bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flower Preferences of the Wrocław Botanical Garden Bumblebees (Bombus spp.)
Authors: Sikora Aneta , Kelm Maria
Published: January 2014

Bumblebees (Bombus spp.) are morphologically different from each other as determined by the length of their tongue. Seven species of bumblebees were identified in the Wrocław Botanical Garden: the long-tongued Bombus hortorum, and the medium-tongued B. pascuorum, and the 5 short-tongued species, Bombus hypnorum, Bombus lapidarius, Bombus terrestris, Bombus lucorum, and Bombus pratorum. Bumblebees were observed so that their choice of food within the botanical family could be determined. The shape and colour choice of the flower was particularly noted. Bumblebees showed the highest degree of preference for the Lamiaceae family. The Boraginaceae family was also used by all of the recorded species. Bumblebees found pink and purple, lipped, capitular/ globular, and saucer-shaped flowers to be most attractive. The individual species of bumblebees showed different preferences, which may be explained by the differences in their morphology. However, bumblebee flower preference and selection seems to be more complex and requires further, detailed research.
Nectar of Ziziphus spina-christi (L.) Willd (Rhamnaceae): Dynamics of Secretion and Potential for Honey Production
Authors: Nuru Adgaba , Awad Awad M. , Al-Ghamdi Ahmad A. , Alqarni Abdulaziz S. , Radloff Sarah E.
Published: January 2014

The nectar secretion of Ziziphus flowers was studied by removing and measuring the nectar every four hours, for two consecutive days, from 88 flowers of four trees (‘repeated sampling’). In another 120 flowers from the same trees, the accumulated sugar was measured at the end of the flowering stage. The mass of the nectar sugar was determined following the washing technique. The total amount of sugar per tree was calculated by multiplying the number of flowers per tree by the average mass of nectar sugar secreted per flower. The average mass of sugar produced per flower in repeated sampling was 0.79±0.54 mg/flower (range 0.09 - 2.48 mg). The average mass of sugar per flower for each of the four investigated trees was 1.43±0.53 mg, 0.72±0.27 mg, 0.94±0.39 mg and 0.37±0.26 mg, respectively. The differences among trees was statistically significant. For accumulated nectar, the overall average mass of sugar per flower was 0.55±0.23 mg (range 0.06 - 1.29 mg) and the average values for flowers on the investigated trees of Z. spina-christi were 0.69±0.26 mg, 0.41±0.16 mg, 0.51±0.16 mg and 0.53±0.21 mg; these variations were statistically significant. The average mass of nectar sugar calculated for the flowers with accumulated nectar sampling was significantly lower than the average mass of sugar recorded for repeated nectar sugar samplings (0.79±0.54 mg). According to this study, one Ziziphus tree is estimated to produce 3.6 kg of honey (range 2.2 - 5.2 kg), equivalent to about 900 kg of honey/ha (range 550 - 1300 kg). These figures indicate the high potential value of the plant for honey production. Nectar secretion was positively correlated with temperature, indicating the adaptation of the tree to hot climates.
Effect of Initial Strength of Honey Bee Colonies (Apis mellifera) Supered in Different Ways on Maximizing Honey Production in Nepal
Authors: Neupane Khem Raj , Woyke Jerzy , Wilde Jerzy
Published: January 2014

A study was carried out to investigate the effect of the original strengths of honey bee colonies supered in different ways, on the production of honey by Apis mellifera bees in the Terai region of Nepal. Bee colonies of three different original strengths, in which the bees covered 5, 10 and 20 combs, were supered in three different methods. The results showed that honey production was highly correlated to the number of worker brood cells in the colonies (r = 0.96, p = 0.003). Colonies of 5 comb initial strength (CIS), as farmers’ practices in Nepal, produced the lowest amount of honey (30.1 kg per annum). Bees in colonies of 10 CIS with a deep super, produced twice as much honey (62.2 kg), and colonies of 20 CIS with deep supers produced even significantly more honey (74.5 kg). However, the relationship between the financial values of the produced honey to the cost of its production was the highest - 1.52 : 1 for colonies of 10 CIS with a deep super. Therefore, this bee colony management is recommended to the beekeepers in the Terai region and lower hills of Nepal. This fi nding has global application.
Use of Honeybees as Bio-Indicators of Environmental Pollution in the Kurdistan Province of Iran
Authors: Sadeghi Amin , Mozafari Ali-Akbar , Bahmani Reza , Shokri Kamran
Published: January 2014

The aim of this study was to determine the levels of these elements: Hg, Ba, Ca, Fe, Mn, Li, As, Na and K in the bodies of bees. Honeybee samples were randomly collected from apiaries located in four counties of the province of Kurdistan. The four counties were: Marivan, Bijar, Kamyaran and Ghorveh. The data obtained from this study showed that K had the highest concentration, followed by Na, Ca, Hg, Ba, Fe, Mn, Li and As. From among all the sites, there were no significant differences recorded between the concentrations of the different metals. The results did show that three minerals groups were able to be differentiated: elements that were very abundant, elements in a medium concentration, and trace elements. The first group consisted of K and Na, with a range from 41.857 to 47.871, and 12.653 to 16.183 ppm, respectively. The second mineral group was composed of Ca, Hg, Ba, and Fe, where Ca was the most abundant element (with a range of 9.077 to 10.058 ppm), followed by Hg (1.12-4.786 ppm), Ba (2.881-3.481 ppm), and Fe (1.050-1.727 ppm). The third mineral group was composed of Mn, Li and As. They ranged from 0.262 to -0.399, and from 0.043 to 0.101, and from 0.017 to 0.068 ppm, respectively.
Spatial Diversification of Bee (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Apiformes) Assemblages in Forest Communities of the Suchedniów-Oblęgorek Landscape Park
Authors: Bąk-Badowska Jolanta
Published: January 2014

