bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isotopic constraints on glacial/interglacial changes in the oceanic nitrogen budget
Authors: Deutsch Curtis , Sigman Daniel M. , Thunell Robert C. , Meckler Anna Nele , Haug Gerald H.
Published: October 2004

We investigate the response of the 15N/14N of oceanic nitrate to glacial/interglacial changes in the N budget, using a geochemical box model of the oceanic N cycle that includes N2 fixation and denitrification in the sediments and suboxic water column. This model allows us to quantify the isotopic response of different oceanic nitrate pools to deglacial increases in water column and sedimentary denitrification, given a range of possible feedbacks between nitrate concentration and N2 fixation/denitrification. This response is compared to the available paleoceanographic data, which suggest an early deglacial maximum in nitrate 15N/14N in suboxic zones and no significant glacial‐to‐late Holocene change in global ocean nitrate 15N/14N. Consistent with the work of Brandes and Devol [2002], we find that the steady state 15N/14N of oceanic nitrate is controlled primarily by the fraction of total denitrification that occurs in the water column. Therefore a deglacial peak in the ratio of water column‐to‐sediment denitrification, caused by either a strong feedback between water column denitrification and the N reservoir or by an increase in sediment denitrification due to sea level rise, can explain the observed deglacial 15N/14N maximum in sediments underlying water column denitrification zones. The total denitrification rate and the mean ocean nitrate concentration are also important determinants of steady state nitrate 15N/14N. For this reason, modeling a realistic deglacial 15N/14N maximum further requires that the combined negative feedbacks from N2 fixation and denitrification are relatively strong, and N losses are relatively small. Our results suggest that the glacial oceanic N inventory was at most 30% greater than today's and probably less than 10% greater.
Detection of potential fishing ground for albacore tuna using synoptic measurements of ocean color and thermal remote sensing in the northwestern North Pacific
Authors: Zainuddin Mukti , Saitoh Sei‐ichi , Saitoh Katsuya
Published: October 2004

To describe potential fishing ground of albacore in relation to dynamics of bio‐physical of their environments, and to clarify impact of El Niño 1998 and La Niña 1999 on tuna fishery, satellite images of SST (TRMM/TMI and NOAA/AVHRR) and SSC (SeaWiFS) together with catch data were used. The 20°C SST and the 0.3 mg m−3 SSC were considered as good indicators of the productive fishing ground. Results showed that a small distance between latitudinal mean position of the SST and the SSC during winter term tended to significantly increase CPUEs. We suggest that albacore fishing grounds highly associated with the confluence of these proxy indicators where the fronts may well develop. These represent the meeting of optimum combination of chlorophyll and temperature fronts which capable of creating potential fishing ground. The proxy indicators appeared to well meet in La Niña 1999 in comparison to El Niño period in 1998.
On the viscosity and creep mechanism of Earth's inner core
Authors: Van Orman James A.
Published: October 2004

The viscosity and creep mechanism of Earth's inner core are evaluated based on microphysical models of the flow properties of iron under high pressure and temperature, low stress and large grain size. Harper‐Dorn creep, a Newtonian‐viscous dislocation mechanism, is shown to be the likely deformation process, and the viscosity is predicted to be ∼1011 Pa s, at the low end of previous estimates. Such a low viscosity implies that the inner core can adjust its shape to maintain alignment with the gravitational field imposed by the mantle on a timescale of approximately one minute. It also implies that strain sufficient to produce significant lattice preferred orientation could develop in a few years to a few hundred years, which suggests that seismic anisotropy of the inner core is the product of active deformation and has no memory of primary crystallization.
Single‐crystal elasticity of grossular‐ and almandine‐rich garnets to 11 GPa by Brillouin scattering
Authors: Jiang Fuming , Speziale Sergio , Duffy Thomas S.
Published: October 2004

The high‐pressure elasticity of grossular‐rich Grs87And9Pyp2Alm2 and almandine‐rich Alm72Pyp20Sps3Grs3And2 natural garnet single crystals were determined by Brillouin scattering to 11 GPa in a diamond anvil cell. The experiments were carried out using a 16:3:1 methanol‐ethanol water mixture as pressure medium. The aggregate moduli as well as their pressure derivatives were obtained by fitting the data to Eulerian finite strain equations. The inversion yields KS0 = 165.0 ± 0.9 GPa, G0 = 104.2 ± 0.3 GPa, (∂KS/∂P)T0 = 3.8 ± 0.2, and (∂G/∂P)0 = 1.1 ± 0.1 for the grossular‐rich composition and KS0 = 174.9 ± 1.6 GPa, G0 = 95.6 ± 0.5 GPa, (∂KS/∂P)T0 = 4.7 ± 0.3, and (∂G/∂P)0 = 1.4 ± 0.1 for the almandine‐rich garnet. Both individual and aggregate elastic moduli of the two garnets define nearly linear modulus pressure trends. The elastic anisotropy of the garnets increases weakly in magnitude with compression. Isothermal compression curves derived from our results are generally consistent with static compression data under hydrostatic conditions, and the effects of nonhydrostaticity on previous diffraction data can be identified. The pressure derivatives obtained here are generally lower than those reported in high‐pressure polycrystalline ultrasonic elasticity studies. In combination with earlier Brillouin scattering data for pyrope, our results allow us to constrain the effect on elastic moduli of Fe2+‐Mg2+ substitution in pyrope‐almandine, Ca2+‐Mg2+ in pyrope‐grossular, and Fe3+‐Al3+ substitution in andradite‐grossular at high pressures. This new data set thus allows us to place improved constraints on the compositional dependence of seismic velocities in the rocks of the upper mantle.
The summertime annular mode in the Northern Hemisphere and its linkage to the winter mode
Authors: Ogi Masayo , Yamazaki Koji , Tachibana Yoshihiro
Published: October 2004

