bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tadalafil Augments Tumor Specific Immunity in Patients with Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Califano Joseph A. , Khan Zubair , Noonan Kimberly A. , Rudraraju Lakshmi , Zhang Zhe , Wang Hao , Goodman Steven , Gourin Christine G. , Ha Patrick K. , Fakhry Carole , Saunders John , Levine Marshall , Tang Mei , Neuner Geoffrey , Richmon Jeremy D. , Blanco Ray , Agrawal Nishant , Koch Wayne M. , Marur Shanthi , Weed Donald T. , Serafini Paolo , Borrello Ivan
Published: January 2015

Purpose: To determine if phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors can augment immune function in patients with head and neck cancer through inhibition of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC).

Experimental Design: We performed a randomized, prospective, double blinded, placebo controlled, phase II clinical trial to determine the in vivo effects of systemic PDE5 inhibition on immune function in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Results: Tadalafil augmented immune response, increasing ex vivo T-cell expansion to a mean 2.4-fold increase compared with 1.1-fold in control patients (P = 0.01), reducing peripheral MDSC numbers to mean 0.81-fold change compared with a 1.26-fold change in control patients (P = 0.001), and increasing general immunity as measured by delayed type hypersensitivity response (P = 0.002). Tumor-specific immunity in response to HNSCC tumor lysate was augmented in tadalafil-treated patients (P = 0.04).

Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that tadalafil augments general and tumor-specific immunity in patients with HNSCC and has therapeutic potential in HNSCC. Evasion of immune surveillance and suppression of systemic and tumor-specific immunity is a significant feature of head and neck cancer development. This study demonstrates that a PDE5 inhibitor, tadalafil, can reverse tumor-specific immune suppression in patients with head and neck cancer, with potential for therapeutic application. Clin Cancer Res; 21(1); 30–38. ©2015 AACR.
Circulating Cholesteryl Ester Transfer Protein and Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Niu Wenquan , Qi Yue
Published: January 2015

Background—

The cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) plays a central role in reverse cholesterol transport. Currently, it remains unresolved whether circulating CETP is causally associated with coronary heart disease (CHD). We aimed to investigate this causal association using
CETP
gene rs708272 polymorphism as an instrument in a Mendelian randomization meta-analysis.

Methods and Results—

We searched PubMed and EMBASE before May 2014. Data and study quality were assessed in duplicate. Thirty-four articles (17 813 CHD patients and 22 203 controls) were qualified. Overall analyses revealed a significant association of rs708272-B1 allele with a reduced CHD risk compared with B2 allele under allelic (odds ratio and 95% confidence interval: 0.87 and 0.82–0.92;
P
<0.001), homozygous genotypic (0.74 and 0.66–0.83;
P
<0.001), and dominant (0.87 and 0.80–0.94;
P
<0.001) models. Carriers of rs708272-B1B1 genotype (weighted mean difference and 95% confidence interval: −0.21 and −0.41 to 0.00 μg/dL;
P
=0.052) or B1 allele (−0.15 and −0.30 to 0.00 μg/dL;
P
=0.056) had a marginally lower circulating CETP level compared with B2B2 genotype carriers. In Mendelian randomization analysis, there was a 25% (odds ratio and 95% confidence interval: 0.75 and 0.19–0.91) and a 17% (0.83 and 0.41–0.96) significantly reduced risk of CHD by a reduction of 0.2 μg/mL in circulating CETP for the comparison of B1B1 genotype and B1 allele with B2B2 genotype, respectively. There were low probabilities of publication bias.

Conclusions—

Our findings demonstrate that the long-term genetically reduced circulating CETP might be causally associated with the low risk of CHD.
Genome-Wide Association Analysis of Plasma B–Type Natriuretic Peptide in Blacks
Authors: Musani Solomon K. , Fox Ervin R. , Kraja Aldi , Bidulescu Aurelian , Lieb Wolfgang , Lin Honghuang , Beecham Ashley , Chen Ming-Huei , Felix Janine F. , Fox Caroline S. , Kao W.H. Linda , Kardia Sharon L.R. , Liu Ching-Ti , Nalls Mike A. , Rundek Tatjana , Sacco Ralph L. , Smith Jennifer , Sun Yan V. , Wilson Gregory , Zhang Zhaogong , Mosley Thomas H. , Taylor Herman A. , Vasan Ramachandran S.
Published: January 2015

Background—

Numerous experimental studies suggest that B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is cardioprotective; however, in clinical studies, higher plasma BNP concentrations have been associated with incident cardiovascular disease and higher left ventricular mass. Genetic association studies may allow us to determine the true causal directions without confounding by compensatory mechanisms.

Methods and Results—

We performed a meta-analysis of 2 genome-wide association results from a total of 2790 blacks. We assumed an additive genetic model in an association analysis of imputed 2.5 million single-nucleotide polymorphism dosages with residuals generated from multivariable-adjusted logarithmically transformed BNP controlling for relevant covariates and population stratification. Two loci were genome-wide significant, a candidate gene locus
NPPB
(rs198389,
P
=1.18×10
−09
) and a novel missense variant in the
KLKB1
locus (rs3733402,
P
=1.75×10
−11
) that explained 0.4% and 1.9% of variation in log BNP concentration, respectively. The observed increase in BNP concentration was proportional to the number of effect allele copies, and an average of 8.1 pg/mL increase was associated with 2 allele copies. In a companion study, single-nucleotide polymorphisms in this loci were cross-checked with genome-wide association results for the aldosterone/renin ratio in individuals of European ancestry, and rs3733402 was genome-wide significant (
P
<5.0×10
−8
), suggesting possible shared genetic architecture for these 2 pathways. Other statistically significant relations for these single-nucleotide polymorphisms included the following: rs198389 with systolic blood pressure in blacks (COGENT consortium) and rs198389 and rs3733402 with left ventricular mass in whites (EchoGEN consortium).

