bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Sphingomyelin Synthase 1 Deficiency on Sphingolipid Metabolism and Atherosclerosis in Mice
Authors: Li Zhiqiang , Fan Yifan , Liu Jing , Li Yan , Huan Chongmin , Bui Hai H. , Kuo Ming-Shang , Park Tae-Sik , Cao Guoqing , Jiang Xian-Cheng
Published: May 2012

Objective—

Sphingomyelin synthase (SMS) catalyzes the conversion of ceramide to sphingomyelin and sits at the crossroads of sphingolipid biosynthesis. SMS has 2 isoforms: SMS1 and SMS2. Although they have the same SMS activity, they are different enzymes with distinguishable subcellular localizations and cell expression patterns. It is conceivable that these differences could yield different consequences, in terms of sphingolipid metabolism and its related atherogenesis.

Methods and Results—

We created
Sms1
gene knockout mice and found that
Sms1
deficiency significantly decreased plasma, liver, and macrophage sphingomyelin (59%, 45%, and 54%, respectively), but only had a marginal effect on ceramide levels. Surprisingly, we found that
Sms1
deficiency dramatically increased glucosylceramide and GM3 levels in plasma, liver, and macrophages (4- to 12-fold), whereas
Sms2
deficiency had no such effect. We evaluated the total SMS activity in tissues and found that
Sms1
deficiency causes 77% reduction in SMS activity in macrophages, indicating SMS1 is the major SMS in macrophages. Moreover,
Sms1
-deficient macrophages have a significantly higher glucosylceramide synthase activity. We also found that
Sms1
deficiency significantly attenuated toll-like 4 receptor–mediated nuclear factor-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase activation after lipopolysaccharide treatment. To evaluate atherogenicity, we transplanted
Sms1
knockout mouse bone marrow into low-density lipoprotein receptor knockout mice (
Sms1
–/–
→Ldlr
–/–
). After 3 months on a western diet, these animals showed a significant decrease of atherosclerotic lesions in the root and the entire aorta (35% and 44%,
P
<0.01, respectively) and macrophage content in lesions (51%,
P
<0.05), compared with wild-type
→Ldlr
–/–
mice.

Conclusion—

Sms1
deficiency decreases sphingomyelin, but dramatically increases the levels of glycosphingolipids. Atherosclerosis in
Sms1
–/–
→Ldlr
–/–
mice is significantly decreased.
A Novel Regulator of Macrophage Activation
Authors: Zhuang Guoqing , Meng Cong , Guo Xin , Cheruku Patali S. , Shi Lei , Xu Hang , Li Honggui , Wang Gang , Evans Ashley R. , Safe Stephen , Wu Chaodong , Zhou Beiyan
Published: May 2012

Background—

Macrophage activation plays a crucial role in regulating adipose tissue inflammation and is a major contributor to the pathogenesis of obesity-associated cardiovascular diseases. On various types of stimuli, macrophages respond with either classic (M1) or alternative (M2) activation. M1- and M2-mediated signaling pathways and corresponding cytokine production profiles are not completely understood. The discovery of microRNAs provides a new opportunity to understand this complicated but crucial network for macrophage activation and adipose tissue function.

Methods and Results—

We have examined the activity of microRNA-223 (miR-223) and its role in controlling macrophage functions in adipose tissue inflammation and systemic insulin resistance. miR-223
−/−
mice on a high-fat diet exhibited an increased severity of systemic insulin resistance compared with wild-type mice that was accompanied by a marked increase in adipose tissue inflammation. The specific regulatory effects of miR-223 in myeloid cell–mediated regulation of adipose tissue inflammation and insulin resistance were then confirmed by transplantation analysis. Moreover, using bone marrow–derived macrophages, we demonstrated that miR-223 is a novel regulator of macrophage polarization, which suppresses classic proinflammatory pathways and enhances the alternative antiinflammatory responses. In addition, we identified Pknox1 as a genuine miR-223 target gene and an essential regulator for macrophage polarization.

Conclusion—

For the first time, this study demonstrates that miR-223 acts to inhibit Pknox1, suppressing proinflammatory activation of macrophages; thus, it is a crucial regulator of macrophage polarization and protects against diet-induced adipose tissue inflammatory response and systemic insulin resistance.
Theta Burst Stimulation Over the Right Broca's Homologue Induces Improvement of Naming in Aphasic Patients
Authors: Kindler Jochen , Schumacher Rahel , Cazzoli Dario , Gutbrod Klemens , Koenig Monica , Nyffeler Thomas , Dierks Thomas , Müri René M.
Published: May 2012

Background and Purpose—

Improvements of language production in aphasic patients have been reported following repeated 1-Hz transcranial magnetic stimulation over the nondamaged right hemisphere. Most studies examined aphasic patients in the chronic phase. The effect of transcranial magnetic stimulation application in acute or subacute patients has not been systematically studied. We aimed to evaluate whether continuous theta burst stimulation, an inhibitory protocol with a shorter application time than the common 1-Hz protocol, is able to improve naming performance in aphasic patients in different poststroke phases.

Methods—

Eighteen right-handed aphasic patients performed a picture naming task and a language independent alertness test before and after the application of theta burst stimulation over the intact right Broca's homologue localized by the 10–20 electroencephalogram system in a randomized, sham-controlled, crossover trial.