The seasonal variations of the Northern Hemisphere annular mode (NAM) are investigated through empirical orthogonal function analysis of the zonally averaged geopotential height fields for each individual calendar month. Patterns of the winter and summer NAMs differ not only in the geopotential height fields but also in the mean meridional circulation and eddy structure. The summer NAM has a smaller meridional scale and is displaced poleward as compared to the winter NAM. The antinode on the lower‐latitude side in the summer NAM is at the nodal latitude of the winter NAM. The summer NAM is more strongly related to surface air temperatures over Eurasia than the original Arctic Oscillation. The summer NAM is a wave‐driven internal atmospheric mode that is maintained by both stationary and transient waves. The summer NAM is associated with the Arctic front, polar jet, and storm track around the Arctic Ocean. The winter‐to‐summer linkage described by M. Ogi et al. can be interpreted as a preferred transition from one polarity of the winter annular mode to the same polarity of the summer annular mode. The spring cryosphere, i.e., snow in Eurasia and sea ice in the Barents Sea, plays a supporting role in this transition.
Error estimation and optimization of the method of auxiliary sources (MAS) for scattering from a dielectric circular cylinder
Authors: Anastassiu Hristos T. , Kaklamani Dimitria I.
Published: October 2004

This article presents a rigorous error estimation of the method of auxiliary sources (MAS) when applied to the solution of the electromagnetic scattering problem involving dielectric objects. The geometry investigated herein is a circular, dielectric cylinder of infinite length. The MAS matrix is inverted analytically, via advanced eigenvalue analysis, and an exact expression for the boundary condition error owing to discretization is derived. Furthermore, an analytical formula for the condition number of the linear system is also extracted, explaining the irregular behavior of the computational error resulting from numerical matrix inversion. Also, the effects of the dielectric parameters on the error are fully investigated. Finally, the optimal location of the auxiliary sources is determined on the grounds of error minimization.
Semianalytical solutions of laminar fully developed pulsating flows through ducts of arbitrary cross sections
Authors: Ray Subhashis , Durst Franz
Published: October 2004

A semianalytical analysis of fully developed pulsating flows in pipes of noncircular cross section is presented. The flow is assumed to be pressure gradient driven. Details of the analytical treatment of the flow are presented and it is shown that the analysis can be employed for any arbitrary cross-sectional shape. Special considerations are given to laminar pipe flows with circular cross sections and results of the present analysis are compared with those of conventional analytical treatments of the flow. Comparison of the velocity distribution, mass flow-rate pulsation, ratio of amplitudes of the mass flow rate and the pressure gradient, and the corresponding phase lag obtained by the present treatment show excellent agreement with data in the literature. Similar comparisons are also performed for oscillating flow through ducts of square and rectangular cross sections. Numerical data are introduced to confirm the resultant analysis. Finally, a few test cases are presented for sinusoidally pulsating flows through ducts of rectangular and elliptical cross sections with varying aspect ratios.
Influence of chlorsulfuron on rhizobial growth, nodule formation, and nitrogen fixation with chickpea
Authors: Anderson A. , Baldock J. A. , Rogers S. L. , Bellotti W. , Gill G.
Published: October 2004

Sulfonylurea residues have been found to inhibit the growth of some legume crops and pastures in seasons following application. Negative effects of these herbicides on symbiotic nitrogen fixation by legume crops and pastures have been demonstrated. Reductions in nitrogen fixation may result from a direct effect of the herbicide on rhizobial growth and/or an indirect effect on plant growth. In this study the influence of chlorsulfuron on the growth of chickpea rhizobia [Mesorhizobium ciceri (CC1192)], the growth of chickpea plants, and the extent of nodulation and nitrogen fixation by the chickpea/rhizobia symbiosis were examined. In vitro studies (in yeast mannitol broth and a defined medium) showed that chlorsulfuron applied at double the recommended field application rate did not influence the growth of chickpea rhizobia. An experiment using 14C-labelled chlorsulfuron was conducted to determine if rhizobial cells exposed to chlorsulfuron could deliver the herbicide to the point of root infection and nodule formation. Approximately 1% of the herbicide present in the rhizobial growth medium remained with the cell/inoculum material after rinsing with 1/4 strength Ringer’s solution. This was considered unlikely to affect chickpea growth, nodulation, or nitrogen fixation. A pot experiment was used to define the influence of chlorsulfuron on the growth, nodulation, and nitrogen fixation of chickpeas. The presence of chlorsulfuron in the soil reduced the nodulation and nitrogen fixation of the chickpea plants. Pre-exposing rhizobia to chlorsulfuron before inoculating them into pots with germinating chickpea seeds, reduced the number of nodules formed by 51%. Exposure of chickpeas and chickpea rhizobia to chlorsulfuron can adversely affect the formation and activity of symbiotic nitrogen-fixing nodules, even when only the rhizobial inoculant is exposed briefly to the herbicide.
Maturation temperature and rainfall influence seed dormancy characteristics of annual ryegrass (Lolium rigidum)
Authors: Steadman Kathryn J. , Ellery Amanda J. , Chapman Ross , Moore Andrew , Turner Neil C.
Published: October 2004

