Variations of pollen and mold concentrations in 1998 during the strong El Niño event of 1997-1998 and their impact on clinical exacerbations of allergic rhinitis, asthma, and sinusitis.

Previous studies of pollen and mold dispersal have not correlated meteorological phenomena with clinical exacerbations of asthma, allergic rhinitis, and sinusitis. We utilized the resources of 11 New England Society of Allergy (NESA) pollen collectors, a certified palynologist, over a dozen weather stations for meteorological data, and 10 emergency rooms to explore the effects of the strong "El Niño" of 1997-1998 on our region during the 1998 pollen season. There was a marked increase in the number of clinical exacerbations of asthma, allergic rhinitis, and sinusitis in April, May, and June of 1998.

Some aspects of self-reported hand preference.

The aim of the present study was to compare self-reported handedness with the directly tested hand preference using a 10-item battery in sample of 1223 students. The question assessing self-reported handedness was whether you are a left- or a right-hander or you use both hands equally. Responses indicate that self-reported handedness is a crude but possible method of measurement.

Functional importance of hand clasping and arm folding.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between handedness and hand clasping or arm folding. Our own investigations have shown no relationship as is consistent with most results in the literature which suggests only minor functional importance of these two signs of latent handedness.

Anaphylaxis to the ingestion and inhalation of Tenebrio molitor (mealworm) and Zophobas morio (superworm).

It has been well documented, worldwide, that inhalation and/or contact with airborne particulate insect products has resulted in sensitivity to insect proteins and is manifested by such common entities as dermatitis, conjunctivitis, rhinitis, and asthma. However, the deliberate ingestion of a variety of insects (undertaken to prove their edibility and nutrient value) resulted in subsequent sensitization of some individuals. Such an outcome has not previously been reported in the literature.