bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Residential Proximity to Major Roadways and Prevalent Hypertension Among Postmenopausal Women: Results From the Women's Health Initiative San Diego Cohort
Authors: Kirwa Kipruto , Eliot Melissa N. , Wang Yi , Adams Marc A. , Morgan Cindy G. , Kerr Jacqueline , Norman Gregory J. , Eaton Charles B. , Allison Matthew A. , Wellenius Gregory A.
Published: October 2014

Background

Living near major roadways has been linked with increased risk of cardiovascular events and worse prognosis. Residential proximity to major roadways may also be associated with increased risk of hypertension, but few studies have evaluated this hypothesis.

Methods and Results

We examined the cross‐sectional association between residential proximity to major roadways and prevalent hypertension among 5401 postmenopausal women enrolled into the San Diego cohort of the Women's Health Initiative. We used modified Poisson regression with robust error variance to estimate the association between prevalence of hypertension and residential distance to nearest major roadway, adjusting for participant demographics, medical history, indicators of individual and neighborhood socioeconomic status, and for local supermarket/grocery and fast food/convenience store density. The adjusted prevalence ratios for hypertension were 1.22 (95%
CI
: 1.07, 1.39), 1.13 (1.00, 1.27), and 1.05 (0.99, 1.12) for women living ≤100, >100 to 200, and >200 to 1000 versus >1000 m from a major roadway (
P
for trend=0.006). In a model treating the natural log of distance to major roadway as a continuous variable, a shift in distance from 1000 to 100 m from a major roadway was associated with a 9% (3%, 16%) higher prevalence of hypertension.

Conclusions

In this cohort of postmenopausal women, residential proximity to major roadways was positively associated with the prevalence of hypertension. If causal, these results suggest that living close to major roadways may be an important novel risk factor for hypertension.
Bursaphelenchus osumiana n. sp. (Tylenchomorpha: Aphelenchoididae) isolated from dead Pinus armandii var. amamiana in Osumi Islands in Japan
Authors: Kanzaki Natsumi , Akiba Mitsuteru , Kanetani Seiichi , Tetsuka Kenshi , Ikegame Hiroharu
Published: October 2014

An undescribed Bursaphelenchus species was isolated and cultured from materials collected during a field survey of a declining endemic pine species. Two nematode isolates were obtained from dead Pinus armandii var. amamiana on two islands (Yakushima and Tanegashima) in Kagoshima, Japan. The new nematode is described and illustrated herein as B. osumiana n. sp. Typologically, B. osumiana n. sp. is similar to B. parvispicularis and B. paraparvispicularis, i.e., males of these species have a short, stout spicule. The new species is distinguished from the other two by the shape of the male bursal flap (very small and triangular) and female tail morphology (weakly ventrally arcuate with narrow rounded or weakly pointed terminus), which are unique to this species. Near full-length molecular sequences of the small subunit (18S), internal transcribed spacer region, and D2D3 expansion segments of the large subunit of ribosomal RNA and a partial sequence of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (mtCOI) were obtained to molecularly profile the new species. The sequence profiles were identical for the two isolates of B. osumiana n. sp., and were close to those of B. parvispicularis and B. paraparvispicularis. The new species was clearly distinguished molecularly from both of its close relatives and its molecular phylogenetic status and typological characters were in accordance. Other biological characters, e.g., carrier insect species and pathogenicity with regard to pine tree species, have not been clarified and should be examined in future studies.
Life history trait analysis of the entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema riobrave
Authors: Addis Temesgen , Teshome Asmamaw , Strauch Olaf , Ehlers Ralf-Udo
Published: October 2014

Life history traits (LHT) of Steinernema riobrave strain Sr 7-12 and Sr HYB19 were assessed at 25°C in monoxenic culture using a hanging drop technique. The LHT were studied with 5 × 109, 10 × 109 and 20 × 109 cells ml−1 of Xenorhabdus cabanillasii in semi-solid Nematode Growth Gelrite. Increased X. cabanillasii densities had a significant positive influence on offspring production on both Sr 7-12 and the hybrid Sr HYB19. At the higher bacterial food density, the total fertility rate (TFR) per female of Sr 7-12 was 2022 offspring and the net reproductive rate () reached 1904 offspring. Similarly, for Sr HYB19, the TFR per female was 2434 and was 1903. The percentage offspring produced via intra-uterine development (endotokia matricida) was relatively higher at 5 × 109 bacterial cells ml−1 than at higher bacterial density, with 64% and 66% of the total offspring produced by Sr 7-12 and Sr HYB19, respectively. A positive correlation () was recorded for offspring production and bacterial food density and for female body volume with bacterial density (). Female nematodes survived longer at higher bacterial food density; however, females of both strains could not survive longer than 7.8 days, beginning from hatching and always ending 1 day after initiation of endotokia matricida. Based on LHT results, there is a potential to maximise yield of dauer juveniles in liquid culture through increasing bacterial food density.
Observations on the life cycle of potato cyst nematodes, Globodera rostochiensis and G. pallida, on early potato cultivars
Authors: Ebrahimi Negin , Viaene Nicole , Demeulemeester Kürt , Moens Maurice
Published: October 2014