The role of temperature and rainfall during seed development in modulating subsequent seed dormancy status was studied for Lolium rigidum Gaud. (annual ryegrass). Climatic parameters relating to geographic origin were compared with annual ryegrass seed dormancy characteristics for seeds collected from 12 sites across the southern Western Australian cropping region. Seed germination was tested soon after collection and periodically during subsequent after-ripening. Temperature in the year of seed development and long-term rainfall patterns showed correlations with aspects of seed dormancy, particularly the proportion of seeds remaining dormant following 5 months of after-ripening. Consequently, for one population the temperature (warm/cool) and water supply (adequate/reduced) during seed development were manipulated to investigate the role of maternal environment in the quantity and dormancy characteristics of seeds produced. Seeds from plants grown at warm temperatures were fewer in number, weighed less, and were less dormant than those from plants grown at cool temperature. Seeds that developed under both cool temperature and reduced moisture conditions lost dormancy faster than seeds from well-watered plants. Seed maturation environment, particularly temperature, can have a significant effect on annual ryegrass seed numbers and seed dormancy characteristics.
Human fatty acid synthase: Structure and substrate selectivity of the thioesterase domain
Authors: Chakravarty Bornali , Gu Ziwei , Chirala Subrahmanyam S. , Wakil Salih J. , Quiocho Florante A.
Published: October 2004

Human fatty acid synthase is a large homodimeric multifunctional enzyme that synthesizes palmitic acid. The unique carboxyl terminal thioesterase domain of fatty acid synthase hydrolyzes the growing fatty acid chain and plays a critical role in regulating the chain length of fatty acid released. Also, the up-regulation of human fatty acid synthase in a variety of cancer makes the thioesterase a candidate target for therapeutic treatment. The 2.6-Å resolution structure of human fatty acid synthase thioesterase domain reported here is comprised of two dissimilar subdomains, A and B. The smaller subdomain B is composed entirely of α-helices arranged in an atypical fold, whereas the A subdomain is a variation of the α/β hydrolase fold. The structure revealed the presence of a hydrophobic groove with a distal pocket at the interface of the two subdomains, which constitutes the candidate substrate binding site. The length and largely hydrophobic nature of the groove and pocket are consistent with the high selectivity of the thioesterase for palmitoyl acyl substrate. The structure also set the identity of the Asp residue of the catalytic triad of Ser, His, and Asp located in subdomain A at the proximal end of the groove.
Compression of Soliton Pairs in Dispersion-Decreasing Fibres
Authors: Cui Hu  , Xu Wen-Cheng  , Liu Song-Hao
Published: October 2004

The compression of soliton pairs in fibres with decreasing dispersion is studied. The results show that generation of high-quality stable pedestal-free pulses is strongly affected by the interaction between soliton pairs. The initial phase difference between two solitons can modify soliton interaction and can make the neighbouring solitons never collide periodically. The soliton pairs can be compressed selectively so that one of the two solitons can achieve enhanced compression by controlling the initial phase difference.
Enhancement of Ad‐p53 Therapy with Docetaxel in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Yoo George H. , Piechocki Marie P. , Oliver Jeffery , Lonardo Fulvio , Zumstein Lou , Lin Ho‐Sheng , Kim Harold , Shibuya Terry Y. , Shehadeh Nasfat , Ensley John F.
Published: October 2004

Objective: The objective of this project was to determine the mechanisms in which docetaxel enhances Ad‐p53 tumor suppressive effects in head and neck cancer.

Background: In advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), the 5‐year survival rate is less than 40%. Because patients with advanced HNSCC have a high rate of local‐regional failure (40‐60%) with existing treatment modalities, aggressive local therapy approaches need to be developed. Previous data show that docetaxel or Ad‐p53 alone have significant anti‐tumor activity in HNSCC. Before testing whether a combination approach (Ad‐p53 and docetaxel) could be developed in clinical trials, preclinical experiments were performed.

Methods: The p53 gene was overexpressed in 2 head and neck squamous carcinoma (HNSCC) cell lines, HN30 and HN12, and a murine Balb/c mucoepidermoid carcinoma (BMEC) cell line. Docetaxel's enhancement of adenoviral transduction (bGAL expression), coxsakie‐adenovirus receptor (CAR) expression, and Ad‐p53 induction of apoptosis (Annexin V expression) were measured. The modulation of regulators in the cell cycle, apoptosis and signal transduction pathways were measured using Western blot.

Results: Docetaxel increased adenoviral transduction, which was dependent on the dose of docetaxel and levels of Ad‐bGAL. The enhanced viral transduction was due in part to the upregulation of the CAR protein. Pretreatment with docetaxel enhanced Ad‐p53‐induced apoptosis through increased expression of exogenous p53. Together, the combination of docetaxel and Ad‐p53 altered expression of key regulators in the cell cycle, apoptosis and signal transduction pathways with an increase in the expression of p53, bax, cleaved PARP, cleaved caspase‐3 and phosphorylation of c‐Jun at position at 63Ser. Cyclin A and B1 expression were down regulated by docetaxel and Ad‐p53. When comparing the docetaxel‐resistant to sensitive cell lines, the altered expression of p27 and skp1 by docetaxel and Ad‐p53 were dissimilar between these cell lines.

