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A method to detect the shell cracks in translucent images of duck eggs and salted duck eggs is presented. The method consists of a sequenced wave signal extraction algorithm to extract the sequenced wave signals from the translucent images of duck eggs. Furthermore, the characteristic parameters of the extracted sequenced wave signals are calculated and analyzed. The analysis results showed that, the sequenced wave signals extracted from egg translucent images are caused by three factors: (i) egg cracks; (ii) air cell membrane of eggs; and (iii) shell texture. The sequenced wave signals caused by egg air cell membrane and shell texture are eliminated by using characteristic parameters of the sequenced wave signals. After the elimination, a classification algorithm is used on the translucent images of eggs. In the conducted experiments, the classification algorithm achieved an accuracy of 92.5% and 93.1% for duck eggs and salted duck eggs, respectively.

The corrosion of lead in methanesulfonic acid solution in the presence of a MnO2 air cathode in a primary lead-air cell is in-vestigated. The highest power density of the lead-air cell is 2.8 mW cm-2. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and powder X-ray diffraction results demonstrate the formation of lead (II) oxide and lead (IV) dioxide on the air cathode after continuous discharge. Field emission scanning electron microscopy image shows that the surface coverage of lead (II) oxide and lead (IV) dioxide on the air cathode is only partial and will allow oxygen reduction.

Aluminum-air cell, with trivalence redox couples, attracts a lot of interest to break the capacity limitation of conventional batteries in pursuit of higher mobility for portable devices. In order to overcome the self-discharge issue of aluminum, a microfluidic aluminum-air cell working with methanol-based anolyte was developed in this work. The operation feasibility of this membraneless cell was first proved. Then, the influences of electrolyte concentration and water content in the methanol-based anolyte on cell performances were investigated. Experimentally, a high discharge capacity density of 2507 mAh/g was achieved at a low current of 0.015 mA.

Background: Mastoid development, tympanic sinus depth, and residual disease after surgery for congenital cholesteatoma are probably related, but these relationships have not been examined in detail...

There is an increasing demand for gluten-free products, with the texture being a critical aspect. The aim of this work was to study the food bolus properties of gluten-free breads in relation to the dynamics of sensations perceived during its consumption. In this study, five-commercial gluten-free breads and two regular breads were analysed for their texture, crumb structure, and moisture content. Bread bolus particle size after three chews, bolus characteristics at the swallowing point, and oral activity were determined. The dynamics of textural sensations during bread consumption was evaluated using the temporal dominance of sensations (TDS) technique. Texture and structure properties vary among gluten-free breads being some of them close to regular breads (crumb with more and smaller cells that shows low hardness and high springiness) that lead to different in-mouth breakdown and TDS patterns. At the beginning, harder breads with low springiness values resulted in hard dominant sensations, in contrast, breads with low hardness and high springiness values were perceived soft and spongy. Breads that fragmented into a greater number of small size particles created crumbly and sandy sensations, characteristic of gluten-free breads with large air cell sizes. Compact sensation appeared in breads with low saliva uptake during bolus formation, while pasty and sticky sensations were related to a cohesive and adhesive bolus, respectively. Not only structure and mechanical properties, but also its oral behaviour in terms of fragmentation and bolus formation can fully explain the dynamics of texture perception of gluten-free breads., Authors are grateful to the Spanish Ministry of the Economy and Competitiveness for financial support (project AGL-2016-75403-R) and for the Juan de la Cierva contract for author Laura Laguna (IJCI-2016-27427, support of EU FEDER funds). Furthermore, to Generalitat Valenciana (Project Prometeo 2017/189).

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of tympanic plate (TP) pneumatisation as well as the various potential patterns. A retrospective study involving the archived Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) files of 70 patients was performed to investigate anatomical variations of TP pneumatisation. Forty-eight TPs were found to be non-pneumatised, while 92 were found to contain at least peritubal air cells. Twenty patients (28.5%) did not present any variety of TP pneumatisation, while 36 patients (51.4%) exhibited a symmetrical pattern of pneumatisation. Aside from those patients who lacked TP pneumatisation, the peritubal pneumatisation pattern was found to be the most common. Further, bilateral symmetry was found to occur in more than half of all cases. CBCT is a powerful diagnostic tool, although appropriate knowledge of the anatomical possibilities remains mandatory for adequate surgical planning.

Background Learning surgical anatomy of the petrous pyramid can be a challenge, especially in the beginning of the training process. Providing an easier, holistic approach can be of help to everyone with interest in learning and teaching skull base anatomy. We present the complex organization of petrous pyramid anatomy using a new compartmental approach that is simple to understand and remember. Methods The surfaces of the petrous pyramid of two temporal bones were examined; and the contents of the petrous pyramid of 8 temporal bones were exposed through progressive drilling of the superior surface. Results The petrous pyramid is made up of a bony container, and its contents were grouped into 4 compartments (mucosal, cutaneous, neural, and vascular). Two reference lines were identified (mucosal and external-internal auditory canal lines) intersecting at the level of the middle ear. The localization of contents relative to these reference lines was then described, and 2 methods of segmentation (the X method and the V method) were then proposed. This description was then used to describe middle ear relationships, facial nerve anatomy, and air cell distribution. Conclusions This new compartmental approach allows a comprehensive understanding of the distribution of petrous pyramid contents. Dividing it into anatomic compartments, and then navigating this mental map along specific reference points, lines, spaces, and segments, could create a useful tool to teach or learn its complex tridimensional anatomy.