The aim of the study, carried out from April to October in 2004 and 2005, was to characterise bee (Apiformes) assemblages in the phytosociologically diversified forest communities of the Suchedniów-Oblęgorek Landscape Park. Moericke colour traps were used to capture the bees. The five study sites yielded 76 bee species. There was a predominance of representatives from the families Apidae (28 species, 900 individuals) and Andrenidae (20 species, 222 individuals). The indices of species diversity (H’) and evenness (J’) reached their highest values in a mixed coniferous forest (BM) site, and reached their lowest values in a fi r forest (BJ) site. Qualitative and quantitative similarity of assemblage structure was highest in assemblages in mixed coniferous forest, mesic coniferous forest, and oak-hornbeam forest habitats, decreasing in floristically poor habitats not favourable to nesting, i.e. fi r forest and riparian forest. Traps placed on the forest floor in ground cover contained more individuals and species of bees, with 1192 individuals (88.8%) and 76 species, than in the canopy layer, with 150 individuals (11.2%) and 23 species. This trend was consistent across all the habitats in the Landscape Park.
The Effect of Amphotericin B on the Lifespan, Body-surface Protein Concentrations, and DNA Methylation Levels of Honey Bees (Apis mellifera)
Authors: Strachecka Aneta , Borsuk Grzegorz , Olszewski Krzysztof , Paleolog Jerzy , Gagoś Mariusz , Chobotow Jacek , Nawrocka Agnieszka , Gryzińska Magdalena , Bajda Milena
Published: January 2014

Three groups of caged bees were fed with sugar syrup (the control), sugar syrup supplemented with amphotericin B (AmB) in a dose of 0.5 mg/ml, and sugar syrup with AmB in a dose of 0.25 mg/ ml. Amphotericin B shortened the life span of the bees and reduced the level of global DNA methylation compared to the control, however, it increased the body-surface protein concentrations. In the hindguts of the bees, there were found AmB deposits. Honeybees appear to be a useful model for studying the side effects of anti-fungal AmB therapy. Among other things, epigenetic changes and senescence acceleration are considered to be the side effects of the therapy.
Oxidative Stress and Nasal Polyposis: Does it Affect the Severity of the Disease?
Authors: Topal Ozgul , Kulaksızoglu Sevsen , Erbek Selim S.
Published: January 2014

Background

Nasal polyposis (NP) is a chronic inflammatory disease and the waste products of this inflammation are reactive oxygen species composed of free radicals. Changes in oxidative status have already been revealed in NP. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of oxidative status to the severity of the disease and the quality of life.

Methods

The study group included 24 patients with NP and 20 controls. The Turkish version of the Rhinosinusitis Disability Index, visual analog scale (VAS), polyp stage, computed tomography (CT) score, and the eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP) levels in nasal lavage (NAL) fluid were used to assess the severity of the disease. Malondialdehyde, nitric oxide (NO), and the total antioxidant status (TAS) levels in NAL fluids were measured representing the oxidative stress.

Results

NO values were correlated with nasal congestion (p = 0.031). TAS values were correlated with nasal obstruction (p = 0.039). ECP values showed correlation with all the nasal obstruction (p = 0.003), congestion (p = 0.009), rhinorrhea (p = 0.009), and VAS scores (p = 0.039).

Conclusion

In NP, ECP levels detected in NAL fluid were significantly high and were correlated with the severity of the disease. Moreover, the severity of oxidative stress, in the forms of TAS and NO, is significantly correlated with the severity of the nasal obstruction and congestion, respectively.
Schwannomas of the Sinonasal Tract and Anterior Skull Base: A Systematic Review of 94 Cases
Authors: Sunaryo Peter L. , Svider Peter F. , Husain Qasim , Choudhry Osamah J. , Eloy Jean Anderson , Liu James K.
Published: January 2014

Background

Schwannomas of the anterior skull base (ASB) and sinonasal tract are extremely rare. These lesions mimic other pathologies such as olfactory groove meningiomas, hemangiopericytomas, and esthesioneuroblastomas. Because of their low incidence, ASB and sinonasal tract schwannomas have not been well characterized. A systematic review of ASB and sinonasal tract schwannomas was conducted to further elucidate the presentation and surgical management of these lesions.

Methods

A MEDLINE/PubMed search was performed, identifying 71 articles representing 94 cases of ASB and sinonasal schwannomas. Each case was analyzed for demographics, clinical presentation, anatomic location, radiographic features, and surgical treatment.

