bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth of V2O3 thin films on a-plane (110) and c-plane (001) sapphire via pulsed-laser deposition
Authors: Allimi B.S. , Alpay S.P. , Goberman D. , Huang T. , Budnick J.I. , Pease D.M. , Frenkel A.I.
Published: October 2007

We report the direct deposition of epitaxial 215-nm-thick vanadium sesquioxide (V2O3) films on a- and c-plane sapphire substrates from powder-pressed V2O3 targets via pulsed-laser deposition (PLD) in an evacuated deposition chamber devoid of O2. The films were characterized using x-ray diffraction (XRD), x-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS), x-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy (AFM). XPS measurements confirmed that the stoichiometry of the powder was conserved in the films. XRD patterns together with XAFS measurements proved that V2O3 was epitaxial on the a-sapphire substrate with epitaxial relation (110)film//(110)substrate, and the results are consistent with the epitaxy on the c-plane substrate as well. The room-temperature resistivities of V2O3 films on a- and c-plane substrates were 1.49 × 10−4 and 3.00 × 10−5 Ω m, respectively. The higher resistivities of the films compared to bulk V2O3 might be attributed to thermal stresses resulting from difference in thermal expansion coefficients (TECs) of the films and the substrates.
Ten Important Words Plus: A Strategy for Building Word Knowledge
Authors: Yopp Ruth Helen , Yopp Hallie Kay
Published: October 2007

In this strategy, students individually select and record 10 important words on self‐adhesive notes as they read a text. Then students build a group bar graph displaying their choices, write a sentence that summarizes the content, and then respond to prompts that ask them to think about words in powerful ways. Several prompts are suggested, each emphasizing the meaning, manipulation, or application of selected words in various contexts. This strategy is based on principles of effective vocabulary instruction as it involves

repeated exposure to words

active engagement with words

study of words with instructional potential

This strategy fosters word knowledge as well as comprehension of text with its focus on word meanings and important ideas in text.

This article is also the source for a Class Acts podcast. Download “Teaching key vocabulary” from

www.reading.orgresourcespodcastsindex.html
Content Literacy: Fundamental Toolkit Elements
Authors: Brozo William G. , Flynt E. Sutton
Published: October 2007

The inaugural column in the “Content Literacy” department discusses the importance of teachers' assisting students in grades 4–6 to develop content literacy skills. The discussion centers on levels of literacy and diversity issues facing teachers and then identifies three fundamental elements that should be a part of every teacher's content literacy toolkit.
Comparison of noise impacts from urban transport
Authors: Frost M. , Ison S.
Published: October 2007

When new transport schemes are considered, a key issue is the potential impact of noise. The reaction of people to noise however is both personal and subjective. Whereas all types of new urban transport scheme have noise evaluations, little work has been undertaken to date to compare the noise generated by the different modes of transport namely, a tram, car, bus and guided bus. The lack of such evaluations has implications for scheme perception when new modes are introduced, and such comparisons frequently form part of the public debate when systems are proposed. This paper outlines the assessment of noise and its measurement, reviews the limited published comparisons between modes and presents the results of an extensive series of noise measurements of in-service trams, buses and cars, (taken mainly within the Greater Nottingham area). The measurements have been made across a range of similar operational circumstances to allow comparison between the relative noise of particular modes. The paper concludes that from measurement across operational circumstances there should be little perceived difference in noise from buses and trams, but that proportionately cars can generate significant emissions.
EFFECTS OF REACTIVITY TO OBSERVATIONS ON STAFF PERFORMANCE
Authors: Brackett Leah , Reid Dennis H. , Green Carolyn W.
Published: October 2007

We examined reactivity of staff behavior to observations of their work performance. After training 2 job coaches to reduce completion of break activities for supported workers, we evaluated job‐coach behavior using both conspicuous and inconspicuous observations. Results indicated that both coaches completed none of the activities when observations were conspicuous but most of the activities when observations were inconspicuous. Subsequently, job coaches were taught to self‐record their performances, and their completion of activities remained low with inconspicuous observations. Implications of reactivity are discussed for investigations that target staff behavior.
FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS AND TREATMENT OF NONCOMPLIANCE BY PRESCHOOL CHILDREN
Authors: Wilder David A. , Harris Carelle , Reagan Renee , Rasey Amy
Published: October 2007

A functional analysis showed that noncompliance occurred most often for 2 preschoolers when it resulted in termination of a preferred activity, suggesting that noncompliance was maintained by positive reinforcement. A differential reinforcement procedure, which involved contingent access to coupons that could be exchanged for uninterrupted access to the activity maintaining noncompliance, was successful in increasing compliance for both children.
ARBITRARILY APPLICABLE COMPARATIVE RELATIONS: EXPERIMENTAL EVIDENCE FOR A RELATIONAL OPERANT
Authors: Berens Nicholas M. , Hayes Steven C.
Published: October 2007