Conclusions: Docetaxel enhanced Ad‐p53 transduction and increased expression of exogenous p53 gene transfer, apoptosis, and antitumor mechanisms. These results support a clinical combination of docetaxel with p53 gene therapy in patients with head and neck cancer.
Intratympanic Injections of Dexamethasone for Long‐Term Control of Vertigo
Authors: Barrs David M.
Published: October 2004

Objective: To examine whether intratympanic injection of dexamethasone is effective in long‐term control of vertigo for patients with Ménière disease whose dietary and diuretic therapy has proved unsuccessful.

Study Design: Retrospective chart review performed at Carolina Ear and Hearing Clinic, Raleigh, North Carolina.

Methods: Thirty‐four patients with intractable Ménière disease were given intratympanic injections of corticosteroids using dexamethasone 10 mg/mL for 4 weeks. The control of vertigo was documented in the 2‐year period after completion of the course of injections. All patients were continued on a diet and a diuretic during the study period.

Results: Only 24% (8 of 34) of patients had control of vertigo with a single course of injections. Three patients had control of vertigo for 12 months and responded to a repeat series of injections with good control. Five patients who had recurrent vertigo at 6 months or earlier responded to repeat injections, for a total of 16 patients (47%) whose vertigo was controlled with a single course or multiple courses of intratympanic injections of corticosteroids.

Conclusions: Approximately one‐half of patients (47%) with intractable Ménière disease achieved control of vertigo with one or more courses of intratympanic injections of corticosteroids. A single course of treatment alone can be expected to produce long‐term control of vertigo in only one‐fourth (24%) of patients. This study indicates that intratympanic injections of corticosteroids should not be expected to give long‐term control of vertigo in patients with Ménière disease. Multiple courses of intratympanic injections of corticosteroids, in conjunction with other treatments, are necessary in most patients with Ménière disease who have intractable vertigo.
Endoscopic Management of Hypopharyngeal Stenosis after Organ Sparing Therapy for Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Sullivan Christopher A. , Jaklitsch Michael T. , Haddad Robert , Goguen Laura A. , Gagne Adele , Wirth Lori J. , Posner Marshall R. , Tishler Roy B. , Norris Charles M.
Published: October 2004

Objectives: The objective of this study was to describe and evaluate the efficacy of an endoscopic technique for the management of postchemoradiation hypopharyngeal stenosis in head and neck cancer patients.

Study Design: Retrospective review.

Methods: Patients with postchemoradiation hypopharyngeal stenoses were identified from the Dana Farber Cancer Institute head and neck database. Patients who had undergone extirpative surgery and reconstruction were excluded. All patients underwent either anterograde dilatation (AD) by the lead author (C.A.S.) or transgastric retrograde esophagoscopy with anterograde dilatation (TREAD) (C.A.S., M.T.J.). Chemoradiation records, clinic notes, operative reports, and swallowing test data were reviewed. Removal of the gastric feeding tube was considered the endpoint of rehabilitation.

Results: Seventeen patients had postcricoid stenoses identified by modified barium swallow. Endoscopy confirmed 15 postcricoid stenoses and 2 proximal esophageal stenoses. Nine (53%) patients had partial stenoses, and eight (47%) had complete stenoses. Eight partial stenosis patients underwent 10 AD procedures and 3 TREAD procedures. Eight complete stenosis patients underwent 9 TREAD procedures and 26 subsequent AD procedures. Fifteen of 16 (93%) patients resumed swallowing after dilatation. Thirteen (81%) patients maintained their weight on an oral diet and had their gastric feeding tubes removed. Complications included hypopharyngeal perforation (13%), abdominal wall infection (6%), stomach wall dehiscence (6%), and chondroradionecrosis of the cricoid cartilage (6%).

Conclusions: Postcricoid hypopharyngeal stenosis may be partial or complete after organ sparing chemoradiation for head and neck cancer. Using the TREAD technique, successful rehabilitation of swallowing can be achieved with a low incidence of complications.
Significance of Nasal Polyps in Chronic Rhinosinusitis: Symptoms and Surgical Outcomes
Authors: Deal R Tyson , Kountakis Stilianos E.
Published: October 2004

Purpose: To demonstrate the significance of nasal polyps on the symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and their influence on surgical outcomes.

Methods: Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data comparing two groups of patients diagnosed with CRS with and without nasal polyps that underwent surgical management with a minimum 1‐year follow‐up period. Subjective scoring was performed using the Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐20) questionnaire. Computed tomography (CT) scans were compared using the Lund‐Mackay scoring system. The two groups were analyzed for the need of revision surgery.

Results: Two hundred one patients underwent surgical management of CRS over a 3‐year period. One hundred four were male, 97 were female, and the average age was 49 (range 18–80) years. Polyps were present in 78 patients with CRS, whereas 123 patients did not have polyps. The average CT score was 18 for the polyp group and 9.5 for the patients without polyps (P = .0000). Nonpolyp group SNOT‐20 scores were 26.5 preoperatively with improvement to 5.1 at 6 months and 5.0 at 12 months postoperatively (85% improvement). Polyp group SNOT‐20 preoperative scores averaged 32.2 with improvement to 9.2 at 6 months and 9.1 at 12 months postoperatively (81% improvement, P = .003). Nine patients required revision surgery (4.5%), eight (10%) who had polyps and one (0.8%) who did not (P = .002).