Results

In 94 patients with ASB and sinonasal schwannomas, 44 (46.8%) were exclusively sinonasal, 30 cases (31.9%) were exclusively intracranial, 12 (12.8%) were primarily intracranial with extension into the paranasal sinuses, and 8 (8.5%) were primarily sinonasal with intracranial extension. Headaches and nasal obstruction were the most common presenting symptoms occurring in 30.9 and 29.8% of cases, respectively. Magnetic resonance imaging typically showed a hyperintense mass on T2-weighted imaging (70%) and hypointense (41%) on T1-weighted imaging. Most patients underwent surgical gross total resection via craniotomy, endoscopic endonasal approach, rhinotomy, or other sinonasal approaches. Recurrence occurred in three cases ranging from 4 months to 13 years. Postoperative complications included cerebral spinal fluid leakage, bacterial meningitis, epidural hematoma, and pneumocranium.

Conclusion

ASB and sinonasal schwannomas are rare lesions and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of ASB masses involving the cribriform plate with sinonasal extension. Gross total resection of these lesions should be considered the goal of operative management.
Topical Anti-Infective Sinonasal Irrigations: Update and Literature Review
Authors: Lee Jivianne T. , Chiu Alexander G.
Published: January 2014

Background

Sinonasal anti-infective irrigations have emerged as a promising therapeutic modality in the comprehensive management of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), particularly in the context of recalcitrant disease. The purpose of this article was to delineate the current spectrum of topical anti-infective therapies available and evaluate their role in the treatment of CRS.

Methods

A systematic literature review was performed on all studies investigating the use of topical antimicrobial solutions in the medical therapy of CRS. Anti-infective irrigations were stratified into topical antibacterial, antifungal, and additive preparations according to their composition and respective microbicidal properties.

Results

The use of topical antibiotic irrigations has been supported by low-level studies in the treatment of refractory CRS, with optimal results achieved in patients who have undergone prior functional endoscopic sinus surgery and received culture-directed therapy. Multiple evidence-based reviews have not established any clinical benefit with the administration of topical antifungals, and their use is not currently recommended in the management of routine CRS. Topical additives including surfactants may be beneficial as adjunctive treatment for recalcitrant CRS, but additional research is needed to investigate their efficacy in comparison with other agents and establish safety profiles.

Conclusion

Topical anti-infective solutions are not recommended as first-line therapy for routine CRS but may be considered as a potential option for patients with refractory CRS who have failed traditional medical and surgical intervention. Additional research is necessary to determine which patient populations would derive the most benefit from each respective irrigation regimen and identify potential toxicities associated with prolonged use.
Life-Threatening Angioedema Induced by Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors: Characteristics and Risk Factors
Authors: Stauber Tali , Confino-Cohen Ronit , Goldberg Arnon
Published: January 2014

Background

Angioedema induced by angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) is a well-known phenomenon and roughly accounts for one-third of angioedema cases presenting to the emergency departments. This study aimed to characterize the patients with severe reactions that required hospitalization and tried to identify the risk factors for these life-threatening events.

Methods

The records of all patients hospitalized with the diagnosis of “angioedema” over a 10-year period were retrospectively analyzed. Patients’ characteristics as well as the characteristics of the angioedema-induced hospitalizations were studied.

Results

In 46 of 165 patients (28%) the angioedema was ACEI induced. The severity of the event was mild in 12 patients (26%), moderate in 25 patients (54%), and severe in 9 patients (19%). Twelve patients (26%) were admitted to the intensive care unit and six patients (13%) underwent intubation. Epinephrine was administered to 13 patients (29%), steroids were administered to 40 patients (87%), and anti-histamines were administered to 36 patients (78%). One patient died as a consequence of the event (2%). Twenty patients (45%), including the deceased patient, had recurrent events of angioedema before admission. Obese patients had significantly more recurrent events compared with nonobese patients (p = 0.03). There was also a tendency for more severe events in the obese patients (p = 0.079). Diabetes was significantly associated with moderate severe events (p = 0.009) whereas treatment with beta-blockers or diuretics was significantly associated with milder events (p = 0.007 and p = 0.044, respectively).

Conclusion

The high recurrence rate of ACEI-induced angioedema preceding subsequent life-threatening events suggests under diagnosis of this potentially fatal adverse reaction. Diabetes and probably obesity are risk factors for more severe events. Physicians following patients receiving ACEI should be more aware of possible shortcomings associated with these medications.
Spreader Flaps Do Not Change Early Functional Outcomes in Reduction Rhinoplasty: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Saedi Babak , Amaly Amin , Gharavis Venus , Yekta Batool Ghorbani , Most Sam P.
Published: January 2014

Background

Internal nasal valve collapse is a preventable complication of rhinoplasty, for which the spreader graft is the gold standard. More recently, the spreader flap technique has been espoused as an alternative to spreader grafting. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of this technique in a randomized trial setting.

Methods

The autospreader was used in 32 patients who were candidates for primary rhinoplasty; 34 who did not undergo a spreader flap procedure were recruited as a control group. Acoustic rhinometry was used in every patient preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively. Average volume and minimal cross-sectional area (MCA) of the nose and findings were collected. Also, the pre- and postoperative patients’ subjective assessment about their satisfaction from their appearance and nasal obstruction were evaluated according to visual analog scale (VAS).

Results

Among the study group patients, 46 (69.7%) were female and 20 (30.3%) were male subjects. Their mean age was 50/5 ± 6/24 years. The difference in MCA in the control group was-0.1 and +0.6 (on right and left sides, respectively), and in the spreader flap group it was-0.03 and +0.05, which showed an increase in MCA in the left side and a decrease in the opposite side of both groups. However, their difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.50). Also, the differences between preoperative and postoperative VAS were not significant in either nasal obstruction (p = 0.68) and cosmetic satisfaction (p = 0.38).

