition, agile methods have also been criticized for decreased quality of documentation, resulting in decreased security assurance necessary for regulative purposes and security measurement. As a consequence, lack of security assurance can complicate security incident management, thus increasing the software's potential lifetime cost. This chapter clarifies the requirements for software security assurance by using an evaluation framework to analyze the compatibility of established agile security development methods: XP, Scrum, and Kanban. The results show that the agile methods are not inherently incompatible with security engineering requirements.
MMT
Authors: Mäkiaho Pekka , Vartiainen Katriina , Poranen Timo
Published: December 2021

This paper presents the Metrics Monitoring Tool (MMT) that was developed in university graduate and undergraduate courses on software project work in 2014-2016. The tool aims to support project members, project managers and upper management in reporting and monitoring software and project metrics for their easier and more effective utilization. The paper covers the development process of the tool, evaluation assessment, its current composition and features. The paradigm applied in this study is Design Science Research and the methods for evaluation include prototype, expert evaluation, case study and technical experiment. Data was collected from the tool users by two questionnaires. As a result, MMT was evaluated to ease the metrics handling, while several aspects related to the richness of functionalities and usability still require further development.
Social Capital and Knowledge Networks of Software Developers
Authors: Balijepally VenuGopal , Nerur Sridhar
Published: December 2021

Software development is a problem-solving activity, where ideas are combined in complex ways to create a software product that embodies new knowledge. In this endeavor, software developers constantly look for actionable knowledge to help solve the problem at hand. While knowledge management efforts in the software development domain traditionally involved technical initiatives such as knowledge repositories, experience factories, and lessons-to-learn databases, there is a growing appreciation in the software community of the role of developers' personal knowledge networks in software development. However, research is scarce on the nature of these networks, the knowledge resources accessed from these networks, and the differences, if any, between developers of different experience levels. This research seeks to fill this void. Based on a case study in a software development organization, this research explores the nature of knowledge networks of developers from a social capital perspective. Specifically, it examines the structural and relational dimensions of developers' knowledge networks, identifies the specific actionable knowledge resources accessed from these networks, and explores how entry-level and more experienced developers differ along these dimensions. The findings from the qualitative analysis, backed by limited quantitative analysis of the case study data underpin the discussion, implications for practice and future research directions.
Team Characteristics Moderating Effect on Software Project Completion Time
Authors: Dayyala Niharika , Walstrom Kent A. , Bagchi Kallol K.
Published: December 2021

This study highlights the importance of human factors in software projects developed in capability maturity model (CMM) level software development environments. While software process initiatives help streamline the development process, people factors can influence project outcomes. Using data procured from the International Software Benchmarking Standard Group, the effects of team turnover, team heterogeneity, and team member work experience were examined as they moderate project elapsed time for software projects developed in CMM level software development environments. Team member work experience and team functional heterogeneity were found to have significant moderating effects on project elapsed time to completion. The turnover of members on the team did not have a significant moderating effect on project elapsed time to completion. Previous studies have examined the benefits of raising the level of maturity as identified by the capability maturity model. This study identifies the importance of human factors as they moderate project success.
The Influence of the Application of Agile Practices in Software Quality Based on ISO/IEC 25010 Standard
Authors: Arcos-Medina Gloria , Mauricio David
Published: December 2021

Agile practices are activities or procedures that are applied during the software development process in order to improve its quality and productivity. The objective of this study is to determine the influence of agile practices on software quality. For this purpose, a model composed of 4 groups of agile practices and 8 quality characteristics according to the ISO/IEC 25010 standard has here been proposed. The results of 146 questionnaires addressed to people involved in the software development process show that the application of agile engineering and project management practices have a significant positive influence on the quality attribute functionality. On the other hand, project management practices have a low impact on the quality characteristics of compatibility, portability, security, and usability.
The ISO/IEC 29110 Software Lifecycle Standard for Very Small Companies
Authors: O'Connor Rory V.
Published: December 2021

For many small and start-up software companies, implementing controls and structures to properly manage their software development activity is a major challenge. It is commonly agreed that very small software companies, implementing management procedures, and controls to appropriately administer their software development activity is a significant challenge. To help meet the need for VSE-specific systems and software lifecycle profiles and guidelines, the ISO/IEC jointly published ISO/IEC 29110 “Lifecycle profiles for Very Small Entities” series of standards and guides, with the overall objective being to assist and encourage very small software organization in assessing and improving their software. The purpose of this chapter is to provide a primer on the ISO/IEC 29110 standard focusing on two main process areas of Project Management and Software Implementation.
Measuring Developers' Software Security Skills, Usage, and Training Needs
Authors: Oyetoyan Tosin Daniel , Jaatun Martin Gilje Gilje , Cruzes Daniela Soares
Published: December 2021