Effects of resistant starch as a functional substitute on the quality of Yukwa were determined. Replacement ratios of resistant starch were 2, 4, and 6% of glutinous rice flour. Regarding pasting properties of Yukwa dough replaced with resistant starch, initial pasting temperature significantly increased and peak viscosity significantly decreased with increasing resistant starch. The moisture contents of bandegi and Yukwa base replaced with resistant starch were higher than that of the control. The expansion ratio of Yukwa base replaced with resistant starch significantly decreased with increasing resistant starch, and there were no significant differences in the oil absorption ratio. Lightness (L) of Yukwa base replaced with resistant starch increased significantly with increasing resistant starch. Appearance of Yukwa base replaced with resistant starch showed a shortened length and increased width with increasing resistant starch, and cross-section showed an oval shape, fine air cell distribution, and increased outer layer thickness. Hardness and peak number increased significantly with increasing resistant starch. The overall acceptability of Yukwa base replaced with 6% resistant starch was the highest among the samples, but the result was not significant. The above results show that resistant starch substitution in Yukwa improved the texture and further could improve health functionality due to its dietary fiber content. Resistant starch was appropriate as a 6% replacement for glutinous rice flour in Yukwa.

This research aimed to determine the textural attributes of fried puffed rice starch products by the relative crystallinity (RC) of pellets (RCp). Three factors, amylose content (AC), aging time and cooling rate were varied to obtain various levels of RCp. The different textural characteristics of the puffed rice products were evaluated by instrumental and descriptive sensory analysis. The higher AC and longer aging time resulted in higher RCp. Pellets with higher RCp had smaller and denser air cell structures and lower expansion, resulting in higher crispness, hardness and fracturability. High correlation between the RCp and the instrumental and the sensory texture characteristics were determined and regression models (with R2 > 0.80) were established. These models can be used to predict some properties of puffed products, such as crispness, hardness, and brittleness. Panelists rated samples with an AC of 9% (in a range of 2.8–3.7% RCp) highest in appearance and texture scores. Practical Applications The RCp and textural properties of puffed products can be affected by many factors including ingredients and process parameters. This study provides a better understanding of both the textural characteristics of puffed rice starch products using sensory and instrumental approaches, but also their correlations. The relationship between the RCp and sensory evaluation data can be applied for the prediction of puffing quality.

The skull base attachment of the second lamella and suprabullar pneumatization are likely to be consistent landmarks if they are systematically classified. This study aimed to classify the pneumatization pattern according to the second lamella skull base attachment. A total of 202 computed tomography sides of 101 patients who underwent endoscopic sinus surgery were studied. Suprabullar pneumatization was defined as air cells present above the ethmoid bulla between the second and third lamellae. Its pattern was classified according to the air cell number and location as in the frontal cell classification. Type 0 suprabullar pneumatization was defined as no air cells between the ethmoid bulla and skull base; type 1, as a single suprabullar cell; and type 2, as multiple suprabullar cells above the ethmoid bulla. In type 3 pneumatization, the second lamella extended into the frontal sinus forming a frontal bullar cell. Type 2 was the most prevalent (40.1 %), followed by types 1, 3, and 0 (24.3, 23.3, and 12.4 %, respectively). The distance between the second lamella and anterior ethmoid artery was 8.93, 8.30, 8.50, and 11.25 mm in types 0, 1, 2, and 3 pneumatization, respectively. No patients had intraoperative injuries in the anterior ethmoid artery or lateral lamella. The second lamella skull base attachment and suprabullar pneumatization pattern could be systematically classified and be a consistent landmark to identify the frontal sinus opening.

