bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new species of Crepidorhopalon (Linderniaceae) from the Mutinondo Wilderness, Zambia
Authors: Fischer Eberhard , Darbyshire Iain , Bingham Mike
Published: October 2014

The new species Crepidorhopalon mutinondoensis from Zambia is described and illustrated. It is closely related to Crepidorhopalon latibracteatus and C. parviflorus from which it differs in the glabrous calyx and bracts except for the minute hairs along the margins of each, and the smaller calyx and corolla. It differs from Crepidorhopalon symoensii in the entire bracts and the long peduncle. A key to the species of Crepidorhopalon with capitate inflorescence is provided.
Juncus fascinatus (Juncaceae), a new combination in Juncus sect. Ozophyllum and notes on morphologically similar species
Authors: Knapp Wesley Wesley
Published: October 2014

Please note the figure legend for Fig. 7 (page 253): FIGURE 7. Specimen of Juncus paludosus (A) with inserts showing mature capsule (B), leaf auricle (C) and leaf septa (D). Specimen photo R. Kral 96539B DOV, capsule and auricle A. Curtis 4940 DOV. Scale bar = 1 mm. Should read: FIGURE 7. Specimen of Juncus polycephalos (A) with inserts showing mature capsule (B), leaf auricle (C) and leaf septa (D). Specimen photo R. Kral 96539B DOV, capsule and auricle A. Curtis 4940 DOV. Scale bar = 1 mm.
A new name for Myrmecodesmus potosinus (Shear) 1973, a homonym of Myrmecodesmus potosinus (Chamberlin) 1943 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Pyrgodesmidae)
Authors: RECUERO ERNESTO
Published: October 2014

The genus Myrmecodesmus was created by Silvestri (1910) to accommodate a small, myrmecophilous polydesmid from central Veracruz. It includes mainly fossorial species and several forms have been collected in caves or associated with ant nests (Silvestri 1911; Shear 1977). Silvestri (1911) described a second species in this genus from the same locality. During subsequent decades several new genera were created as new pyrgodesmid species were described from Mexico, but Myrmecodesmus included only two species until Hoffman (1973) proposed a synonymy with Ilyma Chamberlin, 1941, increasing to seven the number of species referable to Myrmecodesmus. By this time the characters traditionally used to define genera in this family (mostly pore presence and distribution, presence of ozophores, number of segments and ornamentation) started to be questioned (Hoffman 1973; Shear 1973). Finally, a partial taxonomic revision of Pyrgodesmidae from Mexico (Shear 1977) drastically simplified the generic composition of this family and up to 11 genera were introduced into the synonymy of Myrmecodesmus. Including the new combinations, Shear (1977) listed a total of 25 species under this genus, but he missed including a few. This was partly corrected by Hoffman (1999), raising the number to 28 species. However, both authors missed an additional species that implies some nomenclatural issues.
A taxonomic revision of the soil-feeding termite genus Anhangatermes (Isoptera: Termitidae: Nasutitermitinae)
Authors: OLIVEIRA DANILO E. , CUNHA HÉLIDA F. , CONSTANTINO REGINALDO
Published: October 2014

The taxonomy of Anhangatermes Constantino 1990 is revised. Four new species are described: Anhangatermes anhanguera, sp. n., Anhangatermes eurycephalus, sp. n., Anhangatermes juruena, sp. n., and Anhangatermes pilosus, sp. n. The imago of Anhangatermes is described for the first time (A. pilosus). A key to the species of the genus based on soldiers and workers is provided. The diagnosis of the genus is updated to accommodate the new species. The geographic range of the genus is expanded to the Cerrado region of Central Brazil. The gizzard armature of the worker of Anhangatermes is described in detail for the first time.
A new species of Tomarus Erichson, 1847 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Dynastinae: Pentodontini), with a key to the species in Colombia
Authors: LÓPEZ-GARCÍA MARGARITA M. , GASCA-ÁLVAREZ HÉCTOR J. , AMAT-GARCÍA GERMÁN
Published: October 2014

A new Tomarus Erichson, 1847 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Dynastinae: Pentodontini) species is described from western Colombia. The new species is compared with Tomarus laevicollis (Bates, 1888) from Central America. An identification key is also provided to the species occurring in the country.
Forced and Internal Variability of Tropical Cyclone Track Density in the Western North Pacific*
Authors: Mei Wei , Xie Shang-Ping , Zhao Ming , Wang Yuqing
Published: October 2014

Forced interannual-to-decadal variability of annual tropical cyclone (TC) track density in the western North Pacific between 1979 and 2008 is studied using TC tracks from observations and simulations by a 25-km-resolution version of the GFDL High-Resolution Atmospheric Model (HiRAM) that is forced by observed sea surface temperatures (SSTs). Two modes dominate the decadal variability: a nearly basinwide mode, and a dipole mode between the subtropics and lower latitudes. The former mode links to variations in TC number and is forced by SST variations over the off-equatorial tropical central North Pacific, whereas the latter might be associated with the Atlantic multidecadal oscillation. The interannual variability is also controlled by two modes: a basinwide mode driven by SST anomalies of opposite signs located in the tropical central Pacific and eastern Indian Ocean, and a southeast–northwest dipole mode connected to the conventional eastern Pacific ENSO. The seasonal evolution of the ENSO effect on TC activity is further explored via a joint empirical orthogonal function analysis using TC track density of consecutive seasons, and the analysis reveals that two types of ENSO are at work. Internal variability in TC track density is then examined using ensemble simulations from both HiRAM and a regional atmospheric model. It exhibits prominent spatial and seasonal patterns, and it is particularly strong in the South China Sea and along the coast of East Asia. This makes an accurate prediction and projection of TC landfall extremely challenging in these regions. In contrast, basin-integrated metrics (e.g., total TC counts and TC days) are more predictable.
The Effects of Assimilating Conventional and ATOVS Data on Forecasted Near-Surface Wind with WRF-3DVAR
Authors: Zhang Feimin , Yang Yi , Wang Chenghai
Published: October 2014