Conclusion

Spreader flap is an attractive technique in preserving the middle vault in nasal plastic surgery. However, its effect needs more evaluation.
Smell and Taste in Patients with Vascular Malformation of the Extracranial Head and Neck Region
Authors: Steinbach Silke , Fasunla Ayotunde J. , Lahme Carolin M. E. , Schäfers Sophia P. , Hundt Walter , Wolf Petra , Mandic Robert , Werner Jochen A. , Eivazi Behfar
Published: January 2014

Background

Olfactory and gustatory functions have not been investigated in patients with vascular malformation of the extracranial head and neck region with validated smell and taste tests. Although olfactory and gustatory deficiencies are often not outwardly apparent, they substantially affect daily life.

Methods

Smell and taste tests using sniffin sticks and taste strips were administered in 40 patients.

Results

For all age groups and both sexes, odor threshold (THR) values were, on average, lower in patients than in healthy individuals; whereas, values of odor identification and discrimination were not significantly lower. Regarding odor THR, 33 (82.5%) patients were hyposmic. Taste values (sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and total taste) were, on average, lower in patients than in healthy individuals; 21 (52.5%) patients were hypogeusic. Disease duration did not correlate with smell and taste test values. Patients with and without tongue involvement had decreased odor threshold and taste values. No significant differences were identified when taste values on the left and right sides of the tongue were compared in patients without tongue involvement and with unilateral and bilateral tongue involvement. Patients with venous malformations had lower smell test values, and patients with lymphatic malformations had lower taste test values than patients with other malformations.

Conclusion

Patients exhibit significantly reduced olfactory and gustatory function even when the nose and/or tongue are not malformed. Patients should be tested with validated smell and taste tests to adequately inform and advise them about overcoming smell and taste deficits.
The Link between Rhinitis and Rapid-Eye-Movement Sleep Breathing Disturbances in Children with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Huseni Shehlanoor , Gutierrez Maria J. , Rodriguez-Martinez Carlos E. , Nino Cesar L. , Perez Geovanny F. , Pancham Krishna , Nino Gustavo
Published: January 2014

Background

Rhinitis and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) often coexist during childhood. To delineate this clinical association, we examined OSA severity and polysomnogram (PSG) features in children with rhinitis and OSA. Given that rapid-eye-movement (REM) sleep is characterized by nasal congestion, we hypothesized that children with rhinitis have more REM-related breathing abnormalities.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional analysis of 145 children with PSG-diagnosed A. Outcomes included PSG parameters and obstructive apnea–hypopnea index (OAHI) during REM and non-REM. Linear multivariable models examined the joint effect of rhinitis and OSA parameters with control for potential confounders.

Results

Rhinitis was present in 43% of children with OSA (n = 63) but overall OAHI severity was unaffected by the presence of rhinitis. In contrast, OAHI during REM sleep in children with moderate-severe OSA was significantly increased subjects with rhinitis and OSA (44.1/hr; SE = 6.4) compared with those with OSA alone (28.2/hr; SE = 3.8).

Conclusion

Rhinitis is highly prevalent in children with OSA. Although OSA is not more severe in children with rhinitis, they do have a distinct OSA phenotype characterized by more REM-related OSA. Further research is needed to delineate the link between REM-sleep and the physiology of the nose during health and disease.
Role of Staphylococcal Enterotoxin B on the Differentiation of Regulatory T Cells in Nasal Polyposis
Authors: Cho Soo-Na , Song Chang-Hwa , Jin Jun , Kim Sung Ha , Rha Ki-Sang , Kim Yong Min
Published: January 2014

Background

The pathogenesis of nasal polyposis has not been fully understood. Recent studies indicate that there is a subset of CD4+CD25high FoxP3+T cells (regulatory T cells [Tregs]) that express retinoic acid receptor related orphan receptor C (RORC) or IL-17, and these cells might be new proinflammatory cells because of the expression of IL-17 with loss of their suppressive function. The goals of this study were to localize Th17-like Tregs (Th17-like Tregs or RORC+Tregs) in nasal polyps and to investigate the role of staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) on the differentiation of Tregs to RORC+Tregs in vitro.

Methods

A total of 60 patients were enrolled in this study. Of the 60 patients, 40 had chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNPs), and 20 subjects who were undergoing septoplasty were enrolled as control subjects. The nasal polyps of CRSwNP patients were subclassified as either eosinophilic polyp (EP) and noneosinophilic polyp (NEP) according to the result of hematoxylin and eosin stain. Tissues and whole blood were collected from all subjects. Double immunofluorescent staining and reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction for RORC and FOXP3 were conducted on the tissues. RORC expressions of Tregs were measured in the tissue using flow cytometry. The proportions of RORC+Tregs subsets and cytokines profiles from the supernatant were measured using flow cytometry after stimulation with SEB.

Results

The cells that express both RORC and FOXP3 and RORC+Tregs were significantly higher in the nasal polyps, especially in EPs compared with NEPs, and control mucosa. RORC+Tregs in peripheral blood mononuclear cells significantly increase in patients with EPs 24 hours after SEB stimulation in vitro.

