bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Proton Pump Inhibitors and Histamine 2 Blockers Are Associated with Improved Overall Survival in Patients with Head and Neck Squamous Carcinoma
Authors: Papagerakis Silvana , Bellile Emily , Peterson Lisa A. , Pliakas Maria , Balaskas Katherine , Selman Sara , Hanauer David , Taylor Jeremy M.G. , Duffy Sonia , Wolf Gregory 
Published: December 2014

Abstract
It has been postulated that gastroesophageal reflux plays a role in the etiology of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) and contributes to complications after surgery or during radiotherapy. Antacid medications are commonly used in patients with HNSCC for the management of acid reflux; however, their relationship with outcomes has not been well studied. Associations between histamine receptor-2 antagonists (H2RA) and proton pump inhibitors (PPI) use and treatment outcomes were determined in 596 patients with previously untreated HNSCC enrolled in our SPORE epidemiology program from 2003 to 2008 (median follow-up 55 months). Comprehensive clinical information was entered prospectively in our database. Risk strata were created on the basis of possible confounding prognostic variables (age, demographics, socioeconomics, tumor stage, primary site, smoking status, HPV16 status, and treatment modality); correlations within risk strata were analyzed in a multivariable model. Patients taking antacid medications had significantly better overall survival (OS; PPI alone: P &lt; 0.001; H2RA alone, P = 0.0479; both PPI + H2RA, P = 0.0133). Using multivariable Cox models and adjusting for significant prognostic covariates, both PPIs and H2RAs used were significant prognostic factors for OS, but only H2RAs use for recurrence-free survival in HPV16-positive oropharyngeal patients. We found significant associations between the use of H2RAs and PPIs, alone or in combination, and various clinical characteristics. The findings in this large cohort study indicate that routine use of antacid medications may have significant therapeutic benefit in patients with HNSCC. The reasons for this association remain an active area of investigation and could lead to identification of new treatment and prevention approaches with agents that have minimal toxicities. Cancer Prev Res; 7(12); 1258–69. ©2014 AACR.
Remarks on the Genizah Judaeo-Syriac Fragment
Authors: Bhayro Siam 
Published: December 2014

In a previous issue of Aramaic Studies, I published a Judaeo-Syriac medical fragment from the Cairo Genizah (S. Bhayro, ‘A Judaeo-Syriac Medical Fragment from the Cairo Genizah’, Aramaic Studies 10 (2012), pp. 153–172.). I present here a revised edition with brief notes, as well as two brief remarks on the languages employed and the phonetic nature of the transcription.
Assessment of NASA GISS CMIP5 and Post-CMIP5 Simulated Clouds and TOA Radiation Budgets Using Satellite Observations. Part II: TOA Radiation Budget and CREs
Authors: Stanfield Ryan E. , Dong Xiquan , Xi Baike , Del Genio Anthony D. , Minnis Patrick , Doelling David , Loeb Norman 
Published: December 2014

Abstract
In Part I of this study, the NASA GISS Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) and post-CMIP5 (herein called C5 and P5, respectively) simulated cloud properties were assessed utilizing multiple satellite observations, with a particular focus on the southern midlatitudes (SMLs). This study applies the knowledge gained from Part I of this series to evaluate the modeled TOA radiation budgets and cloud radiative effects (CREs) globally using CERES EBAF (CE) satellite observations and the impact of regional cloud properties and water vapor on the TOA radiation budgets. Comparisons revealed that the P5- and C5-simulated global means of clear-sky and all-sky outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) match well with CE observations, while biases are observed regionally. Negative biases are found in both P5- and C5-simulated clear-sky OLR. P5-simulated all-sky albedo slightly increased over the SMLs due to the increase in low-level cloud fraction from the new planetary boundary layer (PBL) scheme. Shortwave, longwave, and net CRE are quantitatively analyzed as well. Regions of strong large-scale atmospheric upwelling/downwelling motion are also defined to compare regional differences across multiple cloud and radiative variables. In general, the P5 and C5 simulations agree with the observations better over the downwelling regime than over the upwelling regime. Comparing the results herein with the cloud property comparisons presented in Part I, the modeled TOA radiation budgets and CREs agree well with the CE observations. These results, combined with results in Part I, have quantitatively estimated how much improvement is found in the P5-simulated cloud and radiative properties, particularly over the SMLs and tropics, due to the implementation of the new PBL and convection schemes.
Health professionals’ perspectives on exercise referral and physical activity promotion in primary care: Findings from a process evaluation of the National Exercise Referral Scheme in Wales
Authors: Din Nafees U , Moore Graham F , Murphy Simon , Wilkinson Clare , Williams Nefyn H 
Published: November 2014