Conclusions—

These findings improve our knowledge of the genetic basis of BNP variation in blacks, demonstrate a possible shared allelic architecture for BNP with aldosterone-renin ratio, and motivate further studies of underlying mechanisms.
Meox2/Tcf15 Heterodimers Program the Heart Capillary Endothelium for Cardiac Fatty Acid Uptake
Authors: Coppiello Giulia , Collantes Maria , Sirerol-Piquer María Salomé , Vandenwijngaert Sara , Schoors Sandra , Swinnen Melissa , Vandersmissen Ine , Herijgers Paul , Topal Baki , van Loon Johannes , Goffin Jan , Prósper Felipe , Carmeliet Peter , García-Verdugo Jose Manuel , Janssens Stefan , Peñuelas Iván , Aranguren Xabier L. , Luttun Aernout
Published: January 2015

Background—

Microvascular endothelium in different organs is specialized to fulfill the particular needs of parenchymal cells. However, specific information about heart capillary endothelial cells (ECs) is lacking.

Methods and Results—

Using microarray profiling on freshly isolated ECs from heart, brain, and liver, we revealed a genetic signature for microvascular heart ECs and identified Meox2/Tcf15 heterodimers as novel transcriptional determinants. This signature was largely shared with skeletal muscle and adipose tissue endothelium and was enriched in genes encoding fatty acid (FA) transport–related proteins. Using gain- and loss-of-function approaches, we showed that Meox2/Tcf15 mediate FA uptake in heart ECs, in part, by driving endothelial CD36 and lipoprotein lipase expression and facilitate FA transport across heart ECs. Combined
Meox2
and
Tcf15
haplodeficiency impaired FA uptake in heart ECs and reduced FA transfer to cardiomyocytes. In the long term, this combined haplodeficiency resulted in impaired cardiac contractility.

Conclusions—

Our findings highlight a regulatory role for ECs in FA transfer to the heart parenchyma and unveil 2 of its intrinsic regulators. Our insights could be used to develop new strategies based on endothelial Meox2/Tcf15 targeting to modulate FA transfer to the heart and remedy cardiac dysfunction resulting from altered energy substrate usage.
Creation – Loneliness – Incest – Death
Authors: Slivniak Dmitri
Published: January 2015

The article proposes a new reading of the Garden Story, based on the Freudian concept of the Oedipus complex and the Derridean concept of the supplement. The Woman is considered as an Oedipal replacement of the mother-Earth in its fruit-bearing capacity. At the same time, she can be likened to a supplement in the Derridean sense, intended to compensate for the Man’s loneliness. However, created from a part of the Man’s body, she remains a (dangerous) supplement and not a real Other and cannot divert the Man from the encroachment on Father’s rights (eating of the fruit). The loneliness of the first Man is therefore not overcome but transformed into the loneliness of the whole human species.
“Loopings Among the Parts”
Authors: Mulhall Stephen
Published: January 2015

This short essay takes guidance from the preface Cavell supplied for the 1999 edition of The Claim of Reason, in order to consider the ways its first three parts interact with one another, just as much as with its fourth and final part. It argues that the book’s account of human action invites us to explore a particular reflexive dimension of its author’s sense of the inter-relatedness of scepticism about the external world and scepticism about other minds; for it suggests that traditional Wittgensteinian responses to the external world sceptic subject him to a form of other minds scepticism, and thereby subvert the extent to which Wittgensteinian philosophical practice (properly understood) constitutes a proof of the reality and accessibility of other minds.
Phylogenetic placement of a new species of Corynesporopsis from dead acacia wood indicates occurrence of tretic conidiogenesis within Xylariales
Authors: Kirschner Roland
Published: January 2015

A new species of Corynesporopsis from rotting wood of Acacia confusa differs from similar species with one-septate conidia by comparatively short conidiophores and conidia and deeper brown pigmentation of conidiogenous cells than of more proximal cells of the conidiophore. Morphology in culture differs from that in situ mainly by hyaline vegetative hyphae and branched conidiophores. A phylogenetic analysis including a species of Corynesporopsis indicates a close relationship to Xylariales and the occurrence of tretic conidiogenesis in this order. Corynesporopsis quercicola is a new record for Taiwan.
Two new species of the genus Zorochros (Coleoptera: Elateridae: Negastriinae) from Korea
Authors: HAN TAEMAN , PARK IN GYUN , PARK HAECHUL
Published: January 2015

Two new species of the genus Zorochros are described from Korea: Zorochros (Zorochros) coreanus sp. nov. and Z. (Z.) mansusanensis sp. nov., belonging to the Z. (Z.) alysidotus species group and Z. (Z.) meridionalis species group, respectively. A key to the Eurasian species for the Z. alysidotus group (nine species) and the Z. meridionalis group (five species) is provided with illustrations of the two new species and their closely allied species, Z. (Z.) mesatiaticus Dolin and Z. (Z.) gurjevae Dolin from Kazakhstan.
The tadpole of Sphaenorhynchus caramaschii, with comments on larval morphology of Sphaenorhynchus (Anura: Hylidae)
Authors: ARAUJO-VIEIRA KATYUSCIA , TACIOLI ANDRE , FAIVOVICH JULIAN , ORRICO VICTOR G. D. , GRANT TARAN
Published: January 2015