Conclusion

The results indicate that SEB may be involved in the differentiation of Tregs to RORC+Tregs, and these cells may be involved in the pathogenesis of eosinophilic nasal polyposis.
Decision-Making Analysis for Allergen Immunotherapy versus Nasal Steroids in the Treatment of Nasal Steroid–Responsive Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Kennedy Joshua L. , Robinson Derek , Christophel Jared , Borish Larry , Payne Spencer
Published: January 2014

Background

The purpose of the study was to determine the age at which initiation of specific subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) becomes more cost-effective than continued lifetime intranasal steroid (NS) therapy in the treatment of allergic rhinitis, with the use of a decision analysis model.

Methods

A Markov decision analysis model was created for this study. Economic analyses were performed to identify “break-even” points in the treatment of allergic rhinitis with the use of SCIT and NS. Efficacy rates for therapy and cost data were collected from the published literature. Models in which there was only incomplete improvement while receiving SCIT were also evaluated for economic break-even points. The primary perspective of the study was societal.

Results

Multiple break-even point curves were obtained corresponding to various clinical scenarios. For patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis requiring NS (i.e., fluticasone) 6 months per year, the age at which initiation of SCIT provides long-term direct cost advantage is less than 41 years. For patients with perennial rhinitis symptoms requiring year-round NS, the cut-off age for SCIT cost-effectiveness increases to 60 years. Hypothetical subjects who require continued NS treatment (50% reduction of previous dosage) while receiving SCIT also display break-even points, whereby it is economically advantageous to consider allergy referral and SCIT, dependent on the cost of the NS prescribed.

Conclusion

The age at which SCIT provides economic advantages over NS in the treatment of allergic rhinitis depends on multiple clinical factors. Decision analysis models can assist the physician in accounting for these factors and customize patient counseling with regard to treatment options.
The Effects of Alcohol Consumption and Smoking on Allergy Risk in Korean Adults
Authors: Kang Ju Wan , Baek Seung Hak , Rha Min Seok , Kim Jeong Hong
Published: January 2014

Background

The immune-modulating effects of alcohol and smoking are well known through a great body of research. Furthermore, many studies have been performed on the influence of alcohol and smoking on the development of allergic disease. However, previous studies have reported conflicting results with associations between alcohol intake or smoking and risk of allergy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of alcohol consumption and smoking on total serum immunoglobulin E (TIgE) and prevalence of sensitization to Dermatophagoides farinae in a representative sample of Korean adults.

Methods

TIgE levels and IgE levels specific to D. farinae were measured. Alcohol, smoking habit, and other influencing variables were obtained from the 2010 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination.

Results

Smoking (smoked five packs or more in lifetime) was independently associated with increased risk of sensitization to D. farinae (odds ratio [OR], 1.439; 95% CI, 1.075–1.927). Frequent alcohol drinking (more than four times a week) also showed similar association when compared with subjects who drank less than once per month (OR, 2.052; 95% CI, 1.257–3.350). TIgE levels were also increased along with increased frequency of alcohol drinking. However, smoking habit was not related to TIgE levels.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that history of smoking and frequent alcohol consumption are significantly associated with increased prevalence of sensitization to D. farinae. In addition, frequency of alcohol drinking was also related to a moderate increase in TIgE levels in Korean adults.
Anatomic Evaluation of Endoscopic Transnasal Transorbital Approach to the Lateral Orbital Apex
Authors: Kenyon Bianca , Antisdel Jastin L.
Published: January 2014

Background

This anatomic study investigates the feasibility of an endoscopic transnasal transorbital approach to the lateral orbital apex.

Methods

Five cadavers with no prior history of sinus surgery were studied bilaterally. Standard techniques and instrumentation for functional endoscopic sinus surgery were used to perform dissections and delineate anatomy of sinuses and orbits.

Results

With resection of the inferior aspect of the lamina papyracea and the medial portion of the orbital floor, followed by incision of the periorbita along the inferomedial aspect of the orbit and removal of minimal orbital fat, a satisfactory view of the surgical field is achieved. The medial and inferior rectus muscles are dissected and retracted to allow visualization of the optic nerve. By dissecting inferior to the optic nerve and using 0 and 30° endoscopes, the lateral orbital apex could be accessed without damage to the optic nerve.

Conclusion

In patients whose vision is irreparably damaged, one might consider an endoscopic approach to lesions of the lateral orbital apex. Approach in patients with intact vision should be handled with caution because of possible traction of the optic nerve.
Bacteriophage Reduces Biofilm of Staphylococcus Aureus Ex Vivo Isolates from Chronic Rhinosinusitis Patients
Authors: Drilling Amanda , Morales Sandra , Jardeleza Camille , Vreugde Sarah , Speck Peter , Wormald Peter-John
Published: January 2014

Background

Staphylococcus aureus is the most common organism in recalcitrant chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and is often resistant to traditional antibiotic therapy. Bacteriophages (“phages”) are a potential candidate for a new, effective therapy. For phages to be useful in setting CRS, two minimum requirements must be presented: (1) phages must be effective against S. aureus biofilms and (2) phages must have a broad spectrum of activity. This study aimed to assess the in vitro activity of a phage cocktail (CockTail of Staphylococcus aureus specific bacteriophage [CT-SA]) against S. aureus biofilms and a broad panel of strains isolated from patients with CRS.

