bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stroke in Patients With Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Kolls Brad J. , Sapp Shelly , Rockhold Frank W. , Jordan J. Dedrick , Dombrowski Keith E. , Fowkes F. Gerry R. , Mahaffey Kenneth W. , Berger Jeffrey S. , Katona Brian G. , Blomster Juuso I. , Norgren Lars , Abramson Beth L. , Leiva-Pons Jose L. , Prieto Juan Carlos , Sokurenko German , Hiatt William R. , Jones W. Schuyler , Patel Manesh R.
Published: May 2019

Background and Purpose—

Predictors of stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA) in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) are poorly understood. The primary aims of this analysis were to (1) determine the incidence of ischemic/hemorrhagic stroke and TIA in patients with symptomatic PAD, (2) identify predictors of stroke in patients with PAD, and (3) compare the rate of stroke in ticagrelor- and clopidogrel-treated patients.

Methods—

EUCLID (Examining Use of Ticagrelor in Peripheral Artery Disease) randomized 13 885 patients with symptomatic PAD to receive monotherapy with ticagrelor or clopidogrel for the prevention of major adverse cardiovascular events (cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, or ischemic stroke). Ischemic/hemorrhagic stroke and TIA were adjudicated and measured as incidence rates postrandomization and cumulative incidence (per patient-years). Post hoc multivariable competing risk hazards analyses were performed using baseline characteristics to determine factors associated with all-cause stroke in patients with PAD.

Results—

A total of 458 cerebrovascular events in 424 patients (317 ischemic strokes, 39 hemorrhagic strokes, and 102 TIAs) occurred over a median follow-up of 30 months, for a cumulative incidence of 0.87, 0.11, and 0.27 per 100 patient-years, respectively. Age, prior stroke, prior atrial fibrillation/flutter, diabetes mellitus, geographic region, ankle-brachial index <0.60, prior amputation, and systolic blood pressure were independent baseline factors associated with the occurrence of all-cause stroke. After adjustment for baseline factors, the rates of ischemic stroke and all-cause stroke remained lower in patients treated with ticagrelor as compared with those receiving clopidogrel. There was no significant difference in the incidence of hemorrhagic stroke or TIA between the 2 treatment groups.

Conclusions—

In patients with symptomatic PAD, ischemic stroke and TIA occur frequently over time. Comorbidities such as age, prior stroke, prior atrial fibrillation/flutter, diabetes mellitus, higher blood pressure, prior amputation, lower ankle-brachial index, and geographic region were each independently associated with the occurrence of all-cause stroke. Use of ticagrelor, as compared with clopidogrel, was associated with a lower adjusted rate of ischemic and all-cause stroke. Further study is needed to optimize medical management and risk reduction of all-cause stroke in patients with PAD.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01732822.
Preaching Adam in John Chrysostom and Augustine of Hippo
Authors: Finn Douglas E. , Dupont Anthony
Published: May 2019

Is Adam merely a bad moral example, or has his first sin left a lasting impact on the human condition? The current paper revisits the traditional juxtaposition between John Chrysostom and Augustine of Hippo as holding, respectively, a preference for humankind’s autonomy and heteronomy. The way both perceived Adam as an example serves, in this paper, as a concrete case study. First, we investigate how both preachers understand the notion of exemplarity, and how they develop their own pedagogy based on examples. Next, we observe how both preachers apply these pastoral didactics to the first man as a role model. The historical person of Adam, and the eschatological consequences of his fall, play a prominent role in their respective homiletic oeuvres. Chrysostom understands Adam’s primordial sin as a bad example—an instructive example of behavior to be avoided and a therapeutic example that instils in us gratitude for God’s mercy. Augustine, by contrast, is quite hesitant to consider Adam merely an example, since he prefers to stress the ontological solidarity that the whole of humanity shares with Adam.
A revision of the Neotropical genus Motonerus Hansen (Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae: Sphaeridiinae)
Authors: FIKÁÑEK MARTIN , SHORT ANDREW EDWARD Z.
Published: May 2019

The previously monotypic genus Motonerus Hansen, 1989 is revised and redefined. Seven new species are described: Motonerus andersoni FikáÖek & Short, sp. n. (Costa Rica, Panama), M. apterus FikáÖek & Short, sp. n., (Venezuela, Colombia), M. depressus FikáÖek & Short, sp. n. (Colombia), M. hanseni FikáÖek & Short, sp. n. (Costa Rica), M. nublado FikáÖek & Short, sp. n. (Venezuela), M. oosternoides FikáÖek & Short, sp. n. (Panama), and M. problematicus FikáÖek & Short, sp. n. (Costa Rica). Two additional new species from Bolivia are left undescribed pending the collection of males. New records are given for the previously described species, M. obscurus Hansen, which had been composite with respect to M. hanseni sp. n. Almost all collections of the genus are associated with cloud and montane forest litter. A key to the species of the genus is provided along with comments on the relationship of the genus with others in the tribe Megasternini. The unusual flightless condition found in M. apterus and M. oosternoides is discussed. The male genitalia and other key characters are illustrated.
Revision of Bowmaniella sensu Băcescu, 1968 (Crustacea: Mysida: Mysidae: Gastrosaccinae): a taxonomic conundrum
Authors: HEARD RICHARD W. , PRICE W. WAYNE
Published: May 2019