We describe the tadpole of Sphaenorhynchus caramaschii. It differs from tadpoles of other species of Sphaenorhynchus in having a short spiracle, submarginal papillae, and alternating short and large marginal papillae in the oral disc. Some larval characteristics, like morphology and position of the nostrils, length of the spiracle, and size of the marginal papillae on the oral disc are discussed for tadpoles of other species of Sphaenorhynchus.
The tadpole of Bokermannohyla lucianae (Napoli & Pimenta 2003) (Amphibia, Anura, Hylidae)
Authors: MERCÊS EDNEI DE ALMEIDA , CAMURUGI FELIPE , BARRETO GILVANA SANTOS , SOLÉ MIRCO , JUNCÁ FLORA ACUÑA
Published: January 2015

Bokermannohyla lucianae (Napoli & Pimenta 2003) belongs to the Bokermannohyla circumdata species group (Faivovich et al. 2005) that currently contains 19 species: B. ahenea (Napoli & Caramaschi 2004), B. astartea (Bokermann 1967), B. capra Napoli & Pimenta 2009, B. caramaschii (Napoli 2005), B. carvalhoi (Peixoto 1981), B. circumdata (Cope 1871), B. feioi (Napoli & Caramaschi 2004), B. gouveai (Peixoto & Cruz 1992), B. hylax (Heyer 1985), B. ibitipoca (Caramaschi & Feio 1990), B. izecksohni (Jim & Caramaschi 1979), B. lucianae (Napoli & Pimenta 2003), B. luctuosa (Pombal & Haddad 1993), B. nanuzae (Bokermann & Sazima 1973), B. napoli Carvalho, Giaretta & Magrini 2012, B. ravida (Caramaschi, Napoli & Bernades 2001), B. sagarana Leite, Pezzuti & Drummond 2011, B. sazimai (Cardoso & Andrade 1982), B. vulcaniae (Vasconcelos & Giaretta 2005). Although species of this group are usually related to altitudinal riparian environments within the Atlantic Forest biome (Napoli & Pimenta 2009), some species occur near to the sea level (e.g. B. capra and B. lucianae) (Camurugi et al. 2010, Dias et al. 2011). Until now, tadpoles of 11 species of the B. circumdata species group have been formally described (Gaiga et al. 2013, Mongin & Carvalho-e-Silva 2013). Herein we describe the previously unknown tadpole of B. lucianae and compare it with tadpoles of other species of the group.
Central and Eastern U.S. Surface Pressure Variations Derived from the USArray Network
Authors: Jacques Alexander A. , Horel John D. , Crosman Erik T. , Vernon Frank L.
Published: January 2015

Large-magnitude pressure signatures associated with a wide range of atmospheric phenomena (e.g., mesoscale gravity waves, convective complexes, tropical disturbances, and synoptic storm systems) are examined using a unique set of surface pressure sensors deployed as part of the National Science Foundation EarthScope USArray Transportable Array. As part of the USArray project, approximately 400 seismic stations were deployed in a pseudogrid fashion across a portion of the United States for 1–2 yr, then retrieved and redeployed farther east. Surface pressure observations at a sampling frequency of 1 Hz were examined during the period 1 January 2010–28 February 2014 when the seismic array was transitioning from the central to eastern continental United States. Surface pressure time series at over 900 locations were bandpass filtered to examine pressure perturbations on three temporal scales: meso- (10 min–4 h), subsynoptic (4–30 h), and synoptic (30 h–5 days) scales.

Case studies of strong pressure perturbations are analyzed using web tools developed to visualize and track tens of thousands of such events with respect to archived radar imagery and surface wind observations. Seasonal assessments of the bandpass-filtered variance and frequency of large-magnitude events are conducted to identify prominent areas of activity. Large-magnitude mesoscale pressure perturbations occurred most frequently during spring in the southern Great Plains and shifted northward during summer. Synoptic-scale pressure perturbations are strongest during winter in the northern states with maxima located near the East Coast associated with frequent synoptic development along the coastal storm track.
d-Dimer Levels are Significantly Increased in Blood Taken From Varicose Veins Compared With Antecubital Blood From the Same Patient
Authors: Lattimer Christopher R. , Kalodiki Evi , Geroulakos George , Syed Daneyal , Hoppensteadt Debra , Fareed Jawed
Published: January 2015

d-Dimer is a prothrombotic biomarker and a very sensitive measure of endogenous fibrinolysis. It is used as a screening test for suspected deep vein thrombosis. This study investigated whether d-dimer levels were increased in the varicose veins of patients in comparison to their own arm samples. Patients, n = 24, 17 male, age 45 (25-91), C2-6, awaiting saphenous laser ablation were compared to matched controls, n = 24, 17 male, age 42 (24-89). Concurrent venous blood samples were taken from the arm and a lower calf/ankle (varicose) vein. The median (interquartile range) d-dimer (ng/mL) level was significantly greater in the ankle than in the arm blood of the same patient at 319 (164-631) versus 281 (167-562), P = .003, Wilcoxon. This did not occur in the controls at 269 (80-564) versus 262 (106-526), P = .361, Wilcoxon. The results indicate increased endogenous fibrinolysis in varicose veins compared with arm blood. This suggests there is more thrombotic activity or dissolution of formed subclinical fibrin thrombus which may explain the association of varicose veins with superficial vein thrombosis. This contrasts with earlier studies reporting a local reduction in fibrinolysis in venous disease.
Physical Education and Academic Performance in Urban African American Girls
Authors: Shen Bo
Published: January 2015

