bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability of the University of Miami Chronic Rhinosinusitis Staging System
Authors: Lehman David A. , Casiano Roy R. , Polak Marek
Published: August 2018

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the interrater reliability and correlation between computed tomography (CT) and endoscopic components of the University of Miami (UM) Chronic Rhinosinusitis Staging System (UMCRSS), a comprehensive staging system for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

Methods

A prospective analysis of 55 patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery for CRS was performed. The population consisted of 28 men and 27 women, with a mean age of 45.9 years. All patients underwent staging, via the CT and endoscopic components of the UMCRSS in the operating room, by three examiners. The reliability of the system and all of its components was determined by K-coefficient analysis, comparing the data from all three examiners. Correlation between the CT and endoscopic arms was analyzed by Pearson's product moment coefficient.

Results

Interrater reliability for the CT arm (κ = 0.83) and endoscopic arm (κ = 0.74 for the revision population, and κ = 0.72 for the primary surgery population) were found to be significant. Endoscopic staging established significant correlation with CT staging (Pearson's r2 = 0.40; p < 0.0001 overall, 0.57, p < 0.0001 for revision, and 0.42, p < 0.0001 for primary cases).

Conclusion

The UMCRSS is a comprehensive and reliable staging system with very strong and positive correlation between the CT and endoscopic components.
How Good are Patients at Determining which Side of the Nose is More Obstructed? A Study on the Limits of Discrimination of the Subjective Assessment of Unilateral Nasal Obstruction
Authors: Clarke Jonathan D. , Hopkins Matthew L. , Eccles Ronald
Published: August 2018

Background

The subjective sensation of nasal obstruction is of great importance to the patient and surgeon because it is this symptom that causes the patient to present for investigation and treatment. Although there are several studies in the literature looking at the correlation (or lack of correlation) between objective and subjective measures of nasal obstruction, there is no information on the minimum objective change in obstruction measured as nasal airway resistance or flow, which can be detected by a patient. The aim of this study was to measure the minimum difference in unilateral airflow that can be reliably detected by a patient.

Methods

Sixty participants with a common cold were recruited. One hundred twenty unilateral measurements of objective and subjective nasal obstruction were obtained using the technique of posterior rhinomanometry and a 100-mm visual analog scale (VAS).

Results

Seventy-seven percent of the participants correctly discriminated between the high- and low-flow nasal passages using the VAS. Ninety-five percent of subjects correctly discriminated on the VAS between the high- and low-flow nasal passages when the difference in flow between the nasal passages was at least 100 cm3/s.

Conclusion

This study provides new knowledge about the limits of subjective sensation of nasal obstruction. At a level of 100 cm3/s difference in unilateral nasal flow, 95% of subjects with acute rhinitis can correctly identify the more obstructed nasal passage when using a VAS. With smaller differences in unilateral flow, the percentage of correct responses declines rapidly toward 50% as expected by chance alone.
Bacteremia during Open Septorhinoplasty
Authors: Okur Erdogan , Yildirim Ilhami , Aral Mural , Ciragil Pınar , Kılıç M. Akif , Gul Mustafa
Published: August 2018

Background

In this study, we aimed at determining the incidence of bacteremia during septoplasty and open septorhinoplasty.

Methods

The study included 60 patients (30 septoplasties and 30 open septorhinoplasties). Preoperative nasal cultures from the nasal cavity and vestibule were taken by using swabs, and blood cultures were obtained from peripheral veins preoperatively, intraoperatively, and postoperatively. Blood cultures were evaluated by using the BACTEC method.

Results

Neither the blood cultures taken preoperatively nor those obtained postoperatively was positive for any organisms. On the other hand, although the bacterial growth was observed in only one of the blood cultures (3.3%) taken intraoperatively during septoplasty, it was observed in four blood cultures (13.3%) obtained intraoperatively during open septorhinoplasty.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that a transient bacteremia occurs during open septorhinoplasty. Although this bacteremia is transient and it has not led to any clinical manifestations in our patients, the possibility of bacteremia during this surgery should be kept in mind and necessary precautions should be taken preoperatively in patients with a high risk of cardiovascular infection.
New Classification of Nasal Vasculature Patterns in Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia
Authors: Mahoney Elizabeth J. , Shapshay Stanley M.
Published: August 2018

Background

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a disorder characterized by the triad of recurrent epistaxis, telangiectasia, and a family history of the disease. Management of recalcitrant epistaxis in HHT remains a challenging problem for otolaryngologists. The precise coagulation of telangiectasias with the Nd-YAG laser has shown efficacy in the treatment of HHT-associated epistaxis, but results can be variable and patient selection is critical in ensuring a successful outcome. We propose a new classification of nasal vasculature patterns in HHT as a means for selecting the Nd-YAG laser for photocoagulation treatment.

Methods

The records of 40 patients who underwent Nd-YAG laser photocoagulation for HHT were reviewed retrospectively. Outcomes after Nd-YAG laser treatment were correlated with three observed nasal vasculature patterns: (I) isolated punctate telangiectasias or individual small arteriovenous malformation; (II) diffuse interconnecting vasculature with “feeder” vessels; and (III) large solitary arteriovenous malformation, which may be associated with scattered telangiectasia.