There is confusion regarding the taxonomy, systematics, and distribution of species within the burrowing mysid genus Bowmaniella Băcescu, 1968. We have critically reviewed and examined the subgenera and the 15 nominal species currently assigned to Bowmaniella sensu Băcescu. Type material of eight of the 15 nominal species was examined and in vivo observations were made on two nominal species of the ‘dissimilis group’. It was determined that in the ultimate (terminal form) and penultimate (subterminal form) males, the morphology of the third pleopods is distinctly different, a factor which has led to taxonomic confusion and the descriptions of several invalid species. Because Băcescu (1968) did not designate a type species for Bowmaniella or for the subgenus Coifmanniella, both taxa are nomina nuda. Our studies, especially those involving the development of the male third pleopod, also indicate that nine of the nominal species previously assigned to Bowmaniella Bacescu, 1968 are junior synonyms. We formally designate two new genera, Bowmaniella n. g. and Coifmanniella n. g., to accommodate the species previously listed under Bowmaniella and its subgenera as perceived by Băcescu (1968). We retain the use of Bacescu’s original generic and subgeneric names, but with each having distinctly different diagnoses to those originally proposed by Băcescu. Bowmaniella n. g. is diagnosed to receive B. dissimilis (type species) and B. banneri. Coifmanniella n. g. contains four species, C. johnsoni (type species), C. mexicana, C. merjonesi, and C. parageia. Lectotypes are designated for Bowmaniella dissimilis, B. banneri, Coifmanniella mexicana and C. merjonesi and a neotype is designated for C. johnsoni. Illustrated keys are given for the seven “burrowing” genera presently assigned to the Gastrosaccinae and for the species currently assigned to the American genera Bowmaniella and Coifmanniella.
Description of a new species, Tarchius yunnanensis (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Cossoninae), from China
Authors: OMAR YOUSSEF MOHAMED , HAN KYUNGDUK , ZHANG RUNZHI
Published: May 2019

Tarchius yunnanensis sp. nov. is described from Yunnan Province, China. The genus is reported for the first time in China. A key to the species of Tarchius is presented, and illustrations of diagnostic features of the new species are provided.
Three new species of Neolethaeus Distant (Hemiptera: Lygaeoidea: Rhyparochromidae: Lethaeini) from China, with a key to the Chinese species
Authors: LI JUNLAN , BU WENJUN
Published: May 2019

Three new species, Neolethaeus densus sp. n., Neolethaeus maculacellus sp. n., and Neolethaeus distinctus sp. n. are described from China. Photographs of the new species and illustrations of genital structures are given. A key to all Chinese species is included.
Taxonomic summary of Conopsis, Günther, 1858 (Serpentes: Colubridae)
Authors: GOYENECHEA IRENE , FLORES-VILLELA OSCAR
Published: May 2019

The colubrid snake genus Conopsis is distributed in mainland Mexico. The taxonomic history of this genus is complex and recently organisms under the genus Toluca have been synonimized with Conopsis. Here we present the nomenclatural history, morphological variation, distribution and a dichotomous key for the genus Conopsis. Species characterizations are based on a previous cladistic analysis of molecular and morphological characters. We recognize six valid species: C. acuta n. comb., C. amphisticha, C. biserialis, C. lineata, C. megalodon and C. nasus.
The circumscription of the generic concept of Aximopsis Ashmead (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Eurytomidae) with the description of seven new species
Authors: GATES M. W. , METZ M. A. , SCHAUFF M. E.
Published: May 2019

The genus Aximopsis is redefined, an hypothesis of its phylogenetic placement within Eurytominae is presented, and seven species are described as new: A. anubis Gates, A. arietinis Gates, A. hespenheidei Gates, A. hippolytis Gates, A. lanceolepis Gates, A. pythmenis Gates, and A. vogti Gates. Three new combinations are proposed: Philolema javensis (Girault), 1917, n. comb., Philolema tephrosiae Girault, 1917, n. comb., and Eurytoma tricolor n. comb. Aximopsis elegans Masi (1917) is placed incertae sedis. Aximopsis ovi Girault and A. tumidiscapi Girault are nomina nuda.
Taxonomy of Simulium (Inaequalium) petropoliense Coscarón (Diptera: Simuliidae) from Brazil, with the first description of the male and larva
Authors: HERNANDEZ LUIS MIGUEL , DE LUNA DIAS ANTONIO PAULINO ANDRADE , MAIA-HERZOG MARILZA , SHELLEY ANTHONY JOHN
Published: May 2019

We describe the male and larva of Simulium petropoliense for the first time and redescribe the female and pupa. All morphological characters are fully illustrated and comparisons with closely related species are given.
Larval morphology of Arrenurus cuspidifer Piersig, A. claviger Koenike, and A. latus Barrois & Moniez (Acari: Hydrachnidia)
Authors: ZAWAL ANDRZEJ
Published: May 2019

The larva of Arrenurus latus is re-described and the larvae of A. cuspidifer and A. claviger are described for the first time. The larvae of A. cuspidifer and A. claviger share characters, such as shape of dorsal plate, shape of excretory pore plate and ratios of medial margins of coxal plates, which they also share with other Arrenurus s. str. species. In constrast, A. latus, a member of Micrarrenurus, lacks these characters. Instead, it closely resembles other members of Micrarrenurus such as Arrenurus albator, A. fimbraitus and A. crassicaudatus in having similar shape of dorsal plates, similar shape of excretory pore plates and pectinate setae on the PV3 and PV4 of the pedipalps. Therefore, the subgenus Micrarrenurus is further supported by characters of larval morphology.
A new species of Losdolobus Platnick & Brescovit, 1994 (Araneae: Dysderoidea: Orsolobidae) from southern Brazil
Authors: LISE ARNO A. , ALMEIDA LUCIANO
Published: May 2019