Results—

We found that naming performance was significantly better, and naming latency was significantly shorter, after theta burst stimulation than after the sham intervention. Patients who responded best were in the subacute phase after stroke.

Conclusions—

This setting with the short theta burst stimulation application time and the simple stimulation localization procedure is suitable for clinical purposes.
Leukoaraiosis Predicts Parenchymal Hematoma After Mechanical Thrombectomy in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Shi Zhong-Song , Loh Yince , Liebeskind David S. , Saver Jeffrey L. , Gonzalez Nestor R. , Tateshima Satoshi , Jahan Reza , Feng Lei , Vespa Paul M. , Starkman Sidney , Salamon Noriko , Villablance J. Pablo , Ali Latisha K. , Ovbiagele Bruce , Kim Doojin , Viñuela Fernando , Duckwiler Gary R.
Published: May 2012

Background and Purpose—

The purpose of this study was to determine whether leukoaraiosis (LA) predicts hemorrhagic transformation and poor outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke treated by mechanical thrombectomy.

Methods—

We retrospectively analyzed patients with anterior circulation stroke treated with Merci devices and identified LA in the deep white matter (DWM) and periventricular white matter on the preintervention MR images. We dichotomized patients into those with moderate or severe LA in the DWM versus those without. Hemorrhage rates and outcomes were evaluated between 2 groups. We analyzed the association of moderate or severe LA with hemorrhagic transformation and poor outcome.

Results—

Twenty-six of 105 patients had moderate or severe LA in the DWM. Patients with moderate or severe LA in the DWM were older, had more severe neurological deficits and worse outcome, had higher rates of hemorrhagic transformation and parenchymal hematoma, but had equivalent rates of hemorrhagic infarct and subarachnoid hemorrhage when compared with those without. Patients with only periventricular LA did not have a higher rate of parenchymal hematoma. Moderate or severe LA in the DWM was an independent predictor of hemorrhagic transformation (OR, 3.4;
P
=0.019) and parenchymal hematoma (OR, 6.3;
P
=0.005). Patients with parenchymal hematoma were less often independent (modified Rankin Scale ≤2, 3.8% versus 32.5%;
P
=0.003) and had greater in-hospital mortality (50% versus 10.4%;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

Moderate or severe LA in the DWM increases the risk of parenchymal hematoma after Merci thrombectomy for patients with acute stroke. These findings require validation in a larger prospective study.
Citicoline Enhances Neuroregenerative Processes After Experimental Stroke in Rats
Authors: Diederich Kai , Frauenknecht Katrin , Minnerup Jens , Schneider Barbara K. , Schmidt Antje , Altach Elena , Eggert Verena , Sommer Clemens J. , Schäbitz Wolf-Rüdiger
Published: May 2012

Background and Purpose—

The neuroprotective potential of citicoline in acute ischemic stroke has been shown in many experimental studies and, although the exact mechanisms are still unknown, a clinical Phase III trial is currently underway. Our present study was designed to check whether citicoline also enhances neuroregeneration after experimental stroke.

Methods—

Forty Wistar rats were subjected to photothrombotic stroke and treated either with daily injections of citicoline (100 mg/kg) or vehicle for 10 consecutive days starting 24 hours after ischemia induction. Sensorimotor tests were performed after an adequate training period at Days 1, 10, 21, and 28 after stroke. Then brains were removed and analyzed for infarct size, glial scar formation, neurogenesis, and ligand binding densities of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitter receptors.

Results—

Animals treated with citicoline showed a significantly better neurological outcome at Days 10, 21, and 28 after ischemia, which could not be attributed to differences in infarct volumes or glial scar formation. However, neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus, subventricular zone, and peri-infarct area was significantly increased by citicoline. Furthermore, enhanced neurological outcome after citicoline treatment was associated with a shift toward excitation in the perilesional cortex.

Conclusions—

Our present data demonstrate that, apart from the well-known neuroprotective effects in acute ischemic stroke, citicoline also possesses a substantial neuroregenerative potential. Thanks to its multimodal effects, easy applicability, and history as a well-tolerated drug, promising possibilities of neurological treatment including chronic stroke open up.
Social Indicators of Deception
Authors: Driskell James E. , Salas Eduardo , Driskell Tripp
Published: May 2012

Objective:

This study addresses a practical homeland security issue of considerable current concern: In a situation in which the opportunity exists to question or interview concurrently two or more suspects, how does one determine truth or deception at a social level?

Background:

Recent world events have led to an increased emphasis on the capacity to detect deception, especially in military, security, and law enforcement settings. In many screening or checkpoint situations, the opportunity exists to question two or more suspects regarding their involvement in some activity, yet investigators know very little regarding characteristics of speech or behavior that are exhibited between two suspects that indicate truth or deception.

Method:

We conducted an empirical study in which pairs of police officers and firefighters who had served together as partners took part. In the “truth” conditions, each dyad described a recent event in which they had actually taken part, and in the “deceptive” conditions, each dyad fabricated a story that did not take place. We expected that the officers in the truth-telling dyads would be able to draw on shared or transactive memory of the actual event they had participated in and would describe this event in a more interactive manner than would those in deceptive dyads.

