bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolutionary pattern of reemerging influenza B/Victoria lineage viruses in São Paulo, Brazil, 1996–2012: Implications for vaccine composition strategy
Authors: Paiva T.M. , Benega M.A. , Silva D.B.B. , Santos K.C.O. , Cruz A.S. , Hortenci M.F. , Barbieri M.T. , Monteiro M.M. , Barbosa H.A. , Carvalhanas T.R.M.P.
Published: August 2013

Since the 1980s, 2 antigenically distinct influenza B lineages have cocirculated in the world: B/Victoria/2/87 (first appeared in the 1980s) and B/Yamagata/16/88 (became predominant in the 1990s). B/Victoria/2/87 isolates were geographically restricted to eastern Asia during 1991–2000. During 2000–2001 and 2001–2002, B/Victoria/2/87 isolates reemerged in North America, Europe, and South America, and then spread globally. During influenza virus surveillance, season 2002, an outbreak of acute respiratory illness, which quickly spread among the population, has been notified by public health authorities living in Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil. Instituto Adolfo Lutz and Secretariat of Health of São Paulo state teams initiate an investigation towards to describe the pattern of infection in this population temporally and by age and to characterize the strains by virus isolation and hemagglutination inhibition assay. The outbreak lasted approximately 10 weeks; many cases occurred between mid‐August and mid‐September. Children younger than 13 years were the most affected; the elderly were mostly immune to infection. Analysis of the clinical respiratory samples helped in identifying the B/Hong Kong/330/2001 and B/Brisbane/32/2002 subtypes—recent variants of B/Victoria/02/88, a lineage restricted to Southeast Asia until 2001. The Araraquara outbreak confirms the reemergence of the B/Victoria viruses in South America and highlights the importance of monitoring local circulating strains, especially in light of the absence of cross‐protection between antigenically distinct influenza lineages. Based on influenza virus surveillance, public health authorities worldwide should decide whether trivalent vaccines or quadrivalent vaccines (containing both influenza virus B lineages) are to be used in each country. J Med. Virol. 85:1983–1989, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
HCV viremia drives an increment of CD86 expression by myeloid dendritic cells
Authors: Malta F.M. , Bruno F.R. , Carvalho K.I. , Nastri A.C.S.S. , Kalil J. , Carrilho F.J. , Kallas E.G. , Pinho J.R.R.
Published: August 2013

The host immune response, including innate and adaptive immunity, plays a critical role in determining the outcome of viral infection. Nevertheless, little is known about the exact reasons for the failure of the host immune system in controlling hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Impairment of dendritic cells (DCs) function is probably one of the mechanisms responsible for immune evasion of HCV. In this study, the frequency and phenotype of DCs subsets were analyzed in three groups: HCV‐infected individuals who developed viral persistence (1), HCV‐infected individuals who spontaneously cleared the virus (2) and HCV‐seronegative uninfected subjects (3). The results showed that the frequency of DCs subsets was not statistically significant between groups. Plasmacytoid DCs circulating exhibited an immature phenotype characterized by low expression of CD86. On the other hand, CD86 expression in myeloid DCs was significantly higher in chronic infected individuals compared to healthy controls (P = 0.037). A positive correlation was observed between CD86+ myeloid DC (mDC) and HCV viral load (r = 0.4121, P = 0.0263). These results suggest that HCV did not have an inhibitory effect on mDC maturation and the HCV viremia drives the increase of CD86 expression in mDC. The regulation of DCs maturation and migration lies at the level of intracellular signaling. HCV can activate or block intracellular signaling pathways and alter DC function. In conclusion, the present study suggests that imbalance of DC maturation by the virus represents a mechanism of evasion of the immune system despite the fact that HCV viremia appears to exert a “stimulatory” effect on cell‐surface immune phenotype. J Med. Virol. 85:1919–1924, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reactivation of hepatitis B virus in patients with undetectable HBsAg undergoing chemotherapy for malignant lymphoma or multiple myeloma
Authors: Matsui Takeshi , Kang Jong‐Hon , Nojima Masanori , Tomonari Akiko , Aoki Hironori , Yamazaki Hajime , Yane Kei , Tsuji Kunihiko , Andoh Seisho , Andoh Sachiko , Sakai Hajime , Maemori Masayo , Maguchi Hiroyuki , Tanaka Yasuhito
Published: August 2013

Despite increasing reports of hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation in hematological malignancies, its incidence, and risk factors are still obscure. The aim of this study was to clarify the frequency and risk factors of HBV reactivation in hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) undetectable patients with malignant lymphoma or multiple myeloma, during or after chemotherapy. A total of 109 patients with undetectable HBsAg undergoing chemotherapy for malignant lymphoma or multiple myeloma were enrolled in this study. Anti‐hepatitis B surface (anti‐HBs) and anti‐hepatitis B core (anti‐HBc) were checked before treatment, and HBV DNA in sera was quantified monthly during and after chemotherapy. Out of 109 patients, 42 (38.5%) had anti‐HBs and 59 (54.1%) had anti‐HBc. Among the 59 anti‐HBc positive patients, four patients (4/59, 6.8%) showed HBV reactivation during 20.5 median follow‐up months. In all four patients with HBV reactivation, peripheral lymphocyte counts before chemotherapy were lower than those without HBV reactivation (P = 0.033). HBV reactivation occurred during and after chemotherapy containing rituximab for non‐Hodgkin lymphoma. Four patients, who had HBV reactivation, did not develop de novo hepatitis due to HBV reactivation and were able to undergo chemotherapy against malignant lymphoma as scheduled. Monitoring of HBV DNA in sera is useful for the early diagnosis of HBV reactivation, and preemptive therapy is an useful alternative to prevent hepatitis due to HBV reactivation. Patients must be monitored periodically for HBV‐DNA levels during and after chemotherapy. J Med. Virol. 85:1900–1906, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Variability of the preC/C region of hepatitis B virus genotype A from a South African cohort predominantly infected with HIV
Authors: Mayaphi Simnikiwe H. , Martin Desmond J. , Mphahlele M. Jeffrey , Blackard Jason T. , Bowyer Sheila M.
Published: August 2013