Arbitrarily applicable derived relational responding has been argued by relational frame theorists to be a form of operant behavior. The present study examined this idea with 4 female participants, ages 4 to 5 years old, who could not perform a series of problem‐solving tasks involving arbitrary more than and less than relations. In a combined multiple baseline (across responses and participants) and multiple probe design (with trained and untrained stimuli), it was shown that reinforced multiple‐exemplar training facilitated the development of arbitrary comparative relations, and that these skills generalized not just across stimuli but also across trial types. The sequence of training identified potential prerequisites in the development of comparative relations (e.g., nonarbitrary comparative relations). Taken as a whole, the present data, along with previous work by others in this area, suggest that relating arbitrary events comparatively is an operant. The implications of this conclusion for the analysis of complex behavior are discussed.
THE ANALYSIS OF BEHAVIOR WHAT'S IN IT FOR US?
Authors: Sidman Murray
Published: October 2007

When we publish behavioral research, we are not allowed to communicate the thrill, the poetry, or the exhilaration that are outcomes of the discovery process. Yet, these are among our most potent reinforcers. Explicit recognition of the emotional accompaniments to research could help attract students into the experimental analysis of behavior.
Use of Real-Time Rig-Sensor Data To Improve Daily Drilling Reporting, Benchmarking, and Planning—A Case Study
Authors: Thonhauser G. , Wallnoefer G. , Mathis W. , Ettl J.
Published: October 2007

State-of-the-art drilling-operations analysis is mostly dependent on existing daily-activity reporting. However, these activity reports are based on human observations and judgment. This fact implies a number of limitations such as the coarse level of detail and subjective coding systems. To overcome these problems, a rule-based system has been applied to analyze real-time surface-sensor data autonomously. The system evaluates the sensor data stream and acquires crucial process information as a basis for further analysis.

The scope of the system is the recognition of drilling operations, such as tripping, making connections, reaming, and washing, to extend and enhance standard reporting. In this way, a standardized and objective categorization of the drilling process can be achieved at a level of accuracy and detail yet to be reached.

Another benefit is the automated reporting feature. Through the recognition of the rigs, current state, the system is able to propose an impartial process description. This leads to a reduction of the time spent on reporting and leaves more time to focus on unexpected events and lessons learned.

Analysis of field data allowed the introduction of new key performance indicators (e.g., wellbore treatment time per depth interval) for benchmarking, which are determined automatically during the evaluation process. This type of benchmarking does not rely on company-specific activity coding systems. In this way, costly and time-consuming data management effort (e.g., to compare operated and nonoperated wells) is eliminated.

The new system was applied to wells drilled in the Vienna basin during the past year. The Vienna basin covers large parts of eastern Austria (lower Austria, Vienna, and Burgenland) and reaches into the territories of the Czech Republic in the north and the Slovak Republic in the east. It is approximately 200 km long and 55 km wide, striking roughly southwest to northeast from Gloggnitz (lower Austria) in the south to southwest to Napajedla (Czech Republic) in the north to northeast.

As a conclusion, it can be stated that the application of this system significantly improves the accuracy and resolution of the drilling-process description, reducing data-management efforts. The objective categorization of process information is a key enabler for benchmarking, specifically when identifying hidden lost time.
It's Time for a New Low-Dose-Radiation Risk Assessment Paradigm—One that Acknowledges Hormesis
Authors: Scott Bobby R.
Published: October 2007

The current system of radiation protection for humans is based on the linear-no-threshold (LNT) risk-assessment paradigm. Perceived harm to irradiated nuclear workers and the public is mainly reflected through calculated hypothetical increased cancers. The LNT-based system of protection employs easy-to-implement measures of radiation exposure. Such measures include the equivalent dose (a biological-damage-potential-weighted measure) and the effective dose (equivalent dose multiplied by a tissue-specific relative sensitivity factor for stochastic effects). These weighted doses have special units such as the sievert (Sv) and millisievert (mSv, one thousandth of a sievert). Radiation-induced harm is controlled via enforcing exposure limits expressed as effective dose. Expected cancer cases can be easily computed based on the summed effective dose (person-sievert) for an irradiated group or population. Yet the current system of radiation protection needs revision because radiation-induced natural protection (hormesis) has been neglected. A novel, nonlinear, hormetic relative risk model for radiation-induced cancers is discussed in the context of establishing new radiation exposure limits for nuclear workers and the public.
Requirements for Identification of Low Dose and Non-Linear Mutagenic Responses to Ionising Radiation
Authors: Sykes Pamela J. , Day Tanya K.
Published: October 2007

Cancer results from multiple changes in gene expression that can occur both genetically and epigenetically. High doses of radiation can lead to mutations and cancer. At high doses the number of mutations caused by radiation is essentially linear with dose. Low dose radiation induced protective responses observed for cancer in vivo and cellular transformation in vitro would predict that hormetic responses would also be observed in mutation assays. Although there are a large number of different mutation assays available, very few are able to detect changes in mutation frequency in response to very low doses of DNA damaging agents. The easiest way to cope with this lack of data in the low dose range is to invoke a linear-no-threshold model for risk assessment. The reasons for the lack of data are discussed. In order to identify hormetic mutation responses, assays need to have a spontaneous frequency that is high enough to enable a reduction below spontaneous frequency to be detected in a feasible number of scored cells and also need to be able to identify both genetic and epigenetic changes. The pKZ1 chromosomal inversion assay fits the criteria for detecting hormetic responses to low dose radiation.
Caries prevalence in medical and dental students in Foca municipality
Authors: Stojanovic Nikola , Krunic Jelena
Published: October 2007