The aim of research was to study the dynamics of egg weight and quality indices during the period of storage (24 days) under different storage conditions: 30 eggs have been refrigerated at the temperature of + 4 0C and relative humidity of 65 % and 30 eggs have been stored in the warehouse at the average temperature of +16 0C and relative humidity of 65-70%. The eggs stored in the warehouse have lost more weight compared with the refrigerated ones regardless of weight category. Analyzing the indices of egg freshness, it can be concluded that the diameter of air cell has changed regardless of the egg storage method, thus chicken eggs of different categories had various values of this index. Egg white and yolk indices changed depending on the storage conditions and weight category. White indices of the refrigerated eggs ranged from 0.1 to 0.11 mm and yolk indices – 0.38 to 0.41 mm, while the eggs stored in the warehouse recorded the following values: white indices ranged from 0.08 to 0.09 mm and yolk indices – from 0.24 to 0.31 mm. Rezumat. Scopul cercetărilor a fost studiul dinamicii greutăţii şi indicilor de calitate a ouălor în perioada de păstrare în diferite condiţii. În studiu s-au folosit 60 de ouă pentru consum uman. Din numărul total de ouă, 30 au fost refrigerate la t de + 40C şi umiditatea relativă a aerului de 65%, iar 30 de ouă au fost păstrate la temperatura medie de +16 0C, umiditatea aerului variind între 65-70% . Ouăle au fost depozitate timp de 24 de zile. Ouăle de găină păstrate în depozit au pierdut din greutate mai mult în comparaţie cu cele refrigerate, indiferent de categoria de greutate. Analizând indicii prospeţimii ouălor, se poate conchide că diametrul camerei de aer a suferit schimbări indiferent de modul de păstrare a ouălor, astfel ouăle de găină din diferite categorii au avut acest indice diferit. Alţi indici după care se apreciază prospeţimea ouălor, cum sunt indicii albuşului şi gălbenuşului, au suferit modificări în funcţie de condiţiile de păstrare şi categoria de greutate. La ouăle de găină refrigerate, indicii albuşului au variat între 0,1 şi 0,11 mm; indicii gălbenuşului între 0,38 şi 0,41 mm, iar la ouăle de găină păstrate în depozit, indicii albuşului au variat între 0,08-0,09 mm; indicii gălbenuşului- 0,24-0,31 mm.

Objectives The aim of this study was to emphasize the necessity of a standard in segmentation threshold and algorithm for measuring volume and surface area of mastoid air cell system (MACS). Methods First, we obtained axial computed tomography scans of 54 normal temporal bones from 27 subjects. Then, we manipulated Hounsfield units (HU) image data in DICOM (digital imaging and communications in medicine) files directly using our program. The volume and surface area of MACS were computed and compared at segmentation thresholds (HU) from –700 to 0 at intervals of 50 using 2 algorithms; square pixel based (SP) algorithm and marching square (MS) algorithm. Results No significant difference was found between the volumes computed by SP and MS algorithms at each segmentation threshold. The surface area computed by SP algorithm, however, was significantly larger than that by MS algorithm. We could minimize this significant difference through a modification of the SP algorithm. As the lower HU threshold value was set, the smaller volume was measured. The surface area showed a plateau at a threshold of approximately –200 HU. The segmentation threshold had greater influence on the measured volume of MACS than the algorithm did. Conclusion A standard method for measuring volume and surface area of MACS is thought to be necessary. We suggest that the MS algorithm and –200 HU of the threshold could be a standard in the measurement of volume and surface area of MACS.

Highlights • The authors successfully treated the antrochoanal polyp with turbinoethmoidal osteoma by endoscopic sinus surgery. • The mucosal continuity between the antrochoanal polyp and the osteoma was identified., Introduction Antrochoanal polyps (ACPs) have several unique features that distinguish them from other nasal polyps. Despite many investigations, the pathogenesis of ACP has not yet been elucidated. Sinonasal osteoma is the most common type of tumor of the sinonasal tract and can be caused by trauma, infection and developmental anomaly. Presentation of case We report the case of a 35-year-old man with left nasal obstruction for more than 20 years. Examination revealed ACP concomitant with an osteoma that arose from the middle turbinate and ethmoid sinus. The osteoma had an air cell in its anterosuperior area and was in a position of being pulled downward. The intranasal part of the ACP covered the posterior area of the osteoma. Discussion Considering the radiological and surgical findings, the intranasal part of the ACP seems to have affected the turbinoethmoidal osteoma during its growth. Conclusion The authors describe a very rare condition in which an ACP was connected with a turbinoethmoidal osteoma.

The cycle stability of lithium negative electrodes for Li–air secondary batteries was studied under oxygen atmosphere using Li∣Li symmetric cells with three organic electrolyte solutions: 1.0 M LiCF3SO3/tetraglyme (G4), 1.0 M LiN(SO2CF3)2/G4, and 1.0 M LiNO3/G4. Of these, 1.0 M LiNO3/G4 showed excellent stability without dendrite deposition, even for increased dissolution/deposition capacity from 0.50 to 2.0 mAh cm−2. These results are considered to be due to the stable Li2O passivation layer that was formed, not only by the direct reaction with oxygen, but also by the action of NO3 − as an oxidant, which released NO2 − as a redox mediator. Li–O2 cells with 1.0 M LiNO3/G4 showed a clear charging voltage plateau at 3.7 V, which evidenced the redox mediator effect of NO2 −, and cell cycleability was enhanced to 25 cycles.

