bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting storm runoff from different land‐use classes using a geographical information system‐based distributed model
Authors: Liu Y. B. , Gebremeskel S. , De Smedt F. , Hoffmann L. , Pfister L.
Published: October 2005

A method is presented to evaluate the storm runoff contributions from different land‐use class areas within a river basin using the geographical information system‐based hydrological model WetSpa. The modelling is based on division of the catchment into a grid mesh. Each cell has a unique response function independent of the functioning of other cells. Summation of the flow responses from the cells with the same land‐use type results in the storm runoff contribution from these areas. The model was applied on the Steinsel catchment in the Alzette river basin, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, with 52 months of meteo‐hydrological measurements. The simulation results show that the direct runoff from urban areas is dominant for a flood event compared with runoff from other land‐use areas in this catchment, and this tends to increase for small floods and for the dry‐season floods, whereas the interflow from forested, pasture and agricultural field areas contributes to recession flow. It is demonstrated that the relative contribution from urban areas decreases with flow coefficient, that cropland relative contribution is nearly constant, and that the relative contribution from grassland and woodland increases with flow coefficient with regard to their percentage of land‐use class areas within the study catchment. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical assessment of a dynamical relaxation data assimilation scheme for a catchment hydrological model
Authors: Hurkmans Ruud , Paniconi Claudio , Troch Peter A.
Published: October 2005

A dynamical relaxation scheme for assimilating observation data into a three‐dimensional Richards equation‐based numerical model was presented in Paniconi et al. (2003. Advances in Water Resources 26: 161–178). The technique, known as Newtonian relaxation or nudging, relies on a forcing term to reduce the difference between computed and observed values of a state variable such as soil moisture content. The forcing term contains data quality and nudging influence factors, and, importantly, spatio‐temporal weighting functions that determine the manner and extent of spreading of a state variable beyond its measurement points and times. In this paper, a series of numerical experiments is run for a small catchment in southern Belgium to investigate the performance of the nudging algorithm. In a first set of runs for a short (10‐day) simulation period, the model's sensitivity to influence radii and forcing strength parameters is examined. Here, we find that prediction errors decrease and numerical cost increases for increasing values of the parameters, except for the vertical radius of influence, where intermediate values produced the lowest prediction errors. Based on a compromise between numerical and physical results for this 10‐day experiment, ‘optimal’ values were selected for these parameters, and a second, much longer (8‐month) set of simulations is used to explore the effect of the observation frequency on the quality of the assimilation. Here, it is found that prediction errors are lowest at an intermediate frequency, whereas serious numerical difficulties occur at a high frequency. As could be expected, computational costs are highest when frequent observations are assimilated. However, since CPU times increase only very slowly as more observation datasets are added, we can conclude that the nudging method is computationally efficient, albeit quite sensitive in terms of numerical performance to its parameter settings, and thus requires further study to devise more robust formulations of the algorithm. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New automatic control strategies for sludge recycling and wastage for the optimum operation of predenitrification processes
Authors: Ma Yong , Peng Yongzhen , Wang Shuying
Published: October 2005

Dynamic modelling and simulation is increasingly being employed as an aid in the design and operation of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). In this paper a simulation model is used to investigate the control of an activated sludge process. Two different control strategies to optimise nitrogen removal in a predenitrification process are presented, which are based on the control of the sludge blanket height (SBH) or sludge age (sludge retention time, SRT) and mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS) in the reactor, by adjusting the sludge wastage and sludge recycle flow rates, respectively. It is shown how the recycle and wastage flow rate variables can be employed to continually maintain plant operation in the presence of disturbances. The performance of the control strategies has been assessed by the COST 624 benchmark plant and a pilot plant. The results have shown the robustness of the implementation and the efficiency of the proposed control strategies, which have been operated automatically in a safe, stable and optimum operating point, improving effluent quality and reducing energy costs. Consideration is also given as to how plant operation could be optimised in the long‐term in order to meet the yearly total nitrogen standard. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
A transient expression vector for recombinant protein production in Chinese hamster ovary cells
Authors: Liao Mimi ML , Sunstrom Noelle‐Anne
Published: October 2005