In this paper, the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model with the three-dimensional variational data assimilation (WRF-3DVAR) system is used to investigate the impact on the near-surface wind forecast of assimilating both conventional data and Advanced Television Infrared Observation Satellite (TIROS) Operational Vertical Sounder (ATOVS) radiances compared with assimilating conventional data only. The results show that the quality of the initial field and the forecast performance of wind in the lower atmosphere are improved in both assimilation cases. Assimilation results capture the spatial distribution of the wind speed, and the observation data assimilation has a positive effect on near-surface wind forecasts. Although the impacts of assimilating ATOVS radiances on near-surface wind forecasts are limited, the fine structure of local weather systems illustrated by the WRF-3DVAR system suggests that assimilating ATOVS radiances has a positive effect on the near-surface wind forecast under conditions that ATOVS radiances in the initial condition are properly amplified. Assimilating conventional data is an effective approach for improving the forecast of the near-surface wind.
Representing Richardson Number Hysteresis in the NWP Boundary Layer
Authors: McTaggart-Cowan Ron , Zadra Ayrton
Published: October 2014

Turbulence in the planetary boundary layer (PBL) transports heat, momentum, and moisture in eddies that are not resolvable by current NWP systems. Numerical models typically parameterize this process using vertical diffusion operators whose coefficients depend on the intensity of the expected turbulence. The PBL scheme employed in this study uses a one-and-a-half-order closure based on a predictive equation for the turbulent kinetic energy (TKE). For a stably stratified fluid, the growth and decay of TKE is largely controlled by the dynamic stability of the flow as represented by the Richardson number. Although the existence of a critical Richardson number that uniquely separates turbulent and laminar regimes is predicted by linear theory and perturbation analysis, observational evidence and total energy arguments suggest that its value is highly uncertain. This can be explained in part by the apparent presence of turbulence regime-dependent critical values, a property known as Richardson number hysteresis. In this study, a parameterization of Richardson number hysteresis is proposed. The impact of including this effect is evaluated in systems of increasing complexity: a single-column model, a forecast case study, and a full assimilation cycle. It is shown that accounting for a hysteretic loop in the TKE equation improves guidance for a canonical freezing rain event by reducing the diffusive elimination of the warm nose aloft, thus improving the model’s representation of PBL profiles. Systematic enhancements in predictive skill further suggest that representing Richardson number hysteresis in PBL schemes using higher-order closures has the potential to yield important and physically relevant improvements in guidance quality.
Harvesting Human Hair Cells
Authors: Oghalai John S. , Nakagawa Takashi , Jenkins Herman A. , Jung Thomas M. , Eatock Ruth Anne , Holt Jeffrey R. , Coker Newton J. , Brownell William E.
Published: October 2014

The sensory hair cells of the inner ear are responsible for converting balance and hearing stimuli into electrical signals. Until recently, all previous studies of hair cell physiology had been performed on tissue obtained from non-mammals and rodents. In primates, hair cells are difficult to access, because they rest within the densest structure of the body, the otic capsule of the temporal bone. In this report, we describe a technique that we have used in physiological studies to harvest living human hair cells. We collected vestibular and cochlear tissue specimens from adult humans undergoing translabyrinthine and transotic surgical approaches for resection of lateral skull base tumors. Viable hair cells were identified and visualized with light microscopy. The ability to study normal hair cells from humans may further the study of normal and pathological human sensation, hair cell regeneration, and genetic causes of balance and hearing disorders.
Isolated Large Vestibular Aqueduct Syndrome in a Family
Authors: Nowak Kenneth C. , Messner Anna H.
Published: October 2014

This paper presents the second case in the literature of large vestibular aqueduct syndrome without associated cochlear anomalies in 2 members of the same family. The syndrome is frequently associated with sensorineural hearing loss presenting in childhood. The onset is commonly sudden, following an event causing increased intracranial pressure. On the basis of an emerging pattern of inheritance, we recommend screening siblings of an affected child. We also discuss the importance of characterizing the extent of disease of the inner ear.
Changes in Epidermal Growth Factor Receptors in Olfactory Epithelium Associated with Aging
Authors: Ohta Yasushi , Ichimura Keiichi
Published: October 2014

To clarify the mechanisms of age-related changes in the olfactory epithelium, we investigated age-related changes in epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFRs) in the epithelium. We examined 3 mice at each of the following stages: embryonal (embryonic days 14 and 16), neonatal (postnatal days 1 and 7), adult (postnatal weeks 5 and 12), and aged (postnatal years 1.5 to 2). The olfactory epithelium of each mouse was stained with sheep anti-human EGFR polyclonal IgG by an immunohistochemical method. The EGFRs were observed in all layers of the olfactory epithelium at the embryonal and neonatal stages. They were identified only in the basal layer of the olfactory epithelium at adult and aged stages, and the number of regions in which EGFRs were identified in the basal layer of the olfactory epithelium decreased in aged mice compared to adult mice. We believe that a decrease in EGFRs in the olfactory epithelium induces the inhibition of cell proliferation, with resultant atrophy of the olfactory epithelium.
Comparative Histology of the Maculae Flavae of the Vocal Folds
Authors: Sato Kiminori , Hirano Minoru , Nakashima Tadashi
Published: October 2014