Results:

Results indicated greater evidence of synchrony of behavior as well as more interactive behaviors, such as mutual gaze and speech transitions, in truthful dyads than in deceptive dyads.

Conclusion:

This research provides a unique perspective on detecting deception in a social context, and the results have both theoretical and practical value.

Application:

These results can inform training programs and refine strategies used by screeners in field settings.
Suicide in the absence of mental disorder? A review of psychological autopsy studies across countries
Authors: Milner Allison , Sveticic Jerneja , De Leo Diego
Published: May 2012

Background:

While numerous past reviews of psychological autopsy (PA) studies have examined the relationship between mental disorder and suicide, there has been little systematic investigation of suicide occurring in the absence of any identifiable psychiatric condition.

Aim:

This article reviews available literature on the topic by considering Axis I, sub-threshold, mild disorders and personality disorders.

Method:

We conducted a systematic review of PA studies from 2000 onwards. Studies included in the review had to clearly describe the proportion of suicide cases without a classifiable mental disorder or sub-threshold condition.

Results:

Up to 66.7% of suicide cases remained without diagnosis in those studies that only examined Axis I disorders ( n = 14). Approximately 37.1% of suicide cases had no psychiatric condition in research papers that assessed personality and Axis I disorders ( n = 9), and 37% of suicides had no Axis I, sub-threshold/mild conditions ( n = 6). In general, areas in China and India had a higher proportion of suicides without a diagnosis than studies based in Europe, North America or Canada.

Conclusion:

Variation in the proportion of suicide cases without a psychiatric condition may reflect cultural specificities in the conceptualization and diagnosis of mental disorder, as well as methodological and design-related differences between studies.
A Study of Music Students’ Tempo Changes of a Soloist’s Performance of Mozart’s 1st Horn Concerto
Authors: Johnson Christopher M. , Madsen Clifford K. , Geringer John M.
Published: May 2012

The purpose of the present investigation was to investigate music students’ tempo changes of a soloist’s performance in an excerpt from Mozart’s Concerto No. 1 in D Major for Horn and Orchestra. We then compared the composite rubato pattern to tendencies found in a previous investigation using Mozart’s Concerto No. 2 in E ♭ Major for Horn and Orchestra. Data were collected directly from listeners’ Continuous Response Digital Interface (CRDI) dial movements, which controlled the instantaneous tempo of the solo horn performance. Some tendencies from previous rubato performances were replicated; however, overall performances more closely reflected the previous performances of the lowest rated horn performers than those judged as the highest caliber performers.
Hierarchical Linear Modeling Meta-Analysis of Single-Subject Design Research
Authors: Gage Nicholas A. , Lewis Timothy J.
Published: May 2012

The identification of evidence-based practices continues to provoke issues of disagreement across multiple fields. One area of contention is the role of single-subject design (SSD) research in providing scientific evidence. The debate about SSD’s utility centers on three issues: sample size, effect size, and serial dependence. One potential method for addressing all three issues is hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) meta-analysis. This study explored the utility of HLM meta-analysis of SSD. A total of 206 functional behavior assessment–based intervention outcome graphs were aggregated to assess whether HLM meta-analysis could identify (a) an overall effect size and statistical significance for mean shift, slope, and variability; (b) how the results mapped to two additional effect size calculations; and (c) whether the procedure met SSD synthesis criteria outlined by Wolery, Busick, Reichow, and Barton.
Clients’ Willingness to Incorporate Religion or Spirituality in Counseling
Authors: Diallo Abdoulaye
Published: May 2012

A total of 84 individuals with addiction issues (e.g., drugs, sex, weight, food, and codependency) were asked about their willingness to incorporate religion or spirituality in their counseling. These respondents expressed willingness to deal with religion or spirituality in counseling if the counselor was knowledgeable about their religion or spirituality. Degree of willingness was significantly related to clients’ religious background and age.
Prediction of Membership in Rehabilitation Counseling Professional Associations
Authors: Phillips Brian N. , Leahy Michael J.
Published: May 2012

Declining membership is a concerning yet poorly understood issue affecting professional associations across disciplines (Bauman, 2008). Rehabilitation counseling association membership is in decline even while number of certified rehabilitation counselors continues to increase (Leahy, 2009). Factors influencing rehabilitation counseling professional association membership were explored and motives for membership examined using tenets of social exchange and social identity theories. A sample of 1,257 professionals was obtained from the databases of Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification, American Rehabilitation Counseling Association, National Rehabilitation Counseling Association, and Rehabilitation Counselors and Educators Association. Results support tenets of exchange and identity theories for membership motives, with perceived value of membership and professional identity salience predicting current membership. Graduate programs and the workplace were also shown to play an important role in predicting membership status. Results provide multiple individual and organizational means for addressing professional association membership decline.
A Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy of Different Types of Parental Involvement Programs for Urban Students
Authors: Jeynes William
Published: May 2012