Results

Types I and II were the most common vasculature patterns seen in this patient population. Patients with patterns I and III showed greater improvement in epistaxis after Nd-YAG laser photocoagulation. Patients with pattern II fared better with septodermoplasty.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that analysis of nasal vasculature patterns can improve therapeutic stratification of patients with HHT. Proper patient selection using this new classification scheme may improve the management of epistaxis in patients with HHT.
Eosinophilic Angiocentric Fibrosis of the Sinonasal Tract in a Male Patient with Chronic Bowel Inflammation
Authors: Slovik Youval , Putterman Marc , Nash Michael , Sion-Vardy Netta
Published: August 2018

Background

Eosinophilic angiocentric fibrosis (EAF) is an uncommon inflammatory fibrosing lesion involving the upper respiratory mucosa, occurring mainly in young to middle aged women (female/male ratio = 2:1). The etiology is unknown; however, several factors might play a role in the development of EAF. Among them are prior nasal trauma (in most of the reported cases nasal surgery had been performed a few years prior to diagnosis) and inflammatory or autoimmune etiology (suggested by the ratio and the fact that in many of the reported cases a history of nonspecific allergy was found).

Methods

We report the first case of EAF affecting a male patient who also suffered from chronic inflammatory bowel disease and rheumatic fever.

Results

The patient underwent a diagnostic biopsy of his nasal lesion via an open rhinoplasty approach, with the resulting diagnosis of EAF. Despite the fact that the literature does not show advantages to any specific therapy, the patient elected to remain under observation. During a two-year follow-up period, there is no evidence of progression of disease.

Conclusion

The presence of concomitant rheumatoid arthritis and chronic inflammatory bowel disease in our patient, as well as the fact that nine previously reported cases of EAF had allergic/immune symptoms, raise the possibility that inflammatory or autoimmune factors may have a role in the development of this unusual pathological entity.
Serum Amyloid A, Properdin, Complement 3, and Toll-Like Receptors are Expressed Locally in Human Sinonasal Tissue
Authors: Lane Andrew P. , Truong-Tran Quynh-Ai , Myers Allan , Bickel Carol , Schleimer Robert P.
Published: August 2018

Background

There is a growing appreciation of the role that nasal mucosa plays in innate immunity. In this study, the expression of pattern recognition receptors known as toll-like receptors (TLRs) and the effector molecules complement factor 3 (C3), properdin, and serum amyloid A (SAA) were examined in human sinonasal mucosa obtained from control subjects and patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

Methods

Sinonasal mucosal specimens were obtained from 20 patients with CRS and 5 control subjects. Messenger RNA (mRNA) was isolated and tested using Taqman real-time polymerase chain reaction with primer and probe sets for C3, complement factor P, and SAA. Standard polymerase chain reaction was performed for the 10 known TLRs. Immunohistochemistry was performed on the microscopic sections using antibodies against C3

Results

Analysis of the sinonasal sample mRNA revealed expression of all 10 TLRs in both CRS samples and in control specimens. Expression of the three effector proteins was detected also, with the levels of mRNA for C3 generally greater than SAA and properdin in CRS patients. No significant differences were found in TLR or innate immune protein expression in normal controls. Immunohistochemical analysis of sinonasal mucosal specimens established C3 staining ranging from 20 to 85% of the epithelium present.

Conclusion

These studies indicate that sinonasal mucosa expresses genes involved in innate immunity including the TLRs and proteins involved in complement activation. We hypothesize that local production of complement and acute phase proteins by airway epithelium on stimulation of innate immune receptors may play an important role in host defense in the airway and, potentially, in the pathogenesis of CRS.
Quantification of Ciliary Beat Frequency in Sinonasal Epithelial Cells Using Differential Interference Contrast Microscopy and High-Speed Digital Video Imaging
Authors: Schipor Ioana , Palmer James N. , Cohen Akiva S. , Cohen Noam A.
Published: August 2018

Background

Mucociliary clearance is a critical upper airway host defense mechanism. Ciliated epithelium in the mammalian airway continually beat at a baseline frequency. Importantly, during times of stress such as exercise or infection, the cilia beat faster to increase clearance. Nasal epithelial ciliary beat frequency (CBF) has been analyzed previously in ex vivo specimens using a variety of methods including photodiode detectors and conventional video recording. Recent studies performed using lower airway ciliated mucosa have shown poor correlation between CBF quantified by photodiode/conventional video and those using high-speed digital video capture at temperatures close to physiological temperatures. Thus, to more rigorously interrogate sinonasal CBF at physiological conditions, we have incorporated a high-speed digital video camera to our CBF analysis system. This is the first report of sinonasal epithelial CBF analysis performed using high-speed video digital analysis.

Methods

Ex vivo samples of sinonasal epithelium were placed in lactated Ringer's in a temperature-controlled microscope stage chamber. An edge of tissue containing beating cilia was observed at a magnification of 630 X using differential interference contrast microscopy. The images were captured using a high-speed digital camera with a sampling rate of 250 frames per second. CBF was determined using computerized data analysis.

Results

The mean nasal CBF was calculated from a minimum of five regions for each sample. Temperature curves were generated from tissue obtained from chronically infected subjects.