Introduction: Caries is one of the oldest and most common human diseases and, as such, attracts attention of scientists and researchers worldwide. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine caries prevalence in the students of Dental and Medical Schools in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted at School of Dentistry in Foca and included 340 students, 18-25 years of age. Caries prevalence was analyzed using DMFT index and its components. Results: The average DMFT values in the examined population of students was 12.8?4.7 with only one student with DMFT=0. Obtained results revealed that upper molars were most frequently affected by initial as well as deep caries (30.4%, 15.3% respectively) while anterior teeth were least affected (5.3% and 0.3% respectively). The greatest number of students had 1-3 amalgam restorations. Maxillary teeth from both anterior and posterior segments were most frequently restored with esthetic materials. DMFT index analysis showed that lower molars were among the most often extracted teeth (48.2%). Conclusion: High DMFT index values in the examined population is the results of inadequate organisation of dental healthcare service and inadequate preventive measures in specific socio-economic and medical conditions. .
Nasal Cycle in Patients with Septal Deviation: Evaluation by Acoustic Rhinometry
Authors: Sung Yeol-Woong , Lee Min-Han , Kim In-Jung , Lim Dong-Woo , Rha Ki-Sang , Park Chan
Published: October 2007

The nasal cycle in patients with septal deviation was studied by acoustic rhinometric techniques. This study included 24 patients with anteriorly located septal deviations (mean age = 23.5), and 26 normal controls (mean age = 24.7). Data of MCA (minimum cross-sectional area) and NV (nasal volume), collected in 20-minute intervals, were plotted for each subject during 8 hours. Twenty of 24 patients (83%) with septal deviation and 20 of 26 normal subjects (77%) showed at least one complete cycle. Duration of the nasal cycle, which ranged from 100 minutes to 400 minutes, had no statistical difference between the septal deviation group (mean duration of 216 minutes) and the normal control group (mean duration of 227 minutes). The degrees of variation of MCA and NV, defined as Degree of Variation of MCA (%) = 100 (MCAmax – MCAmin)/MCAmax, Degree of Variation of NV (%) = 100 (NVmax – NVmin)/NVmax, which represent the percent change of MCA and NV throughout the study, showed no difference between the wide side and the narrow side, or between the septal deviation group and the normal control group. These findings suggest that the nasal cycle is relatively independent of peripheral anatomic factors for its generation. However, the amplitude of changes of MCA was greater in the wide side, and the sum of both MCAs tended to fluctuate in accordance with the fluctuation of MCA of the wide side. Thus, the nasal cycle seemed to be affected by septal deviation.
Expression of Mucin Genes in Chronic Ethmoiditis
Authors: Jung Hak Hyun , Lee Je Hyuck , Kim Young Tae , Lee Sang Duck , Park Jae Hoon
Published: October 2007

We have investigated the profiles of MUC genes expressed in chronic ethmoiditis mucosa and normal ethmoid mucosa using RT-PCR, and the morphology of chronic ethmoiditis by a combination of light and electron microscope was observed. In the light- and electron-microscopic studies, chronic ethmoiditis mucosa revealed increased numbers of goblet cells with higher production of mucus in comparison to normal ethmoid mucosa. RT-PCR of cDNAs from three normal ethmoid mucosa revealed the same pattern of mucin gene expression, such as MUC5AC and MUC8. However, RT-PCR of cDNAs from eight chronic ethmoiditis mucosa showed the expression of two MUC1, six MUC4, eight MUC5AC, five MUC5B, seven MUC7, and eight MUC8. MUC2 and MUC6 were not detected. These results suggest that MUC4, MUC5AC, MUC5B, MUC7, and MUC8 are major mucins in the ethmoid mucosa and are up-regulated by chronic inflammation.
Bivalved Palatal Transposition Flaps for the Correction of Acquired Nasopharyngeal Stenosis
Authors: Toh Elizabeth , Pearl Adam W. , Genden Eric M. , Lawson William , Urken Mark L
Published: October 2007

Nasopharyngeal stenosis is almost universally an iatrogenic problem resulting from surgical trauma after adenotonsillectomy or uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP). In addition, laser-assisted uvulopalatopharyngoplasty for the treatment of snoring may lead to the development of cicatricial scarring and stenosis at the level of the velopharynx. The most common mechanisms implicated in the development of acquired nasopharyngeal stenosis are the overzealous removal of inferolateral adenoid tissue and excessive excision of the palatopharyngeal arches. Symptoms generally relate to a disturbance in respiration, olfaction, voice quality, and deglutition, and are often poorly tolerated. Surgical options for the correction of this challenging problem include steroid injections, scar lysis, skin grafts, Z-plasty repair, and the use of various local mucosal flaps. We report the successful use of bivalved palatal transposition flaps performed through the transoral route for the correction of severe acquired nasopharyngeal stenosis following UPPP in two patients. Both patients developed delayed nasopharyngeal stenosis following their initial surgery and subsequently failed several attempts at surgical correction of the stenosis, including laser lysis of the scarred soft palate. Using this technique of repair, both patients achieved satisfactory resolution of their symptoms, including comfortable nasal breathing and normal speech. We have found that this is a simple and effective technique for the correction of severe nasopharyngeal stenosis.
Macrolide Treatment Decreased the Size of Nasal Polyps and IL-8 Levels in Nasal Lavage
Authors: Yamada Takechiyo , Fujieda Shigeharu , Mori Shigehito , Yamamoto Hideyuki , Saito Hitoshi
Published: October 2007