Methods

The study examined 66 clinical isolates (CIs) of S. aureus. All isolates were tested for the susceptibility to phage lysis by spotting CT-SA onto bacterial lawns. To measure its effect on S. aureus biofilms, a minimum biofilm eradication concentration assay was used, using five S. aureus isolates. Biofilms of these isolates were grown, treated with CT-SA for 48 hours, fluorescently stained, and viewed using confocal scanning laser microscopy.

Results

CT-SA lysed 62 of 66 (94%) CIs of S. aureus. CT-SA treatment yielded significant reductions in biofilm mass for 4/5 CIs tested and for ATCC 25923. Challenge of S. aureus with a single phage resulted in the emergence of bacteriophage-insensitive mutants (BIM) with a frequency of 10−7, and challenge with CT-SA completely prevented their development.

Conclusion

This study indicates that phage cocktail CT-SA can effectively eliminate S. aureus, in planktonic and biofilm forms, from the great majority of CIs from this hospital setting. In addition, its potential effect in preventing the emergence BIMs was a established. Thus, CT-SA has the potential to treat S. aureus infection and biofilm in CRS patients.
Differences in Skull Base Thickness in Patients with Spontaneous Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks
Authors: Psaltis Alkis J. , Overton Lewis J. , Thomas William W. , Fox Nyssa Flemming , Banks Caroline A. , Schlosser Rodney J.
Published: January 2014

Background

This study was designed to determine if differences in overall skull base thickness exist in patients with spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (SCSF) leaks and to compare our institution's 10-year experience with the endoscopic repair of these leaks to the existing literature. A retrospective cohort study was performed in a tertiary rhinologic practice.

Methods

A retrospective study by two blinded independent reviewers compared the skull base thickness on computerized tomography (CT) imaging in our SCSF leak patients to nonleaking controls and patients with traumatic CSF leaks. Surgical outcomes were compared with a pooled analysis of the published literature

Results

SCSF leaks were seen most commonly in obese, middle-aged women of African American descent. SCSF leak patients were shown to have thinner skull bases in the region of the ethmoid roof, lateral lamella, and anterior face of the sella (p < 0.05) compared with patients with traumatic leaks and nonleaking controls. No racial difference in skull base thickness was observed when patients were matched according to leak type. The success rate of primary endoscopic intervention in our patients was high at 94% and comparable with the published literature.

Conclusion

Differences in skull base thickness exist in SCSF patients, but whether this predisposes to such leaks or is a consequence of the underlying pathophysiology remains unknown. The endoscopic endonasal approach provides a highly effective means of repairing such leaks with success rates comparable with the endoscopic repair of other leak types. Adjuvant measures including weight reduction, lumbar drain, and acetazolamide use may increase success rates and should be considered in their management.
Can Computed Tomography Score Predict Outcome of Adenoidectomy for Chronic Rhinosinusitis in Children
Authors: Ramadan Hassan H. , Makary Chadi A.
Published: January 2014

Background

Chronic adenoiditis (CA) and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in children are difficult to distinguish based on symptoms alone. A computed tomography (CT) scan is one way to distinguish between the two entities. The purpose of this study was to determine whether CT scores can predict outcome of adenoidectomy.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed over a 10-year period. All children who failed medical treatment had a CT scan and an adenoidectomy, which were reviewed. Children who had a CT score of ≥5 were included in the CA with concurrent CRS group, whereas those who had a CT score of <5 were included in the CA without CRS group.

Results

Two hundred thirty-three children met the aforementioned criteria. Mean age was 5.5 years and mean CT score was 6.4. The CRS group had a success rate of 43%, whereas the CA group had a 65% success rate (p = 0.0017). Those children who were asthmatic and had CRS had a success rate of 28% compared with 53% for those who had CA (p = 0.022).

Conclusion

Making the diagnosis of CRS in children seems to be critical in determining whether, initially, an adenoidectomy alone is an appropriate treatment, specifically for those who have asthma.
A Radiological Analysis of Inferior Turbinate in Patients with Deviated Nasal Septum by Using Computed Tomography
Authors: Orhan Israfil , Ayd1n Salih , Ormeci Tugrul , Y1ilmaz Fahrettin
Published: January 2014

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between nasal septum deviation grade and inferior turbinate hypertrophy with the computed tomography (CT).

Methods

The paranasal sinus CTs of 82 patients with septum deviation were evaluated. Nonhypertrophied inferior turbinates on the deviated side of the nasal septum were accepted as the control group and hypertrophic inferior turbinates of the other side were taken as the compensatory group in the same patient. The turbinate bone, medial mucosa, lateral mucosa, septal deviation angle, and deviation volume were measured using three-dimensional CT.

