bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐term loss and re‐formation of the outer radiation belt
Authors: Lee D.‐Y. , Shin D.‐K. , Kim J.‐H. , Cho J.‐H. , Kim K.‐C. , Hwang J. A. , Turner D. L. , Kim T. K. , Park M.‐Y.
Published: May 2013

The Earth's outer radiation belt is known to vary often and significantly on various time scales. In this study, we have used the data of various instruments onboard the THEMIS spacecraft to study long‐term changes of the outer radiation belt electrons around the year 2009. We find that the entire outer belt became extremely weak for nearly a year and was practically lost a few times, each time lasting ~20 days up to ~2 months, before eventually re‐forming. This was revealed at a wide energy range from several tens of keV to up to 719 keV, which was covered by the THEMIS spacecraft measurements. The loss of the outer belt was associated with extremely weak solar wind conditions, i.e., low interplanetary magnetic field magnitude and slow solar wind speed. In particular, this set greatly reduced magnetospheric convection and/or injections for a prolonged time interval, which led to a large expansion of the plasmasphere, even beyond geosynchronous altitude and thus invading the majority of the typical outer belt territory for the same prolonged time interval. Consequently, preexisting electrons inside the plasmasphere had enough time to be lost into the atmosphere gradually over a time scale of several days without being supplied with fresh electrons from the plasma sheet under the same reduced convection and/or injections. Plasmaspheric hiss waves with an amplitude of up to a few tens of pT persisted to exist during the gradual decay periods, implying that they are likely responsible for the continual loss of the electrons inside the plasmasphere. A complete re‐formation of the outer belt to full intensity was then realized over an interval of a few months. During the re‐formation process, the magnetospheric convection and/or injections increased, which led to a gradual increase of whistler chorus wave activity, contraction of the plasmasphere, and supply of the plasma sheet electrons at high L shells. This set first an outward increasing profile of the phase space density, which eventually developed into a profile with a peak at low L of ~5 over a time scale of 1–2 days. In this latter stage, a local acceleration at low L shells is found to be clearly needed although the radial diffusion process can contribute to some extent, in particular, for particles with a low first adiabatic invariant value.
The response of coastal stratocumulus clouds to agricultural irrigation in California
Authors: Lo Min‐Hui , Wu Chien‐Ming , Ma Hsi‐Yen , Famiglietti James S.
Published: May 2013

Stratocumulus clouds (SC) often exist over the eastern subtropical oceans during the summer and have significant impacts on the surface radiation budget. Both atmospheric subsidence and lower troposphere stability (LTS) have been found to play important roles in maintaining SC. Using global climate model simulations, we find that irrigation in California's Central Valley results in a decrease of land surface temperature, leading to a smaller land‐sea heat contrast, and a corresponding reduction in sea breeze, subsidence, and LTS over the near‐coastal region. The decrease in LTS directly drives a reduction in modeled SC coverage, and it would arguably do so in reality because of the well‐known link between LTS and SC coverage. Consequently, simulated absorbed surface solar radiation over this region increases by 8 W/m2 (3.7%) due to the reduction in SC cover, resulting in the warming at the Earth's surface. This study has important implications for how SC can change with regard to future climate. In contrast to the general effects of climate change on the formation of SC, our results suggest that irrigation practices in the Central Valley may drive a decrease in nearby SC coverage.
A new theoretical method for calculating temperature and water vapor saturation ratio in an expansion cloud chamber
Authors: Moteki Nobuhiro , Kondo Yutaka
Published: May 2013

The expansion cloud chamber is a widely used apparatus for investigating the dynamics of condensational growth of aerosols and clouds. Theoretical calculations of temperature T and water vapor saturation ratio S are necessary for quantitative interpretations of experimental data obtained from the expansion cloud chamber. In this paper, we revisit the thermodynamics associated with the underlying assumptions for calculating the time‐dependent temperature T(t) and saturation ratio S(t) in an expansion chamber as a function of experimentally observable parameters. We introduce an intuitive and robust method, the virtual path (VP) method, by which changes in the thermodynamic state of a moist air parcel containing cloud droplets are schematically represented on a thermodynamic diagram. The validity of the VP method is confirmed by comparisons with the differential equation (DE) method, which is a numerical simulation of real physical processes according to the time evolution equations involving T and S. In contrast to the conventional DE method, the governing equations of the VP method do not involve time t, an irrelevant parameter in the framework of classical thermodynamics. The VP method is advantageous compared to the DE method because the former is applicable to the raw experimental data acquired with a finite time resolution, allowing a robust calculation of the T and S values and the errors that are only caused by the measurement errors of the input data.
Numerical simulations of turbulent flow within and in the wake of a small basin
Authors: Katurji Marwan , Zhong Shiyuan , Kiefer Michael , Zawar‐Reza Peyman
Published: May 2013