Conclusion

Analysis of high-speed digital video capture of sinonasal CBF observed under differential interference contrast microscopy is a powerful method to investigate environmental as well as host influences on mucociliary clearance within the upper airways.
Regional Analysis of Sinonasal Ciliary Beat Frequency
Authors: Shaari Jeffrey , Palmer James N. , Chiu Alexander G. , Judy Kevin D. , Cohen Akiva S. , Kennedy David W. , Cohen Noam A.
Published: August 2018

Background

Mucociliary clearance, a primary host defense mechanism, depends on mucus production and its clearance by the coordinated beating of cilia lining the airways. Numerous investigations have analyzed ciliary activity in brushings from the inferior turbinate. To date, only one study has investigated whether there exists variation in ciliary beat frequency (CBF) within the sinonasal cavity. We analyzed CBF from the inferior turbinate, uncinate process, and sphenoethmoid recess in nonsinusitis patients to determine regional variability of ciliary activity within the sinonasal cavity.

Methods

Explants of sinonasal epithelium were analyzed at 37°C. Beating cilia were visualized with differential interference contrast microscopy. Images were captured using a high-speed digital camera with a sampling rate of 250 frames per second. A one-dimensional tracking algorithm analyzed individual pixel grayscale values within each frame of the video. The differences in grayscale were plotted as a time-dependent waveform, and frequency was calculated as the inverse of the peak-to-peak distance. A minimum of three areas of beating cilia were analyzed per regional sample. Statistical analysis was performed with repeated-measures analysis of variance.

Results

Complete sampling of all three sites was accomplished in 10 patients. No difference in CBF within the sinonasal cavity was identified (p < 0.05). The mean CBF for all sites in all patients was 12.6 ± 2.9 Hz, in agreement with published values.

Conclusion

This study shows no regional differences in CBF within the sinonasal cavity, supporting previous work and validating analysis of inferior turbinate cilia.
Massive Apoptosis Erodes Nasal Mucosa of Cocaine Abusers
Authors: Trimarchi Matteo , Miluzio Annarita , Nicolai Piero , Morassi Maria Laura , Bussi Mario , Marchisio Pier Carlo
Published: August 2018

Background

A threatening occurrence in some cocaine abusers is the progressive destruction of nasal structures (cocaine-induced midline destructive lesions [CIMDL]) that may end in a highly severe disease.

Methods

Thirty patients with CIMDL, 10 healthy patients, 10 patients affected by nasal polyposis, and 10 patients affected by Wegener granulomatosis were observed. Biopsy specimens of nasal mucosa were analyzed by immunohistochemistry for caspases −3, −9 and −8 and by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-digoxygenin nick end labeling (TUNEL) method. The time and concentration-dependent effects of cocaine in vitro were studied in HaCat cells by TUNEL and Western blotting.

Results

All CIMDL biopsy specimens showed abundant caspase-3 and caspase-9 expression but no caspase-8 positive cells. No obvious expression of any caspases was detected in biopsy specimens from healthy subjects or in patients affected by nasal polyposis or Wegener granulomatosis. In HaCat cells cellular changes were observed, which confirmed induction of massive apoptotic events. The rate of apoptosis in HaCat cells was dependent on the concentration of cocaine. After 1 hour, 2.5,5, and 10 mM of cocaine induced 16, 45, and 84% of apoptotic figures, respectively, while 6 hours of exposure increased apoptosis to 25, 54, and 94% at the same concentrations. Caspase expression and activation in HaCat cells treated with 100 μM and 1 mM of cocaine for 1 hour were confirmed by Western blotting.

Conclusion

Cultured epithelial cells show both time- and dose-dependent increases in apoptosis and cellular damage on cocaine treatment. We suggest that some abusers trigger CIMDL by abnormally boosting apoptosis within nasal epithelial cells. Cocaine abusers with higher apoptotic rates may predict whether they will eventually develop CIMDL.
Use of an Electronic Nose to Diagnose Bacterial Sinusitis
Authors: Thaler Erica R. , Hanson C. William
Published: August 2018

Background

Having previously established that an electronic nose (enose) can distinguish among bacteria samples, between cerebrospinal fluid leak and serum, and can identify patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia, we hypothesized that bacterial sinusitis could be diagnosed by sampling exhaled gas with an enose.

Methods

Using a nasal continuous positive airway pressure mask, we sampled gas exhaled through the nose of patients with sinusitis and compared them with controls. Data were first projected onto the principal components and then classified by support vector machine (SVM), a machine learning algorithm for pattern recognition.

Results

SVM analysis showed good discrimination using three approaches. First, 11 samples were used to create a training set that was used to predict whether individual samples from each set were a member of the control or infected sets. The enose was correct 98.4% of the time. Second, one-half of the samples from each of the same 11 control and infected groups were used to construct a training set, which was used to predict infection in the remaining samples. The enose was correct 82% of the time. Finally, 68 samples (34 positive and 34 controls) were analyzed using a leave-one-out scheme for creating training sets and testing sets. This method, designed to reflect the generalization property of the SVM classifier, scored a classification rate of 72%.

Conclusion

Using the enose to sample nasal exhalation from patients with suspected sinusitis, we were able to predict correctly the diagnosis of sinusitis in at least 72% of the samples. The next step will be to do forward prediction using this model.
The Sphenoid Sinus Natural Ostium is Consistently Medial to the Superior Turbinate
Authors: Millar D Anderson , Orlandi Richard R.
Published: August 2018

Background

This study was performed to determine the location of the natural ostium of the sphenoid sinus relative to the intact superior turbinate.