A light and electron microscopic comparative investigation of the maculae flavae of the vocal folds was carried out on excised human and canine adult larynges. The structure and functions of human adult maculae flavae (HMF) were found to differ from those of canine adult maculae flavae (CMF). The maculae flavae were composed of fibroblasts, elastic and collagenous fibers, and ground substance in humans and canines. The density of fibroblasts in HMF was found to exceed that in CMF. Fibroblasts in HMF were stellate with processes or spindle-shaped, and the nucleus-cytoplasm (N/C) ratio was small. Rough endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus were well developed in the cytoplasm. Fibroblasts in CMF were oval, and the N/C ratio was large. Endoplasmic organs were poorly developed in the cytoplasm. Synthesized elastic and collagenous fibers were more numerous in HMF than CMF, and the density of both in HMF was much greater than that in CMF. Ground substance was more abundant in CMF than HMF. Apparently, CMF did not produce elastic and collagenous fibers in amounts sufficient to develop vocal ligaments. The HMF contributes to the formation of the vocal ligaments and the layered structure of human vocal folds.
Experimental Study following Inactive Implantation of an Auditory Brain Stem Implant in Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Manrique Manuel , Jauregui Isabel , Insausti Ana , Insausti Ricardo , Cervera-Paz Francisco J. , Perez Nicolás , Vanaclocha Vicente
Published: October 2014

We report changes in the cochlear nuclei (CNs) after 3 months of bilateral auditory deafferentation and simultaneous unilateral implantation of a dummy auditory brain stem implant (ABI) in 6 nonhuman primates ( Macaca fascicularis). These specimens were compared to CNs of 9 controls and 7 bilaterally deafferented animals without implantation. The ABI array consists of 3 platinum electrodes mounted on a silicone pad with the back side covered with Dacron. No migration of the ABI was observed. All deafferented animals showed astrocytic reorganization in the CNs. Histologic changes consisted of superficial reactions around the implant, with formation of fibrillar bundles of fusiform cells, and the presence of giant cells close to the Dacron. Other findings were related to surgical trauma. The dummy ABI did not itself provoke serious adverse reactions in the CNs. Our observations support the possibility of ABI reimplantation surgery.
Cineradiography of the Pharyngoesophageal Segment in Postlaryngectomy Patients
Authors: Van Weissenbruch Ranny , Kunnen Marc , Van Cauwenberge Paul B. , Albers Frans W. J. , Sulter Arend M.
Published: October 2014

The use of tracheoesophageal voice prostheses has gained wide acceptance in the field of vocal rehabilitation after total laryngectomy. In a randomized study with 3 arms, alaryngeal speech proficiency was assessed in 60 postlaryngectomy patients: 20 patients underwent primary unilateral pharyngeal myotomy, 21 patients underwent neurectomy of the pharyngeal plexus in addition to pharyngeal myotomy, and 19 patients did not undergo an additional surgical procedure. Pharyngoesophageal (PE) dynamics were examined during esophageal and tracheoesophageal speech. A single vibrating PE segment was seen in good alaryngeal speakers. Hypertonicity, spasm, strictures, and hypotonicity of the PE segment were correlated significantly with poor or moderate alaryngeal speech. Unilateral myotomy with or without unilateral neurectomy prevented hypertonicity or spasm of the PE segment. The acquisition of alaryngeal speech did not differ significantly between the 2 groups who had undergone an additional surgical procedure. Evaluation of anatomic and physiological factors may be helpful in subsequent clinical management to achieve effective alaryngeal speech.
Update on the use of Auricular Cartilage in Laryngotracheal Reconstruction
Authors: Silva Andrew B. , Lusk Rodney P. , Muntz Harlan R.
Published: October 2014

The pediatric otolaryngologist is often called upon to aid in the diagnosis and management of subglottic stenosis. This report contains an update of our experience using auricular cartilage in laryngotracheal reconstruction. a retrospective review of the medical records at St Louis Children's Hospital identified 43 children with subglottic stenosis. Thirty-one children were treated by use of auricular cartilage with a success rate of 84%, and an overall 94% success rate after revision surgery. Eight children in whom an anterior cricoid split initially failed were secondarily treated with auricular cartilage with a success rate of 75%. Two children initially treated with costochondral cartilage underwent multiple reconstructive procedures with either auricular cartilage or costochondral cartilage with an overall success rate of 50%. The remaining 2 children had long-segment tracheal stenosis and underwent repair with auricular cartilage with a 50% success rate. We find that auricular cartilage grafts are highly effective when used in a primary single-stage procedure in children with grade i or ii stenosis. We have had limited success with auricular cartilage in patients with grade iii stenosis and are reluctant to use it in grade iv stenosis, long-segment tracheal stenosis, staged reconstruction, or revision of an auricular or costal cartilage graft laryngotracheal reconstruction.
Arytenoid Adduction: Controlling Vertical Position
Authors: Woodson Gayle Ellen , Picerno Richard , Yeung Daniel , Hengesteg Arne
Published: October 2014