Potato cyst nematodes (PCN) are the most economically important nematode pests of potato. Early harvesting is part of a preventive management approach for very early potato varieties. In Belgium, tubers are harvested before 20 June because it is assumed that no cyst formation occurs by that date. However, this assumption might not be valid any more because of climate change, the availability of new cultivars (with new traits), and the increasing prevalence of Globodera pallida. Therefore, pot, microplot and field trials were conducted to study the life cycle of PCN in early potato-growing conditions. The development of populations of G. pallida on three potato cultivars, Eersteling (susceptible to PCN), Première (resistant to G. rostochiensis) and Ambassador (partially resistant to G. pallida) and that of G. rostochiensis on cv. Eersteling was monitored in the growth chamber with simulation of field temperatures of the season. On cvs Eersteling and Première, second-stage juveniles (J2), males, females and cysts of G. pallida populations were found 28, 56, 63 and 77 days after infestation with cysts (DAI), respectively. The number of degree days (DD) for G. pallida to complete its life cycle using a base temperature of 4°C was calculated 450 DD4. On cv. Ambassador, females of G. pallida were never observed. J2, males, females and cysts of G. rostochiensis were detected 42, 70, 70 and 84 DAI, respectively. This species needed 398 DD6 at a base temperature of 6°C to complete its life cycle. Observations in two fields and in microplots under prevailing weather conditions in 2013 revealed that cysts of G. pallida and G. rostochiensis were formed on June 12, when the accumulated degree days were 463 DD4 and 401 DD6, respectively. Our observations show that both species of Globodera develop earlier than was assumed based on previous data. Therefore, harvesting based on the accumulated heat above the basal development temperature required by PCN species can replace the set harvest date.
Yeatesinia barbata gen. n., sp. n. (Nematoda: Plectida: Plectidae), a most remarkable nematode from New Zealand
Authors: Holovachov Oleksandr , Boström Sven
Published: October 2014

The new genus and speciesYeatesinia barbatagen. n., sp. n. is described from a sand dune habitat in New Zealand. The new genus is characterised by a body length of 299-357 μm in females and 304-361 μm in males, lip region rounded dorso-ventrally, broad laterally, dorsally inclined, lateral sides of lip region with two large, horn-like, projections, each bearing one seta at its base, each amphid surrounded by three setiform sensilla, oral opening a broad transverse slit located on the dorsal body surface, and different structure of cuticle in the dorsal and ventral body sectors. This combination of unique morphological characters clearly separates the new genus from all other members of the Plectidae. The phylogenetic affinities ofYeatesiniagen. n. and its relationships to other genera of the family Plectidae are discussed.
Host status and phenotypic diversity of rice cultivars resistant to Meloidogyne species under glasshouse conditions
Authors: Machado Andressa C.Z. , de Araújo Filho Jerônimo V.
Published: October 2014

Five pot trials were carried out under glasshouse conditions to assess the host response of some selected rice cultivars to Meloidogyne javanica, M. paranaensis and M. enterolobii, based on nematode reproductive factor (RF) and number of nematodes (g root)−1. We also determined the broad-sense heritability and variance component estimations associated with M. paranaensis and M. incognita resistance. In addition, cluster analysis of cultivars was conducted. All cultivars were rated as susceptible or highly susceptible to M. javanica and highly resistant to M. enterolobii. To M. paranaensis, only cvs IAPAR 177 and BRS Caravela were resistant. From the principal component analysis and Ward’s cluster analysis, we obtained four conspicuous clusters of cultivars according to Meloidogyne species resistance, which demonstrates the variability of the genetic material studied. Higher broad-sense heritability values for RF and nematodes (g root)−1 were obtained. Taken together, our findings suggest that improvement of resistance of rice to Meloidogyne species resistance is possible. The implications for management programmes are also discussed.
Word Order, Information Structure and Intonation of Discontinuous Nominal Constructions in Cantonese / Ordre des mots, structure de l’information et intonation des phrases nominales discontinues en Cantonais
Authors: Ding Picus Sizhi , Féry Caroline
Published: October 2014

This paper examines the syntactic, intonational and information structural properties of discontinuous nominal constructions in Cantonese. Four different syntactic constructions are identified which are used to indicate different information status of elements in a noun phrase, all involving two full NPs with either overt or covert heads. Discourse particles play a crucial role, not only for the interpretation of information structure, but also as anchoring points for boundary tones. Otherwise, intonation and prosody are not affected by word order changes, with the exception of optional pauses after or before dislocated constituents. 

Cet article examine la structure de l’information des syntagmes nominaux discontinus en Cantonais, ainsi que leurs propriétés syntaxiques et intonatives. Quatre constructions syntaxiques distinctes ont été identifiées qui servent à exprimer des rôles spécifiques de structure de l’information sur des parties de syntagmes nominaux. Ces rôles impliquent deux syntagmes nominaux complets et indépendants l’un de l’autre, avec des têtes prononcées ou non. Les particules discursives jouent un rôle essentiel, non seulement pour l’interprétation de la structure de l’information, mais aussi pour l’ancrage des tons de frontière. L’intonation et la prosodie ne jouent aucun rôle en dehors des pauses facultatives avant ou après les syntagmes discontinus. L’intonation n’est pas affectée par les changements d’ordre des mots.
Optimal Audiovisual Integration in People with One Eye
Authors: Moro Stefania S. , Harris Laurence R. , Steeves Jennifer K. E.
Published: October 2014