Background and objectives: Referring clinicians’ experiences of exercise referral schemes (ERS) can provide valuable insights into their uptake. However, most qualitative studies focus on patient views only. This paper explores health professionals’ perceptions of their role in promoting physical activity and experiences of a National Exercise Referral Scheme (NERS) in Wales. Design: Qualitative semi-structured group interviews. Setting: General practice premises. Methods: Nine semi-structured group interviews involving 46 health professionals were conducted on general practice premises in six local health board areas. Purposive sampling taking into account area deprivation, practice size and referral rates was employed. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using the Framework method of thematic analysis. Results: Health professionals described physical activity promotion as important, although many thought it was outside of their expertise and remit, and less important than other health promotion activities such as smoking cessation. Professionals linked decisions on whether to advise physical activity to patients to their own physical activity levels and to subjective judgements of patient motivation. While some described ERS as a holistic alternative to medication, with potential social benefits, others expressed concerns regarding their limited reach and potential to exacerbate inequalities. Barriers to referral included geographic isolation and uncertainties about patient selection criteria, medico-legal responsibilities and a lack of feedback about patient progress. Conclusion: Clinicians’ concerns about expertise, priority setting and time constraints should be addressed to enhance physical activity promotion in primary care. Further research is needed to fully understand decision making relating to provision of physical activity advice and use of ERS.
An augmented cognitive behavioural therapy for treating post-stroke depression: description of a treatment protocol
Authors: Kootker Joyce A , Rasquin Sascha MC , Smits Peter , Geurts Alexander C , van Heugten Caroline M , Fasotti Luciano 
Published: December 2014

Aim: Currently, no evidence-based treatment is available for mood problems after stroke. We present a new psychological intervention designed to reduce depressive complaints after stroke. Method of protocol development: This intervention was based on cognitive behavioural therapy principles and was shown feasible in a pilot study. In order to meet the specific needs of stroke patients (concerning both sensori-motor, cognitive, and behavioural problems), we incorporated motivational interviewing, grief resolution, and psycho-education. We emphasised for each session to take into account the cognitive deficits of the patients (i.e. be concrete, accessible, structured, specific, and repeat information). Moreover, we augmented the psychologist-administered therapy with the contribution of an occupational or movement therapist aimed at facilitating patients’ goal-setting and attainment. The intervention consisted of 12 one-hour sessions with a psychologist and three or four one-hour sessions with an occupational or movement therapist. Currently, the effectiveness of the intervention is evaluated in a randomised controlled trial. Discussion: The proposed psychological treatment protocol is innovative, as it applies cognitive behavioural therapy in a stroke-specific manner; moreover, it supports goal attainment by incorporating occupational or movement therapy sessions.
Magnetic resonance imaging characteristics of hepatocyte apoptosis (induced by right portal vein ligation) and necrosis (induced by combined right portal vein and right hepatic artery ligation) in rats
Authors: Huang Bingcang , Geng Daoying , Zhan Songhua , Li Huanhuan , Xu Xiaolan , Yi Chunyan 
Published: December 2014