This study was designed to examine urban African American girls’ participation in physical education and its association with academic performance. One hundred eighty four participants completed questionnaires assessing moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and learning engagement in physical education while their academic performance was based on individual grades in core academic classes. Quantitative analyses revealed that physical education played a critical role in enhancing physical activity involvement, and vigorous physical activity and learning engagement were significant predictors of academic performance. Findings suggest that besides the contribution to health promotion, African American girls’ participation in physical education may facilitate academic performance.
Effect of an Olive Oil–Based Lipid Emulsion Compared With a Soybean Oil–Based Lipid Emulsion on Liver Chemistry and Bile Acid Composition in Preterm Infants Receiving Parenteral Nutrition
Authors: Wang Ying , Zhou Ke‐Jun , Tang Qing‐Ya , Hong Li , Feng Yi , Lu Li‐Na , Wang Wei‐Ping , Cai Wei
Published: January 2015

Background: The pathogenesis of parenteral nutrition (PN)–associated liver dysfunction is multifactorial. Lipid emulsions may be one of the putative mechanisms. Our aim was to comparatively assess the effect of parenteral olive oil– and soybean oil–based lipid emulsions on liver chemistry and bile acid composition in preterm infants. Methods: We performed a double‐blind, randomized clinical study in which 103 preterm infants were randomly assigned to PN using either soybean oil–based lipid emulsion (SO; n = 51) or olive oil (OO)–based lipid emulsion (OO; n = 52). The primary end point was liver chemistry. The secondary end point was the plasma bile acid composition. Results: One hundred infants completed this study. In the SO group, the serum direct bilirubin was significantly higher after PN for 7 days compared with the OO group. Bile acids increased over time in both treatment groups. However, specific differences in the change in bile acid composition over time were noted between groups. Conclusions: Differences in direct bilirubin and bile acid composition were observed over time between the 2 groups. Considering the long‐term use of lipid emulsions in higher risk babies, these findings might be useful for understanding the pathogenesis of PN‐associated liver dysfunction.
Reversal of Intestinal Failure–Associated Liver Disease by Switching From a Combination Lipid Emulsion Containing Fish Oil to Fish Oil Monotherapy
Authors: Lee Sanghoon , Park Hyo Jung , Yoon Jihye , Hong Seul Hee , Oh Chae‐Youn , Lee Suk‐Koo , Seo Jeong‐Meen
Published: January 2015

Intestinal failure–associated liver disease (IFALD) is a serious complication of parenteral nutrition (PN). Studies have shown that the amount and content of intravenous lipid emulsions (LEs) used is closely related to the development of IFALD. We report 2 cases of IFALD reversed by switching from a combination lipid emulsion containing fish oil to fish oil monotherapy (Omegaven; Fresenius Kabi Austria Gmbh, Graz, Austria). Patients initially received PN containing SMOFlipid 20% (SMOF; Fresenius Kabi Austria Gmbh, Graz, Austria), 2.0–3.0 g/kg/d, over 24 hours. When IFALD developed, LE was switched from SMOF to Omegaven starting at 1.0 g/kg/d over 12 hours. Case 1 was an 11‐month‐old girl with a diagnosis of extensive Hirschsprung disease up to the proximal jejunum. She developed direct bilirubinemia at 3 months, and the patient's LE was switched to Omegaven. A decrease in direct bilirubin was observed after 60 days on Omegaven, and IFALD was completely resolved after 90 days. Case 2 was a 1‐month‐old boy with a history of gastroschisis diagnosed with megacystis microcolon intestinal hypoperistalsis syndrome. He could not tolerate any oral feeds and was kept on full PN. He had elevated direct bilirubin and developed IFALD since 5 weeks. Omegaven treatment was initiated at 5 months. Direct bilirubin rose to 8 mg/dL during the first month on Omegaven. Then a gradual decrease in direct bilirubin was observed, and after 5 months on Omegaven, IFALD was completely resolved. In conclusion, 2 infants with advanced IFALD showed reversal of cholestasis by switching from SMOF to Omegaven monotherapy.
World Assumptions Among Wives of Former Prisoners of War
Authors: Bronstein Israel , Levin Yafit , Lahav Yael , Solomon Zahava
Published: January 2015

This study examines (a) secondary trauma by evaluating World Assumptions (World Assumptions Scale scores) among spouses of Israeli ex-prisoners of war (ex-POWs) and (b) the relationship between the husbands’ current posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and PTSD trajectory and the wives’ world assumptions. Data were prospectively collected thrice for ex-POWs and comparable veterans, and twice for their spouses. This study extends current research as it links trauma, beyond PTSD symptoms, to more negative world assumptions among spouses of traumatized ex-POWs. Spouses of ex-POWs with PTSD symptoms reported lower benevolence of the people and self-worth and higher randomness compared with spouses of ex-POWs without PTSD symptoms. Spouses of ex-POWs who endorsed chronic PTSD symptoms also reported greater levels of self-control compared with the delayed PTSD symptoms group. Results suggest that the relationship between husbands’ PTSD symptoms and wives’ world assumptions may be mediated by wives’ PTSD symptoms. The implications of the findings are discussed.
The Decline of Tracheotomy among Otolaryngologists
Authors: Patel Hetal H. , Siltumens Aldis , Bess Leah , Camacho Fabian , Goldenberg David
Published: January 2015

Objective

To determine the trend of number of tracheotomies performed by otolaryngologists.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary referral center in central Pennsylvania.

