Medicine by Alexandros G. Sfakianakis,Anapafseos 5 Agios Nikolaos 72100 Crete Greece,00302841026182,00306932607174,alsfakia@gmail.com,

Arachnoid cysts of the internal auditory canal: An underappreciated entity? Omer J. Ungar MD  Madeline...

Arachnoid cysts of the internal auditory canal: An underappreciated entity?Omer J. Ungar MD  Madeline Franck MS  Joseph B. Nadol MD  Felipe Santos MDFirst published: 08 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27601The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.Read the full textePDFPDFTOOLS SHAREAbstractObjectives/HypothesisTo describe the histopathologic findings and clinical presentation of arachnoid cysts (ACs) within the human temporal bone.Study...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

1m

Vertical head impulse and caloric are complementary but react opposite to Meniere's disease hydrops...

Vertical head impulse and caloric are complementary but react opposite to Meniere's disease hydropsMunehisa Fukushima MD, PhD  Ryohei Oya MD  Kengo Nozaki MD  Hirotaka Eguchi MD  Shiro Akahani MD, PhD  Hidenori Inohara MD, PhD  Noriaki Takeda MD, PhDFirst published: 04 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27580m.f. conceived and designed the experiments and wrote the article. m.f., r.o., k.n., h.e., and s.a. performed the experiments. m.f., h.i., and n.t. analyzed the data.This research was...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

1m

Transoral rigid 70‐degree laryngoscopy in a pediatric voice clinic Julina Ongkasuwan MD  Danielle Devore...

Transoral rigid 70‐degree laryngoscopy in a pediatric voice clinicJulina Ongkasuwan MD  Danielle Devore CCC‐SLP  Sarah Hollas CCC‐SLP  Jennifer Yan MDFirst published: 13 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27706This work was presented at the American Laryngological Association meeting at the Combined Otolaryngology Spring Meetings in National Harbor, Maryland, U.S.A., April 18–22, 2018.The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.Read the full...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

1m

Common practices in botulinum toxin injection for spasmodic dysphonia treatment: A national survey...

Common practices in botulinum toxin injection for spasmodic dysphonia treatment: A national surveyHagit Shoffel‐Havakuk MD  David E. Rosow MD  Christian X. Lava BSc  Edie R. Hapner PhD  Michael M. Johns III MDFirst published: 24 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27696Presented as a poster at the American Laryngological Association Annual Meeting at the Combined Otolaryngological Spring Meetings, National Harbor, Maryland, U.S.A., April 18–22, 2018.The authors have no funding, financial relationships,...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

2m

Safety of outpatient unilateral medialization laryngoplasty across two academic institutions Steven...

Safety of outpatient unilateral medialization laryngoplasty across two academic institutionsSteven M. Chau MD  Christine M. Kim MD  Andrew Vahabzadeh‐Hagh MD  Sunil P. Verma MD  Dinesh K. Chhetri MDFirst published: 26 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27688Editor's Note: This Manuscript was accepted for publication October 22, 2018.Presented at the 139th Annual Meeting of the American Laryngological Association, National Harbor, Maryland, U.S.A., April 18–22, 2018.The authors have no funding,...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

2m

Type I thyroplasty: A safe outpatient procedure Attapon Junlapan MD  C. Kwang Sung MD, MS  Edward J....

Type I thyroplasty: A safe outpatient procedureAttapon Junlapan MD  C. Kwang Sung MD, MS  Edward J. Damrose MDFirst published: 24 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27686Presented at the 139th Annual Meeting of the American Laryngological Association at the Combined Otolaryngological Spring Meetings, National Harbor, Maryland, U.S.A., April 18–22, 2018.The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.Read the full textePDFPDFTOOLS SHAREAbstractObjectives/HypothesisOvernight...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

2m

Systemic safety of serial intralesional steroid injection for subglottic stenosis Jonathan Woliansky...

Systemic safety of serial intralesional steroid injection for subglottic stenosisJonathan Woliansky MBBS(Hons)  Debra Phyland PhD, FSPAA  Paul Paddle MBBS(Hons), FRACSFirst published: 24 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27673 Cited by: 1The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.Read the full textePDFPDFTOOLS SHAREAbstractObjectives/HypothesisSerial intralesional steroid injection (SILSI) has recently been proposed as an effective scar‐modifying...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

2m

A separation of innate and learned vocal behaviors defines the symptomatology of spasmodic dysphonia...

A separation of innate and learned vocal behaviors defines the symptomatology of spasmodic dysphoniaSamantha Guiry BA  Alexis Worthley BA  Kristina Simonyan MD, PhDFirst published: 24 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27617 Cited by: 1This study was supported by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, the National Institutes of Health (grants R01DC011805 and R01NS088160 to k.s.). The authors have no other funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

3m

Curcumin gum formulation for prevention of oral cavity head and neck squamous cell carcinoma Lindsay...

Curcumin gum formulation for prevention of oral cavity head and neck squamous cell carcinomaLindsay Boven MD  Sean P. Holmes MD  Brian Latimer MS  Kenneth McMartin PhD  Xiaohui Ma MD Tara Moore‐Medlin BS  Alok R. Khandelwal PhD  Jerry McLarty PhD  Cherie‐Ann O. Nathan MD, FACSFirst published: 13 November 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27542This project was selected as the winner of the Southern Section Lester A. Brown, MD Resident Research Award at the Triological Society Combined Sections Meeting,...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

3m

The Impact of a Stepwise Approach to Primary Tumor Detection in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Neck...

The Impact of a Stepwise Approach to Primary Tumor Detection in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Neck With Unknown PrimaryJohn F. Ryan BS  Kevin M. Motz MD  Lisa M. Rooper MD  Wojciech K. Mydlarz MD  Harry Quon MD Christine G. Gourin MD, MPH  Marietta Tan MD  David W. Eisele MD  Carole Fakhry MD, MPHFirst published: 22 November 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27625 Cited by: 1The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.Read the full textePDFPDFTOOLS...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

3m

Glottic exposure for transoral laser microsurgery: Proposal of a mini‐version of the laryngoscore Fabiola...

Glottic exposure for transoral laser microsurgery: Proposal of a mini‐version of the laryngoscoreFabiola Incandela MD  Alberto Paderno MD  Francesco Missale MD  Andrea Laborai MD  Marta Filauro MD  Francesco Mora MD  Francesca Del Bon MD  Cesare Piazza MD  Giorgio Peretti MDFirst published: 08 November 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27525 Cited by: 1Editor's Note: This Manuscript was accepted for publication on July 31, 2018.The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

3m

Differences in video head impulse test gains from right versus left or outward versus inward head impulses...

Differences in video head impulse test gains from right versus left or outward versus inward head impulsesJun Woo Park MD  Tae Su Kim MD  Eun Hye Cha MS  Byung Chul Kang MD  Hong Ju Park MD, PhDFirst published: 04 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27607The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.Read the full textePDFPDFTOOLS SHAREAbstractObjectiveTo investigate the effect of the right/left and outward/inward head impulses on video head impulse...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

4m

Lubricin/proteoglycan 4 detected in vocal folds of humans and five other mammals James B. Kobler PhD ...

Lubricin/proteoglycan 4 detected in vocal folds of humans and five other mammalsJames B. Kobler PhD  Monica A. Tynan BS  Steven M. Zeitels MD  Andrew S. Liss PhD  Maria T. Gianatasio BS  Alyssa A. Morin MSc  Tannin A. Schmidt PhDFirst published: 06 January 2019 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27783Editor's Note: This Manuscript was accepted for publication on December 10, 2018.Presented at the American Bronchoesophageal Association Annual Meeting at the Combined Otolaryngology Spring Meetings, National...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

6m

arcinoma: survival and follow‐up Sophie Gorostis MD  Thibaut Raguin MD  Olivier Schneegans MD  Catherine...

arcinoma: survival and follow‐upSophie Gorostis MD  Thibaut Raguin MD  Olivier Schneegans MD  Catherine Takeda MD  Christian Debry MD, PhD  Agnès Dupret‐Bories MD, PhDFirst published: 07 January 2019 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27664Editor's Note: This Manuscript was accepted for publication on October 12, 2018.The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.SECTIONSePDFPDFTOOLS SHAREAbstractObjectives/HypothesisThe aim was to study the survival of incidental...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

6m

Multilevel Palate and Tongue Base Surgical Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Systematic Review...

Multilevel Palate and Tongue Base Surgical Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysisGraeme B. Mulholland MD, FRCSC  Caroline C. Jeffery MD, FRCSC  Hedyeh Ziai MD  Varinder Hans BSc  Hadi Seikaly MD, FRCSC  Kenny P. Pang FRCSEd, FRCSI(OTO)  Brian W. Rotenberg MD, FRCSCFirst published: 25 March 2019 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27597This work was supported by the Alberta SPOR SUPPORT Unit at the University of Alberta for statistical work on the meta‐analysis.The authors...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

6m

Safety and efficacy of Early injection laryngoplasty in pediatric patients Caitlin Bertelsen MD  Lia...