Conclusion: The presence of nasal polyps has a significant negative impact on patients with CRS. Patients with nasal polyps have more severe symptoms with less improvement after operative intervention, higher CT scores at presentation, and a significantly higher need for revision surgery.
Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori in Patients with Nasal Polyps: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Koc Can , Arikan Osman Kursat , Atasoy Pnar , Aksoy Altan
Published: October 2004

Objectives: The aim of the study is to determine the presence of H. pylori in nasal polyps by both immunohistochemical staining with H. pylori antibody of biopsy specimens and enzyme‐linked immunoadsorbent assay (ELISA) of sera.

Study Design: A prospective, controlled, clinical trial.

Methods: We enrolled 30 patients with nasal polyps and 20 controls with middle concha bullosa undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). Blood samples of both the study and control groups were evaluated for anti‐H. pylori specific immunoglobulin (Ig)G antibodies by ELISA. In addition, biopsy specimens of the removed polyps and the mucosal part of middle conchas were examined by the immunohistochemical analysis with H. pylori antibody.

Results: In the blood samples, specific IgG antibodies to H. pylori were found in 26 (86.7%) of 30 polyp patients and 17 (85%) of 20 controls. In 6 (20%) of the 30 patients, H. pylori was identified in the nasal polyp tissue, but it was not detected in the mucosal part of the middle concha specimens. No significant statistical difference was observed for H. pylori antibodies by ELISA among the patients with nasal polyps and the control group (Fisher's exact test, P = .59). However, there was a statistical difference between the polyp biopsy specimens and the control biopsy specimens by immunohistochemical staining (Fisher's exact test, P = .037).

Conclusions: This study indicates that H. pylori was found in increased prevalence in the nasal polyps. However, further controlled epidemiologic studies would be necessary to confirm our results and clarify the potential underlying pathogenetic mechanisms.
Safety of Minimally Invasive Pituitary Surgery (MIPS) Compared with a Traditional Approach
Authors: White David R. , Sonnenburg Robert E. , Ewend Matthew G. , Senior Brent A.
Published: October 2004

Introduction: Transsphenoidal hypophysectomy is becoming progressively less invasive. Recent endoscopic techniques avoid nasal or intraoral incisions, use of nasal speculums, and nasal packing. Several case series of endoscopic endonasal pituitary surgery have been reported, but relatively little data exists comparing complication rates to more traditional approaches. We compare the complications of our first 50 cases of endoscopic, minimally invasive pituitary surgery (MIPS) to our last 50 sublabial transseptal (SLTS) procedures.

Study Design: Retrospective case control study.

Methods: Fifty consecutive MIPS procedures and 50 consecutive SLTS procedures were reviewed retrospectively. Complication rates were analyzed and compared.

Results: Total complications per patient (P = .005), postoperative epistaxis (P = .031), lip anesthesia (P = .013), and deviated septum (P = .028) occurred more often in the SLTS group. No significant difference was seen in cerebrospinal fluid leak, meningitis, ophthalmoplegia, visual acuity loss, diabetes insipidus, intracranial hemorrhage, or death. In the MIPS group, length of stay (P < .001), use of lumbar drainage (P = .007), and nasal packing (P < .001) were also significantly reduced.

Conclusions: Endoscopic endonasal pituitary surgery provides improved complication rates when compared with SLTS approaches. In addition, we note advantages of the MIPS approach, including reduced length of hospital stay and decreased use of lumbar drainage and nasal packing.
Basilar Membrane Displacement Related to Endolymphatic Sac Volume
Authors: Xenellis John E. , Linthicum Fred H. , Webster Paul , Lopez Ricardo
Published: October 2004

Objective: To demonstrate that the amount of basilar membrane displacement toward the scala tympani and its attachment to the bony wall of the scala tympani (i.e., interscalar septum) in hydropic temporal bones is related to the intraosseous endolymphatic sac volume.

Study Design: A retrospective analysis of temporal bones from individuals with the histopathologic diagnosis of “endolymphatic hydrops.”

Methods: Fifty‐two temporal bones, from 38 patients, with the histopathologic findings of “endolymphatic hydrops” were analyzed microscopically. Data were obtained regarding the displacement of the basilar membrane, endolymphatic sac volume, hair cell loss, strial atrophy, ganglion cell loss, and last measured auditory thresholds. The relationships between these variables were examined statistically.

Results: Nineteen of the 52 temporal bones (36.5%) with endolymphatic hydrops showed displacement of the basilar membrane toward the scala tympani in the apical and middle segments of the cochlea. A reduced volume of the endolymphatic sac was significantly related to increased severity of basilar membrane deformation (Rho = −.646; P ≤ .001). Multiple regression analysis showed that severity of basilar membrane deformation was the single best predictor of low frequency thresholds while loss of hair cells was the best predictor of pure‐tone average threshold.

Conclusions: The displacement of the basilar membrane in the apical and middle segments that may occur with endolymphatic hydrops, to the extent that it impinges on the interscalar septum, is related to a reduction in the intraosseous endolymphatic sac volume.
Sinonasal Sarcoidosis: Review and Report of Fifteen Cases
Authors: Braun Jean Jacques , Gentine André , Pauli Gabrielle
Published: October 2004

Objectives: Sinonasal sarcoidosis remains a poorly understood and uncommon chronic granulomatous disease of unclear origin. We have attempted to characterize the main clinical and radiologic criteria for diagnosis and to discuss the treatment.

Methods: A retrospective study of 15 cases of chronic, symptomatic, and biopsy‐proven sinonasal sarcoidosis and a review of the literature are realized.

