Distribution of the Na,K-ATPase α Subunit in the Rat Spiral Ganglion and Organ of Corti

Processing of sound in the cochlea involves both afferent and efferent innervation. The Na,K-ATPase (NKA) is essential for cells that maintain hyperpolarized membrane potentials and sodium and potassium concentration gradients. Heterogeneity of NKA subunit expression is one mechanism that tailors physiology to particular cellular demands. Therefore, to provide insight into molecular differences that distinguish the various innervation pathways in the cochlea, we performed a variety of double labeling experiments with antibodies against three of the α isoforms of the NKA (NKAα1–3) and markers identifying particular subsets of neurons or supporting cells in whole mount preparations of the organ of Corti and spiral ganglion. We found that the NKAα3 is abundantly expressed within the membranes of the spiral ganglion somata, the type I afferent terminals contacting the inner hair cells, and the medial efferent terminals contacting the outer hair cells. We also found expression of the NKAα1 in the supporting cells that neighbor the inner hair cells and express the glutamate transporter GLAST. These findings suggest that both the NKAα1 and NKAα3 are poised to play an essential role in the regulation of the type I afferent synapses, the medial efferent synapses, and also glutamate transport from the afferent-inner hair cell synapse.     

Professional dysphonia and its risk factors in the material of the outpatient clinic of the Department of Otolaryngology, Medical Academy of Białystok

Occurrence of professional dysphonia was analysed in a group of 309 patients treated in the Phoniatric Outpatient Clinic, Department of Otolaryngology, Medical Academy in Bia?ystok through the period of 1999-2001. In a group of professional voice users female teachers of primary schools and lower secondary schools predominated. Obtained results were compared with those from a group of 65 persons of other occupations. In the both groups other harmful factors affecting the voice organ were excluded. The clinical assessment included subjective and objective laryngological examination using videolaryngostroboscopy. The clinical material was evaluated in a view of functional and organic disorders of the voice organ. Early occurrence and aggravation of functional changes in the larynx was recorded in non professional voice users in the course of their seniority. In professional patients organic changes were more common and occurred earlier than functional disorders. Severity of dysphonia was related to the larynx pathology, especially of a functional character.     

Measuring the density of the fissula antefenestram and the section of the basal turn of the cochlea: Are they useful in the radiological diagnosis of otosclerosis?

IntroductionThe role of objective parameters in terms of improvement of the accuracy of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of the temporal bone in the diagnosis of otosclerosis remains unclear.ObjectivesTo investigate the relationship between the density of the fissula antefenestram (FAF) and of the width of the transversal section of the basal turn of the cochlea (BTC), and the diagnosis of otosclerosis.MethodsThis is a retrospective study in which preoperative HRCT data from ears of patients submitted to stapedotomy due to otosclerosis (case group) were evaluated. For the control group, normal hearing ears having undergone HRCT for other purposes were included. Case and control HRCT images were objectively assessed by an experienced blinded radiologist. During this evaluation, measurements of the relative radiological density of the FAF and of the transversal section of the BTC were obtained. The results were compared between the groups. Also, a receiver operating characteristic curve was created and the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated for each variable. Significance level was set at .05.Results40 ears were included in each group. Case ears presented reduced values for the relative radiological density on the FAF (p-value<0.0001). Moreover, ears with otosclerosis (p-value: 0.022) presented lower transversal section of the BTC. The AUC for these variables reached 0.929 and 0.646, respectively.ConclusionsOtosclerotic ears present reduced radiological density on the FAF and narrower BTC. The relative density of the FAF also shows a great diagnostic power in the context of this disease.     

Lymphatic malformation of the epiglottis—A case report and review of the literature

A 2-year-old male with a new onset dysphagia was diagnosed with a huge multicystic lesion of the epiglottis. The patient was urgently operated and several cysts were resected using cold steel instruments under microscopic view. Histopathology was consistent with lymphatic malformation. Surgery resulted in total symptoms resolution and on 1 year follow-up the patient remained free of recurrence.This is the first report of epiglottic lymphatic malformation.     