Safety and efficacy of Early injection laryngoplasty in pediatric patientsCaitlin Bertelsen MD  Lia Jacobson MD, MS  Beth Osterbauer MPH, CCRP  Christian Hochstim MD, PhDFirst published: 23 October 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27436Presented as an oral presentation at the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngologists Annual Meeting, Washington, DC, U.S.A., April 21, 2018.The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.Read the full textePDFPDFTOOLS...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

7m

Mucocele formation following laryngeal cleft injection C. Burton Wood MD  Alexis K. Rieber MD  Edward...

Mucocele formation following laryngeal cleft injectionC. Burton Wood MD  Alexis K. Rieber MD  Edward B. Penn MDFirst published: 19 November 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27306The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.Read the full textePDFPDFTOOLS SHAREAbstractA 12‐month‐old male underwent injection laryngoplasty for dysphagia associated with a deep interarytenoid notch. He subsequently developed a large postcricoid mucocele requiring revision...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

7m

Vestibular atelectasis

Vestibular atelectasis: Decoding pressure and sound‐induced nystagmus with bilateral vestibulopathySinisa Maslovara MD, PhD  Silva Butkovic‐Soldo MD, PhD  Ivana Pajic‐Matic MD, PhD  Anamarija Sestak MDFirst published: 13 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27724All authors undertook conceptual thinking around the article's focus, interpretation of data, discussion formulation, and the write‐up. All authors revised and approved the final manuscript. The authors assert that all procedures contributing...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

7m

Otosyphilis: Resurgence of an Old Disease Hailey Theeuwen BS  Mark Whipple MD, SM, FACS  Jamie R. Litvack...

Otosyphilis: Resurgence of an Old DiseaseHailey Theeuwen BS  Mark Whipple MD, SM, FACS  Jamie R. Litvack MD, MS, FARSFirst published: 28 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27635Presented as an oral presentation at the Combined Otolaryngology Spring Meeting, National Harbor, Maryland, U.S.A., April 20, 2018.The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.Institutional review board (IRB) approval was obtained from the University of Washington (IRB...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

8m

Radial shockwave therapy for male erectile rejuvenation in a dermatology and/or medical aesthetic practice...

Radial shockwave therapy for male erectile rejuvenation in a dermatology and/or medical aesthetic practiceDavid Goldberg MD, JD, FAAD  Anneke Andriessen PhD  Michael Gold MD, FAADFirst published: 12 June 2019 https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.13022Funding information : This work was supported by unrestricted educational grant from Zimmer.Read the full textePDFPDFTOOLS SHAREAbstractIntroductionErectile dysfunction is defined as the inability to achieve and maintain an erection to satisfactorily complete...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

11m

Photodynamic therapy for severe facial acne vulgaris with 5% 5‐aminolevulinic acid vs 10% 5‐aminolevulinic...

Photodynamic therapy for severe facial acne vulgaris with 5% 5‐aminolevulinic acid vs 10% 5‐aminolevulinic acid: A split‐face randomized controlled studyJing Zhang MD  Xiaohui Zhang MD  Ya He MD  Xiaoyan Wu MD  Jiamin Huang MD  Huaiqiu Huang MD, PhD  Chun Lu MD, PhDFirst published: 12 June 2019 https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.13038Jing Zhang and Xiaohui Zhang are contributed equally to this work.Read the full textePDFPDFTOOLS SHAREAbstractBackgroundPhotodynamic therapy (PDT) with 5‐aminolevulinic acid...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

12m

Evaluation of serum level of omentin‐1 in females with hirsutism Mohammed Z. Kenawi MD  Essam M. Akl...

Evaluation of serum level of omentin‐1 in females with hirsutismMohammed Z. Kenawi MD  Essam M. Akl MD  Jehan H. Sabry MD  Sara T. Mostafa MDFirst published: 13 June 2019 https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.13043This study was done in Dermatology, Venereology & Andrology, Clinical Pathology and Obstetrics & Gynecology Departments, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha City, Egypt.Read the full textePDFPDFTOOLS SHAREAbstractBackgroundHirsutism is a common clinical condition encountered in...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

12m

Endodontology

Endodontology: The Road AheadV Gopikrishna, Nandini Suresh, Usha Carounanidy, Sathya Narayanan, Ajay Logani, Vasudev Ballal, Jojo Kottoor, Saumya ParasharEndodontology 2019 31(1):1-1An in vivo double-blind randomized controlled study comparing the postoperative pain in single sitting root canal treatment under bupivacaine versus lignocaine used as a local anesthetic agentSumita A Bhagwat, Anacleta Heredia, Leena V PadhyeEndodontology 2019 31(1):2-8Aim: This in vivo double-blind randomized control...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

12m

Antifibrotic effect of mitomycin‐C on human vocal cord fibroblasts Diána Szabó MD, PhD  Dávid Kovács...

Antifibrotic effect of mitomycin‐C on human vocal cord fibroblastsDiána Szabó MD, PhD  Dávid Kovács PhD  Valéria Endrész PhD  Nóra Igaz MSc  Kitti Jenovai MSc Gabriella Spengler PhD  László Tiszlavicz MD, PhD  József Molnár MD, DSc … See all authorsFirst published: 07 January 2019 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27657 Cited by: 1This study received support from the National Research, Development and Innovation Office‐NKFIH (GINOP‐2.3.2‐15‐2016‐00040).The authors have no funding, financial relationships,...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

14m

Automated Quantification of Vocal Fold Motion in a Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Injury Mouse Model Megan...

Automated Quantification of Vocal Fold Motion in a Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Injury Mouse ModelMegan M. Haney DVM  Ali Hamad MS  Emily Leary PhD  Filiz Bunyak PhD  Teresa E. Lever PhDFirst published: 26 November 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27609Presented at the 121st Triological Society Annual Meeting at the Combined Otolaryngology Spring Meetings, National Harbor, Maryland, U.S.A., April 18–22, 2018.This work was funded by the University of Missouri Coulter Translational Partnership Program...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

14m

Excessive inflammation portends complications: Wound cytokines and head and neck surgery outcomes Amy...

Excessive inflammation portends complications: Wound cytokines and head and neck surgery outcomesAmy Anne D. Lassig MD, MS, FACS  Bruce R. Lindgren MS  Ridwan Itabiyi BS  Anne M. Joseph MD, MPH  Kalpna Gupta PhDFirst published: 09 January 2019 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27796The authors gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Triological Society for its generous funding of this work.The authors have no other funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.Read...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

14m

Measurement reliability of phonation threshold pressure in pediatric subjects Matthew R. Hoffman MD,...

Measurement reliability of phonation threshold pressure in pediatric subjectsMatthew R. Hoffman MD, PhD  Austin J. Scholp BS  Calvin D. Hedberg BS  Jim R. Lamb BS  Maia N. Braden MS, CCC‐SLP  J. Scott McMurray MD  Jack J. Jiang MD, PhDFirst published: 08 November 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27418 Cited by: 1Editor's Note: This Manuscript was accepted for publication on June 4, 2018.Presented as a poster at the American Broncho‐Esophagological Association Annual Meeting, National Harbor, Maryland,...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

16m

A pilot study assessing clinic value in pediatric pharyngeal dysphagia: The OPPS/cost method Steven...

A pilot study assessing clinic value in pediatric pharyngeal dysphagia: The OPPS/cost methodSteven Coppess JD, MBA  Jennifer Soares MD  Bianca K. Frogner PhD  Kimberley DeMarre MS, CCC‐SLP  Amy Faherty MS, CCC‐SLP  Jennifer Hoang AAS  Mahek Shah MD … See all authorsFirst published: 04 October 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27552Presented as a podium presentation at the American Broncho‐Esophagological Association Annual Spring Meeting, National Harbor, Maryland, U.S.A., April 19, 2018. This article...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

16m

Acute inflammatory response to contrast agent aspiration and its mechanisms in the rat lung Rumi Ueha...

Acute inflammatory response to contrast agent aspiration and its mechanisms in the rat lungRumi Ueha MD, PhD  Nogah Nativ‐Zeltzer PhD  Taku Sato MD  Takao Goto MD  Takaharu Nito MD, PhD  Peter C Belafsky MD, MPH, PhD  Tatsuya Yamasoba MD, PhDFirst published: 22 November 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27663 Cited by: 1Editor's Note: This Manuscript was accepted for publication on October 12, 2018.r.u. and t.s. developed the concept, designed and performed the experiments, and analyzed the data....

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

16m

Acute inflammatory response to contrast agent aspiration and its mechanisms in the rat lung Rumi...