Results: Among the 15 patients, there were 8 women and 7 men with a mean age of 44 years. The most frequent presentation was a chronic, often crusty, rarely destructive inflammatory rhinosinusitis with nodules on the septum and/or the turbinates. Pulmonary sarcoidosis was associated in 12 cases. Involvement of the nasopharynx, the pharyngolarynx, the skin, the lachrymal and salivary glands, and the liver was associated in some cases. Levels of angiotensin‐converting enzyme were elevated in 10 cases and normal in 3 cases. Gallium scan performed in three cases was positive. Radiologic studies showed nodules on the septum and/or the turbinates in 14 cases, complete or subtotal opacification of the sinuses and/or the nasal cavities in 13 cases, and nasopharyngeal or pharyngolaryngeal lesions in 4 cases. Treatment with corticosteroids, methotrexate, azathioprine, and surgery appear globally disappointing in view of the side effects and the relapses during a long follow‐up (3–15 yr; mean, 6 yr).

Conclusion: On the basis of this study, we propose the following diagnostic criteria: 1) histopathologic confirmation of noncaseating granuloma; 2) chronic rhinosinusitis poorly responsive to conventional treatment and radiologic evidence of rhinosinusitis, often with nodules on the septum and/or the turbinates; 3) elevated level of angiotensin‐converting enzyme; 4) positive gallium scan (if performed); 5) frequent evidence of systemic, especially pulmonary, sarcoidosis; 6) no evidence of other granulomatous diseases, such as Wegener granulomatosis.
Evaluation of Donor Site Function and Morbidity of the Fasciocutaneous Radial Forearm Flap
Authors: de Bree Remco , Hartley Chris , Smeele Ludwig E. , Kuik Dirk J. , Quak Jasper J. , Leemans C René
Published: October 2004

Objective: To assess the results of the use of the free radial forearm flap in terms of objective morbidity and subjective patient response.

Study Design: The donor sites were examined from 37 patients who underwent reconstruction with a free fasciocutaneous radial forearm flap in the head and neck after ablative tumor surgery.

Methods: Patients were asked to fill in a written questionnaire. The following additional tests were performed: resting skin temperature of digits I and V, temperature after submersion in iced water, grip and pinch tests, and goniometry.

Results: Resting skin temperature was slightly decreased for donor hands 0.69°C (P < .001) and 0.31°C (P = .048) for digits I and V, respectively, but recovery after submersion in iced water showed no differences. The strength tests and goniometry revealed no statistically significant findings between donor and control sides. On the questionnaire, 9 patients (24%) reported slightly impaired function, 14 (38%) could not wear their watch or bracelet, 17 (46%) reported numbness, 5 (14%) reported soreness, 5 (14%) reported itching, 6 (16%) reported cold intolerance, 5 (14%) reported bad cosmetic appearance, and 9 (24%) expressed the opinion that they were insufficiently counseled.

Conclusion: There is a negligible objective morbidity of a free radial forearm flap harvest procedure, but a number of patients have subjective complaints when asked. Elaborate presurgical counseling can probably reduce these complaints.
Neurologic Diagnosis and Treatment in Patients with Computed Tomography and Nasal Endoscopy Negative Facial Pain
Authors: Paulson Eric P. , Graham Scott M.
Published: October 2004

Objective: To determine the helpfulness of specialist neurology referral for patients with facial pain, a normal sinus computed tomography (CT) scan, and normal nasal endoscopy findings.

Study Design: Prospective identification of patients and analysis of data approved by the Institutional Review Board.

Methods: The data of 104 consecutive patients presenting with facial pain, a normal sinus CT scan, and normal nasal endoscopy findings were reviewed. The patients presented to a single rhinologist in a tertiary care institution. All patients were referred for specialist neurologic evaluation and potential treatment. Further information was obtained from a patient survey.

Results: Of the 104 patients, 81 were women and 23 were men. The average age was 46 years (range, 22–85). Fifty‐six had clear CT scans, 48 had minimal change, and all had negative endoscopies. Twenty‐nine had previous unsuccessful sinus surgery. The average follow‐up period was 10.5 months. Forty of 75 patients seeing a neurologist were seen on multiple occasions. Four percent of patients seen by a neurologist had an unsuspected serious intracranial diagnosis. The most common diagnoses were migraine (37%), rebound headache (17%), chronic daily headache (17%), and obstructive sleep apnea (16%). Overall, 58% improved on medical therapy; 60% of those with a clear CT scan improved, and 53% of those with minimal change on CT scan improved (P = .749).

Conclusions: Facial pain remains a difficult symptom to diagnose and treat in rhinologic practice. Patients often undergo surgery without help. Most patients with facial pain, a normal sinus CT scan, and normal endoscopy findings benefit from neurologic consultation. Serious intracranial pathologic conditions can be excluded and diagnosis‐specific pharmacogenetic therapy instituted with improvement in more than 50%.
Tissue Microarray Analysis Reveals Prognostic Significance of COX‐2 Expression for Local Relapse in T1–2N0 Larynx Cancer Treated with Primary Radiation Therapy
Authors: Cho Edward I. , Kowalski Diane P. , Sasaki Clarence T. , Haffty Bruce G.
Published: October 2004

Objective: The purpose of this analysis is to determine whether a significant correlation exists between cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) expression and local relapse in a large cohort of patients with T1 to 2N0 laryngeal cancer treated with primary radiation therapy.