Dear Editor: In the article entitled “Facial Paralysis in Longitudinal versus Oblique and Otic-Sparing versus Non Otic-Sparing Temporal Bone Fracture” published in the Vol 34 No 2 issue of the Philippine Journal of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, the authors included an image (Figure 4) that was representative of an otic-disrupting fracture. The arrow clearly shows the fracture line running through the mastoid air cell system nearly parallel to the posterior external auditory canal wall and ending just posterior to the ossicular chain. However, the fracture line does not unequivocally appear to proceed medially towards the otic capsule, which is the densest portion of the temporal bone that surrounds the osseous labyrinth, and includes the cochlea, vestibule and semicircular canals. The otic capsule likewise is located within the petrous portion of the temporal bone.1 The otic capsule lies within the oval ring in the smaller figure above which is an enlarged image of the original figure in the article. This issue is relevant because the authors are classifying subjects according to the visual presence of a fracture that may or may not involve the otic capsule. Misidentification of the type of fracture in a representative image raises the question of a systematic misidentification in the entire data set, thus rendering the results of the study invalid.

In this work, a microfluidic Zin-Air cell operated with a flow-through concept was constructed electrodepositing zinc on carbon paper electrodes by chronoamperometry. Additionally, chemically obtained α-MnO2 and Mn3O4 spinel were used as cathodes, and the cell performance was also compared with benchmarked Pt/C. Zinc electrodeposition time, flow rate, KOH electrolyte concentration and cathodic material were the variables herein evaluated. Zinc at 60 min was the best anodic material, and the maximum cell performance (~450 mW cm-2) was achieved at 4 M KOH and 3 mL h-1. α-MnO2 and Mn3O4 spinel presented half-wave overpotentials of 92 and 127 mV in contrast with benchmarked Pt/C, and during cell evaluation, these materials displayed power densities of 308 and 317 mW cm-2, respectively.

A 31-year-old male presented with a history of chronic right-sided facial and mastoid tip pain with associated tinnitus and hearing loss. These symptoms were aggravated by the regular aeroplane trips he made to work as a “fly-in, fly-out” worker in regional Australia. Imaging revealed significant pneumocephalus secondary to mastoid air cell defects, which were repaired via a transmastoid approach. This is the fourth case of spontaneous otogenic pneumocephalus associated with air travel at altitude reported in the literature. This case is remarkable for the chronic nature of the symptoms, which were aggravated by the patient’s regular aeroplane travel. This has implications for occupations which require frequent flying in those patients who may be at risk.

Introduction: The environment of middle ear cavity gets regulated mostly by pneumatized mastoid air cell system (MACS). Many theories exist that details the process of pneumatization of this MACS. The nasal septal deviation (NSD) has been shown to be instrumental in influencing pneumatization of paranasal sinuses to varied degrees. The effect of NSD on the pneumatization of MACS remains questionable due to limited literature available. And so this study was done to find the relation between the side of NSD and extent of Pneumatization of MACS on that side by computerized tomographs of Paranasal sinus region. Subjects and Methods: 120 CT images of paranasal region from archives of radiology department were studied for NSD. The NSD was classified according to the nasal septal angle. The extent of pneumatization of mastoid region was studied and classified. The relation between severe NSD and extent of mastoid pneumatization was noted. Results: NSD was found to be right sided in 90% cases studied and 20, 45, 55 were seen belonging to group I, II and III NSD respectively. The mean NSA was found to be 13.5o. Mastoid region was observed to be hypo pneumatized in the side of NSD in 42 cases of group III NSD. Conclusion: The findings of the study puts forth the need for assessment of NSD and planning possible correction of NSD prior to middle ear and mastoid surgeries for successful results.

This paper describes a new vehicle seat containing an air cell embedded with urethane. This air cell can be used to control mechanical properties such as spring constants and damping coefficients by varying the air pressure. When the air cell is retrofitted in a vehicle seat, it is essential for us to analyze its vibration characteristics, which is the aim of this study. Herein, after the air cell is retrofitted in a vehicle seat, its vibration characteristics are examined by performing excitation experiments using the prototype seat. From the results of this experiment, the resonance frequency of the human dummy (45.6 kg) was found to be 6.0 Hz when the pressure within the air cell was 2 kPa. However, the resonance frequency of the human dummy was found to be 5.3 Hz when the pressure within the air cell was 10 kPa. These results indicate that the vibration characteristics of the prototype seat can be varied by controlling the pressure within the air cell.

Summary The lateral nasal wall attaches the nasal turbinates, which could be, either pneumatized, or paradoxically curved. The turbinate pneumatization–concha bullosausually indicates the pneumatization of the middle turbinate. However, concha bullosasuperior (CBS) is also, although rare, anatomic possibility of variation. We report here a case of unilateral giant septated CBS, which was not, to our knowledge, previously reported. The case was documented in Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). Subtle pneumatizations of inferior turbinates were found bilateral, as also were the middle conchae bullosae. The left concha bullosasuperior was very large (17.43/5.34 mm), dropping down between the left middle turbinate and the contralaterally deviated nasal septum, and contacting the paradoxical curvature of the middle turbinate on that side. An incomplete oblique septum divided it incompletely into anterior and posterior chambers, it was communicating with a posterior ethmoid air cell, and was draining in the superior meatus. Care should be taken not to misdiagnose a giant CBS as a middle turbinate pneumatization, in order not to misjudge surgical corridors. Therefore, a careful anatomic CT or CBCT diagnosis would be of use for the plan of treatment.

