Expert consensus on the diagnosis of isolated otolith dysfunction / 临床耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Isolated otolith dysfunction(iOD) involves a group of unexplained vestibular syndromes that manifest clinically as a sense of translation, tilting or floating, and blurred vision with head movement, with normal semicircular canal function but abnormal otolith function on laboratory vestibular testing. As vestibular medicine has gained widespread popularity in recent years, increasing attention has also been paid to iOD and case reports, clinical studies and diagnostic criteria have been published. However, there is no consensus document to guide the diagnosis of this disease in China. In this context, the Special Committee on Vertigo of China Medical Education Association organized a group of domestic experts in vestibular medicine and formulated this diagnostic consensus after thorough discussion based on the latest evidence in China and abroad, in order to promote the best clinical practice for iOD.

Effect of applying head-shaking maneuver before Epley maneuver in BPPV / Efeito da aplicação da manobra de balanço da cabeça antes da manobra de Epley na VPPB

Abstract Introduction: The Epley maneuver is applied in the treatment of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, the BPPV. However, dizziness and balance problems do not improve immediately after the treatment. Objective: In this study, the effectiveness of the head-shaking maneuver before the Epley maneuver was investigated in the treatment of BPPV. Methods: Between March 2020 and August 2020, ninety-six patients with posterior semicircular canal BPPV were analyzed prospectively. The patients were divided into two groups: patients who underwent the Epley maneuver only in the treatment (Group 1) and patients who underwent the Epley maneuver after the head-shaking maneuver (Group 2). The results of the Berg balance scale and dizziness handicap index were evaluated before the treatment and at the first week after the treatment. Results: The improvement in functional, emotional, and physical dizziness handicap index and Berg balance scale values after the treatment was found to be statistically significant in both groups. It was determined that the change in functional and physical dizziness handicap index and Berg balance scale values of the patients in Group 2 was statistically higher than those in Group 1. Although, the change in emotional dizziness handicap index values in Group 2 was higher than those in Group 1, no statistical significance was found between the groups. Conclusion: As a result of our hypothesis, we think that in the treatment of posterior semicircular canal BPPV, the otoliths adhered to the canal can be mobilized by the head-shaking maneuver, and this will contribute to the increase of the effectiveness of the Epley maneuver.

Resumo Introdução: A manobra de Epley é aplicada no tratamento da vertigem posicional paroxística benigna (VPPB). Entretanto, a tontura e os problemas de equilíbrio não melhoram imediatamente após o tratamento. Objetivo: Investigar a eficácia da manobra de balançar a cabeça antes da manobra de Epley no tratamento da VPPB. Método: De março de 2020 a agosto de 2020, 96 pacientes com VPPB de canal semicircular posterior foram analisados prospectivamente. Os pacientes foram divididos em dois grupos: pacientes que foram submetidos apenas à manobra de Epley no tratamento (Grupo 1) e pacientes que foram submetidos à manobra de Epley após a manobra de balanço da cabeça (Grupo 2). Os resultados da escala de equilíbrio de Berg e do dizziness handicap index foram avaliados antes do tratamento e na primeira semana após o tratamento. Resultados: A melhoria nos valores funcionais, emocionais e físicos do dizziness handicap index e da escala de equilíbrio de Berg após o tratamento foi estatisticamente significante em ambos os grupos. Foi determinado que a alteração nos valores funcionais e físicos do dizziness handicap indexe da escala de equilíbrio de Berg dos pacientes do Grupo 2 foi significantemente maior do que aqueles do Grupo 1. Embora a alteração nos valores do dizziness handicap index emocional no Grupo 2 tenha sido maior do que no Grupo 1, não houve significância estatística entre os grupos. Conclusão: Como resultado de nossa hipótese, acreditamos que no tratamento da VPPB do canal semicircular posterior os otólitos aderidos ao canal podem ser mobilizados através da manobra de balanço da cabeça, o que contribuirá para o aumento da eficácia da manobra de Epley.

Assessment of otolith function using vestibular evoked myogenic potential in women during pregnancy / Avaliação da função otolítica através do potencial evocado miogênico vestibular em mulheres durante a gravidez

Abstract Introduction: More than 50% of pregnant women experience dizziness frequently in the first two gestational trimesters. During pregnancy, the changes in the metabolism of hormones are responsible for the ovarian cycle resulting in either peripheral or central vestibular alterations. The need for the study is to focus on the effect of changes during pregnancy on the vestibular evoked myogenic potential, an electrophysiological measure that investigates functions of the otolith structures. Objectives: The aim is to investigate the vestibular evoked myogenic potential responses during the first trimester of pregnancy. Methods: A total of 17 pregnant women and 17 non-pregnant women with age matched took part in this study. The cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential were recorded from the ipsilateral sternocleridomastoid muscle and the ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential were recorded from contralateral extraocular muscle in both groups. Results: Peak to peak amplitude of cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential and ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential was found to be significantly reduced in the responses obtained from first-trimester pregnant women when compared to that of non-pregnant women. Conclusions: Vestibular evoked myogenic potential tests exhibits a clinically significant reduced peak to peak amplitude in the first trimester of pregnancy, which indicates dysfunction in the otolith reflex pathway.