Small terrain features, such as small valleys, basins, sinkholes, low hills, and outcrops, while generally associated with mountainous regions, can also be found over plains. In this study, we present a numerical investigation of the effect of a small terrain feature (a 30 m high rim) on the mean and turbulent flows inside and downstream of an enclosed basin it surrounds. Results from high‐resolution numerical simulations (10 m isotropic spatial resolution) indicate that small terrain features in the proximity of larger ones can induce relatively large modifications to the mean and turbulent flows. The 30 m high rim is found to have an effect on the mean wind speeds at least 600 m upstream from the basin. The main effect is a 10% reduction in wind speed up to 120 m above ground level due to the upstream blocking effect of the rim. The presence of the rim can also double the turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) both inside and downstream of the basin compared to an otherwise identical basin without a rim. The slopes of the basin play an important role in first creating and then defining the wake, and in intermittent wind regimes most of the scalar transport from near the slope of the basin happens through slope roll vortices that define the edge of the downstream wake region of the basin. Inside the basin, the rim acts to limit momentum transfer in the lower half of the basin, which suggests a mechanical forcing effect induced by the rim on lower basin environments that could interact with thermal buoyancy effects in heated or cooled basins. Some of the wake features resemble wind‐eroded surfaces in the wakes of Martian craters. Results also reveal a critical height level (43 m below the rim height) that acts as the most favored location for TKE production and destruction, which could be important for the top‐to‐bottom turbulence erosion of basin boundary layers. These results stress the importance of resolving small‐scale terrain features, as their effects can be nonlocal.
Imaging spectroscopy of albedo and radiative forcing by light‐absorbing impurities in mountain snow
Authors: Painter Thomas H. , Seidel Felix C. , Bryant Ann C. , McKenzie Skiles S. , Rittger Karl
Published: May 2013

Recent studies show that deposition of dust and black carbon to snow and ice accelerates snowmelt and perturbs regional climate and hydrologic cycles. Radiative forcing by aerosols is often neglected in climate and hydrological models in part due to scarcity of observations. Here we describe and validate an algorithm suite (Imaging Spectrometer‐Snow Albedo and Radiative Forcing (IS‐SnARF)) that provides quantitative retrievals of snow grain size, snow albedo, and radiative forcing by light‐absorbing impurities in snow and ice (LAISI) from Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS) data collected on 15 June 2011 in the Senator Beck Basin Study Area (SBBSA), SW Colorado, USA. Radiative forcing by LAISI is retrieved by the integral of the convolution of spectral irradiance with spectral differences between the spectral albedo (scaled from the observed hemispherical‐directional reflectance factor (HDRF)) and modeled clean snow spectral albedo. The modeled surface irradiance at time of acquisition at test sites was 1052 W m−2 compared to 1048 W m−2 measured with the field spectroradiometer measurements, a relative difference of 0.4%. HDRF retrievals at snow and bare soil sites had mean errors relative to in situ measurements of −0.4 ± 0.1% reflectance averaged across the spectrum and root‐mean‐square errors of 1.5 ± 0.1%. Comparisons of snow albedo and radiative forcing retrievals from AVIRIS with in situ measurements in SBBSA showed errors of 0.001–0.004 and 2.1 ± 5.1 W m−2, respectively. A counterintuitive result was that, in the presence of light absorbing impurities, near‐surface snow grain size increased with elevation, whereas we generally expect that at lower elevation the grain size would be larger.
Structure and chain polarization of long polyynes investigated with infrared and Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Agarwal N. R. , Lucotti A. , Fazzi D. , Tommasini M. , Castiglioni C. , Chalifoux W.A. , Tykwinski R. R.
Published: May 2013

Symmetrically and unsymmetrically endcapped polyynes (triisopropylsilyl – TIPS – and super trityl endcapping groups) have been studied with density functional theory calculations and Raman and infrared spectroscopy. This spectroscopic investigation provides general guidelines for studying the vibrational and structural features of sp‐carbon‐based materials, which nowadays are at the center of growing interest for the potential applications of nanostructured carbon materials in molecular electronics. On the basis of the description of CC stretching modes of polyynes in terms of longitudinal optical phonons of the parent infinite sp‐carbon chain, we have carried out the complete assignment of the observed infrared and Raman features in the 2300–1900 cm−1 range, for chain lengths in the range 4–20 triple bonds. This allows demonstration of polarization effects induced by an unsymmetric structure and deviations from chain linearity in long polyynes. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surgical treatment of sleep apnea: Association between surgeon/hospital volume with outcomes
Authors: Capobianco Dirce M. , Batilana Adelia , Gandhi Mihir , Shah Jatin , Ferreira Rodrigo , Carvalho Elias , Rivero Thiago S. , Pietrobon Ricardo , Atallah Álvaro N. , Prado Gilmar F.
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To identify the association between surgeon/hospital volume with outcomes in surgical treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in a nationally representative sample. We hypothesized that surgeons/hospitals with lower patient volumes would have: higher mortality rates, longer hospital length of stay (LOS), and higher postoperative complication rates and hospitalization charges.

Study Design

Secondary data analysis of the 2007 Nationwide Inpatient Sample database.

Methods

We selected 24,298 adults undergoing OSA surgery. The data analysis included trend test, regression, and multivariate models that were adjusted by demographic and clinical variables.