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a serious global health problem, and HBV genotype is an important determinant of disease progression and treatment outcome. The aim of this study was to assess variations of the precore/core (preC/C) region in HBV genotype A. Sequencing of the preC/C and surface (S) genes of HBV was performed on plasma samples from 20 HBV/HIV co‐infected and 5 HBV mono‐infected individuals. All preC/C study sequences clustered with subgenotype A1, except for two which clustered with subgenotype D4 reference strains. The nucleotide and amino acid variability was far higher in the preC/C region than in the S region. Mutations associated with reduction or failure of HBV e‐antigen (HBeAg) production were observed, with a preC start codon mutation being common (24%). Other mutations (e.g., P5H/L and I97L) associated with severe liver disease were also noticed, some of which were located in the major histocompatibility restricted sites. PreC/C intergenotype nucleotide divergence was >7%, while subgenotypes differed by 2.5–7%. Several study sequences were highly divergent from other African subgenotype A1 strains. This study showed that HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis B is underestimated in subgenotype A1, and also highlighted the variant South African A1 strains. The major advantage of preC/C sequencing is that it informs patient management as HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis B responds poorly to conventional interferon‐α therapy, and some guidelines treat HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis B differently from HBeAg‐positive chronic hepatitis B. These data suggest that subgenotype A1 may be more involved in severe HBV‐related diseases. J Med. Virol. 85:1883–1892, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Influence of Indian Ocean subtropical dipole on spring rainfall over China
Authors: Feng Junqiao , Yu Lejiang , Hu Dunxin
Published: August 2013

This study investigates the influence of the South Indian Ocean subtropical dipole (IOSD) on spring (March‐April‐May; MAM) rainfall over central‐eastern China (CEC) and its dynamic processes by using station observations of China, Met Office Hadley Centre SST data for the period 1951–2012 and European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) reanalysis data for the period 1958–2012. It is found that the IOSD event which peaks in the boreal winter can persist to the following spring, with strength slightly weakening. Boreal spring rainfall over CEC, i.e. the middle‐lower reaches of Yangtze River, the Yellow River valley as well as regions between them, has a significant correlation with the IOSD event. When the positive (negative) IOSD event occurs in the previous winter, the CEC is dry (wet) in the spring. One of possible mechanisms that the IOSD affects the China spring rainfall is the modulation of the meridional circulation, especially the Hadley cell in the tropic along 100–120°E. In the positive IOSD years, associated with the cold sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTA) and warm SSTA in the southeastern Indian Ocean (SEIO) and southwestern Indian Ocean, there is anomalous ascent over the equatorial Indian Ocean, whereas downward flows over the SEIO and CEC. The Hadley cell over this region intensifies. Anomalous northerly wind at 850 hPa prevails, preventing wet and warm air flow from the low latitudes, which in turn transports less moisture into CEC and favours decreased rainfall. Meanwhile, the CEC is located at the sinking region of the Hadley cell. The atmosphere is fed by low moisture content over this area, also unfavourable for the occurrence of precipitation. This paper suggests that the SSTA in the southern Indian Ocean can be a good predictor for the China spring precipitation and proposes a possible mechanism for the connection of the mid‐latitude climate variations of both hemispheres induced by air–sea interaction.
Possible influence of AAO on North Korean rainfall in August
Authors: Choi Ki‐Seon , Oh Su‐Bin , Kim Do‐Woo , Byun Hi‐Ryong
Published: August 2013

This study found a positive correlation between the August rainfall in North Korea and Antarctic Oscillation (AAO) in August. Causes of increasing rainfall in the positive AAO phase are (1) the increasing frequency of tropical cyclones that land in or affect the Korean Peninsula, (2) the reinforcement of Australian high (AH) in the Southern Hemisphere, and (3) atmospheric instability at all levels in August in North Korea. The reinforcement of AH forms an anomalous cross‐equatorial flow in the western Pacific and plays a decisive role in the northward development of the subtropical western North Pacific high (SWNPH). Furthermore, large volumes of warm and humid air are supplied to North Korea owing to this development. As a result, atmosphere in North Korea becomes unstable, and it is found that the reinforcement of anomalous warm sea surface temperature (SST) in the middle latitude of East Asia is another cause of the instability.
Antioxidant properties of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of tara (Caesalpinia spinosa) pods in vitro and in model food emulsions
Authors: Skowyra Monika , Falguera Víctor , Gallego Gabriela , Peiró Sara , Almajano María Pilar
Published: August 2013

BACKGROUND

The successful replacement of some synthetic food antioxidants by safe natural antioxidants has fostered intensive search for new vegetable sources of antioxidants. In our study the phenol and flavonoid content of extracts of tara pods was determined. The antioxidant activity was also studied by three different analytical assays: the measurement of scavenging capacity against a radical ABTS+, the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) and the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP).