People with one eye show altered sensory processing. Such changes might reflect a central re-weighting of sensory information that might impact on how multisensory cues are integrated. We assessed whether people who lost an eye early in life differ from controls with respect to audiovisual integration. In order to quantify the relative weightings assigned to each sensory system, participants were asked to spatially localize audiovisual events that have been previously shown to be optimally combined and perceptually fused from the point of view of location in a normal population, where the auditory and visual components were spatially disparate. There was no difference in the variability of localizing unimodal visual and auditory targets by people with one eye compared to controls. People with one eye did however, demonstrate slower reaction times to localize visual stimuli compared to auditory stimuli and were slower than binocular and eye-patched control groups. When localizing bimodal targets, the weightings assigned to each sensory modality in both people with one eye and controls were predictable from their unimodal performance, in accordance with Maximum Likelihood Estimation and the time it took all three groups to localize the bimodal targets was faster than for vision alone. Regardless of demonstrating a longer response time to visual stimuli, people with one eye appear to integrate the auditory and visual components of multisensory events optimally when determining spatial location.
Euphorbia kadapensis (Euphorbiaceae), a new species from southern India
Authors: SAROJINIDEVI NAIDU , REDDIVENKATARAJU RUDRARAJU
Published: October 2014

Euphorbia kadapensis, a new species of Euphorbiaceae is described from Kadapa district in Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh, southern India. It belongs to Euphorbia subgen. Chamaesyce. Within the group, it resembles E. concanensis, E. longistyla and E. senguptae of sect. Anisophyllum subsect. Hypericifoliae though the affinities are more so with the allopatric E. concanensis from the west coast of India.
A review of the glyptosternine catfish genus Exostoma Blyth 1860 from Thailand, with descriptions of two new species (Teleostei: Siluriformes)
Authors: NG HEOK HEE , VIDTHAYANON CHAVALIT
Published: October 2014

We review members of the sisorid catfish genus Exostoma known from Thailand. Three species are recognized, of which two from the headwaters of the Chao Phraya River drainage in northwestern Thailand, are described here as new: E. effrenum and E. peregrinator. In addition to the two new species, E. berdmorei (which is here redescribed) is also known from the Salween River drainage in western Thailand. The three species can be distinguished from each other and other congeners by the morphologies of the adipose and caudal fins, as well as morphometric data for the eye diameter, head width, dorsal-to-adipose distance, body depth at anus, caudal-peduncle length, caudal-peduncle depth, and numbers of branched pectoral-fin rays and preanal vertebrae.
Notes on a collection of the tribe Meconematini (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae)
from Hainan, China
Authors: JIAO JIAO , CHANG YAN-LIN , SHI FU-MING
Published: October 2014

This paper deals with 7 genera and 12 species of the tribe Meconematini from Hainan, China, three of which are new species, i.e. Xizicus (Axizicus) bispinus sp. nov., Xizicus (Eoxizicus) furcutus sp. nov. and Xizicus (Eoxizicus) streptocercus sp. nov., and the first record of Xizicus (Axizicus) szechwanensis (Tinkham, 1944), Xiphidiopsis (Xiphidiopsis) autumnalis Gorochov, 1998 and the female of Teratura (Teratura) flexispatha Qiu & Shi, 2010. The specimens examined are deposited in the Museum of Hebei University.
Description of a new montane freshwater crab (Crustacea: Potamidae: Geothelphusa) from northern Taiwan
Authors: SHY JHY-YUN , SHIH HSI-TE , MAO JEAN-JAY
Published: October 2014

A new freshwater crab is described from a montane area in northern Taiwan based on morphological characters and molecular evidence. Geothelphusa cilan sp. nov., from the Cilan Forest, situated on the boundary of Hsinchu and Yilan (= Ilan) counties, is close to G. monticola Shy, Ng & Yu, 1994, and G. takuan Shy, Ng & Yu, 1994, but can be distinguished by its male first gonopod (G1) and the ratio of thoracic sternites. Molecular evidence from mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) also supports the identity of the new species.
Statistical Characteristics of Unsteady Storms in Radar Observations for the Beijing–Tianjin Region
Authors: Wang Yu , Wang Hong-Qing , Han Lei , Lin Yin-Jing , Zhang Yan
Published: October 2014

This study was designed to provide basic information for the improvement of storm nowcasting. According to the mean direction deviation of storm movement, storms were classified into three types: 1) steady storms (S storms, extrapolated efficiently), 2) unsteady storms (U storms, extrapolated poorly), and 3) transitional storms (T storms). The U storms do not fit the linear extrapolation processes because of their unsteady movements. A 6-yr warm-season radar observation dataset was used to highlight and analyze the differences between U storms and S storms. The analysis included geometric features, dynamic factors, and environmental parameters. The results showed that storms with the following characteristics changed movement direction most easily in the Beijing–Tianjin region: 1) smaller storm area, 2) lower thickness (echo-top height minus base height), 3) lower movement speed, 4) weaker updrafts and the maximum value located in the mid- and upper troposphere, 5) storm-relative vertical wind profiles dominated by directional shear instead of speed shear, 6) lower relative humidity in the mid- and upper troposphere, and 7) higher surface evaporation and ground roughness.
Morphology, Intensity, and Rainfall Production of MJO Convection: Observations from DYNAMO Shipborne Radar and TRMM
Authors: Xu Weixin , Rutledge Steven A.
Published: October 2014