Results

The patients were mostly White (76.43%), male (78.26%), with a mean age of 46 years. Patients treated by surgeons with low volume of procedures (1 procedure/year) had significantly higher mortality rate (odds ratio [OR] 3.05; confidence interval [CI], 1.96‐4.77), longer average LOS (increased until 8.16 hours), and higher hospitalization charges (increased up to $1701.75) versus medium‐ and high‐volume surgeons (2–4 procedures/year; greater than/or equal to 5 procedures/year, respectively). Patients treated at hospitals with low volume of procedures (0–5/year) had significantly higher occurrence of oxygen desaturation (OR, 2.12; CI, 1.50–2.99), longer LOS (increased until almost 2 hours) and higher hospitalization charges (at least $951.50 more expensive) versus patients treated at high‐volume hospitals (greater than/or equal to 18 procedures/year).

Conclusion

Our investigation validates the hypothesis that lower volume standards (surgeon/hospital) are associated with increase of LOS following surgery to treat OSA, as well as lower surgeon volume associated with increase of mortality and hospitalization charges and lower hospital volume with occurrence of oxygen desaturation as postoperative complication.

Level of Evidence

2c. Laryngoscope, 124:320–328, 2014
Effects of asymmetric superior laryngeal nerve stimulation on glottic posture, acoustics, vibration
Authors: Chhetri Dinesh K. , Neubauer Juergen , Bergeron Jennifer L. , Sofer Elazar , Peng Kevin A. , Jamal Nausheen
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Evaluate the effects of asymmetric superior laryngeal nerve stimulation on the vibratory phase, laryngeal posture, and acoustics.

Study Design

Basic science study using an in vivo canine model.

Methods

The superior laryngeal nerves were symmetrically and asymmetrically stimulated over eight activation levels to mimic laryngeal asymmetries representing various levels of superior laryngeal nerve paresis and paralysis conditions. Glottal posture change, vocal fold speed, and vibration of these 64 distinct laryngeal‐activation conditions were evaluated by high speed video and concurrent acoustic and aerodynamic recordings. Assessments were made at phonation onset.

Results

Vibratory phase was symmetric in all symmetric activation conditions, but consistent phase asymmetry toward the vocal fold with higher superior laryngeal‐nerve activation was observed. Superior laryngeal nerve paresis and paralysis conditions had reduced vocal fold strain and fundamental frequency. Superior laryngeal nerve activation increased vocal fold closure speed, but this effect was more pronounced for the ipsilateral vocal fold. Increasing asymmetry led to aperiodic and chaotic vibration.

Conclusions

This study directly links vocal‐fold tension asymmetry with vibratory phase asymmetry, in particular the side with greater tension leads in the opening phase. The clinical observations of vocal fold lag, reduced vocal range, and aperiodic voice in superior laryngeal paresis and paralysis is also supported.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 123:3110–3116, 2013
Salivary endoscopy for idiopathic chronic sialadenitis
Authors: Vashishta Rishi , Gillespie M. Boyd
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To describe the findings and therapeutic role of salivary endoscopy for idiopathic chronic sialadenitis.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

The records of 258 patients who underwent salivary endoscopy between November 2008 and May 2012 were reviewed. Included cases presented with recurrent inflammation and swelling of a single major salivary gland, without identifiable etiology on examination and imaging.

Results

A total of 51 cases (20%) were identified. These patients had a mean age of 54.4 years (range, 23–75) and 57% were female. Mean duration of symptoms was 22.8 months (range, 1–102), with most cases (75%) involving the parotid gland. The primary imaging modalities used were ultrasound (62%) and computed tomography (31%). The most common findings on imaging included ductal dilation (42%), enlarged lymph nodes (23%), normal glandular imaging (15%), and possible sialoliths (14%). The most common findings on salivary endoscopy included stenosis (57%), strictures (27%), and inflammatory debris (18%). Occult stones were the cause of sialadenitis in only 4 (8%) cases. Outcomes included complete symptom resolution in 31 patients (61%), improved but occasional symptoms in 14 patients (27%), and no improvement in 6 patients (12%) after a mean follow‐up time of 20.0 months (range, 4–45). Excision of the involved gland was required in 2 (4%) patients.

Conclusion

Salivary endoscopy is a minimally invasive technique that is effective in the management of idiopathic chronic sialadenitis refractory to medical therapy. It provides diagnostic information in most patients and offers a therapeutic intervention with gland preservation.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 123:3016–3020, 2013
Nasopharyngeal lymphangioma in an adult: A rarity
Authors: Haksever Mehmet , Akduman Davut , Aslan Sündüs , Yazla Semih , Haksever Hülya
Published: May 2013

Lymphangiomas are rare congenital tumors of the lymphatic system, most often encountered during childhood. Although the most frequent locations for lymphangioma are the head and neck region, isolated involvement of the nasopharynx is very rare and only two cases have been reported since 1969. We report a case of a 60‐year‐old male with a nasopharyngeal mass that presented with nasal obstruction. The surgical excision of mass was performed by a combined transoral and transnasal endoscopic approach. Histopathological evaluation revealed the diagnosis as lymphangioma. After a follow‐up of 18 months the patient is free of recurrence. Laryngoscope, 123:2972–2975, 2013
Efficacy of intra‐ and extraturbinal microdebrider turbinoplasty in perennial allergic rhinitis
Authors: Lee Jae Yong
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Microdebrider‐assisted inferior turbinoplasty (MAIT) has become a popular method for relieving symptoms of allergic rhinitis and can be performed intraturbinally or extraturbinally. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the long‐term efficacy of these two methods.

Study Design

Prospective randomized study.