This meta-analysis of 51 studies examines the relationship between various kinds of parental involvement programs and the academic achievement of pre-kindergarten-12th-grade school children. Analyses determined the effect sizes for various parental involvement programs overall and subcategories of involvement. Results indicate a significant relationship between parental involvement programs overall and academic achievement, both for younger (preelementary and elementary school) and older (secondary school) students as well as for four types of parental involvement programs. Parental involvement programs, as a whole, were associated with higher academic achievement by .3 of a standard deviation unit. The significance of these results is discussed.
Quality and Access
Authors: Wirgau Jessica S.
Published: May 2012

This study uses discourse analysis to examine the role of storylines in an agency’s exercise of bureaucratic autonomy wherein agencies are able to pursue their policy goals independent, and sometimes in defiance, of political superiors. Most theories of bureaucratic autonomy typically fall into two categories: those based on task-specificity and those based on the agency’s ability to build a reputation for effectiveness. The author contends that examining the storylines surrounding an agency’s creation and purpose provides for a richer application and integration of existing theories. This study focuses on the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) as an exploratory case study and chronicles the storylines associated with its increasing autonomy from 1965 to 1980 and the subsequent challenges to that autonomy in the culture wars of the 1990s. It suggests that storylines associated with the role of the arts in defining and maintaining American identity in a Cold War context were powerful tools for building autonomy at the NEA.
Effects of Peer-Mediated Implementation of Visual Scripts in Middle School
Authors: Ganz Jennifer B. , Heath Amy K. , Lund Emily M. , Camargo Siglia P. H. , Rispoli Mandy J. , Boles Margot , Plaisance Lauren
Published: May 2012

Although research has investigated the impact of peer-mediated interventions and visual scripts on social and communication skills in children with autism spectrum disorders, no studies to date have investigated peer-mediated implementation of scripts. This study investigated the effects of peer-implemented scripts on a middle school student with autism, intellectual impairments, and speech-language impairment via a multiple baseline single-case research design across behaviors. The target student demonstrated improvements in three communicative behaviors when implemented by a trained peer; however, behaviors did not generalize to use with an untrained typically developing peer.
Psychological Experience of Parents of Children With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Whittemore Robin , Jaser Sarah , Chao Ariana , Jang Myoungock , Grey Margaret
Published: May 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this review is to describe the prevalence of psychological distress in parents of children with type 1 diabetes (T1DM), the relationship between parental psychological distress and health outcomes, and parents’ psychological experience of having a child with T1DM. Clinical and research implications are presented.

Method

A systematic mixed-studies review was undertaken to review the quantitative and qualitative research on the parental experience of having a child with T1DM. A total of 34 articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review.

Results

The prevalence of parental psychological distress across all studies ranged from 10% to 74%, with an average of 33.5% of parents reporting distress at diagnosis and 19% of parents reporting distress 1 to 4 years after diagnosis. Parental psychological distress in parents of children with T1DM, regardless of how it was defined, was associated with higher child self-report of stress and depressive symptoms, more problematic child behavior, and lower child self-report of quality of life. Parental psychological distress also had negative effects on diabetes management. Themes of the qualitative synthesis indicated that parents perceived T1DM as a difficult diagnosis that contributed to significant family disruption. Adjustment occurred over time; however, ongoing stress was experienced.

Conclusions

Screening for psychological distress in parents of children with T1DM is indicated, and preventive interventions are needed.
Mapping Structural Influences on Sex and HIV Education in Church and Secular Schools in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mpofu Elias , Mutepfa Magen Mhaka , Hallfors Denise Dion
Published: May 2012

The authors used state-of-the-art concept mapping approaches to examine structural institutional effects of church and secular high schools on the types of sexual and HIV-prevention education messages transmitted to learners in Zimbabwe. Participants were school teachers ( n = 26), school counselors ( n = 28), and pastors involved in student pastoral care ( n = 14; males = 27, females = 41). They reported on messages perceived to influence sexual decisions of learners in their school setting. The self-report data were clustered into message types using concept mapping and contrasted for consistency of content and structure both between and within type of school. The authors also engaged in curriculum document study with member checks in the participant schools to determine convergence of the evidence on school-type effects of the messages transmitted to students. Church schools prioritized faith-informed sexual and HIV-prevention messages, whereas both types of schools prioritized Life skills education and a future focus. Secular schools prioritized sex and HIV messages in the context of community norms. Facts about HIV and AIDS were relatively underemphasized by church schools. The implicit knowledge values that differentiate types of schools influence learner access to information important for their sexual decisions.
Initial Evaluation of a Smoking Cessation Program Incorporating Physical Activity Promotion to Greek Adults in Antismoking Clinics
Authors: Hassandra Mary , Kofou Georgia , Zourbanos Nikos , Gratsani Stamatia , Zisi Vassiliki , Theodorakis Yiannis
Published: May 2012

The purpose of this study was to evaluate an initial application of a smoking cessation program that integrated the promotion of physical activity (PA) as a cessation aid to Greek adults in antismoking clinics. From an initial pool of 50, 12 men and 28 women from Central Greece completed the program, and 18 of them succeeded in quitting for 1 year after the program. Additionally, after the program, they increased their PA. Suggestions for future applications of the program are further discussed.
Evaluation of Novel Acute Urinary Rat Kidney Toxicity Biomarker for Subacute Toxicity Studies in Preclinical Trials
Authors: Fuchs Tobias Christian , Frick Katharina , Emde Barbara , Czasch Stephanie , Landenberg Friedrich von , Hewitt Philip
Published: May 2012