Resumo Introdução: Mais de 50% das mulheres grávidas apresentam tonturas frequentes nos primeiros dois trimestres da gravidez. Durante a gestação, as mudanças no metabolismo dos hormônios são responsáveis pelo ciclo ovariano, resultam em alterações vestibulares periféricas ou centrais. A necessidade do estudo é enfocar o efeito das mudanças durante a gravidez sobre o potencial evocado miogênico vestibular, uma medida eletrofisiológica que investiga as funções das estruturas otolíticas. Objetivo: Investigar as respostas do potencial evocado miogênico vestibular no primeiro trimestre da gravidez. Método: Participaram deste estudo 17 mulheres grávidas e 17 não grávidas com idades pareadas. O potencial evocado miogênico vestibular cervical foi registrado a partir do músculo esternocleidomastóideo ipsilateral e o potencial evocado miogênico vestibular ocular foi registrado a partir do músculo extraocular contralateral em ambos os grupos. Resultados: A amplitude pico a pico do potencial evocado miogênico vestibular cervical e do potencial evocado miogênico vestibular ocular estava significativamente reduzida nas respostas obtidas de mulheres grávidas no primeiro trimestre de gestação quando comparadas a de mulheres não grávidas. Conclusão: Os testes de potencial evocado miogênico vestibular mostram uma redução clinicamente significativa na amplitude pico a pico no primeiro trimestre da gravidez, o que indica disfunção na via otolítica reflexa.

Efficacy of auricular acupoint bean-embedding therapy in the treatment of residual dizziness after successful reduction of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo and its effect on skin sympathetic response / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the efficacy of auricular acupoint bean-embedding therapy in the treatment of residual dizziness after successful reduction of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and its effect on skin sympathetic response.Methods:A total of 110 patients with residual dizziness after successful reduction of BPPV who were admitted to Wenzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine from January 2019 to May 2021 were included in this study. They were randomly divided into control and study groups, with 55 patients in each group. Patients in the control group were treated with drugs, and those in the study group were treated with auricular acupoint bean-embedding therapy. Before and after treatment, dizziness handicap inventory (DHI) score, activities-specific balance confidence (ABC) score, and Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) score were compared between the two groups. The latency and amplitude of sympathetic skin response (SSR) were measured.Results:After 15 days of treatment, DHI scores of all dimensions in the study group were significantly lower than those in the control group ( t = 16.13-20.62, all P < 0.05). ABC score in the study group was significantly higher than that in the control group [(87.90 ± 6.01) points vs. (80.55 ± 8.73) points, t = 3.10, P < 0.05). HAMA score in the study group was significantly lower than that in the control group [(7.85 ± 1.06) points vs. (13.30 ± 2.49) points, t = 8.43, P < 0.001]. The initial latency value of SSR in the study group was significantly higher than that in the control group [(1.95 ± 0.27) ms vs. (1.67 ± 0.21) ms, and the amplitude of SSR in the study group was significantly lower than that in the control group [(1.49 ± 0.15) mV vs. (1.70 ± 0.22) mV, t = 4.73, 4.04, both P < 0.001]. The incidence of adverse reactions in the study group was significantly lower than that in the control group [0.0% (0/55) vs. 10.9% (6/55), χ2 = 4.40, P < 0.05]. Conclusion:Auricular acupoint bean-embedding therapy can effectively alleviate the symptoms of dizziness after successful reduction of BPPV, improve patient's psychological status and autonomic nerve function, which is worthy of clinical promotion.

Discrimination of species and populations of the genus Cichla (Cichliformes: Cichlidae) in rivers of the Amazon basin using otolithic morphometry

ABSTRACT The genus Cichla is a highly diverse group, with 16 species already described. Externally, some species are very similar and discriminating between them may be very difficult. Nevertheless, discrimination of fish stocks is essential for management purposes. Morphometric analyses of otoliths have been successfully used to distinguish species and fish stocks, especially in marine environments. This study evaluated whether sagittal otolith shape can be used to discriminate among the species Cichla temensis, C. monoculus, and C. orinocensis, as well as within populations of C. temensis in rivers of the Amazon. Shape indices and Fourier coefficients were used to describe the shape of the otoliths. Among the groups of species, the morphology of the sagittal otolith of C. temensis was totally distinct from the species C. monoculus and C. orinocensis. While among populations of C. temensis, individuals from the Negro and Jatapú Rivers were different, regardless of the methods used. These results confirm the ability to differentiate species and populations by using the morphology of otoliths. However, more research is needed to verify the role of genetic versus environmental and biotic effects, and thus be able to explain the discrimination observed in otoliths.

RESUMO O gênero Cichla é bastante diverso, com 16 espécies descritas. Algumas espécies são externamente muito similares e sua discriminação pode ser bastante difícil. Ao mesmo tempo, a discriminação de estoques pesqueiros é essencial para propostas de manejo. Análises morfométricas em otólitos têm sido utilizadas com sucesso para a distinção de espécies e estoques pesqueiros, principalmente em ambientes marinhos. Este estudo avaliou se o formato do otólito sagittal pode ser utilizado para discriminar entre espécies Cichla temensis, C. monoculus e C. orinocensis, bem como dentro de populações de C. temensis em diferentes rios amazônicos. Índices de forma e coeficientes de Fourier foram utilizados para descrever a forma dos otólitos. Dentre as espécies, a morfologia do otólito sagittal do C. temensis mostrou ser totalmente distinta das espécies C. monoculus e C. orinocensis. Enquanto no grupo das populações de C. temensis, os indivíduos dos rios Negro e Jatapú mostraram-se diferentes independente dos métodos utilizados. Esses resultados confirmam a capacidade de diferenciação de espécies e populações através da morfologia dos otólitos. No entanto, são necessárias mais pesquisas para verificar o papel dos efeitos genéticos em comparação aos efeitos ambientais e bióticos para explicar a discriminação observada nos otólitos.