Methods

Sixty patients diagnosed with perennial allergic rhinitis were selected. Thirty patients were treated with intraturbinal MAIT (group 1) and 30 patients were treated with extraturbinal MAIT (group 2). Postoperative changes in nasal obstruction, rhinorrhea, sneezing, nasal itching, and postnasal drip were evaluated 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. The cross‐sectional area of the second notch and nasal cavity volume were compared at 12 months. The operation time, duration of crust formation, and postoperative bleeding were also compared.

Results

All symptoms improved significantly in both groups at 3, 6, and 12 months. However, when improvement of rhinorrhea, sneezing, and nasal itching was compared, improvement was statistically significant in group 2 at 12 months. Acoustic rhinometry demonstrated a significant increase in the cross‐sectional area of the second notch and nasal cavity volume in both groups, which did not differ significantly between the two groups at 12 months. The operation time and duration of crust formation were longer in groups 1 and 2, respectively. The incidence of postoperative bleeding was higher in group 2.

Conclusion

Although both methods showed significant improvement, extraturbinal MAIT seemed more effective for long‐term relief of allergic symptoms. However, the advantages and disadvantages of each method should be considered before choosing the surgical technique.

Level of Evidence

1b. Laryngoscope, 123:2945–2949, 2013
Embryologic innervation of the rat laryngeal musculature—a model for investigation of recurrent laryngeal nerve reinnervation
Authors: Pitman Michael J. , Berzofsky Craig E. , Alli Opeyemi , Sharma Sansar
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Optimal management of vocal fold paralysis would entail recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) reinnervation resulting in normal vocal fold motion. Unfortunately, RLN reinnervation currently results in a nonfunctional vocal fold due to synkinetic reinnervation. Therapeutic interventions that guide regenerating axons back to the appropriate muscle would prevent synkinesis and restore vocal fold and glottal function. The initial step toward developing these therapies is the elucidation of the embryologic innervation of the larynx. This study aimed to identify the age of occurrence, timing, and pattern of embryologic innervation of the rat larynx, hypothesizing that differences in these parameters exist between distinct laryngeal muscles.

Study Design

Descriptive anatomic study.

Methods

The larynx of rats aged embryologic day (E) 15, 16, 17, 19, and 21 were harvested and then sectioned. Two rats were used for each age. Sections were colabeled with neuronal class III β‐tubulin polyclonal antibody to identify the presence of axons and alexa 488 conjugate α‐bungarotoxin to identify the presence of motor endplates. The age at which axons and motor endplates were first present was noted. The position and pattern of the axons and motor endplates was recorded in relation to each other as well as the musculoskeletal anatomy of the larynx. The time at which axons appeared to innervate the medial thyroarytenoid (MTA) muscle, lateral thyroarytenoid (LTA) muscle, and the posterior cricoarytenoid (PCA) muscle was documented.

Results

Findings in the rat suggest the RLN reaches the larynx and begins branching by E15. Axons branch dorsally first and reach the PCA muscle before the other muscles. Branching toward the MTA muscle occurs only after axons have reached the LTA muscle. By E19, RLN axons have been guided to and selected their respective muscles with formation of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) in the PCA, LTA and MTA muscles, though the formation of NMJs in the MTA muscle was comparatively delayed.

Conclusions

This study describes the embryologic innervation of the rat larynx and suggests that there are distinct differences in the age of occurrence, timing, and pattern of innervation of the PCA, LTA, and MTA muscles of the rat. These findings lay the foundation for studies investigating the role of guidance cues in RLN axon guidance and the utility of these cues in the treatment of RLN injury via the stimulation of functional, nonsynkinetic reinnervation.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 123:3117–3126, 2013
Selectin blockade decreases postischemic recruitment of bone marrow stromal cells
Authors: Lawton Brian , Boyette Jennings R. , Hu Melissa , Lian Timothy S.
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Investigate the localization mechanisms of bone marrow stromal cells following transient ischemia‐reperfusion injury in a murine flap model.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

A cutaneous flap based on the inferior epigastric artery was elevated, and transient ischemia of 3.5 hours using a microvascular clamp was achieved. Fucoidan was injected intravenously 24 hours before the ischemic period. Following the period of ischemia, radiolabeled bone marrow stromal cells were injected intravenously, and radioactivity was determined postoperatively.

Results

Attenuation of the uptake of bone marrow stromal cells into postischemic tissue was observed in those mice treated with fucoidan as indicated by gamma counts measured in the flaps when compared with controls (P < . 001).

Conclusions

Decreased uptake of radiolabeled bone marrow stromal cells into postischemic tissues pretreated with fucoidan indicates selectin‐mediated bone‐marrow stromal cell recruitment in a murine cutaneous flap model.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 123:2993–2995, 2013
Three‐dimensional doppler ultrasonography in assessing nodal metastases and staging head and neck cancer
Authors: Lai Yu‐Shih , Kuo Chun‐Ying , Chen Mu‐Kuan , Chen Hui‐Chuan
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

This study built a simple prediction system by three‐dimensional (3D) Doppler ultrasonography to evaluate the metastases of cervical lymph nodes and the preoperative initial stage of head and neck cancer.

Study Design

Retrospective review of cervical lymph node ultrasound features and prospective nodal staging of head and neck cancer.