RESULTS

All analyzed samples showed a good antioxidant capacity, but the use of a solution of ethanol 75% in a 1 h ultrasonic process allowed achieving the greatest quantity of phenolics (0.464 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE) g−1 dry weight (DW) ) and the highest antioxidant activity measured by the ABTS+ and ORAC methods (10.17 and 4.29 mmol L−1 Trolox equivalents (TE) g−1 DW, respectively). The best method for efficient extraction of flavonoids (3.08 mg catechin equivalent (CE) g−1 DW) was a 24 h maceration in cold water. Two extracts obtained with ethanol 75% and water were added to a model food system (oil‐in‐water emulsion) and the oxidative stability was studied during storage at 38 °C. Oxidation was monitored by determination of the peroxide value. The addition of 48 µg mL−1 ethanol extract to the emulsion delayed oxidation to the same extent as 17.8 µg mL−1 of Trolox, while water extract was only effective in the early stages of the oxidation process.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study indicate that ethanolic tara extracts may be suitable for use in food, cosmetic and nutraceutical applications. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Characterization of the volatile profiles of beer using headspace solid‐phase microextraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry
Authors: Rossi Serena , Sileoni Valeria , Perretti Giuseppe , Marconi Ombretta
Published: August 2013

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was a multivariate characterization of the volatile profile of beers. Such a characterization is timely considering the increasing worldwide consumption of beer, the continuous growth of microbreweries and the importance of volatile compounds to beer flavour. A method employing solid‐phase microextraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (SPME‐GC‐MS) was optimized and then applied to a sample set of 36 industrial and craft beers of various styles and fermentation types.

RESULTS

The volatile profiles of different beer styles is described, with particular attention paid to the volatile compounds characteristic of a spontaneously fermented lambic raspberry framboise beer. Furthermore, it was also possible to identify which specific volatile compounds are principally responsible for the differences in the volatile profiles of top‐ and bottom‐fermented beers. Moreover, a volatile fingerprint of the craft top‐fermented Italian beers was defined, as they show a very similar volatile profile. Finally, the volatile compounds that are characteristic of the bock‐style beers are described.

CONCLUSIONS

The SPME‐GC‐MS analytical method optimized in this study is suitable for characterizing the volatile fingerprint of different beers, especially on the basis of the kind of fermentation (top, bottom or spontaneous), the method of production and the style of the beer. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Antimicrobial effect of bayberry leaf extract for the preservation of large yellow croaker (Pseudosciaena crocea)
Authors: Su Hongming , Chen Wei , Fu Shalu , Wu Chu , Li Kai , Huang Zhaoyi , Wu Tao , Li Jianrong
Published: August 2013

BACKGROUND

Chemical preservatives have been widely used to keep large yellow croaker fresh. However, the potential harm to human health cannot be ignored. This study was undertaken to investigate the antimicrobial effect of bayberry leaf extract and to evaluate the efficacy of this natural product on the preservation of large yellow croaker.

RESULTS

The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of bayberry leaf extract against bacteria were 1.0 mg mL−1 for Micrococcus luteus, 0.5 mg mL−1 for Staphylococcus aureus, 0.25 mg mL−1 for Escherichia coli, 0.5 mg mL−1 for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 0.0625 mg mL−1 for Vibrio parahaemolyticus, and 0.03125 mg mL−1 for Listeria monocytogenes, respectively. This result was confirmed by the diameters of inhibition zone (DIZ) assay. Further studies showed that the bacterial growth was significantly retarded when large yellow croaker was pretreated with bayberry leaf extract (2 g L−1) compared to that in the control group. Moreover, the generation of total volatile basic nitrogenous compounds (TVB‐N), ATP degradation products (K‐value) and thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS) were significantly reduced compared to that in the control group.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrated that the shelf life of large yellow croaker can be extended when supplemented with bayberry leaf extract, which might have implications for natural preservatives. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Breeding for seedless grapes using Chinese wild Vitis spp. II. In vitro embryo rescue and plant development
Authors: Ji Wei , Wang Yuejin
Published: August 2013

BACKGROUND

Since 1982, the embryo rescue technique has been widely applied to embryo germination of stenospermic grapes in cross‐breeding programmes. This project aimed to: (1) use embryos to breed new seedless cultivars of Vitis vinifera as the female parents utilising wild Chinese Vitis spp. as the male parents; and (2) develop an efficient method for in vitro embryo rescue and plant development.

RESULTS

Among the different genotypes, the productions of hybrid plants were significantly different, ranged from 21.1% (‘Ruby Seedless’ × ‘Beichun’) to only 1.1% (‘Pink Seedless’ × ‘Beichun’), except for the combinations from which no surviving seedlings were obtained. We collected hybridisation fruits from 28 June to 3 August, and obtained their best sampling times described within days after flowering. The highest rates of embryo formation (24.3%) and plant development (91.4%) were found when ovules of ‘Ruby Seedless’ were cultured in MM4 + 500 mg L−1 mashed banana.