Methods

Forty-seven cadaveric specimens were examined. Mucosa over the sphenoethmoidal recess, superior turbinate, and posterior ethmoid was left intact. The position of the sphenoid sinus natural ostium relative to the superior turbinate was identified.

Results

The sphenoid ostium was identified in all specimens. In all specimens, the sphenoid ostium was found to be medial to the intact superior turbinate, notwithstanding lateral deflection of the posterior few millimeters of the superior turbinate in some cases.

Conclusion

The superior turbinate is an excellent landmark for the sphenoid sinus natural ostium. Previous observations of the ostium positioned lateral to the superior turbinate may have been caused by stripping of the superior turbinate mucosa before measurements were taken. In the intact specimen, the sphenoid ostium is reliably found medial to the superior turbinate.
Effects of Saline Sprays on Symptoms after Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Pinto Jayant M. , Elwany Samy , Baroody Fuad M. , Naclerio Robert M.
Published: August 2018

Background

Topical saline is commonly recommended after endoscopic sinus surgery. The efficacy in this situation has never been shown.

Methods

We performed a controlled clinical trial to determine the effect of saline sprays on symptoms after endoscopic sinus surgery. Patients were randomized to receive normal saline (NS; n = 20), buffered hypertonic saline (HS; n = 20), or no spray (n = 20). A questionnaire measured symptoms of nasal obstruction, discharge, pain, headache, and trouble sleeping. Daily pain medication usage was recorded.

Results

Symptom scores over the first 5 postoperative days showed higher nasal discharge scores in the HS group. Day-by-day comparisons showed that the HS group reported significantly higher pain scores during some postoperative days. The NS group showed similar scores to control.

Conclusion

NS and HS sprays do not have a beneficial effect on symptoms compared with no treatment. HS sprays enhanced nasal drainage and pain. Our results do not support prescribing saline sprays early after sinus surgery but do not exclude the use of topical saline in other forms or for other uses, although they may be used for other intentions.
Two-Year follow-up with Acoustic Rhinometry in Children
Authors: Millqvist Eva , Bende Mats
Published: August 2018

Background

This is an explorative study of growth-related nasal geometry in healthy children.

Methods

A total of 88 girls and boys between the ages of 4 and 16 years were followed over a period of 2 years by acoustic rhinometry. The registrations were correlated to height at each occasion.

Results

Although both the minimal cross-sectional area and the nasal volume increased in all age groups over 7 years, large individual variations in nasal geometry led to a weak relationship with growth.

Conclusion

In the undecongested nasal cavity in children, correlation of nasal geometry makes sense for height but not for age.
Composition of Hyaluronan Affects Wound Healing in the Rabbit Maxillary Sinus
Authors: Proctor Matthew , Proctor Kerry , Shu Xiao Zheng , McGill Lawrence D. , Prestwich Glenn D. , Orlandi Richard R.
Published: August 2018

Background

Hyaluronan (HA) is a ubiquitous component of the extracellular matrix. HA and its derivatives have been used in the sinuses to reduce scarring and possibly promote wound healing. However, in recent animal studies, HA esters exhibited inflammatory effects. Mitomycin C (MMC) is another potential antiscarring treatment. This study prospectively evaluated the effects of three different HA constructs on wound healing in the rabbit maxillary sinus: (i) a novel cross-linked HA hydrogel, (ii) the cross-linked HA gel containing covalently bound MMC, and (iii) a commercially available woven HA ester (Merogel).

Methods

Ostia were created with a 4-mm otologic drill in the maxillary sinuses of 15 New Zealand white rabbits with one side randomly chosen for treatment. After 14 or 21 days the size of the maxillary ostia were recorded and the tissue was examined under light microscopy.

Results

Sinuses treated with the novel HA and HA-MMC hydrogels showed an increased ostial diameter compared with untreated controls. Woven HA ester–treated sinuses showed no improvement, with a trend toward a smaller ostium than controls. Histological examination showed that woven HA ester tended to cause increased fibrosis and granulomatous inflammation, and heterophilia was slightly increased in the HA hydrogel-treated sinuses. Blinded observation noted foamy macrophages surrounding the residual woven HA ester in each specimen while no similar reaction was noted near the residual HA or HA-MMC hydrogels.

Conclusion

This study suggests that the degree of ostial narrowing, inflammation, and fibrosis depends on the formulation of the HA used. Minimal, if any, additional benefit is seen with addition of MMC to the HA hydrogel in this pilot study.
Suppression of Allergic Response by CpG Motif Oligodeoxynucleotide–House-Dust Mite Conjugate in Animal Model of Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Mo Ji-Hun , Park Seok-Won , Rhee Chae-Seo , Takabayashi Kenji , Lee Seung Sin , Quan Song-Hua , Kim In-Sang , Min Yang-Gi , Raz Eyal , Lee Chul Hee
Published: August 2018

Background

Although there have been many therapeutic options for allergic disease, the true allergen desensitization remains a challenging goal. The classic immunotherapy has a limited efficacy, is inconvenient, and has a risk of anaphylaxis. Recent reports revealed that immunostimulatory DNA sequences (ISS-oligdeoxynucleotide [ODN], CpG motif) act as a strong Th1 response–inducing adjuvants and that DNA-based vaccination might be an effective therapeutic option. In this study, we investigate whether ISS-ODN/Dermatophagoides farinae (Der f) conjugate has antiallergic effects in the allergic rhinitis mouse model, sensitive to house-dust mites. Der f is the most common allergen-inducing allergic rhinitis in Korea.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice were sensitized with crude extract of Der f. After injection of ISS-ODN or ISS-ODN/Der f conjugate, several parameters of allergic response were evaluated.