Methods

One hundred thirty‐nine suspicious cervical lymph nodes, receiving 3D Doppler ultrasonography, were used to establish a predictive model. Then nodal metastasis was initially staged from 27 patients with head and neck cancer by this model.

Results

The prediction system was constructed by major (internal matting, vascularity pattern) and minor (age ≥ 40 years, short/long ratio ≥ 0.5) sign categories. Cervical lymph node was regarded as metastasis with the presence of one major and any of the other factors. The predictive model resulted in sensitivity of 91.9%, specificity of 88.2%, and accuracy of 89.2%. Then we evaluated the initial staging of patients with head and neck cancer by this model, and the rate of correct N staging was 92.6%.

Conclusions

According to this prediction system, 3D Doppler ultrasonography definitely provides a rapid and reliable method for initial staging of head and neck cancer.

Level of Evidence

2b. Laryngoscope, 123:3037–3042, 2013
Aspirin sensitivity does not compromise quality‐of‐life outcomes in patients with samter's triad
Authors: Jang David W. , Comer Brett T. , Lachanas Vasileios A. , Kountakis Stilianos E.
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To demonstrate that quality‐of‐life outcomes after endoscopic sinus surgery are not compromised in patients with Samter's triad (asthma, nasal polyps, aspirin sensitivity) when compared to patients with eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (eCRSwP) who are not aspirin sensitive.

Study Design

Retrospective review of prospectively collected data.

Methods

Thirty‐two patients with Samter's triad were identified from a prospectively collected patient database from 2003 to 2012. Preoperative and postoperative symptom and endoscopy scores were compared to those of 37 consecutive patients with eCRSwP who were not aspirin sensitive (control). Student t test and Fisher exact test were used to examine for differences between the two groups. Symptom scores were assessed using the 20‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐20). Endoscopy findings were scored according to the Lund‐Kennedy methodology.

Results

Samter's triad patients had significantly worse disease preoperatively when compared to the control group: SNOT‐20 (31.1 vs. 22.1, P = .004), endoscopy score (10.9 vs. 7.6, P = .0005), and Lund‐Mackay computed tomography score (18.9 vs. 13.9, P = .0001). Although postoperative endoscopy scores remained worse in the Samter's triad group, postoperative SNOT‐20 scores were comparable to those of the control group at ≥3 years follow‐up (22.8 vs. 17.3, P = .43).

Conclusions

Although Samter's triad patients present with more severe disease and are more likely to undergo revision surgery, they have postoperative quality‐of‐life outcomes that are comparable to patients with eCRSwP who are not aspirin sensitive. This is the first study to utilize a disease‐specific, validated outcomes instrument in comparing Samter's triad patients with aspirin‐tolerant patients who have nasal polyposis and tissue eosinophilia.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 124:34–37, 2014
Cochlear‐facial dehiscence—A newly described entity
Authors: Blake Danielle M. , Tomovic Senja , Vazquez Alejandro , Lee Huey‐Jen , Jyung Robert W.
Published: May 2013

Dehiscence of the cochlear otic capsule has recently been described as a pathologic entity. We describe two cases of cochlear‐facial dehiscence, which are the first reported: a 69‐year‐old male who complained of hearing loss, autophony, and pulsatile tinnitus and a 41‐year‐old female who complained of left‐sided hearing loss, pulsatile tinnitus, and vertigo. In both, computed tomography (CT) showed bony dehiscence between the facial nerve and cochlea. Cochlear‐facial dehiscence is another example of otic capsule dehiscence that produces symptoms of third‐window lesions. When patients present with symptoms of third‐window lesions and CT does not show superior canal dehiscence, cochlear‐facial dehiscence should be considered. Laryngoscope, 124:283–289, 2014
Long‐term outcome of once daily nasal irrigation for the treatment of pediatric chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Pham Vinh , Sykes Kevin , Wei Julie
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Chronic rhinosinusitis(CRS) results in significant morbidity and health care expenditure. Safety and efficacy of nasal irrigation use in the treatment of pediatric CRS have been demonstrated, but long‐term outcomes are unknown. We reviewed characteristics and treatment outcomes after 6 weeks of once daily nasal irrigation in pediatric CRS based on computed tomography (CT) scans, and summarized parental reports of subsequent use of nasal irrigation for recurring symptoms

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study and cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

Review and survey of 144 pediatric CRS patients diagnosed between July 2003 and January 2012.

Results

One hundred four patients were reviewed. Mean age was 8.0 years, and 65.4% were male. Presenting symptoms included congestion (95.2%), cough (79.8%), rhinorrhea (60.6%), headache (48.1%), and fatigue (40.4%). Comorbidities included positive allergy test (50%), asthma (57.3%), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (28.2%). After 6 weeks, 57.7% of patients reported complete resolution of symptoms. Reductions in Lund–Mackay CT scores were 4.14 and 4.38 on the left and right sides, respectively (P < .001). Of the 54 parents who completed the prospective surveys, 53.7% reported using irrigation again in the past 12 months (median = 1, interquartile range = 3). Only nine patients underwent functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) after the initial 6 weeks. Patients requiring FESS were, on average, 3.6 years older than those who did not receive FESS (P = 0.0005). Median length of follow‐up was 48 months (range = 20–113). There were no significant differences in age, Lund–MacKay score changes, and symptom resolution proportions between those who completed the survey and those who did not.