CONCLUSION

Seven new hybrids of V. vinifera with wild Chinese Vitis spp. were obtained. As a result of early nuclear‐free character identification, 17 seedless grape lines were obtained. An efficient system of seedless grape breeding through embryo rescue was also established. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Diagnosis and treatment of traumatic optic neuropathy with carotid artery cavernous segment pseudoaneurysm
Authors: Kang Zhuang , Li Jingjia , Zou Yan , Yang Qintai
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To summarize our experience in diagnosis of carotid cavernous segment pseudoaneurysm in patients with traumatic optic neuropathy, and to make recommendations for treatment.

Study design

Retrospective study.

Methods

Clinical data of 133 cases with traumatic optic neuropathy (TON) were reviewed. The diagnosis and treatment of four cases with carotid cavernous segment pseudoaneurysm (PSA) were analyzed.

Results

The incidence of traumatic optic neuropathy with pseudoaneurysm for this group of patients was 3.01% (4/133). Preliminary screening was performed with vascular‐enhanced computed tomography (CT) scan, and was further confirmed by digital subtraction angiography (DSA). Among the four cases with pseudoaneurysm, three cases were successfully treated with vascular embolization. In one of the three cases, coil embolization was employed; and in the other two cases stent embolization was performed. The pseudoaneurysm disappeared after embolization, and nosebleeds subsided without significant complications. All four patients did not undergo nasal endoscopic optic nerve decompression. There was no recurrence of nose bleeding after embolization in the following 1 to 12 months, and in one case the patient's vision improved from no light perception to perceiving hand movement.

Conclusions

There is a possibility of fatal epistaxis for traumatic optic neuropathy with carotid artery cavernous segment pseudoaneurysm. Endoscopic optic nerve decompression treatment (EOND) is not suitable for these cases; instead, it is recommended that patients with traumatic optic neuropathy go through vascular‐enhanced computed tomography screening. Suspected cases should be diagnosed by digital subtraction angiography and be treated by embolization in a timely manner, with stent vascular interventional embolization being the ideal choice.

Level of Evidence

4.Laryngoscope, 123:2591–2597, 2013
Development of a new method using narrow band imaging for taste assessment
Authors: Shimada Tetsuaki , Kamada Hideo , Hoshino Ryuu , Okamiya Tomofumi , Takahashi Katsumasa , Chikamatsu Kazuaki
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

The observation of fungiform papillae is a useful objective taste examination. The purpose of this study is to develop a new method using narrow band imaging for assessment of taste function.

Study Design

Using a narrow band imaging endoscope, we assessed the number and blood vessel morphology of fungiform papillae and compared with the gustatory threshold by the filter paper disc test.

Methods

The number of fungiform papillae was counted in 20 mm2, and blood vessels in fungiform papillae were evaluated morphologically by a five‐point scoring system in 11 patients who had undergone middle ear surgery. The filter taste disc test was performed simultaneously to obtain the gustatory threshold and was compared with the number and blood vessel morphology of fungiform papillae.

Results

Using a narrow band imaging endoscope, we could clearly detect not only fungiform papillae but also blood vessel morphology. There was a significant correlation between the values of the number of papillae and blood vessel morphology. Moreover, these two parameters revealed a significant inverse correlation with gustatory function. As expected, both parameters on the affected side were significant lower than those on the unaffected side in patients.

Conclusions

The assessment of fungiform papillae using narrow band imaging endoscopy is easy, highly sensitive, and reliable; therefore, it might be useful as an objective examination of taste function.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 123:2405–2410, 2013
Four‐dimensional computed tomographic angiography of an arteriovenous fistula in the neck
Authors: Fujimura Shintaro , Hori Ryusuke , Hamaguchi Kiyomi , Okanoue Yusuke , Wakizaka Hitomi , Shoji Kazuhiko
Published: August 2013

Arteriovenous fistula (AVF), a type of vascular anomaly, is a relatively uncommon disease characterized by abnormal connections between the arterial and venous systems. Recently, remarkable advances in four‐dimensional computed tomographic angiography (4D‐CTA) have enabled detailed analysis of the hemodynamic features of vascular anomalies, which cannot be achieved by conventional imaging modalities. We report a case of AVF in a 59‐year‐old female presenting as a right neck mass. Using reconstructed animations from various viewing angles, 4D‐CTA could clearly visualize not only a mass but the feeding artery and draining vein from the mass. 4D‐CTA was useful for the diagnosis of AVF and to determine the surgical strategy preoperatively. Laryngoscope, 123:2723–2727, 2013
Sleep quality and disease severity in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Alt Jeremiah A. , Smith Timothy L. , Mace Jess C. , Soler Zachary M.
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate sleep quality in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) using a validated outcome measure and to compare measures of CRS disease severity with sleep dysfunction.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional evaluation of a multi‐center cohort.

Methods

According to the 2007 Adult Sinusitis Guidelines, patients with CRS were prospectively enrolled from four academic, tertiary care centers across North America. Each subject completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) instrument, in addition to CRS‐specific measures of quality‐of‐life (QOL), endoscopy, computed tomography (CT), and olfaction. Patient demographics, comorbid conditions, and clinical measures of disease severity were compared between patients with “good” (PSQI; ≤5) and “poor” (PSQI; > 5) sleep quality.