Results

Scratching and sneezing symptoms and eosinophilic infiltration into nasal mucosa were suppressed by injection with ISS-ODN only and ISS-ODN/Der f conjugate. Interleukin-5 level was decreased and interferon γ level was increased in nasal lavage fluid by injection of ISS-ODN/Der f conjugate. Der f–specific immunoglobulin E was decreased by injection of ISS-ODN or Der f /ISS-ODN conjugate; however, these were not statistically significant. Transforming growth factor β1 secreted by cultured splenocyte was increased significantly in ISS-ODN/Der f conjugate group.

Conclusion

These results suggest ISS-ODN/Der f conjugate induces an antiallergic effect and induces an increase in transforming growth factor β1 level in the allergic rhinitis model using Der f allergen. Allergic response developed by Der f allergen could be more effectively reduced by injection with ISS-ODN/Der f conjugate than by injection with ISS-ODN only.
Hemostatic Effect of Tranexamic Acid in Elective Nasal Surgery
Authors: Yaniv Eitan , Shvero Jacob , Hadar Tuvia
Published: August 2018

Background

Bleeding is the most frequent complication of nasal surgery. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the effectiveness of tranexamic acid (TA), an antifibrinolytic agent, in reducing bleeding during and after nasal surgery.

Methods

The study sample included 400 patients aged 18–60 years who underwent combination functional endoscopic sinus surgery with septoplasty and conchotomy. Two hundred patients were not given a hemostatic agent (control group) and 200 patients were administered 1 g of oral TA three times daily starting 2 hours before surgery, for 5 days. Bleeding was monitored during surgery and for 2 weeks postoperatively.

Results

Patients given oral TA showed significantly less operative and postoperative bleeding compared with controls. No patients required additional packing, compared with five patients in the control group. Adverse reactions to TA were minimal, and they disappeared when the treatment stopped.

Conclusion

TA is a safe and effective drug for the reduction of bleeding in nasal surgery. It may be recommended for routine use.
Does the use of the Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill Cause Changes in the Nasal Physiology in Young Women?
Authors: Wolstenholme Charlotte R. , Philpott Carl M. , Oloto Emeka J. , Murty George E.
Published: August 2018

Background

Changes in nasal physiology have been observed during pregnancy and the menstrual cycle. The role of female hormones in these changes is unclear. The aim is to investigate the effect of the modern combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP).

Methods

Eleven women were recruited from a family planning clinic. Anterior rhinoscopy, peak inspiratory flow rate, acoustic rhinometry, anterior rhinomanometry, mucociliary clearance time, and rhinitis quality-of-life questionnaire (RQLQ) scores were recorded at days 1 and 14 pre- and post-COCP.

Results

Increased nasal obstruction midcycle pre-COCP, with significant differences for anterior rhinoscopy (p = 0.001) and peak inspiratory flow rate (p = 0.022), was found. No statistical difference was shown between pre- and post-COCP results apart from day 1 anterior rhinoscopy findings (p = 0.05).

Conclusion

The modern COCP has no significant effect on nasal physiology.
American psychologists, the Central Intelligence Agency, and enhanced interrogation
Authors: Marks David F
Published: August 2018

In two commissioned articles, Health Psychology Open clarifies once and for all the role of two prominent American psychologists in the Central Intelligence Agency program of enhanced interrogation post 9/11. The Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Committee Study of the Central Intelligence Agency’s Detention and Interrogation Program and the Hoffman Report produced more questions than answers. In these historically significant articles, Martin Seligman and Joseph Matarazzo assert the truth about their actions and the lessons learned.
An Integrative Complexity Analysis of Religious and Irreligious Thinking
Authors: Houck Shannon C. , Conway Lucian G. , Parrow Kimberly , Luce Alex , Salvati Joeann M.
Published: August 2018

Stereotypical views cast religious believers as closed-minded, unthinking individuals, and irreligious persons as comparatively more intellectual and complex. But are these perceptions accurate? To investigate, three studies assessed differences between religious and irreligious thinking on Integrative Complexity (IC). In Study 1, six atheist–Christian opponents were selected for IC. Findings revealed that Christians were significantly more complex than their atheist counterparts overall, but variability existed across comparisons. Study 2 examined persons writing about what matters most to them, finding that people more likely to generate religious language had significantly higher complexity. Study 3 evaluated a famous atheist-to-religious convert (C.S. Lewis) who wrote comparable materials during an irreligious and religious phase of his life. Results demonstrated that Lewis’ complexity was higher during his religious phase. Taken together, Studies 1 to 3 suggest that religious thinkers are sometimes more complex than nonreligious thinkers and vice versa—variability that sometimes goes unnoticed in public circles.
Navigating the College Years: Developmental Trajectories and Gender Differences in Psychological Functioning, Cognitive-Affective Strategies, and Social Well-Being
Authors: Conley Colleen S. , Shapiro Jenna B. , Huguenel Brynn M. , Kirsch Alexandra C.
Published: August 2018