Objective Using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), this study aimed to demonstrate the appearance of hepatocytes following ligation of the right portal vein or combined ligation of the right portal vein and right hepatic artery, in a rat model. Methods Ninety adult Sprague–Dawley rats (body weight 250–300 g) were divided into three groups ( n = 30 per group): ligation of the right portal vein (Group A); combined ligation of the right portal vein and right hepatic artery (Group B); no intervention to obstruct blood supply (control group). Rats were then randomly subdivided into five groups that underwent examination at 3 h and 1, 3, 7 and 14 days postprocedure ( n = 6 per group). Livers were examined by routine MRI, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). After examination, each group of rats was sacrificed. Right hepatic lobes were removed and examined by pathology in six rats per timepoint; transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was undertaken in up to three rats per timepoint. Results Hepatocyte apoptosis and necrosis, by right portal vein ligation and combined right portal vein and right hepatic artery ligation respectively, were confirmed by pathology and TEM. In Group A, there were slight increases in intensity of T1- and T2-weighted images and in the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC). In addition there were larger areas under the lactic acid and lipid peaks on MRS. In Group B, there were increased T1 and T2 signals, a decrease in the ADC and an increase of the area under the lactic acid peaks on MRS. Conclusions Hepatocyte apoptosis and necrosis induced by ligation procedures exhibited specific changes that were evident on MRI, DWI and MRS, and could be detected in vivo by MRI, in a rat model.
Concurrent Specialized Palliative Care Upon Initiation of First-Line Chemotherapy for Cancer Progression
Authors: Nakajima Nobuhisa , Abe Yasushi 
Published: November 2014

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of specialized palliative care (PC) administered at the time of administration of first-line chemotherapy for cancer progression. Methods: Patients who received regular specialist PC concomitantly with first-line chemotherapy after being diagnosed with progressive disease assigned to PC group. Patients transferred to palliative care unit (PCU) after discontinuation of chemotherapy were assigned to standard care (SC) group. We evaluated quality of palliative care using Support Team Assessment Schedule, quality of life (QOL) using Good Death Inventory, and short-term mortality in PCU. Results: A total of 28 and 63 patients patients were assigned to PC and SC groups, respectively. Physical symptoms, anxiety, communication scores, and QOL scores were significantly higher in the PC group ( P < .001). Short-term mortality (<14 days) was significantly higher in the SC group ( P = .0005). Conclusion: This approach may facilitate high quality of PC.
Focal demyelinative damage and neighboring white matter integrity: an optic neuritis study
Authors: Raz N , Bick AS , Ben-Hur T , Levin N 
Published: November 2014

Background: Neuronal loss following damage is often greater than expected from the severity of injury to the nerve itself. The visual pathways, which comprise a well-defined system, and optic neuritis (ON), which is usually a discrete event, make a fine model to study this phenomenon. Objective: Understand the effect of focal optic nerve demyelination on neighboring white matter. Methods: Diffusion tensor imaging and probabilistic tractography were used to identify and characterize the optic tracts and radiations of 17 ON and matched controls. Data were correlated with retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness. Results: Patients’ optic tracts exhibited reduced axial diffusivity, which correlated with RNFL thickness values. Patients’ optic radiations demonstrated intact axial diffusivity but reduced fractional anisotropy and elevated radial diffusivity, which could be explained by intra-bundle lesions. No correlations were found between diffusivity measurements in patients’ optic tracts and radiations; or between RNFL thickness and optic radiations’ diffusivity. Conclusions: Following ON, chronic axonal loss develops distally in the optic tracts, demonstrating Wallerian degeneration. Degeneration did not proceed to the optic radiations, opposing anterograde trans-neuronal changes. DTI in ON provides fine in-vivo human model for studying histological abnormalities in normal appearing white matter, localized in close proximity to damaged bundle.
Laparoscopic Surgery In The Treatment of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
Authors: Matlok M. , Stanek M. , Pedziwiatr M. , Major P. , Kulawik J. , Budzynski P. 
Published: December 2014