Subjects

All patients undergoing tracheotomy between 2000 and 2013.

Methods

Data were gathered from billing records and operative reports to determine the service performing the tracheotomy. In addition, the surgical technique and indication for surgery were recorded. Negative binomial regressions were conducted to examine the number of tracheotomies performed by each specialty as a function of year.

Results

In 2000, 44% of tracheotomies were being performed by the otolaryngology service, compared with only 25% in 2013. This is a decline of 22% over time. Since 2000, general surgery steadily increased the number of tracheotomies performed in comparison to the steady decrease performed by otolaryngology. Since 2008, general surgeons have significantly increased the number of percutaneous tracheotomies they perform (76% per year). Over the same period, the number of tracheotomies performed by the cardiothoracic surgery service has steadily increased by 26% per year. Most of the tracheotomies performed by cardiothoracic surgery are percutaneous tracheotomies.

Conclusion

This study illustrates that otolaryngologists at our institution are performing fewer tracheotomies over time. If this trend continues, the experience of our trainees may become diluted through reduction in surgical volume. While multi‐institutional studies are warranted, this review provides a summary of data collected at a tertiary care institution, which may reflect national trends.
Lack of Association between Human Herpesvirus and Vestibular Schwannoma
Authors: Bhimrao Sanjiv K. , Maguire John , Garnis Cathie , Tang Patrick , Lea Jane , Akagami Ryojo , Westerberg Brian D.
Published: January 2015

Objective

To assess for the presence of human herpesvirus (HHV) using immunohistochemical and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay in surgically excised vestibular schwannoma (VS) samples.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

A retrospective laboratory‐based study of tumors from patients with vestibular schwannoma.

Subjects and Methods

Tissue microarrays (TMAs) representing sporadic and NF2‐associated VS from 121 patients, as well as appropriate positive and negative controls, were studied. TMA sections were immunostained using antibodies directed against HHV‐1, HHV‐2, HHV‐3, HHV‐4, HHV‐5, and HHV‐8. PCR was used for the detection of all 8 known human herpesviruses.

Results

There was no detectable HHV (HHV‐1, HHV‐2, HHV‐3, HHV‐4, HHV‐5, HHV‐8) by immunohistochemistry in any of the 121 cases of sporadic and NF2 cases analyzed. These data were further validated by DNA sequence analyses using PCR in a subset of the VS samples, all of which were found to be negative for all HHV.

Conclusions

The data offer no support for an association between HHV and the development of sporadic or NF2‐associated VS in humans.
Treatment Outcomes of Temporal Bone Osteoradionecrosis
Authors: Kammeijer Quinten , van Spronsen Erik , Mirck Piet G. B. , Dreschler Wouter A.
Published: January 2015

Objective

To investigate the clinical relevance of the classification systems used for temporal bone osteoradionecrosis (ORN) and to define a treatment protocol for temporal bone ORN.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Setting

Amsterdam, department of otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery.

Subjects and Methods

Classification of temporal bone ORN was performed through use of clinical data and radiologic imaging. Outcomes of conservative and surgical treatment were investigated and compared for different grades of ORN.

Results

Of the 49 ears included in this study, 35 were primarily treated conservatively. At start of conservative treatment, 23 were classified as a localized and 8 as a diffuse form of ORN; 4 could not be classified. There was a significant difference in clinical outcome between the localized and diffuse forms of ORN (χ2 = 5.862, P =. 015), and mastoid air cell destruction on preoperative computed tomography scan was found to be a significant predictor for a negative outcome of conservative treatment (χ2 = 4.34, P =. 037). Fourteen ears with diffuse ORN were primarily treated surgically, and 11 were secondarily treated surgically following a period of conservative treatment. Twenty‐two patients were treated with subtotal petrosectomy, of which 20 were cured. Three patients were treated with canal wall down mastoidectomy, and 2 had recurrence of disease.

Conclusion

Ramsden’s classification system is clinically relevant in predicting conservative treatment outcomes. Mastoid air cell destruction on computed tomography differentiates between the localized and diffuse forms of ORN. Given our results and experience with treating temporal bone ORN, we propose a treatment protocol.
When rights need to be (re)claimed: Austerity measures, neoliberal housing policies and anti-eviction activism in Spain
Authors: Barbero Iker
Published: January 2015