An expression vector was specifically designed for use in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells to enhance the level of protein production in a transient expression system. Two key components that can increase protein production transiently are the promoter used to drive recombinant gene expression and the template copy number. In this study the modified and metal‐inducible metallothionein (M2.6) promoter was shown to be superior to the human cytomegalovirus (CMV) and to the simian virus SV40 promoters. Plasmid replication was achieved using the Polyoma (Py) virus origin of replication (PyOri) and the Py Large T antigen (PyLT). An expression vector containing Py elements was shown to replicate extensively in CHO cells. The combination of the metal‐inducible M2.6 promoter and episomal replication of the expression vector, named pPyOriLT resulted in elevated levels of transgene expression following transient transfection of CHO cells Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Assessment of naphthalene biodegradation efficiency of Pseudomonas and Burkholderia strains tested in soil model systems
Authors: Filonov Andrei E , Puntus Irina F , Karpov Alexander V , Kosheleva Irina A , Akhmetov Lenar I , Yonge David R , Petersen James N , Boronin Alexander M
Published: October 2005

The kinetic parameters of the naphthalene degradation process performed by indigenous and introduced microorganisms were studied in soil model systems. The introduction of active naphthalene‐degrading strains Pseudomonas putida BS3701 and G7 in soil model systems accelerated the naphthalene destruction process by a factor of three to four. Moreover, the addition of salicylate (0.1 mg g−1 dry soil) to the systems containing the introduced microbial strains again doubled the rate of the naphthalene degradation process. To provide a quantitative assessment of the naphthalene biodegradation process, a mathematical model describing the bacterial growth, the consumption of the naphthalene, the production and subsequent consumption of naphthalene cleavage products, and the consumption of organic soil substances in soil model systems was developed. An approach for assessment of the degradation efficiency of low solubility polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon provided by bacteria of genera Pseudomonas and Burkholderia in soil was suggested. The approach will enable comparison and selection of the most active degraders, which have the potential for application in biotechnologies for cleaning of soils contaminated by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Oligo(p‐phenyleneethynylene)‐based coil–rod–coil triblock copolymer: Synthesis and controlled self‐organization in solution
Authors: Li Kun , Guo Liang , Liang Ziqi , Thiyagarajan Pappannan , Wang Qing
Published: October 2005

The self‐assembling ability of block copolymers offers an attractive strategy for the organization of π‐conjugated polymers. This article reports the synthesis of a coil–rod–coil triblock copolymer consisting of oligo(p‐phenyleneethynylene) as the rodlike segment and polystyrene as the coil‐like segment. The chemical structure of the afforded triblock copolymer has been fully characterized by various spectroscopic techniques such as NMR, Raman, gel permeation chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry, ultraviolet–visible, and fluorescence spectroscopy. The small‐angle neutron scattering and photophysical measurements indicate that this triblock copolymer exhibits unique solvatochromatic behaviors through the interplay of aggregation‐induced π–π stacking and planarization of the conjugated backbone. Supramolecular gel nanostructures have been produced via the controlled assembly of the polymer into H‐aggregates. It has been demonstrated that the use of the solvent composition to influence chain conformations and thus to manipulate the packing of the conjugated polymer blocks is important for achieving control in the assembly of conducting polymers and associated optical characteristics. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 6007–6019, 2005
Synthesis of poly(dimethylsiloxane)‐containing diblock and triblock copolymers by the combination of anionic ring‐opening polymerization of hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane and nitroxide‐mediated radical polymerization of methyl acrylate, isoprene, and styrene
Authors: Miura Yozo , Miyake Kazuki
Published: October 2005