Using otolith weight to predict the age of different stocks of Sperata aor (Siluriformes: Bagridae) from the River Ganga

Estimation of accurate fish age is considered as an essential step for the understanding of life history characteristics, population dynamics, and the management of the fisheries resources. The otolith weight keeps on increasing because of continuous deposition of material on the otolith surface; therefore, otolith measurements are successfully used to infer fish age. The present study was conducted to estimate the relationship between otolith weight and observed age (estimated by counting annuli on the sectioned otoliths) for the stocks of Sperata aor. A total of 315 samples were collected from January 2016 to April 2017 from three different stocks of S. aor i.e. Narora-Kanpur, Varanasi and Bhagalpur from the River Ganga. Linear regression analysis was applied between otolith weight and observed age to predict the age of the fish of each stock from otolith weight. Significant relationships between otolith weight and fish age were observed for the three stocks of the selected fish species from the River Ganga (R2 > 0.9, P 0.05). Overall, 88.5, 88.8, and 87.2 % of the predicted ages were correctly classified to their observed ages for Narora-Kanpur, Varanasi, and Bhagalpur stock, respectively. Thus, it can be concluded that the relationship between otolith weight and fish age can provide a surrogate method of age estimation, and can be used to examine the age structure of the three stocks of S. aor from the River Ganga.

La estimación precisa de la edad de peces es considerada un paso esencial para la evaluación de su historia natural, dinámica de población y manejo de pesquerías. El otolito sigue creciendo debido a la continua deposición de material en la superficie; por lo tanto, las medidas del otolito son un buen indicador para inferir la edad del pez. En este estudio se evaluó la relación entre el peso de los otolitos y la edad observada (estimada contando los anillos de los otolitos seleccionados) de individuos de Sperata aor. En total se recolectaron 315 muestras entre enero 2016 y abril 2017 en tres zonas de S. aor en el Río Ganga (Narora-Kanpur, Varanasi y Bhagalpur). Se aplicó un análisis de regresión lineal entre el peso de los otolitos y la edad observada para predecir la edad de los peces de cada zona a partir del peso de los otolitos. Se observaron relaciones significativas entre el peso de los otolitos y la edad de los peces de las zonas del Río Ganga (R2 > 0.9, P 0.05). En general, 88.5, 88.8 y 87.2% de las edades predichas se clasificaron correctamente con respecto a las edades observadas para Narora-Kanpur, Varanasi y Bhagalpur, respectivamente. Se puede concluir que la relación entre el peso de los otolitos y la edad de los peces puede proveer un método para la estimación de la edad y puede ser usado para examinar la estructura de edades en tres stocks de S. aor en el Río Ganga.

Proposal on the Diagnostic Criteria of Definite Isolated Otolith Dysfunction

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Dizzy patients with abnormal otolith function tests, despite a normal caloric response, are defined as having specific (isolated) otolith organ dysfunction. This study was performed to compare the differences in clinical presentation between isolated otolith dysfunction (iOD) patients with lab- and Sx-based iOD group and lab-based iOD symptoms. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The medical records of 23 iOD patients with normal caloric response but abnormal cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP), ocular VEMP, or subjective visual vertical were reviewed. Non-spinning vertigo was considered as otolith-related symptoms. The patients’ age, onset of dizziness, Numeric Rating Scale on the severity of dizziness, and concomitant vestibular disorders were analyzed. RESULTS: Patients in the lab-based iOD group were significantly older than those in the lab- and Sx-based iOD group. Known vestibular disorders were significantly more common in the lab-based iOD group (83.3%) compared to the lab- and Sx-based iOD group (18.2%). Despite the normal caloric response, catch-up saccade was found in the video head impulse test in more than half (54.5%) of the lab-based iOD group patients. There was no catch-up saccade in the lab- and Sx-based iOD group. There were no significant differences in gender ratio, frequency of dizziness attacks, and duration of illness. CONCLUSIONS: We propose new definitions of definite iOD (lab- and Sx-based iOD) and probable iOD (lab- or Sx-based iOD). These new definitions may help researchers to identify patients who are more likely to have true iOD, and facilitate comparisons of results between different studies.

Relationships between fish and otolith dimensions of Pomatomus saltatrix (Linnaeus, 1766) (Perciformes: Pomatomidae) in southeastern Brazil

The bluefish, Pomatomus saltatrix (Linnaeus, 1766), was used as a species-specific model to study morphometric relationships between otolith size and relative growth variables. Length-weight relationships between Otolith (Length-OL, Height-OH, and Weight-OW) and fish measurements (Total Length-TL and Total Weight-TW) were determined for fishes captured monthly during the year 2015 off the southeastern coast of Brazil. The ANCOVA and Kruskal-Wallis analysis did not indicate significant differences in the relative growth constants between sexes and length frequency distributions (p > 0.05). The condition factor also did not present significant differences between sexes, and right and left otolith measurements (p > 0.05). A total of 398 specimens were sampled: TL = 43.6-67.0 cm, TW = 365-2400 g, OL = 9.65-15.25 mm, OH = 3.65 - 5.45 mm and OW = 0.03-0.11 g. The LWR for grouped sexes was TW = 0.050TL2.55 and otoliths OW = 6.17E-05OL2.59. The best adjustments were TL vs OL (r2 = 0.90); OL vs OW (r2 = 0.90); TW vs OW (r2 = 0.81); and TW vs OL (r2 = 0.80). These results showed that such relationships are helpful tools for predicting the fish size and weight from otoliths, which may be used in food habits and paleontology studies, and other fisheries management applications.(AU)