Epidemiological features of cancers of the oral cavity,oropharynx, hypopharynx and larynx cancer in Réunion Island

IntroductionThis study had two objectives: firstly, to identify and compare characteristics of cancer of the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx and larynx in Réunion Island, a tropical French overseas territory in the southern hemisphere; and secondly, to discuss how incidence of these cancers is presented in the international literature.Material and methodA retrospective study included 599 patients diagnosed with cancer of the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx or larynx between 2009 and 2013 in Réunion Island. Demographic characteristics and data on alcohol consumption, smoking habits and HPV infection were analyzed. Standardized incidences were calculated for the worldwide population for both genders.ResultsSex ratio was 7.7 and mean age was 60 years. Cancer consisted of squamous cell carcinoma in 99.1% of patients. Three hundred and forty over 375 patients (81.25%) showed alcohol abuse; 309/359 (86.1%) were smokers; 31/184 (16%) had HPV infection. On the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) anatomic classification, the incidence of “other pharynx” locations was 9.3/100,000 for men and 0.7/100,000 for women, and incidence of “larynx” locations was 6.4/100,000 for men and 0.4/100,000 for women.ConclusionRéunion Island features some particularities in terms of incidence: women are less than half as likely as in Metropolitan France to develop any type of cancer, whereas incidence in males is among highest in France. The presentation of results in cancer registries could be improved in line with everyday practice in head and neck surgery.     

Methods of larynx phoniatory function measurement in the Poznań University Department of Ear, Throat, Nose and Larynx Diseases between 1922 and 1939

INTRODUCTION: Indirect laryngoscopy development and progress initiated in 1854 by the autolaryngoscopy of the famous singing voice teacher Manuel Garcia in ENT speciality is connected with the names of L. Tuerck and J.N. Czermak, the last one being called the father of laryngoscopy. In 1878 M. Oertel used for the first time stroboscopic light in indirect laryngoscopy. The perception of stroboscopic picture is based on the Talbot principle. OBJECT OF THE PAPER: Two apparatuses used for the evaluation of larynx function in the Poznań ENT Department before the II World War are presented:--Polylaryngoscop enabling evaluation the indirect laryngoscopy simultaneously by several individuals.--Mechanical stroboscop of Oertel type with perforated disc moved by electrical engine. CONCLUSION: For 130 years laryngostroboscopy belongs to the basic examination methods of larynx phonatory function.     

A Randomized, Double-blinded, Open Label Study of the Efficacy and Safety of Cefcapene Pivoxil and Amoxicillin·Clavulanate in Acute Presumed Bacterial Rhinosinusitis

Objectives

Currently established first line therapy of acute (presumed bacterial) rhinosinusitis (ARS) consists of 10 to 14 days of oral amoxicillin or cephalosporins. This study compared the clinical efficacy and tolerance of cefcapene pivoxil (CP) and amoxicillin-clavulanate (AMC) in patients with ARS.

Methods

A randomized, open labeled, double-blinded trial of ARS patients over 15 years of age was performed. Patients diagnosed with ARS received paranasal sinus X-rays and nasal endoscopies and 2 weeks of either CP (150 mg, 3 times/ day) or AMC (625 mg, amoxicillin 500 mg, 3 times/day). All patients revisited the clinic on days 7, 14, and 28 for evaluation of changes in symptoms, endoscopy, and monitoring of any adverse reactions. Demographics, clinical characteristics and drug efficacy were also compared between the two groups.

Results

Among the 60 initially enrolled patients (CP 30, AMC 30), 5 patients in the CP group and 6 in the AMC group were excluded due to poor compliance. There were no significant differences in demographic data including age, sex, initial signs and symptoms, endoscopic and X-ray findings between the two groups. Rates of improvement after 2 weeks were 96% and 95.8% in the CP and AMC group, respectively. Sinus symptoms were changed significantly after 2 and 4 weeks, however, there was no difference between groups (P=0.41). The most common adverse reaction was gastrointestinal complication, diarrhea occurred in 1 patient in the CP group and 6 in the AMC group (P=0.04).