In flaccid laryngeal paralysis, the vocal process (VP) is displaced laterally and superiorly. The arytenoid adduction procedure (AA) moves the VP medially and caudally, closing the glottic gap. However, clinical evidence suggests that the VP is more caudal after AA than in physiological phonation. The neurally intact arytenoid is supported by tonic and phonatory activity of the posterior cricoarytenoid muscle (PCA). We hypothesize that a posterior anchoring suture could replace PCA support, achieving a more natural VP location. Cadaver larynges were scanned with computed tomography at rest and after AA, alone or in combination with a second arytenoid suture anchored to either the posterior midline cricoid (PC) or the inferior thyroid cornu (IC). Each posterior suture reduced caudal displacement of the VP during AA, but the glottic gap was wider with the PC suture. In 3 patients undergoing AA for laryngeal paralysis, the IC suture improved arytenoid posture and voice quality.
Patterns of Chromosomal Aberrations in Metastasizing and Nonmetastasizing Squamous Cell Carcinomas of the Oropharynx and Hypopharynx
Authors: Welkoborsky Hans-J. , Bernauer Hubert S. , Riazimand Hossein S. , Jacob Roland , Mann Wolf J. , Hinni Michael L.
Published: October 2014

Although several cytogenetic events of the tumor progression cascade have been identified in the past, the specific types of chromosomal alterations that lead to the development of lymph node metastases are still unknown. Operative specimens of 20 patients (10 patients with metastasizing tumors, 10 patients with nonmetastasizing tumors) with squamous cell carcinomas of the oropharynx and hypopharynx, along with the corresponding lymph node metastases, were investigated by quantitative DNA measurements and comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). Nonmetastasizing tumors (N0) displayed overrepresentations on chromosomes 10q (8 cases); 5p (7 cases); 3q and 20q (6 cases each); 8q (5 cases); 1p and 21q (4 cases each); 7p and 20p (3 cases each); and 2p, 15q, and 19q (2 cases each). Loss of chromosomal material was found on 5q, 9p, and 14q (2 cases each). Metastasizing tumors (N+) demonstrated overrepresentations on chromosomes 5p, 15q, and 22q (6 cases each); 3q and 11q13 (5 cases each); 20p and 21q (4 cases each); and 10q (3 cases). In 2 cases, an overrepresentation of the chromosomal arm 3q was accompanied by a loss of chromosomal arm 3p. Less frequent overrepresentations were observed on chromosomes 1q and 17q. Deletions were found on chromosomes 18q (3 cases), 3p, 4q, 5q, and 19p (2 cases each); and sporadic deletions occurred on 2q, 6q, 8p, 9p, 10p, 13q, 14q, 15q, and 16q. Whereas overrepresentations on chromosomes 1p and 7p occurred exclusively in N0 tumors, overrepresentations on chromosomes 1q, 11q, and 22q, along with deletions on 18q, were only observed in N+ tumors. Quantitative DNA measurements revealed a significantly higher percentage of aneuploid cells and a higher degree of DNA entropy in the N+ tumors. Chromosomal overrepresentations on chromosomes 1q, 8q, 11q, 18q, and 19q occurred more frequently in the metastases than in the corresponding primary tumors. Pairwise analysis of chromosomal alterations in the primary tumors and associated lymph node metastases revealed a genetic relationship, although a greater number of chromosomes on average were affected in the lymph node metastases. Quantitative DNA measurements demonstrated greater aneuploid values in the metastases. Recurring patterns of chromosomal alterations in N0 and N+ tumors were demonstrated in this study. In general, metastasizing tumors are characterized by overrepresentations on chromosomes 11q13 and 22q, and deletions on 18q. These aberrations suggest an elevation along the tumor progression cascade.
Laryngeal Adductory Pressure as a Measure of Post-Reinnervation Synkinesis
Authors: Paniello Randal C. , West Steven E.
Published: October 2014

Laryngeal adductory pressure (LAP) is the pressure induced as the vocal folds squeeze on a balloon while the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) is stimulated. The LAP has been shown to vary with the frequency of stimulation, with a characteristic slope. The RLN was divided and reanastomosed 4 different ways in 12 canine hemilaryngeal preparations; the 4 subgroups represented a range of expected post-reinnervation synkinesis recovery patterns. The LAP frequency-response curve was measured before surgery and at monthly intervals for 6 months after surgery. In the “best-case” group (RLN adductor and abductor trunks each divided and reanastomosed), the slope was found to return to normal. The 2 whole RLN division-reanastomosis groups (precise realignment or 180° rotation) both gave results similar to those of the “worst-case” group (RLN adductor and abductor trunks divided and transposed); these 3 subgroups were all significantly different from baseline. The slope of the LAP frequency-response curve may be a useful means of indirectly quantifying laryngeal synkinesis.
Assessment of Stapes Mobility by Use of a Newly Developed Piezoelectric Ceramic Device
Authors: Gyo Kiyofumi , Yumoto Eiji , Sato Hidemitsu , Yanagihara Naoaki
Published: October 2014

