bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relations of Body Mass Index and Coronary Risk as Estimated by the Framingham Risk Score
Authors: Kawada Tomoyuki , Otsuka Toshiaki
Published: June 2007

The Framingham Risk Score is considered to predict 10-yr. risk of developing coronary heart disease. Other risk factors, such as a family history of coronary heart disease, sedentary lifestyle, and obesity should also be considered when estimating the risk of development of coronary heart disease. The last two factors can be modified by therapeutic lifestyle alterations. This cross-sectional coronary risk assessment of 16,871 Japanese subjects was estimated by the Framingham Risk Score. Sex and age were included in the calculation of the Framingham Risk Score. When multiple regression analysis was conducted controlling for age, regular physical exercise, smoking, and drinking, the body mass index was significantly associated with the Framingham Risk Score. The standardized regression coefficients for body mass index were .271 in men ( p < .001) and .211 in women ( p < .001), respectively. The significant association of body mass index with coronary heart disease risk, as estimated by the Framingham Risk Score, confirmed prior work.
Effects of Chromaticities and Occlusion of Shaft on Magnitude of the Müller-Lyer Illusion
Authors: Miyahara Eriko
Published: June 2007

The magnitude of the Müller-Lyer illusion was investigated using the Brentano figure by varying the chromaticities of the shaft and the fins along the cone-excitation axes and by varying the occlusion status of the shaft by the fins. 72 college students participated using the staircase method. The stimuli whose shaft and the fin chromaticities were the same produced larger illusions than stimuli with different chromaticities regardless of the luminance contrast between the figure and the surround. When the shaft appeared in front of the fins, the illusion effect was stronger than when the shaft was occluded by the fins.
An Examination of Practice and Laterality Effects on the Purdue Pegboard and Moving Beans with Tweezers
Authors: Noguchi Takanori , Demura Shinichi , Nagasawa Yoshinori , Uchiyama Masanobu
Published: June 2007

The purpose of this study was to examine the relation of practice or learning and laterality on the Purdue Pegboard and the Moving Beans with Tweezers test. The subjects were 30 right-handed, healthy young male adults (age: M = 21.1, SD= 1.9 yr.). The subjects performed both tests five times with each hand. A two-way analysis of variance (hand × trial) for scores on the Purdue Pegboard showed that Trial 1 had a significantly lower mean than Trials 4 and 5 with the dominant hand, and scores on Trials 1 and 3 were lower than that on Trial 5 for the nondominant hand. For the Moving Beans with Tweezers test, Trial 1 had a significantly lower score than Trial 5 with the nondominant hand. The dominant hand produced significantly higher values on all trials of both tests. Intraclass correlation coefficients of Trials 2 and 3 were high, and means were significantly higher for the dominant hand. A correlation between other tests was not high ( r = 37–.46) for both hands. All correlations among five trials on both tests were significant and high (Purdue Pegboard-Dominant: average r = .72, | r| = .60–.80, Purdue Pegboard-Nondominant: average r = .59, | r| = .43–.76), (Moving Beans-Dominant: average r = .74, | r| = .57–.81, Moving Beans-Nondominant: average r = .71, | r| = .55–.87). Correlations among five trials for the ratio of dominant:nondominant hand on both tests were significant and moderate (Moving Beans: average r =.28, | r| = .08–.57, Purdue Pegboard: average r = .41, | r| = .19– .56). Performance with the dominant hand is superior to that of the nondominant hand on both tests. Practice effects are found for both tests across five trials. The Moving Beans with Tweezers test also showed laterality of practice effects. The two tests may measure different abilities.
Hand Preference Consistency and Eye-Hand Coordination in Young Children during a Motor Task
Authors: Mori Shiro , Iteya Misaki , Gabbard Carl
Published: June 2007

Indications of earlier research are that individuals exhibiting a consistent hand preference are better coordinated on selected motor tasks than peers with inconsistent hand preference. The present study examined eye-hand coordination via inter- and intramodal matching behavior by handedness groups for 55 5- and 6-yr.-olds using the Pinboard Test. Analysis indicated the Consistent group scored better, leading to the speculation that children with consistent laterality may possess an advantage in interhemispheric communication, especially when the task requires coordination of both limbs.
Advantage of Dichromats over Trichromats in Discrimination of Color-Camouflaged Stimuli in Humans
Authors: Saito Atsuko , Mikami Akichika , Hosokawa Takayuki , Hasegawa Toshikazu
Published: June 2007

This study investigated whether 12 participants with color-vision deficiency had superior visual discrimination of color-camouflaged stimuli shown on a computer screen compared with 12 participants with normal trichromatic vision. Participants were asked to distinguish a circular pattern from other patterns in which textural elements differed from the background in orientation and thickness. In one condition, stimuli were single-colored, green or red; in the other condition, stimuli were color camouflaged with a green and red mosaic overlaid onto the pattern. Color-vision deficient participants selected the correct stimuli in the color-camouflaged condition as quickly as they did in the single-colored condition. However, normal color-vision participants took longer to select the correct choice in the color-camouflaged condition than in the single-colored condition. These results suggest that participants with color-vision deficiency may have a superior visual ability to discriminate the color-camouflaged stimuli.
Polarization of Perceived Procedural Justice
Authors: Flint Douglas H. , Hernandez-Marrero Pablo , Wielemaker Martin
Published: June 2007