Recently, epidemiologic and experimental studies have been reported that long-term macrolides are effective for the treatment of chronic airway inflammatory diseases including diffuse panbronchiolitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, and cystic fibrosis (Jaffe A, Francis J, Rosenthal M, et al. Long-term azithromycin may improve lung function in children with cystic fibrosis. Lancet 351:420, 1998), and that macrolides can directly reduce the production of IL-8 by nasal epithelial cells (Suzuki H, Shimomura A, Ikeda K, et al. Inhibitory effect of macrolides on interleukin-8 secretion from cultured human nasal epithelial cells. Laryngoscope 107:1661–1666, 1997). In this study we administered macrolides with 14-membered rings to patients with nasal polyps due to chronic rhinosinusitis for at least 3 months and measured the IL-8 level in nasal lavage from those patients. The IL-8 levels in nasal lavage from patients with nasal polyps were reduced during macrolide treatment. There was significant correlation between decreased IL-8 levels in nasal lavage and the clinical effect of macrolides on the size of the nasal polyps. In the group whose polyps were reduced in size, the IL-8 levels dramatically decreased from 231.2 pg/mL to 44.0 pg/mL (p < 0.05), and were significantly higher before macrolide treatment than those in the group whose polyps showed no change (p < 0.005). This reduction in IL-8 may be an important aspect of the effect of macrolide treatment on nasal polyps in chronic rhinosinusitis.
Endoscopic and Electroporation Therapy of Paranasal Sinus Tumors
Authors: Panje William R. , Sadeghi Nader
Published: October 2007

The purpose of this article is to introduce the concept of endoscopic and electroporation therapy for the treatment of sinonasal carcinomas. Electroporation therapy is a technique that combines intralesional injection of bleomycin combined with application of high-voltage square wave electrical impulse into the tumor. A transient increase in cell membrane permeability allows intracellular entry of bleomycin, with subsequent cytotoxicity. Two cases of sinonasal cancer were treated with this technique. One patient had complete response and is free of disease at 20 months. The other had partial response with control of the disease up to a year. Endoscopic electroporation therapy is potentially a minimally invasive method for the treatment of sinonasal malignancies in an experimental setting where other treatment options do not exist. Phase II/III national clinical trials have been initiated to study the efficacy of electroporation therapy.
Nasal and Sinus Manifestations of Sarcoidosis
Authors: Zeitlin Jill F. , Tami Thomas A. , Baughman Robert , Winget Donna
Published: October 2007

Nasal and sinus diseases are considered uncommon manifestations of sarcoidosis. We evaluated 159 consecutive patients with sarcoidosis for nasal symptoms. Sixty-three patients (39%) denied any nasal symptoms. Thirty-six patients (23%) had intermittent symptoms that lasted less than three weeks and required continuous intervention with nasal steroids or normal saline. Sixty patients (38%) were treated with nasal steroids and antibiotics for symptoms that lasted more than three weeks. Thirty-three patients (21%) had resolution of their symptoms after treatment with nasal steroids and antibiotics. Twenty-seven patients (17%) had symptoms that were unresponsive to three weeks of oral antibiotics and nasal steroids, and underwent CT scan. Based on the CT results, five patients underwent biopsy, which confirmed sarcoidosis. An additional patient who had a normal CT scan underwent a biopsy that was consistent with sarcoidosis. A retrospective review of 733 sarcoidosis patients was then performed, and an additional 12 patients were identified with biopsy-proven sarcoidosis. All of these patients required long-term therapy with prednisone (14 patients), methotrexate (13 patients), and/or azathioprine (8 patients). Our clinical study reveals a higher incidence of nasal and sinus disease in patients with sarcoidosis than has previously been described, and the recalcitrance of sarcoidosis when there is sinus involvement.
Pneumatization of the Sphenoid Sinus in Children Evaluated by Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Jang Yong Ju , Kim Seung Cheol
Published: October 2007

Previous studies concerned with the normal development of the sphenoid sinus have reported that the onset of initial pneumatization varies from 6 months to 4 years of life, and that the pneumatization is completed by 12 to 14 years of age. This study was designed to evaluate the age-related development of the sphenoid sinus pneumatization in children using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging technique. MR images of the sphenoid sinus in 152 children, ages 2 months to 163 months, were retrospectively reviewed. The degree of pneumatization was classified into four grades as 0, 1, 2, and 3 in axial images, and into five grades as 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 in sagittal images. The numbers of grades were age-matched in the studied children. The pneumatized sphenoid sinus was identifiable as early as 2 months of age on axial image, and 4 months on sagittal image. Pneumatized sphenoid sinuses were identified in 100% of the subjects studied at the age of 3 years on axial image, and 6 years on sagittal image. All the children over 9 years old showed pneumatization of grade 2 or more both on axial and sagittal images. The results of this study may indicate that the sphenoid sinus begins and completes pneumatization earlier than previously described.
Local Corticosteroid Treatment: The Effect on Cells and Cytokines in Nasal Allergic Inflammation
Authors: Fokkens Wytske J , Godthelp Tom , Holm Adriaan F. , Klein-Jan Alex
Published: October 2007