Software security does not emerge fully formed by divine intervention in deserving software development organizations; it requires that developers have the required theoretical background and practical skills to enable them to write secure software, and that the software security activities are actually performed, not just documented procedures that sit gathering dust on a shelf. In this chapter, the authors present a survey instrument that can be used to investigate software security usage, competence, and training needs in agile organizations. They present results of using this instrument in two organizations. They find that regardless of cost or benefit, skill drives the kind of activities that are performed, and secure design may be the most important training need.
Enterprise Resource Planning Systems in Iran
Authors: Rezaeian Maryam , Wynn Martin George
Published: December 2021

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software packages have been widely implemented in the developed world since they first appeared on the market in the late 1970s. In the developing world, however, the lack of the human and financial resources needed for such projects, and the non-availability of sales and support offices for western-based ERP vendors, has limited the uptake of ERP software. However, in Iran, there has been significant recent growth in the development of homegrown ERP software solutions. These products are usually more customizable than western-based ERP products and can thus be adapted more readily to specific user requirements. Using a case study approach, this article examines the origins and development of one of these companies – the Behko software company, and assesses its main product, and how it has been implemented in a typical end-user company. The article concludes that the homegrown ERP sector in Iran is making a significant contribution to the provision of information systems in the country, and is competing successfully with western-based alternatives.
Employee Theft Behavior
Authors: Nguyen Phuong Minh Binh , Truong Giang Nu To
Published: December 2021

Employee theft has becoming a serious and challenging issue for all businesses, especially to hotel organizations where employees have easy access to cash, amenities, and other inventories and items. This research is based on the theory of planned behavior, equity theory, and reinforcement theory to study the factors affecting employee theft behavior as well as the moderating effect of the internal control system in the hotel industry in Vietnam. Data were collected through 312 questionnaire responses and 9 in-depth interviews. The results confirmed that personal characteristics, opportunities, unfair compensations, injustice, and unethical working environment do affect stealing behavior at work. Moreover, the internal control system is proved to moderate the attitude and intention to steal to stealing behavior relationships. These results will provide an essential reference for both academicians and professionals to conduct further empirical validation or develop appropriate internal programs to prevent hotel employee theft behaviors.
Are Moroccan Free School Support Websites Effective for Learners During the Covid-19 Pandemic?
Authors: Rhazal Ahmed , Ajana Lotfi , Khouna Jalal
Published: December 2021

In these times of Covid-19 pandemic, many Moroccan students access websites for their school support needs. The objective of this study is to carry out an evaluation of some Moroccan free school support websites and to verify their effectiveness for learners, from a socio-constructivist perspective. This evaluation is conducted out by various teachers, using an evaluation grid developed by the authors following a review of literature that identified a number of elements considered as important factors for the proper functioning of an educational website. The approach adopted allowed the grid to be validated (Cronbach's alpha equal to 0.82). The results of the evaluation show several positive aspects but also some weaknesses inherent to the studied websites, especially concerning help with work methodology and pedagogical guidance and also the interactivity. Finally, several recommendations are proposed by the authors.
Anonymity, Systems Characteristics, and Feedback Provision in Online Learning Communities
Authors: Gyamfi Samuel Adu , Koranteng Felix Nti , Budu Joseph
Published: December 2021

The growing ubiquity of the Internet has attracted various studies on the various issues concerning online communities for education. These studies assume that systems characteristics do not play any major role in the behaviours exhibited in such online spaces. Consequently, they focus on group impetus and personality traits of members. Further, the role of anonymity in feedback provision in online communities for education is inconclusive. The purpose of this paper, is to develop and test a model that explains learners’ feedback provision in online learning communities. The model includes anonymity and relevant system characteristics such as system quality and information quality. Survey data analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling reveal two main findings. First, the higher the assurance of anonymity for learners on online learning, the better their system credibility and quality. Second, system characteristics such as aesthetics and perceived system quality predict feedback provision. The implications to research and practice are discussed.
How the initial retentive force of implant-supported overdentures can be affected with splinted and unsplinted attachments systems
Authors: Nejatidanesh Farahnaz , Savabi Omid , Savabi Ghazal , Razavi Mehdi
Published: December 2021

Background:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the retention of implant-supported overdentures with different attachment systems.