This study examined polarization of perceptions of Procedural Justice. Two polarization mechanisms are examined, Persuasive Arguments and Social Comparisons. Participants were students enrolled in a first-year introductory business class. There were 216 participants in the Persuasive Arguments study, 429 in the Social Comparisons study. The average age of all participants was 22.3 yr. ( SD = 2.1); 56% were women. Fields of study represented were business, engineering, information technology, and sports. Analysis showed under conditions of low Procedural Justice, polarization effects were only found with the Persuasive Arguments mechanism. Under conditions of high Procedural Justice, polarization effects were only found with Social Comparisons. Implications for group polarization and Procedural Justice theories are considered.
Modeling Sport Services in Greece: A Re-Evaluation of Outcome Dimension
Authors: Grammatikopoulos Vasilios , Papacharisis Vassilios , Koustelios Athanasios
Published: June 2007

The Service Quality Scale, developed to evaluate perceived service quality in sport services in Greece, was administrated to 389 participants, 208 men and 181 women. Their mean age was 36.4 yr. (SD = 8.7). A confirmatory factor analysis did not support the prior five-factor solution. When the outcome dimension was removed, a four-factor model appeared an adequate fit. Practical implications are discussed.
Buying Books Online: A Replication
Authors: Yang Bijou , Lester David
Published: June 2007

In a replication study, purchasing books online by 137 state college students was predicted by computer/Internet skills.
Comment on IQ, Sustained Attention, and Visual Processing Speed in Children and Adolescents with Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Kravariti Eugenia
Published: June 2007

This paper is intended to lend support to the 2005 findings of McCarthy, Kraseski, Schvartz, Mercado, Daisy, Tobing, and Ryan in relation to the WISC-III performance of children and adolescents with Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders. Relevant evidence from the literature and recent studies conducted by our group at the Institute of Psychiatry, UK, are discussed.
Torque Levels, Subjective Discomfort, and Muscle Activity Associated with Four Commercially Available Screwdrivers under Static and Dynamic Work Conditions
Authors: Wang Mao-Jiun J. , Lin Chih-Long , Shih Yuh-Chuan , Chung Hsiu-Chen , Strasser Helmut
Published: June 2007

This study evaluated screwdrivers with different handle designs and blade lengths. 10 men and 10 women voluntarily participated. A repeated-measures experiment design was employed. The three independent factors were sex of user, handle (four types), and blade length (130, 170, and 210 mm). The dependent measures were the maximum supination torque under a static task and the %MVC of EMG responses in biceps brachii and flexor digitorum, and a discomfort rating for the upper extremity under the dynamic task. Analysis showed that the in-line screwdriver with the combined characteristics of large handle diameter (3.8–4.1 cm), smooth rubber covering handle surface, triangular (or circular) shape, and adequate handle length (11 cm) had the greatest supination torque and a smaller discomfort rating than the screwdriver with the pistol-grip handle. Blade length was not significantly related to any dependent measure.
Background Luminance and Input Devices on Clicking Performance with a Tablet PC
Authors: Chan Tam , Hsu Hsin-Yi , Kung Cho-Yun , Chen Yi-Li
Published: June 2007

This study investigated the effects of input devices and background luminance on clicking performance with a Tablet PC. The experiment was designed in complete block design within subjects. Participants were 19 men and 11 women, college students whose ages were 19 to 22 years ( M = 20.1 yr.). All had 0.8 corrected visual acuity or better and normal color vision. Three kinds of input devices, mouse, light pen, and touchpad, were used in this experiment. An analysis of variance showed that input devices significantly affected clicking performance as did background luminance (contrast ratio) on visual recognition (a higher contrast ratio gave better visual recognition).
Sex Differences in Reasons for Living
Authors: Pompili Maurizio , Tatarelli Roberto , Lester David
Published: June 2007

An analysis of responses by 837 Italian undergraduate students to the Reasons For Living Inventory indicated women scored higher but less consistently than in previous research on American undergraduates.
The Miandad Effect Reconsidered: Analysis of Pakistan's Cricket Performance 1952 to 2005
Authors: Voracek Martin , Formann Anton K.
Published: June 2007

In 2004 Abbasi and Khan reported an enduring influence of a 1986 Pakistani landmark victory in cricket over India on subsequent matches up to 2003. The present study reconsidered the significance and the specificity of this phenomenon, denoted as the “Miandad effect.” All 659 Pakistani cricket encounters with India and other frequently played opponents up to 2005 which yielded a winning team were included in the analysis. The increase in matches won by Pakistan over India in the post-1986 period was statistically not significant. Changes in match performance against other frequently played nations, namely, increases against England and the West Indies as well as decreases against Australia and Sri Lanka, were larger than the one seen with India. Apparently, the Miandad effect neither generalized to all recurrently encountered opponents, nor was specific to India.
The Economy and Suicide in Japan, 1985–2000
Authors: Hiu F. Cheng , Lester David
Published: June 2007

From 1985–2000, unemployment was the strongest correlate of Japanese suicide rates.
Common Neuropsychological Deficits Associated with Stroke Survivors' Impaired Performance on a Useful Field of View Test
Authors: Fisk Gary D. , Mennemeier Mark
Published: June 2007