Acute inflammatory response to contrast agent aspiration and its mechanisms in the rat lungRumi Ueha MD, PhD  Nogah Nativ‐Zeltzer PhD  Taku Sato MD  Takao Goto MD  Takaharu Nito MD, PhD  Peter C Belafsky MD, MPH, PhD  Tatsuya Yamasoba MD, PhDFirst published: 22 November 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27663 Cited by: 1Editor's Note: This Manuscript was accepted for publication on October 12, 2018.r.u. and t.s. developed the concept, designed and performed the experiments, and analyzed the data. t.g.developed...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

17m

Pharyngobasilar fascia as a landmark in endoscopic skull base surgery: The triangulation technique...

Pharyngobasilar fascia as a landmark in endoscopic skull base surgery: The triangulation techniqueDiego A. Servian MD  André Beer‐Furlan MD  Lucas Ramos Lima MD  Alaa S. Montaser MD  Matias Gomez Galarce MD  Ricardo L. Carrau MD  Daniel M. Prevedello MDFirst published: 25 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27608

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

17m

Asymptomatic radiographic sinonasal inflammation does not affect pituitary surgery outcomes Edward...

Asymptomatic radiographic sinonasal inflammation does not affect pituitary surgery outcomesEdward C. Kuan MD, MBA  Shruthi K. Rereddy MD  Neil N. Patel BS  Ivy W. Maina BA  Vasiliki Triantafillou BA  Michael A. Kohanski MD, PhD  Charles C.L. Tong MD … See all authorsFirst published: 05 March 2019 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27893Editor's Note: This Manuscript was accepted for publication on February 5, 2019.Presented as an oral presentation at the 2018 American Rhinologic Society Annual Meeting...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

18m

The epidemiology of autologous tissue grafting in primary and revision rhinoplasty Linda N. Lee MD ...

The epidemiology of autologous tissue grafting in primary and revision rhinoplastyLinda N. Lee MD  Olivia Quatela BS  Neil Bhattacharyya MD, FACSFirst published: 08 November 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27551This work was performed at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (l.n.l., o.q.) and Brigham and Women's Hospital (n.b.), Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A.n.b. is a consultant for IntersectENT, Inc. and Entellus, Inc.The authors have no other funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

18m

Improvement in nasal obstruction and quality of life after septorhinoplasty and turbinate surgery Alisa...

Improvement in nasal obstruction and quality of life after septorhinoplasty and turbinate surgeryAlisa Yamasaki MD  Patricia A. Levesque BA  Benjamin S. Bleier MD  Nicolas Y. Busaba MD  Stacey T. Gray MD  Eric H. Holbrook MD  Ahmad R. Sedaghat MD, PhD  Robin W. Lindsay MDFirst published: 27 February 2019 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27859Presented at the 2018 Triological Society Combined Sections Meeting, Scottsdale, Arizona, U.S.A., January 18–20, 2018.The authors have no funding, financial relationships,...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

18m

Implication of Fusobacterium necrophorum in recurrence of peritonsillar abscess S. Ahmed Ali MD  Kevin...

Implication of Fusobacterium necrophorum in recurrence of peritonsillar abscessS. Ahmed Ali MD  Kevin J. Kovatch MD  Josh Smith BS  Emily L. Bellile MS  John E. Hanks MD  Paul T. Hoff MDFirst published: 24 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27675Presented at the Triological Society–Combined Sections Meeting, Coronado, California, U.S.A. January 24–26, 2019.k.j.k. is supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) grant T32 DC005356. The authors have no other funding, financial relationships,...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

19m

Impact of Head and Neck Cancer Treatment on Survivors' Mealtime Experience Karen M. K. Chan PhD  Herman...

Impact of Head and Neck Cancer Treatment on Survivors' Mealtime ExperienceKaren M. K. Chan PhD  Herman K. W. Chan BSc  Jerry Y. L. Siu BSc  Dai Pu BSc  Rebecca L. Nund PhD Elizabeth C. Ward PhDFirst published: 04 October 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27501 Cited by: 1This study was partially supported by the Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research (201311159014) and the General Research Fund, University Research Committee, Hong Kong (17606015).The authors have no other funding, financial relationships,...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

19m

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma metastasis to the parotid region lymph nodes Larry L. Myers MD, FACS ...

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma metastasis to the parotid region lymph nodesLarry L. Myers MD, FACS  Chul Ahn PhDFirst published: 16 November 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27534The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.Read the full textePDFPDFTOOLS SHAREAbstractObjectiveTo determine the effect on survival of periauricular region cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (cSCC) metastasizing to parotid region and cervical lymph nodes.MethodsFrom May...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

20m

Robotic versus conventional neck dissection: A systematic review and meta‐analysis Daniel C. Sukato...

Robotic versus conventional neck dissection: A systematic review and meta‐analysisDaniel C. Sukato MD  Daniel P. Ballard MD  Jason M. Abramowitz MD  Richard M. Rosenfeld MD, MPH Stefan Mlot MDFirst published: 16 October 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27533The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.Read the full textePDFPDFTOOLS SHAREAbstractObjectiveThe aim of this systematic review is to compare the perioperative outcomes of robotic versus conventional...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

20m

When Should Pediatric Septoplasty Be Performed for Nasal Airway Obstruction? Natalie Justicz MD  ...

When Should Pediatric Septoplasty Be Performed for Nasal Airway Obstruction?Natalie Justicz MD  Sukgi Choi MD, MBAFirst published: 04 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27602The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.SECTIONSPDFTOOLS SHAREBACKGROUNDHistorically, otolaryngologists have been concerned about the potential detrimental effects of pediatric nasal surgery on the nasoseptal growth process. Septal cartilage is important for the development...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

23m

Is routine genetic testing warranted in head and neck paragangliomas? Nidhi Gupta MD   Scott E....

Is routine genetic testing warranted in head and neck paragangliomas?Nidhi Gupta MD  Scott E. Strome MD  Kyle M. Hatten MDFirst published: 27 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27656S.E.S. is a cofounder, consultant, and stockholder in Gliknik Inc., a biotechnology company, and receives royalties for intellectual property related to B7‐H1 (PD‐L1), licensed by the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine to third parties. S.E.S. receives research support from Pfizer and Gliknik through sponsored research...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

25m

Multiple bioabsorbable corticosteroid‐eluting stent placement with associated skull base injury Dennis...

Multiple bioabsorbable corticosteroid‐eluting stent placement with associated skull base injuryDennis M. Tang MD  Christopher R. Roxbury MD  Raj Sindwani MD  Varun R. Kshettry MD  Pablos Recinos MD  Troy D. Woodard MDFirst published: 30 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27659Institution where work was performed: Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.Dr. Troy D. Woodard is a consultant for Intersect ENT (Menlo Park, CA). In addition, Dr. Troy D. Woodard is a consultant for Acclarent (Irvine,...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

26m

The Role of Free Tissue Transfer in the Management of Chronic Frontal Sinus Osteomyelitis Ryan A. Rimmer...

The Role of Free Tissue Transfer in the Management of Chronic Frontal Sinus OsteomyelitisRyan A. Rimmer MD  Alexander N. Duffy BS  Alexander M. Knops BA  Mindy R. Rabinowitz MD  Ian J. Koszewski MD  Marc R. Rosen MD  Timothy Ortlip MD  Ryan N. Heffelfinger MD … See all authorsFirst published: 14 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27669The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.Read the full textePDFPDFTOOLS SHAREAbstractObjectives/HypothesisChronic...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

26m

Construct validity of a low‐cost medium‐fidelity endoscopic sinus surgery simulation model Yuki Yoshiyasu...

Construct validity of a low‐cost medium‐fidelity endoscopic sinus surgery simulation modelYuki Yoshiyasu BS  Daniel R. Chang MD  Leon Bunegin BS  Ryan P. Lin BS  James K. Aden PhD  Thomas J. Prihoda PhD  Erik K. Weitzel MD  Kevin C. McMains MD  Sonya Malekzadeh MD … See all authorsFirst published: 21 December 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27748p.g.c. is a consultant for Stryker. The authors have no other funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.Read the full textePDFPDFTOOLS...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

26m

Factors of success of low‐dose macrolides in chronic sinusitis: Systematic review and meta‐analysis...