Conclusion

CP and AMC were both effective in treating ARS. The difference of treatment outcome was not found between the two groups, however, gastrointestinal complications were less prevalent in the CP group.     

20 years of joint research on the carcinoma of the larynx conducted by teams from clinics in Crakow, Poznań, Warsaw and Lublin

A twenty-year scientific cooperation has been discussed (1979-1998) between four clinics for laryngology at Medical Universities in Cracow, Poznań, Warsaw and Lublin. The results of research concerning the epidemiology, diagnostics and treatment of the carcinoma of the larynx are presented.     

Localisation and direction of spread in oral and oropharyngeal cancer in the material of Head and Neck Oncological Surgery Department, University of Medical Sciences in Poznań

The directions of tumor spread are determined by the anatomy of the affected organ. The vessel, nerve anatomy and presence of structures, that may potentially constitute a barrier for spread out of the tumor are of crucial importance. The aim of this paper was to presentation of the spreading directions of oral cavity and oropharyngeal squamous cell cancer based on the own experience. Material include 163 patients surgically treated between 2003-2003 in Department of ENT, Head and Neck Oncological Surgery Department in Poznań. The examination was conducted on the base of retrospective analysis of ambulatory charts and the hospital files. Results: 163 (90%) patients were operated for primary oral and oropharyngeal cancer. The primary localization included in the palatine tonsil (82 patients), trunk of the tongue (48 patients) and floor of the mouth (20 patients) were predominated. The spread directions included: floor of the mouth (36) soft palate (35), base of tongue (33), hypopharynx (20) and trunk of tongue (16). The 31 crossed the midline, 27 infiltrated the tonsillopalatine angle, 9 retromolar area and 3 the mucosa of the cheek. Knowledge of anatomy facility in clinical evaluation of spreading malignancy. It helps in proper qualification to surgery or radiotherapy.     

Older adults’ performance on the speech,spatial, and qualities of hearing scale (SSQ): Test-retest reliability and a comparison of interview and self-administration methods

Abstract

The purposes of the study were to examine the test-retest properties of the speech, spatial, and qualities of hearing scale (SSQ) and to determine if the method of test administration affected these properties. Four groups of 40 older adult participants completed the SSQ twice at an interval of about a half year, using either the same or different administration methods at the two test times. The SSQ was administered using an interview method and/or it was self-administered and then returned by mail. Although the method of test administration did not systematically affect scores on the SSQ, the highest test-retest correlation (r = 0.83) was observed using the interview method at both test times, making it the best choice for the purpose of demonstrating the effectiveness of interventions. The other three combinations of dual-administration in this study also provided reliable results and may be preferable because the self-administration method is less time-consuming and labour-intensive. In conclusion, both the interview and self-administration methods are recommended, but with the best choice depending on the goals of the tester.

Sumario

El propósito de este estudio fue examinar las propiedades test-retest de la escala de audición del habla, espacial y de cualidades (SSQ) y determinar si el método de administración de la prueba afecta esas propiedades. Cuatro grupos de 40 participantes adultos mayores completaron el SSQ dos veces con un intervalo de cerca de medio año, usando (tanto) el mismo o un diferente método de administración en los dos tiempos de la prueba. El SSQ se administró usando un método de entrevista y/o por la auto aplicación y luego, enviado por correo. No obstante que el método de administración de la prueba no afectó sistemáticamente las puntuaciones del SSQ, la mayor correlación test-retest (r = 0.83) se observó usando el método de entrevista en los dos tiempos de la prueba, haciendo de él la mejor selección para demostrar la efectividad de las intervenciones. Las otras tres combinaciones de la administración doble en este estudio, dieron resultados confiables y pueden ser preferibles, porque el método de auto aplicación consume menos tiempo y requiere menor trabajo intensivo. En conclusión, se recomiendan tanto los métodos de entrevista como el de auto aplicación, pero la mejor selección dependerá de las metas del examinador.     