Useful field of view is a measure of information processing in peripheral vision that has potential for predicting impaired driving performance. The present study was performed to examine whether common neuropsychological deficits resulting from stroke might be associated with useful field of view impairment. 46 stroke survivors had impaired useful field of view test performance when compared to individuals without stroke ( t30.6= −4.33, p < .001). The impairments in useful field of view of stroke survivors were associated with impaired peripheral fields, slowed processing speeds, and diminished attention. Such impairment was not localized to lesions in any particular brain area. Results allow the inference that common neuropsychological impairments may have contributed to inefficient extraction of visual information from peripheral vision.
Precompetitive Anxiety and Affective State of Climbers in Indoor Climbing Competition
Authors: Aşçi F. Hülya , Koca Canan , Demirhan Giyasettin , Dinç S. Cem
Published: June 2007

The purpose of this study was to measure the precompetitive anxiety and affective states of climbers, particularly with regard to sex and types of competition. 37 men ( M = 25.9, SD = 3.8 yr.) and 10 women ( M = 25.9, SD = 4.2 yr.), climbers who enrolled in Indoor Sport Climbing Competition, voluntarily participated in two different types of competition—speed and difficulty indoor climbing. The Competitive State Anxiety Inventory–2 and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule were administered to all climbers just before the competition. The Sport Competition Anxiety Test was also administered to control competitive trait anxiety. Multivariate analysis of covariance yielded a significant interaction of sex and type of competition for affective state (Hotelling T2 = 0.21; F2,33 = 3.43, p < .05). Follow-up univariate analysis indicated that the mean Negative Affect score of women climbers before the difficulty competition was higher than mean Negative Affect scores of men before both speed and difficulty competitions and also the mean for women climbers before the speed competition ( F1,34 = 6.15, p <.05). The results partially supported the hypothesis of differences in negative affect by sex and types of competition.
Self-Determination in Sport Commitment
Authors: Zahariadis Panayotis , Tsorbatzoudis Haralambos , Alexandris Konstantinos
Published: June 2007

The study tested utility of self-determination and sport commitment theories to understanding young athletes' sport commitment. 343 young athletes ( M = 13.5 yr., SD = ± 1.1) from soccer, basketball, volleyball, handball, and water polo teams volunteered to participate. All completed the Sport Motivation Scale and the Sport Commitment Questionnaire. Pearson correlations showed a strong relationship between commitment and intrinsic motivation scores. In contrast, extrinsic motivation scores were not significantly correlated to commitment, whereas amotivation scores showed a negative correlation to commitment. Path analysis resulted in strong positive association of intrinsic motivation and commitment. Amotivation had small negative relation to commitment. According to the model tested, social constraints and involvement opportunities were not significant contributors to sport commitment. An alternative model supported the mediating role of enjoyment to psychological commitment. The results showed that high self-determination is supportive of sport commitment, whereas low self-determination reduces sport commitment.
Grip Strength of Texas Special Olympians
Authors: O'Connell Janelle K. , Rutland Marsha K. , O'Connell Dennis G.
Published: June 2007

Little is known about the physical fitness parameters of individuals who participate in the Special Olympics. The purpose of this study was to assess the grip strength of 104 Special Olympians participating in the winter Olympic Games. Men were significantly stronger than women across age groups 20 to 59 yr. Women's right hands were stronger than their left, while the opposite was true for men, despite the fact that 78.8% of the subjects reported right hand dominance. Mean right and left grip strengths were 25–40% less than the 1985 normative data of Mathiowetz, et al. by age groups. Special Olympian men and women have grip strengths comparable to elderly people rather than age-matched men and women.
Body-Size Perception, Body-Esteem, and Parenting History in College Women Reporting a History of Child Abuse
Authors: Eubanks Jessica R. , Kenkel Michaela Y. , Gardner Rick M.
Published: June 2007

This study investigated the relations among physical, emotional, and sexual abuse up to adolescence and subsequent perception of body size, detection of changes in body size, and body-esteem. The role of parenting history in abused participants was also examined. 38 college undergraduate women, half of whom had been abused, reported instances of abuse, childhood parenting history, and current body-esteem. A recently developed software program of Gardner and Boice was used to present a series of distorted frontal profiles of each participant's own body for the women to rate as being too wide or too thin. A psychophysical procedure called adaptive probit estimation was used to measure the amount of over- and underestimation of these ratings and whether these changes were statistically significant. Analysis showed abused participants had distorted perceptions of body size, although the direction of the distortion was not consistent. There was no difference in detection of changes in body size. Abused and nonabused participants differed on measures of body-esteem and on ratings of most parenting experiences, including experiences with both mothers and fathers.
Self-Corrected Elaboration and Spacing Effects in Incidental Memory
Authors: Toyota Hiroshi
Published: June 2007