Results

Patients (n = 268) reported a mean PSQI score of 9.4 (range: 0–21). Seventy‐five percent of patients reported PSQI scores above the traditional cutoff, indicating poor sleep quality. Patients with poor sleep quality were found to have significantly worse QOL scores on both the Rhinosinusitis Disability Index (P < 0.001) and 22‐item Sinonasal Outcome Test (P < 0.001). No significant differences in average endoscopy, CT, or olfactory function scores were found between patients with good or poor sleep quality. Tobacco smokers reported worse average PSQI total scores compared to nonsmokers (P = 0.030). Patients reporting poor sleep were more likely to have a history of depression, even after controlling for gender (P = 0.020).

Conclusion

The majority of patients with CRS have a poor quality of sleep, as measured by the PSQI survey. Poor sleep quality is significantly associated with CRS‐specific QOL, gender, comorbid depression, and tobacco use, but not CT score or endoscopy grade.

Level of Evidence

2b. Laryngoscope, 123:2364–2370, 2013
Functional regeneration of laryngeal muscle using bone marrow–derived stromal cells
Authors: Kanemaru Shin‐ichi , Kitani Yoshiharu , Ohno Satoshi , Shigemoto Taeko , Kojima Tsuyoshi , Ishikawa Seiji , Mizuta Masanobu , Hirano Shigeru , Nakamura Tatsuo , Dezawa Mari
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To investigate the functional efficiency of skeletal muscles regenerated by transplantation of bone marrow–derived stromal cells (BSCs) or induced‐muscle progenitor cells (IMCs) as assessed in the canine posterior cricoarytenoid (PCA) muscle injury model.

Study Design

Prospective animal experiment with control.

Methods

We performed BSC/IMC transplantation into injured canine PCA muscles. We investigated the capability of auto‐ and allo‐BSC/IMC transplantation using a gelatin sponge scaffold to promote functional regeneration of PCA muscles. Transplantation was assessed by fiberscopic analysis of vocal fold movement. We also examined the histologic changes of the transplanted regions. As a control, a gelatin sponge scaffold without additional cells was transplanted into the injured area.

Results

Auto‐BSC/IMC transplantation effectively restored vocal fold movement, whereas scaffold alone or allo‐BSC/IMC transplantation did not. Histologic examination revealed that (in cases of good recovery) muscle regeneration occurred in the area of cell transplantation, and scar formation without muscle regeneration was observed under control conditions. The dogs with autologous transplantation of BSC had faster functional recovery than did dogs treated with autologous transplantation of IMC.

Conclusions

Functional efficiency was shown in skeletal muscles regenerated using BSCs and IMPs. Motor function recovery was observed using autologous transplantation of BSCs and IMCs. Minimal functional recovery was observed using allogeneic transplantation of these cells.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 123:2728–2734, 2013
Primary care and upfront computed tomography scanning in the diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis: A cost‐based decision analysis
Authors: Leung Randy M. , Chandra Rakesh K. , Kern Robert C. , Conley David B. , Tan Bruce K.
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To diagnose chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), current guidelines require either endoscopic or computed tomography (CT) findings of sinus disease. To a primary care physician, this means a referral to an otolaryngologist or obtaining a CT scan. Unfortunately, the sensitivity of endoscopy for detecting CRS is low, and examination by the Otolaryngologist may not yield a definitive diagnosis. This leaves CT scanning. However, this is contradicted by recommendations to limit CT scanning for only preoperative planning purposes due to cost concerns. This study aims to provide an evidence‐based cost‐efficient recommendation for primary care practice.

Study Design

Health care economics‐based decision analysis model.

Methods

A cost‐based decision analysis based on literature‐reported probabilities and Medicare costs was constructed for two scenarios: 1) primary care physicians who are comfortable initiating first‐line treatment for chronic rhinosinusitis, rhinitis, and atypical facial pain; and 2) primary care physicians who are less comfortable with medical management of these conditions.

Results

Under both scenarios and the extremes of sensitivity analysis, upfront CT scanning provides cost‐efficient diagnosis over presuming a diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis. Primary care physicians who attempt first‐line treatment can expect $503 (range = $296–$761) saved per patient. Meanwhile, primary care physicians who prefer to refer may expect $326 (range = $299–$353) saved per patient.

Conclusions

In all scenarios, confirming diagnosis with CT scanning prior to treatment or referral is more cost‐efficient than presuming a diagnosis of CRS based on symptoms alone.

Level of Evidence

2c. Laryngoscope, 124:12–18, 2014
Olfactory training is helpful in postinfectious olfactory loss: A randomized, controlled, multicenter study
Authors: Damm Michael , Pikart Louisa K. , Reimann Heike , Burkert Silke , Göktas Önder , Haxel Boris , Frey Sabine , Charalampakis Ioannis , Beule Achim , Renner Berthold , Hummel Thomas , Hüttenbrink Karl‐Bernd
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of olfactory training (OT) on olfactory function in patients with persistent postinfectious olfactory dysfunction (PIOD).

Study Design

Randomized, single‐blind, controlled, multicenter crossover study.