Losdolobus xarruanus sp. n. from Palmas, Bagé, state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, is described as new, based on one male and one female collected in pitfall traps.
First description of the adult male of Epeorus aculeatus Braasch (Ephemeroptera: Heptageniidae)
Authors: WEBB J. M. , MCCAFFERTY W. P.
Published: May 2019

The male imago of the southeast Asian species Epeorus aculeatus Braasch is described for the first time, based on reared material from Thailand.
Taxonomic study of Sinopoda spiders from China (Araneae: Sparassidae)
Authors: ZHONG YANG , JÄGER PETER , CHEN JIAN , LIU JIE
Published: May 2019

The spider genus Sinopoda Jäger, 1999 in China is studied. Seventeen new species are described: S. abstrusa sp. nov. (♂♀, Xizang), S. aequalis sp. nov. (♂♀, Henan), S. apiculiformis sp. nov. (♂♀, Hunan), S. brevis sp. nov. (♂♀, Liaoning), S. changde sp. nov. (♂♀, Hunan, Shaanxi), S. columnaris sp. nov. (♀, Guizhou), S. curva sp. nov. (♂, Guangxi), S. dehiscens sp. nov. (♀, Hunan), S. erromena sp. nov. (♀, Hunan), S. improcera sp. nov. (♂♀, Yunnan), S. lata sp. nov. (♀, Yunnan), S. luyui sp. nov. (♂♀, Sichuan, Gansu), S. ovata sp. nov. (♂♀, Chongqing), S. pyramidalis sp. nov. (♂♀, Sichuan), S. tumefacta sp. nov. (♂♀, Yunnan), S. yaanensis sp. nov. (♂♀, Sichuan, Yunnan), S. yanlingensis sp. nov. (♂♀, Hunan). Five known species are redescribed or diagnosed and differentiated from related species: the males of S. liui Zhong, Cao & Liu, 2017 and S. longshan Yin, Peng, Yan & Bao, 2000 and the female of S. pengi Song & Zhu, 1999 are reported for the first time; the female of S. longiducta Zhang, Zhang & Zhang, 2015 is considered mismatched and transferred to S. yaanensis sp. nov.; photographs and new records are provided for S. globosa Zhang, Zhang & Zhang, 2015.
A Modified Framework for Quantifying Land–Atmosphere Covariability during Hydrometeorological and Soil Wetness Extremes in Oklahoma
Authors: Wakefield Ryann A. , Basara Jeffrey B. , Furtado Jason C. , Illston Bradley G. , Ferguson Craig. R. , Klein Petra M.
Published: May 2019

Global “hot spots” for land–atmosphere coupling have been identified through various modeling studies—both local and global in scope. One hot spot that is common to many of these analyses is the U.S. southern Great Plains (SGP). In this study, we perform a mesoscale analysis, enabled by the Oklahoma Mesonet, that bridges the spatial and temporal gaps between preceding local and global analyses of coupling. We focus primarily on east–west variations in seasonal coupling in the context of interannual variability over the period spanning 2000–15. Using North American Regional Reanalysis (NARR)-derived standardized anomalies of convective triggering potential (CTP) and the low-level humidity index (HI), we investigate changes in the covariance of soil moisture and the atmospheric low-level thermodynamic profile during seasonal hydrometeorological extremes. Daily CTP and HI z scores, dependent upon climatology at individual NARR grid points, were computed and compared to in situ soil moisture observations at the nearest mesonet station to provide nearly collocated annual composites over dry and wet soils. Extreme dry and wet year CTP and HI z-score distributions are shown to deviate significantly from climatology and therefore may constitute atmospheric precursors to extreme events. The most extreme rainfall years differ from climatology but also from one another, indicating variability in the strength of land–atmosphere coupling during these years. Overall, the covariance between soil moisture and CTP/HI is much greater during drought years, and coupling appears more consistent. For example, propagation of drought during 2011 occurred under antecedent CTP and HI conditions that were identified by this study as being conducive to positive dry feedbacks demonstrating potential utility of this framework in forecasting regional drought propagation.
Clinical Value of Measurement of Internal Auditory Canal in Pediatric Cochlear Implantation
Authors: Kim Hantai , Kim Dong Young , Ha Eun Ju , Park Hun Yi
Published: May 2019

Objectives:

The aims of this study were to clarify the clinical value of the bony cochlear nerve canal (BCNC) and internal auditory canal (IAC) in children with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss (b-SNHL) and to reveal the correlation between these parameters and outcomes after cochlear implantation (CI).

Methods:

Ninety-four ears with b-SNHL that received CI and 100 ears with normal hearing were enrolled. Parameters of IAC and pre- and post-CI categories of auditory performance scores were analyzed.

Results:

The width of the BCNC and the width, height, and length of the IAC were shorter in the b-SNHL group. BCNC and IAC width were associated with b-SNHL. The calculated cutoff values for BCNC and IAC width were 2.055 mm in the BCNC and 4.245 mm in the IAC, setting the sensitivity to 90%. Patients with narrow BCNCs and IACs had significantly worse post-CI auditory performance.