The present study investigated the effect of self-corrected elaboration on incidental memory as a function of types of presentation (massed vs spaced) and sentence frames (image vs nonimage). The subjects were presented a target word and an incongruous sentence frame and asked to correct the target to make a common sentence in the self-corrected elaboration condition, whereas in the experimenter-corrected elaboration condition they were asked to rate the appropriateness of the congruous word presented, followed by free recall test. The superiority of the self-corrected elaboration to the experimenter-corrected elaboration was observed only in some situations of combinations by the types of presentation and sentence frames. These results were discussed in terms of the effectiveness of the self-corrected elaboration.
Increasing Distractor Strength Improves Accuracy
Authors: Sheremata Summer , Sakagami Masamichi
Published: June 2007

Attention enhances task-relevant signals while filtering task-irrelevant signals; however, this selection process is not perfect. It is generally assumed that the stronger the irrelevant signal, the more strongly performance is disrupted. The effect of irrelevant coherent motion signals on performance on a color-discrimination task was systematically examined. Motion direction was either congruent or incongruent with response selection. Performance was most impaired when motion signal strength was just above perceptual threshold and improved when the motion signal strength increased. These results suggest that distractors of higher strength increase attentional modulation and are filtered before they interfere with task performance.
Review of Three Tests of Motor Proficiency in Children
Authors: Yoon Dustin Y. , Scott Katherine , Hill Martha N. , Levitt Naomi S. , Lambert Estelle V.
Published: June 2007

The present purpose is to provide clinicians, occupational and physical therapists, and educators with a comparative analysis of three tests of motor proficiency. The Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, Movement Assessment Battery for Children, and Tufts Assessment of Motor Performance were developed to assess the motor skills of children with developmental delays. The selection criteria, interrater reliability, reproducibility, and recommended use of each test are reported here. Recommendations for use of each test include standardization of the sample population to ensure its appropriateness.
Music and Movement Education as a Form of Motivation in Teaching Greek Traditional Dances
Authors: Likesas G. , Zachopoulou E.
Published: June 2007

Research has shown that motivation for participating in physical education, particularly in traditional dances, has decreased dramatically. The aim of this research was to examine whether a music and movement program would increase pleasure and intrinsic motivation of students in elementary education while teaching them Greek traditional dances. 232 students were divided into two groups, a trained group of 135 participants (72 boys, 63 girls) and a control group of 97 (53 boys, 44 girls). The trained group was taught using the music and movement teaching model of traditional dances. The control group was taught using the instructional or guided teaching method of traditional Greek dances. To measure effectiveness of the two methods was accomplished by the completion of McAuley's Intrinsic Motivation Inventory. Analysis of scores showed use of music and movement education had a positive effect on intrinsic motivation for dancing and active participation of students, especially of the trained boys' group.
Strategies Used for Unconstrained Direction Change during Walking
Authors: Taylor M. J. D. , Strike S. C. , Dabnichki P.
Published: June 2007

Full functional mobility requires adaptations, such as turning, to the basic straight locomotor pattern. The aim was to assess the mechanics of completing a complex turning manoeuvre. A full 3-dimensional kinematic and kinetic analysis of the ipsilateral limb was carried out during both straight gait and unconstrained turning through 90°. 10 healthy university students participated. Analysis indicated that two distinctive substrategies of the spin turn—ipsilateral pivot and ipsilateral crossover—were employed. The ipsilateral pivot was the more dynamic turn and required two additional power phases at the ankle and hip to facilitate the pivot phase. The ipsilateral crossover uses a fall into the new direction. The spin turn is a more complex action than previously indicated.
Microglial expression of peptidylarginine deiminase 2 in the prenatal rat brain
Authors: Asaga Hiroaki , Ishigami Akihito
Published: June 2007

Peptidylarginine deiminases (PADs) are Ca2t+-dependant post-translational modification enzymes that catalyze the citrullination of protein arginyl residues. PAD type 2 (PAD2) is thought to be involved in some processes of neurodegeneration and myelination in the central nervous system. In this study, we found PAD2-positive cells in rat cerebra in 19-to 21-day old embryos, i.e. at a developmental stage well before myelination begins. Most of the cells were microglial marker-positive cells found mainly in the prospective medulla, and others were microglial marker-negative cells found mainly in the prospective dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. The former seemed to be in an activated state as judged by morphological criteria. The specificity of the enzyme activity, immunoblotting and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction analyses revealed that these cells expressed PAD2 and not PAD1, PAD3 or PAD4. Our data is indicative of microglial expression of PAD2 in the prenatal developing cerebrum.
An Experiment to Develop Conversion Factors to Standardise Measurements of Airborne Asbestos
Authors: Dodič-Fikfak Metoda
Published: June 2007

An Experiment to Develop Conversion Factors to Standardise Measurements of Airborne Asbestos

Various researchers and agencies recommend different conversion factors for different asbestos exposures. The aim of this study was to develop conversion factors from particles per cm3 (p cm-3) to fibres per cm3 (f cm-3) and from mg m-3 to f cm-3.

More than 1000 exposure measurements were available in the Slovenian asbestos-cement factory Salonit Anhovo. Three types of measurement of asbestos concentrations in the air were used: a konimeter measuring p cm-3, a gravimetric method measuring mg m-3 and a membrane filter method measuring f cm-3. Operation-specific conversion factors among these methods were developed. One conversion factor was obtained for asbestos-pipe-dry jobs (4.7) and one for asbestos-sheet-dry jobs (1.6). Only one conversion factor (0.8) was used for asbestos-cement-pipe-wet and asbestos-cement-pipe-dry jobs. For asbestos cement sheets, two conversion factors were obtained (0.3 and 1.2).