Poly(dimethylsiloxane)‐containing diblock and triblock copolymers were prepared by the combination of anionic ring‐opening polymerization (AROP) of hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane (D3) and nitroxide‐mediated radical polymerization (NMRP) of methyl acrylate (MA), isoprene (IP), and styrene (St). The first step was the preparation of a TIPNO‐based alkoxyamine carrying a 4‐bromophenyl group. The alkoxyamine was then treated with Li powder in ether, and AROP of D3 was carried out using the resulting lithiophenyl alkoxyamine at room temperature, giving functional poly(D3) with Mw/Mn of 1.09–1.16. NMRPs of MA, St, and IP from the poly(D3) at 120 °C gave poly(D3‐b‐MA), poly(D3‐b‐St), and poly(D3‐b‐IP) diblock copolymers, and subsequent NMRPs of St from poly(D3‐b‐MA) and poly(D3‐b‐IP) at 120 °C gave poly(D3‐b‐MA‐b‐St) and poly(D3‐b‐IP‐b‐St) triblock copolymers. The poly(dimethylsiloxane)‐containing diblock and triblock copolymers were analyzed by 1H NMR and size exclusion chromatography. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 6153–6165, 2005
Thermosensitive gel formation of novel polypeptides containing a collagen‐derived Pro‐Hyp‐Gly sequence and an elastin‐derived Val‐Pro‐Gly‐Val‐Gly sequence
Authors: Morihara Yasushi , Ogata Shin‐Ichi , Kamitakahara Masanobu , Ohtsuki Chikara , Tanihara Masao
Published: October 2005

A triple‐helix‐forming collagen model peptide, (prolyl‐trans‐4‐hydroxyprolyl‐glycyl)10 [(Pro‐Hyp‐Gly)10], and a thermosensitive elastin‐derived pentapeptide, valyl‐prolyl‐glycyl‐valyl‐glycyl (Val‐Pro‐Gly‐Val‐Gly), were copolymerized in various mole ratios using 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl)‐carbodiimide hydrochloride and 1‐hydroxybenzotriazole in dimethyl sulfoxide at 20 °C. All of the obtained polypeptides have molecular weight higher than 103 and contain a triple‐helical structure, and showed an inverse phase transition from transparent solution to turbid suspension in response to a rise in temperature. The lower critical solution temperature of the polypeptide solution decreased upon increasing the content of Val‐Pro‐Gly‐Val‐Gly. Furthermore, polypeptides containing 82–86 mol % of Val‐Pro‐Gly‐Val‐Gly in composition showed reversible gel formation, suggesting that (Pro‐Hyp‐Gly)10 acts as a hydrated unit and Val‐Pro‐Gly‐Val‐Gly acts as a thermosensitive crosslinking point. These biodegradable thermosensitive polypeptides may be useful for biomedical applications, including, as a scaffold for tissue regeneration. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 6048–6056, 2005
In‐house validation of a liquid chromatography/electrospray tandem mass spectrometry method for confirmation of chloramphenicol residues in muscle according to Decision 2002/657/EC
Authors: Vinci Floriana , Guadagnuolo Grazia , Danese Vincenzo , Salini Marco , Serpe Luigi , Gallo Pasquale
Published: October 2005

In this work we present an in‐house validation study for the confirmatory analysis of chloramphenicol (CAP) in muscle according to the Commission Decision 2002/657/EC requirements. CAP is extracted in acetonitrile and after liquid‐liquid partitioning with n‐hexane is identified and quantitatively determined by ion trap liquid chromatography/electrospray ionisation tandem mass spectrometry (LC/ESI‐MS/MS) analysis in the negative ion mode. CAP was identified using the precursor ion and at least two product ions, meeting the qualitative and quantitative criteria set by the European Commission in the Decision 2002/657/EC for confirmation of prohibited veterinary drug residues. We calculated mean drug recoveries, CCα and CCβ of the method, and reported data on specificity, ruggedness and within‐laboratory reproducibility. Finally, we point out and discuss some problems and questions arising from controversy about the application of Decision 2002/657/EC. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differentiation of isobaric compounds using chemical ionization reaction mass spectrometry
Authors: Wyche Kevin P. , Blake Robert S. , Willis Kerry A. , Monks Paul S. , Ellis Andrew M.
Published: October 2005

The technique of proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry (PTR‐MS) couples a proton transfer reagent, usually H3O+, with a drift tube and mass spectrometer to determine concentrations of volatile organic compounds. Here we describe a first attempt to use chemical ionization (CI) reagents other than proton transfer species inside a PTR‐MS instrument. The ability to switch to other types of CI reagents provides an extra dimension to the technique. This capability is demonstrated by focusing on the ability to distinguish several isobaric aldehydes and ketones, including the atmospherically important molecules methacrolein and methyl vinyl ketone. Two CI reagents were selected, H3O+ and NO+, both being cleanly generated in a low intensity radioactive source prior to injection into the drift tube. By recording spectra with both of these reagents, the contributions from different isobaric molecules can be separated by virtue of their unique spectrometric ‘fingerprints’. The work demonstrates that this form of instrumentation is not restricted to proton transfer reagents and is the basis of a more general technique, chemical ionization reaction mass spectrometry (CIRMS). Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Amniotic Fluid Infection Syndrome and Neonatal Mortality Caused by Eikenella corrodens
Authors: Kostadinov Stefan , Pinar Halit
Published: October 2005