Conclusions

Nasal irrigation is effective as a first‐line treatment for pediatric CRS and subsequent nasal symptoms, and reduces the need for FESS and CT imaging.

Level of Evidence

2b. Laryngoscope, 124:1000–1007, 2014
Laryngeal dystonia gravidarum: Sudden onset of adductor spasmodic dysphonia in pregnancy
Authors: Ankola Ashish , Sulica Lucian , Murry Thomas
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

The purpose of this study was to identify the presence or absence of known factors related to onset of adductor spasmodic dysphonia (ADSD) in a population with sudden onset during or after pregnancy.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Methods

A review of 350 patient records identified five patients with sudden onset of ADSD related to pregnancy. An age‐matched group with sudden onset of ADSD not related to pregnancy served as controls. All subjects completed a 20‐question survey of risk factors relevant to ADSD.

Results

The average age of onset in both groups was 31 years. Three had onset of ADSD in the postpartum period, the other two during pregnancy. Significantly increased avocational voice use was found in the pregnant group compared to the control group. There was a significant difference in the two groups regarding cumulative risk factors traditionally associated with ADSD.

Conclusions

Sudden onset of ADSD can occur in pregnancy in women with clinical profiles that differ from traditional ADSD patients.

Level of Evidence

3b Laryngoscope, 123:3127–3130, 2013
Cricothyroid muscle dysfunction impairs vocal fold vibration in unilateral vocal fold paralysis
Authors: Pei Yu‐Cheng , Fang Tuan‐Jen , Li Hsueh‐Yu , Wong Alice M. K.
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

The relevance of the cricothyroid (CT) muscle in patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP) remains controversial. To clarify the functional significance of the CT muscle in patients with UVFP, the confounding effect of the severity of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury should be taken into consideration. In the present study, quantitative laryngeal electromyography (LEMG) was used to measure the severity of paralysis of the thyroarytenoid‐lateral cricoarytenoid (TA‐LCA) muscle complex to allow the functional contribution of the CT muscle to be determined.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study performed in an otolaryngology outpatient clinic.

Methods

Thirty‐one patients with a main diagnosis of UVFP were recruited. The main outcome measures included LEMG examination, quantitative LEMG analysis of the TA‐LCA muscle complex, UVFP‐related quality‐of‐life questionnaire (Voice Outcome Survey [VOS]), voice acoustics analysis, videolaryngostroboscopy, and general quality‐of‐life questionnaire (Short Form‐36 Health Survey [SF‐36]) assessments.

Results

The vocal cord position did not differ between patients with and without CT muscle impairment. Patients with both TA‐LCA and CT paralysis showed poorer vocal fold vibration (P = .048) and higher fundamental frequency (P = .02), and the VOS and SF‐36 were both poorer compared with patients with only TA‐LCA paralysis.

Conclusions

Although the vocal cord position was not influenced by CT muscle function, coexisting CT muscle paralysis may damage the voice by impairing vocal fold vibration in UVFP patients.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 124:201–206, 2014
Radical Polymerization of MMA Co‐initiated by 2‐Phenyloxazoline
Authors: Polenz Ingmar , Schmidt Friedrich Georg , Friedrich Joachim , Tchernook Ivan , Spange Stefan
Published: May 2013

The subject of this work is the study of a new type of radical polymerization that occurs at elevated temperatures (80–100 °C) in mixtures of acrylates or (meth)acrylates and imine baes (IBA polymerization). The radical character of this polymerization is proven by the determination of copolymerization ratios and the reaction kinetics. On the basis of these facts and the hypothesis that the vinyl monomer acts as a co‐initiator, calculations reveal the concentration of the initiating species to be very low (Keq < 10−6). Furthermore, the choice of the reaction medium plays a crucial role on reaction kinetics and the average molecular weight of the resulting polymer. In combination with computational methodologies on the initiation, the multistep nature of this reaction is indicated.

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Color Indicator for Supramolecular Polymer Chemistry: Phenolphthalein‐Containing Thermo‐ and pH‐Sensitive N‐(Isopropyl)acrylamide Copolymers and β‐Cyclodextrin Complexation
Authors: Fleischmann Carolin , Ritter Helmut
Published: May 2013

The copolymerization parameters of N‐(isopropyl)acrylamide (1) and N‐(2‐hydroxy‐5‐(1‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐3‐oxo‐1,3‐dihydroisobenzofuran‐1‐yl)benzyl)acrylamide (2) are determined. For both monomers, the homoaddition proceeds slightly faster than the heteroaddition step; however, the polymer formation occurs in a statistic fashion. Copolymers of different compositions are prepared and the cloud points are determined. Thereby, a significant influence of the concentration of monomer 2 and the pH value is found. For the first time, the complexation of polymer attached phenolphthalein by β‐cyclodextrins is shown. Furthermore, it is possible to achieve a decomplexation by the addition of suitable guest molecules. Both procedures can be followed with the naked eye.