A anchova, Pomatomus saltatrix (Linnaeus, 1766), foi usada como modelo espécie-específico de relações morfométricas de otólitos e variáveis de crescimento relativo. As relações peso-comprimento entre otólito (comprimento-CO, altura-AO e peso-PO) e tamanho do peixe (comprimento total-CT e peso total-PT) foram determinadas para indivíduos capturados mensalmente durante o ano de 2015 na costa sudeste do Brasil. As análises de ANCOVA e Kruskal-Wallis não indicaram diferenças significativas para as constantes de crescimento relativo entre os sexos e distribuições de frequência de comprimento (p> 0,05). O fator de condição também não apresentou diferenças significativas entre os sexos, e medidas do otólito direito e esquerdo (p > 0,05). Um total de 398 espécimes foram amostrados: CT = 43,6-67,0 cm e PT = 365-2400 g. A RPC para peixes foi PT = 0.050CT2,55 e para os seus otólitos foi PO = 6.17E-05CO2,59, CO = 9.65-15.25 mm, AO = 3.65 - 5.45 mm and PO = 0.03-0.11 g. Os melhores ajustes foram observados para CT vs CO (r2 = 0,90); CO vs PO (r2 = 0,90); PT vs PO (r2= 0,81) e PT vs CO (r2 = 0,80). Os resultados mostraram que essas relações são ferramentas úteis na geração de estimativas de tamanho e peso dos peixes a partir dos otólitos, permitindo a sua aplicação em estudos em outras áreas, incluindo hábitos alimentares, paleontologia e manejo da pesca.(AU)

The sagittal otolith morphology observations of sturgeon species in Iranian waters of the Caspian Sea / Observaciones sobre la morfologia de otolitos sagitales de varias especies de esturion en las aguas iranies del Mar Caspio

The morphology of the sagittal otolith of Great sturgeon (Huso huso), Persian sturgeon (Acipenser persicus) and starry sturgeon (Acipenser stellatus) species from the Iranian waters of the Caspian Sea were studied. Three otolith measurements and three shape indices were recorded from 90 sturgeon specimens. Fish biometry traits were measured and relationship between sagittal otolith length (OL)-total length (TL), and sagittal otolith weight (WO)-body weight of fish (BW) were estimated. Sagittal otolith has a triangle shape with irregular edges in great sturgeon, elongate triangle with smooth surfaces in Persian sturgeon, and relatively circular with smooth surface in starry sturgeon. The ratio of the WO/BW in starry sturgeon was significantly higher ( P <0.05) than great sturgeon and Persian sturgeon. There is a direct proportional relationship between BW and WO in Persian sturgeon (r2=0.7), great sturgeon (r2=0.9) and starry sturgeon (r2=0.9). Regression line slope for these relationships in starry sturgeon were less than Persian sturgeon and great sturgeon. Furtheremore, there is significant linear regression between OL-TL. Results showed that it is possible to identify Caspian sturgeon species based on body morphometry and sagittal otolith characteristics.

Se estudió la morfología del otolito sagital del gran esturión (Huso huso), el esturión persa (Acipenser persicus) y el esturión estrellado (Acipenser stellatus) de las aguas iraníes del Mar Caspio. Se registraron tres mediciones de otolitos y tres índices de forma, de 90 especímenes de esturión. Se midieron los rasgos de la biometría de los peces y se estimó la relación entre la longitud del otolito sagital (LO) - longitud total (LT) y el peso del otolito (PO) - peso del cuerpo de los peces (PC). El otolito sagital tiene forma de triángulo con márgenes irregulares en el gran estu- rión (Huso huso), triángulo alargado con superficies lisas en estu- rión persa y relativamente circular con superficie lisa en esturión estrellado. La relación del PO / PC en el esturión estrellado fue significativamente mayor (P <0.05) que el gran esturión y el estu- rión persa. Existe una relación directamente proporcional entre PC y PO en el esturión persa (r2 = 0.7), el gran esturión (r2 = 0.9) y el esturión estrellado (r2 = 0.9). La pendiente de la línea de regresión para estas relaciones en el esturión estrellado fue menor que el esturión persa y el gran esturión. Por otra parte, existe una regresión lineal significativa entre LO-LT. Los resultados mostraron que es posible identificar especies de esturión del Caspio basadas en la morfometría corporal y las características del otolito sagital.

The Effects of the Vestibular Rehabilitation on the Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Recurrence Rate in Patients with Otolith Dysfunction

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Although repositioning maneuvers have shown remarkable success rate in treatments of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), the high recurrence rate of BPPV has been an important issue. The aims of present study were to examine the effects of otolith dysfunction on BPPV recurrence rate and to describe the effect of vestibular rehabilitation exercises on BPPV recurrence in BPPV patients with concomitant otolith dysfunction. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Forty-five BPPV patients included in this study (three groups). Patients in group 1 had no otolith dysfunction and patients in groups 2 and 3 had concomitant otolith dysfunction. Otolith dysfunction was determined with ocular/cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential (oVEMP and cVEMP) abnormalities. Epley’s maneuver was performed for the patients in all groups but patients in group 3 also received a 2-month vestibular rehabilitation program (habituation and otolith exercises). RESULTS: This study showed that BPPV recurrent rate was significantly higher in patients with otolith dysfunction in comparison to the group 1 (p < 0.05). Vestibular rehabilitation resulted in BPPV recurrence rate reduction. Utricular dysfunction showed significant correlation with BPPV recurrence rate. CONCLUSIONS: Otolith dysfunction can increase BPPV recurrence rate. Utricular dysfunction in comparison to saccular dysfunction leads to more BPPV recurrence rate. Vestibular rehabilitation program including habituation and otolith exercises may reduce the chance of BPPV recurrence.