Methods

Twelve tertiary university medical centers participated. Investigations were performed at three visits (baseline, after 18 weeks, and after 36 weeks), including only subjects with PIOD of <24‐months duration. At each visit, participants received detailed assessment of olfactory function. Seventy subjects trained with high concentrations of four odors for 18 weeks; the other half (n = 74) trained with low concentrations of odors. For the following 18 weeks this regimen was switched.

Results

After 18 weeks, olfactory function improved in the high‐training group in 18 of 70 participants (26%), whereas only 11/74 improved in the low‐training group (15%). In subjects with a duration of olfactory dysfunction of <12 months, olfactory function improved in 15/24 participants (63%) of the high‐training group and in 6/31 participants (19%) of the low‐training group (P = .03).

Conclusions

OT improves PIOD, and the use of odors at higher concentrations is beneficial to improvement. OT is a safe procedure and appears to be particularly useful in patients who start OT within 12 months after the onset of the disorder. OT is the first successful therapy regime in patients with PIOD.

Level of Evidence

1b. Laryngoscope, 124:826–831, 2014
Patient‐perceived outcome after sialendoscopy using the glasgow benefit inventory
Authors: Ianovski Ilia , Morton Randall P. , Ahmad Zahoor
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Sialendoscopy is a technique for investigating and managing obstructive salivary disease that avoids risks associated with the more invasive sialoadenectomy and other open surgery techniques. To date, surgeon‐based outcomes have been reported, but only one report of patient‐oriented outcomes has appeared in the literature. The objective of this study was to review our experience after introducing sialendoscopy to New Zealand and report the patient‐perceived benefit.

Study Design

A prospective observational study of all sialendoscopic procedures performed in the only sialendoscopy‐practicing center in New Zealand between June 2010 and June 2012.

Methods

Clinical and epidemiological data of all patients were recorded. Sialendoscopic findings, complications, and outcomes were noted. The Glasgow Benefit Inventory questionnaire was administered to the patients at their follow‐up.

Results

Fifty‐four patients underwent a total of 66 sialendoscopic procedures, involving 44 parotid and 22 submandibular glands. There was a complete symptom resolution in 54 procedures (82%). Sialolith removal was successful in 67% of cases, with postsialendoscopy symptom resolution in 86% of sialolithiasis cases. Symptoms resolved in 81% of cases with ductal stenosis. The overall mean Glasgow Benefit Inventory score was +31, which compares very favorably with other otolaryngology procedures.

Conclusions

This study shows a substantial positive patient‐perceived benefit of sialendoscopy for both sialolith‐ and stenosis‐based pathology. The overall rate of symptom resolution is comparable to international literature.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 124:869–874, 2014
Quality‐of‐life scores compared to objective measures of swallowing after oropharyngeal chemoradiation
Authors: Kendall Katherine A. , Kosek Steven R. , Tanner Kristine
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To compare objective measures of swallowing function with patient reports of swallowing‐related quality of life 1 year after treatment of oropharyngeal cancer with chemoradiation therapy.

Study Design

Patients seen for follow‐up at least 1 year after treatment of oropharyngeal carcinoma with chemoradiation therapy were sequentially approached and asked to participate in the study.

Methods

Maximum pharyngeal constriction, hyoid elevation, upper esophageal sphincter opening size, and bolus pharyngeal transit time were measured from modified barium swallowing studies in a group of 31 patients at least 1 year after chemoradiation therapy for the treatment of oropharyngeal carcinoma. Measures were made for a liquid 1‐mL, 3‐mL, and 20‐mL bolus. Objective measure results were compared to scores from the MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory and The University of Washington Swallowing Quality of Life Questionnaire results from the same patients.

Results

No strong correlation was identified between any of the objective measures of swallowing physiology and quality‐of‐life scores.

Conclusions

Patient perception of the impact of swallowing function on quality of life does not correlate well with actual physiologic functioning.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 124:682–687, 2014
Predictors of clinical outcome after tracheotomy in critically ill obese patients
Authors: Byrd J. Kenneth , Ranasinghe Viran J. , Day Kristine E. , Wolf Bethany J. , Lentsch Eric J.
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To identify patient factors associated with outcomes in critically ill obese patients requiring tracheotomy.

Study Design

Single‐institution, retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Charts were reviewed for inpatients admitted to an intensive care unit from 2007 to 2010 with International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision codes of obesity or morbid obesity and tracheotomy. Variables collected in the dataset include subject age, ethnicity, gender, body mass index, tracheotomy type, patient outcome, chief diagnosis, and medical comorbid conditions. The primary outcomes of interest were tracheotomy type and patient outcome at the time of hospital discharge. Logistic regression models were developed for the probability of each patient outcome using univariate and multivariate models.

Results

One hundred two patients met inclusion criteria. The most common outcome was tracheostomy dependence (49%). Increased mortality was independently significantly associated with pulmonary hypertension (P = .019) and African American ethnicity (P = .045). Increased tracheostomy dependence was significantly associated with obstructive sleep apnea (P = .030). Increased decannulation was significantly associated with percutaneous tracheotomy (P = .016) and Caucasian ethnicity (P < .001).