Conclusions:

BCNC and IAC widths were narrower in children with b-SNHL than in normal-hearing children. Narrow BCNC and IAC width had a negative impact on post-CI outcomes. The proposed cutoff values for BCNC and IAC width were meaningful when predicting the auditory outcome after CI, especially considering both.
Preliminary Characterization of Extracellular Vesicles From Auditory HEI-OC1 Cells
Authors: Kalinec Gilda M. , Cohn Whitaker , Whitelegge Julian P. , Faull Kym F. , Kalinec Federico
Published: May 2019

Objectives:

Isolate, purify, and characterize extracellular vesicles (EVs) obtained from auditory HEI-OC1 cells, and evaluate their suitability for intracochlear transport and delivery of pharmacological drugs and/or pro-resolution mediators of acute inflammatory processes.

Methods:

HEI-OC1 EVs were isolated and purified using the exoEasy Maxi Kit, and their size was evaluated by nanoparticle tracking techniques. Bottom-up proteomics of the EVs, either freshly obtained or stored for up to 4 months at −20°C, was performed by LC-ESI-MS/MS. LC-ESI-MS/MS-MRM was used to measure the loading of dexamethasone inside EVs following co-incubation at room temperature for 1 hour with and without 5 minutes sonication.

Results:

Routinely, we were able to obtain purified fractions of >2 × 109 EVs/mL, with diameters varying between 50 and 800 nm. Bottom-up proteomics showed that among the most abundant EVs proteins, 19.2% were cytoplasmic, 17.2% were membrane localized, 12.3% were cytosolic, and 14.6% were nucleolar. No significant differences between fresh and stored EVs were detected. Importantly, co-incubation of HEI-OC1 EVs (1 × 108 EVs/mL) with dexamethasone (10 mM) resulted in the incorporation of 10.1 ± 1.9 nM dexamethasone per milliliter of EVs suspension.

Conclusions:

Altogether, the results suggest that EVs from HEI-OC1 cells could be advantageously used as biological nanocarriers for the delivery of specific molecules and pharmacological drugs into the inner ear.
Auditory Cortical Plasticity and Reorganization in Rats With Single-Sided Deafness During Early Developmental Period
Authors: Park Su-Kyoung , Lee Sang-yeon , Kim Doo Hee , Lee Min Young , Oh Seung-Ha
Published: May 2019

Objective:

We aimed to examine the serial change of sound-specific auditory cortical activation patterns in age-matched normal hearing (NH) and young single-sided deafness (YSSD) rats to understand the critical period that influences a benefit of a binaural hearing.

Method:

Experiments were performed on the age-matched 64 Sprague-Dawley rats; NH group = 45 rats, and YSSD group = 19 rats. NH rats were evaluated the multi-unit neural activities from the age of post-14 days (P14ds) to P73ds by week interval. For YSSD group, left-side cochlear ablations were done at the age of P10ds, and multineural recordings were implemented at the post-deafening (PD) 2 weeks (W), PD4W, PD6W, and PD8W, with age matching. After craniotomy, tungsten wire-based 16-channel microelectrode array was inserted to the surface of the auditory cortex. Gaussian white sound stimulation was introduced to the right ear every 500 ms, and analyses were performed of the Peri-stimulus time histogram. The parameters, including peak latency, peak amplitude, total responsive area, and index of contralaterality, were evaluated.

Results:

In NH group, larger peak amplitude and total responsive area and shorter peak latency of the contralateral hemisphere to sound stimulation were observed in all ages. Interestingly, YSSD group demonstrated that total reactive area in the contralateral side was significantly smaller than that in the ipsilateral side at PD2W and PD4W, indicating the disappearance of contralateral dominance within PD4W. Subsequently, monaural stimulation from the hearing ear exclusively activated the contralateral hemisphere at PD6W and PD8W.

Conclusion:

Early onset of unilateral deafening leads to the alternation of contralateral dominance in the early period, replaced by faster and massive reorganization toward the ipsilateral cortex. But, gradual adaptation in the contralateral side was exclusively observed. Given the short critical period in the young SSD model, early intervention may be crucial for the development of binaural hearing if SSD occurs early in life.
Interaction Between Regulatory T Cells and Antibody-Producing B Cells for Immune Responses at the Upper Respiratory Mucosa Against Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae: In Vitro Assay Model
Authors: Hirano Takashi , Kadowaki Yoshinori , Matsunaga Takayuki , Yoshinaga Kazuhiro , Kawano Toshiaki , Moriyama Munehito , Suzuki Masashi
Published: May 2019

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of regulatory T cells (Tregs) on B-cell immune responses against outer membrane protein (OMP) from nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) in vitro, to clarify its exact mechanism from an immunologic standpoint.

Methods:

Mice were vaccinated intranasally with OMP to induce OMP-specific immune responses in the nasal mucosa. Mononuclear cells (MNCs) were collected from the nasal mucosa, and Tregs and helper T (Th) cells were isolated separately from the spleens of those mice. Three different cell culture groups were allocated: MNCs cocultured with Tregs, MNCs cocultured with Th cells, and MNCs cultured alone. At 24 and 72 hours after cell culture, the concentrations of various cytokines and antibodies in culture supernatants were measured to assess the effects of Tregs and Th cells on B-cell responses. Cytokine levels and specific anti-OMP antibody levels in culture media were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. CD69 or CD80 expression on B220-positive cells was detected using flow cytometric analysis.

Results:

Th1 and Th2 cytokine concentrations were significantly elevated in the 3 groups incubated with OMP from 24 to 72 hours. Additionally, interleukin-10 levels were significantly higher in the Treg and Th groups than in the control group. Levels of OMP-specific immunoglobulin A did not differ significantly among the groups. The ratios of CD69+B220+ B2 cells were nearly the same in the 3 groups; however, the ratio of CD80+B220+ B2 cells was higher in the control group than in the Treg and Th groups during incubation.