Factors of success of low‐dose macrolides in chronic sinusitis: Systematic review and meta‐analysisKachorn Seresirikachorn MD  Nichana Suwanparin  Chanyanuch Srisunthornphanich  Wirach Chitsuthipakorn MD  Dichapong Kanjanawasee MD  Kornkiat Snidvongs MD, PhDFirst published: 11 February 2019 https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.27865K.S. received honoraria for speaking at symposia for Merck Sharp and Dohme, Mylan, and Menarini.The authors have no other funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

27m

Current Research in Scientific Medicine

Competency-based medical education in India: Are we ready?Aneesh BasheerJournal of Current Research in Scientific Medicine 2019 5(1):1-3Analyzing Indian mental health systems: Reflecting, learning, and working towards a better futurePreetam B Mahajan, Prahan Kumar Rajendran, Bhuvaneswary Sunderamurthy, Sumedha Keshavan, Joy BazroyJournal of Current Research in Scientific Medicine 2019 5(1):4-12Mental health has been long neglected. Even though it causes substantial loss of disability-adjusted life...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

28m

Marine Medical Society

Can pre-exposure prophylaxis be a game changer to prevent new HIV infections? A discussion with an armed forces perspectiveSougat Ray, Sunil Goyal, Shabeena Tawar, Vijay Bhaskar, Vinny WilsonJournal of Marine Medical Society 2019 21(1):1-3Artemisinin resistance: Cause for worry?Anurag Khera, Reema MukherjeeJournal of Marine Medical Society 2019 21(1):4-8Background: Artemisinin resistance is being reported from certain regions of the world. Globally, the scientific community is engaged in tracing...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

29m

Acta Oecologica

Assessing the resistance of a breeding amphibian community to a large wildfirePublication date: August 2019Source: Acta Oecologica, Volume 99Author(s): Alberto Muñoz, Ángel M. Felicísimo, Xavier SantosAbstractSocioeconomic and global climate changes are modifying fire regimes towards larger and more intense fires. Studying the response of organisms to the occurrence of large fires is crucial to anticipate shifts in patterns of biodiversity in fire-prone regions. Amphibia is the most threatened terrestrial...

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

31m

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Current Research in Scientific Medicine

Competency-based medical education in India: Are we ready? Aneesh Basheer Journal of Current Research in Scientific Medicine 2019 5(1):1-3

Analyzing Indian mental health systems: Reflecting, learning, and working towards a better future Preetam B Mahajan, Prahan Kumar Rajendran, Bhuvaneswary Sunderamurthy, Sumedha Keshavan, Joy Bazroy Journal of Current Research in Scientific Medicine 2019 5(1):4-12 Mental health has been long neglected. Even though it causes substantial loss of disability-adjusted life years, it does not receive proportionate funding. India spends <2% of its annual health budget on mental health. India has been witnessing a great push for mental health. A number of policy-level reforms have been undertaken, and efforts are on to tackle this issue in a better way. In this study, we have reviewed various factors contributing towards policy, implementation, and utilization gaps based on published studies and Mental Health Survey reports and suggested ways to address these. Bottleneck analysis reveals that interventions to improve mental health scenario extend beyond the ambit of the National Mental Health Policy and requires strong policy negotiations and reforms to resuscitate the dying public health-care system of India.

Tuberculous meningitis: A narrative review Pulikottil Wilson Vinny, Venugopalan Y Vishnu Journal of Current Research in Scientific Medicine 2019 5(1):13-22 Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is a medical emergency. It is the most devastating manifestation of tuberculosis (TB). The outcome depends on early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Empirical antituberculous therapy should be started if clinical suspicion is high. All patients should be tested for HIV. The choice of antituberculous drugs is extrapolated from pulmonary TB regimen, and many drugs have poor cerebrospinal fluid penetration. More evidence is required to guide on drug therapy in TBM. Steroids should be used as adjunctive therapy and response may be modulated by host genotype. Active monitoring should be done for complications such as hydrocephalus, hyponatremia, and stroke.

Iron deficiency anemia among preschool children belonging to affluent families in Kerala, India Jijo Joseph John, Girija Mohan, K Ajitha, Alice David Journal of Current Research in Scientific Medicine 2019 5(1):23-27 Context: Anemia leads to impaired cognitive function, growth, and psychomotor development. Zeroing in on a specific socioeconomic or demographic group and a specific type of anemia, may help in better planning of resources in our battle against anemia. Aims: The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence, severity, risk factors (age, gender, and nutrition status) of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in apparently healthy preschool children (6–59 months) belonging to affluent families. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional study conducted in a private teaching hospital. Subjects and Methods: A total of 160 children aged 6–59 months, belonging to the upper middle class, who came to the pediatric outpatient department for routine visits over a period of 1 year were evaluated. Sociodemographic data with hemoglobin, red cell indices and iron studies of blood samples were estimated. Statistical Analysis Used: Continuous data were described as mean and standard deviation. Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was calculated using multiple logistics regression. Results: Among the 160 children evaluated, 48 (30%) were anemic, of which 41 (85.4%) had IDA. Equal proportion (P = 0.84) of boys (25.0%) and girls (26.4%) and equal proportion (P = 0.75) of well-nourished (26.2%) and moderately nourished (23.3%) had IDA. A higher proportion (P < 0.0001) of children below the age of two (40.7%) had IDA. Children below the age of 2 years were more likely to have IDA (Odds ratio [OR]: 5.8 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.5–13.8) irrespective of gender and nutrition. Conclusions: A high prevalence among apparently healthy children from affluent families is an indicator that the general population rates will be even higher. This study highlights the need to plan further intervention trials with either iron-rich or iron-fortified foods or iron supplementation, especially among children below the age of 2.

Significance of endometrial thickness on transvaginal sonography in heavy menstrual bleeding Meenakshi Singh, Rekha Sachan, Amrita Yadav Journal of Current Research in Scientific Medicine 2019 5(1):28-32 Background: Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) is defined as excessive menstrual blood loss which interferes with a woman's physical, social, emotional, and/or material quality of life. This is the most distressing complication in perimenopausal women which affects the quality of life. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate endometrial thickness (ET) by ultrasound and histopathological examination and their correlation with HMB in perimenopausal women. Materials and Methods: This retrospective analysis was carried out over 1 year. A total of 120 women of 40–55 years' age group who presented with abnormal bleeding pattern were included in the study. These women underwent clinical examination, investigations and ultrasound examination followed by endometrial biopsy. Results: Majority of the women (47.5%) had menstrual disturbance in the age group of 40–45 years followed by 45.8% of women in the age group of 46–50 years. Menorrhagia was the most common complaint found in 65 (54.2%) women, 10 (8.3%) women suffered from metrorrhagia, 18 (15%) had polymenorrhea, and 22 (18.3%) women had amenorrhea followed by heavy bleeding. Proliferative endometrium was found in 90 (75%), secretory endometrium in 8 (6.7%) and simple hyperplasia without atypia in 3 (2.5%) of the women in the study population. Simple hyperplasia with atypia was observed in 2 women (1.7%), 3 women (2.5%) had complex hyperplasia without atypia, and 1 woman (0.83%) had complex hyperplasia with atypia. Endometritis was present in 5 (4.2%) cases and atrophic endometrium was found in 3 (2.5%)cases and atrophic endometrium was found in 2.5% (3). No endometrial biopsy specimen was suggestive of endometrial carcinoma. Simple hyperplasia with atypia was detected when ET was 11–15 mm and 16–20 mm. Complex hyperplasia without atypia was detected with ET >16–20 mm and >20 mm. Only one case had complex hyperplasia with atypia where ET was >20 mm. No abnormal endometrial pathology was detected when ET was below 11 mm. Conclusions: Increased ET on transvaginal ultrasound had association with abnormal endometrial tissue histopathology in women with HMB.

Awareness regarding Nipah infection among health-care workers in a Medical College Hospital in Kerala Aby Dany Varghese, Geethu Mathew, Sruthy C S. Kumar, Anoop Ivan Benjamin Journal of Current Research in Scientific Medicine 2019 5(1):33-38 Background: Nipah is a highly infectious viral zoonotic disease with documented human-to-human transmission and high case fatality rate. An outbreak of Nipah infection occurred in Kerala in May 2018. Considering that this is the first encounter for health professionals dealing with Nipah outbreak in this part of India, awareness intensification among health-care workers is of paramount importance. Objectives: The objective of this study is to find out the awareness regarding Nipah infection among health-care workers at a medical college hospital in Kerala and also to find out the factors associated with level of awareness. Methodology: The present cross-sectional study was conducted at a medical college hospital of Kerala during the period from June 2018 to August 2018. All health-care workers from different categories who were working for a period of >1 month in the medical college were included in the study. The study tool included a structured questionnaire which collected information regarding sociodemographic details, awareness regarding causes, modes of transmission, clinical features, diagnostic investigations, and preventive measures of Nipah. A scoring pattern was developed and any respondent scoring <50% was considered as poor and ≥50% as having good awareness. After taking the written informed consent from the participants, data were collected. Results: In this study, 204 health-care workers were enrolled. The mean age of the participants was 30.01 ± 6.7 years. Majority of the participants were nurses followed by the laboratory staff and doctors. Nearly 41% of the study population had a working experience of ≥5 years. Among the staff, 65.7% was found to have good and 34.3% had poor awareness regarding Nipah infection. The highest level of awareness was observed in Category 3 (investigations) and poorest in Category 4 (prevention). Higher age, work experience, and male gender were the factors associated with better awareness about Nipah. The highest level of awareness was observed among doctors (89.2%) followed by laboratory staff (83.3%) and nurses (61%). Conclusion and Recommendations: The overall awareness about Nipah infection among health-care staff was found to be satisfactory, with 65.7% of them having good awareness even during the initial days of the outbreak. Since it was the first outbreak in Kerala, there were some deficiencies in the knowledge of all categories of the health-care staff. Primary prevention approach aimed at spreading adequate awareness and refreshing knowledge among all health-care staff, including nonmedical staff should be practiced, and thereby they can serve as educators of the community at large.