Age and growth of the Amazonian migratory catfish Brachyplatystoma rousseauxii in the Madeira River basin before the construction of dams

The goliath catfish Brachyplatystoma rousseauxii has crucial economical and ecological functions in the Amazon basin. Although its life history characteristics have been studied in the Amazon, there is little information in the Madeira River basin, which holds genetically distinct populations and where dams were recently built. Using fish collected in Bolivia, Brazil and Peru, this study provides a validation of growth rings deposition and details the growth patterns of B. rousseauxii in the Madeira before the dams' construction. Age structure and growth parameters were determined from 497 otolith readings. The species exhibits two growth rings per year and sampled fish were between 0 and 16 years old. In the Brazilian portion of the basin, mainly young individuals below 5 years old were found, whereas older fish (> 5 years) were caught only in the Bolivian and Peruvian stretches, indicating that after migrating upstream to reproduce, adults remain in the headwaters of the Madeira River. Comparing with previous publications, B. rousseauxii had a slower growth and 20 cm lower maximum standard length in the Madeira River than in the Amazon River. This study provides a baseline for future evaluation of changes in population dynamics of the species following dams closure.(AU)

Brachyplatystoma rousseauxii é um bagre de importante papel econômico e ecológico na bacia amazônica. Embora existam estudos acerca de sua história de vida na Amazônia, há pouca informação para a bacia do rio Madeira, onde existem populações geneticamente distintas e recentemente foram construídas duas usinas hidrelétricas. Este estudo validou a deposição das marcas de crescimento e detalhou os padrões de desenvolvimento dessa espécie no rio Madeira, antes da construção das barragens. As coletas abrangeram os territórios brasileiro, boliviano e peruano, com estrutura etária e parâmetros de crescimento determinados a partir de 497 otólitos. Foram observadas duas marcas de crescimento por ano e indivíduos entre 0 e 16 anos. Na porção brasileira foram encontrados principalmente jovens menores de 5 anos, enquanto que os peixes mais velhos (> 5 anos) foram capturados apenas na Bolívia e Peru, indicando que após a migração reprodutiva, os adultos permanecem nas cabeceiras do rio Madeira. Comparando com estudos prévios realizados na calha principal do rio Amazonas, B. rousseauxii apresentou crescimento mais lento e comprimento padrão máximo inferior de 20 cm no rio Madeira. Este estudo fornece uma base para a avaliação futura das mudanças na dinâmica populacional desse espécie após o implementação das barragens.(AU)

Discrimination of habitat use between two sympatric species of mullets, Mugil curema and Mugil liza (Mugiliformes: Mugilidae) in the rio Tramandaí Estuary, determined by otolith chemistry

Two sympatric species of marine mullets, Mugil curema and M. liza, use the rio Tramandaí Estuary as nursing grounds. When two closely related species are sympatric, various mechanisms may permit their coexistence, including spatial or temporal segregation that results in the divergent use of the resources for which they compete. To investigate the spatial segregation, we used otolith chemistry inferred through laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Our results indicate that in the rio Tramandaí Estuary, M. curema is associated with high salinity waters and can be classified as a Marine Migrant in the Marine Estuarine-opportunist subcategory. Mugil liza is associated with lower salinity and can be classified as a Marine Migrant in the Estuarine Dependent subcategory. The intra-specific variation in estuarine habitat use indicates that the migratory behaviors in mullets are far more complex than previously known.(AU)

Duas espécies de tainha simpátricas, Mugil curema e M. liza, usam o estuário do Rio Tramandaí como zona de berçário. Quando espécies do mesmo gênero são simpátricas, vários mecanismos podem permitir sua coexistência, incluindo segregação espacial ou temporal que resultam no uso distinto dos recursos pelos quais elas competem. Para investigar a segregação espacial nós usamos a análise de elementos químicos em otólitos inferidos por espectrometria de massas através de plasma indutivamente acoplado com amostras extraídas a laser (LA-ICPMS). Mugil curema está associada a águas de alta salinidade podendo ser classificada como Marinho Migrante sub-categoria Marinha estuarina-oportunista. Mugil liza está associada a águas menos salinas, devendo ser classificada como Marinha Migrante sub-categoria Estuarina Dependente. A variação intraespecífica no uso do habitat estuarino indica um comportamento migratório mais complexo que o previsto em tainhas.

Otolith morphometry provides length and weight predictions and insights about capture sites of Prochilodus lineatus (Characiformes: Prochilodontidae)

Here we choose the sábalo Prochilodus lineatus, to answer the following questions: How the otolith length and weight are correlated to fish measurements (length and weight)? How reliable are the otoliths measurements to predict the length and age of P. lineatus? Finally, we propose predictive equations of the length and weight of the fish using length and weight of the otolith. The otoliths were sampled from individuals collected in the Upper Paraná River floodplain during 2012 and 2013 years. The relationships among the otolith measurements and both length and weight of the fish were performed using linear regressions. To test whether the length and weight of the otolith differ between the sampled sites, Variance Analysis was performed. Finally, we made analysis of Kruskal-Wallis to verify if the measurements obtained through the otoliths could be used to distinguish the age of the fish. We demonstrate that the length and weight of the otolith are good proxies to predict the length and weight of the fish. Although some ages were statistically different, this result does not support the idea that the age of the fish can be accurately inferred only using otolith measures.(AU)