Conclusions:

Tregs and Th cells did not affect OMP-specific immunoglobulin A production in this study. However, these cells may partially inhibit B-cell functions, such as T-cell activation. These inhibitory effects may be related to interleukin-10.
Effects of OSA Surgery on Ophthalmological Microstructures
Authors: Lin Pei-Wen , Lin Hsin-Ching , Friedman Michael , Chang Hsueh-Wen , Salapatas Anna M. , Lin Meng-Chih , Chin Chien-Hung
Published: May 2019

Objective:

Obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSA) could compromise oxygenation of the optic nerve and cause glaucomatous optic neuropathy; however, there were no studies to investigate the changes of visual function and retinal microstructures in OSA patients after upper airway surgery. We aim to assess the changes in the visual sensitivity and retinal fiber layer thickness in OSA patients before and after surgery.

Methods:

This prospective single-blind study enrolled patients with OSA from a tertiary academic medical center who had unsuccessful conservative therapy and then underwent surgery. The patients were referred for comprehensive ophthalmologic evaluation at baseline and 6 months after OSA surgery. The polysomnographic findings were collected pre- and postoperatively. Visual sensitivities on standard automated perimetry (SAP) were assessed. Peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness and macular layer (ML) thickness parameters were measured by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Results:

A total of 108 OSA patients were enrolled. Six months after surgery, the major parameters of polysomnography (PSG), mean deviation, and pattern standard deviation of SAP significantly improved in these OSA patients. Regarding the OCT parameters, thickness of ML in the nasal-outer, superior-inner, temporal-inner, inferior-inner, nasal-inner sectors, and total ML thickness significantly increased 6 months after upper airway surgery in the severe OSA group (apnea/hypopnea index ⩾30 per hour).

Conclusion:

The visual sensitivities on SAP, ML thickness on OCT, and oxygenation status on PSG significantly improved 6 months after upper airway surgery in patients with severe OSA. Upper airway surgery may ameliorate the microstructures of the retina in patients with severe OSA.
A Graphical Method for Displaying the Model Fit of Item Response Theory Trace Lines
Authors: Kalinowski Steven T.
Published: May 2019

Item response theory (IRT) is a statistical paradigm for developing educational tests and assessing students. IRT, however, currently lacks an established graphical method for examining model fit for the three-parameter logistic model, the most flexible and popular IRT model in educational testing. A method is presented here to do this. The graph, which is referred to herein as a “bin plot,” is the IRT equivalent of a scatterplot for linear regression. Bin plots display a conventional IRT trace line (with ability on the horizontal axis and probability correct on the vertical axis). Students are binned according to how well they performed on the entire test, and the proportion of students in each bin who answered the focal question correctly is displayed on the graph as points above or below the trace line. With this arrangement, the difference between each point and the trace line is the residual for the bin. Confidence intervals can be added to the observed proportions in order to display uncertainty. Computer simulations were used to test four alternative ways for binning students. These simulations showed that binning students according to number of questions they answered correctly on the entire test works best. Simulations also showed confidence intervals for bin plots had coverage probabilities close to nominal values for common testing scenarios, but that there are scenarios in which confidence intervals had inflated error rates.
A study on load position control and vibration attenuation in crane operation using sub-actuator
Authors: Lee Dong-Hoon , Kim Tae-Wan , Ji Sang-Won , Kim Young-Bok
Published: May 2019

The main purpose of any crane system is to move a load to a specified place. Accurate load positioning in the presence of unpredictable external factors is an important issue when operating a crane. Attenuation of load vibration during crane operation is immensely critical in order to satisfy rigorous requirements for safety and efficiency. When a crane is installed and operated on a vessel at sea, work conditions become even more difficult and thus require more stringent attention to load positioning and attenuation of load vibration. At sea, this process is complicated due to factors such as waves and wind, making accurate crane operation nearly impossible. For these reasons, active heave compensation systems have been developed to suppress the effects of disturbances raised from the harsh sea environment including vessel motions. This paper explores the suppression method of unexpected vertical vibration of load. Unlike past research on the topic, this research includes rope dynamics in the control system design for suppressing load vibration. In addition, this research considers uncertain disturbances—vessel motions not controlled by any active force that result in undesirable heave motion of a crane. Load motion is indirectly estimated using a load cell because we do not yet have any useful tool to measure it directly. In the considered crane system, two winches were used, one for moving the load and the other for suppressing residual vibration. To evaluate the proposed control strategy and system performance, several control techniques were applied: proportional–integral–derivative control, sliding mode control, and feedback linearization control methods.
Improving Educational Quality Through Curriculum Development: An Empirical Investigation Using Stakeholder Feedback Data
Authors: Islam Amirul
Published: May 2019

Using feedback data from stakeholders, the study examines several aspects of the curriculum offered by a program offering entity (POE) in Bangladesh. Analysis of the data shows that the opinions of the stakeholders from various groups resonate together for evaluation areas like need assessment, curriculum mapping, and feedback mechanism. However, opinions expressed by students, both current and alumni, diverge from the opinions expressed by the academic community on matters like “program load.” The qualitative analysis of the text data obtained through some open-ended questions reveals that the respondents support an academic environment free from campus politics and incorporation of more courses related to Information Communication Technology (ICT) for curriculum development.
Experiences, Attitudes, and Behaviors of the Unemployed: The Role of Motivation and Psychological Needs
Authors: van der Vaart Leoni , Van den Broeck Anja , Rothmann Sebastiaan , Witte Hans De
Published: May 2019