Results

The study group included 82 patients (M/F, 42/40) and ages ranged from 17 to 79 years (mean, 38.5 ± 14 years). There was a statistically significant positive correlation between the deviation angle and the deviation volume (p < 0.01). The measurements of the inferior turbinate bone and medial and lateral mucosal thickness were statistically different between the compensatory group and the control group (p < 0.01). There were no statistically significant differences in comparisons between the lateral and medial mucosal thickness with the deviation angle and the deviation volume in the two groups (p > 0.05). A positive correlation between the measurements of the deviation angle, deviation volume, and bone thickness was found statistically significant in the compensatory group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The compensatory hypertrophy of inferior turbinates in patients with nasal septum deviation is not only caused by mucosal hypertrophy, but also by hypertrophy of the inferior turbinate bone itself. The assistance of preoperative CT before septoplasty can be useful when deciding on the surgical technique to fix turbinate.
Promoting Human Capital Development
Authors: Perna Laura W. , Orosz Kata , Gopaul Bryan , Jumakulov Zakir , Ashirbekov Adil , Kishkentayeva Marina
Published: January 2014

This article sheds light on the availability and characteristics of international scholarship programs that are sponsored by national and federal governments worldwide and that are intended to promote student mobility. Utilizing descriptive and cluster analyses, the article produces a framework for organizing the population of these programs. The analyses take into account both the central characteristics of programs and economic and political characteristics of the nations sponsoring the program. The typology produced in this analysis may be used by policy makers and researchers to facilitate cross-national comparisons of program design, implementation, and outcomes.
The Philippine Komedya and the Recuperation of the Cosmopolitan: From Colonial Legacy to Cross-Cultural Encounter
Authors: Tiatco Anril P.
Published: January 2014

ABSTRACT:

This article critiques the komedya vis-à-vis its institutionalization as national theatre form and proposes a cosmopolitan alternative in the critique. It argues that the imposition of a nationalist perspective in the reading the form falls into the trap of territoriality and “othering” because of its Roman Catholic and Tagalog-centric orientations. The cosmopolitan critique is necessary because it embodies a middle-path alternative to the essentializing and territorializing character of popular nationalism and the anarchy of pluralism. The discussion of cosmopolitanism comes from the irony that komedya could have offered a cosmopolitan possibility when Filipino artists began its indigenization. The efficacy of this possibility was overpowered by methodological nationalism based on the hegemony of the center (The Greater Manila Area) and its central religion – Catholicism. Thus, the komedya was contextualized as a Catholic theatre form and strengthened a particular hostility against non-Catholics, especially the Muslims.
The Haunted Stage ofSummer and Smoke: Tennessee Williams’s Forgotten Silent Film Sequences
Authors: Maruéjouls-Koch Sophie
Published: January 2014

ABSTRACT:

Recent re-evaluation of Tennessee Williams’s late plays has brought to light another side of the playwright, an avant-garde impulse ignored by his contemporaries because it did not match his image as a poetic realist. Of course, this new Williams did not appear out of the blue; he was there from the beginning, if less conspicuous, but the weight of prejudice drove him underground. Thus, the avant-garde is most visible in the early plays, in deviations from artistic norms that did not always make it to the published versions. Summer and Smoke (1948) is a case in point. Examination of the unpublished drafts of the play reveals an ambitious project that never saw the light of day. Inspired by Erwin Piscator’s Epic Theatre, Williams intended to put a screen on the stage, inviting the spectator to see differently, in a manner reminiscent of Brecht’s “exercise in complex seeing.” The drafts, therefore, unveil the avant-garde ideas of a playwright who never ceased experimenting with form, finally to find his true voice, a voice that resonates most loudly in the late plays.
CLINICAL EFTECTIVENESS OF ACUPUNCTURE FOR MANDIBULAR SUBLUXATION AND DISLOCATION
Authors: Lu Dominic P. , Lu Gabriel P. , Lu Po-Ming
Published: January 2014

Dislocation or subluxation of mandible could occur suddenly without Patient's awareness of its forthcoming. Patient may discover suddenly during yawning, laughing, or when the mouth is wide open that he or she could not close the jaw. It may cause serve anxiety and apprehension, that
may put the patient in such a nervous state that may worsen the condition, and also may spastically tense the muscles associated with dislocation. We treated 37 patients in me past and found that, although five patients could be manipulated to have their dislocated jaw reduced to the normal
state, we found that a majority of the cases could not be manipulated without supplementing with other adjunctive methods such as acupuncture at the pertinent acupoints, or injections of local anesthetic around the temporomandibular joint area. Twenty-seven patients were successful to have
the dislocation or subluxation reduced, five patients required local anesthetic for reduction and I patient had to have the reduction done in the operating room under deep sedation. We found acupuncture is valuable in reducing the mandibular subluxation and dislocation. Three acupoints in
calming down the patients were a valuable aid during treatment. LI 4 which is known to reduce pain in head and neck region could increase pain threshold and decrease anxiety associated with discomfort encountered during reduction treatment. Additional acupoints such as P 6 (Neikuan), Ext 1(Yintang),
and H 7 (Shenmen) are valuable for the patients who are tense and nervous. Those acupoints are also could be utilizied as additional aid to ease the spasm of the muscles associated with subluxation and dislocation. Post-operative care includes stabilization at the head and neck region.
Quality of Randomized Controlled Trials in Acupuncture Treatment of Hepatitis B Virus Infection–A Systematic Review
Authors: Zheng Shumei , Du Juan , Lu Xiaoqin , Zhang Yajun , Hu Lisheng , Wang Wei
Published: January 2014