Novel urinary protein biomarkers for the detection of acute renal damage, recently accepted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, European Medicines Agency, and Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (Japan), now have to be validated in practice. Limited data regarding the performance of these acute markers after subacute or subchronic treatment are publicly available. To increase the area of applicability of these markers, it is important to evaluate the ability to detect them after 28 days of treatment or even longer. Wistar rats were treated with three doses of cisplatin, vancomycin, or puromycin to induce renal damage. Twelve candidate proteins were measured by Luminex xMAP–based WideScreen assays, MesoScale Discovery–based MULTI-SPOT technology, or RENA-strip dipstick assay after 28 days. Treatment with all three model compounds resulted in a dose-dependent increase in urinary biomarkers, specific for the observed areas within the nephron, determined histopathologically. The most promising biomarkers in this study were NGAL, Kim-1, osteopontin, clusterin, RPA-1, and GSTYb1, detected by multiplexing technologies. The RENA-strip dipstick assay delivered good diagnostic results for vancomycin-treated but not for cisplatin- or puromycin-treated rats. Taken together, the data show that these new biomarkers are robust and measurable for longer term studies to predict different types of kidney toxicities.
Tissue Kim-1 and Urinary Clusterin as Early Indicators of Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury in Rats
Authors: Vinken Petra , Starckx Sofie , Barale-Thomas Erio , Looszova Adriana , Sonee Manisha , Goeminne Nick , Versmissen Loes , Buyens Kristel , Lampo Ann
Published: May 2012

The kidney is one of the main targets of drug toxicity, and early detection of renal damage is critical in preclinical drug development. A model of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in male Sprague Dawley rats treated for 1, 3, 5, 7, or 14 days at 1 mg/kg/day was used to monitor the spatial and temporal expression of various indicators of kidney toxicity during the progression of acute kidney injury (AKI). As early as 1 day after cisplatin treatment, positive kidney injury molecule-1 (Kim-1) immunostaining, observed in the outer medulla of the kidney, and changes in urinary clusterin indicated the onset of proximal tubular injury in the absence of functional effects. After 3 days of treatment, Kim-1 protein levels in urine increased more than 20-fold concomitant with a positive clusterin immunostaining and an increase in urinary osteopontin. Tubular basophilia was also noted, while serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels were elevated only after 5 days, together with tubular degeneration. In conclusion, tissue Kim-1 and urinary clusterin were the most sensitive biomarkers for detection of cisplatin-induced kidney damage. Thereafter, urinary Kim-1 and osteopontin, as well as clusterin immunostaining accurately correlated with the histopathological findings. When AKI is suspected in preclinical rat studies, Kim-1, clusterin, and osteopontin should be part of urinalysis and/or IHC can be performed.
Association of Cadherin23 Single Nucleotide Polymorphism with Age‐Related Hearing Impairment in Han Chinese
Authors: Hwang Juen‐Haur , Liu Kris Sun , Wu Chien‐Chi , Liu Tien‐Chen
Published: May 2012

Objective

Genetic variation of cadheri23 (cdh23; 753G>A in exon 7) has been implicated with age‐related hearing impairment (ARHI) in mice. This study aimed to test the association of the CDH23 tag single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in intron 7 with ARHI in Han Chinese.

Study Design

Individual cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary medical center.

Subjects and Methods

A total of 1175 Han Chinese subjects were divided into the case group (n = 310, 26% with poorest hearing) and the control group (n = 308, the 26% with best hearing) according to the Zhigh score converted from the original frequency‐specific hearing thresholds. The CDH23 SNP locus (rs7087735: C/T) in intron 7 (coordinate: 72996763) shown in the HapMap was genotyped with correlation to the hearing phenotype.

Results

The genotype distributions of CDH23 (CC/CT/TT) were not significantly different between the case and control group (P =. 489). Compared with genotype CC, the odds ratios of the genotypes CT and TT for ARHI were not significantly different after adjustment for other environmental factors (P =. 299 for CT; P =. 610 for TT).

Conclusions

Despite that the Ahl allele of Cdh23 had been implicated with ARHI in mice, we found no positive association of the CDH23 tag SNP in intron 7 with ARHI in Han Chinese.
Distant Metastases and Survival Prediction in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Lee Dong Hwan , Kim Min Joo , Roh Jong‐Lyel , Kim Sung‐Bae , Choi Seung‐Ho , Nam Soon Yuhl , Kim Sang Yoon
Published: May 2012

Objective

This study was designed to identify the risk factors associated with distant metastases (DM) and survival outcomes in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Study Design

Database analysis plus chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care academic medical center.

Subjects and Methods

Four hundred four eligible patients were involved who were treated with a minimum 2‐year follow‐up from January 2005 through August 2009. Confirmation of DM was performed by histopathology or follow‐up imaging. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used for factors predictive of DM. The survival of patients was calculated by the Kaplan‐Meier method.