This study uses Dynamics of the Madden–Julian Oscillation (DYNAMO) shipborne [Research Vessel (R/V) Roger Revelle] radar and Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Precipitation Radar (PR) datasets to investigate MJO-associated convective systems in specific organizational modes [mesoscale convective system (MCS) versus sub-MCS and linear versus nonlinear]. The Revelle radar sampled many “climatological” aspects of MJO convection as indicated by comparison with the long-term TRMM PR statistics, including areal-mean rainfall (6–7 mm day−1), convective intensity, rainfall contributions from different morphologies, and their variations with MJO phase. Nonlinear sub-MCSs were present 70% of the time but contributed just around 20% of the total rainfall. In contrast, linear and nonlinear MCSs were present 10% of the time but contributed 20% and 50%, respectively. These distributions vary with MJO phase, with the largest sub-MCS rainfall fraction in suppressed phases (phases 5–7) and maximum MCS precipitation in active phases (phases 2 and 3). Similarly, convective–stratiform rainfall fractions also varied significantly with MJO phase, with the highest convective fractions (70%–80%) in suppressed phases and the largest stratiform fraction (40%–50%) in active phases. However, there are also discrepancies between the Revelle radar and TRMM PR. Revelle radar data indicated a mean convective rain fraction of 70% compared to 55% for TRMM PR. This difference is mainly due to the reduced resolution of the TRMM PR compared to the ship radar. There are also notable differences in the rainfall contributions as a function of convective intensity between the Revelle radar and TRMM PR. In addition, TRMM PR composites indicate linear MCS rainfall increases after MJO onset and produce similar rainfall contributions to nonlinear MCSs; however, the Revelle radar statistics show the clear dominance of nonlinear MCS rainfall.
Sounding-Based Thermodynamic Budgets for DYNAMO
Authors: Johnson Richard H. , Ciesielski Paul E. , Ruppert James H. , Katsumata Masaki
Published: October 2014

The Dynamics of the Madden–Julian Oscillation (DYNAMO) field campaign, conducted over the Indian Ocean from October 2011 to March 2012, was designed to study the initiation of the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO). Two prominent MJOs occurred in the experimental domain during the special observing period in October and November. Data from a northern and a southern sounding array (NSA and SSA, respectively) have been used to investigate the apparent heat sources and sinks (Q1 and Q2) and radiative heating rates QR throughout the life cycles of the two MJO events. The MJO signal was far stronger in the NSA than the SSA. Time series of Q1, Q2, and the vertical eddy flux of moist static energy reveal an evolution of cloud systems for both MJOs consistent with prior studies: shallow, nonprecipitating cumulus during the suppressed phase, followed by cumulus congestus, then deep convection during the active phase, and finally stratiform precipitation. However, the duration of these phases was shorter for the November MJO than for the October event. The profiles of Q1 and Q2 for the two arrays indicate a greater stratiform rain fraction for the NSA than the SSA—a finding supported by TRMM measurements. Surface rainfall rates and net tropospheric QR determined as residuals from the budgets show good agreement with satellite-based estimates. The cloud radiative forcing was approximately 20% of the column-integrated convective heating and of the same amplitude as the normalized gross moist stability, leaving open the possibility of radiative–convective instability for the two MJOs.
Tracking Scheme Dependence of Simulated Tropical Cyclone Response to Idealized Climate Simulations
Authors: Horn Michael , Walsh Kevin , Zhao Ming , Camargo Suzana J. , Scoccimarro Enrico , Murakami Hiroyuki , Wang Hui , Ballinger Andrew , Kumar Arun , Shaevitz Daniel A. , Jonas Jeffrey A. , Oouchi Kazuyoshi
Published: October 2014

Future tropical cyclone activity is a topic of great scientific and societal interest. In the absence of a climate theory of tropical cyclogenesis, general circulation models are the primary tool available for investigating the issue. However, the identification of tropical cyclones in model data at moderate resolution is complex, and numerous schemes have been developed for their detection.

The influence of different tracking schemes on detected tropical cyclone activity and responses in the Hurricane Working Group experiments is examined herein. These are idealized atmospheric general circulation model experiments aimed at determining and distinguishing the effects of increased sea surface temperature and other increased CO2 effects on tropical cyclone activity. Two tracking schemes are applied to these data and the tracks provided by each modeling group are analyzed.

The results herein indicate moderate agreement between the different tracking methods, with some models and experiments showing better agreement across schemes than others. When comparing responses between experiments, it is found that much of the disagreement between schemes is due to differences in duration, wind speed, and formation-latitude thresholds. After homogenization in these thresholds, agreement between different tracking methods is improved. However, much disagreement remains, accountable for by more fundamental differences between the tracking schemes. The results indicate that sensitivity testing and selection of objective thresholds are the key factors in obtaining meaningful, reproducible results when tracking tropical cyclones in climate model data at these resolutions, but that more fundamental differences between tracking methods can also have a significant impact on the responses in activity detected.
Intra-Event Trends in Stable Isotopes: Exploring Midlatitude Precipitation Using a Vertically Pointing Micro Rain Radar
Authors: Muller Catherine L. , Baker Andy , Fairchild Ian J. , Kidd Chris , Boomer Ian
Published: October 2014