Banks in Spain are receiving millions of euros of taxpayers’ money, while hundreds of home owners are being evicted. Unable to continue paying their mortgages because of unemployment or insecure employment, people are chaining themselves to their houses or other symbolic buildings; embarking on indefinite hunger strikes; and suing banks for contract abuse. In effect they are responding to the crisis by claiming and affirming their right to decent housing. Using media, legal-judicial and activist discourses, this commentary investigates the innovative political and legal tactics of the Spanish anti-eviction protests regarding: legal claims, court mediation, dation in payment (full cancellation of mortgage debt when a property is returned to the bank) and the right to relocation. It is argued that, in response to their being constructed by the state as legally incapable, evicted families and individuals are enacting themselves as activist citizens when (re)claiming their right to decent housing.
Agreement Between Athlete-Recalled and Clinically Documented Concussion Histories in Former Collegiate Athletes
Authors: Kerr Zachary Y. , Mihalik Jason P. , Guskiewicz Kevin M. , Rosamond Wayne D. , Evenson Kelly R. , Marshall Stephen W.
Published: January 2015

Background:

Athlete-recalled and clinically documented concussion histories have been used in research on former athletes, but both have limitations. Comparisons of these 2 types of concussion histories are needed to improve the accuracy of estimates of concussion history for future research and clinical care.

Purpose:

To estimate the agreement between athlete-recalled and clinically documented concussion histories during college and to explore reasons for differences.

Study:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Athlete-recalled concussion histories were provided by a convenience sample of 130 former collegiate athletes using an online questionnaire, and they were individually linked to previously collected clinical data that tracked medically diagnosed concussions at the host institution from 1996 to 2012. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC2,1) was used to assess agreement between athlete-recalled and clinically documented concussion histories. Descriptive analyses were performed to assess reasons for disagreement.

Results:

Agreement between athlete-recalled and clinically documented concussion histories was low (ICC2,1 = 0.21; 95% confidence interval, 0.05-0.37), but it was higher for women (ICC2,1 = 0.65; 95% confidence interval, 0.44-0.79) and for athletes playing more recently (2005-2012; ICC2,1 = 0.39; 95% confidence interval, 0.01-0.67). Of the 53 athletes who self-reported college sports–related concussions, 40% believed that they sustained impacts that should have been diagnosed as concussions but were undetected, and 21% admitted nondisclosure of suspected concussions. Common reasons for nondisclosure included the following: did not think injury was serious enough (91%), did not know it was a concussion (73%), and did not want to leave the game/practice (73%).

Conclusion:

Given the low agreement between athlete-recalled and clinically documented concussion histories, methodologic research is needed to improve the quality of tools used to assess concussion histories in former athletes.
Effective Rewards Strategies for Mergers, Acquisitions and Joint Ventures/Alliances
Authors: Greene Robert J.
Published: January 2015

Organizations entering into mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and alliances must formulate rewards strategies that are effective and appropriate for the new entity. The rewards strategy should be influenced by the new culture, strategy and objectives and must be viewed by employees as equitable, competitive and appropriate.
Cross-wing Filmmaking: East Pakistani Urdu Films and Their Traces in the Bangladesh Film Archive
Authors: Hoek Lotte
Published: January 2015

This article excavates Urdu cinema from East Pakistan from the Bangladesh Film Archive. Neglected within the scholarship on Bangladeshi cinema history, I ask what shape the forgetting of East Pakistani Urdu films, and the worlds in which they were made and seen, has taken. I will suggest that the political watershed of 1971 limits the possibilities for excavating the past of Bangladeshi and Pakistani cinema and produces deeply personal forms of forgetting of this particular cinema. I will show how, contrary to accepted film historiography, the cinema of East and West Pakistan was deeply connected, that there was a Bengali reading audience for Urdu films and that Bengali filmmakers in East Pakistan debated the question of Urdu cinema. I use the film Son of Pakistan to suggest that the peculiar opacities around this film direct us to pay attention to those fragments of visual culture that refer not just to a disappeared past but an actively forgotten world of everyday pleasures and aspirations.
“Kharaak Kita Oi!”: Masculinity, Caste, and Gender in Punjabi Films
Authors: Sevea Iqbal
Published: January 2015

This article explores the representations of masculinity and gender in Pakistani Punjabi films. From the 1970s, Punjabi films that depicted the quest for revenge in rural backdrops emerged as the most lucrative films produced in Pakistan. This article focuses specifically on a series of films that center around the character of Maula Jatt, a rebellious and violent figure, who was pivotal to the emergence and popularity of rural-based Punjabi vendetta films. Questioning notions of fixed or unitary manliness, this article traces the emergence of a new male cultural type, as exemplified by Maula Jatt and others, in relation to the depiction of women and male social power. Approaching gender in relational terms entails the study of how codes of masculinities are established by demonstrating their superiority not only over women but also over “other men,” especially those from subordinated social groups. In line with this, this article asserts the importance of examining masculinity in terms of caste identities. Thus, it traces the representations of Jatt identity. It is asserted that these films construct or portray a Jatt-centric hegemonic code of masculinity; with other caste groups being measured according to their ability to live up to this form of masculinity.
Film and Cinephilia in Pakistan: Beyond Life and Death
Authors: Ahmad Ali Nobil
Published: January 2015