Results

Thirty‐six of the 404 eligible patients (8.9%) developed DM, most frequently in the lungs (80.6%). Univariate analyses revealed that T and N classifications, lymphovascular invasion and perineural invasion of the primary tumor, and locoregional recurrences were each significantly associated with the development of DM (P <. 05). Multivariate analyses showed that T and N classifications and locoregional recurrences were independent predictors of DM (P <. 05). The overall 1‐ and 2‐year survival rates of the 36 patients with DMs were 40.6% and 13.5%, respectively. Metastases to more than 1 organ negatively affected patient survival (P <. 001).

Conclusion

Patients with advanced tumors, nodal involvement, or locoregional recurrences may require more frequent surveillance for the development of DMs.
Surveillance Low‐Dose Chest Computed Tomography for Head and Neck Cancer Patients
Authors: Bornstein Sophia , Wax Mark , Holland John
Published: May 2012

Based on the recent results of the National Lung Cancer Screening Trial, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network now recommends annual screening with low‐dose computed tomography for high‐risk individuals (generally defined as 45‐ to 60‐year‐old current or former smokers). As head and neck cancer patients are at a high risk for (second) lung cancers, annual surveillance computed tomography should be considered for head and neck cancer patients.
Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy with Double Posteriorly Based Nasal and Lacrimal Flaps
Authors: Khalifa Mohammed A. , Ragab Sameh M. , Saafan Magdy E. , El‐Guindy Ahmed S.
Published: May 2012

Objectives

To conduct the first prospective randomized controlled trial assessing and comparing the safety and efficacy of endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) with double posteriorly based nasal and lacrimal flaps to conventional endoscopic DCR in adult patients with acquired complete nasolacrimal obstruction.

Study Design

A prospective randomized controlled study.

Setting

General hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Seventy‐four adult patients with a total of 80 procedures were recruited to undergo endoscopic DCR. They were prospectively equally randomized into 2 groups: endoscopic DCR with flaps (group I) and conventional endoscopic DCR (group II). Regular follow‐up settings were done to document the patient’s subjective improvement, judge ostium patency on irrigation, and record any complications.

Results

Endoscopic DCR with flaps had a higher (92.1%) but nonsignificant difference in success rate when compared with conventional endoscopic DCR (87.4%). There was no significant difference between the 2 techniques in operative time, adverse events, and tolerability of the technique to be done under local anesthesia with minimal sedation. Group I demonstrated a significantly lower number of debridement sessions than did group II.

Conclusion

Endoscopic DCR with double posteriorly based nasal and lacrimal flaps provides a viable alternative to conventional endoscopic DCR in managing acquired nasolacrimal duct obstructions in adults. It has a comparable success rate, operative time, and safety profile, with a suggestion of a better healing profile in terms of mucosal recovery, wound healing, and less need for debridement sessions.
Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Monitoring during Thyroid Surgery
Authors: Phelan Eimear , Potenza Andre , Slough Cristian , Zurakowski David , Kamani Dipti , Randolph Gregory
Published: May 2012

Objective

Injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) remains a significant cause of morbidity during thyroid surgery. Intraoperative nerve monitoring (IONM) is being applied in many centers to facilitate nerve identification. The aim of this study was to elucidate normative human vagal and recurrent laryngeal nerve electromyograhic (EMG) parameters during standard IONM application.

Study Design

A prospective IONM study conducted over an 8‐month period. Internal review board (IRB) approval was obtained.

Settings

Department of Otolaryngology, Division of Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston.

Subjects and Methods

All patients who were scheduled for routine thyroid, parathyroid, or neck exploration surgery were invited to participate. All patients had a preoperative and postoperative laryngeal examination to assess vocal cord function. Any patient with an abnormal preoperative laryngeal examination was excluded.

Results

Fifty‐eight patients participated in this study. The right and left RLN latencies were similar. The left vagus latency was greater than the right vagus but was not significant. The RLN latency was significantly less than the vagus nerve. The right vagus nerve amplitude was significantly greater than the left. There was no difference between male and female amplitudes for either the RLN or vagus nerve.

Conclusion

This study highlights the electrophysiological/EMG differences and similarities between the RLN and vagus nerve. Normative amplitude measurements for bilateral RLN and vagus nerve stimulation are presented. There are limited data available in the literature on normal RLN and vagal EMG signals generated during thyroid surgery.
Political signification of the entrepreneur: Temporal analysis of constructs, agency and reification
Authors: Perren Lew , Dannreuther Charles
Published: May 2012

This article explores the political signification of the term entrepreneur in UK parliamentary debates over the past forty years. Following a review of the literature, a need is identified to understand the construction of the entrepreneur in political discourse. Concern here is not with the prosaic cataloguing of policies or definitions, but with exploring shifts in the discursive constructs of the entrepreneur that underlie political practice. To explore these constructions a large longitudinal dataset is systematically condensed, while maintaining sensitivity to the nuances of meaning. A corpus-based linguistics approach is undertaken. This combines the computational analysis of significant collocates, that is important words (concepts) that surround the term entrepreneur, with the richness of qualitative analysis. Patterns of reification, agency and structure are identified in the portrayed entrepreneurial constructs. The philosophical and practical implications of these patterns are discussed and proposals are made for using corpus techniques in international comparative analyses.
Preferences for Careers in Public Work
Authors: Rose Roger P.
Published: May 2012