Variation in common serum lipid parameters in patients with malaria: A 1-year cross-sectional study Prakash Babaliche, Pradeep Gubba Journal of Current Research in Scientific Medicine 2019 5(1):39-43 Background: Variations in serum lipid parameters are commonly and ubiquitously reported in patients with malaria. Different host cell lipid-dependent processes have been observed in the life cycle of the malarial parasite Plasmodium. Aim: The present study was undertaken to assess the serum lipid profile in patients with malaria. Materials and Methods: This 1-year cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2013 to December 2013 at the Department of Medicine. A total of 50 adult patients with positive-smear and quantitative buffy coat test for malaria, as well as with clinical features of malarial infection, were investigated for serum lipid profile changes. Patients on lipid-lowering drugs were excluded from the study. Fasting lipid profile estimation was performed using fully-automated Siemens Dimension Clinical Chemistry System for total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and triglycerides. Data were analyzed using the independent sample t-test and one-way ANOVA. Results: Majority (86%) of the patients were positive for Plasmodium vivax. Thrombocytopenia was observed in 64% of the patients. Serum lipid profile estimation in these patients revealed that 60% of the patients had low total cholesterol levels (100–150 mg/dL), 56% of patients had low-LDL levels (<50 mg/dL), and 58% of patients had low-HDL levels (<20 mg/dL). However, 92% of the patients had hypertriglyceridemia (>150 mg/dL). Interestingly, patients with low-LDL cholesterol level had low-platelet count (51.25 ± 29.67;P = 0.035). Conclusion: Patients with malaria infections may have lipid parameters alteration in terms of hypocholesterolemia, low-HDL and -LDL levels, and hypertriglyceridemia.

Split-rib graft cranioplasty: Our experience and tips to achieve optimum results Pradeep Goil, Amit Sharma, Sharad Kumar, Ayush Jain Journal of Current Research in Scientific Medicine 2019 5(1):44-50 Background: Calvarial defect reconstruction can be performed using a wide range of materials which can be divided into autologous and alloplastic options each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Limiting factors of available options include the risk of infection, absorption, cost, and damage to adjacent tissue. Here, we present our experience of calvarial reconstruction using autologous split-rib graft along with technical details of the surgical procedure. Materials and Methods: Our retrospective study included 22 patients over 6 years. All the patients were operated by the same team, and records were maintained. Patients were followed up for at least 2 years. Results: Results achieved were found to be excellent with no major postoperative complications. Patient satisfaction was motivating, and contour of the cranium was acceptable. There was negligible residual or recurrent deformity in our 2-year follow-up. Conclusions: Calvarial reconstruction with autologous bone graft is superior compared to alloplastic materials. Reconstruction with the rib graft gives optimum results which can be used in most clinical scenarios, including pediatric patients.

Teaching morphologic features of biopsy slides using projection microscope versus the conventional method of teaching: A comparative study Vijayanand Choudhary, Sangeeta Pankaj Journal of Current Research in Scientific Medicine 2019 5(1):51-54 Introduction: Since time immemorial man has tried to improve upon teaching methods so that students can become more proficient. Biopsy slides of pathology have been difficult for medical students to understand and comprehend since a long time. The introduction of projection microscope for teaching biopsy slides would go a long way in simplifying the whole process. Methodology: The authors compared the two teaching methods for identifying pathologic lesion in biopsy slides. Ninety nine fourth semester undergraduate students were divided into two groups with group A having fifty students and group B having forty nine students. The period of our study of four months was divided into two, two month period. In the first two months group B was made the test group and taught biopsy slides using projection microscope and group A was made control group and was taught by conventional method (atlas, chalk and board). To avoid any form of bias, in the second two months their roles were reversed so that group A was made the test group and group B was made the control group. Result: After each two month OSPE was held and marks recorded. At the end of four month period a survey was taken from students and faculty in a feedback form based on Likert scale. In this survey it was found that ninety percent (90%) of the students and faculty were of the view that visual aided method of teaching was superior to conventional method of teaching biopsy slides. In the OSPE the group which underwent visual method of teaching scored higher than the group which underwent conventional method of teaching even after swapping of their roles after two months. Discussion: Teaching tools using two or more senses is superior to teaching with one sense only. This is specially true while using visual and auditory method of teaching which accounts for 88% of our learning. Here we have made good use of visual aid in form of projection microscope to teach and explain the morphologic features of pathologic lesion in a biopsy slide.

Retrospective study of sociodemographic profile of suicidal cases by hanging in a tertiary care hospital at Puducherry Sunil Subramanyam, Joshima Janardhanan, R Sanjana, R Keerthi, R Monish Kumar, V Salvia Vicuna, Anten P Jairish Journal of Current Research in Scientific Medicine 2019 5(1):55-58 Introduction: Hanging is one of the most common methods of committing suicide worldwide as it is believed to cause instant relatively painless death. Objectives: The objective of this study is to analyze the sociodemographic profile, ligature material used, and place of incidence among the victims who committed suicide by hanging. Materials and Methods: The data required for the study were collected and analyzed from all cases of hanging autopsied at a tertiary care center. Results: It was found that most of the victims belonged to younger and middle age groups. Most cases were males, and majority of the victims opted an indoor location to commit suicide. Ligature materials used in majority of the cases were either synthetic or jute rope. Most of the victims were either unemployed or had worked in harsh conditions which depict their socioeconomic status. Conclusion: Analyzing the various sociodemographic features of suicide victims is the initial step in formulating effective preventive efforts from a sociological perspective.

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Marine Medical Society

Can pre-exposure prophylaxis be a game changer to prevent new HIV infections? A discussion with an armed forces perspective Sougat Ray, Sunil Goyal, Shabeena Tawar, Vijay Bhaskar, Vinny Wilson Journal of Marine Medical Society 2019 21(1):1-3

Artemisinin resistance: Cause for worry? Anurag Khera, Reema Mukherjee Journal of Marine Medical Society 2019 21(1):4-8 Background: Artemisinin resistance is being reported from certain regions of the world. Globally, the scientific community is engaged in tracing the epidemiology of this resistance while also working on possible interventions to curb the spread. Aim: We reviewed the epidemiology of antimalarial drug resistance, especially artemisinin resistance both globally and in India, and report the possible ways forward. Literature Search: Resistance to all antimalarial drugs developed initially in South East Asia and thereafter spread globally. Artemisinin-based combination treatment (ACT) was formally recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2005 to achieve an enhanced barrier to drug resistance. However in 2008, resistance to artemisinin was first reported from Western Cambodia/Thailand. Subsequently, P falciparum chromosome 13 ('kelch' motif or K13) (Pfk 13) was implicated with slow in vivo parasite clearance. As of 2019, artemisinin resistance has been confirmed in six countries of the Greater Mekong Sub-region. The North east states of India have been the portal for entry of anti-malarial drug resistance over the past decades. Though in vitro testing have not shown evidence of decreased artemisinin sensitivity, however, Pfk13 mutations have been reported from India, thus sounding a note of caution and indicating the need for continued genetic, clinical and public health surveillance. Conclusion: Though clinical cure in falciparum malaria infection continues to be elicited through use of ACT even in the countries reporting artemisinin resistance, however a comprehensive framework for combating the resistance has already been put into action by the WHO.

Review of advances in management of pulmonary hypertension Manjit Sharad Tendolkar, Rahul Tyagi, R Ananthakrishnan, Ajay Handa Journal of Marine Medical Society 2019 21(1):9-14 Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is characterized by an increased pulmonary artery pressure with subsequent increase in morbidity and mortality. Epidemiologically, one of the common causes of PH among serving soldier is chronic thromboembolic PH. There have been recent reports of PH among divers. There has been a lot of advancement in the management of PH in recent times. We review the management of this condition with special emphasis on recent advances.

Accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging of the shoulder in evaluation of anterior shoulder instability Yogesh Sharma, Mohammed Schezan Iqbal, Ajay Deep Sud, Pankaj Sharma, Mohit Thapa Magar Journal of Marine Medical Society 2019 21(1):15-18 Background: Shoulder arthroscopy is currently considered the gold standard in diagnosing shoulder pathologies. Although magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has an established accuracy in determining labral injuries following glenohumeral instability, the opinions of surgeons and radiologists regarding MRIs are still inconsistent till date. The aim of this study was to carry out a diagnostic evaluation of MRI vis-a-vis shoulder arthroscopy for the assessment of Bankart and Hill-Sachs lesions in subjects of anterior shoulder instability. Subjects and Methods: This was a diagnostic evaluation study, estimating the accuracy of MRI in diagnosing lesions encountered in shoulder dislocations vis-a-vis shoulder arthroscopy. Ninety participants of anterior shoulder dislocation were evaluated preoperatively with a shoulder MRI. The study participants were later subjected to a diagnostic shoulder arthroscopy and managed operatively on a case-to-case basis. Results: The sensitivity and specificity of MRI to diagnose a Bankart lesion were 90.78% and 85%, respectively. The positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were 97% and 63% for the same. The sensitivity and specificity of MRI to diagnose a Hill–Sachs lesion were 92.68% and 85.71%, respectively. The PPV and NPV were 84.44% and 93.33% for the same. The diagnostic accuracy for MRI detection of Bankart lesion was 91% and of Hill–Sachs lesion was 88.89%. Conclusions: MRI is a very sensitive and specific tool in the detection of lesions commonly associated with shoulder instability, namely Bankart and Hill–Sachs lesions.

Knowledge and practices about protein supplement use amongst students of a medical college Kuntal Bandyopadhyay, Sougat Ray, Shruti Vashisht, Gurpreet Singh Bhalla, Manbeer Singh Sarao Journal of Marine Medical Society 2019 21(1):19-23 Background: Nutrition and sports go hand in hand. With the availability of a wide range of protein supplements in the market and a risk taking mindset of the young generation to achieve fast and presentable results to their appearance or performance, a thorough knowledge and the selection of the right product becomes important. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in a medical college in an urban locality over a period of 06 months. Participants were selected from a medical college by simple random sampling method and a total of 385 selected participants were distributed pre-tested questionnaires. Data was collected and the results were tabulated using appropriate statistics. Results: Amongst 385 participants (276 male & 109 females), 80 (20.8%) participants used supplements regularly. The mean age and BMI of protein supplement consumers was found to be 20.8 ± 1.4 years & 21.61 ± 1.9 Kg/m2. The association of use of supplements was found to be highly significant amongst those playing more than one sport (p<0.001), playing daily (p<0.001) and working out in gym (p<0.001). While the most common reason participants cited for consumption of supplements was to augment their diet and build muscles (46.3%), the commonest source of their information was found to be internet (65.8%). Conclusion: There still exists a huge gap in the knowledge and practices on the use of supplements amongst the college students which needs to be bridged and thus, by highlighting gaps in nutritional knowledge, sport nutrition professionals may begin to address these gaps by educating sportsperson with a view toward minimizing injury and enhancing sport performance.

Dexmeditomedine as an adjuvant reduces the minimum effective anesthetic volume of ropivacaine required for supraclavicular brachial plexus nerve block Parli Raghavan Ravi, MN Vijai Journal of Marine Medical Society 2019 21(1):24-30 Background: Dexmeditomidine has been used as an adjuvant with local anaesthetic amides for supraclavicular brachial plexus block for improving the quality and duration of analgesia. We conducted this study to find out that whether as an adjuvant it reduces the minimum effective anaesthetic concentration (MEAC) and minimum effective anaesthetic volume (MEAV). Materials and Methods: 90 patients undergoing upper limb surgery were randomized into three groups and given ultrasound guided supraclavicular block. Group A received 30 ml of 0.5% Ropivacaine, Group B received 20 ml of 0.5% ropivacaine with 50μgm dexmeditomidine and Group C received 15 ml of 0.5% ropivacaine with 50μgm of dexmeditomidine. The onset of sensory and motor block, the duration of sensory and motor block, quality of analgesia, haemodynamic and sedative parameters were recorded. SPSS software was used for statistical analysis. Results: The onset of sensory block in Group B(9.47±3.54mins) and Group C (12.45±3.86) was faster in comparison to Group A(17.64±5.36) which was statistically significant. The duration of the block was also more in Group B and C in comparison to Group A. The requirement of rescue analgesia was also less in Group B and C. There were no statistically significant changes in the haemodynamic parameters and sedation scores. Although the patients of Group C received lesser volume and dose of ropivacaine than Group B, there was no statistically significant delay in onset or duration of sensory and motor block neither any change in the quality of analgesia. Conclusion: We concluded that 15 ml of ropivacaine with 50μgm of dexmeditomidine is adequate for good quality of analgesia with no compromise on onset of analgesia and duration of block..

An epidemiological study of varicella outbreak in a military training establishment Dattatraya Ramkrishna Sinalkar, Rahul K Ray, SM Sudumbrekar Journal of Marine Medical Society 2019 21(1):31-35 Context: Though incidence of the Varicella has decreased in recent years due to introduction of vaccine; outbreaks continue to occur in closed environments such as those of militaries. The present study describes one such outbreak in a military training establishment. Setting and Design: This cross sectional study was conducted at a Secondary level hospital. Aims: To describe the distribution and characteristics of Varicella infections and to make suitable recommendations for prevention and control. Materials and Methods: All admitted cases of Varicella from a military training establishment during the outbreak were included in the study. Epidemiological data was collected by face to face interview. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was performed using Epinfo software version 3.5.3. Results: Total 332 recruits were admitted in the local military hospital in said outbreak. Eight administrative staffs of recruiting center and two medical staffs attending the patient at hospital were also affected. The age of the patients ranged from 18 to 34 years with a mean of 20.3 ± 3.5 years. None of the cases admitted had developed any complication and their hospital stay remained uneventful. Maximum cases (59%) were presented with rash as a first clinical manifestation and 94.3 % of them had history of contact with a case of Varicella. None of them gave a history of vaccination. Conclusions: Though policy to offer vaccination against Varicella to all recruits on entry level exists, it should be implemented on ground to ensure unnecessary interruption in training activities.

Epworth sleepiness score to predict sleep apnea in acute stroke: Do we need to delve deeper? Rahul Tyagi, Pulikottil Wilson Vinny, Vivek Hande, Vijay Budhwar Journal of Marine Medical Society 2019 21(1):36-40 Introduction: Globally, stroke is a leading cause of death and disability. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is globally being recognized as an emerging public health problem and a risk factor for stroke. Epworth Sleepiness Score (ESS) is increasingly being used as a screening tool to determine the likelihood of OSA in a patient before polysomnography (PSG). However, ESS questionnaires in patients with acute stroke and their comparison with overnight PSG have not been studied. We conducted this study at a tertiary care respiratory center in Mumbai to determine the effectiveness of ESS in predicting the prevalence of sleep apnea in acute ischemic stroke. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight patients of acute stroke were included in the study. These patients were subjected to ESS and technician attended overnight PSG. Apnea–Hypopnea Index, oxygen desaturation index, and minimum saturation were determined at the overnight PSG. Results: Majority of patients belonged to 61–80 years' age group (53.6%) and were predominantly male (89.3%). Only 5 patients (17.9%) showed an ESS of more than 8, whereas 23 patients (82.1%) showed evidence of OSA on PSG. Sensitivity of ESS in predicting OSA in patients with acute stroke was 17.3%, whereas specificity was 80%. Conclusion: The use of ESS in patients of acute stroke to screen for sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) should be avoided. A PSG may be considered in these patients as early diagnosis of SDB in these patients can help in improving recovery.

Study of the anthropometry and prevalence of overweight in school boys in an Urban Area Sukhmeet Minhas, Rajesh Kunwar, Harinder Sekhon, Pijush Jaiswal Journal of Marine Medical Society 2019 21(1):41-45 Context: Overweight and obesity has been found to increase among children over the last few decades. Not only are more children becoming overweight, but they are also becoming so at a relatively younger age. Aims: This study of anthropometry of boys in a school in an urban area calculates the prevalence of overweight and thereafter suggests appropriate measures for improvement in lifestyle. Besides, secondary objectives were to determine the association of overweight and obesity with demographic factors. Settings and Design: A school-based, descriptive, cross-sectional study, in an urban area. Subjects and Methods: A sample size of 1537 was calculated. Anthropometric measurements of the participants were recorded including height, body weight, mid-upper arm circumference, and waist and hip circumference. Status of overweight and obesity was determined using body mass index. A structured questionnaire was used to record the personal particulars and sociocultural factors. Statistical Analysis Used: Data were analyzed using the software Epi Info™ version 7, developed by the Division of Health Informatics and Surveillance of the Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta. Results: Most participants ranged in age from 6 to 15 years, while 17.2% were overweight and 3.7% were found to be obese. Conclusions: As the main causes of excess weight include individual behavior and dietary patterns, children must be exposed and habituated to a healthy lifestyle as a preventive measure.