Materials and Methods:

In this in vitro study edentulous model with 2 Straumann implant in symphyseal region was used to make an overdenture with different attachment systems. (Dolder bar with 1 and 3 metal clips, Hader bar with 1 and 3 plastic clips, ball on bar with 2 and 4 plastic caps, Locator, Rhein plastic caps and Eleptical matrix). Retention values were recorded by universal testing machine with a cross speed of 50.8 mm/min in vertical, posteroanterior, and lateral direction. Repeated measure ANOVA and Duncan tests were used for the data analysis (α =0.05).

Results:

There was a statistically significant difference between the retention values of studied attachments in different dislodgment directions (P < 0.05). The highest and lowest retention were recorded for 4 balls on bar (56.71 N) and Rhein pink caps (27.89 N) in the vertical direction. Three metal clips (61.43 N) and Rhein pink cap (24.77 had the highest and lowest retention force in the posteroanterior direction. In the lateral direction, 4 balls on bar (62.68 N) and 1 plastic clip (32.27 N) showed the highest and lowest retention, respectively.

Conclusion:

If the higher retention force has been considered for implant-supported overdenture attachment selection, the clinician can use splinted bar or ball on bar superstructure.
Comparison of dental treatments performed under general anesthesia for healthy and disabled children
Authors: Kaviani Nasser , Ghafournia Maryam , Mirzaali Salim , Marzoughi Shirin , Salari-Moghaddam Reza
Published: December 2021

Background:

This study aimed to assess and compare the type of dental procedures performed under general anesthesia for healthy and disabled children.

Materials and Methods:

This descriptive, cross-sectional study evaluated 361 dental records of children who received dental treatments under general anesthesia in the operating room of Torabinejad Research Center during 2011–2013. Patients with mental or physical disability were categorized as disabled. The age and gender of patients, number of treated teeth, duration of general anesthesia, type of tooth, and type of dental treatment such as extraction, pulp therapy, placement of stainless steel crowns, composite restoration, preventive resin restoration (PRR), fissure sealant treatment, and fluoride therapy were separately recorded for the healthy group and patients with disability. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, and independent sample t-test at P < 0.05 level of significance.

Results:

Of 361 patients, 263 patients were healthy and 102 patients had disability. Of all disabled children, 48% had physical and 52% had mental disability. Among patients with physical disability, allergy (40%), followed by cardiovascular diseases (26%) were the most common. Mental retardation (54%) followed by cerebral palsy (10%) were the most common mental disabilities. Number of extracted teeth was significantly higher in disabled children (P = 0.006). Furthermore, disabled children received significantly lower PRR (P = 0.015), fissure sealant treatment (P = 0.003), fluoride therapy (P = 0.002), and pulp therapy (P < 0.001) compared with healthy children.

Conclusion:

Tooth extraction has a higher frequency in disabled children; while, attempts are made to preserve the teeth as much as possible in healthy children.
Endovenous Laser Therapy in Varicose Veins-Recanalization Rate and Quality of Life
Authors: Tiwari Kritika , Kamerkar Dhanesh R , Shinde Bhushan
Published: December 2021

Context:

In endovenous ablation under ultrasound guidance the saphenous vein is percutaneously accessed and the catheter is advanced cephalad toward the saphenofemoral junction. Tumescent anesthesia and thermal energy are used in concert to provide an effective means of eliminating great saphenous vein reflux.

Aims and Objectives:

Primary objective – (1) To study recanalization rate after light amplification stimulated by emission of radiation (LASER) in the varicose vein. Secondary Objectives are to Study – (1) Clinical effectiveness of LASER in varicose veins. (2) Quality of life (QoL).

Materials and Methods:

Single institute based prospective observational study of 81 patients undergoing LASER ablation for varicose veins was observed for 12 months post LASER ablation. Patients were assessed for residual varicosities, new varicosities, recurrence, complications, and QoL.

Results:

There was no recanalization of ablated veins at the end of 12 months. About 96.3% of patients remained free from developing new varicosities, whereas only 18.5% of patients had residual varicosities postprocedure at the initial follow-up which has been successfully treated with foam sclerotherapy. QoL postprocedure improved significantly with 69 patients (85.2%) had excellent QoL after 12 months postprocedure.