Neste trabalho o curimba Prochilodus lineatus foi utilizado para responder as seguintes questões: Como o comprimento e o peso dos otólitos são correlacionados com o comprimento e o peso do peixe? Até que ponto as medidas dos otólitos são confiáveis para predizer a idade do P. lineatus? Finalmente, nós propomos equações preditivas do comprimento e peso do peixe utilizando o comprimento e o peso do otólito. Os otólitos foram amostrados de indivíduos coletados na planície de inundação do alto rio Paraná durante os anos de 2012 e 2013. As relações entre as medidas dos otólitos e o peso e comprimento do peixe foram verificadas utilizando regressões lineares. Para testar se o comprimento e o peso do otólito diferem entre locais foram utilizadas Análises de Variância e para testar se as medidas dos otólitos são suficientes para distinguir as idades foram utilizados testes de Kruskal-Wallis. Nós demonstramos que o comprimento e o peso do otólito são bons preditores do comprimento e peso do peixe. Embora algumas idades foram estatisticamente diferentes entre as medidas dos otólitos, esse resultado não suporta a ideia de que a idade do peixe pode ser inferida de forma acurada somente utilizando as medidas dos otólitos.(AU)

Plasticity in the shape and growth pattern of asteriscus otolith of black prochilodus Prochilodus nigricans (Teleostei: Characiformes: Prochilodontidae) freshwater Neotropical migratory fish

Using morphometric measurements and wavelets functions, the asterisci otoliths of curimatã, Prochilodus nigricans were analysed to identify the variation in shape and growth increment of individuals from Solimões, Japurá and Negro rivers of the Amazon basin, Brazil. The morphometric and morphological analyses did not reveal evidences of population segregation among rivers, but variations were found in the estimation of otolith growth increment. Also, the otolith shape showed a high variability between individuals, identifying four morphotypes. Morphotype 1 shows a more oval shape with a posterior zone clearly rounded; Morphotype 2 shows the posterior zone rounded, but the anterior end is more elongated; Morphotype 3 shows a completely different shape, elliptic-pentagonal and Morphotype 4 shows the posterior zone rounded, but the anterior end is more elongated and it is the pattern with antirostrum and rostrum more pointed and a deep notch. Therefore, the otolith shape exhibited a phenotypic plasticity that it was not associated with the metabolism of otolith growth. Whereas the otolith shape indicated a homogeneity in the sound perception through Amazon basin, the growth rates revealed an adaptive mechanism to environmental conditions or migratory process of this species.(AU)

Medidas e funções wavelets dos otólitos asteriscus de curimatã, Prochilodus nigricans foram analisados para identificar a variação da forma e do incremento de crescimento dos indivíduos dos rios Solimões, Japurá e Negro da bacia Amazônica, Brasil. As análises morfométricas e morfológicas não revelaram evidências de segregação populacional entre os rios, mas foram encontradas variações na estimativa do incremento do crescimento dos otólitos. Além disso, a forma do otólito mostrou uma alta variabilidade entre os indivíduos, identificando quatro morfotipos. O Morfotipo 1 mostra uma forma mais oval, com zona posterior levemente arredondada; Morfotipo 2 mostra a zona posterior arredondada, mas a extremidade anterior é mais alongada; Morfotipo 3 mostra uma forma completamente diferente, elíptico-pentagonal e Morfotipo 4 mostra a zona posterior arredondada, mas a extremidade anterior mais alongada e ele tem padrão com antirostrum e rostrum mais pontiagudos e abertura profunda. Portanto, a forma do otólito exibiu uma plasticidade fenotípica que não foi associada ao metabolismo do crescimento do otólito. No entanto a forma do otólito indicou uma homogeneidade através da percepção do som na bacia Amazônica, e as taxas de crescimento revelaram um mecanismo adaptativo às condições ambientais ou ao processo migratório da espécie.(AU)

Impacto de las Maniobras de Reposicionamiento en el grado de discapacidad de pacientes con Vértigo Posicional Paroxístico Benigno del conducto semicircular posterior

Introducción. El Vértigo Posicional Paroxístico Benigno (VPPB) del canal semicircular posterior es una enfermedad crónica que afecta severamente la calidad de vida de los pacientes que lo sufren. Para su manejo existen las Maniobras de Reposicionamiento, que son una serie de ejercicios secuenciales de la cabeza en 4 posiciones. El propósito de la maniobra es reposicionar los otolitos desde el conducto semicircular posterior dentro del vestíbulo a los sitios de donde migraron para dejar de producir vértigo. Permaneciendo en cada posición aproximadamente 30 segundos. Las maniobras han demostrado gran eficacia a corto plazo. Los resultados son medibles por medio de un cuestionario conocido como Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI). Objetivos: Medir el impacto de las maniobras de reposicionamiento en la discapacidad en los pacientes con Vértigo Posicional Paroxístico Benigno del conducto semicircular posterior, mediante el uso del DHI. Metodología. Es un estudio comparativo que utiliza la T de Student para muestras pareadas donde cada paciente es su propio control, se tomó una muestra de 20 pacientes diagnosticados con Vértigo Posicional Paroxístico Benigno del conducto semicircular posterior que serán tratados con maniobras de reposicionamiento, serán evaluados mediante la herramienta (DHI) que será completada por los pacientes al inicio del estudio, al día 7 y día 30, luego de realizadas las Maniobras de Reposicionamiento. Resultados: Las mujeres son las más afectadas por el (VPPB) del canal semicircular posterior en una relación de 2.1 aproximadamente. El grado de discapacidad fue medido por el resultado del DHI, el cual muestra para los días 1, 7, y 30 una media de 50.4, 30.4 y 24.2 respectivamente. La escala con mayor punteo durante los días 1, 7, y 30 fue la escala funcional mostrando una media de 20, 12.2, y 9.5 respectivamente. Las diferencias entre las medias fueron estadísticamente significativas. (p= 0.00006, 0.000002 y 0.03701). Conclusiones: El padecimiento de VPPB del conducto semicircular posterior afecta la calidad en el estilo de vida de las personas. Las maniobras de reposicionamiento son estadísticamente significativas para disminuir la incapacidad generada por el vértigo posicional paroxístico benigno del conducto semicircular posterior por lo que es importante acudir rápidamente al médico especialista cuando se manifiesten los primeros signos y evitar así aumentar la discapacidad total asociada al vértigo. Palabras Clave: Vértigo Posicional Paroxístico (VPPB), otolitos, Dizziness Handycap Inventory (DHI).