Regular and prophylactic use of topical corticosteroids is a well tolerated and effective treatment for allergic rhinitis. The symptomatology of allergic rhinitis is considered to be the result of the accumulation and activation of infiltrating inflammatory cells, releasing mediators, and cytokines. Corticosteroids can suppress many stages of the allergic inflammatory process. This may explain their potent effect on allergic symptomatology. The reduction in cell numbers and probably also cytokines by local corticosteroid therapy differs from cell to cell. Some cells, such as antigen presenting (Langerhans) cells and eosinophils, are highly sensitive to corticosteroid treatment. Others, like T cells, are only significantly reduced in exaggerated situations, for instance after provocation with a high allergen dose or after treatment with a high dose of corticosteroids. Some cells, like macrophages, are not influenced at all.
A Macrolide Antibiotic, Roxithromycin, Inhibits the Growth of Nasal Polyp Fibroblasts
Authors: Nonaka Manabu , Pawankar Ruby , Tomiyama Shunichi , Yagi Toshiaki
Published: October 2007

Recently, the efficacy of macrolide antibiotics in cystic fibrosis and bleomycin-induced lung injury was reported. Nasal polyposis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the upper airway characterized by structural abnormalities including stromal fibrosis. Fibroblasts are resident cells thought to play an important role in the development of fibrosis. Although the effect of Roxithromycin (RXM) on inflammatory cells is welt known, there is no evidence on the effect of RXM on fibroblasts. The purpose of the present study was two-fold: to examine the effect of RXM on the growth of fibroblasts in vitro and to examine the effect of RXM on the proliferation of fibroblasts in vivo. Nasal polyp fibroblast lines were generated from untreated patients, and those who were treated with RXM (300 mg/day) for one month before biopsy. Nasal polyp fibroblast lines from untreated patients were cultured for 72 hours with or without RXM, and the direct effect of RXM on fibroblast growth in vitro was examined by cell counting and 3H thymidine uptake. Next, we examined the in vivo effect of RXM on nasal polyp fibroblasts (NPFs) by comparing the growth characteristics of NPF lines from RXM treated and untreated patients. Finally, we examined the proliferating rate of NPF lines from the same patient before and after treatment with RXM. NPF lines that were treated with RXM exhibited a lower proliferating rate in vitro as compared to those that were not treated with RXM. Treatment of NPF lines with RXM suppressed the proliferation of fibroblasts in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, NPF lines from patients treated with RXM exhibited a lower proliferating rate in vitro as compared to NPF lines from the same patient taken before RXM treatment. We demonstrated that RXM directly suppressed nasal polyp fibroblast proliferation, and that this effect of RXM on fibroblast growth was persistent, indicating that RXM may prevent the progression of nasal polyposis by inhibiting the development of fibrosis.
Endoscopically Assisted Anterior Cranial Skull Base Resection of Sinonasal Tumors
Authors: Thaler Erica R. , Kotapka Mark , Lanza Donald C. , Kennedy David W.
Published: October 2007

The traditional approach to sinonasal tumors involving the base of skull has been the anterior craniofacial resection. Endoscopic techniques have created the potential to approach the intranasal aspect of skull base lesions without external incisions and still develop an en bloc resection when removed. We report our initial experience with skull base neoplasms in which the otolaryngic portion of the standard resection was accomplished instead through an endoscopic approach. The nature of lesions favorable for this approach and associated technical issues are discussed. Although we do not consider this approach a replacement for the traditional anterior craniofacial resection, it is an important adjunct in the skull base surgeon's armamentarium.
Endoscopic Trans-septal Frontal Sinusotomy: The Rationale and Results of an Alternative Technique
Authors: McLaughlin Robert B. , Hwang Peter H. , Lanza Donald C.
Published: October 2007