The causes of the development of cicatrical stenosis of the larynx and trachea in the patients presenting with Guillain-Barré syndrome

The problem of rehabilitation of the patients presenting with post-intubation stenosis of the larynx and trachea remains unresolved despite the development of new methods for the diagnostics and treatment of this condition. One of the indications for long-term artificial lung ventilation is the severe form of Guillaine-Barret syndrome associated with paralysis of breathing muscles, development of bulbar symptoms, and disturbances of trophic process in the skin and mucous membranes. However, prolonged (mean 26 days) artificial lung ventilation may result in the formation of many-layer stenosis of the larynx and trachea whereas disturbed trophic processes in the skin and mucous membranes coupled to inadequate innervation complicate the postoperative conditions of the patients and promote restenosis of the tracheal lumen.     

Solitary fibrous tumor of the orbit—two cases and a review of the literature

Solitary fibrous tumors of the orbit (SFT) are mesenchymal lesions that can develop either as malignant or benign neoplasias. We describe the histological features leading to the diagnosis in two females and review the current literature. Diagnosis of SFT only can be performed by histological examination, since clinical signs and radiological features are not specific enough. Even a malignant or benign course cannot be predicted, since clinical and radiological features do not correlate with histological signs of malignancy and vice versa. Radical resection is the treatment of choice, since no other treatment option has been proven to be efficient.     

Speech, vocabulary, and the education of children using cochlear implants: oral or total communication?

This study examines the relationship between the teaching method, oral or total communication, used at children's schools and children's consonant-production accuracy and vocabulary development over time. Children who participated in the study (N = 147) demonstrated profound sensorineural hearing loss and had used cochlear implants for between 6 months and 10 years. Educational programs that used an oral communication (OC) approach focused on the development of spoken language, whereas educational programs that used a total communication (TC) approach focused on the development of language using both signed and spoken language. Using Hierarchical Linear Modeling (HLM) we compared the consonant-production accuracy, receptive spoken vocabulary, and expressive spoken and/or signed vocabulary skills, over time, of children who were enrolled in schools that used either OC or TC approaches, while controlling for a number of variables. These variables included age at implantation, preoperative aided speech detection thresholds, type of cochlear implant device used, and whether a complete or incomplete active electrode array was implanted. The results of this study indicated that as they used their implants the children demonstrated improved consonant-production accuracy and expressive and receptive vocabulary over time, regardless of whether their school employed a TC or OC teaching method. Furthermore, there appeared to be a complex relationship among children's performance with the cochlear implant, age at implantation, and communication/teaching strategy employed by the school. Controlling for all variables, children in OC programs demonstrated, on average, superior consonant-production accuracy, with significantly greater rates of improvement in consonant-production accuracy scores over time compared to children in TC programs. However, there was no significant difference between OC and TC groups in performance or rate of growth in consonant-production accuracy when children received their implants before the age of 5 years. There was no significant difference between the OC and TC groups in receptive spoken vocabulary scores or in rate of improvement over time. However, children in the TC group achieved significantly higher receptive spoken vocabulary scores than children in the OC group if they received their implant before the age of 5 years. The TC group demonstrated superior scores and rates of growth on the expressive vocabulary measure (spoken and/or signed) when compared to the OC group if they received their implants during their preschool or early elementary school years. There was no significant difference if the children received their implants during middle elementary school. Regardless of whether children were in the OC or TC group, children who received their implants during preschool demonstrated stronger performance, on average, on all measures over time than children who received their implants during their elementary school years. The results of this study suggest that children may benefit from using cochlear implants regardless of the communication strategy/teaching approach employed by their school program and that other considerations, such as the age at which children receive implants, are more important. Implications and future research needs are discussed.