Public service motivation (PSM) research has demonstrated the association of PSM with interest in government and nonprofit careers. Perry’s PSM instrument also sheds light upon a less studied aspect of career interest among college students—the perception that the nonprofit sector, and not government, provides the better outlet for altruistic values. The author argues that given the lack of confidence in government and negative perceptions toward government work, only the attraction to policy making dimension predicts interest in government careers. In contrast, commitment to public interest, compassion, and self-sacrifice should explain student interest in nonprofits as well as teaching—both fields of work students see as more directly helping and serving people. Analyses of data from an Internet-based survey of 529 upper-division students at two upper-Midwest universities confirm this “divide” between the rational and normative/affective dimensions of PSM and suggest that confidence in institutions should be incorporated in PSM research.
Cross-entropy motion planning
Authors: Kobilarov Marin
Published: May 2012

This paper is concerned with motion planning for non-linear robotic systems operating in constrained environments. A method for computing high-quality trajectories is proposed building upon recent developments in sampling-based motion planning and stochastic optimization. The idea is to equip sampling-based methods with a probabilistic model that serves as a sampling distribution and to incrementally update the model during planning using data collected by the algorithm. At the core of the approach lies the cross-entropy method for the estimation of rare-event probabilities. The cross-entropy method is combined with recent optimal motion planning methods such as the rapidly exploring random trees (RRT*) in order to handle complex environments. The main goal is to provide a framework for consistent adaptive sampling that correlates the spatial structure of trajectories and their computed costs in order to improve the performance of existing planning methods.
The Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index in Rotator Cuff Disease Patients
Authors: de Witte Pieter Bas , Henseler Jan Ferdinand , Nagels Jochem , Vliet Vlieland Thea P.M. , Nelissen Rob G.H.H.
Published: May 2012

Background:

The Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index (WORC) is an increasingly applied condition-specific outcome measure for rotator cuff (RC) conditions. However, in most WORC validation studies, only a limited number of psychometric properties are studied in indistinct patient groups.

Purpose:

To assess psychometric properties of the WORC according to the Scientific Advisory Committee quality criteria for health questionnaires in 3 patient groups with distinct RC conditions.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

The WORC (range, 0-100; 21 items, 5 domains) was administered twice (T1, T2) in 92 patients (35 RC tears, 35 calcific tendinitis, 22 impingement). Additionally, the Constant score (CS) and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score (DASH) were recorded. Calcific tendinitis patients were reassessed 6 weeks after treatment with needling and lavage or a subacromial injection with corticosteroids (T3). We assessed floor and ceiling effects, internal consistency, test-retest reliability, precision, construct validity, minimally detectable change, and responsiveness in the diagnostic subgroups and the total group.

Results:

Mean age was 55.0 ± 8.7 years, and 49 of 92 (53%) patients were female. Mean baseline WORC was 46.8 ± 20.4, CS was 63.9 ± 15.4, and DASH was 40.9 ± 18.6. Significant differences were found for the CS and DASH between RC tear patients (severe symptoms) and the other patients, but not for the WORC. There were no floor and ceiling effects. Internal consistency was high: the Cronbach alpha coefficient was .95. The intraclass correlation coefficient of .89 and standard error of measurement of 6.9 indicated high reproducibility. Pearson correlations of the WORC with the CS and DASH were .56 and –.65, respectively (both P < .001). At T3, total WORC improved significantly (mean change, 18.8; 95% confidence interval, 11.3-26.2). Correlations of the WORC change scores with CS and DASH changes were .61 and –.84, respectively (both P < .001). Effect size was 0.96, with a standardized response mean of 0.91, indicating good responsiveness.

Conclusion:

Applied to a variety of RC patients, the WORC had high internal consistency, moderate to good construct validity, high test-retest reliability, and good responsiveness. These findings support the use of the WORC as a condition-specific self-reported outcome measure in RC patients, but its validity in patients with severe symptoms needs further investigation.
Shortcuts in Arthroscopic Knot Tying
Authors: Riboh Jonathan C. , Heckman Daniel S. , Glisson Richard R. , Moorman Claude T.
Published: May 2012

Background:

Shortcuts for throwing 3 alternating reversed half-hitches on alternating posts (RHAPs), in which the post is switched by alternating strand tension to “flip” the knot, have been advocated but never validated in a biomechanical study.

Hypothesis:

Shortcut tying techniques will affect knot security or loop security.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A single surgeon tied 90 knots using No. 2 FiberWire through an arthroscopic cannula. Half had a static “surgeon’s base,” and half had a Tennessee slider base. Three techniques were used to create 3 RHAPs: (1) rethreading, (2) knot “flipping” where half-hitches were tensioned by past-pointing, and (3) knot “flipping” where half-hitches were tensioned by alternating past-pointing and over-pointing. Each knot was subjected to a preload of 5 N, followed by 1000 cycles of 5 N to 45 N at 1 Hz, and a single load to failure.

Results:

When compared with Tennessee knots, surgeon’s knots had a lower incidence of knot slippage and catastrophic failure as well as higher loads to clinical and ultimate failure. Shortcut techniques did not affect the properties of surgeon’s knots. However, when used to secure Tennessee knots, past-pointing decreased load to clinical failure and ultimate load to failure. Over-pointing increased the incidence of knot slippage and catastrophic failure and decreased load to clinical failure and ultimate load to failure. Loop security was marginally increased by both past-pointing and over-pointing.