A piezoelectric device was developed for assessment of stapes mobility during middle ear surgery. The device comprises a pair of ceramic bimorph elements: one for activation of the stapes and the other to pick up the vibration as an electric output, which varies in accordance with the stapes mobility, ie, the inverse of the cochlear input impedance (Zsc). The device is compact and easily manipulated even in the narrow surgical field of the ear. However, the measuring range is restricted to between 1 and 10 kHz. Measurement of Zsc was conducted with this device in 5 ears of 5 dogs. The mean magnitude of Zsc increased with frequency in the range from 1 to 10 kHz: 0.95 megohm at 1 kHz and 8.8 megohms at 10 kHz. After fixation of the stapes with dental cement, the magnitude increased to more than 10 megohms, except at 1 kHz. The results suggest that the device is useful in detecting decreases in stapes mobility in patients with chronic otitis media.
Effect of Web 2170 BS, Platelet Activating Factor Receptor Inhibitor, in the Guinea PIG Model of Middle Ear Inflammation
Authors: Karasen R. Murat , Sutbeyaz Yavuz , Ozdemir Hasan , Aktan Bulent , Gundogdu Cemal
Published: October 2014

Platelet activating factor (PAF), a potent inflammatory mediator, is a biologically active phospholipid. Recent studies have shown that PAF may play an important role in the pathogenesis of otitis media (OM). WEB 2170 BS has been shown to be a PAF antagonist both in vitro and in vivo. In this study, the anti-inflammatory effects of WEB 2170 BS were investigated in a guinea pig model of OM induced by middle ear (ME) inoculation of killed Staphylococcus aureus. The outcome of treatment was determined by measurement of myeloperoxidase activity in the samples of ME mucosa, evaluation of temporal bone histopathology, and the presence of ME fluid. The myeloperoxidase activity in the WEB 2170 BS-treated group was found to be significantly lower than that in the control group. Histopathology of the temporal bones indicated decreased inflammation in the treated group as compared to the controls. In addition, ME fluid was absent in 16 of the 20 ears of the 10 treated animals. These results demonstrate that WEB 2170 BS can produce significant anti-inflammatory effects in this model of OM.
Secretory Differentiation of Serially Passaged Normal Human Nasal Epithelial Cells by Retinoic Acid: Expression of Mucin and Lysozyme
Authors: Yoon Joo-Heon , Kim Kyung-Su , Lee Jeung-Gweon , Kim Sung-Shik , Park In Yong
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this study was to subculture normal human nasal epithelial (NHNE) cells without compromising their ability to differentiate into secretory and ciliated cells and to study the effect of retinoic acid on mucous and serous secretions in passaged cells and to compare the expression of mucin and lysozyme in cultured cells with those in in vivo nasal epithelium. The subcultured cells were tested after every passage for secretory differentiation in air-liquid interface cultures. The cultured NHNE cells secreted mucin and lysozyme. The cells became squamous and mucin secretion decreased when retinoic acid was deleted from the culture media. Cells from passage 1 through passage 2 remained able to differentiate into mucous or squamous cells. Mucin gene 4 (MUC4), MUC5AC, MUC7, MUC8, and lysozyme messenger RNAs were expressed in passage 2 NHNE cells. In conclusion, passage 2 NHNE cell cultures retain features of normal epithelium and are suitable for many studies of upper airway cell biology.
Herpes Simplex Viral Laryngitis
Authors: Vrabec Jeffrey T. , Molina Claudia P. , West Brian
Published: October 2014

The true incidence of herpetic infections of the larynx is unknown. This entity may be underreported because of the difficulty in establishing the diagnosis. This report describes an immune-competent patient in whom extubation failed because of mass lesions of the posterior glottis. A biopsy specimen of the lesions revealed herpes simplex virus. We review the clinical presentation and histopathologic findings in this patient.
Surgical Management of Uncomplicated Otitis Media in a Pediatric Medicaid Population
Authors: Berman Stephen , Byrns Patricia J. , Bondy Jessica , Lezotte Dennis
Published: October 2014

The objective of this study was to document the frequency and timing of otitis media—related visits, audiological consultations, and surgical interventions following a new episode of otitis media. A retrospective descriptive study was performed on a Medicaid administrative database that follows individual patients over time. The study included 14,453 children enrolled in Medicaid during 1991 and 1992 who were 30 months of age or younger and had a “new” episode of otitis media. Among 14,321 patients with an uncomplicated episode of otitis media, there were 10,443 with additional otitis media visits. Audiological testing was performed in 1.134 (10.9%). The testing occurred within 2 months of the onset of otitis media in 52.2% of the children and within 3 months in 66.6%. Physicians referred 400 children (3.8%) to an otolaryngologist; 299 (75%) underwent 1 or more surgical procedures. These surgical interventions included placement of ventilating tubes in 296 children, adenoidectomy in 34 children (all of whom also had placement of ventilating tubes), mastoidectomy in 2 children, and tympanoplasty in 1 child. The proportion of children who underwent surgical placement of ventilating tubes who had prior audiological testing was 174 of 296 (58.8%). The overall surgical rate for ventilating tubes was 2.9%. Among children who underwent surgery, the procedure occurred within 2 months of the onset of otitis media in 21.4% of children. Attempts to rationalize the management of otitis media in early childhood must deal with the difficulties in distinguishing among the otitis media conditions. The findings of this study suggest a need to know whether insertions of ventilating tubes within 3 months after a new episode of otitis media are related to unresponsive or recurrent infections.
Combination of Angiogenesis Inhibitor TNP-470 with Cytotoxic Drugs in Experimental Therapy of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Qian Chao-Nan , Min Hua-Qing , Lin Han-Liang , Hong Ming-Huang
Published: October 2014