Alleviating the psychological burden of unemployment and preventing the unemployed from withdrawing from the labor market remains a priority for unemployment researchers and practitioners alike. Job search motivation and the differential relationships with experienced psychological need satisfaction (and need frustration) potentially induce different well-being (i.e., experiences), attitudinal outcomes (i.e., employment commitment), and behavioral outcomes (i.e., job search intensity) in unemployment. This study examined if job search motivation relates to the experiences, attitudes, and behavior of the unemployed over time through basic need satisfaction and frustration. In a two-wave study ( nT1 = 461; nT2 = 244), the results demonstrated that job search motivation has no relationship with the affective experiences, attitudes toward employment, and job search behavior over time. It also showed that only controlled motivation and amotivation were significantly related to need frustration. Finally, only psychological need satisfaction, and not the frustration of their needs, was significantly related to affective experiences over time. The implications for unemployment and self-determination theory research are discussed, and recommendations for practitioners are made.
California Healthy Places Index: Frames Matter
Authors: Maizlish Neil , Delaney Tracy , Dowling Helen , Chapman Derek A. , Sabo Roy , Woolf Steven , Orndahl Christine , Hill Latoya , Snellings Lauren
Published: May 2019

Introduction:

We describe the California Healthy Places Index (HPI) and its performance relative to other indexes for measuring community well-being at the census-tract level. The HPI arose from a need identified by health departments and community organizations for an index rooted in the social determinants of health for place-based policy making and program targeting. The index was geographically granular, validated against life expectancy at birth, and linked to policy actions.

Materials and Methods:

Guided by literature, public health experts, and a positive asset frame, we developed a composite index of community well-being for California from publicly available census-tract data on place-based factors linked to health. The 25 HPI indicators spanned 8 domains; weights were derived from their empirical association with tract-level life expectancy using weighted quantile sums methods.

Results:

The HPI’s domains were aligned with the social determinants of health and policy action areas of economic resources, education, housing, transportation, clean environment, neighborhood conditions, social resources, and health care access. The overall HPI score was the sum of weighted domain scores, of which economy and education were highly influential (50% of total weights). The HPI was strongly associated with life expectancy at birth ( r = 0.58). Compared with the HPI, a pollution-oriented index did not capture one-third of the most disadvantaged quartile of census tracts (representing 3 million Californians). Overlap of the HPI’s most disadvantaged quartile of census tracts was greater for indexes of economic deprivation. We visualized the HPI percentile ranking as a web-based mapping tool that presented the HPI at multiple geographies and that linked indicators to an action-oriented policy guide.

Practice Implications:

The framing of indexes and specifications such as domain weighting have substantial consequences for prioritizing disadvantaged populations. The HPI provides a model for tools and new methods that help prioritize investments and identify multisectoral opportunities for policy action.
International Tourism Dynamics in a Globalized World: A Social Network Analysis Approach
Authors: Chung Min Gon , Herzberger Anna , Frank Kenneth A. , Liu Jianguo
Published: May 2019

A complex network of tourism has emerged in the globalized world, but there is little research on the dynamics of global tourism networks and the underlying forces that affect those dynamics. Using international tourism data for 124 countries between 2000 and 2013, we integrated cluster analyses and social network models to identify the structures of global tourism networks and uncover factors affecting changes in international tourist flows. Results indicate that global tourism networks have become highly consolidated over time and that reduced transaction costs (e.g., language, distance, and visa policies) are more important in attracting international tourists than natural and cultural attractions. Furthermore, cost of living differences between countries decreased in importance over time. Finally, international tourist flows are resilient to political instability and terrorism risks. Our approach and findings highlight the key strategic factors for decision-making to implement proactive tourism policies.
Leiomyosarcoma of the Larynx: Diagnosis Aided by Advances in Immunohistochemical Staining
Authors: Wadhwa Ashish Kumar , Gallivan Holly , O'Hara Brian J. , Rao Vijay M. , Lowry Louis D.
Published: May 2019

We present only the 12th reported case of a laryngeal leiomyosarcoma. This tumor was diagnosed with the aid of the newer immunohistochemical stains on archival paraffin-embedded tissue. The diagnosis and management of these tumors is based largely on the patterns seen in the small number of earlier reported cases of head and neck leiomyosarcomas and laryngeal sarcomas.
Gustatory Sweating Syndrome of the Submandibular Gland
Authors: Persaud Neil A. , Myer Charles M. , Rutter Michael J.
Published: May 2019

Gustatory sweating syndrorne involving the submandibular gland is rare. We present a case of a patient who experienced this syndrome 5 years after undergoing submandibular gland resection. Our patient was satisfied simply with an explanation of the disorder and reassurance. But in cases where further intervention is sought, medical and surgical options are available and should be individualized for the patient.
Bilateral Laryngoceles in a Young Trumpet Player: Case Report
Authors: Isaacson Glenn , Sataloff Robert T.
Published: May 2019

We report the case of a 16-year-old trumpet player who was referred for an otolaryngologic consultation after his band leader noticed that a neck mass would protrude while the boy was playing. X-rays revealed the presence of bilateral laryngoceles, and computed tomography demonstrated bilateral, air-filled outpouchings of the laryngeal saccules during forced expiration. There was no evidence of any other intralaryngeal or cervical pathology. Surgery was deferred while the laryngoceles remained reducible and asymptomatic, and the boy was cleared to continue playing.
Rebuilding the Inferior Turbinate with Hydroxyapatite Cement
Authors: Rice Dale H.
Published: May 2019