Background and Aims: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors are rare neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract. These lesions are characterized by different levels of malignancy. Only radical surgery offers a chance of curing the disease. The aim of this study is to present the results of gastrointestinal stromal tumor treatment with minimally invasive surgery. Material and Methods: The study group included 27 patients operated laparoscopically on for gastrointestinal stromal tumor with laparoscopic surgery between September 2009 and December 2013. The most common location of the tumor was the stomach (21 patients, 77.8%) and the small intestine (4 patients, 14.8%). We analyzed early surgery results, the number and character of complications, lengths of hospital stays, histological types of the removed tumors, and long-term results of treatment. Results: There was no need for conversion to open surgery in any patient from the study group. Post-surgery complications occurred in 2 patients (7.4%). The median duration of the hospital stay was 4.5 days; none of the patients had to be readmitted to the hospital in the first 30 days after the procedure. In 26 out of 27 patients, microscopic examination confirmed the radicality of the surgical procedure (R0 resection). The mean size of the removed lesions was 4.1 cm. Using the Joensuu malignancy classification model, it was established that in 6 (22.2%) patients gastrointestinal stromal tumor was characterized by a very low level of malignancy, in 11 patients (40.7%) a low level, in 4 (14.9%) a medium level, and in 6 (22.2%) a high level. The average duration of follow-up was 13 months. During the observation period, there was no recurrence of the disease. Conclusion: Minimally invasive surgery in the treatment of gastrointestinal stromal tumors is possible and allows for satisfactory results both in terms of the postoperative course and the oncological quality of the procedure.
Opening Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy Using Tricalcium Phosphate Wedge
Authors: Zehir Sinan , Çalbıyık Murat , Şahin Ercan , Kalem Mahmut , Songür Murat , İpek Deniz 
Published: December 2014

Objectives: High tibial osteotomy is a standard procedure indicated for early medial sided osteoarthritis in varus knees. In this study, we present the early results of high tibial open wedge osteotomy cases using beta-tricalcium phosphate as a graft substitute and Otis-c plate. Methods: Between years 2010 and 2013, 47 cases of (34F, 13 M) medial compartmental gonarthrosis with genu varum deformity treated with high tibial osteotomy, were evaluated with at least one year follow-up, preoperatively both clinically and radiologically. Clinical evaluation involved functional assessment and pain evaluation using Lysholm and visual analog scale (VAS) scores, including knee range-of-motion. Radiological evaluation included medial joint space measurements on weight bearing knee radiographs with measurements of varus angle and posterior tibial slope. Surgical procedure included standard arthroscopy followed by medial sided opening wedge osteotomy with correction of the varus deformity using β- tricalcium phosphate graft substitute and fixation of the osteotomy site using Otis-C plate and locking screws. All patients were evaluated at the end of minimum one-year follow-up period. Results: Mean age of the patients was 56,7 (50- 65) years and mean follow-up period was 24,5 (12- 44) months. Mean duration of surgery was 47,4±10.2 minutes. No case of nonunion, delayed union, neurovascular injury or iatrogenic fracture was encountered. Two cases developed deep vein thrombosis and one case developed superficial wound infection managed successfully by local debridement with retention of implants and antibiotics. Mean duration of union was 13,4±2.7 weeks. Mean preoperative and follow-up range-of-motion were measured as 131±8.9 and 129±9.1 respectively with no statistical difference. Preoperative and follow-up VAS scores showed significant difference as 7.6±1.76 and 2.3±1.08 respectively (p=0.001). Also Lysholm scores improved significantly at the end of the follow-up period (43.23±4.01 vs. 76.3±3.7 p<0,001). Radiological evaluation revealed mean correction angle of 10.84±2.70 degrees at follow-up. Mean posterior tibial slope was measured relatively unchanged (8.6±1.70° degrees preoperatively versus 8.2±2.30° follow-up). Medial joint space width measurements showed a significant increase (pre-op 3.7±1.6 mm. versus 4.6±1.32 mm. at the follow-up (p<0.001)). Conclusion: Medial opening wedge osteotomy for treatment of early medial compartment gonarthrosis in varus knees is still a valuable option. Our short term preliminary results using beta-tricalcium phosphate wedge graft substitute and Otis-c plate-screw osteosynthesis revealed satisfactory short term clinical and radiological results with acceptable complication rates.
Which one Enhances Muscular Performance in ACL Reconstructed Subjects
Authors: Harput Gulcan , Ulusoy Burak , Atay Ahmet Ozgur , Baltacı Gul 
Published: December 2014