A detailed study of the condition of eggs was performed using tunable diode lasers to monitor free gas in hen eggs. We detected oxygen and water vapor signals from 13 unfertilized eggs and studied the growth of the egg air cell over a time period of 3 weeks. We also studied the gas exchange through the egg shell, which is of particular interest for fertilized eggs. Four fertilized and five unfertilized eggs were followed over 3 weeks, the hatching period for hen eggs, and significant variations were found both in time and for the two types of eggs. Our results indicate that the techniques could be developed for automatic control of egg freshness, as well as for monitoring the hatching progress of fertilized eggs.

Introduction: Multislice Computed Tomography (MCT) is the main radiographic examination to evaluate mastoid air cell system. Hounsfield Unit density (HU), determined by MCT is useful to evaluate mastoid pneumatization, but HU values in different genders, right/left mastoid sides, as well as their association with age have not been studied yet. Aim: To evaluate the difference in Hounsfield density values between genders as well as between right and left sides, and also to correlate HU with age. Materials and Methods: A total of 102 skull MCT examinations that included mastoid process of temporal bone were evaluated (47 from male and 55 from female patients). The HU was measured at mastoid cavity applying exclusively axial slices in a standardized region of interest. All statistical analyses were performed at a level of significance of 5%, using IBM SPSS Statistics 17, SPSS®, Inc, Chicago, IL. Linear regression was used to determine the relationship between age and HU; Non-parametric tests were performed to evaluate differences between right and left sides, as well as between genders. Results: No statistical significant differences was observed between left and right sides HU values (p-value=0.676) nor between male and female (p-value=0.155), according to Mann-Whitney test. Age was not correlated with HU values (p-value=0.06). Conclusion: Within the limitations of the present investigation, we concluded that the Mastoid Air Cells System (MACS) HU values do not vary among male and female individuals and left-right sides. Age is advocated to be associated with the volume of mastoid pneumatization, but it may not be related to differences in HU values.

Background To report an unusual case of compressive optic neuropathy secondary to a large onodi air cell. Method Case report. Results A 50 year-old gentlemen presented to the eye clinic with left eye painless loss of vision for one day. Visual acuity was counting finger in the left eye with a positive relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD). Dilated left fundus examination revealed a pale optic disc. A computed tomography of orbit and brain showed a large left sphenoid sinus with onodi-cell-like projection on the left superior margin of left optic canal impinging on the left optic nerve. He was referred to the otorhinolaryngology team and subsequently underwent left optic nerve decompression. Post-operatively, his left visual acuity improved to 6/60 with reversal of RAPD. Conclusion There are many causes of optic neuropathy and compressive optic neuropathy due to large onodi air cell is uncommon. Acute unilateral loss of vision heralds from a multitude of sinister causes and junior residents should be vigilant that onodi air cell pneumotisation could be one of them.

The market sales of premium ice cream have paralleled the growth in consumer desire for rich flavor and taste. Storage temperature is a major consideration in preserving the quality attributes of premium ice cream products for both the manufacturer and retailers during prolonged storage. We investigated the effect of storage temperature (-18℃, -30℃, -50℃, and -70℃) and storage times, up to 52 wk, on the quality attributes of premium ice cream. Quality attributes tested included ice crystal size, air cell size, melting resistance, and color. Ice crystal size increased from 40.3 μm to 100.1 μm after 52 wk of storage at -18℃. When ice cream samples were stored at -50℃ or -70℃, ice crystal size slightly increased from 40.3 μm to 57-58 μm. Initial air cell size increased from 37.1 μm to 87.7 μm after storage at -18℃ for 52 wk. However, for storage temperatures of -50℃ and -70℃, air cell size increased only slightly from 37.1 μm to 46-47 μm. Low storage temperature (-50℃ and -70℃) resulted in better melt resistance and minimized color changes in comparison to high temperature storage (-18℃ and -30℃). In our study, quality changes in premium ice cream were gradually minimized according to decrease in storage temperature up to-50℃. No significant beneficial effect of -70℃ storage was found in quality attributes. In the scope of our experiment, we recommend a storage temperature of -50℃ to preserve the quality attributes of premium ice cream.