This article describes a method of reconstructing a totally resected inferior turbinate with hydroxyapatite cement in patients who experience symptoms often associated with an overzealous resection of the turbinate (the “empty nose “ syndrome).
Management of the Unknown Primary in Patients with Metastatic Cancer of the Head and Neck
Authors: Gabalski Edward C. , Belles William
Published: May 2019

The evaluation of the patient with metastatic cervical lymph node squamous cell carcinoma and an unknown primary tumor frequently involves the use of guided biopsies as a diagnostic tool. This study was performed to assess the effectiveness of these biopsies. Using a retrospective chart review, we identified 25 patients who had undergone a total of 100 guided biopsies to evaluate an unknown primary malignancy of the head and neck. We found that 99 of the 100 biopsies were negative for malignancy. Although guided biopsies were obviously not helpful in these cases, we believe this might be attributable to the fact that the method of performing them is inconsistent among surgeons. Therefore, we present an algorithm for the management of the unknown primary head and neck malignancy, including recommendations regarding the use of guided biopsies.
Initial Report of a Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma Appearing on the Auricular Helix
Authors: Baumgartner Brian J. , Eusterman Vincent , Myers Jerome , Massengill Phillip
Published: May 2019

We report a case of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma in which the first sign of disease was involvement of the superior auricular helix. A review of the literature reveals that T-cell lymphoma often presents cutaneously, but it usually does not involve the ear, and an auricular lesion is rarely the first sign. The uncommon nature of this presentation, in addition to the potential need for multiple biopsies for a tissue diagnosis, can lead to a delay in diagnosis. When evaluating skin lesions in the head and neck, a high index of suspicion for cutaneous T-cell lymphoma is a key factor in its early diagnosis.
Immobile Vocal Fold Secondary to Thyroid Abscess: A Case Report
Authors: Myssiorek David , Lee James , Shikowitz Mark , Sarnataro Robert
Published: May 2019

Vocal fold paralysis as a result of a thyroid abscess is extremely rare. In this article, we report only the second documented case of such a finding. The paralysis was discovered after our patient, a 40-year-old woman, had come to the office with a complaint of discomfort in the right lower neck. Computed tomography confirmed the presence of an abscess in the posterior thyroid gland. Fine-needle aspiration did not identify any inflammatory or suspicious cells. The abscess was treated with hemithyroidectomy, and the paralysis resolved 3 weeks later. There has been no recurrence after 4 years.
A Case of Harotrauma-Induced Pneumolabyrinth Secondary to Perilymphatic Fistula
Authors: McGhee Michael A. , Dornhoffer John L.
Published: May 2019

We report the case of a 62-year-old woman who experienced pneumolabyrinth associated with a perilymphatic fistula. Her condition was diagnosed with the help of computed tomography, which detected the presence of an air bubble in the labyrinth, and middle ear exploration, which revealed that clear fluid was emanating from the round window niche in a manner consistent with the presence of a perilymphatic fistula. The niche was repaired with tragal perichondrium and bolstered with Gelfoam.
Cephalometric Comparisons of Craniofacial and Upper Airway Structures in Young Children with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome
Authors: Kawashima Shigeto , Niikuni Naoko , Chia-hung Lo , Takahasi Yasuo , Kohno Masayoshi , Nakajima Ichiro , Akasaka Morito , Sakata Hideaki , Akashi Shunji
Published: May 2019

We studied 15 children of preschool age who had obstructive sleep apnea syndrome to evaluate their dentofacial morphology in relation to the pharyngeal airway space. We found that (1) sleep apnea was often associated with mandibular retrognathia, (2) the lower incisors tended to exhibit a retrocline, (3) there were no significant differences in angular and linear measurements in the cranial base between patients with sleep apnea and a control group of 30 nonapneic children, and (4) the apneic children had a narrower epipharyngeal airway space than did the controls. These findings suggest that obstructive sleep apnea is probably caused by both adenoidal hypertrophy and abnormal development of the facial skeleton. We highly recommend cephalometric analysis as a valuable tool for conducting the presurgical evaluation of sleep apnea in children of preschool age.
Basal Cell Carcinoma Metastatic to the Parotid: Report of a New Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Malone James P. , Fedok Fred G. , Belchis Deborah A. , Maloney Mary E.
Published: May 2019

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common of the cutaneous malignancies, accounting for 65 to 75% of all skin cancers. The natural history of this disease is one of chronic local invasion. Metastatic basal cell carcinoma is a rare clinical entity, with a reported incidence of only 0.0028 to 0.5%. Approximately 85% of all metastatic basal cell carcinomas arise in the head and neck region. We present a case of basal cell carcinoma that spread to the parotid gland in a man who had multiple lesions on his scalp and face. We also review the literature on metastatic basal cell carcinoma of the head and neck, and we discuss its epidemiology, etiology, histopathology, and treatment.
Fascioperiosteal Flap and Neo-Osteogenesis in Radical Mastoidectomy: Long-Term Results
Authors: Kahramanyol Mustafa , Özünlü Adnan , Pabusçu Yüksel
Published: May 2019

We performed an analysis of long-term outcomes data on 60 patients with chronic otitis media with cholesteatoma who had undergone a surgical procedure based on an improved radical mastoidectomy and an inferiorly based fascioperiosteal flap. We found that at the 2-, 7-, 10-, and 13-year postoperative followup visits, all mastoid cavities were healthy and reduced in volume. At the final examination, the mean cavity volume was found to be decreased by 39% of the mean volume measured 1 month postoperatively. This reduction in volume is attributable to the neo-osteogenic activity of the flap, which was confirmed by histopathologic and radiologic findings. No recurrences took place.
Combined Vestibular Neurectomy and Endolymphatic sac Shunt via the Retrosigmoid Approach in the Treatment of Ménière's Disease
Authors: Rivas José Antonio , Guzmán José Eduardo
Published: May 2019