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of functional knee brace and kinesiotaping on muscular performance in anterior cruciate ligament reconstructed subjects who reached return to sport phase of the rehabilitation. Methods: Twenty (17 males, 3 females, Age: 24.7±7.1 years, Body weight: 74.4±12.0 kg, Height: 177.9±6.5 cm, BMI: 23.9±3.6 kg/m2) subjects who underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction by using hamstring tendon auto graft were included in this study. When the subjects reached the return to sports phase of rehabilitation which was 6th months after surgery, knee muscle strength, jump performance and balance tests were performed 3 times: bare, with knee brace and with kinesio taping. The order of the tests were randomized to eliminate the effects of fatigue and motor learning. Quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength was measured on an isokinetic dynamometer at 180 °/s and 60°/s angular velocities. Vertical Jump (VJ) and One Leg Hop Tests (OLHT) were used to assess jump performance. Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) with anterior, posteromedial and posterolateral reach distance was used to assess the dynamic balance. When all tests were performed, the subjects were asked under which test condition they felt more confident. Repeated measures of ANOVA was used to analyze the difference among three test conditions (bare, kinesiotaping, knee brace). Bonferroni post hoc test was used for pairwise comparison. Results: SEBT posteromedial (PM)and posterolateral (PL) reach distances were found significantly different among three test conditions(PM: F(2,38)=3.42,p=0.04), PL: F(2,38)=4.37,p=0.02). Kinesiotaping increased posteromedial reach distance (p=0.03). On the other hand, brace decreased posterolateral reach distance (p=0.04). VJ and OLHT performance were also found significantly different between three test conditions (VJ: F (2,38)=3.44,p=0.04, OLHT: (F(2,38)=4.04,p=0.02). Kinesio taping increased one leg hop distance (p=0.01). However, brace decreased VJ distance (p=0.04). Kinesiotaping had no effect on quadriceps and hamstring strength (p>0.05). Only brace increased the quadriceps strength at 180 °/s (p=0.02). 40% of the subjects felt more confident with knee brace; 25% of them were more confident with kinesiotaping and the rest (35%) of them were more confident with no brace and kinesiotaping. Conclusion: Kinesiotaping enhances balance and jump performance except for increasing knee strength in ACLR subjects at 6th months after surgery when they normally return to their sport. Although, knee brace increases quadriceps strength, it has adverse effect on functional performance . Therefore, Kinesiotaping can be applied for those patients when they start their sport specific training to enhance functional performance.
Functional Outcomes of Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction with Tibialis Anterior Allograft
Authors: Başar Selda , Büyükafşar Enes , Hazar Zeynep , Ataoğlu Baybars , Kanatlı Ulunay 
Published: December 2014

Objectives: Allografts have potential advantages in primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), including the absence of donor site morbidity, shorter operative times, improved cosmesis, and easier rehabilitation. There is limited and conflicting outcome data for ACLR with tibialis anterior allograft. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the functional outcomes of ACLR with tibialis anterior allograft. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated patients underwent ACLR using with tibialis anterior allograft between 2005 and 2013. Totally 12 patients who were performed suspensory fixation technique were included in this study (range: 25-43 years). Exclusion criteria included double bundle, bone tendon bone technique and revision surgery. Clinical outcomes were measured by subject part of International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Lysholm scores. Results: A significant increase was reported in all the clinical scores. In particular, the IKDC-subjective score increased from a basal value of 45.5±12.7 to 84.3±5.50 at the 12 months' evaluation (p<0.05). The Lysholm score revealed a significant improvement from 49.7±14.2 to 83.5±20.5 at the 12 months' evaluation (p<0.05). Conclusion: ACLR with tibialis anterior allograft is an effective treatment for correcting loss of function and increasing quality of life.