College presents unique opportunities and stressors that challenge psychosocial adjustment. This 4-year longitudinal study examines multiple aspects of adjustment in 5,532 college students from immediately pre-college across each of 4 academic years. Student adjustment generally worsens across the first 2 years in the domains of psychological functioning (decreased self-esteem; increased depression, anxiety, and stress), cognitive-affective strategies (decreased active emotional coping, increased avoidant emotional coping), and social adjustment (decreased social support from friends). The latter 2 years generally witness improvement, though only recovering to pre-college levels in self-esteem and active emotional coping for women, and just the latter for men. Women experience worse initial psychological functioning (more distress and lower self-esteem), though their self-esteem recovers by the end of college. Men exhibit worse friend support and active emotional coping, and a pattern of worsening avoidant emotional coping throughout college. Current findings highlight the first 2 years as an extended transition period when prevention programs may be especially needed.
A New Approach to Fear of Falls From Connections With the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Literature
Authors: Adamczewska Natalia , Nyman Samuel Robert
Published: August 2018

Fear of falling (FoF) is as an important psychological problem among older people. While it has been researched for around four decades, paradoxically there is no agreed definition of FoF. Confusion over the definition of FoF inhibits current understanding of empirical findings. The objective of this article is to critique current definitions of FoF and to present a novel theoretical model that aims to resolve theoretical misunderstanding. A narrative review was conducted to present definitions of FoF and concepts often conflated with it including fall-related self-efficacy and anxiety. Then, by drawing on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) theory and research, we present clear distinctions between the concepts. We argue that the presence or absence of anxiety determines whether FoF becomes maladaptive or adaptive, respectively, and that enhancing self-efficacy is key to optimizing postfall psychological recovery. The theoretical clarity presented will aid future research and application of evidence to the benefit older people.
The positioning of English as a key skill in the labour market of Marseille’s Tourist Office
Authors: WILSON ADAM
Published: August 2018

Marseille is reinventing itself as an urban tourist destination. The aim of this paper is to explore the effects that the resulting intensification of international tourism may have on the city, its population and its labour market. Drawing on previous research, language is shown to be a powerful lens through which to explore such phenomena. Therefore, an ethnographic research project was undertaken in Marseille’s Tourist Office, focussing on language use in encounters between international tourists and tourist advisers. The analyses of these data presented here show that English facilitates communication between these parties and thus becomes an indispensable resource for those working at the Tourist Office. It is thus shown how the English language is a key skill in the Tourist Office’s labour market and acts as a discriminatory factor in the recruitment of tourism professionals. In conclusion, some of the potential wider social repercussions are discussed.
Skills and their impact on labor market performance using European cross-country evidence
Authors: GIOTIS GEORGIOS
Published: August 2018

The impact of skills on labor market performance is a topic which has attracted a growing attention during the last years and has become a major concern among policy makers. In this paper, I discuss on the skill needs in Europe and skill shortages and surpluses as well. Moreover, I examine five important dimensions of skills: information skills, communication skills, problem solving skills, software skills and digital skills. For all of them I have found negative correlation with unemployment rates, findings which suggest that these skills can improve the employment prospects and reduce the skill mismatch in the workplace. Finally, I estimate the effect of three levels of education on unemployment rates across a sample of 28 European countries for the 1999-2016 time period. Both tertiary and elementary education seem to reduce unemployment for European countries, while secondary education is connected with increased unemployment rates.
Electromagnetic Fields in Biosphere: Benefit and Hazard
Authors: Markov M. , Markov M.
Published: August 2018

This paper is written in order to summarizes the role of electromagnetic fields in the origin and evolution of life on Earth, as well as hazard and benefit from electromagnetic fields. It is an attempt to show that today the mankind and the entire biosphere are subjected to a global experiment conducted without protocol, monitoring and even knowing the parameters of the applied electromagnetic fields. At the same time, electromagnetic fields used in magnetotherapy has been proven to be beneficial in treatment of various health problems. Magnetotherapy is non-invasive, safe, and easily applied methods to directly treat the site of injury, the source of pain, and inflammation. The development of advanced communication technologies year after year increases the hazard for the biosphere and mankind. The paper discuses the contradiction between scientists and technological engineers in the line thermal or nonthermal are effects of electromagnetic fields. The specific problems with children health are analyzed. It focused on the facts that at the end of the second decade of this century more aggressive mobile communications, such as 4G and especially 5G are being introduced in the North America and Europe without any attempt to evaluate the hazard for civilization.
Organization of commercial activity in the market infrastructure
Authors: Куимов Василий , Kuimov Vasiliy , Суслова Юлия , Suslova Yuliya , Щербенко Ева , Shcherbenko Eva , Владимирова Ольга , Vladimirova Ol'ga , Янкина Ирина , Yankina Irina , Ананьева Надежда , Ananeva Nadehda , Батраева Элина , Batraeva Elina , Берг Татьяна , Berg Tat'yana , Боровинский Дмитрий , Borovinskiy Dmitriy , Дягель Оксана , Dyagel' Oksana , Конева Ольга , Koneva Ol'ga , Рубан Ольга , Ruban Ol'ga , Нечушкина Елена , Nechushkina Ylena , Багузова Лариса , Baguzova Larisa , Смоленцева Любовь , Smolentseva Lyubov'
Published: August 2018