The development of five different conversion factors made it possible to calculate cumulative exposure to asbestos from historical data and to decrease exposure misclassification.
Organochlorine Pesticides in Freshwater Fish from the Zagreb Area
Authors: Bošnir Jasna , Puntarić Dinko , Šmit Zdenko , Klarić Maja , Grgić Matijana , Kosanović Lana
Published: June 2007

Organochlorine Pesticides in Freshwater Fish from the Zagreb Area

The aim of this study was to determine the level of organochlorine pesticides in freshwater fish from the Zagreb area, Croatia. The study included 215 freshwater fish samples from three sites: the Sava River, Lake Jarun, and five fishponds from the Zagreb surroundings. Organochlorine pesticides DDT and derivates, HCH, HCB, lindane, aldrin, dieldrin, endrin, heptachlor with epoxide, and methoxychlor were determined using the GC-ECD method. The determined amounts of organochlorine pesticides were within allowed concentration limits in all analysed fish samples. Median values ranged from below the detection limit of 0.01 μg kg-1 for dieldrin and metoxychlor to 2.00 μg kg-1 for DDT in the Cyprinidae fish family from the Sava River, Zagreb sampling site (group 1).

This study has confirmed pesticide persistence in the overall ecosystem in our country despite the ban of some thirty years ago, like in many other parts of the world.
Are Pine Needles Bioindicators of Air Pollution? Comparison of Organochlorine Compound Levels in Pine Needles and Ambient Air
Authors: Romanič Snježana , Krauthacker Blanka
Published: June 2007

Are Pine Needles Bioindicators of Air Pollution? Comparison of Organochlorine Compound Levels in Pine Needles and Ambient Air

Levels of six PCB congeners and seven organochlorine pesticides were investigated and compared in ambient air and in pine needle samples. The applied methods are suitable for the analysis of PCBs and organochlorine pesticides in environmental samples and for their detection in recent intakes. DDE, HCB, lindane, PCB-28, PCB-52, PCB-101, PCB-138 and PCB-153 were found in all pine needle and air samples. The highest median values were found for PCB-28, PCB-101 and γ-HCH, and the lowest for PCB-180 and DDD. The median value of α-HCH/ γ-HCH ratios was 0.2 in both matrices. DDE/DDT ratios were close to or below 1 in some pine needle and ambient air samples. The results showed a correspondence between air and pine needle pollution; the same compounds were present in the highest or in the lowest levels in both types of matrices. These results suggest that pine needles are passive biomonitors of air pollution.
Morphologic and hydrodynamic conditions of Hel Peninsula's abrasion in the Kuźnica region (southern Baltic)
Authors: Łęczyński Leszek , Chlebus Natalia , Grusza Gabriela , Jędrasik Jan
Published: June 2007

The purpose of the presented paper is the identification and assessment of causes of intensive abrasion in the open coastline of the Hel Peninsula and the effect of countermeasures. Numerical modeling of nearshore hydrodynamics, topographic analysis and field measurements were carried out. The Baltic Sea hydrodynamic model, a model of wave-induced nearshore circulation and the wave model SWAN were employed. 3D hydrodynamic modeling resulted in the become visible that fields of shear bottom stresses as well as bottom currents depended on atmospheric forcing and depth. A correlation between bottom stresses and topography was obtained. The results of modeling of the nearshore hydrodynamics demonstrated a dominant role for alongshore sediment transport. The magnitude of both cross-and alongshore wave-induced currents strongly depended on wave height gradient, which was significantly greater in storm periods. During storms, sediment transport occurs also in the cross-shore direction.
Spatio-temporal variability of mesozooplankton from the Gulf of Gdańsk (Baltic Sea) in 1999-2000
Authors: Mudrak Stella , Żmijewska Maria
Published: June 2007

The spatio-temporal variability of mesozooplankton in the Gulf of Gdańsk was studied using samples collected in the western part of this basin every month in the 1999-2000 period. The investigation indicated that the qualitative composition of zooplankton was typical of this area and was comprised of Copepoda, Cladocera, Rotatoria, Appendicularia, and meroplankton. Acartia bifilosa and Temora longicornis were present permanently, while Cladocera, Acartia tonsa, Centropages hamatus, Eurytemora sp., the genus Keratella, as well as Mollusca and Balanus improvisus larvae exhibited clear preferences for warmer months. Acartia longiremis, Pseudocalanus elongatus, and Fritillaria borealis were encountered in the cooler season (from November to April). Synchaeta spp. dominated among Rotatoria and Polychaeta larvae among meroplankton. The presence of Brachionus calyciflorus indicated the presence and influence of riverine water from the Vistula.
The Comparison of Acellular Dermal Matric (Alloderm), Dacron, Gore-Tex, and Autologous Cartilage Graft Materials in an Experimental Animal Model for Nasal Septal Repair Surgery
Authors: Mola Ferhat , Keskin Gurkan , Ozturk Murat , Muezzinoglu Bahar
Published: June 2007

Background

The aim of this study was to compare the compatibility of Alloderm, Dacron, Gore-Tex, and autologous cartilage graft materials with host tissues in nasal septal perforation repair surgery.