This introductory article identifies some of the conceptual issues and themes worth considering in the pursuit of a broader and deeper knowledge about the cinema in Pakistan than currently exists. It does so with reference to several of the papers in this special issue and a number of recently published scholarly works on culture and politics in the Pakistani context. The article probes existing discourses on Pakistani film in a bid to clear the way for more nuanced conversations, asking: What is meant in precise terms when cinema’s “death” is spoken of and what are the implicit assumptions about the nature of cinematic “life” that flow from it? What, more fundamentally, is meant by “Pakistani cinema,” and what sorts of elisions and conflations result from its vague and polemical usage as a generic epithet encompassing film output from so vast and historically unstable an entity as Pakistan? A final set of questions centers around the term “industry.” Here again, defining and disentangling the terms of reference is a useful starting point for exploration of other units of analysis that may be appropriate for describing social realities and aesthetic forms than the clunky lexicon of life and death currently allows.
Working Class Zombies and Men in Burqas: Temporality, Trauma, and the Specter of Nostalgia in Zibahkhana
Authors: Kirk Gwendolyn S.
Published: January 2015

2007 saw the release of the film Zibahkhana (dir. Omar Ali Khan), an independent production billed as “Pakistan’s first extreme horror film.” Combining prominent nods to classic Hollywood horror films such as The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Night of the Living Dead with plenty of references to Pakistani horror and action cinema, it foregrounds issues of social class, conflicting ideologies of Islam, globalization, and public sanitation. Featuring a vanload of privileged urban teenagers, a mob of zombie villagers, Pakistan’s own Dracula, and a deranged family of killers including a large male figure in a burqa, film is not a simplistic critique of current socio-political issues in Pakistan; rather this article seeks to understand how its narrative and visual elements create powerful, temporal, and moral ambiguities that resist such superficial interpretation. Through a variety of narrative and visual techniques, Zibahkhana rejects simple dichotomies (e.g., “Islamic radicalism versus kind and gentle Sufism”) and instead uses blurred temporalities, fleeting allegorical moments, and the invocation of a rather ominous nostalgia to offer a sophisticated critique of the relationship between cinema and the nation-state.
Competing for the Crown
Authors: Wood Reed M. , Kathman Jacob D.
Published: January 2015

What factors contribute to the victimization of civilians during civil war? Drawing on research from various disciplines, we argue that increasing competition within a civil conflict system brought on by the entrance of new factions contributes to an increase in civilian targeting by existing rebel groups. Specifically, we argue that existing groups are more likely to target civilians immediately upon the entrance of new rivals due to the perceived threat to control over resources and because the arrival of new groups diminishes the gains existing groups expect from either victory or successful conflict bargaining. We further argue that violence against civilians increases during periods in which rival factions engage in direct, violent conflict with one another. Our analysis diverges from existing studies by arguing and demonstrating that fluctuations in competition rather than the simple presence of competing groups produce spikes in civilian targeting by nonstate actors. We evaluate and find support for our argument using monthly data for African conflicts between 1989 and 2010.
Androgen Receptor–Positive Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma
Authors: Ishibashi Kenichiro , Ito Yohei , Fujii Kana , Masaki Ayako , Beppu Shintaro , Kawakita Daisuke , Ijichi Kei , Shimozato Kazuo , Inagaki Hiroshi
Published: January 2015

Androgen receptor (AR) is usually expressed in salivary duct carcinoma (SDC), but only infrequently in other carcinoma types including mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC). The clinicopathological characteristics of AR-positive MEC remain to be clarified. Here we report a case of AR-positive MEC. A 76-year-old man presented with a growing painless tumor of the right parotid. The resected tumor was a high-grade tumor with necroses. Since the tumor was positive for AR, GCDFP-15, and HER2, SDC was first suspected, but it was also positive for CK5/6 and P63, and negative for S-100 protein and α-smooth muscle actin. In addition, scattered mucous secreting tumor cells were found in the tumor nests, and they were positive for Alcian blue. A diagnosis of AR-positive MEC was finally made. The patient died of the tumor 5 years after the surgery. The present case may expand the histopathological spectrum of high-grade MEC.
Comparison of psychological functioning in children and their mothers living through a life-threatening and non life-threatening chronic disease
Authors: Graziano Sonia , Rossi Angela , Spano Barbara , Petrocchi Michela , Biondi Gianni , Ammaniti Massimo
Published: January 2015

Childhood chronic illness is a potential source of distress and can be a traumatic experience both for the child and for the family. Several studies highlighted the importance of integrating psychosocial care and standard medical practice in the child’s care. The current pilot study is the first investigation that compared distress in children and their mothers living through a life-threatening illness (cancer) and a non life-threatening (juvenile rheumatoid arthritis) chronic disease. Findings show that there are differences in the psychological functioning in children with respect to age. Moreover, the presence of posttraumatic stress symptoms in mothers of children with cancer seems to be a possible key to understanding the psychological response in this specific population.
Covering global warming in dubious times: Environmental reporters in the new media ecosystem
Authors: Gibson Timothy A , Craig Richard T , Harper Allison C , Alpert Jordan M
Published: January 2015

With every Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report, the predicted consequences of global warming become increasingly dire. Yet public engagement on the issue, particularly in the United States, lags far behind what is required for collective action. There is therefore an urgent need for vigorous and engaging journalism on climate science and policy-making. Unfortunately, the profession of journalism is currently experiencing an unprecedented period of ferment, as media firms experiment with new ways to expand profits in a rapidly changing media ecosystem. Drawing on in-depth interviews, this article examines how environmental journalists have coped with the challenge of covering climate change in the context of a restructuring news industry. The interviews reveal that, despite the challenges they face – particularly regarding the complexity of the issue and their own economic insecurity – environmental journalists have developed a number of creative strategies for getting climate change stories past editors and in front of audiences. A concluding section draws on a cultural industries approach to studying media institutions in order to evaluate both the promise and limits of these individual acts of creativity.
Intimate Partner Sexual Violence
Authors: Bagwell-Gray Meredith E. , Messing Jill Theresa , Baldwin-White Adrienne
Published: January 2015