Endoscopic transseptal frontal sinusotomy (TSFS) represents an alternate approach to surgical treatment of chronic frontal sinus disease that is refractory to traditional modes of medical and surgical therapy. We retrospectively reviewed our experience with endoscopic TSFS from 1995–1997. Twenty-one procedures were performed through a transseptal approach. One patient was excluded for failure to follow-up, for a total of 20 procedures. Patients were followed with serial endoscopic examinations and a telephone questionnaire with a mean follow-up of 12 months (Range 1–24 months) and 16 months (range 5–31), respectively. The primary indication for surgery was frontal recess stenosis after previous endoscopic frontal sinusotomy in 17/20 (85%). Three patients were considered poor candidates for a primary endoscopic frontal sinusotomy. Patency was maintained in all patients during the follow-up period. A diameter of greater than 3 mm was confirmed by passage of a curved suction in 19/20 (95%). Of the 19 patients that were evaluated via a telephone questionnaire, 17 patients (89.5%) reported some degree of improvement in their nasal/sinus symptoms, and 12/18 patients (67%) felt the frequency of medication requirements was less than that before undergoing endoscopic TSFS. We conclude that endoscopic TSFS represents an alternate approach to the frontal sinus that may be used by the experienced endoscopist, to augment treatment of refractory frontal sinus disease. This procedure seems especially suited for revision surgery in those patients with acquired frontal sinus stenosis. In revision operations with distorted anatomical landmarks, localization of the frontal sinus may be improved with the aid of 3-dimensional computer assisted localization systems. Unlike traditional frontal sinus obliteration, endoscopic TSFS does not preclude radiographic assessment postoperatively, and allows for endoscopic evaluation of the frontal sinus in the office setting.
Sinogenic Brain Abscess
Authors: Fenton John E. , Smyth David A. , Viani Laura G. , Walsh Michael A.
Published: October 2007

The otolaryngological contribution to the combined treatment of intracranial suppuration secondary to sinusitis can vary from observation to external approach sinus exploration. Limited surgical intervention using the endoscopic approach, in conjunction with neurosurgical drainage, has recently been adopted at our department as the initial therapeutic strategy in the management of such cases. A retrospective analysis of the otolaryngological input into the treatment of 16 patients with sinogenic brain abscess at the Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland is presented. This study reveals that it is generally a disease of young adult males without an antecedent history of sinus disease and that Strep. Milleri is the most common causative organism. It is demonstrated that there is a lack of a consistent approach to the management in the acute phase and that there is an inadequate initial radiologic evaluation of the paranasal sinuses. There are two forms of presentation: 1) an ENT complaint with development of an abscess, and 2) an idiopathic abscess with subsequent identification of a paranasal sinus infective source. Extensive initial intervention seems to be associated with an increased incidence of revision surgery, thus suggesting that a limited endoscopic approach combined with neurosurgical drainage is the optimal course in the first-line management of sinogenic abscess.
Reversible Neuropraxic Visual Loss Induced by Allergic Aspergillus Flavus Sinomycosis
Authors: Attallah Mohammad , Hashash Mustafa , AI-Muhaimeed Hamad , Dousary Surayie , Rabah Abdulrahman AI , Kharashi Suliman
Published: October 2007

This work reports a patient with visual loss treated successfully with surgical removal of the Aspergillus flavus sinomycosis. Vision was partially reversed within hours after surgery before starting planned corticosteroid therapy. The patient's visual acuity continued to improve steadily until it became equal to that of the other eye. The immediate gain in vision and continued improvement without corticosteroid therapy suggest a new hypothesis for visual loss induced by allergic sinonasal Aspergillosis. Simple mechanical pressure alone of the aspergillus mass over the nerve can produce visual loss, and this loss is reversed by removing the mass without corticosteroid therapy.
The Role of Mini-Trephination in the Management of Frontal Sinusitis
Authors: Gallagher Richard M. , Gross Charles W.
Published: October 2007

The surgical management of chronic frontal sinusitis remains an area of controversy. Since the introduction of endoscopic sinus surgery, many novel approaches to this difficult problem have been developed. Recently at the University of Virginia, mini-trephination of the frontal sinus has been used in combination with endoscopic frontal sinusotomy. This technique has enabled confident and precise identification of the frontal sinus ostium, culture of sinus contents, and irrigation of the frontal sinus. A retrospective review of 22 minitrephinations since November 1997 was performed. The short term results are encouraging with a frontal sinus patency rate of 90%; however, long-term follow-up is required. We conclude that the technique is reliable and reproducible.
Nasal Airway Volumetric Measurement Using Segmented HRCT Images and Acoustic Rhinometry
Authors: Prasun Dastidar , Jura Numminen , Tomi Heinonen , Pertti Ryymin , Markus Rautiainen , Erkki Laasonen
Published: October 2007

Semiautomatic segmentation methods using High Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) or Magnetic Resonance Imaging give accurate and reproducible volumetric measurements in various intracranial diseases. In this prospective study, for the first time in literature, with the help of a new semiautomatic segmentation technique and coronal HRCT, we correlated the volumes and cross-sectional areas of the nasal cavity with those obtained by clinical acoustic rhinometry in 14 patients with chronic sinusitis. The measurements obtained by both techniques showed statistically significant correlations between volumes in the anterior and middle parts, but statistically poor correlations between the volumes in the posterior part of the nasal cavity. Coronal HRCT and our new microcomputer applicable semiautomatic segmentation software proved compatible with daily clinical practice. Based on the promising results of our study, we recommend the use of this technique in the validation studies of acoustic rhinometry and in complicated cases as a complementary examination in the evaluation of nasal cavity.
Third Annual Brown Lecture in Education Research—The Flat Earth and Education: How America’s Commitment to Equity Will Determine Our Future
Authors: Darling-Hammond Linda
Published: October 2007