Different microorganisms not commonly found in the female genital tract have been implicated as causative agents for amniotic fluid infections. Eikenella corrodens is part of the normal flora in the human oral cavity and upper respiratory tract. It is most commonly found in the clinical setting of polymicrobial infections involving human bite wounds, head and neck infections, and periodontitis. On rare occasions, E. corrodens has been reported as a cause of gynecologic infections. There are only 3 reports of documented E. corrodens chorioamnionitis of the placenta resulting in preterm labor, one of which is associated with early neonatal demise. We report a case of preterm delivery of twin infants at 23 weeks of gestation with documented E. corrodens infection in 1 twin who was not resuscitated.
Role of water content in dielectric properties and delayed luminescence of bovine Achilles’ tendon
Authors: Gulino M. , Bellia P. , Falciglia F. , Musumeci F. , Pappalardo A. , Scordino A. , Triglia A.
Published: October 2005

In order to investigate the role of water network in collagen structure, measurement of dielectric permittivity was performed on bovine Achilles’ tendon as a function of water content. The data show a sudden decrease of the permittivity at each measured frequency value when the tendon humidity decreases. A similar behaviour is shown by the total number of photons emitted in delayed luminescence (DL) experiments. The comparison of the two results is in agreement with the hypothesis that DL is connected to the excitation and subsequent decay of collective electronic states, whose properties depend on the organized structure of the system.
Nitric oxide induces tau hyperphosphorylation via glycogen synthase kinase‐3β activation
Authors: Zhang Yong-Jie , Xu Ya-Fei , Liu Ying-Hua , Yin Jun , Wang Jian-Zhi
Published: October 2005

Nitric oxide is associated with neurofibrillary tangle, which is composed mainly of hyperphosphorylated tau in the brain of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the role of nitric oxide in tau hyperphosphorylation is unclear. Here we show that nitric oxide produced by sodium nitroprusside (SNP), a recognized donor of nitric oxide, induces tau hyperphosphorylation at Ser396/404 and Ser262 in HEK293/tau441 cells with a simultaneous activation of glycogen synthase kinase‐3β (GSK‐3β). Pretreatment of the cells with 10 mM lithium chloride (LiCl), an inhibitor of GSK‐3, 1 h before SNP administration inhibits GSK‐3β activation and prevents tau from hyperphosphorylation. This is the first direct evidence demonstrating that nitric oxide induces AD‐like tau hyperphosphorylation in vitro, and GSK‐3β activation is partially responsible for the nitric oxide‐induced tau hyperphosphorylation. It is suggested that nitric oxide may be an upstream element of tau abnormal hyperphosphorylation in AD.
Transgenic tobacco plants overexpressing glyoxalase enzymes resist an increase in methylglyoxal and maintain higher reduced glutathione levels under salinity stress
Authors: Yadav Sudesh Kumar , Singla-Pareek Sneh L. , Reddy M.K. , Sopory S.K.
Published: October 2005