Annual, monthly, and daily analyses of stable isotopes in precipitation are commonly made worldwide, yet only a few studies have explored the variations occurring on short time scales within individual precipitation events, particularly at midlatitude locations. This study examines hydrogen isotope data from sequential, intra-event samples from 16 precipitation events during different seasons and a range of synoptic conditions over an 18-month period in Birmingham, United Kingdom. Precipitation events were observed simultaneously using a vertically pointing micro rain radar (MRR), which, for the first time at a midlatitude location, allowed high-resolution examination of the microphysical characteristics (e.g., rain rate, fall velocity, and drop size distributions) that may influence the local isotopic composition of rainwater. The range in the hydrogen isotope ratio (δD, where D refers to deuterium) in 242 samples during 16 events was from −87.0‰ to +9.2‰, while the largest variation observed in a single event was 55.4‰. In contrast to previous work, the results indicate that some midlatitude precipitation events do indeed show significant intra-event trends that are strongly influenced by precipitation processes and parameters such as rain rate, melting-level height, and droplet sizes. Inverse relationships between rain rate and isotopic composition are observed, representing an example of a local type of “amount effect,” a still poorly understood process occurring at different scales. For these particular events, the mean δ value may therefore not provide all the relevant information. This work has significance for the testing and development of isotope-enabled cloud-resolving models and land surface models at higher resolutions, and it provides improved insights into a range of environmental processes that are influenced by subsampled precipitation events.
Mucosal Leishmaniasis: Quantitative Nasal Cytology as a Marker of Disease Activity and Indicator of Healing
Authors: Guerreiro Jaqueline B. , Cruz Álvaro A. , Barral Aldina , Lessa Hélio A. , Rocha Heonir , Carvalho Edgar M.
Published: October 2014

Mucosal leishmaniasis (ML) follow-up is based on subjective parameters. Using simplified quantitative cytology of nasal lavages (QNCs), we studied 20 ML patients, 10 patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), and 10 healthy subjects. Patients with ML were treated with antimony and followed up with otolaryngological examination plus QNCs for 6 months. At the first evaluation, the median total number of cells in ML patients (1,540,000) was greater than that in CL patients (215,000) or that in healthy subjects (250,000). Neutrophils were predominant in ML patients, in contrast to both sets of controls, in whom epithelial cells were more frequent. During treatment, we found a significant reduction in total nasal cell counts in ML patients who were cured, and encountered a switch in predominant cell type. The cytology of 2 patients who did not respond to antimony remained the same. It is therefore possible to detect nasal inflammation in ML patients through QNCs, which may indicate extension of mucosal involvement, providing an objective parameter to monitor therapy.
Nasopharyngeal Tonsil's Provision of the Surface Secretions with Immunocytes, a Property Additional to Antigen Processing
Authors: Ivarsson Magnus , Lundberg Christer
Published: October 2014

As we recently found that IgA, IgM, and IgG are produced and secreted by immunocytes present in nasopharyngeal secretions, we tested the hypothesis that B- and T-lymphocytes in the surface secretions are derived from the nasopharyngeal tonsil in an active process. By immunohistochemistry, we found that numerous B- and T-lymphocytes were often accumulated in restricted areas in the epithelium, and some of these cells were demonstrated just beneath the epithelial surface or could be observed protruding into the lumen. A portion of these cells were Ki-67+, indicating clonal expansion and/or immunoglobulin class switching. Analyses of the surface secretions by immunocytochemistry also demonstrated B- and T-lymphocytes, as well as Ki-67+ cells — a finding that indicates that immunologically active cells are transported into the surface secretions. The results imply that there is a substantial migration from the nasopharyngeal tonsil of immunologically active cells into the surface secretions.
Midline Lateralization Thyroplasty for Adductor Spasmodic Dysphonia
Authors: Isshiki Nobuhiko , Yamamoto Yukiko , Tsuji Domingos H. , Iizuka Yasukimi
Published: October 2014

Midline lateralization thyroplasty was successfully performed on a patient with adductor spasmodic dysphonia. The thyroid cartilage was incised at the midline, and a 3 × 2-mm perforation was made at the anterior commissure to widen it. The perforation was closed with a free composite graft taken from the upper edge of the thyroid ala, and the incised thyroid cartilage edges were kept separated 4 mm apart with silicone wedges. A part of the sternohyoid muscle was rotated to seal any leak from the perforation. The postoperative course was uneventful. The voice has been restored to normal, and there is no sign of recurrence of the symptom so far, as of 1 year 5 months postoperative. Although a longer follow-up is needed, this case indicates that midline type II thyroplasty could be a useful treatment for adductor spasmodic dysphonia.
Effects of Botulinum Toxin on Pathophysiology in Spasmodic Dysphonia
Authors: Bielamowicz Steven , Ludlow Christy L.
Published: October 2014

To determine the mechanism of symptom relief with treatment by botulinum toxin injection in persons with adductor spasmodic dysphonia (ADSD), we evaluated the effects of unilateral thyroarytenoid muscle injections on both injected and noninjected muscles in 10 subjects with ADSD, using electromyography on both sides of the larynx before and after treatment. The subjects' speech symptoms were reduced (p = .005) 2 weeks following injection, when the electromyographic study occurred. Muscle activation levels and the numbers of spasmodic muscle bursts decreased significantly (p ≤ .03) postinjection in both the injected and noninjected muscles. The reductions in laryngeal muscle bursts correlated with symptom reduction (r ≥ .7) in all muscles. Reductions in laryngeal muscle bursts did not relate to either absolute or normalized levels of muscle activity before or after botulinum toxin injection. The results suggest that changes in the central pathophysiology are responsible for changes in speech symptoms following treatment.
Distribution and Location of Immunoreactive Atrial Natriuretic Peptides in Middle Ear Mucosa of Guinea Pig
Authors: Chen Hexin
Published: October 2014