Methods

The materials were placed into the nasal septum of 16 New Zealand rabbits. At the end of the 3rd month, septums of the rabbits were removed totally and reactions, such as inflammation; foreign body giant cell; or fibrosis that developed in the surrounding tissue against the implant material were evaluated.

Results

Acute inflammation reactions occurred mostly with Gore-Tex. There were no differences between groups according to chronic inflammation. When the number of reactions and tissue compatibility were taken into consideration, cartilage performed the best followed by Alloderm. There were more reactions with Dacron, but it still showed compatibility.

Conclusion

Cartilage was found to be the best material followed by Alloderm and Dacron, but Gore-Tex was found unsuitable.
Septectomy and Septal Dermoplasty for the Treatment of Severe Transfusion-Dependent Epistaxis in Patients with Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia and Septal Perforation
Authors: Lesnik Gregory T. , Ross Douglas A. , Henderson Katharine J. , Joe John K. , Leder Steven B. , White Robert I.
Published: June 2007

Background

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by abnormal angiogenesis with resultant telangiectasia formation in mucocutaneous tissues, visceral organs, and the central nervous system. The most common manifestation of HHT is epistaxis resulting from trauma to thin-walled telangiectasias. Many patients with HHT experience worsened epistaxis due to the presence of a septal perforation. Septal perforation in HHT patients results from aggressive noncartilage sparing treatments such as monopolar cauterization. Although the mainstay of treatment for patients with severe transfusion-dependent HHT remains to be septal dermoplasty (SD), patients with a septal perforation are less likely to have a successful outcome. In this small subset of patients, septectomy (ST) combined with SD is proposed to eliminate this variable to improve skin graft uptake and therefore outcome. This study reviews the indications, procedure, and outcome of nine patients with severe transfusion-dependent HHT and septal perforation who underwent the combined procedure of SD/ST.

Methods

Nine HHT patients with severe transfusion-dependent epistaxis and septal perforation underwent SD/ST at our institution over a 5-year period. Quality of life, including number of daily events of epistaxis, and transfusion requirements were determined before and after surgery. Technical aspects of the procedure as well as complications were reviewed.

Results

The combined procedure of SD/ST resulted in a long-lasting subjective improvement in quality of life for all patients. Similarly, transfusion requirements were reduced from 22.61 to 9.57 (p < 0.05). There were no complications or increased morbidity from the procedure.

Conclusion

Combined SD/ST is a safe and effective treatment for HHT patients with transfusion-dependent epistaxis and septal perforation.
Endoscopic Management of Sinus Disease with Frontal Lobe Displacement
Authors: Stumpe Matthew R. , Sindwani Raj , Chandra Rakesh K.
Published: June 2007

Background

Advanced inflammatory disease of the paranasal sinuses may result in erosion of the skull base with frontal lobe impingement. We present a series illustrating minimally invasive management of this process.

Methods

We review 15 consecutive cases of advanced sinus inflammatory disease with frontal lobe displacement. Clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment modalities are described.

Results

Patients ranged in age from 19 to 83 years, and 13/15 were men. Presenting symptoms in all patients included progressive headache (15/15), frontal pressure (15/15), orbital involvement and visual symptoms (6/15), and new-onset seizure (1/15). Implicated diagnoses included mucocele (7/15), classic allergic fungal sinusitis (3/15), and both (5/15). Initially, 14 patients were treated endoscopically, with image-guided navigation in 12 patients. Four patients underwent trephination for combined above/below marsupialization, and three patients also underwent orbital decompression. Two patients failed initial endoscopic management. One of these was salvaged endoscopically and the other required cranialization. Another patient was managed via cranialization in the primary setting. In all cases, mucosa was observed directly against dura. No cerebrospinal fluid leaks were encountered. One patient expired 1 month postoperatively secondary to congestive heart failure. Mean follow-up in the remaining 14 patients was 13.6 months. Follow-up imaging revealed reexpansion of the frontal lobe into the decompressed space.

Conclusion

Advanced sinus inflammatory disease associated with frontal lobe compression may have indolent presentation but significant morbidity. Minimally invasive techniques averted the need for craniotomy in 13/15 patients in this series.
Comparison of Open versus Endoscopic Resection of Inverted Papilloma
Authors: Sautter Nathan B. , Cannady Steven B. , Citardi Martin J. , Roh Hwan-Jung , Batra Pete S.
Published: June 2007

Background

Lateral rhinotomy with medial maxillectomy has served as the standard for surgical management of inverted papilloma (IP) in the pre–endoscopic era; since the late 1980s, endoscopic techniques have emerged as the minimally invasive alternative. The objective of this study was twofold: (1) to compare operative parameters, complications, and recurrence rates and (2) predictive factors for recurrence for open versus endoscopic cases of IP resection.

Methods

Retrospective data analysis was performed on 68 patients with histopathologically confirmed IP treated at a tertiary care medical center from January 1983 to May 2005. Parameters for comparison included operative time (OT), estimated blood loss (EBL), length of hospital stay (HS), complications, and recurrence rate. Predictive factors for recurrence including open versus endoscopic cases, primary versus secondary IP, and tumor by Krouse stage were analyzed.