This study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of angiogenesis inhibitor 6- O-( N-chloroacetyl-carbamoyl)-fumagillol (TNP-470, AGM-1470) in the treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) alone and in combination with cytotoxic agents. Forty-two male BALB/c nude mice bearing human NPC cell line CNE-2 were randomized into 6 groups: those treated with saline solution, TNP-470, cisplatin (DDP), fluorouracil (5-FU), TNP-470 + DDP, and TNP-470 + 5-FU, respectively. In every treatment group, tumor growth was suppressed significantly. The combination of 5-FU with TNP-470 showed significant enhancement in antitumor efficacy. TNP-470 also enhanced the inhibitory effect of DDP, although not to statistical significance. All animals gained in body weight, although treatment with 5-FU caused slight, reversible diarrhea of 2 to 3 days' duration. The results showed that TNP-470 suppressed the growth of the human NPC cell line and enhanced the antitumor effect of 5-FU without increasing its toxicity. The combination of angiogenesis inhibitors with conventional cytotoxic agents is promising in the treatment of NPC.
Liposarcoma of the Tongue: Case Report and Literature Update
Authors: Nishizaki Kazunori , Yorizane Satoshi , Orita Yorihisa , Ogawara Toshiaki , Akagi Hirofumi , Yamadori Ichiro , Masuda Yu
Published: October 2014

Liposarcoma is an exceedingly rare tumor in the oral cavity. We report a case of a 70-year-old man with liposarcoma that presented as a lump on the tongue. The excised tumor was diagnosed as a well-differentiated lipoma-like liposarcoma. The majority of cases of well-differentiated liposarcoma follow a relatively benign course, but the disease has a high recurrence rate. It appears that accurate clinical and histopathologic diagnosis of this lesion is difficult. The prognosis seems to depend on the histologic type, size, and location of the lesion. Wide surgical excision is important for successful management of these liposarcomas.
Effect of 7-Nitroindazole upon Cochlear Dysfunction Induced by Transient Local Anoxia
Authors: Tabuchi Keiji , Takahashi Kazuhiko , Ito Zenya , Hara Akira , Wada Tetsuro , Kusakari Jun
Published: October 2014

The purpose of the present study was to further elucidate how nitric oxide (NO) is involved in cochlear anoxia-reperfusion injury. Transient local anoxia of the cochlea was induced in albino guinea pigs for 15, 30, or 60 minutes by transiently compressing the labyrinthine artery through a skull base approach. 7-Nitroindazole (7NI), a relatively selective neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) inhibitor, was intraperitoneally administered to the guinea pigs 30 minutes before the onset of local anoxia. The compound action potential (CAP) thresholds were measured before the administration of 7NI and 4 hours after the onset of reperfusion. A statistically significant reduction in the postanoxic CAP threshold shift from the preadministration value was observed in the 7NI-administered animals as compared with the control animals after 15- and 30-minute periods of anoxia. These results confirm the involvement of NO and nNOS in the cochlear injury induced by transient local anoxia.
Use of a Coincidence Gamma Camera to Detect Primary Tumor with 18Fluoro-2-Deoxy-Glucose in Cervical Lymph Node Metastases from an Unknown Origin
Authors: Périé Sophie , Talbot Jean-Noël , Kerrou Khaldoun , Monceaux Guy , Montravers Françoise , Grahek Dany , Guily Jean Lacau St
Published: October 2014

This study was performed to evaluate the ability of a dual-head gamma camera with 18fluoro-2-deoxy-glucose coincidence detection emission tomography (FDG-CDET) to detect primary tumors in patients with cervical lymph node metastases of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma from an unknown origin. From 60 patients with untreated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, we selected 4 in whom no evidence of the primary's origin was found by the conventional methods used for the evaluation of head and neck tumors. In addition to the panendoscopy, chest radiography, a computed tomography (CT) scan, and FDG-CDET were performed. Both FDG-CDET and the CT scan located cervical lymph node metastases. In addition, FDG-CDET located the primary tumor in 3 of the 4 patients, and the tumors were confirmed with histopathologic findings. In contrast, the CT scan detected the primary tumor in none of them. FDG tomography performed on a coincidence gamma camera appears to be a successful new tool in detecting occult primary tumors in head and neck carcinoma, and is useful in guiding endoscopic biopsies. It has, further, the important potential ability to detect distant metastases on whole body images.
Critical Evaluation of Neurolaryngological Disorders
Authors: Yin Shengguang , Stucker Fred J. , Qiu William W. , Batchelor Barbara M.
Published: October 2014

Otolaryngological examinations, videostroboscopic image analysis, and laryngeal electromyography were used as a test battery for a critical evaluation in 80 patients. Vocal fold movements were categorized into mobility, restricted mobility, immobility with different positions, and overactive movement. Laryngeal electromyographic examinations were conducted in all patients, and the results were classified into normal, neuropathic, and myopathic patterns. The electromyographic data were integrated with videostroboscopic findings, interpreted with knowledge of biomechanical and electrophysiological mechanisms of the larynx, and correlated clinically with underlying diseases. It is suggested that neurolaryngological procedures are most clinically useful when dictated by a decision-making algorithm.
Treatment of Nasal Polyposis in Byzantine Times
Authors: Lascaratos John G. , Segas John V. , Assimakopoulos Dimitrios A.
Published: October 2014