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Identification and quantification of cis and trans isomers in aminophenyl double‐decker silsesquioxanes using 1H–29Si gHMBC NMR
Authors: Schoen B.W. , Holmes D. , Lee A.
Published: May 2013

Cis and trans isomers of a series of double‐decker silsesquioxanes (DDSQ) were characterized by two‐dimensional NMR techniques. The 1H NMR spectra of these species have not previously been assigned to a degree that allows for quantification. Thus, 1H–29Si HMBC correlations were applied to facilitate 1H spectral assignment and also to confirm previous 29Si assignments for this class of silsesquioxanes. With the ability to identify all the pertinent resonances of the 1H NMR spectrum, 29Si NMR is no longer required for quantification and required only for characterization. This not only saves time and material but also provides a more accurate quantification, thus allowing for the ratio of cis and trans isomers present in each compound to be determined. A more accurate measure of the cis/trans ratio enables the investigation of its influence on the physical and chemical properties of DDSQ nanostructured materials. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Theoretical Analysis of Nitroxide‐Mediated Copolymerization of Styrene and α‐Methyl‐Styrene under Different Operating Policies and Reactor Designs
Authors: Fortunatti Cecilia , Sarmoria Claudia , Brandolin Adriana , Asteasuain Mariano
Published: May 2013

The polymerization that IUPAC terms reversible‐deactivation radical polymerization is a controlled radical polymerization technique (CRP) that allows producing polymers with tailored properties without the stringent conditions typical in ionic polymerization. A theoretical analysis is presented of the influence of operating and design conditions on the product properties for the nitroxide‐mediated copolymerization (NMP) of styrene and α‐methyl styrene. Several reactor configurations are analyzed, with different feeding policies and temperature profiles. To this end a mathematical model is developed to predict copolymer average properties and the complete bivariate MWD. The results help establishing design parameters and optimal operating policies to obtain desired copolymer microstructures.
1H NMR and hyperpolarized 13C NMR assays of pyruvate–lactate: a comparative study
Authors: Hill Deborah K. , Jamin Yann , Orton Matthew R. , Tardif Nicolas , Parkes Harold G. , Robinson Simon P. , Leach Martin O. , Chung Yuen‐Li , Eykyn Thomas R.
Published: May 2013

Pyruvate–lactate exchange is mediated by the enzyme lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and is central to the altered energy metabolism in cancer cells. The measurement of exchange kinetics using hyperpolarized 13C NMR has provided a biomarker of response to novel therapeutics. However, the observable signal is restricted to the exchanging hyperpolarized 13C pools and the endogenous pools of 12C‐labelled metabolites are invisible in these measurements. In this study, we investigated an alternative in vitro 1H NMR assay, using [3‐13C]pyruvate, and compared the measured kinetics with a hyperpolarized 13C NMR assay, using [1‐13C]pyruvate, under the same conditions in human colorectal carcinoma SW1222 cells. The apparent forward reaction rate constants (kPL) derived from the two assays showed no significant difference, and both assays had similar reproducibility (kPL = 0.506 ± 0.054 and kPL = 0.441 ± 0.090 nmol/s/106 cells; mean ± standard deviation; n = 3); 1H, 13C assays, respectively). The apparent backward reaction rate constant (kLP) could only be measured with good reproducibility using the 1H NMR assay (kLP = 0.376 ± 0.091 nmol/s/106 cells; mean ± standard deviation; n = 3). The 1H NMR assay has adequate sensitivity to measure real‐time pyruvate–lactate exchange kinetics in vitro, offering a complementary and accessible assay of apparent LDH activity. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pseudoexstrophy of the bladder diagnosed prenatally
Authors: Choi See Min , Park Taejin , Park Ji Kwon , Shin Jeong Kyu , Choi Won Jun , Lee Soon Ae , Chung Ky Hyun , Lee Jong Hak , Paik Won Young
Published: May 2013

What's already known about this topic?

When a cystic mass is seen at the base of the umbilical cord that appears to be in direct communication with the bladder, the differential diagnosis includes urachal anomaly and pseudoexstrophy of the bladder.

What does this study add?

This is the first case of pseudoexstrophy of the bladder diagnosed prenatally. This case had unique findings on prenatal imaging: a cystic mass at the base of the umbilical cord with a wide communication with the bladder that persists as gestation progress.
A retrospective study on the usage of cough and cold medications in viral respiratory tract infections in Taiwanese children
Authors: Cheng Ching‐Lan , Kao Yang Yea‐Huei , Liu Ching‐Chuan , Lee Ping‐Ing
Published: May 2013

Objective

We sought to describe the epidemiology of viral respiratory‐tract infections and patterns in prescriptions of cough and cold medications among young children who were suffering from viral respiratory tract infections (vRTIs).

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study to examine vRTI‐episode occurrence and cold‐medication utilization in outpatients in 2007 using the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) in Taiwan. One‐third of the children under 12 years of age who had at least one outpatient visit for a vRTI as randomly selected from NHIRD were included in the analysis.

Results

A total of 895 942 children had a diagnosis of vRTI (6 144 336 visits) during 2007, 58% of whom were aged 6 to 12 years, and 52% of whom were male. The mean cumulative incidence of vRTIs by ages were 5.6 in infancy, 7.1 in preschool, and 4.0 in school children. The average number of cough and cold medications without other drugs prescribed per visit was two to three. Among cough and cold medications, antihistamines for systemic use were prescribed most frequently (20%), followed by mucolytics (12%), selective beta‐2 agonists (11%), decongestants for systemic use (10%), and analgesic‐antipyretics including acetaminophen (7%) or non‐steroid anti‐inflammatory drugs (6%). There was considerable variation of prescriptions, which increased with increasing age, where the top 20 prescription accounted for only 36%, 30%, and 25% of all prescriptions in infants, preschool, and school age children, respectively.