Objectives/Hypothesis Current three-dimensional (3D) printed simulations are complicated by insufficient void spaces and inconsistent density. We describe a novel simulation with focus on internal anatomic fidelity and evaluate against template/identical cadaveric education. Study Design Research ethics board-approved prospective cohort study. Methods Generation of a 3D printed temporal bone was performed using a proprietary algorithm that deconstructs the digital model into slices prior to printing. This supplemental process facilitates removal of residual material from air-containing spaces and permits requisite infiltrative access to the all regions of the model. Ten otolaryngology trainees dissected a cadaveric temporal bone (CTB) followed by a matched/isomorphic 3D printed bone model (PBM), based on derivative micro-computed tomography data. Participants rated 1) physical characteristics, 2) specific anatomic constructs, 3) usefulness in skill development, and 4) perceived educational value. The survey instrument employed a seven-point Likert scale. Results Trainees felt physical characteristics of the PBM were quite similar to CTB, with highly ranked cortical (5.5 ± 1.5) and trabecular (5.2 ± 1.3) bone drill quality. The overall model was considered comparable to CTB (5.9 ± 0.74), with respectable air cell reproduction (6.1 ± 1.1). Internal constructs were rated as satisfactory (range, 4.9–6.2). The simulation was considered a beneficial training tool for all types of mastoidectomy (range, 5.9–6.6), posterior tympanotomy (6.5 ± 0.71), and skull base approaches (range, 6–6.5). Participants believed the model to be an effective training instrument (6.7 ± 0.68), which should be incorporated into the temporal bone lab (7.0 ± 0.0). The PBM was thought to improve confidence (6.7 ± 0.68) and operative performance (6.7 ± 0.48). Conclusions Study participants found the PBM to be an effective platform that compared favorably to CTB. The model was considered a valuable adjunctive training tool with both realistic mechanical and visual character. Level of Evidence NA Laryngoscope, 125:2353–2357, 2015

Pressure ulcers are hazardous to people with diminished sensory and motor functions who remain in the same position for a long time. An important reason for the occurrence of pressure ulcers is the inability of wheelchair users to make postural changes by themselves with no appropriate method of pressure release. In this study, we researched the effects of applying an air cell inflate-deflate alternating sequence cushion prototype to relieve pressure from tissue loaded areas. Moreover, the hypothesis that the alternating sequence could stimulate blood reperfusion in loaded tissues and redistribute interface pressure on support area was also tested. Ten healthy volunteers were recruited to try the prototype cushion for 65 min of continuous loading; 5 min on static mode and 60 min on alternating mode. This study was conducted on healthy people because their sensitivity allowed them to state clearly and in detail, in a feedback questionnaire, any discomfort experienced with the use of our cushion. In order to address our hypothesis, interface pressure, and bilateral ischial oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin were measured. After applying the alternating cushion, the interface pressure was redistributed over a larger contact area. Besides, blood perfusion was improved according to increments in oxygenated hemoglobin and decrements in deoxygenated hemoglobin of ischial regions during loaded condition. Feedback questionnaire showed that the participants did not feel pain or discomfort using the alternating cushion. The overall results showed positive effects on healthy tissue which has encouraged us to design a study involving subjects who use wheelchairs for mobility.

1. It has been reported that the increasing CO2 tension triggers the embryo to pip the air cell and emerge from the egg. However, the mechanism by which higher CO2 concentrations during the last few days of incubation affect chick physiology and the hatching process is unclear. This study investigated the effect of CO2 concentrations up to 1% during pipping, on the onset and length of the hatch window (HW) and chick quality. 2. Four batches of Ross 308 broiler eggs (600 eggs per batch) were incubated in two small-scale custom-built incubators (Petersime NV). During the final 3 d of incubation, control eggs were exposed to a lower CO2 concentration (0.3%), while the test eggs experienced a higher CO2 concentration programme (peak of 1%). 3. There were no significant differences in blood values, organ weight and body weight. There was also no difference in hatchability between control and test groups. However, a small increase in the chick weight and the percentage of first class chicks was found in the test groups. Furthermore, plasma corticosterone profiles during hatching were altered in embryos exposed to higher CO2; however, they dropped to normal levels at d 21 of incubation. Importantly, the hatching process was delayed and synchronised in the test group, resulting in a narrowed HW which was 2.7 h shorter and 5.3 h later than the control group. 4. These results showed that exposing chicks to 1% CO2 concentration during pipping did not have negative impacts on physiological status of newly hatched chicks. In addition, it may have a significant impact on the physiological mechanisms controlling hatching and have benefits for the health and welfare of chickens by reducing the waiting time after hatching.

Effects of maltogenic amylase on textural properties of dough and quality characteristics of white pan bread were investigated. White pan bread was prepared with four different levels of maltogenic amylase contents (M-1: 0.048 U/g, M-2: 0.060 U/g, M-3: 0.072 U/g, M-4: 0.084 U/g). The setback by amylograph for the control was 480.0±12.25 Brabender Unit (B.U.) while M-4 showed the a setback of 215.0±5.00 B.U. The absorption, mixing tolerance index, and stability by farinogram were not significantly different (P>0.05) for across all treatments. The area under the curve (135 min) by extensogram was higher than all samples. The texture profile analysis results showed that there was significant decreasing in hardness for the maltogenic amylase infused bread (P

Effects of individual protein sources or blends on microstructure and melt-down rates of ice cream were investigated. Ice creams were formulated with non-fat dry milk (NFDM), milk protein concentrate, whey protein isolate (WPI), or procream to total protein concentrations of 4–10%. Ice creams were also made with protein blends containing 4% protein from NFDM with additional WPI or procream to total protein concentrations of 6–10%. Mean ice crystal and air cell sizes and overrun were not significantly impacted by protein source, blend, or concentration. Partially-coalesced fat decreased with increasing protein content, except in ice creams made with only NFDM. Melt rate tended to increase with protein content, with the exception of ice creams made with procream, which gave rapid melt rates at all protein concentrations. Protein type, blend and concentration were hypothesized to affect the properties of the emulsion interface, leading to differences in partial coalescence and melt-down rates.