Conclusions

Obese patients in the intensive care unit who undergo tracheotomy have a high likelihood of remaining tracheostomy dependent at the time of discharge from the hospital. The factors most commonly found to be significantly associated with poor outcomes were open tracheotomy, African American ethnicity, obstructive sleep apnea, and pulmonary hypertension.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 124:1118–1122, 2014
Respiratory viral infection in the chronic persistent phase of chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Liao Bo , Hu Chun‐Yan , Liu Tao , Liu Zheng
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

The role of respiratory viral infection in the pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) has been rarely studied and remains controversial. The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence of respiratory viruses in the chronic status of CRS.

Study Design

A case‐control prospective study.

Methods

Fifty‐three control subjects, and 67 CRS with nasal polyp (CRSwNP) and 61 CRS without nasal polyp (CRSsNP) patients without signs of acute viral infection were enrolled. Epithelial cells scraped from the middle nasal meatus were tested for the nucleic acid of nine common respiratory viruses using polymerase chain reaction assay. The clinical disease severity was compared between subjects with and without viral infection.

Results

The overall detection rate of viral infection was 75.47%, 68.66%, and 73.77% in controls, CRSwNP, and CRSsNP, respectively, and no significant difference among studied groups was observed. There was no significant difference in detection rate of any specific individual virus or multiple viruses among the groups studied either. Visual analog scale scores of symptoms, computed tomography scores, or endoscope scores did not show obvious difference between subjects with and without viral infection.

Conclusions

Although a high frequency of viral infection could be observed in the middle nasal meatus, no increase of frequency of viral infection could be demonstrated in chronic persistent phase of CRSsNP and CRSwNP. The contribution of the interaction between viral infection and host immunity to the pathogenesis of CRS remains to be determined.

Level of Evidence

3b. Laryngoscope, 124:832–837, 2014
Sexual Dimorphism of Proximal Hand Phalanges
Authors: Karakostis F. A. , Zorba E. , Moraitis K.
Published: August 2013

Research on sexual dimorphism in proximal hand phalanges contributes to the assessment of the biological profile of an individual from human skeletal remains. Furthermore, it provides fundamental information for studying the origins of manual dexterity. The anatomy of proximal hand phalanges has been widely described, and the occurrence of sexual dimorphism has been reported in studies concentrating on sex determination. However, there is limited research focusing on the level of sexual dimorphism. Therefore, the aim of this study is to examine the degree of sexual dimorphism in proximal hand phalanges. A total of 661 bones from 160 adult individuals (86 men and 74 women) of the Athens collection were studied. Seven measurements were taken involving the maximum length and diaphyseal and epiphyseal widths. Descriptive statistics,t‐values and percentages of sexual dimorphism were estimated. The results of this study indicate that, in almost all dimensions measured, men have larger proximal hand phalanges than women. Proximal hand phalanges present a high degree of sexual dimorphism (reached 24.78%). The phalanges of the left side demonstrate a higher degree of sexual dimorphism. The proximal phalanges of the thumb proved to be the most sexually dimorphic bones in the material. The minimum sexual dimorphism observed was in the maximum lengths of phalanges, whereas the most sexually dimorphic measurement is the medio‐lateral width at midshaft. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Obesity susceptibility loci and uncontrolled eating, emotional eating and cognitive restraint behaviors in men and women
Authors: Cornelis Marilyn C. , Rimm Eric B. , Curhan Gary C. , Kraft Peter , Hunter David J. , Hu Frank B. , van Dam Rob M.
Published: August 2013

Objective

Many confirmed genetic loci for obesity are expressed in regions of the brain that regulate energy intake and reward‐seeking behavior. Whether these loci contribute to the development of specific eating behaviors has not been investigated. The relationship between a genetic susceptibility to obesity and cognitive restraint, uncontrolled and emotional eating was examined.

Methods

Eating behavior and body mass index (BMI) were determined by questionnaires for 1471 men and 2381 women from two US cohorts. Genotypes were extracted from genome‐wide scans and a genetic‐risk score (GRS) derived from 32 obesity‐loci was calculated.

Results

The GRS was positively associated with emotional and uncontrolled eating (P<0.002). In exploratory analysis, BMI‐increasing variants of MTCH2, TNNI3K, and ZC3H4 were positively associated with emotional eating and those of TNNI3K and ZC3H4 were positively associated with uncontrolled eating. The BMI‐increasing variant of FTO was positively and those of LRP1B and TFAP2B were inversely associated with cognitive restraint. These associations for single SNPs were independent of BMI but were not significant after multiple‐testing correction.

Conclusions

An overall genetic susceptibility to obesity may also extend to eating behaviors. The link between specific loci and obesity may be mediated by eating behavior but larger studies are warranted to confirm these results.
Childbearing is not associated with young women's long‐term obesity risk
Authors: Robinson Whitney R. , Cheng Mariah M. , Hoggatt Katherine J. , Stürmer Til , Siega‐Riz Anna M.
Published: August 2013

Objective

Contemporary childbearing is associated with greater gestational weight gain and postpartum weight retention than in previous decades, potentially leading to a more pronounced effect of childbearing on women's long‐term obesity risk. Previous work on the association of childbearing with women's long‐term obesity risk mostly examined births in the 1970s and 1980s and produced mixed results.

The association of childbearing and obesity incidence in a diverse, contemporary sample of 2731 US women was estimated.

Methods

Propensity‐score (PS) matching was used for confounding control when estimating the effect of incident parity (1996‐2001) on 7‐year incident obesity (BMI≥30 kg/m2) (2001‐2008).