The mechanism behind enhanced salt tolerance conferred by the overexpression of glyoxalase pathway enzymes was studied in transgenic vis‐à‐vis wild‐type (WT) plants. We have recently documented that salinity stress induces higher level accumulation of methylglyoxal (MG), a potent cytotoxin and primary substrate for glyoxalase pathway, in various plant species [Yadav, S.K., Singla‐Pareek, S.L., Ray, M., Reddy, M.K. and Sopory, S.K. (2005) MG levels in plants under salinity stress are dependent on glyoxalase I and glutathione. Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 337, 61–67]. The transgenic tobacco plants overexpressing glyoxalase pathway enzymes, resist an increase in the level of MG that increased to over 70% in WT plants under salinity stress. These plants showed enhanced basal activity of various glutathione related antioxidative enzymes that increased further upon salinity stress. These plants suffered minimal salinity stress induced oxidative damage measured in terms of the lipid peroxidation. The reduced glutathione (GSH) content was high in these transgenic plants and also maintained a higher reduced to oxidized glutathione (GSH:GSSG) ratio under salinity. Manipulation of glutathione ratio by exogenous application of GSSG retarded the growth of non‐transgenic plants whereas transgenic plants sustained their growth. These results suggest that resisting an increase in MG together with maintaining higher reduced glutathione levels can be efficiently achieved by the overexpression of glyoxalase pathway enzymes towards developing salinity stress tolerant plants.
Analyses of Bering Sea bottom-trawl surveys in Norton Sound: absence of regime shift effect on epifauna and demersal fish
Authors: Hamazaki Toshihide , Fair Lowell , Watson Leslie , Brennan Elisabeth
Published: October 2005

This study retrospectively examined evidence of ocean climate regime shift effects on epifauna and demersal fish of Norton Sound, Alaska, northeast Bering Sea, based on triennial bottom-trawl surveys from 1976 to 2002. Throughout the period, benthic fauna was dominated by sea stars (48–78%), followed by cods (5–19%), flatfish (5–15%), sculpins (1.5–7%), and crabs (2–6%). From 1976 to 2002, the cpue index of total species increased exponentially (4.5% y−1) by threefold with some declines in 1991 and 1999. The increase was also observed in sea stars (5.1% y−1), flatfish (6.1% y−1), and crabs (2.5% y−1). However, trends of cods and sculpins were mixed. Regression analysis showed the cpue index of total species to be positively correlated with survey years and bottom-water temperature. However, bottom-water temperature, when considered by itself, was not significant. Results suggest that regime shifts caused biomass increases of Norton Sound epifauna and demersal fish.
In situ target-strength measurement of young hairtail (Trichiurus haumela) in the Yellow Sea
Authors: Zhao Xianyong
Published: October 2005

The target strength of hairtail (Trichiurus haumela) in the Yellow Sea was measured in situ with a 38 kHz, split-beam echosounder on 2 January 2001. The fish measured were of the 2000 year class, its anal length ranged from 62 to 115 mm, with a mean of 89.8 mm. The mean target strength of these young hairtail was estimated to be −49.2 dB, with a 95% confidence interval of (−49.4, −49.0) dB. This provided a rare and useful reference for the acoustic-abundance estimation of hairtail.
Antimicrobial Therapy for Children with Adenotonsillar Hypertrophy and Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Prospective Randomized Trial Comparing Azithromycin vs Placebo
Authors: Don Debra M. , Goldstein Nira A. , Crockett Dennis M. , Ward Sally Davidson
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE:

Multiple clinical trials demonstrate the value of administering antibiotics for recurrent tonsillitis. However, there is no consensus as to the role of antibiotics in the management of adenotonsillar hypertrophy and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It has been suggested that antibiotics may reduce adenotonsillar size, improve obstructive symptoms, and obviate the need for surgery. The goal of this pilot study was to evaluate the efficacy of a broad‐spectrum antibiotic in the management of adenotonsillar hypertrophy and OSA.

METHODS:

Twenty‐two children ages 2 through 12, with evidence of OSA, were enrolled in this double‐blinded, prospective clinical trial. Children were randomly assigned into 1 of 2 groups. Group I received azithromycin for a 30‐day period (12 mg/kg on days 1‐5; the regimen was repeated on days 11‐15 and days 21‐25). Group II received a placebo administered in the same regimen for a 30‐day period. Overnight polysomnography was performed before and within 2 weeks after drug administration.

RESULTS:

Polysomnographic indices of OSA severity appear to indicate an improvement in the antibiotic as compared to the placebo group, but a comparison of mean ± standard error for each parameter failed to demonstrate statistical significance using the paired t test. Only 1 of 11 (9%) children had normalization of their polysomnographic parameters.