The textbook deals with the organization of commercial activity in the infrastructure of the market, in terms of modern changes in world and domestic trade from the standpoint of the functional-annual approach. The basis of the presentation is the program of the discipline "Organization of commercial activity in the market infrastructure" of the curriculum of the training direction 38.03.06 "trade business". The textbook outlines the basic theories and technological processes of the organization of commercial activity of the enterprise.
The textbook is designed to study in the undergraduate course, and will be useful for undergraduates, graduate students, teachers of economic disciplines, specialists of trade enterprises.
What is supplementing?
Authors: Witherow Briony
Published: August 2018

Briony Witherow, MSc RNutr. of Practical Equine Nutrition discusses the use of supplements and how best to choose one
Exertional rhabdomyolysis
Authors: Chilvers Ben
Published: August 2018

Ben Chilvers, BVMS Cert EM (Int) MRCVS, Priors Farm Equine Veterinary Practice discusses its diagnosis, treatment, and management
From the horse's mouth
Authors: English Gemma
Published: August 2018

Gemma English BAEDT explains why horse owners should choose a professional with a specific qualification in equine dentistry
Safe and effective worming
Authors: Watson Rebecca
Published: August 2018

Rebecca Watson MSc RVN states the obvious, but often ignored facts
Preparing Individuals With Disabilities for Inclusive Employment Through the Postsecondary Access and Training in Human Services (PATHS) Program
Authors: Zhang Dalun , Grenwelge Cheryl , Petcu Stefania
Published: August 2018

In an era of globalization, receiving postsecondary education (PSE) becomes necessary for young adults to gain meaningful employment and earn a decent income that supports his or her independent living. The same is true for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who desire for inclusive employment and community living. However, although an increasing number of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities have participated in various formats of PSE, this population is still severely underserved. Moreover, those who receive PSE are sometimes simply gaining a college experience or learning functional skills on college campuses. The purpose of this article is to present inclusive employment outcomes of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who graduated from the Postsecondary Access and Training in Human Services (PATHS) program. These individuals' successful stories demonstrate that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can complete a PSE program focusing on employment outcomes and start a professional career.
Ultra-Sensitive Mutation Detection and Genome-Wide DNA Copy Number Reconstruction by Error-Corrected Circulating Tumor DNA Sequencing
Authors: Mansukhani Sonia , Barber Louise J , Kleftogiannis Dimitrios , Moorcraft Sing Yu , Davidson Michael , Woolston Andrew , Proszek Paula Zuzanna , Griffiths Beatrice , Fenwick Kerry , Herman Bram , Matthews Nik , O'Leary Ben , Hulkki Sanna , Gonzalez De Castro David , Patel Anisha , Wotherspoon Andrew , Okachi Aleruchi , Rana Isma , Begum Ruwaida , Davies Matthew N , Powles Thomas , von Loga Katharina , Hubank Michael , Turner Nick , Watkins David , Chau Ian , Cunningham David , Lise Stefano , Starling Naureen , Gerlinger Marco
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

Circulating free DNA sequencing (cfDNA-Seq) can portray cancer genome landscapes, but highly sensitive and specific technologies are necessary to accurately detect mutations with often low variant frequencies.

METHODS

We developed a customizable hybrid-capture cfDNA-Seq technology using off-the-shelf molecular barcodes and a novel duplex DNA molecule identification tool for enhanced error correction.

RESULTS

Modeling based on cfDNA yields from 58 patients showed that this technology, requiring 25 ng of cfDNA, could be applied to >95% of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). cfDNA-Seq of a 32-gene, 163.3-kbp target region detected 100% of single-nucleotide variants, with 0.15% variant frequency in spike-in experiments. Molecular barcode error correction reduced false-positive mutation calls by 97.5%. In 28 consecutively analyzed patients with mCRC, 80 out of 91 mutations previously detected by tumor tissue sequencing were called in the cfDNA. Call rates were similar for point mutations and indels. cfDNA-Seq identified typical mCRC driver mutations in patients in whom biopsy sequencing had failed or did not include key mCRC driver genes. Mutations only called in cfDNA but undetectable in matched biopsies included a subclonal resistance driver mutation to anti-EGFR antibodies in KRAS, parallel evolution of multiple PIK3CA mutations in 2 cases, and TP53 mutations originating from clonal hematopoiesis. Furthermore, cfDNA-Seq off-target read analysis allowed simultaneous genome-wide copy number profile reconstruction in 20 of 28 cases. Copy number profiles were validated by low-coverage whole-genome sequencing.

CONCLUSIONS

This error-corrected, ultradeep cfDNA-Seq technology with a customizable target region and publicly available bioinformatics tools enables broad insights into cancer genomes and evolution.

