In recent years, the safety and efficacy of revision stapedectomy has come under scrutiny. Experienced surgeons report that the results of such surgery are often worse than the results after primary surgery and that the risks of sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo are increased. With the addition of laser technology to revision stapes surgery, the procedure to open the neomembrane over the oval window and gain access to the inner ear can now be performed safely. This allows positive identification of the oval window and assures placement of the prosthesis through the fenestra rather than on an intermediate segment of scar or bone in the region of the footplate. Our studies have shown the laser to be an important tool that enhances the safety and efficacy of revision stapedectomy.
This chapter summarizes the state of the art for axial involvement in psoriatic arthritis (axial PsA). The definition and measurement of axial PsA still remain problematic and this, in turn, could affect the best approach of recognition and treatment of this intriguing subset of the psoriatic disease. Axial PsA has been studied over the last few years looking at the difference in function and radiological findings compared mainly to Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), trying to differentiate it from a coincidental AS with psoriasis. Moreover, an assessment on a possible Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH) in PsA patients and clinical-radiological differences to axial PsA has been evaluated. The role of potential new imaging techniques, such as MRI, in the assessment of axial PsA has been considered in this chapter. The diagnosis and treatment of axial PsA has been reported by using the data obtained from the literature.
The role of the forensic laboratory in law enforcement is briefly discussed. Not only is it necessary to identify the major constituent of an exhibit, but in many cases valuable intelligence is gained by identifying whatever else is present. This includes other drugs, excipieuts, metals, etc. Therefore, identification of an extremely wide range of chemicals is required. The use of NMR and mass spectral data in the positive identification of such substances is invaluable. Specific examples of these data in identification are discussed.
Many Australian small molluscan taxa are often overlooked, falling by the wayside and therefore, and remaining relatively unknown to the wider collecting community. This paper redescribes and illustrates Retizafra intricata Hedley, 1912, a species that has not been illustrated within the literature for over a century. Many species are listed in databases, but they are often void of illustrative examples making positive identification problematic. Furthermore, this paper refines the syntypes and declares a lectotype to give greater taxonomic clarity. Within the discussion of this paper, the role of the citizen scientist is elucidated. Issues of how attitudinal change within some institutions can lead to the alienation of individuals, particularly those with life-long knowledge in their chosen field.
AbstractWhitehouse adapts insights from evolutionary anthropology to interpret extreme self-sacrifice through the concept of identity fusion. The model neglects the role of normative systems in shaping behaviors, especially in relation to violent extremism. In peaceful groups, increasing fusion will actually decrease extremism. Groups collectively appraise threats and opportunities, actively debate action options, and rarely choose violence toward self or others.
AbstractIntuitions guide decision-making, and looking to the evolutionary history of humans illuminates why some behavioral responses are more intuitive than others. Yet a place remains for cognitive processes to second-guess intuitive responses – that is, to be reflective – and individual differences abound in automatic, intuitive processing as well.
Abstract
Tomasello offers a compelling account of the emergence of humans’ sense of obligation. We suggest that more needs to be said about the role of affect in the creation of obligations. We also argue that positive emotions such as gratitude evolved to encourage individuals to fulfill cooperative obligations without the negative quality that Tomasello proposes is inherent in obligations.
The Role of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery for Thoraco-Lumbar Fractures in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis and Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH)