Conclusion:

(1) Least residual varicosities postprocedure treated by foam sclerotherapy. (2) Development of new varicosities occurs late in follow-up. (3) Zero recurrence rate of ablated veins through LASER. (4) Postopearative complication of pain and paraesthesia are minimal due to adequate tumescent anesthesia. (5) Dreaded complication of deep venous thrombosis is not recorded in any of the cases because of early ambulation. (6) There is a significant improvement in QoL of patients from the start to the end of the study.
Idiopathic Large-Vessel Vasculitis Presenting as Acute Abdomen and Mesenteric Ischemia
Authors: Sekar Natarajan , Ponnuswamy Iyappan
Published: December 2021

Objective:

The term “large-vessel vasculitis” encompasses the spectrum of primary vasculitis that causes chronic granulomatous inflammation predominantly of the aorta and its major branches. The two major categories of large-vessel (LV) vasculitis are giant cell arteritis and Takayasu arteritis. LV vasculitis of unknown etiology presenting as mesenteric ischemia is presented here.

Materials and Methods:

This is a single-center retrospective analysis of 17 patients who presented with mesenteric ischemia over a period of 7 years. Their age ranged from 18 to 69 years. There were five females and the rest were male. The presenting symptoms were abdominal pain, nausea, malaise, and low-grade fever. Peripheral pulses were normal. Computed tomography (CT) aortogram showed typical wall edema and inflammatory tissue encasing the superior mesenteric artery, celiac artery, and the adjacent aorta in all the patients. Thrombosis and localized dissection in the superior mesenteric and celiac arteries was seen in some. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein were elevated, but other vasculitis markers were normal.

Results:

All of them were treated with glucocorticoids with immediate relief from the symptoms. Anticoagulation was given for those with thrombus, stenosis, and dissection. None had any intervention. At 1-year follow-up, there was no recurrence, and all were asymptomatic.

Conclusion:

Idiopathic LV vasculitis can present as mesenteric ischemia and acute abdomen. CT aortogram typically shows inflammatory tissue around the visceral artery and the aorta. The etiology is still uncertain. However, this condition has many similarities with LV giant cell arteritis (GCA-LV). Hence, all investigations should be done to rule out GCA. They respond very well to glucocorticoids. Correct diagnosis can avoid an unnecessary surgery. Long-term follow-up is required in order not to miss any late complications This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.
Sexual Dysfunction Following Aortoiliac Surgery
Authors: Benallal Souad , Raiah Mourad , Chenni Karima
Published: December 2021

Objective:

The purpose is to determine the incidence of erectile dysfunction (ED) in patients with aortoiliac occlusive disease and compare the change of ED after open surgery and endovascular repair.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective and comparative study in a single center from January 2013 to October 2015, 103 male patients admitted for extensive aortoiliac occlusive lesions. The erectile function (EF) was evaluated using a questionnaire. All patients filled out the questionnaire preoperatively and postoperatively after 1 year.

Results:

This study enrolled two groups: 48 patients underwent endovascular treatment and 55 patients underwent open surgery (aortofemoral or aorto-iliac bypasses). Preoperatively, 45.8% of patients were functionally impotent; there was no difference EF depending on the stage of peripheral arterial disease or the severity of obstructive aortoiliac lesions. Postoperative impotence was twice as common in those with minor dysfunction preoperatively, deterioration of EF occurred in 16.2% in the surgical group, and 2.1% in the endovascular group, with a very significant difference (P = 0.0001). In multivariate analysis, adjusted to preoperative EF was significantly more impaired postoperatively after median laparotomy (heart rate: 24.80 confidence interval = 95% [3.17–51.80], P < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

Sexual dysfunction is a frequent and often missed comorbidity in vascular surgery patients, especially after aortoiliac surgery. Hence, it must be diagnosed and evaluated in preoperatively in the choice of the therapeutic approach. For that endovascular treatment offers a less invasive alternative to open surgery and allows patients to maintain its sexual function intact and improve the quality of life.
Etiology and Management of Femoral Artery Pseudoaneurysm Formation in Patients of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Goyal Vikas Deep , Misra Gaurav
Published: December 2021

Hemodialysis access is not a common cause of femoral artery pseudoaneurysm (FAP) formation. FAP formation during dialysis access is due to inadvertent cannulation of the femoral artery instead of the femoral vein. The ruptured FAPs can lead to increased morbidity and mortality. We hereby share our experience of three cases of ruptured FAPs or with impending rupture after femoral hemodialysis access in patients of chronic kidney disease. Urgent intervention is usually required to prevent life-threatening complications in such patients.
Learning Curve for Arteriovenous Fistula Creation
Authors: Neretljak Ivan , Smojver Hrvoje , Sučić Mario , Erdelez Lidija
Published: December 2021

Objective:

Amount of time and number of procedures required in junior surgeon (JS) to achieve arteriovenous fistula (AVF) patency rate of surgeon with 20 years of experience.