The distribution and location of atrial natriuretic peptides (ANP) in the middle ear mucosa (MEM) of guinea pigs were studied with immunocytochemistry (avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex method) and immuno—electron microscopy. A great quantity of ANP-immunoreactive (ANP-IR) cells, including oval small cells and irregular large cells, was observed in the tissue of the MEM. The strong ANP-IR product was observed in the inner membrane of the partial capillary walls. Under immuno—electron microscopy, the ANP-IR product was found to be spheres of 250 to 350 nm in diameter. The results of this study suggest that the MEM has the function of secreting ANP. This paper provides the morphological basis for the study of ANP's function in the MEM.
Pneumosinus Dilatans of the Maxillary Sinus
Authors: Mauri Marcelo , de Oliveira Carla Oliveira , Franche Guilherme
Published: October 2014

A case of the rare condition Pneumosinus dilatans of the maxillary sinus is presented. This is a rare differential diagnosis of a maxillary disease. The diagnostic imaging features of this condition are described, and a recommendation of views for adequately delineating this disorder is given. Only a few cases of Pneumosinus dilatans of the maxillary sinus are described in the English-language literature, and the precise cause and pathogenesis remain obscure. We performed an enlargement of the maxillary ostium in order to increase the ventilation of the paranasal sinus. In the short-term follow-up, this patient has been asymptomatic. The postulated mechanism of air trapping in the sinus cavity seems to be logical in this case, because the symptoms were eliminated by surgically decompressing the sinus to overcome this valve mechanism.
Dysphagia after Radiotherapy: Endoscopic Examination of Swallowing in Patients with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Wu Chih-Hsiu , Ko Jenq-Yuh , Hsiao Tzu-Yu , Hsu Mow-Ming
Published: October 2014

Dysphagia is a late sequela compromising the lives of more than one fourth of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) who survive long after radiotherapy. By using fiberoptic endoscopic examination of swallowing as a modality for dysphagia evaluation, we were able to easily recognize the functional and anatomic changes in 31 dysphagic NPC patients. The majority of patients were found to aspirate after the act of swallowing (77.4%). Seventeen (54.8%) had tongue atrophy, and 9 (29%) had vocal cord palsy. Dysfunctions such as dry mouth (45.2%), velopharyngeal incompetence (58%), premature leakage (41.9%), delay or absence of swallow reflex (87.1%), poor pharyngeal constriction (80.6%), pharyngeal residue retention (83.9%), penetration or aspiration (93.5%), and silent aspiration (41.9%) were noted in these patients. Multiple dysfunctions were demonstrated in each patient. Abnormality of pharyngeal constriction and/or aberrant upper esophageal sphincter function played the major role in the postswallow aspiration of these irradiated NPC patients. Clinically compromised patients (weight loss of ≥5 kg in 1 year or pneumonia) had more of the above anatomic and functional impairments. The radiation dosage and volume bore no correlation to the time of symptom onset, or to the occurrence of functional changes.
Pediatric Lymphangiomas of the Head and Neck
Authors: Orvidas Laura J. , Kasperbauer Jan L.
Published: October 2014

To better define the cause, presentation, diagnosis, and staging of lymphangiomas, we reviewed all cases of lymphangiomas of the head and neck region in children seen at our institution between 1986 and 1996. Sixty-seven children were identified (31 male and 36 female). Age at presentation ranged from birth to 18 years. All but 8 patients presented with an obvious mass, and 5 required tracheotomy because of airway obstruction. The most common location was the submandibular region (37%), followed by the parotid gland (31%). Treatment ranged from observation to extensive and multiple resections. Thirty-one patients underwent only 1 resection, and 2 patients received interferon as part of their treatment. Lesions involving the lip, hypopharynx and/or larynx, the tongue, and the floor of the mouth had high rates of recurrent or persistent disease. We review our experience with these difficult lesions and propose a staging system based on functional deficit, cosmetic changes, sites of involvement, and age at diagnosis.
Irreversible Sensorineural Hearing Loss as a Result of Azithromycin Ototoxicity
Authors: Ress Bradford D. , Gross Eric M.
Published: October 2014

Azithromycin, an azalide antibiotic, rarely causes ototoxicity. According to the few reports in existence, azithromycin-induced ototoxicity occurred following prolonged high-dose therapy in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and resulted in a reversible sensorineural hearing loss. We present a case of irreversible sensorineural hearing loss due to azithromycin ototoxicity in an otherwise healthy woman following low-dose exposure to azithromycin.
Pneumomediastinum due to Venturi Jet Ventilation Used during Microlaryngeal Surgery in a Previously Neck-Irradiated Patient
Authors: Gaitini Luis A. , Somri Mostafa , Fradis Milo , Malatskey Shelton H. , Vaida Sonia J. , Golz Avishai
Published: October 2014