CONCLUSIONS:

These results suggest that a course of a broad‐spectrum antibiotic may be effective in temporarily improving OSA due to adenotonsillar hypertrophy, but does not appear to obviate the need for surgery.
Quality of Life after Adenotonsillectomy for SDB in Children
Authors: Mitchell Ron B. , Kelly James
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the relationship between quality of life and the relative severity of sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB) and to compare changes in quality of life after adenotonsillectomy in children with similar demographics but with either obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) or with milder forms of SDB.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING:

All study participants underwent polysomnography to document the severity of SDB. The effectiveness of adenotonsillectomy for the relief of SDB was evaluated by using the OSA‐18 quality of life survey (OSA‐18). Preoperative and postoperative OSA‐18 scores for each group of children (OSAS and mild SDB) were compared by using a repeated measures ANOVA. Changes between the 2 groups were compared by using an analysis of covariance with the preoperative score as a covariate.

RESULTS:

The study population included 61 children, 43 with OSAS and 18 with mild SDB. The demographics in the 2 groups were similar. The mean apnea‐hypopnea index for children with OSAS was 21 (range, 5‐46), and for children with mild SDB, it was 3 (range 0‐4.9). The total OSA‐18 score and the scores for all domains showed significant improvement after surgery for both groups of children (P <. 001). A comparison of mean difference in total and domain scores for the 2 groups of children was not significant.

CONCLUSIONS AND SIGNIFICANCE:

Preoperative values for the OSA‐18 total and domain scores are high in children with either OSAS or mild SDB. Both groups of children show a dramatic improvement in quality of life after adenotonsillectomy and the degree of improvement is similar. Fortunately, surgical therapy with adenotonsillectomy is associated with marked improvement in quality of life for children with either OSAS or mild SDB.
Powered Instrumentation in the Treatment of Tracheal Granulation Tissue for Decannulation
Authors: Fang Tuan‐Jen , Lee LI‐Ang , Li Hsueh‐Yu
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the outcomes of powered instrumentation tracheal surgery (PITS) in patients with tracheal granulation tissue following tracheostomy that caused or exacerbated airway obstruction and impeded decannulation.

STUDY DESIGN:

Retrospective case review.

METHODS:

Sixteen patients that accepted PITS for decannulation from tracheal granulation tissue were reviewed. The surgical procedure was performed with the assistance telescope connected to a television monitoring system. The success of PITS was defined as a decannulation for 3 months without a recurrence of airway obstruction.

RESULTS:

The average operation time was 34 minutes. No complication was met in the perioperative period. Fourteen cases (87.5%) were successfully decannulated within 3 days following PITS. The 2 cases that failed successful decannulation had undergone insertion of a tracheal stent for their hindered tracheal stenosis.

CONCLUSIONS:

The preliminary results reveal that the new operation modality, PITS, is a safe and simple method for the treatment of tracheal granulation tissue and could be a useful alternative for benign tracheal lesions.
Combination Docetaxel plus Vitamin D3 as an Immune Therapy in Animals Bearing Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Young M.I. Rita , Lathers Deanne M. R.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE:

Background tumor growth results in the mobilization of immune inhibitory CD34+ progenitor cells. However, vitamin D3 can differentiate the CD34+ cells into immune stimulatory dendritic cells. This study determined if docetaxel treatment could increase the impact of the vitamin D3 to generate dendritic cells.

METHODS:

The murine squamous cell carcinoma model, SCC VII/SF, which is often used as a head and neck cancer model, was used to determine the immunological effects of two cycles of docetaxel plus vitamin D3.

RESULTS:

Vitamin D3 with or without docetaxel was similarly effective in reducing CD34+ cell levels within the spleen, lymph nodes, and tumor. Dendritic cell levels were similarly enhanced in the lymph nodes by vitamin D3 alone or combined with docetaxel. However, the combination treatment caused a prominent increase in intratumoral levels of active T cells, which was not observed by the individual treatments.

CONCLUSION:

Incorporating docetaxel treatment with vitamin D3 differentiation‐inducing treatment enhances intratumoral immune responsiveness.
Surgical Treatment of Retraction Pocket with Bone Pate: Scutum Plasty for Cholesteatoma
Authors: Hinohira Yasuyuki , Yanagihara Naoaki , Gyo Kiyofumi
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVES:

Postoperative attic retraction pocket is a critical issue and may be indicative of disease recurrence after canal‐up tympanoplasty for middle ear cholesteatoma. Although scutum plasty is an acceptable procedure that can be used to prevent the pocket formation, how the scutum is reconstructed has remained controversial. The aim of this study was to clarify the value of scutum plasty using bone pate.