In the knowledge-based economy that characterizes the 21st century, most previously industrialized countries are making massive investments in education. The United States ranks poorly on many leading indicators, however, primarily because of the great inequality in educational inputs and outcomes between White students and non-Asian “minority” students, who comprise a growing share of the U.S. public school population. Standards-based reforms have been launched throughout the United States with promises of greater equity, but while students are held to common standards—and increasingly experience serious sanctions if they fail to meet them—most states have not equalized funding and access to the key educational resources needed for learning. The result of this collision of new standards with old inequities is less access to education for many students of color, rather than more. This article outlines current disparities in educational access; illustrates the relationships between race, educational resources, and student achievement; and proposes reforms needed to equalize opportunities to learn.
The effects of tesaglitazar as add-on treatment to metformin in patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes
Authors: Göke Burkhard , Gause-Nilsson Ingrid , Persson Anders
Published: October 2007

This study assessed the effects of tesaglitazar (0.5 or 1 mg/day), a dual peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α/γ agonist, when added to maximally tolerated metformin (2–2.5 g/day) in patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes. The primary end point of this 24-week, randomised, placebo-controlled study was the absolute change from baseline in glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1C).

Tesaglitazar significantly reduced HbA1C, fasting plasma glucose and insulin levels compared with placebo (p<0.0001 for all) when added to metformin. Triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and non-HDL-C levels also improved with tesaglitazar treatment (p<0.0001 for all). Adverse events were generally similar across treatments, except for higher frequencies of peripheral oedema and weight gain in the tesaglitazar 1 mg group. Although reversibility was not fully evaluated, dose-dependent changes in mean serum crea-tinine levels and haematology measures tended to return towards baseline at follow-up.

Despite the clinical discontinuation of tesaglitazar, this study has demonstrated the potential benefits of dual PPAR agonism as add-on therapy to metformin, in patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes.
Metastatic Model of Colon Carcinoma in Mice: Utility in the Study of Tumor Growth and Progression
Authors: Jones‐Bolin Susan , Ruggeri Bruce
Published: October 2007

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States with an estimated 150,000 diagnosed cases and over 56,000 fatalities annually (Jemal et al., 2006). Approximately one‐third to one‐half of cases are localized to the colon and rectum and have a favorable prognosis, while one‐third to one‐half present with regional lymph node metastases at diagnosis and generally are refractory to various chemotherapeutic regimens. Treatment options (surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy) are limited and the disease carries a grave prognosis for many patients. An orthotopic model of colon carcinoma in mice provides a way to evaluate the pathogenesis of tumor growth and metastasis as an aid in developing effective therapies and to better understand the underlying biology of colon tumor growth and metastasis. The protocol described in this unit details the development and characterization of an orthotopic model of murine colon carcinoma in BALB/c mice with diffuse lymphatic and hepatic metastatic spread, closely mimicking the course of the human disease. Curr. Protoc. Pharmacol. 38:14.5.1‐14.5.13. © 2007 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Models of Melanoma Metastasis: Using a Transient siRNA‐Based Protein Inhibition Strategy in Mice to Validate the Functional Relevance of Pharmacological Agents
Authors: Sharma Arati , Robertson Gavin P.
Published: October 2007

While a pharmacological agent may inhibit the activity of a protein in cultured cells by triggering a particular biological process, it may function differently in intact animals. Thus, an assay is needed to rapidly assess whether a drug candidate displays the same mechanism of action in vivo as in vitro. The experimental approach described in this unit utilizes synthetic siRNA in a transient animal assay to define the action of a drug candidate when inhibiting the activity of a particular gene. Commercially available synthetic siRNA is introduced into cancer cells by nucleofection to reduce protein expression. Cells are then introduced into animals and the mechanism responsible for tumor inhibition assessed. The action of a compound identified in vitro is then compared to that noted in vivo following siRNA‐mediated inhibition to determine whether it reduces tumor development in the same manner in both systems. Curr. Protoc. Pharmacol. 38:14.6.1‐14.6.15. © 2007 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Synthesis of Altritol Nucleoside Phosphoramidites for Oligonucleotide Synthesis
Authors: Abramov Mikhail , Herdewijn Piet
Published: October 2007

This unit describes in detail the optimized preparations of altritol nucleoside phosphoramidite building blocks for oligonucleotide synthesis (aA, aG, aC, aU). D‐Altritol nucleosides with adenine and uracil bases are obtained by nucleophilic opening of the epoxide ring of 1,5:2,3‐dianhydro‐4,6‐O‐benzylidene‐D‐allitol using the 1,8‐diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene salts of the above‐mentioned salts, while phase transfer catalysis (18‐crown‐6, K2CO3) is optimal for alkylation of 2‐amino‐6‐chloropurine. The cytosine nucleoside is synthesized starting from the uracil congener. The 3′‐hydroxyl function of hexitol sugar is protected with the benzoyl group. Curr. Protoc. Nucleic Acid Chem. 30:1.18.1‐1.18.21. © 2007 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Basic Techniques in Mammalian Cell Tissue Culture
Authors: Phelan Mary C.
Published: October 2007