Serious complications secondary to Venturi jet ventilation used during microlaryngoscopy are rare, but when they occur, they may pose a life-threatening emergency. We report the case of a 45-year-old woman, previously treated with 70 Gy of irradiation for a T1 laryngeal carcinoma, who developed pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema after the use of Venturi jet ventilation. Keeping in mind the histologic changes to the irradiated structures, we suggest more caution when using Venturi jet ventilation in patients who have recently undergone neck irradiation therapy.
Ultrastructural Changes in Platelet Activating Factor-Induced Epithelial Damage in Rabbit Maxillary Sinus Mucosa
Authors: Jeon Sea-Yuong , Rhee Chung-Ku , Jeong Pil-Seub , Min Yang-Gi
Published: October 2014

Platelet activating factor (RAF), a potent chemical mediator in inflammation and allergic reaction, has been thought to induce mucociliary inhibition and epithelial damage in the airway mucosa. However, several recent papers have reported that PAF may not readily damage the airway epithelium. The aim of this study was to elucidate the pathogenesis of PAF-induced epithelial damage in terms of ultrastructural changes. Sixteen micrograms of PAF (1 mL of 16 μg/mL) was administered into the maxillary sinuses of rabbits. The rabbits were divided into 2 groups according to time intervals, and the antral mucosa was taken 1 and 3 days after administration of PAF. The tissue was processed for routine transmission electron microscopy. No epithelial degeneration was observed other than platelet aggregation, red blood cell stasis, and swelling of the endothelial cells 1 day after administration of PAF. Migration of inflammatory cells into the perivascular connective tissue, infiltration of eosinophils into the subepithelial and intraepithelial spaces, and vacuolar degeneration of the epithelial cells with focal loss of cilia were seen 3 days after administration of PAF. In conclusion, PAF induced infiltration of eosinophils into the epithelium, and resulted in epithelial degeneration that varied according to the time interval. Our findings suggest that PAF may cause epithelial damage through a series of secondary events, probably due to cytotoxicity of eosinophils infiltrating the epithelium.
Morphology of the Human Thyroglossal Tract: A Histologic and Macroscopic Study in Infants and Children
Authors: Sprinzl Georg Mathias , Koebke Jürgen , Eckel Hans Edmund , Wimmers-Klick Julia , Thumfart Walter Franz
Published: October 2014

The anatomic development of thyroglossal tract remnants is not understood at present. For analysis of morphology and growth patterns of thyroglossal tract remnants, we used histologic whole organ serial sections to determine developmental changes through the first years of life. Larynges of 58 infants and children ages 1 month to 13 years were obtained in whole organ serial step-sections in an axial plane. The slides were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, Alcian blue, and periodic acid–Schiff stains. Altogether, 3,247 histologic slices were examined. The resulting data were then correlated with the age and sex of the specimens. We found, in 24 cases (41.3%), remnants of the thyroglossal tract or ectopic thyroid tissue. In 4 specimens (16.6%), a complete thyroglossal tract could be observed that presented a ventral path in relation to the hyoid bone with no contact with the perichondrium of the cartilage. Hormonal activity of ectopic thyroid tissue was proven in 20 cases (34.5%). Thyroid follicles were located in 2 cases (3.5%) in the hyoid bone. The thyroglossal ducts revealed a modest tendency for a left-sided pathway, whereas thyroid follicles were located more on the right paramedian side. Morphometric data on the development and structure of the thyroglossal tract and the thyroid follicles during infancy and childhood are presented. The study provides quantitative data of clinical interest that elucidate the anatomy of thyroglossal tract remnants. In addition, our investigation supports Sistrunk's operative approach for avoiding recurrences in the treatment of thyroglossal duct cysts.
Twenty-Year Report of the First Auditory Brain Stem Nucleus Implant
Authors: House William F. , Hitselberger William E.
Published: October 2014

We present the 20-year case report of an auditory implant placed on the dorsal cochlear nucleus with long-term electrical stimulation in a patient with neurofibromatosis 2. The patient has continued to use her implant daily for 20 years, and it has greatly enhanced her quality of life. There have been no adverse sequelae.
Laser Cordotomy versus Radiotherapy: An Objective Cost Analysis
Authors: Brandenburg James H.
Published: October 2014

This study presents a cost analysis of and comparison between laser cordotomy and external beam irradiation for the treatment of early glottic carcinoma. It compares the curative results of the two modalities from data of a retrospective study at my institution and a literature review of published cure rates. It also reviews the results of objective voice assessments in cases representing both treatments. The findings of this study indicate that the cure rates are equivalent and that voice quality obtained after laser cordotomy is comparable to that obtained after irradiation, yet the total cost of external beam radiotherapy is significantly higher than that of laser surgery. Hence, the findings of this study provide strong support for initially treating early glottic tumors with laser surgery.
Pediatric Tracheotomy: Is Postoperative Chest X-Ray Necessary?
Authors: Darden Daryle , Towbin Richard , Dohar Joseph e.
Published: October 2014