The nature of surgical treatment for Ménière's disease has evolved from destructive to conservative in the interest of preserving hearing. We have performed a combined procedure that involves a vestibular neurectomy to control vertigo, which is followed by an endolymphatic sac shunt to control hydrops in 26 patients. Both procedures are performed via the retrosigmoid approach during the same surgical step. We believe this combination procedure is a worthwhile option to consider in order to achieve good control of vertigo and endolymphatic hydrops and to preserve hearing in patients with Ménière's disease.
Sinusitis-induced Enophthalmos: The Silent Sinus Syndrome
Authors: Hunt Scott M. , Tami Thomas A.
Published: May 2019

Enophthalmos caused by inadequate maxillary sinus function was first reported in 1964. Since this initial report, scattered case reports and, more recently, reviews have appeared in the literature detailing the pathophysiology, clinical findings, and management of this process. We present a classic case of the asymptomatic development of enophthalmos caused by maxillary sinus hypoventilation: the silent sinus syndrome. In addition, this case included findings in the ethmoid sinuses that suggested their contribution to this disorder, which by our review of the literature has not been well described.
Maxillary Giant Cell Granuloma, Pheochromocytoma, and Hyperparathyroidism without Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: McManus Ruth , BoAbbas Yousef , Lampe Howard , Holliday Ron , Shum David
Published: May 2019

We examined a young man who had a benign giant cell granuloma of the maxilla, which we subsequently diagnosed as a brown tumor associated with hyperparathyroidism. During surgery for the granuloma, the patient developed severe hypertension and was discovered to have an extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma. Oncogene and calcitonin testing for medullary carcinoma of the thyroid was negative. Therefore, despite the presence of both pheochromocytoma and hyperparathyroidism, we concluded that this patient did not have multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2a.
Screening for Otitis Media with Effusion to Measure its Prevalence in Chinese Children in Hong Kong
Authors: Tong Michael C.F. , Yue Virgil , Ku Peter K.M. , Lo Phoebe S.Y. , Van Hasselt C. Andrew
Published: May 2019

In an attempt to gain a better understanding of the prevalence of otitis media with effusion (OME) in the Hong Kong community, and to compare the characteristics of the disease here with OME as it is described in the Western literature, we screened more than 6,000 6- and 7-year-old children with both clinical and audiologic examinations. The initial positive screening rate was 5.3%. Upon further evaluation, we determined that the overall prevalence of persistent OME was 2.2%. We found that the disease pattern and natural history of persistent OME in Hong Kong children are similar to those reported in the Western literature.
Audiometric Manifestations of Waardenburg's Syndrome
Authors: Oysu Cagatay , Baserer Nermin , Tinaz Mehmet
Published: May 2019

We studied 23 patients (from 11 families) who had Waardenburg's syndrome. Patients were evaluated by conventional audiometric methods and by distortion-product otoacoustic emissions to determine the penetrance and the degree and type of hearing loss. Twelve of the patients had the type I form of the syndrome and 11 had type II. Overall, we found hearing loss in 19 of the 23 patients (83%); hearing loss affected nine type I patients (75%) and 10 type II patients (91%). Five type I patients (42%) and eight type II patients (73%) had a hearing loss of >100 dB. Bilateral symmetrical hearing loss was the most common type of loss, as it was seen in six of the type I patients (50%) and eight of the type II patients (73%). At lower frequencies, distortion-product otoacoustic emission amplitudes were found to be significantly above the noise floor in five of the 11 patients whose hearing thresholds were 60 dB HL or worse by click auditory brainstem response testing. These findings led us to conclude that it is necessary to use otoacoustic emissions in patients with Waardenburg's syndrome in order to provide optimum fitting of hearing aids, especially in children.
Nasopharyngeal Cyst of Branchiogenic Origin: Report of a Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Verma Ashok , Sohail M.A. , Al-Khabori Mazin , Moosa Mohammed
Published: May 2019

To date, only 22 cases of nasopharyngeal cyst of branchiogenic origin have been reported in the literature. In this article, we report a new case in a 35-year-old woman. We also present a review of the literature and a discussion of the sites of origin, histopathology, and treatment modalities.
Human Papillomavirus in Tonsillar and Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: Isolation of HPV Subtype 31
Authors: Lopez-Lizarraga Eduardo , Sanchez-Corona Jose , Montoya-Fuentes Hector , Bravo-Cuellar Alejandro , Campollo-Rivas Octavio , Lopez-Demerutis Eduardo , Morgan-Villela Gilberto , Arcaute-Velazquez Fernando , Monreal-Martinez Juan Angel , Troyo Rogelio
Published: May 2019

We retrospectively studied biopsy specimens obtained from 16 patients who had carcinoma of the tonsil or nasopharynx. Polymerase chain reaction testing detected the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) in 13 samples (81.3%)—six tonsillar and seven nasopharyngeal. Eleven of the 13 positive samples (84.6%) contained HPV subtype 31. We believe that this is the first report of the presence of HPV subtype 31 in these carcinomas. In addition to the significant association between tonsillar and nasopharyngeal cancer and HPV, our analysis of descriptive variables confirmed the association between the incidence of these neoplasms and poor oral hygiene and low socioeconomic status in older adults.