Intimate partner sexual violence (IPSV) is a significant aspect of intimate partner violence (IPV). While intimate partners commit one third of sexual assaults, IPSV is often overlooked in studies about IPV and in research on sexual violence. There are difficulties identifying, defining, and measuring IPSV, and research lacks consistency in terminology and measurement. The purpose of this article is to review the terms, definitions, and measurements associated with IPSV. Academic journals and nonscholarly documents from the United States were searched for articles and reports associated with the study of sexual violence and IPV. Forty-nine documents met the criteria for inclusion. A four-part taxonomy defining IPSV was developed, which included IPSV, intimate partner sexual coercion, intimate partner sexual abuse, and intimate partner forced sexual activity. The average weighted prevalence rates of these various forms of IPSV were calculated across included research studies. However, the measurements generally used to assess IPV do not adequately measure IPSV. Future research should consist terms to ensure consistent conceptualization and measurement of IPSV and to inform practice with survivors.
Using technology and engineering to facilitate skill acquisition and improvements in performance
Authors: McNitt-Gray Jill L , Sand Kathleen , Ramos Christopher , Peterson Travis , Held Laura , Brown Korkut
Published: January 2015

To improve performance and facilitate sport-specific skill acquisition, the challenges encountered by the athlete during competition must be understood. Quantitative evidence used to design and motivate specific modifications in movement technique often requires systematic experimentation conducted in realistic contexts. In some cases, laboratory-based experimentation and dynamic modeling can be integrated to determine how athletes are generating the forces causing the observed movements. These approaches help us ascertain why certain factors affect performance. Results can then be used as a basis for designing skill progressions used to improve performance. Examples provided in this article illustrate how the use of technology, software, and experimental-based engineering tools has facilitated skill acquisition and improved the performance of skills essential for competition in gymnastics, track and field, basketball, and volleyball.
Surgical Treatment of Clavicle Fractures in the Adolescent Athlete
Authors: Fanter Nathan J. , Kenny Ryan M. , Baker Champ L. , Baker Champ L.
Published: January 2015

Context:

Current literature has clearly shown that the indications for surgical treatment of clavicle fractures in adults are expanding. Although clavicle fractures in children and adolescents have traditionally been treated nonoperatively, surgical treatment of displaced clavicle fractures may be indicated for adolescent athletes.

Evidence Acquisition:

A review of relevant articles published between 1970 and 2013 was completed using MEDLINE and the terms clavicle fracture and adolescent athlete.

Study Design:

Clinical review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Results:

Excellent outcomes and rapid return to competition can be achieved with surgical management of displaced clavicle fractures in the adolescent athlete with high functional demands similar to those of their adult counterparts. Complications include hardware irritation, screw loosening, pin migration, peri-incisional numbness, and refracture. Athletes and families must be counseled regarding complications and potential need for secondary surgery to remove hardware.

Conclusion:

The adolescent athlete with a displaced, shortened, or comminuted clavicle fracture presents a unique, controversial dilemma for the surgeon. Earlier return to competition can be achieved with surgical management to restore length and alignment and may prevent malunion, nonunion, and poor outcomes.
Shoulder muscle strengh in asyntomatic patients, according to age, sex and method of determination
Authors: Arcuri Francisco , Barclay Fernando , Nacul Iván
Published: January 2015

Objective:

Determine the normal value of shoulder muscle strengh, in an adult population divided in six groups between 20 to 86 years, without known shoulder pathology.

Materials and Methods:

523 individuals, 1046 shoulders, had their muscle strengh evaluated in two different positions, in 90 abduction and 90º fowarf flexion in the scapular plane. Three measurements were performed and the aveage one was recorded. Patiens with known shoulder pathology, reumathoid diseases, cancer were excluded. The patients were divided in six groups according to age, from 20 to 29 (68 patients), 30 to 39 (92 patients), 40 to 49 (109 patients), 50 to 59 (103 patients), 60 to 69 (91 patients) and 70 to 90 (60 patients). The strengh eas measured in pounds.

Results:

Average mucle strengh was 17,64 at the scapular plane and 16,82 lb at 90ª (p<0,0001)For the right shoulder, the average muscle strengh of the second decade group was 22 lb at scapular plane and 20,73 at 90º. The third decade was 19,93 and 18,50 respectively. The fouth decade values were 20,45 and 19,58, on the fifth decade 17,83 and 17,07. On the sixth decade was 15,57 and 15,23 and for the seventh decade was 11,40 and 11 lb respectively. The values for the left shoulder were for the second decade 21,53 om the scapular plane and 20,53 at 90º. On the third decade were 19,33 and 18,17, on the fourth decade 19,62 and 18,95, on the fifth decade were 16,8 and 16,2 , on the sixth decade 15,57 and 15,23. And for the final group 11,4 and 11 lb. Significant differences were seen between both shoulders ,sex (p<0,0001), position of the arm at time of measure (p0,0001), dominace (p0,001)

Conclusion:

The objective measurement of the muscle strengh of the shoulder varies significantly with age, sex and position of the arm at time of measure, putting in dout the validity of the contralateral shoulder as a value to compare against.