Spinal cord injury in organizational setup - A hospital based descriptive study Gurpreet Singh, Rajat Prakash, Vijay K Bhatti, Ajoy Mahen Journal of Marine Medical Society 2019 21(1):46-50 Introduction: There is dearth of data on Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) from developing countries where ironically, special focus is required. Aims and Objectives: To study SCI in an organisational set up. Material and Methods: An observational, cross sectional study at a tertiary care rehabilitation centre was conducted. Patients who had injury during service were included. Questionnaire and case records were used to collect socio-demographic variables, cause, level, severity and duration of injury and clinical, functional and psychological status. Organisational support was estimated for pre-hospitalisation services, inpatient welfare measures and post-hospitalisation rehabilitative services. Results: A total of 157 patients participated. Median age at time of injury was 27 years with 89.2% injuries within 18 - 37 years of age. Trauma was underlying cause in 94.3%. Most common level of injury was thoracic (37.6%) and majority (66.9%) were paraplegic. RTA was most common (42.6%) traumatic cause and Tuberculosis among non-traumatic causes(66.6%). Scores suggestive of stress disorder were present in 13%. Pre-hospitalization health facilities were available to 79.6%. Majority (59.2%) had access to health facilities within two hours. Personal assistance was available to 88.5% and 66.9% undertook rehabilitation course. Conclusion: Health education with emphasis to trauma prevention in young is required. Social security measures need to be replicated by all organisations, both public and private in the country.

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Acta Oecologica

Assessing the resistance of a breeding amphibian community to a large wildfire Publication date: August 2019 Source: Acta Oecologica, Volume 99 Author(s): Alberto Muñoz, Ángel M. Felicísimo, Xavier Santos Abstract Socioeconomic and global climate changes are modifying fire regimes towards larger and more intense fires. Studying the response of organisms to the occurrence of large fires is crucial to anticipate shifts in patterns of biodiversity in fire-prone regions. Amphibia is the most threatened terrestrial vertebrate taxon, although it is also the least studied in relation to its response to fire. We evaluated the resistance to fire (similarity in species composition before and after fire) and reproductive success during the first breeding season after a fire of an amphibian community at the Mediterranean basin. We sampled 33 aquatic habitats, including ponds and streams located inside and outside the perimeter of the fire, and reported the presence of adult amphibians and their reproductive success. The community composition in burnt and unburnt areas was compared by similarity analysis. Generalized Linear Models were used to test the effects of fire (burnt or unburnt area), habitat type (stream or pond), distance to the perimeter of the wildfire, and altitude on total and breeding species richness. We did not find significant differences in amphibian community composition between burnt and unburnt areas, or in total species richness per water point. Of the 12 species found in the study area, only frogs of the genus Hyladeclined in the burnt area due to the destruction of their preferred microhabitat, i.e. vegetation surrounding ponds. In contrast, breeding occurrence and breeding species richness declined in burnt streams and ponds. These results suggest a high amphibian resistance to fire at the community level, although the reduction of breeding activity can threaten the persistence of a rich community in future scenarios of increased recurrence of megafires.

Seabirds modify trophic groups, while altitude promotes xeric-tolerant species of Tardigrada in the high Arctic tundra (Svalbard archipelago) Publication date: July 2019 Source: Acta Oecologica, Volume 98 Author(s): Krzysztof Zawierucha, Katarzyna Zmudczyńska-Skarbek, Noemi Guil, Michał Bogdziewicz Abstract In the Arctic, especially in the coastal mountainous areas, gradual changes in elevation above sea level and allochthonous nutrients delivered by seabirds modify environmental conditions. Increasing elevation affects temperature whereas allochthonous nutrients delivered by seabirds to the terrestrial ecosystem remarkably influence primary production and diversity of organisms. Knowing the abundance of ubiquitous tardigrades (a microinvertebrate phylum), their multitrophic level function and their trophic composition might be essential for understanding ecosystem functioning and matter flow in fragile polar ecosystems. In this study, we tested the effects of altitude and seabird guano on modifying trophic diversity of tardigrades. We found that the tardigrades in Hornsund were herbivorous and microbivorous species dominated. Microbivores were significantly more abundant in guano-supplied than in control areas, which may be explained by the presence of higher nutrient and organic matter content in comparison with areas not fertilised by birds. We observed no significant relationship between the abundance of tardigrade trophic groups and altitude. However, the abundance of xeric-tolerant herbivorous terrestrial tardigrades representing the class Heterotardigrada increased with altitude. Strongly hygrophilic conditions (ponds, swamps, streams) at lower elevations as well as acidic conditions formed by seabird guano may reduce the abundance of heterotardigrades. Our study shows that seabirds rather than the effect of altitude or the generally predicted increasing temperatures in the Arctic, are affecting high Arctic tundra limno-terrestrial invertebrate trophic groups proportion. Our results provide baseline data for future studies of the Hornsund region, since climate change scenarios predict decreased guano delivery by seabirds on mountain slopes, shifts in plant species dominance and more intense fertilisation of lakes by geese, all of which may alter invertebrate trophic composition in southern Svalbard.

Complex effects of nonpollinating wasps on the relationship between pollinating wasp and seed production in Ficus andicola Publication date: July 2019 Source: Acta Oecologica, Volume 98 Author(s): William Cardona, Gustavo H. Kattan Abstract Mutualisms are evolutionarily unstable because an imbalance in benefits obtained by the two partners may make the interaction exploitative. In the Ficus-Agaonidae system, it is advantageous for pollinating wasps (PW) to lay eggs in as many flowers as possible within a fig, to maximize offspring production. From the tree's perspective, however, a balance is expected between seed and wasp production, as wasps represent the tree's male function. The key to the system's stability requires explaining why PW mainly use internal flowers for egg-laying, leaving those closer to the fig's wall for seed production. An hypothesis proposes that nonpollinating fig-wasps (NPFW), which exploit the system by laying eggs in figs but not pollinating, help stabilize the mutualism. We compared seed and PW production in figs of F. andicola with and without NPFW. In unexploited figs, seed and PW numbers were negatively correlated, and the PW/seeds proportion was 3:1. In exploited figs, seed and PW numbers were positively correlated, and the PW/seed ratio was approximately 1:1. This pattern may result from an indirect effect of Idarnes gr. flavicollis on PW. This species of NPFW lays before or simultaneously with PW in the same kind of flowers, causing PW to spend more time searching for free ovaries, thus reducing their laying rate. Alternatively, PW may reject some flowers to reduce the risk of exploitation by NPFW. In unexploited figs, PW use more flowers at the expense of seed production. In exploited figs, NPFW restrict flower use by PW, favoring a balance in the seeds/PW ratio. This effect only occurs at low exploitation levels. The absence of NPFW favors PW, whereas high exploitation levels are detrimental for both seeds and PW. A high spatial and temporal variability in exploitation rates seems required to avoid directional selection favoring PW or NPFW, thus stabilizing the mutualism.

Dietary composition and selection in the stream-breeding anuran assemblage from a tropical wet forest in eastern Mexico Publication date: July 2019 Source: Acta Oecologica, Volume 98 Author(s): Ricardo Luría-Manzano, Aurelio Ramírez-Bautista Abstract In this study, we analyzed seasonal variation in dietary composition and diversity, structure along the trophic axis, and prey selection in a stream-breeding anuran assemblage from Mexico. It is composed of four morphologically diverse species: three strictly arboreal (Hyalinobatrachium fleischmanni, Ptychohyla zophodes, and Rheohyla miotympanum) and one that occupies several microhabitats (Lithobates vaillanti). Dietary composition did not differ between seasons, but it differed among the four species. Araneae, Orthoptera, Homoptera, and Lepidoptera (adults) were the prey that accounted for most of the variation. Dietary diversity was higher in the dry than in the rainy season in L. vaillanti, and was higher in this species than in the other three. In the dry season, arthropods were more abundant but less diverse in the environment, and L. vaillanti and R. miotympanum consumed less prey than in the rainy season. Furthermore, we detected that the frog assemblage was nonrandomly structured only in the dry season. Hyalinobatrachium fleischmanni strongly selected Homoptera and Orthoptera, but did not select prey by their size within the size range consumed. Ptychohyla zophodes and R. miotympanum strongly selected Lepidoptera (adults and larvae) and selected their prey by their size in the dry season. Our results overall suggest that interspecific competition could be a strong force in shaping type and quantity of food consumed between the two hylids. Additionally, we found a wider array of microhabitats used and prey types consumed than previously reported for L. vaillanti. Lastly, the relatively specialized diet of the three strictly arboreal species, and their selection towards insects sensitive to habitat changes (homopterans and lepidopterans), make them particularly vulnerable to changes in arthropod communities.