A retrospective study of 101 children who underwent tracheotomy at the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh from 1993 to 1996 was performed. The following criteria were reviewed in each patient: age, gender, race, prematurity, weight during tracheotomy, presence of preoperative airway support, duration of tracheotomy, nature (emergent versus elective), tracheotomy tube size, reason for tracheotomy, accompanying medical diagnoses, chest x-ray (CXR) findings, surgical service, postoperative symptoms (up to 3 days), and operative mortality rate. Of these criteria, our results show that CXR-screenable complications occurred in patients who underwent emergent recannulation, as well as those who exhibited ventilatory distress (oxygen saturation level of <90%) and specific changes in postoperative symptoms. Pneumothorax developed after tracheotomy in 3 of the 101 patients; each had one of these risk factors. We conclude that CXR of all pediatric patients after tracheotomy may be unnecessary with the use of flexible endoscopy and screening restrictions that are both health-conscious and cost-effective.
Concurrent Glottic and Tracheal Stenoses: Restoration of Airway Continuity in End-Stage Malignant Disease
Authors: Wassermann Klaus , Mathen Frank , Eckel Hans Edmund
Published: October 2014

Six patients known to have inoperable esophageal carcinoma presented with stridor due to both malignant tracheal stenosis (with additional respiratory-digestive tract fistula in 2 patients) and bilateral vocal cord paralysis. Patency was restored by endotracheal stenting plus unilateral cordotomy. Four patients had immediate relief. Two patients required enlargement of the vocal cord incision. One of them declined reoperation and underwent tracheostomy. The stent function was uneventful, with no dislodgment or mucus impaction. The fistula seal was complete, with no aspiration through the newly shaped glottic orifice. The peak expiratory flow increased from 24.4% ± 9.7% of predicted normal before the procedure to 40.5% ± 13.7% after the procedure. Restoration of airway continuity in serial laryngotracheal stenoses by a combined approach is a feasible technique in end-stage cancer patients. It effectively relieves respiratory distress and ensures voice preservation. In addition, it may avoid the risks of tracheotomy.
Incidence of Pharyngeal Hypophysis in Neonates a Histologic Study
Authors: Noronha Bosco E. , Panda Naresh K. , Mehra Y. N. , Mann S. B. S. , Banerjee C. K.
Published: October 2014

The presence of adenohypophysial tissue in the nasopharynx is no longer disputed. This study was performed in 50 neonatal cadavers subjected to medical autopsy within 6 hours of death. The aim was to study the incidence of extrasellar pituitary tissue in the nasopharynx and its various histologic cell types. The transpalatal approach was used to obtain the specimens. The specimens were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and periodic acid-Schiff–orange G for selective demonstration of adenohypophysial cells. Histopathologic evaluation led to the detection of pituitary tissue in 16% of the examined specimens. Selective staining demonstrated a 6% positive incidence of adenohypophysial cells. The pharyngeal hypophysis exists in 2 forms: a typical adenohypophysial collection of cells and an atypical subepithelial cluster. The incidence of hypophysial tissue was higher in the older neonates, perhaps because of hormonal stimulation of the caudal remnant of Rathke's pouch.
Evaluation of Voice Quality in Adductor Spasmodic Dysphonia before and after Botulinum Toxin Treatment
Authors: Langeveld Ton P. M. , Houtman Edgar H. , Briaire Jeroen J. , van Rossum Maya , Zwinderman Aeilko H. , de Jong Robert J. Baatenburg
Published: October 2014

In this prospective study, the efficacy of botulinum toxin (Botox) injections in patients with adductor spasmodic dysphonia (AdSD) was assessed by 3 different modalities: perceptual and acoustic analyses and subjective self-assessment. This was done by comparing AdSD patients' pretreatment and posttreatment values and comparing these values with those of normal control speakers. In contrast to most other studies, the posttreatment status was defined as the optimal voice quality as judged by the patient. The aim of the study was to assess to what extent Botox injections actually improve voice quality and function. The AdSD subjects rated a significantly improved voice quality and function after Botox treatment. However, the results were never within normal limits. Perceptually, the characteristic and severely impaired AdSD voice improved, but another “type” of pathological voice was detected after Botox treatment. Acoustic analyses demonstrated a significant improvement, as well. Nevertheless, the “optimally” treated AdSD voice still remained significantly deviant as compared to normal voice production. Currently, Botox injection is the therapy of first choice for AdSD. Although significant improvement could be measured in our study perceptually, acoustically, and subjectively, the optimal voice that was achieved never fully matched normal voice quality or function.
Concentrations of Serum Immunoglobulins and Antibodies to Pneumococcal Capsular Polysaccharides in Patients with Recurrent or Chronic Sinusitis
Authors: Tahkokallio Olli , Seppälä Ilkka J. T. , Sarvas Heikki , Käyhty Helena , Mattila Petri S.
Published: October 2014

A study was carried out to search for underlying immunoglobulin deficiencies in 25 patients with recurrent or chronic sinusitis. The mean duration of the patient histories of recurrent or chronic sinusitis was 7.2 years. Concentrations of serum immunoglobulins and specific pneumococcal antibodies were measured in the patients and in 25 age- and sex-matched control individuals. The mean serum IgA concentration (1.6 g/L) was lower in the patients than in the control individuals (2.1 g/L, p=.024). On the other hand, the mean serum concentration of IgG antibodies to pneumococcal type 14 polysaccharide was higher in the patients (2.54 μg/mL) than in the control individuals (0.92 μg/mL, p=.008). However, elevated concentrations of IgG antibodies to pneumococcal type 14 polysaccharide were detected mainly in patients with the highest serum IgA concentrations. The results suggest that in a subpopulation of patients with a long-lasting history of sinusitis, a low serum IgA concentration may be associated with a susceptibility to sinusitis.