Results

In the sample, 19.3% of parous women became obese, whereas 16.1% of unmatched nulliparous women did. After PS matching without and with replacement, the differences in obesity incidence were, respectively, 0.0 percentage points (ppts) (95% CI: −4.7 to 4.7) and 0.9 ppts (95% CI: −4.9 to 6.7). Results were similar in analyses of prevalent parity and obesity in 2008 (n = 6601) conducted to explore possible selection bias.

Conclusions

These results imply that, in contemporary US parous women in their late 20s and early 30s, childbearing may not increase obesity incidence.
Responsive and patterned polymer brushes
Authors: Welch M. Elizabeth , Ober Christopher K.
Published: August 2013

While polymer brush systems continue to grow in popularity, so does their complexity and sophistication. Advances in polymerization and specific functionalization methods have led to novel applications in diverse research fields. The marriage of top‐down lithography with bottom‐up brush processing is becoming increasingly important in the development and progress of nanotechnology. The aim of this review is to examine different approaches taken to generate tailored polymer brush systems through surface‐initiated polymerizations as well as patterning techniques. Detaching polymer brushes to create free‐standing membranes is also highlighted and discussed in terms of methods and characterization. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2013, 51, 1457–1472
Synthesis and characterization of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane hybrid co‐crosslinked poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) hydrogels
Authors: Chen Yi , Xiong Yuanqin , Peng Chang , Liu Wenyong , Peng Yue , Xu Weijian
Published: August 2013

Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane hybrid temperature and pH double‐responsive hydrogels with organic–inorganic co‐crosslinked networks are synthesized by in situ, free‐radical polymerization of N‐isopropylacrylamide and dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate in the presence of both organic crosslinker N,N′‐methylenebis(acrylamide) (BIS) and inorganic crosslinker octavinyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (OvPOSS) in tetrahydrofuran media. The resulting hydrogels (OR‐OvP gels) display obvious temperature and pH double responsiveness, OvPOSS particles dispersed in polymer make a dominant effect on the properties of gels. With the increase of OvPOSS, the aggregation of particles on nano‐ or microscale happens and causes a considerable change on the properties of gels, such as the lower critical solution temperature and better compression strength. Specially, the interconnected microporous structure of gels ascribed to the microphase separation results in faster deswelling rate, which makes the gel become attractive. Besides, the crosslink by BIS intensifies the heterogeneity of gels significantly, which could also be used to adjust the properties of gels. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2013, 51, 1494–1504
Reexamining X‐mode suppression and fine structure in artificial E region field‐aligned plasma density irregularities
Authors: Miceli R. J. , Hysell D. L. , Munk J. , McCarrick M. , Huba J. D.
Published: August 2013

Artificial field‐aligned plasma density irregularities (FAIs) were generated in the E region of the ionosphere above the High Frequency Active Auroral Research Program facility during campaigns in May and August of 2012 and observed using a 30 MHz coherent scatter radar imager in Homer, Alaska. The purpose of this ionospheric modification experiment was to measure the threshold pump power required to excite thermal parametric instabilities by O‐mode heating and to investigate the suppression of the FAIs by simultaneous X‐mode heating. We find that the threshold pump power for irregularity excitation was consistent with theoretical predictions and increased by approximately a factor of 2 when X‐mode heating was present. A modified version of the Another Model of the Ionosphere (SAMI2) ionospheric model was used to simulate the threshold experiments and suggested that the increase was entirely due to enhanced D region absorption associated with X‐mode heating. Additionally, a remarkable degree of fine structure possibly caused by natural gradient drift instability in the heater‐modified volume was observed in experiments performed during geomagnetically active conditions.
Day‐to‐day variability of foEs in the equatorial ionosphere
Authors: Somoye E. O. , Akala A. O. , Adeniji‐Adele R. A. , Onori E. O. , Ogwala A. , Karimu A. O.
Published: August 2013

Diurnal, seasonal, and solar cycle effects of the variability (VR) of the critical frequency of sporadic E layer (foEsq) are investigated at Ibadan (7.4°N, 3.9°E, 6°S dip) in the African sector during high solar activity (HSA) year of 1958 (Rz = 181), moderate solar activity (MSA) year of 1973 (Rz = 30), and low solar activity (LSA) year of 1965 (Rz = 17). The diurnal variation of foEsq VR is characterized by post‐midnight (32%–78%) and pre‐midnight (20%–84%) peaks during high solar activity (HSA), the only epoch of the three showing these peaks and a diurnal trend. While the daytime foEsq VRs of the three epochs show no seasonal trend, pre‐midnight and post‐midnight, the foEsq VRs during HSA and LSA show seasonal trends. Similarity is observed in the curve of reciprocal of percentage occurrence of Esq and that of foEsq VR, indicating inverse variation of percentage occurrence and foEsq VR. Longitudinal influence is observed in the diurnal variation of HSA and MSA July foEsq VR of Ibadan (7.4°N, 3.9°E, 6°S dip) in the African sector, which is in the neighborhood of the Greenwich Meridian (GM); Singapore (1.3°N, 108.3°E, 17.6°S dip) in the Asian sector, east of GM; and Huancayo (12°S, 284.7°E, 1.90 dip) in the American sector, west of GM.