STUDY DESIGN:

Retrospective study.

SETTING:

Bone pate scutum plasty was performed in 69 ears during first‐stage operations. We attempted to reconstruct a smooth attic bony wall. At the time of the second‐stage operations, the results of the scutum plasty were examined.

RESULTS:

The incidence of retraction pocket was statistically reduced from 20.2% to 5.8%.

CONCLUSION:

Although the reconstructed scutum showed atrophy to some extent, bone pate scutum plasty is effective in preventing postoperative retraction pocket if a smoothly shaped attic wall can be reconstructed.
Awareness of General Practitioners towards Treatment of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux: A British Survey
Authors: Karkos P.D. , Thomas L. , Temple R.H. , Issing W.J.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE:

Patients with acid reflux can occasionally present with atypical symptoms such as globus pharyngeus, constant throat clearing, chronic cough, hoarseness, catarrh, choking episodes or asthma‐like symptoms. The aim of this survey was to determine whether general practitioners are aware of the atypical manifestations of reflux and the differences in treatment between laryngopharyngeal reflux and gastroesophageal reflux.

DESIGN:

Questionnaire Survey.

SETTING:

Primary Care

RESULTS:

One hundred and sixty general practitioners who routinely refer patients to our Department of Otolaryngology were selected and a postal survey was conducted. One hundred and fifty of these responded (94% response rate). The commonest symptoms for which proton pump inhibitors are prescribed are heartburn (65%), followed by a combination of heartburn and other symptoms (15%), chronic cough (4%), choking episodes (4%), asthmalike symptoms (3%), hoarseness (2%), globus (2%), catarrh (1%), dysphagia (1.5%), frequent throat clearing (1.5%), halitosis and/or bitter taste (1%).

CONCLUSIONS:

Our results suggest that the majority of the general practitioners surveyed are unaware of the entity laryngopharyngeal reflux or reflux symptom index. More awareness is required in the primary care setting for early recognition of patients with suspected laryngopharyngeal reflux.
Endoscopic Frontal Sinus Obliteration: A New Technique for the Treatment of Chronic Frontal Sinusitis
Authors: Ung Feodor , Sindwani Raj , Metson Ralph
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVES:

Patients who fail endoscopic drainage procedures for chronic frontal sinusitis often require obliteration of the frontal sinus with abdominal fat. The purpose of this study was to evaluate an endoscopic technique for frontal sinus obliteration.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING:

Retrospective case‐control. Thirty‐five patients underwent frontal sinus obliteration using either an endoscopic (n = 10) or conventional osteoplastic flap (n = 25) technique from 1994 to 2004 at an academic medical center.

RESULTS:

Patients undergoing endoscopic obliteration had less blood loss (P = 0.006), decreased operative time (P = 0.016), and a shorter hospital stay (P = 0.003) compared to osteoplastic control subjects. All 3 surgical complications occurred in the control group. No patients required additional surgery for frontal sinusitis.

CONCLUSIONS:

The endoscopic approach to frontal sinus obliteration appears to reduce patient morbidity and should be considered in the surgical management of advanced frontal sinus disease.

SIGNIFICANCE:

This is the first report of a minimally‐invasive technique for frontal sinus obliteration.
The Effects of Previously Acquired Skills on Sinus Surgery Simulator Performance
Authors: Glaser Aylon Y. , Hall Charles B. , Uribe Jose I.S. , Fried Marvin P.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE:

The Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Simulator is currently being studied as a tool for otolaryngology resident training. While examining performance patterns on the simulator, we sought to define any relationships that may exist between students' previously acquired skills and their performance on the simulator.

METHODS:

Twenty‐six medical students were enrolled in our study. After completing their trials, they were asked to complete a 28‐item questionnaire. This questionnaire included yes/no questions as well as 10‐point Likert scale instruments.