Conclusions

A more rational use of medicines for treatment of vRTIs in children in Taiwan needs to be developed. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of individual atmospheric parameters on CPV system power, energy yield and cost of energy
Authors: Chan Ngai Lam Alvin , Brindley Helen E. , Ekins‐Daukes Nicholas John
Published: May 2013

The performance of concentrator photovoltaic systems can be characterised by the power output under reference conditions and the output energy yield under realistic solar illumination. For a range of locations, the frequency distribution of individual atmospheric parameters and their quantitative impact on power output of a concentrator photovoltaic system have been evaluated, with aerosols shown to have a substantial impact on performance at many sites. Limited knowledge of atmospheric parameters results in a difference of up to 75% in simulated energy yield over an annual period and up to 75% deviation in the expected levelised cost of energy. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Observed degradation in photovoltaic plants affected by hot‐spots
Authors: García Miguel , Marroyo Luis , Lorenzo Eduardo , Marcos Javier , Pérez Miguel
Published: May 2013

A number of findings have shown that the test procedures currently available to determine the reliability and durability of photovoltaic (PV) modules are insufficient to detect certain problems. To improve these procedures, ongoing research into the actual performance of the modules in the field is required. However, scientific literature contains but few references to field studies of defective modules. This article studies two different localized heating phenomena affecting the PV modules of two large‐scale PV plants in Spain. The first problem relates to weak solder joints whilst the second is due to micro‐cracks on the module cells. For both cases, the cause is identified, and consideration is given with regard to the effect on performance, the potential deterioration over time, and a way to detect the problems identified. The findings contained in this paper will prove to be of considerable interest to maintenance personnel at large‐scale PV plants and also to those responsible for setting module quality standards and specifications, and even the PV module manufacturers themselves. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diffusion of a Distress Management Guideline into practice
Authors: Tavernier Susan S. , Beck Susan L. , Dudley William N.
Published: May 2013

Objective

The purpose of this study was to explore system and clinician‐related barriers, and predictors for the adoption of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Distress Management Guideline (DMG) into oncology outpatient practice.

Methods

This descriptive, correlational study surveyed a national sample of oncology nurses working in an outpatient setting who completed the survey electronically or by mail.

Results

Study respondents (n = 409) were predominantly certified nurses (84%) yet largely unfamiliar with the DMG; 17% of respondents were using the DMG. Time, staff uncertainties and ambiguous accountability were the largest barriers to not assessing distress. Compared with those not using any assessment tool, those using the DMG were more comfortable discussing distress, worked as an oncology nurse longer, scored colleagues higher on valuing distress screening and had more organizational processes in place to support evidence‐based practices. Significant predictors of DMG use included higher familiarity with the DMG (OR 3.81, p < .001), lower perceived barriers (OR 0.41, p = .001), non‐profit status (OR 3.93, p = .05) and urban or rural (versus suburban) work settings (OR 04.59, p = .04; overall model chi‐square 133.25, df 12, p < .001, Nagelkerke R2 .67).

Conclusions

This study identified barriers and predictors to using the DMG, which are amenable to interventions. DMG adoption may be augmented by interventions, which increase familiarity with the guideline. Additionally, adoption of the DMG may improve through explicit articulation of the responsibilities oncology team members have in cancer‐related distress screening and management. Further studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy of such interventions and their impact on patient care outcomes. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prevalence and predictors of cancer specific distress in men with a family history of prostate cancer
Authors: McDowell M. E. , Occhipinti S. , Gardiner R. A. , Chambers S. K.
Published: May 2013

Objective

To examine prevalence and predictors of cancer‐specific distress in undiagnosed men with and without a family history of prostate cancer, and to examine the contribution of perceptions of an affected relative's cancer experience on the distress of unaffected male relatives.

Methods

Men with a first degree relative with prostate cancer (n = 207) and men without a family history (n = 239) from Australia completed a Computer Assisted Telephone Interview. Participants completed the Prostate Cancer Anxiety Subscale of the Memorial Anxiety Scale for Prostate Cancer, measures of perceived risk, and socio‐demographic information. Men with a family history provided details about their family history (number of relatives diagnosed with and dead from prostate cancer, relationship to affected relative, months since diagnosis) and reported their perceptions of their affected relative's prostate cancer experience including perceptions of threat related to the relative's diagnosis and perceived treatment phase and prognosis.

Results

Cancer‐specific distress was low for all men and there was no significant difference in the distress experienced by men with and without a family history. Regression analyses showed that for all men, cancer‐specific distress increased with urinary symptoms and decreased in those with higher education and in older participants. For men with a family history, having a relative who died from prostate cancer and perceiving greater threat from a relative's diagnosis was associated with greater cancer‐specific distress.

Conclusions

Interventions would benefit from examining appraisals of familial risk and examining prospective assessments of distress in the unaffected male relatives of men with prostate cancer over the course of the cancer trajectory. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.