Methods and Materials: Clinical and molecular analyses were conducted on 123 patients with biopsy‐proven T1 to 2N0 laryngeal cancer. Clinical prognostic factors included pretreatment hemoglobin, age, sex, race, T stage, tumor subsite, beam energy, biologically equivalent dose, therapy duration, and treatment date. Molecular prognostic factors included COX‐2, p53, and Ki‐67 expression. Expression levels were determined by immunohistochemistry on paraffin‐embedded tissues arrayed on tissue microarrays. Multivariate analysis was done with the Cox proportional hazards model.

Results: Thirty‐two patients have locally relapsed, for an actuarial 5‐year local relapse‐free rate of 70.4%. On multivariate analysis, positive COX‐2 expression predicted local relapse after radiation therapy. The relative risk (RR) for local relapse with COX‐2 positivity was 2.57 (95% CI, 1.21–5.47; P = .01). Other prognostic factors for local relapse included negative Ki‐67 expression (RR = 5.72; 95% CI, 2.04–16.1; P < .001), T2 stage (RR = 2.98; 95% CI, 1.39–6.38; P = .005), and therapy duration greater than 43 days (RR = 6.04; 95% CI, 1.37–26.7; P = .02).

Conclusions: Positive COX‐2 expression predicts for local relapse in T1 to 2N0 larynx cancer in a multivariate model. This relationship may have potential therapeutic implications regarding the use of COX‐2 inhibitors during radiation therapy for optimal outcome.
Safe and Reliable Sound Threshold Measures with Direct Vibration of the Ossicular Chain
Authors: Maassen Marcus M. , Rodriguez Jorge Jesus , Herberhold Stephan , Vonthein Reinhard , Zimmermann Rainer , Baumann Ingo , Brosch Sibylle , Mauz Paul S. , Pfister Markus , Zalaman Ilse M. , Löwenheim Hubert , Zenner Hans P.
Published: October 2004

Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of piezoelectric malleus vibration audiometer (MVA), which presents micromechanical vibrations to the umbo membranae tympani.

Study Design: Phase I study performed in a tertiary referral center (University Hospital).

Methods: The coupling rod of the MVA was moved slowly through the outer ear canal toward the eardrum with a micromanipulator. Coupling was completed when the rod tip touched the umbo membranae tympani. Basic audiologic measures of sound threshold obtained with direct stimulation of the malleus are presented. We used MANOVA (multivariate repeated measures ANOVA) to investigate the repeatability of MVA thresholds from one day to the other and when decoupling and retracting the coupling rod 2 mm off the umbo. We also selected the MANOVA to test for unwanted bone‐conduction threshold shifts after MVA application. We assessed normality of the data by quantile‐quantile plots of the residuals.

Results: Twenty‐eight male and 10 female subjects with normal hearing, 22.2 to 34.6 years old (median age, 27.2 yr) underwent an examination. Thirty‐six subjects underwent MVA, because 2 of the 38 subjects who volunteered for the study have not undergone the procedure due to the external auditory canal anatomy preventing application of the MVA. The results show that it is possible to safely and reliably measure thresholds of direct vibration of the ossicular chain. Using pure tone audiograms, no pure tone bone‐ and/or air‐conduction threshold shifts occurred after the procedure. None of the subjects reported any other ear‐related symptoms such as vertigo, tinnitus, or dizziness. Geometric mean vibratory displacements at threshold ranged from 0.55 nm at 250 Hz to 0.03 nm at 6 kHz. MANOVA demonstrated a repeatability of MVA thresholds.

Conclusion: Malleus vibration audiometry will not allow exact linkage of actual implantable hearing aid. But the present study demonstrates that MVA can provide an audiometric tool for assessing ossicular function and integrity prior to implantation of an electronic hearing amplifier.
Monitoring Tumor Recurrence with Nasopharyngeal Swab and Latent Membrane Protein‐1 and Epstein‐Barr Nuclear Antigen‐1 Gene Detection in Treated Patients with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Hao Sheng‐Po , Tsang Ngan‐Ming , Chang Kai‐Ping
Published: October 2004

Objectives: Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) is closely related to nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Detection of EBV genomic DNA in a nasopharyngeal swab specimen may indicate the presence of NPC, and the EBV genomic DNA is only detected in patients with NPC and not in other head and neck cancers. This study aims to prove that detection of EBV genomic DNA by means of the latent membrane protein (LMP)‐1 gene and the Epstein‐Barr nuclear antigen (EBNA)‐1 gene in the nasopharynx in NPC patients after radiation therapy indicates local recurrence of NPC.

Study Design: Prospective.

Methods: Nasopharyngeal swab with polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based LMP‐1 and EBNA‐1 gene detection was used to monitor local recurrence in 84 NPC patients who completed radiation therapy.

Results: Of the 12 patients demonstrating positive LMP‐1 and EBNA‐1 gene, 11 had local recurrence, and 10 of them had early rT1 mucosal recurrence. Subsequent salvage nasopharyngectomy controlled local disease in nine. Only one local recurrence in the skull base failed to show LMP‐1 gene initially. Detection of LMP‐1 gene and later verification with EBNA‐1 gene from nasopharyngeal swabs in NPC patients after radiation therapy predicted local recurrence with a sensitivity of 91.7% and a specificity of 98.6%.

Conclusions: Nasopharyngeal swab with LMP‐1 and EBNA‐1 gene detection is a useful and reliable method to monitor local recurrence in NPC patients. It helps to detect recurrence early and may improve local control and enhance survival.
Superstition and Post‐Tonsillectomy Hemorrhage
Authors: Kumar Veena V. , Kumar Naveen V. , Isaacson Glenn
Published: October 2004

Objectives/Hypothesis: The objective was to determine whether post‐tonsillectomy hemorrhages occur more frequently in redheaded children, in patterns of threes, on Friday‐the‐13th days, or with the full moon.