Results

The average age at time of presentation was 57.4 years with a male/female ratio of 2.2:1. Forty-nine patients underwent endoscopic resection, 13 patients underwent open resection, and 6 patients underwent limited open resection. Average OT and EBL were statistically similar for the three groups, whereas the average HS was statistically shorter (p = 0.002) for the endoscopic group. Biopsy-proven recurrence was noted in 11 (22%) endoscopic cases, 5 (39%) open cases, and 3 (50%) limited open cases. After reresection, all patients were free of disease. Mean follow-up was 16 months, 56 months, and 69 months for the endoscopic, open, and limited open groups, respectively. Analysis of predictive factors indicated that the surgical approach and primary versus secondary IP, regardless of approach, did not statistically impact recurrence rate. Chi-square analysis illustrated that patients with advanced-stage IP had a higher risk of recurrence (p = 0.002), regardless of surgical technique.

Conclusion

In this series, endoscopic resection of IP was associated with shorter HS and equivalent EBL and OT compared with the open groups. The overall recurrence rate was lower in the endoscopic group with acceptable morbidity compared with the open and limited open groups. Thus, the endoscopic approach may serve as a superior alternative to the open approaches for successful extirpation of IP.
Telomerase in Nasal Polyps
Authors: Chen Yue-Shih , Westhofen Martin , Lorenzen Johann
Published: June 2007

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the presence and location of telomerase activities and the possible influence of elevated human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) mRNA levels on the outcome after surgical treatment in nasal polyposis.

Methods

Telomerase activity in nasal polyps of 21 patients was quantified by measuring the hTERT mRNA contents with one-step real-time polymerase chain reaction. Inferior turbinates of 12 patients served as controls. Immunohistochemistry with specific antibodies was performed against hTERT. The number of hTERT marked cells was determined in 15 randomly selected fields. All patients were followed up after surgery for 60 months.

Results

Elevated hTERT mRNA expression and number of hTERT+ cells was detected in nasal polyps in comparison with inferior turbinates (p < 0.001). hTERT+ cells were detected in the basal layer of the epithelia, the endothelia, and in some seromucous glands. During follow-up, it was discovered that tissue samples of five patients with recurrent polyposis did not have higher amounts of hTERT when compared with patients without relapse.

Conclusion

Telomerase activity is elevated in nasal polyps. Elevated hTERT expression does not predict the recurrence of nasal polyposis after surgical treatment.
The Incidence of Complications using New Landmarks and a Modified Technique of Canine Fossa Puncture
Authors: Singhal Deepti , Douglas Richard , Robinson Simon , Wormald Peter-John
Published: June 2007

Background

Canine fossa puncture (CFP) is a technique that improves access to the maxillary sinus and may be required to ensure complete disease removal from this sinus. Traditional approaches through the canine fossa often have resulted in injury to branches of the infraorbital nerve. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency, severity, and duration of complications using recently described landmarks for determining the optimal site for anatomically directed CFP (aCFP) and a new endoscopic retractor and drill guide that enable endoscopically guided canine fossa trephination (eCFT). These complication rates have been compared with those that we have described previously using a standard technique of CFP.

Methods

A total of 63 patients were included with 36 bilateral procedures giving a total number of 99 procedures performed. Of these, 32 procedures were performed using anatomic landmarks (aCFP) and 67 were performed with additional endoscopic guidance (eCFT). Patients were assessed at a mean time of 12.6 months (range, 3–26 months) after surgery by telephonic survey and their complications were assessed and graded for severity on a 0- to 10-point scale.

Results

The combined frequency of adverse events after aCFP and eCFT were 45% compared with the previously reported 76% with the traditional technique (p = 0.001). The number of patients complaining of persisting adverse effects was reduced from 29% after CFP to 5% after aCFP and eCFT (p < 0.001). The 67 eCFT technique had a significantly lower frequency of adverse events (40%) than the aCFP technique (53%; p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The recently described landmarks to site the CFP result in statistically fewer complications. This complication rate is further reduced if CFT is performed under direct endoscopic vision.
Assessment of Predictive Prognostic Factors for Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery in a 5-Year Prospective Outcome Study
Authors: Sil Arunesh , Mackay Ian , Rowe-Jones Julian
Published: June 2007

Background

Among numerous studies in the literature regarding prognostic factors that might determine outcome in functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), very few have dealt with assessment of their predictive potential regarding outcome, and none have tried to find out the extent of such a prediction. We have developed a composite model to find out the predictive values of various prognostic factors, using an outcome measure based on the need for postoperative medical intervention.

Methods

One hundred nine patients were recruited for FESS and followed up at regular intervals for 5 years. Ten prognostic factors were identified and were correlated with prospectively recorded outcome measures. A discriminant analysis using SPSS software was performed to identify the prognostic factors that could “predict” the outcome.

Results

CT scan scores and polyp scores were the strongest predictors. Using our model, the probability to predict correctly the need for postoperative systemic medication was found to be 81.7%.