Introduction. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) of the posterior semicircular canal is a chronic disease severely affecting quality of life. Repositioning Maneuvers is a way of relieving it, consisting of a series of sequential exercises of the head into 4 positions. The purpose of the maneuver is to reposition the otoliths from the posterior semicircular canal inside the lobby to the sites where they migrated to stop producing vertigo. Each position has to remain for approximately 30 seconds. The maneuvers have proven to be highly effective in the short term. The results are measurable by means of a questionnaire known as Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI). Objectives: To measure the impact of repositioning maneuvers on disability in patients with BPPV of posterior semicircular canal, using the DHI. Methods: A comparative study using T-test for paired samples where each patient is his own control was used in a sample of 20 patients diagnosed with BPPV of posterior semicircular canal were studied and treated with repositioning maneuvers. Results were evaluated by DHI and ran in day 1, day 7 and 30 after Repositioning maneuvers performed. Results: Females are most affected by BPPV in a ratio of approximately 2.1. The degree of disability was measured by the result of DHI, which shows for days 1, 7, and 30 an average of 50.4, 30.4 and 24.2 respectively. The scale with a higher score were days 1 and 7 then showing a marked decreased on day 30. Mean results were the 20, 12.2 and 9.5 respectively. The differences between the means were statistically significant. (P = 0.000062, 0.000002 and 0.037010). Conclusions: BPPV affects the quality of life. Repositioning maneuvers are statistically significant to reduce the disability caused by BPPV of the posterior semicircular canal so, it is important to quickly see a specialist when first signs manifest and that way avoid increasing the total disability associated with vertigo. Keywords: Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), Otolith, Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI)

Correlation analysis of the incidence and head position in posterior semicircular canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo / 中国耳鼻咽喉头颈外科

OBJECTIVE To verify the relationship between the incidence and habitual head position in bed in posterior semicircular canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo(PSC-BPPV), and to provide practical information for the prevention and treatment of BPPV.METHODS There were 208 patients with PSC-BPPV were included in this study. The relationship of affected semicircular canals in PSC-BPPV patients and the habitual head positions in bed were analyzed.RESULTS There were 125 patients who had always taken the same position (right side lying in 85 cases, left side lying in 40 cases), and 83 cases in different positions. The affected PSC-BPPV were consonant with the head positions (Kappa=0.401). With Spearman correlation analysis, we can find that there was correlation between the affected PSC-BPPV and the head position(r=0.203) and age(r=-0.179,P<0.05), but there were no significant correlation with gender.CONCLUSION Habitual head position causes otoliths deposit in PSC at the lowest level during bedrest, and was one of the main factors leading to the ipsilateral PSC-BPPV.

Morphological and biometrical characteristics on otolith of Barbus tauricus Kessler, 1877 on light and scanning electron microscope / Características morfológicas y biométricas de los otolitos de Barbus tauricus Kessler, 1877 bajo microscopio de luz y electrónico de barrido

The otolith morphology, biometry and the relationship between the otolith size and fish length were examined. The weight, length, width, area and perimeter were recorded for each pair of otoliths. The values of form factor (FF), roundness (RD), aspect ratio (AR), circularity (C), rectangularity (R) and elipticity (E) were calculated and the relationships between otolith length (OL) and shape indices were showed with graphics. According to paired t-test results, difference between right and left otoliths was important statistically (P<0.05), except otolith length. It is the first time, the difference of otolith variables were observed not only right and left pairs but also females and males of fish a member of Cyprinidae. While the otolith weight had the lowest coefficient of determination (r2) such as 0.69; 0.59; 0.65, otolith length had the highest 0.80; 0.81; 0.80, for female, male and all specimens, respectively. In addition, SEM images were firstly shown for otoliths of B. tauricus to determine the otolith morphology.

Se examinó la morfología de los otolitos, su biometría y la relación entre el tamaño de ellos y la longitud de los peces. Se registró el peso, longitud, grosor, área y perímetro para cada par de otolitos. Se calcularon y se identificaron en los gráficos los valores de factor de forma, redondez, relación de aspecto, circularidad, rectangularidad, elipticidad y las relaciones entre la longitud del otolito y los índices de la forma. De acuerdo con los resultados, la diferencia entre otolitos derechos e izquierdos fue estadísticamente significativo (P<0,05), excepto la longitud del otolito. Esta es la primera vez que se observa la diferencia de las variables de otolitos, no sólo ente los pares de derecha e izquierda, sino también entre peces hembras y machos. Mientras que el peso de los otolitos tuvo el menor coeficiente de determinación (R2), tales como 0,69; 0,59; 0,65, la longitud de los otolitos presentó un R2 más alto: 0,80; 0,81; 0.80, para hembras, machos y todas las muestras, respectivamente. Además, las imágenes de miscroscopía electrónica de barrido son las primeras en mostrar los otolitos de B. tauricus para determinar la morfología de éstos.