The goal of this study was to describe the therapeutic methods and surgical techniques used during Byzantine times (ad 3241453) for a disease that has occupied physicians since antiquity:nasal polyps. The original Greek-language texts of the Byzantine medical writers, most of which were published after the 17th century, were studied in order to identify the early knowledge of the definition, symptoms, conservative treatments, and surgical intervention in cases of this disease. A considerable number of conservative treatments, etiologic and local (with inunctions or blowing of caustic substances), with evident influence from Roman medicine, were identified even in the early Byzantine medical texts (4th century). Further, some surgical techniques were described that seem to constitute evolution of the Hippocratic tradition. From the study of the original texts of Byzantine medical writers, their interest in the rhinological diseases is evident; in the case of nasal polyps, new techniques were mentioned. The first meticulous intranasal surgical removal of polyps was described. These techniques, obviously developed during the Hellenistic period, initially influenced European medicine and later the rest of the world.
Diagnosis and Determination of the Clinical Significance of Type 1A Laryngeal Clefts by Gelfoam Injection
Authors: Kennedy Cynthia A. , Heimbach Maureen , Rimell Frank L.
Published: October 2014

Laryngeal clefts are rare congenital disorders, classified by multiple different schemes. Type IA (Armitage) and type I (Benjamin and Inglis) laryngeal clefts exhibit absence or hypoplasia of the interarytenoid muscles with an intact cricoid ring. Submucous or “occult” clefts occur with intact mucosa but absent underlying cartilage and/or muscle. Children with a diagnosis of posterior laryngeal cleft often have other congenital anomalies or medical disorders, including gastroesophageal reflux, tracheomalacia, syndrome complexes, and developmental delay. These associated disorders often confuse the diagnostic picture, as they may contribute to or account for the presenting symptoms of a laryngeal cleft. We propose a method to help clarify the clinical significance of the laryngeal clefts in these patients, and determine which patients would benefit from cleft repair. Eight patients with type IA laryngeal clefts are presented who were treated with a “test dose” Gelfoam injection into the interarytenoid area at the time of endoscopic diagnosis. All patients exhibited clinical improvement, and 4 patients showed improvement on the postinjection videofluoroscopic swallow study as compared to preoperative studies. One patient has gone on to surgical repair of the cleft after multiple injections. Endoscopic Gelfoam injection at the time of diagnosis can both alleviate symptoms and provide clarification of the posterior laryngeal cleft's contribution to the clinical status of the patient in these often complex cases.
Laryngopharyngeal Sensory Deficits in Patients with Laryngopharyngeal Reflux and Dysphagia
Authors: Aviv Jonathan E. , Liu Hau , Kaplan Sarah T. , Parides Michael , Close Lanny G.
Published: October 2014

There are no reliable means of quantifying the edema that results from acid exposure to the posterior larynx in patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). However, it is possible to quantify laryngopharyngeal sensitivity in these patients by endoscopic administration of air pulses to the laryngeal mucosa in order to elicit the laryngeal adductor reflex. The purpose of this study was to determine whether patients with LPR have sensory deficits in the laryngopharynx, and whether treatment of these patients with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) results in resolution of sensory deficits. Flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing with sensory testing was prospectively performed in 54 patients with dysphagia without neurologic disease and in 25 healthy controls. The laryngopharyngeal sensory level, posterior laryngeal edema, and LPR were assessed. We defined LPR as passage of food material from the esophageal inlet retrograde into the hypopharynx. Patients with LPR were placed on 3 months of omeprazole or lansoprazole and then retested. Patients without LPR were placed on H2 blockers for 3 months and then retested. In the dysphagia group, 48 of 54 patients (89%) had edema of the posterior larynx, and 42 of 54 (78%) had laryngopharyngeal sensory deficits. We noted LPR in 38 of 54 (70%). In the control group, 1 of 25 subjects (4%) had edema, sensory deficits, and LPR. The differences in incidence of edema, sensory deficits, and LPR between the dysphagia group and the control group were significant (p < .001, χ2 test). Twenty-three patients with LPR placed on a PPI returned for follow-up, with improvement in laryngeal edema in 14 of the 21 (67%) who had pretreatment edema and resolution of sensory deficits in 15 of the 19 (79%) who had pretreatment deficits. In the non-LPR, non-PPI group, 11 of 16 patients returned for follow-up, with improvement in laryngeal edema in none of the 11 and improvement in sensory deficits in 1 of the 11 (9.1%). The differences in improvement in laryngeal edema and sensory deficits between the LPR, PPI group, and the non-LPR, non-PPI group were significant (p < .01, Fisher's exact test). We conclude that patients with dysphagia and edema of the posterior larynx as a result of LPR have sensory deficits in the laryngopharynx. Treatment of these patients with a PPI appears to result in resolution of laryngopharyngeal edema and improvement of sensory deficits, both subjectively and objectively.
Foreign Body in the Trachea
Authors: Zeitlin Jill , Myer Charles M.
Published: October 2014

Tracheal foreign bodies in pediatric patients may result in significant morbidity and mortality. We present the case of a 6-year-old child who required a tracheotomy to secure her airway and remove the foreign body.
Mastoid Pneumatization of the Patulous Eustachian Tube
Authors: Tsuji Tomihiko , Yamaguchi Nobumasa , Mitani Yukie , Aoki Kazuhiro , Moriyama Hiroshi
Published: October 2014