Methods:

A single-center, retrospective, case–control study of AVF primary patency rate at 1 year postoperatively was observed among junior and experienced surgeon (ES) over a 4-year period. Fistula was created by terminolateral anastomosis in a fashion of continuous suture with nonabsorbable double-armed 7-0 monofilament. Maturation was grounded on the physical examination and fistula ultrasound 6 weeks postoperatively.

Results:

One hundred and twelve patients, 65% male and 35% female, were included in the study in 4 year period, 2015–2018. There were 51% radiocephalic and 49% brachiocephalic fistulas constructed by JS. Patency rate for JS was 66% overall, combining 64% for radiocephalic and 67% for brachiocephalic, compared to ESs 79%, performing only brachiocephalic fistulas. In the first 3 years, patency rate was 63%, 60%, and 66%, while significant improvement was accomplished in the the 4th year with patency rate of 75%. Average time for hemodialysis initiation was 88 days postoperatively.

Conclusions:

Three years and approximately 60 procedures are required for JS to produce results comparable to ES in creation of AVF.
Extra- Anatomical Bypass Applications Still as an Alternative in Progressive Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease Manegement
Authors: Borulu Ferhat , Calik Eyup Serhat , Arslan Umit , Kilic Yasin , Jalalzai Izatullah , Erkut Bilgehan , Unlu Yahya
Published: December 2021

Aims:

Extra-anatomical bypass (EAB) is still an important alternative treatment method in patients with aortoiliac occlusive disease (AIOD).

Settings and Design:

In this study, we assessed the results of EAB procedures, over a 22-year period, based on 30-day morbidity and mortality, 1st month, 1st, 3rd, and 5th year patient survival, primary patency, and limb salvage rates.

Subjects and Methods:

A retrospective review and analyze was performed on a single-center database of consecutive 46 patients who underwent femorofemoral or axillofemoral bypass grafting procedures from 1998 to 2020. All patients were called to followed up and were performed clinical examination and color duplex ultrasound (CDUS) evaluation for determination of graft patency. The surviving patients were followed-up for 5 years.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Five-year survival, graft patency, and limb salvage rates were calculated by the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results:

The 46 subjects included 25 (54.3%) femoral and 21 (45.7%) axillary bypass applications. The mean age was 64.2 ± 12.8 years (28–82) and 36 were male (78.3%). Critical limb ischemia was the most accounted indication for EAB surgery (25/54.4%). The cumulative mortality rate was 34.8% at 5 years' period. The graft patency and limb salvage rates for femoral and axillary applications were 59.2% versus 57.4% and 86.4% versus 80% at 5 years, respectively.

Conclusions:

Femorofemoral and axillofemoral bypasses are suitable for patients with AIOD requiring revascularization for relief of symptoms or limb salvage, who are not candidates for endovascular therapy or who are at high risk for direct anatomical revascularization.
Randomised controlled study of seroma rates after mastectomy with and without quilting the skin flap to pectoralis muscle
Authors: Yilmaz S , Aykota MR , Baran TY , Sabir N , Erdem E
Published: December 2021

Aims:

The aim of this study was to determine whether seroma formation was affected by reduction of the potential dead space with the flap fixation method and obliteration of the axillary region in patients with breast cancer who underwent either mastectomy and axillary lymph node dissection or sentinel lymph node biopsy. A total of 105 patients with breast cancer were divided into two groups according to wound closure patterns.

Patients and Methods:

The operating time, postoperative pain and complications, time to drain removal, seroma formation, amount of fluid aspirated and number of aspirations were recorded prospectively.

Results:

No significant difference was found between groups in the rates of seroma development (P = 0.7), complication rates (P = 0.6), time to drain removal (P = 0.5), length of hospital stay (P = 0.3) or numbers of aspiration (P = 0.7). The operating time for fixation was determined to be longer than that of the classic procedure (P = 0.02).