Tolerance to severe browsing of three shrub species on Mediterranean islands Publication date: July 2019 Source: Acta Oecologica, Volume 98 Author(s): Jordi Bartolomé Filella, Elena Baraza Ruíz, Ma Carme Espunya Prat, Eva Castells Caballé, Leidy Rivera Sánchez, Ma José Broncano Atencia Abstract Buxus balearica Lam., Ephedra fragilis Desf., and Juniperus oxycedrus L. are three Pre-Mediterranean shrubs that have become scarce in the Balearic Islands probably due to a climatic change and the anthropogenic activities during the second half of the Holocene. In addition, an endemic artiodactyl, Myotragus balearicus, exerted browsing pressure on these species for thousands of years, and after it disappeared domestic goats were introduced by humans. Adaptations that enable these plants to resist grazing are structural or chemical; however, there is no information about whether their defenses are only constitutive or also inducible. Currently, the mountain ranges of Majorca Island are extensively occupied by feral goats, and a possible increase in the stocking rates could affect the survival of these plant species. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effects of simulated severe browsing on the re-growth capacity and chemical composition of these species in order to determine their tolerance to herbivory. We sampled and compared structural and chemical variables of saplings submitted to two pruning intensities for each species. The results showed that all three species could maintain their growth rate and biomass ratios under simulated herbivory. Sprout production was also stimulated in all them. E. fragilis and B. balearica increased phenolic content after pruning, and E. fragilis also increased the condensed tannins. Pruning treatments did not trigger induction of phenolic content in J. oxycedrus, which could be considered as a constitutive defense. It is noteworthy that alkaloids in E. fragilis decreased with the treatments, which may contribute to preventing a possible addiction to these compounds, and thus reduce browsing damage. The responses induced by pruning show that these species are very tolerant to a level of herbivory, which could indicate a good adaptation to browsing pressure, exerted since the Pleistocene by Myotragus balearicus, and followed by goats during the last millennia. This is especially relevant in Mediterranean islands, such as the Balearic Islands, where practices for conserving relict plant species are based on feral herbivore exclusion.

Alpine grassland degradation reduced plant species diversity and stability of plant communities in the Northern Tibet Plateau Publication date: July 2019 Source: Acta Oecologica, Volume 98 Author(s): Congyan Wang, Mei Wei, Bingde Wu, Shu Wang, Kun Jiang Abstract The alpine grassland in the Northern Tibet Plateau has been degraded in recent decades. This study aimed at addressing the effects of the degree of degradation on species diversity and stability of plant communities and the relationships between diversity stability. Stability of plant communities decreased with the increasing degree of degradation probably due to the significantly decreased diversity and evenness of plant communities with degradation. Diversity (including Shannon and Simpson diversity, Pielou evenness, and species richness) was positively correlated with the corresponding stability of plant communities. This suggets that high levels of plant diversity lead to higher levels of complementary resource use via niche complementation. The relative abundance of the most dominant species was negatively correlated with the stability of the corresponding plant communities. This suggests that the stability of plant communities decreases with increasing degradation but the relative abundance of the most dominant species increases with degradation. In conclusion, diversity and the corresponding stability of plant communities decrease with increasing degradation in the alpine grassland in the Northern Tibet Plateau.

Earthworms contribute to ecosystem process in no-till systems with high crop rotation intensity in Argentina Publication date: July 2019 Source: Acta Oecologica, Volume 98 Author(s): J.C. Bedano, F. Vaquero, A. Domínguez, M.P. Rodríguez, L. Wall, P. Lavelle Abstract In the Pampas region of Argentina agriculture is dominated by intensive no-till (NT) soybean cropping which produce negative consequences on soil quality. A group of farmers started to use the Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) which include a higher crop rotation, use of winter cover crops and nutrient restoration. In this NT system earthworms have a significant role in soil functioning, particularly in organic matter cycling and soil structure formation. The aim of this paper was to examine the contribution of earthworm activity to the process of C incorporation and soil structure maintenance in soils with different NT variants of: NT with GAP for 30 years (NT + r30); NT with some of the GAP for 12 years (NT-r12) and NT with soybean monoculture (NTm). Also a natural grassland (NA) was sampled as a reference. Earthworm aggregates were obtained by gently separating them from surrounding soil. Fine (HOC) and coarse (POC) organic matter fractions, water-stable aggregates (WSA) and mean weight diameter (MWD) were calculated for earthworm aggregates and bulk soil. In all sites only one species (Aporrectodea caliginosa) was found, with higher density in the NA, followed by NT + r30, that had about 9 times more earthworms than NTm. The number of earthworm aggregates was higher in the NT + r30 followed by the NA, both showing differences with the other NT systems. The earthworm aggregates in NA and NT + r30 had significantly more POC than the surrounding soil (230% increase in NA and 100% NT + r30). Earthworm casts had higher values of MWD and WSA than physical soil aggregates in both NA and NT + r30 management treatments. Our results show the existence of a positive feedback loop we called earthworm-driven virtuous cycle. The increase in earthworm abundance promotes higher production of earthworm aggregates which are richer in organic matter and more water stable than the surrounding soil. This has favourable results in terms of soil quality but also increase crop yields (57% in maize and 18% in soybean), by means of biologically mediated soil processes, which is a highly desirable way to sustainability of agricultural production. Farmers, politicians and the whole society should pay more attention to soil as a key component supporting agricultural production by means of internal biological soil functioning.

Heterogeneity in millipede communities (Diplopoda) within a forest–forest edge–meadow habitat complex Publication date: July 2019 Source: Acta Oecologica, Volume 98 Author(s): Slavomír Stašiov, Vladimír Kubovčík, Marek Čiliak, Andrea Diviaková, Ivan Lukáčik, Vladimír Pätoprstý, Martin Dovciak Abstract The positive influence of heterogeneity in vegetation and land-use on animal diversity is generally well established, but it has not been conclusively confirmed yet in millipede communities inhabiting karst canyons where biodiversity is to large extent determined by variation in topography (e.g., elevation). We studied how millipede assemblages (Diplopoda) vary between forest, forest edge, and meadow habitats in this specific karst environment. We sampled millipedes by pitfall trapping during two vegetation seasons (from March to October in 2001 and 2002) in approximately monthly intervals across nine sites in Central Slovakia (Veľká Fatra Mts). In total, 951 individuals belonging to 12 species from 6 families and 10 orders were collected. The dominant species was Unciger foetidus, which was also one of the two most frequent species along with Polydesmus complanatus. Although the total number of captured millipedes was greatest on forest edges (395 individuals), intermediate in meadows, and lowest in forests (214 individuals), millipede abundance and species composition varied considerably within each habitat type among the sites. Total millipede species richness in meadow and forest edge habitats was the same (11 species) and it was lower in forest habitats (7 species), while species diversity (Shannon's H′) and equitability (E) were greatest in meadows. Millipede diversity measures (species richness or equitability) were correlated positively with species richness of herb layer and negatively with shrub layer equitability, soil conductivity, and soil phosphorus. Thus, we found complex patterns of heterogeneity in millipede community composition and richness across studied habitats and elevations that were driven by habitat type and plant community and soil characteristics. While millipede abundance patterns varied, open habitats supported most species-rich millipede communities at lower elevations, while forest edges were most species-rich at the high elevation.

Fear alone reduces energy processing by resident 'keystone' prey threatened by an invader; a non-consumptive effect of 'killer shrimp' invasion of freshwater ecosystems is revealed Publication date: July 2019 Source: Acta Oecologica, Volume 98 Author(s): Calum MacNeil, Mark Briffa Abstract Non-consumptive effects (NCEs) of predators – so called 'fear' responses – encompass costly antipredator behaviours, such as reduced feeding efficiency. NCEs can influence prey population dynamics and community structure, if prey are 'keystone' species such as Gammarus spp. amphipod 'shrimps'. These freshwater macroinvertebrates have the ecosystem functional role of shredding fallen leaf litter, making it accessible to other taxa. Across Europe, the invasive predatory 'killer shrimp' Dikerogammarus villosus is replacing resident Gammarus spp., potentially threatening this vital ecosystem function. While predation (consumptive effects (CEs)) of this invader has been well studied, for the first time we test whether NCEs can be evident in prey only exposed to D. villosus presence and whether this could potentially impact on the prey's functional role. In mesocosms, exposure to constrained D. villosus did not result in mortalities of any of three Gammarus prey species but the leaf shredding efficiencies of all prey were significantly reduced compared to a control treatment. This clear NCE has the potential to propagate through the ecological community via decreased energy processing. This study demonstrates the potential for fear of invasive predator presence alone to impact on ecosystem function.

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
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6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com