Response of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells carrying PIK3CA mutations to selected targeted therapies.

Importance: The PIK3CA mutation is one of the most common mutations in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Through this research we attempt to elicit the role of oncogene dependence and effects of targeted therapy on this PIK3CA mutation.

Objectives: (1) To determine the role of oncogene dependence on PIK3CA-one of the more common and targetable oncogenes in HNSCC, and (2) to evaluate the consequence of this oncogene on the effectiveness of newly developed targeted therapies.

Otolaryngology and medical malpractice: A review of the past decade, 2001-2011.

Objectives/hypothesis: To better understand the causes and outcomes of lawsuits involving otolaryngologists in the past decade by analyzing malpractice litigation trends to prevent future litigation and improve physician education.

Study Design: Analysis of a national database for all US civil trials.

Methods: The Westlaw database was reviewed from 2001 to 2011.

RNA interference of transforming growth factor-β 2 in human respiratory fibroblasts.

Objective: Transforming growth factor-β2 (TGF-β2) is a principal cytokine of interest in the pathogenesis of scar formation and is a potential target for future molecular-based adjunctive therapies. The authors hypothesize that interfering RNA (RNAi) can be used to modulate TGF-β2 production in cultured human respiratory fibroblasts.

Study Design: Basic science.

Role of the otolaryngologist in the treatment of struma ovarii.

Struma ovarii, a rare germ cell tumor of the ovary composed of >50% thyroid tissue, is traditionally managed by gynecologic surgeons. Although struma ovarii is typically cured by simple excision, otolaryngology-head and neck surgeons may play a critical role in caring for these patients. In this article, we present two cases of struma ovarii and discuss the role of the otolaryngologist.

Efficacy of telavancin in the treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus osteomyelitis: studies with a rabbit model.

Objectives: Staphylococcus aureus is the most common pathogen isolated in osteomyelitis. This study evaluated the efficacies of telavancin (an investigational, rapidly bactericidal lipoglycopeptide with a multifunctional mechanism of action against Gram-positive bacteria), vancomycin and linezolid in a rabbit methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) osteomyelitis model.