Conclusions:

Reducing potential dead space with flap fixation and obliteration of the axillary region may be useful in decreasing the development of seroma in patients who have undergone mastectomy because of breast cancer. However, surgical technique must be careful, and appropriate patient follow-up must be conducted.
Atherogenic and cardiovascular risks of women on combined oral contraceptives
Authors: Jimoh OS , Abdul IF , Balogun OR , Biliaminu SA , Adeniran AS , Jimoh-Abdulghaffaar HO , Adesina KT , Ahmed A , Oladosu WO
Published: December 2021

Background:

Although combined oral contraceptive (COC) is commonly used in sub-Saharan Africa, data on its cardiovascular disease risk remains scanty. The study aimed to determine serial serum lipid profiles and cardiovascular disease risks among COC-users.

Methods:

This is a prospective, comparative multicentered study conducted at four health facilities in Nigeria. Participants were new users of contraceptives; 120 each of women initiating COCs (group I) and those initiating other forms of nonhormonal contraceptives (group II) were recruited and monitored over a 6-month period. Serial lipid profile, blood pressure, and atherogenic risk for cardiovascular diseases were measured at recruitment (start) and scheduled follow-up clinic visits at 3 months and 6 months for all participants. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS (version 21.0) and P value < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results:

In all, 225 participants (111 COC-users, 114 nonCOC-users) that completed the study were aged 18 to 49 years. There was a statistically significant increase in the diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.001), Low Density Lipoprotein- Cholesterol (P = 0.038) and higher atherogenic risk (P = 0.001) among COC-users compared to nonCOC-users. The serial total serum cholesterol, triglyceride, High Density Lipoprotein, systolic blood pressure, and body mass index were higher among COC-users but were not statistically significant compared to nonCOC-users.

Conclusion:

Alterations in lipid profile and increased short-term atherogenic risk for cardiovascular disease were reported among the COC-users in this study. Serial lipid profile and atherogenic risk assessment for cardiovascular diseases are recommended for monitoring of COC-users.
Results of the switch from intravitreal ranibizumab to intravitreal aflibercept therapy in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Ertan E , Efe N , Sabaner MC , Doğan M
Published: December 2021

Aim:

The study aimed to evaluate the functional and anatomical results of patients treated with intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (n-AMD) but switched to intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) treatment due to insufficient response treatment.

Material and Methods:

At least six doses of n-AMD were administered IVR to 33 patients who were switched to IVA treatment due to insufficient response and were included in the study. The patients were evaluated at the beginning of the IVR treatment during the transition to IVA treatment and at 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, and 42 months of IVA treatment.

Results:

After an average of 10.1 ± 5.04 IVR injections, the patients who were accepted as insufficient response were treated with IVA. The central macular thickness of the patients was evaluated at the beginning of the treatment, immediately before, and after the initiation of IVA treatment at 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42 months. It was as follows: 325.21 ± 123.04, 351.42 ± 126.09, 284.81 ± 112.65, 296.68 ± 89.17, 282.61 ± 81.58, 292.27 ± 109, 92,269.75 ± 97.14, 267.50 ± 87.56, and 266.82 ± 88.35 μm. According to the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), it was initially 0.89 ± 0.65; 1.08 ± 0.53 during the transition to IVA; 0.91 ± 0.46 6 months after IVA; 12th 1.14 ± 0.59; 0.94 ± 0.55 at 18th; 1.07 ± 0.49 at 24th; 1.15 ± 0.57 at 30th; 1.06 ± 0.45 at 36th, and 1.13 ± 0.46 LogMAR (Logarithm of the Minimum Angle of Resolution) at the 42nd month.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, in n-AMD patients with inadequate response to intravitreal ranibizumab or with relapse, and therefore, switched to aflibercept treatment, the anatomical improvement and sustainment were observed, however, functional recovery could not be achieved.
Mechanic ileus due to retroperitoneal migration of total hip prosthesis; A case report
Authors: Ocak Karataş ŞF , Beyhan M , Yildiz MI , Gökçe E
Published: December 2021

Intrapelvic migration of total hip prosthesis is a rare but severe complication of total hip arthroplasty that can cause severe outcomes for elderly patients. A 78-year-old female patient was referred to our hospital with the complaint of no gas-stool excretion for 3-4 days, abdominal distension, nausea, vomiting, and a preliminary diagnosis of ileus. Computed tomography showed the migration of the left total hip prosthesis to the pelvis, causing a hematoma around the prosthesis and mechanical ileus due to the compression of the hematoma. To our knowledge, this case report is the only reported mechanic ileus due to migration of total hip prosthesis. Although postop paralytic ileus is one of the complications of total hip arthroplasty, mechanical ileus has not been described before. This case report shows that mechanical ileus might be an unreported complication of total hip arthroplasty. It should be kept in mind that mechanical ileus complications may also occur after hip arthroplasty.