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier

NCT02112357
Peronismo, Universidad y oposición reformista. El caso de la ciudad de La Plata/Ciudad Eva Perón (1943-1955)
Authors: Pis Diez Nayla
Published: August 2018

En este trabajo, presentamos una reconstrucción de los conflictos y las transformaciones que durante la década peronista atravesó la Universidad Nacional de La Plata ( UNLP ), considerando tanto la voz oficialista (los proyectos de gestiones peronistas) como la opositora (el accionar del reformismo). En primer lugar, indagaremos las transformaciones que atravesó la UNLP entre 1943 y 1955. En segundo lugar, analizaremos las acciones de oposición que los jóvenes reformistas agrupados en la Federación Universitaria de La Plata llevaron a cabo.
Los límites de la democracia argentina. Lecturas desde el proyecto de ley de defensa de la democracia de 1961
Authors: Azzolini Nicolás
Published: August 2018

En este artículo trabajamos con los debates que se dieron con relación al proyecto de ley de defensa de la democracia que fue presentado en el Congreso de la Nación en 1961. Pese a que el proyecto buscaba defender a la democracia contra el avance del comunismo y otros tipos de extremismos, dichos debates nos permiten reconstruir los distintitos sentidos ligados al concepto de democracia, las diferencias entre distintos sectores antiperonistas y los límites de un lenguaje político basado en la defensa de la democracia. Para ello, desde una metodología cualitativa, se analizan fuentes primarias.
“Remembering with advantages”: The memory of the Great War in Australia
Authors: Holbrook Carolyn
Published: August 2018

La memoria australiana de la Gran Guerra siempre se ha expresado de modo más efusivo en los ritos del día de Anzac: un acontecimiento que reconoce el aniversario de participación en la primera batalla en la Guerra de los australianos en Turquía, el 25 de abril de 1915. En las décadas tras los años 1914-1918, los efectos devastadores de la Guerra se  apaciguaron en parte gracias al orgullo que los australianos sentían en la reputación de sus soldados como combatientes. En la década de 1960 los ritos de Anzac estaban en un declive palpable. Los australianos jóvenes eran reacios a los valores de la generación de la Gran Guerra y creían que las prácticas conmemorativas del día de Anzac glorificaban la Guerra. A pesar de la creencia generalizada de que el día de Anzac moriría junto al último de los veteranos, este ha resurgido de modo notable. Este hecho se puede explicar por la reconstrucción de la leyenda de Anzac, que ha evolucionado desde el mito anclado en el patriotismo racial británico y el nacionalismo marcial hacia uno que habla en el idioma moderno del trauma, el sufrimiento y la empatía. Lo que permanece de la leyenda original de Anzac es la creencia sostenida de modo global por los australianos contemporáneos de que su conciencia nacional nació en Gallipoli, el 25 de abril de 1915.
Una Revisión sobre Materiales para Almacenamiento de Energía Solar Térmica
Authors: Bravo Hidalgo Debrayan
Published: August 2018

Context: The energy and environmental panorama that our societies confront nowadays, demand for renew-able, clean and abundant sources of energy, not reliant on fossil fuels and detached from the geopolitical pressures the latter represent. In this scenario solar thermal energy arises as a viable and functional option. The main disadvantage of this emerging source of energy lies in the intermittent availability of solar radiation. Because of this difficulty, efficient processes for the storage of thermal solar energy becomes a highly relevant area of research. The aim of this paper is to present a survey on this topic.Method: A bibliographic review was carried out using the Scopus catalog. The search criteria for this purpose was defined using the following terms: solar+thermal+energy+storage+materials. This search pattern was applied to the title, abstracts and keywords of the contributions. Using the bibliometric tools of the citation database, the most cited documents were selected and the survey was developed.Results: A growing interest in the scientific community regarding this energy practice is evident starting from 2010. Characteristics, advances and trends in systems that use thermal energy storage materials are presented for sensible and latent heat, materials compound changeover phase, and finally thermo-chemical thermal storage materials.Conclusions: Improving the thermal conductivity of thermal storage materials is an important trend in current re-search. On the other hand, profitable practices for micro-encapsulated phase change materials and composite materials are analyzed. The optimization of thermo-physical properties as the melting point of thermal storage materials is explored with techniques such as eutectic mixtures and hydro-carbon chain length. Although the thermochemical materials are still in laboratory stage, they have a great potential as thermal storage materials in the future, given their large energy storage capacity per unit volume.
New Algorithms for δγ-Order Preserving Matching
Authors: Mendivelso Juan , Niquefa Rafael , Pinzón Yoan , Hernández Germán
Published: August 2018

Context: Order-preserving matching regards the relative order of strings. However, its application areas require more flexibility in the matching paradigm. We advance in this direction in this paper that extends our previous work [27].Method: We define γ -order preserving matching as an approximate variant of order-preserving matching. We devise two solutions for it based on segment and Fenwick trees: segtreeBA and bitBA.Results: We experimentally show the efficiency of our algorithms compared to the ones presented in [26] (naiveA and updateBA). Also, we present applications of our approach in music retrieval and stock market analysis.Conclusions: Even though the worst-case time complexity of the proposed algorithms (namely, O(nm log m)) is higher than the Ѳ(nm)-time complexity of updateBA, their Ω (n log n) lower bound makes them more efficient in practice. On the other hand, we show that our approach is useful to identify similarity in music melodies and stock price trends through real application examples.