Cultured mammalian cells are used extensively in cell biology studies. It requires a number of special skills in order to be able to preserve the structure, function, behavior, and biology of the cells in culture. This unit describes the basic skills required to maintain and preserve cell cultures: maintaining aseptic technique, preparing media with the appropriate characteristics, passaging, freezing and storage, recovering frozen stocks, and counting viable cells.Curr. Protoc. Cell Biol. 36:1.1.1‐1.1.18. © 2007 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Hematoendothelial Differentiation of Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Vodyanik Maxim A. , Slukvin Igor I.
Published: October 2007

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) represent a unique population of cells capable of self‐renewal and differentiation into all types of somatic cells, including hematopoietic and endothelial cells. Since the pattern of hematopoietic and endothelial development observed in the embryo can be reproduced using ESCs differentiated in culture, hESCs can be used as a model for studies of specification and diversification of hematoendothelial progenitors. In addition, hESCs can be seen as a scalable source of hematopoietic and endothelial cells for in vitro studies. This unit describes a method for efficient differentiation of hESCs into hematopoietic progenitors and endothelial cells through coculture with mouse OP9 bone marrow stromal cells, as well as an approach for their analysis and isolation. Support protocols are provided for culture of mouse embryonic fibroblasts, evaluation of hematopoietic and endothelial differentiation by flow cytometry and colony‐forming assay, removal of OP9 cells, and propagation of hESC‐derived endothelial cells. Curr. Protoc. Cell Biol. 36:23.6.1‐23.6.28. © 2007 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
In Vivo Imaging Using Quantum Dot–Conjugated Probes
Authors: S. Lidke Diane , Nagy Peter , J. Arndt‐Jovin Donna
Published: October 2007

This unit describes the use of quantum dots (QDs) for live‐cell imaging and the use of QDs in flow cytometry for quantitative analysis of ligand binding constants and receptor density. Conventional fluorophores and visible fluorescent protein (VFP) constructs have allowed visualization of many cellular processes. However, organic and biomolecular fluorophores have limitations in their applications, due to their small Stokes' shift and tendency to photobleach during prolonged imaging. QDs have many advantages over conventional fluorophores, including high brightness and photostability, which make them an exceptional tool for live‐cell imaging. There are a large variety of commercially available QDs with different surface reactivities and characteristics. The authors have limited the laboratory protocols presented here to the use of streptavidin‐coupled QDs because this gives almost universal applicability to any cell surface receptor by coupling the ligand or antibody that recognizes the receptor to biotin and visualizing the complex by use of QDs. Curr. Protoc. Cell Biol. 36:25.1.1‐25.1.18. © 2007 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Using ProSight PTM and Related Tools for Targeted Protein Identification and Characterization with High Mass Accuracy Tandem MS Data
Authors: D. LeDuc Richard , L. Kelleher Neil
Published: October 2007

ProSight PTM v2.0, neuroProSight, and the Sequence Gazer allow the identification and characterization of proteins from high mass accuracy tandem mass spectrometric data of intact proteins and large peptides. Input data consists of one or more neutral precursor ion masses and a set of neutral b/y or c/z. fragment ions masses. This data is compared against “shotgun annotated” proteome databases or known protein sequences. With these tools it is possible to not only identify unknown proteins, but to determine the location of post‐translational modifications (PTM) with 100% sequence coverage. Collectively, the tools create a search environment that allows five different search modes, including absolute mass and sequence tag searching, which are conveniently employed via a graphical user interface. Data management and chemical noise reduction tools are also available. These tools provide a complete environment for the identification and characterization of proteins from high resolution tandem mass spectrometry of intact proteins and large peptides. Curr. Protoc. Bioinform. 19:13.6.1‐13.6.28. © 2007 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Cover Picture: Novel Structure of AAO Film Fabricated by Constant Current Anodization (Adv. Mater. 19/2007)
Authors: Zhao S. , Chan K. , Yelon A. , Veres T.
Published: October 2007

Anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) films with a six‐membered ring structure are reported by Shiyong Zhao, Teodor Veres, and co‐workers on p. 3004. The films, with a controlled pore diameter, are prepared by constant current anodization at a high current density. While structurally ordered arrays of nanodots have been fabricated by using this AAO template, the high pore density of this AAO structure may promote its use in many applications, for example in the preparation of mosaic nanowire arrays or photonic devices.
Spontaneous thermocapillary drops interaction: The effect of a surface reaction
Authors: Bialik‐Rosenfeld L. , Lavrenteva O. M. , Nir A.
Published: October 2007

The spontaneous motion of small drops suspended in an immiscible viscous fluid, when an exothermal reaction occurs on their interfaces, has been studied. The heat of reaction results in an elevation of temperature on the drops' interfaces and in the external fluid. The concentration and temperature in the gap region become different from those in the outer regions. The inhomogeneous distribution of concentration and temperature induces surface tension variations, Marangoni type flow and migration of the fluid particles relative to each other. Cases studied concern two drops interaction due to thermocapillary forces induced by temperature field, the addition of a gravity field and the mutual effect of thermocapillary forces induced simultaneously by temperature and concentration. Results are presented for a variety of the governing parameters of the system. Stationary flow patterns with immobile drops configurations are predicted, which appear to be unstable for small perturbations. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2007