Conclusion:

When all tying techniques are considered, surgeon’s knots outperform Tennessee sliding knots. Shortcut techniques do not alter the properties of surgeon’s knots. However, when used to secure Tennessee sliding knots, shortcuts lead to unacceptably high rates of knot slippage and catastrophic failure as well as decreased knot security.

Clinical Relevance:

The outcomes of arthroscopic rotator cuff or labral repairs can be compromised when using shortcut tying methods to secure sliding Tennessee knots.
Catastrophic Injuries in Pole Vaulters
Authors: Boden Barry P. , Boden Matthew G. , Peter Rebecca G. , Mueller Fred O. , Johnson Jan E.
Published: May 2012

Background:

A prior review of catastrophic pole vaulting injuries from 1982 through 1998 revealed an average of 2.0 injuries per year, with 69% (1.38 per year) of the injuries secondary to athletes landing off the sides or back of the landing pad and 25% (0.5 per year) from athletes landing in the vault box. In 2003, several rule changes for the sport of pole vaulting were mandated, including enlarging the minimum dimensions of the landing pad.

Hypothesis/Purpose:

Our goals were to (1) identify the post-2003 rule change incidence and profile of catastrophic pole vaulting injuries through 2011 and compare them, where possible, with the prior incidence and profile and (2) determine, via a questionnaire, the frequency with which pole vaulters land in the vault box. We hypothesized that the new, larger landing pads would reduce the number of catastrophic injuries.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

We prospectively reviewed all catastrophic pole vaulting injuries (ie, brain hemorrhage; skull, spine, or pelvic fracture; substantial pulmonary or intra-abdominal injury) in the United States from 2003 through 2011, surveyed 3335 pole vaulters to determine the frequency of landing in the vault box, and compared results with those in the literature.

Results:

From 2003 to 2011, 19 catastrophic injuries occurred (average of 2.1 per year), with the majority (n = 14, 74%, 1.55 per year) landing in or around the vault box. Four (21%, 0.44 per year) injuries occurred when an athlete landed off the sides or back of the landing pad and 1 (5%) when the pole broke. There were 11 (58%) major head injuries (1 fatality), 4 (21%) spine fractures (1 with paraplegia), 2 (11%) pelvic fractures (both with intra-abdominal injuries), 1 (5%) brain stem injury (fatal), and 1 (5%) thoracic injury (rib fractures and pneumothorax). The annual fatality rate fell from 1.0 in the prior study to 0.22 in the current study. According to the pole vaulters survey, during their careers, 77.12% (n = 2572) landed in the vault box 1 to 3 times, 15.92% (n = 531) never landed in the vault box, 6.12% (n = 204) landed in the vault box 4 to 6 times, and 0.84% (n = 28) landed in the vault box 7 or more times.

Conclusion:

The 2003 rule changes have markedly reduced the number of catastrophic injuries, especially fatalities, from pole vaulters missing the back or sides of the landing pads; however, the average annual rate of catastrophic injuries from pole vaulters landing in the vault box has more than tripled over the past decade and remains a major problem.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction With Gracilis Tendon in Athletes With Intraligamentous Bony Excision
Authors: Dugas Jeffrey R. , Bilotta Jessica , Watts Chad D. , Crum Joshua A. , Fleisig Glenn S. , McMichael Christopher S. , Cain E. Lyle , Andrews James R.
Published: May 2012

Background:

Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction is frequently performed in throwing athletes, but outcomes of UCL reconstruction requiring excision of bone, either within the substance of or replacing the UCL, have not been studied.

Hypothesis:

Clinical outcome for throwing athletes after UCL reconstruction with gracilis tendon will be less favorable for patients requiring concurrent excision of bone from within the substance of the UCL than for patients with no bone excision within, or replacing, the ligamentous anatomy.

Study Design:

Cohort Study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

One hundred twenty pitchers of competitive levels between high school and major league who underwent UCL reconstruction using contralateral gracilis autografts completed a phone survey, and their medical charts were reviewed. Follow-up was a minimum of 2 years. Among the 120 patients, 42 (35%) had bone within, or replacing, the substance of the native UCL (bony group), and 78 (65%) had no bony abnormalities (nonbony group). The latter group of 78 underwent UCL reconstruction using gracilis tendon graft due to the absence of a palmaris longus tendon. Clinical outcomes were compared between the 2 study groups using t tests and χ2 analyses.

Results:

There were no statistical differences regarding time to return to throwing, time to return to competition, postoperative complications, or need for additional surgeries. The percentage of patients who returned to the same or higher level was higher in the nonbony group (91%) than in the bony group (81%), but this trend was not statistically significant ( P = .083), likely due to a relatively small sample size. Changes in self-reported pitch control were different ( P = .029) between the 2 groups, with a greater percentage of pitchers experiencing decreased control in the bony group.

Conclusion:

The presence of bone concomitant with UCL damage can lead to pitch control problems after UCL reconstruction and may also decrease the chance of return to play.