Conclusion

We have generated a model to predict the outcome of FESS, with a 5-year follow-up. CT scan scores and polyp scores were found to be the strongest predictors of the need for postoperative systemic medication.
Endoscopically Assisted Strabismus Surgery
Authors: Flanders Michael , Hwang Siew Yoong , Al-Ghamdi Saeed , Codère François , Desrosiers Martin
Published: June 2007

Background

Strabismus surgery involving open exploration of the posterior orbit is difficult. Exploration is sometimes avoided by considering alternative procedures (transposition and weakening other muscles). Although the use of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) to retrieve medial rectus (MR) muscles lost in the posterior orbit has been described, the use of an endoscopic approach to the posterior orbit in elective strabismus surgery has never been reported.

Methods

A patient with thyroid orbitopathy had severe bilateral restrictive strabismus with bilateral esohypotropia, rendering him functionally blind. The MR was inaccessible via the anterior approach. We describe a transnasal endoscopic approach to the posterior orbit where the MR was identified, sectioned, and reattached to the globe. We also describe two other patients who had endoscopic posterior orbit exploration after ESS-related MR injury.

Results

In patient 1, repositioning of the medial rectus muscles facilitated follow-up conventional strabismus surgery and dramatically improved ocular alignment. In patient 2, the medial rectus muscle was severely disrupted. A temporary traction suture was placed endoscapically. Follow-up transposition strabimus resulted in satisfactory alignment. In patient 3, endoscopic exploration and freeing of adhesions was done in anticipation of follow-up strabismus surgery.

Conclusion

These cases illustrate the expanding frontiers of ESS. The endoscopic approach to the posterior orbit allows enhanced posterior orbit access in elective strabismus surgery and posttraumatic exploration of the MR.
A Sheep Model for the Study of Biofilms in Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Ha Kien R. , Psaltis Alkis J. , Tan Lorwai , Wormald Peter-John
Published: June 2007

Background

Bacterial biofilms have been shown in chronic diseases such as cystic fibrosis, cholesteatoma, and otitis media with effusion. Recently, their detection on the mucosal tissue of sinusitis patients has implicated them in the pathogenesis of this condition. We present an animal model using sheep experimentally infected with Staphylococcus aureus to study the possible association between biofilm and sinusitis.

Methods

Twenty-four sheep underwent bilateral endoscopic sinus surgery to identify their frontal ostia. The frontal sinuses were treated in one of the following ways according to preoperative randomization: (1) ostium left patent, (2) ostium left patent and bacteria instilled, (3) ostium occluded, or (4) ostium occluded and bacteria instilled. The frontal mucosa was harvested at day 7 and examined for biofilm presence using confocal scanning laser microscopy (CSLM) as well as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

Results

All three modalities showed different rates of biofilm detection. Three-dimensional structures that could be interpreted as biofilms were documented in 86% (n = 36) of the sinuses analyzed using SEM. These structures were seen in all four study groups. The detection rate using the other two modalities was much lower with CSLM, showing biofilms in 48% (n = 20) and TEM in only 29% (n = 12) of the sinuses analyzed. Unlike SEM, these two modalities only detected bacterial biofilms in sinuses randomized to bacterial instillation.

Conclusion

The demonstration of bacterial biofilms in this animal model of sinusitis further supports the hypotheses that biofilms may play a role in the pathogenesis of this condition. There is an obvious discrepancy in the sensitivity and specificity of biofilm detection using the three modalities mentioned. CSLM appears to be the most objective technique. The inherent flaws, sampling error, and subjectivity involved in SEM and TEM make these less reliable in documenting biofilm existence.
The Role of the Otorhinolaryngologist in the Management of Central Skull Base Osteomyelitis
Authors: Cavel Oren , Fliss Dan M. , Segev Yoram , Zik Daniel , Khafif Avi , Landsberg Roee
Published: June 2007

Background

Skull base osteomyelitis (SBO) typically evolves as a complication of external otitis in diabetic patients and involves the temporal bone. Central SBO (CSBO) mainly involves the sphenoid or occipital bones without coexisting external otitis. We characterized a group of patients with CSBO. The endoscopic nasopharyngeal and clival biopsy technique is described.

Methods

Medical records of patients diagnosed as having SBO were retrospectively analyzed (from 2001 to 2006). Patients’ symptoms and signs, laboratory findings, imaging characteristics, endoscopic clival and periclival histopathology results, treatment, and outcome were retrieved.

Results

Of 20 patients with SBO, 6 patients without external otitis were studied (age range, 54–76 years; 5 men; mean follow-up, 21 months). All patients suffered from unilateral headache, three of six patients had serous otitis media (SOM), three of six patients had cranial nerve (CN) palsies, and five of six patients had elevated acute-phase reactants. Computed tomography (CT) findings were clival cortical bone erosion and adjacent soft tissue swelling. Magnetic resonance (MR) findings were texture changes and enhancement of the involved bones and soft tissues. Biopsy specimens revealed chronic inflammation. All six patients were treated with antibiotics for 3–6 months. Headache disappeared in five of six patients, SOM resolved in two of three patients, and CN palsies partially recovered in two of three patients. Imaging findings improved in five of six patients.

Conclusion

CSBO may mimic malignancy and represents a diagnostic challenge. Typical clinical picture and imaging findings together with a positive response to ciprofloxacin may suffice to establish the diagnosis and obviate the need for biopsies. When in doubt, nasopharyngeal and clival biopsies are performed to rule out malignancy.