The pathophysiology of the patulous eustachian tube (PET) remains unclear. The degree of mastoid cell pneumatization is considered an indicator of chronic inflammation of the middle ear. We used the mastoid cell area to investigate the relationship between past chronic inflammation of the middle ear cavity and a PET in 84 patients (20 to 83 years old). The mastoid cell size was calculated from radiographs and analyzed relative to the history of otitis media (OM). The controls were 100 normal ears. The patients' mastoid cell size was significantly suppressed versus that of the controls, in both 31 PET cases with and 53 PET cases without past OM. We surmise the possibility that the PET ears had experienced inflammation even when the patients had no history of OM and the tympanic membrane showed no OM sequelae. This study indicates the existence of some relationship between a history of chronic inflammation of the middle ear cavity and a PET.
Age-Related Development of the Arrangement of Connective Tissue Fibers in the Lamina Propria of the Human Vocal Fold
Authors: Ishii Kosuke , Akita Masumi , Yamashita Kotaro , Hirose Hajime
Published: October 2014

A scanning electron microscopic study was made on the morphological changes occurring with age in collagen and elastic fibers in the lamina propria of the human vocal fold. We obtained the specimens from 32 autopsy cases ranging from 20 gestational weeks to 22 postnatal years and submitted them to digestion treatments with 10% sodium hydroxide and 90% formic acid. The vocal folds in fetuses and neonates consisted of sparse and dense areas of collagen and elastic fibers, and the vocal ligament was not found. In subjects 5 years of age, a deep dense area was found in the anterior and posterior maculae flavae, and longitudinal fibers were noted between the maculae. A structure of superficial versus deep layers appeared in children older than 10 years of age. The layered structure of the lamina propria was complete around 17 years of age. The development of the layered structure and the maturity of the fibers appeared to reflect the complexity of phonatory function during adolescence.
Human Papillomavirus and Risk of Laryngeal Cancer
Authors: Smith Elaine M. , Summersgill Kurt F. , McCulloch Timothy , Allen Jeffrey , Turek Lubomir P. , Hoffman Henry T. , Haugen Thomas H.
Published: October 2014

We determined the relationship between human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and the HPV types detected in 44 patients with squamous cell carcinoma, 10 laryngeal leukoplakia patients, and 12 patients evaluated for benign laryngeal conditions (controls). The sources of HPV DNA were from brushings from the upper respiratory tract and lesion (benign or malignant), oral rinses, and biopsies of patient lesions. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing were used to identify and type HPV. We detected HPV in 25.0% (11/44) of patients with laryngeal cancer, in 30.0% (3/10) of patients with laryngeal leukoplakia, and in 16.7% (2/12) of noncancer controls. Patients with cancer were not more likely to be identified with oncogenic HPV types (18.2%) than either the leukoplakia group (20%) or the control group (16.7%). An increased risk of disease was associated with current tobacco use and former alcohol drinking in cancer patients versus controls and in leukoplakia patients versus controls (all p < .05). After we controlled for tobacco and alcohol effects on the risk of disease, exposure to oncogenic HPV types was associated with an increased risk of laryngeal cancer (odds ratio = 3.0) and of laryngeal leukoplakia (odds ratio = 6.0) compared to controls, although the results were not statistically significant. This study suggests that although HPV infection and HPV oncogenic types are not found at a higher frequency in laryngeal cancer or laryngeal leukoplakia as compared to controls, infection is associated with an increased risk of disease after controlling for the effects of alcohol and tobacco use.
Proto-Oncogene Raf-1 as an Autoantigen in Meniere's Disease
Authors: Cheng Kuang-Chuan , Matsuoka Hiroshi , Lee Kyung Mi , Kwon Soon Seog , Kim Nacksung , Mora Massimilliano , Krug Marc S. , Yoo T. J.
Published: October 2014

The 28 kd protein extracted from the guinea pig inner ear membranous fraction, which reacted with sera from patients with Meniere's disease, has been subjected to microsequencing. Nineteen amino acids were obtained (IVQQFGFQRRASDDGKLTQ). A protein data bank search showed that this sequence corresponded to residues 41 to 60 of human Raf-1 protein. Sera from 16 of 27 patients with Meniere's disease showed reactivity to the recombinant purified glutathione-S-transferase–Raf-1 protein. These results support the hypothesis that a subgroup of patients who suffer from Meniere's disease, as well as some other kinds of autoimmune inner ear diseases, have an autoantibody against Raf-1 protein.
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery in Children and Adults
Authors: Jiang Rong-San , Hsu Chen-Yi
Published: October 2014

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) has become a popular procedure for the treatment of adults with chronic sinusitis. Recently, it has also been applied in the pediatric population. It has been used to treat chronic sinusitis in our department since April 1988. As of March 1998, 1,112 patients were available for analysis by file and questionnaire review. Of the 1,112 patients, 104 patients (9.4%) who were 16 years of age or younger at the time they first underwent FESS in our department were included in the pediatric endoscopic sinus surgery (PESS) group. The other 1,008 patients (90.6%) were included in the ordinary FESS group. In total, 121 PESS and 1,106 (adult) FESS operations were performed on these patients. Operative complications occurred in 5 PESS operations (4.1%) and 116 FESS operations (10.5%). The postoperative improvement rate was 84% in PESS and 77.1% in FESS. We conclude that PESS can be applied to treat chronic sinusitis effectively in the pediatric population and with less morbidity than FESS.