Is otolith microchemistry (Sr: Ca and Ba:Ca ratios) useful to identify Mugil curema populations in the southeastern Caribbean Sea?

Abstract The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential use of otolith microchemistry (Sr:Ca and Ba:Ca ratios) to identify silver mullet, Mugil curema, populations in Southeastern Caribbean Sea. Fish samples were collected in 7 areas of Nueva Esparta State (Venezuela). The otolith Sr:Ca and Ba:Ca ratios and water Sr:Ca were determined (by ICP-OES and EDTA volumetric method). Otoliths Sr:Ca and Ba:Ca ratios and Sr:Ca partition coefficient of mullets in Cubagua island (south of the State) were significantly different from ratios in La Guardia (north of the State). A discriminant analysis of otolith Sr:Ca and Ba:Ca ratios separated Cubagua Island from La Guardia values. These results suggest the existence of different mullet groups in the Southeastern Caribbean Sea. For this, the simultaneous use of Sr:Ca and Ba:Ca ratios could be a potential tool to identify populations in the study area.

Resumo O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o potencial uso da microquímica do otólito (razões Sr:Ca e Ba:Ca) para identificar distintas populações de tainha, Mugil curema, no sudeste do mar caribenho. Os peixes foram coletados em 7 áreas do estado de Nueva Esparta (Venezuela). As razões Sr:Ca e Ba:Ca do otólito e a razão Sr:Ca da água foram determinadas (pelo ICP-OES e EDTA método volumétrico). As razões de Sr:Ca e Ba:Ca dos otólitos e o coeficiente de partição das tainhas da Ilha Cubagua (sul do estado) foram significativamente diferentes das razões de La Guardia (norte do estado). A análise discriminante das razões de Sr:Ca e Ba:Ca dos otólitos separa os valores da Ilha Cubagua e de La Guardia. Estes resultados sugerem a existência de diferentes grupos de Mugil curema no sudeste do mar Caribenho e que o uso simultâneo das razões Sr:Ca e Ba:Ca poderiam ser uma potencial ferramenta para identificar as populações da área de estudo.

Is otolith microchemistry (Sr: Ca and Ba:Ca ratios) useful to identify Mugil curema populations in the southeastern Caribbean Sea? / A microquímica do otólito é um indicador do habitat de Mugil curema no sudeste do Mar Caribenho?

Abstract The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential use of otolith microchemistry (Sr:Ca and Ba:Ca ratios) to identify silver mullet, Mugil curema, populations in Southeastern Caribbean Sea. Fish samples were collected in 7 areas of Nueva Esparta State (Venezuela). The otolith Sr:Ca and Ba:Ca ratios and water Sr:Ca were determined (by ICP-OES and EDTA volumetric method). Otoliths Sr:Ca and Ba:Ca ratios and Sr:Ca partition coefficient of mullets in Cubagua island (south of the State) were significantly different from ratios in La Guardia (north of the State). A discriminant analysis of otolith Sr:Ca and Ba:Ca ratios separated Cubagua Island from La Guardia values. These results suggest the existence of different mullet groups in the Southeastern Caribbean Sea. For this, the simultaneous use of Sr:Ca and Ba:Ca ratios could be a potential tool to identify populations in the study area.

Resumo O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o potencial uso da microquímica do otólito (razões Sr:Ca e Ba:Ca) para identificar distintas populações de tainha, Mugil curema, no sudeste do mar caribenho. Os peixes foram coletados em 7 áreas do estado de Nueva Esparta (Venezuela). As razões Sr:Ca e Ba:Ca do otólito e a razão Sr:Ca da água foram determinadas (pelo ICP-OES e EDTA método volumétrico). As razões de Sr:Ca e Ba:Ca dos otólitos e o coeficiente de partição das tainhas da Ilha Cubagua (sul do estado) foram significativamente diferentes das razões de La Guardia (norte do estado). A análise discriminante das razões de Sr:Ca e Ba:Ca dos otólitos separa os valores da Ilha Cubagua e de La Guardia. Estes resultados sugerem a existência de diferentes grupos de Mugil curema no sudeste do mar Caribenho e que o uso simultâneo das razões Sr:Ca e Ba:Ca poderiam ser uma potencial ferramenta para identificar as populações da área de estudo.

Diagnosis and treatment of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo involving bilateral posterior semicircular canal / 第二军医大学学报

Objective Toexplore thediagnosis and treatment of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) with bilateral posterior canal involved. Methods The clinical data of BPPV patients, who were diagnosed in the Dizziness Clinic of Changzheng Hospital from January 2012 toDecember 2012, were retrospectively analyzed. The patients had bilateral torsional upbeating geotropic nystagmus asshowed by Dix-Hallpike test. The diagnosis and treatment strategies were summarized. Results Twenty patients presented bilateral torsional upbeating geotropic nystagmus in Dix-Hallpike test; further investigation by lean and bow test showed that six patients manifested with vertical upbeating nystagmus in lean test and no nystagmus was found in the bow test; then they were diagnosed as having bilateral posterior canal BPPV and were treated by bilateral particle repositioning maneuver. Whereas the torsional upbeating nystagmus remained in the other 14 patients in both lean and bow test, but the torsional direction of nystagmus was reversed, so these patients were diagnosed as having unilateral horizontal canal BPPV and their symptoms disappeared after treated by unilateral Barbecue maneuver. Conclusion Diagnosis of bilateral posterior canal BPPVshould not be hastily made in patients showing bilateral torsional upbeating geotropic nystagmus in Dix- Hallpike test unless unilateral horizontal canal BPPV is ruled out.