RESULTS: Mastoid air cell volume, as well as maxillary sinus volume, of the deviated side was smaller than that of the contralateral side, but these were not statistically significant. There was no correlation between NSA and volumes of mastoid air cell and the maxillary sinus. There also was no correlation between NSD/NC ratio and mastoid air cell and maxillary sinus volumes. Significant linear and growth regression was found between age and volume of the mastoid air cell and maxillary sinus but not between age and NSA and NSD/NC ratio. CONCLUSION: Mastoid air cell volume and maxillary sinus volume of the deviated side tended to be smaller than those of the contralateral side, which suggests that NSD can influence both aerations. However, because the degree of NSD did not correlate with the volumes of the mastoid air cell and maxillary sinus in this study, we should consider that further possible factors may be involved in both aerations.

Egg quality depends on many conditions, including diet and storage temperature. Consumers usually assess it by checking yolk colour. The aim of the study was to indicate the effects of storage periods (7, 14 and 21 days) and temperature (room and refrigerator) on egg quality parameters, especially yolk colour. The experiment was carried out with 150 eggs, which were collected from free-range Lohmann brown laying hens (42 weeks old) fed with or without 0.75% red pepper supplemented diets. The highest weight loss was observed in the eggs stored at room temperature (23 °C, 64% humidity) for 21 days. In addition, it was discovered that the highest air cell height (ACH) was detected in the eggs stored at room temperature for 14 and 21 days. Red pepper supplementation and storage time and temperature were found to have been effective on the Roche yolk colour fan values (RYCF), lightness (L*) and yellowness (b*). Additionally, red pepper supplementation had a significantly positive effect on the redness (a*) value of the yolk. However, no statistical difference in the a* value was determined between the fresh eggs and the stored eggs supplemented with red pepper. The supplementation of 0.75% red pepper as a natural colouring agent to the diets of free-range laying hens had a positive effect on the yolk colour, which is an important attribution for consumer perception. Furthermore, the colours of the yolks of eggs stored in the refrigerator for a week were not significantly different from the fresh ones. Consequently, the present study suggests feeding laying hens diets supplemented with 0.75% red pepper might be useful in improving yolk colour. The results indicate that the eggs stored in the refrigerator might be closer to the characteristics of fresh eggs. In contrast, eggs stored at room temperature showed more deterioration between treatments. Keywords: Colour evaluation methods, egg quality, free-range, yolk colour

SUMMARY – The aim of the study was to analyze zygomatic air cell defect (ZACD) incidence using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and validity of panoramic radiograph as a comparative method of ZACD diagnostics. The connection between ZACD incidence, age, left/right temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and comorbidity with diagnosis of TMJ disorder was analyzed. Panoramic radiographs and MRIs of 140 TMJs of 70 consecutive patients with previously confirmed TMJ diagnosis were compared in the study. A grading system (4-point scale from ‘0’ for absence to ‘3’ for most extended pneumatization) was used to determine low signal on MRIs as pneumatization of temporal bone. ZACD was diagnosed in 22 joints of 15 patients (incidence, 20.4%), with seven patients having bilateral appearance. In the joints of nine patients, ZACD was identified as extensive according to the grading scale. The validity of ZACD findings on panoramic radiographs compared with MRI findings yielded 0.45 sensitivity and 0.98 specificity. There was no relation (p>0.05) between comorbidity of ZACD and TMJ disorder, either by age or side of the body. More prevalent ZACD in our MRI analysis than in other researches based on panoramic radiographs could be explained by the expected superimposed osseous structures in the area of articular eminence.

To control the vibration of the occupant by road-surface condition, we suggest a new seat cushion material (UA cell) which enclosed foaming urethane in an air cell in this study. We clarify the vibration characteristics of the UA cells by the excitation experiments and derive the theoretical model of the vibration characteristics of the UA cell. From the results, we understood that the relationship the thickness of the UA cell and that of foaming urethane had an influence on the vibration characteristics of the UA cell. When the thickness of the UA cell is smaller than the thickness of foaming urethane, the UA cells exhibit the vibration characteristics of the parallel spring which is built in foaming urethane and the air cell. When the thickness of the UA cell is larger than the thickness of foaming urethane, the UA cells exhibit the vibration characteristics of the air cell.

Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is common surgery employed for the management of nasolacrimal duct obstruction and chronic dacryocystitis with a high success rate [1–8]. However, the failure rates can occur from 4 to 13 % [1, 9–11]. Many causes of failures can be attributed to ostium, the most common being scarring and cicatricial closure of the osteotomy site [9–12]. The other causes related to ostium include inadequate size, inappropriate location, intervening ethmoids, DCR to air cell, membranes over the internal common opening, granulomas, and sump syndrome [10, 12, 13]. Numerous studies in the past have focused on the size and measurement techniques of the ostium and patency tests [14–22]. It is amply evident that many finer physical and functional details of the ostium need to be evaluated postoperatively in an orderly manner to appreciate pathological behaviors early on and institute corrective measures toward prevention or treatment. This chapter presents a DCR ostium protocol for a detailed evaluation and also the DCR ostium or the DOS to standardize the evaluation.