Study Design: Case‐control analysis.

Methods: The authors performed multiple statistical analyses of all children undergoing tonsillectomy at Temple University Children's Medical Center (Philadelphia, PA) during a 29‐month period. Children readmitted to the hospital with or without surgical control of bleeding were compared with children who did not bleed. Relation of post‐tonsillectomy hemorrhages to the phase of the moon was evaluated using a standard normal deviate. The frequency of surgery performed on Friday‐the‐13th days was compared with a differently dated Friday chosen at random. Clusters of three hemorrhages in a 7‐day period were recorded. Families of children were contacted and asked whether their child had red hair. A χ2 analysis compared redheaded and non‐redheaded tonsillectomy patients.

Results: Twenty‐eight of 589 tonsillectomy cases performed required readmission for bleeding events. Twenty tonsillectomies occurred on a full‐moon day, resulting in one bleeding event. One cluster of three post‐tonsillectomy hemorrhages occurred in a 7‐day period. Four of the children who bled had red hair. Two tonsillectomies occurred on Friday the 13th, with no associated hemorrhage. Statistical analysis revealed a random pattern to post‐tonsillectomy hemorrhage.

Conclusion: Post‐tonsillectomy hemorrhages do not occur in clusters of three and are not more frequent with the full moon or on Friday the 13th. The bleeding rate among children with red hair is similar to that of non‐redheaded children.
Albumin‐Coated Tympanostomy Tubes: Prospective, Double‐Blind Clinical Study
Authors: Kinnari Teemu J. , Rihkanen Heikki , Laine Timo , Salonen Eeva‐Marjatta , Jero Jussi
Published: October 2004

Objectives: Coating an implant with albumin prevents adhesion of proteins, bacteria, and platelets and thus may lead to its improved and prolonged function. Previously, we have demonstrated the inhibition of binding of fibronectin, one of the most adhesive glycoproteins, on human serum albumin (HSA)‐coated tympanostomy tubes and the durability of this binding inhibition in a 8‐month trial. We have also demonstrated that the HSA coating inhibits the binding of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa to titanium plates. This prospective study evaluated the effect of albumin coating on tympanostomy tube sequelae and on the outcome of tympanostomized patients.

Study Design: Double‐blind, prospective, randomized clinical trial.

Methods: Two otolaryngological centers in southern Finland enrolled 179 pediatric patients. Number of tube occlusions and otorrhea and tube ventilation time in the ears with HSA‐coated titanium tympanostomy tubes were compared with the contralateral ear with its uncoated, otherwise identical titanium tube during a 9‐month follow‐up period.

Results: In HSA‐coated tubes, average ventilation time was slightly longer and the number of early tube occlusions significantly less (P < .05). Moreover, in patients with perioperative bleeding, the coating prolonged average ventilation time of tympanostomy tubes significantly (P < .05).

Conclusions: HSA coating reduces early tube occlusions by preventing adherence of blood and secretion.
Temporal Artery Biopsy: Concise Guidelines for Otolaryngologists
Authors: Meyers Arlen D. , Said Sherif
Published: October 2004

Temporal arteritis, also known more accurately as giant cell arteritis (GCA), is a multisystem vasculitis of elderly people that involves large and medium‐sized blood vessels with a particular predilection to the craniofacial branches of the carotid arteries, especially the temporal artery. Symptoms include visual loss, headaches, fever, audiovestibular symptoms, and jaw claudication. Otolaryngologists are consulted to care for these patients to confirm the diagnosis, to rule out other causes of face pain and headaches, to care for patients with audiovestibular manifestations of GCA, and to perform temporal artery biopsies. Consequently, it is important for consultants to understand the signs and symptoms and natural history of GCA and the indications, technique, and complications of temporal artery biopsy. GCA can appear with protean head and neck manifestations. Otolaryngologists should be aware of these and understand the issues concerning maximizing the yield from temporal artery biopsies.
Quality of life case studies for university teaching in sustainable development
Authors: Lan Yuan Lim
Published: October 2004

The teaching of subjects such as quality of life and sustainable development presents tremendous challenges because of the nebulous and multifaceted nature of the subject matter. An important advantage of the case‐study approach to teaching is its capacity for understanding complexity in particular contexts. The purpose of this article is to examine quality of life and the use of its case studies for teaching and learning. It will discuss some issues on quality of life research and their difficulties in definition and evaluation, illustrated with actual case studies.
Sustainable chemistry: an analysis of the concept and its integration in education
Authors: van Roon André , Govers Harrie A.J. , John R. , van Weenen Hans
Published: October 2004

It is now generally accepted that most of today’s (chemical) industry is unsustainable by design. Sustainable development is gaining interest as a concept, on the basis of which efforts are made to redesign production and consumption systems, in order to solve global environmental, economic and social problems. The aim of this paper is to investigate how the role of chemistry and chemistry education is changing through sustainable development. Sustainable chemistry is emerging as a new concept, but what is it? Different ideas on how to give content to sustainable chemistry have resulted in various new concepts, focussing on different levels of organisation, ranging from the level of molecules up to the societal level. After studying and comparing some of the related concepts concerned, a general definition of sustainable chemistry is presented. It is concluded that more research is needed, especially aimed at the higher levels of organisation, in order to be able to formulate a more detailed definition.