The purpose of this work was to evaluate the quality of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with acupuncture treatment for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. A systematic review of the literature for clinical trials was performed up to September 2008. RCTs assessing acupuncture point
stimulation for patients with HBV infection were considered for inclusion. The search identified 70 relevant trials meeting the inclusion. The quality of each trial was assessed using the revised Consolidated Standards for Reporting of Trials (CONSORT) statement, facilitating critical appraisal
and interpretation of RCTs by providing guidance to authors; the Standards for Reporting Interventions in Controlled Trials of Acupuncture (STRICTA) recommendations, acting as an extension of the CONSORT guidelines for the specific requirements of acupuncture studies; and the Jadad scale,
widely used in different settings to assess methodological quality. All trials were reported "randomization", but only 2 mentioned the methods. None reported allocation concealment, a method used to keep clinicians and participants unaware of upcoming assignments. None reported
blinding. 3 studies described the number of withdrawals/dropouts, while none used the analysis of "intention to treat". The reported items of the STRICTA recommendations were assigned for 65% (13 out of 20). Only 2 studies had a high quality Jadad score. The results from
our work show that the quality was low caused by their methodological flaws and inadequate reports. Further rigorous clinical trials for HBV infection would be necessary to evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture.
Effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Stimulation (1 pulse/sec) Through Custom-made Disposable Surface Electrodes Covering Omura's ST36 Area of Both Legs on Normal Cell Telomeres, Oncogen C-fosAb2, Integrin α5β1, Chlamydia Trachomatis,
etc. in Breast Cancer & Alzheimer Patients
Authors: Omura Yoshiaki , Chen Yemeng , Lermand Olivia , Jones Marilyn , Duvvi Harsha , Shimotsuura Yasuhiro
Published: January 2014

Our previous study indicated that when extremely reduced normal cell (NC) telomeres in various cancer patients are increased over 500ng BDORT units, abnormally high cancer cell telomeres and cancer-related markers such as Oncogen C-fosAb2 (Onco.) & Integrin α5β1
(Integ.), & 8-OH-dG as well as bacterial & viral infections, mercury, asbestos, chromium, & β-amyloid (1—42) markedly reduced due to improved circulation & excretion of these substances in urine. Since 1995, we have been using press-needle stimulation of
Omura's ST36 with 200x press-release procedure 4x a day, with significant improvements in various cancer patients. In this study, Transcutaneous Electrical Stimulation (TES) at 60 pulses/min, which is close to patient's heart rate, was given between Omura's ST36 of both legs
of the breast cancer & Alzheimer's patients. After about 10 minutes of TES, NC telomeres increased from 1yg (=10–24g) to 500–525ng; Integ. reduced from 85–75ng to 0.5ng & Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) reduced from 4500–3500ng
to 0.5ng. An additional 10 minutes TES increased NC telomeres to 800-875ng, while Integ. reduced to 0.5yg & CT became less than 0.1yg. After a total 30 minutes of TES, NC telomeres increased to 1000—1200ng BDORT units, with decreases in Integ. and Onco. to less than 0.1yg. CT reduced
to <<0.1yg. About 24 hours later, NC telomeres were still 300ng & both Integ. and Onco. were 2.5ng. CT was –20ng. In Alzheimer patient, abnormally high β-Amyloid (1—42) of 7—12ng markedly reduced to within normal value of
less than 1.5ng by 20–30 min TES. Stimulation beyond 30 minutes gradually reduced NC telomeres. TES pulse rate of 4 pulses/sec for the same patient initially increased NC telomere up to 750—950ng BDORT units within 20 minutes, but when stimulation continued more
than 20 min, NC telomeres rapidly reduced to –150ng in less than 10 min of TES with reduced beneficial effects.
Metal Ring on 4th or 5th Finger Markedly Increases both Cardiac Troponin I at Left Ventricle and Cancer-Related Parameters such as Oncogen C-fosAb2 & Integrin Î±5Î²1 by 4–12 times. Thus These
Metal Rings Appear to Promote both Heart Problems & Cancer
Authors: Omura Yoshiaki , Hines Howard , Jones Marilyn , O'Young Brian , Duvvi Harsha , Lu Dominic P. , Pallos Andrew , Shimotsuura Yasuhiro , Ohki Motomu
Published: January 2014

We examined patients wearing a metal ring on the left 4th finger with abnormally increased Cardiac Troponin I (which is known to increase in the presence of myocardial injury or left ventricular hypertrophy) of 5Â-14ng BDORT units (depending on the ring and individual)
at left ventricle compared with normal value of lng BDORT units or less. Although shape of the ECG does not change significantly regardless of whether metal rings are on or not, when rings are on, the Bi-Digital O-Ring Test evaluation of trace of ECG revealed vulnerable period of rising part
T-wave of ECG waves (which correspond to the left ventricle and AV node) become abnormal with increased Cardiac Troponin I. DHEA in various parts of the body reduced significantly and maximum decrease in DHEA was found when metal ring was on the left 4th and 5th fingers.
Telomere reduced with each of the 5 fingers, but the 2nd, 4th, and 5th fingers produced the maximum reduction of telomere. When metal ring was inserted onto the left 1st finger and left 2nd finger, Cardiac Troponin I did not change significantly.
Additional abnormality was found when patients with cancer wear metal ring(s), and both Cardiac Troponin I and cancer parameters, such as Integrin Î±5Î²1 and Oncogen C-fos Ab2, increase anywhere between 4Â-12 times. However, when the ring was cut, creating a 1mm
or longer empty space, no increase in cancer markers and Cardiac Troponin I were observed. Similar findings were found with metal bracelets.