Nonintrusive methods for characterizing food products are of increasing interest related to the greater awareness of food safety issues. Hen eggs are an important part in food consumption in most parts of the world. We have investigated an optical method utilizing tunable diode lasers for monitoring free gas in eggs. We show that oxygen signals, recorded around 760nm, increase steadily as eggs become older. Further, we investigated fertilized eggs, which show a quite different temporal behavior during the hatching time. The oxygen signal decreases here with time, while water vapor, recorded around 937nm, shows a steady increase. Conclusions regarding the size of the air cell and the oxygen availability in fertilized eggs are drawn. The technique might be developed for automatic control of egg freshness, as well as for assessing if eggs are fertilized or not. (Less)

Travel with long hours will create discomfort feeling for passenger especially express bus passenger. Long hour travel will create physiological stress on passenger. It may due to seat space limitation, noise, vibration, seat hardness as well as seat comfort. Seat comfort is a subjective feeling that related to psychological aspect of passenger. In this project, the bus passenger seat is integrated with air-based and gel-based material. In Malaysia, most of the express coaches are using polyurethane foam based cushion in the seat padding. This type of the seat padding may cause a bus passenger who sit for long journey will feel uncomfortable and fatigue. There are two main causes which lead to seating discomfort which is vibration and pressure distribution on the seat. The new design a bus passenger seat is using air-based cushion to improve the seating comfort. The air-based seat was validated by using MatLab SimuLINK software. In the model validation process, the parameters of air cell height gave effect on the pressure change rate of air cushion model. The comfortable level of the air cushion could be improved by reducing the pressure change rate and cell height.

UNLABELLED Commercial vanilla ice cream products from the United States (full fat, low fat, and nonfat) were analyzed for their structural, behavioral (i.e., melt rate and drip-through), compositional, and sensorial attributes. Mean size distributions of ice crystals and air cells, drip-through rates, percent partially coalesced fat, percent overrun and total fat, and density were determined. A trained panel carried out sensory analyses in order to determine correlations between ice cream microstructure attributes and sensory properties using a Spectrum(TM) descriptive analysis. Analyses included melt rate, breakdown, size of ice particulates (iciness), denseness, greasiness, and overall creaminess. To determine relationships and interactions, principle component analysis and multivariate pairwise correlation were performed within and between the instrumental and sensorial data. Greasiness and creaminess negatively correlated with drip-through rate and creaminess correlated with percent total fat and percent fat destabilization. Percent fat did not determine the melt rate on a sensorial level. However, drip-through rate at ambient temperatures was predicted by total fat content of the samples. Based on sensory analysis, high-fat products were noted to be creamier than low and nonfat products. Iciness did not correlate with mean ice crystal size and drip-through rate did not predict sensory melt rate. Furthermore, on a sensorial level, greasiness positively correlated with total percent fat destabilization and mean air cell size positively correlated with denseness. These results indicate that commercial ice cream products vary widely in composition, structure, behavior, and sensory properties. PRACTICAL APPLICATION There is a wide range of commercial ice creams in the United States market, ranging from full fat to nonfat. In this research we showed that these ice creams vary greatly in their microstructures, behaviors (the melt/drip-though, collapse, and/or stand up properties of ice cream products at ambient temperatures), and sensory properties.

Congenital cholesteatomas of mastoid origin are extremely rare. We reported one in 2007 and experienced an additional case. A male presented with a 5-month history of right-sided ear dis- charge. Computed tomography of the temporal bone showed a soft tissue density occupying the mastoid tip. At surgery, the cholesteatoma sac was completely isolated from the mastoid antrum and lateral air cell in the mastoid tip area. We now doubt the rarity of this entity. With a brief literature review, we consider how the cholesteatoma localizes to the tip of the mastoid bone. Korean J Audiol 2014;18(2):85-88

Background Zygomatic air cell defect (ZACD) is a normal radiographic occurrence and the clinical importance has been sparsely evaluated.

Dental panoramic radiograph serves as a radiograph to visualize the maxillae, the mandible and the surrounding structures fairly well. This radiograph depicts the normal anatomy as well as its variations. One among the many anatomical landmarks and their variations noted on this radiograph is the zygomatic air cell defect (ZACD). zygomatic air cell defect is the extension of mastoid air cells into the articular eminence and the zygomatic process of temporal bone, not crossing anteriorly, the zygomatico-temporal suture. This variant of normal anatomy was recognized as early as 1934 but recognition of the same on a dental panoramic radiograph was not until 1985 by Tyndall and Matteson. Following its recognition, a few case reports and systematic studies have been conducted. In spite of its recognition early in the century, not many anatomists, radiologists are aware of this entity and its importance.