RESULTS:

Only 4 students did not respond to the questionnaire. Significant contributions to simulator performance were elucidated for a number of previously learned skills, but most were short‐lived. For example, experienced video gamers were significantly better at hazard avoidance in the simulator's novice mode (P =. 03), but their advantage dissipated as they advanced to intermediate mode trials. In addition, students' handedness contributed to simulator performance for only the first 3 trials (P =. 04), but this relationship, too, was no longer statistically significant in later trials.

CONCLUSIONS:

Some study students had skills and characteristics that significantly aided them in their ability to perform surgery on the simulator. However, these benefits were short‐lived, and these results suggest that practicing plays a more important and long‐standing role than other factors in surgical simulator performance. It follows that surgical simulation should play a more prominent role in surgical education because residents who practice on simulators such as this are, in turn, practicing for the reality of the operating room.
Does Increased Electrocautery during Adenoidectomy Lead to Neck Pain?
Authors: Henry Lakeisha R. , Gal Thomas J. , Mair Eric A.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVES:

The objective was to assess the impact of electrocautery on complications in adenoidectomy. We sought to quantify cautery‐related temperature changes in prevertebral fascia that may occur during the procedure, retrospectively evaluate the incidence of cautery‐related complications, and prospectively assess the role of cautery in postoperative neck pain.

METHODS:

Three consecutive related trials were performed. Initially, adenoidectomy was performed on 20 fresh cadavers, using a thermister to evaluate temperature changes in the prevertebral fascia after electrocautery (30 watts over a 30‐second period). Next, retrospective analysis of adenoidectomy complications in 1206 children over a 5‐year period was performed. Based on these findings, a prospective study of the incidence of neck pain following adenoidectomy was performed in a cohort of 276 children. Adenoidectomy technique, wattage, and duration of electro‐cautery were recorded for each child. Children with significant neck pain were evaluated with MRI.

RESULTS:

Peak thermister readings averaged 74°C, for a mean change of 51.8°C. Complications observed in retrospective analysis included neck pain (3), Grisel's syndrome (1), prolonged velopharyngeal insufficiency (1), retropharyngeal edema (1), and severe nasopharyngeal stenosis (1). The incidence of neck pain in the prospective study was 12% (33 pts), and was independent of adenoidectomy technique, cautery wattage, or duration of cautery use. MRIs revealed edema without abscess.

CONCLUSIONS:

Cautery can result in substantial temperature changes in the surgical adenoid bed. Despite this, the incidence of complications, specifically neck pain, associated with adenoidectomy is low, although underreported. Complications appear to be independent of adenoidectomy technique and cautery use.
Beef, Pork, and Milk Allergy (Cross Reactivity with Each Other and Pet Allergies)
Authors: Mamikoglu Bulent
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE:

The purposes of this study were to examine milk allergic patients to determine concomitant reactivity between milk, beef, pork and cat and dog dander and other common inhalant allergens.

METHODS:

19 patients were selected according to their Immuno‐CAP results, which had increased Ig‐E levels against milk, pork or beef. Patients were also tested against Johnson grass, short ragweed, cat/dog dander and d. farina.

RESULTS:

Pearson's test revealed strong correlation between beef and pork, beef and milk, pork and milk Ig‐E counts (consecutively r2 = 0.89, r2 = 0.81, r2 = 0.60 and p < 0.01. All cat allergic patients also appeared to be allergic to either beef/pork meat or milk. The correlation between pork and dog dander Ig‐E counts was also significant (r2 = 0.38, p < 0.01). No correlation detected between milk‐meat‐pet and grass‐weed‐dust allergies.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION:

Patients who are known to have pet allergies may need to be screened for meat and milk allergy. Milk allergic patients may also need to avoid cows and pork meat.
Optimal Duration of Allergic Rhinitis Clinical Trials
Authors: Krouse John H. , Roland Peter S. , Marple Bradley F. , Wall G. Michael , Hannley Maureen , Golla Suman , Hunsaker Darrell
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE:

Guidelines have been published by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products (EMEA) for the conduct of seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) and perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR) studies. These guidelines have differences regarding the duration of such trials: the FDA suggests 2 weeks for SAR and 4 weeks for PAR but the EMEA suggests 2 to 4 weeks for SAR and 6 to 12 weeks for PAR trials. In the interest of global harmonization, it would be desirable to have a uniform duration of such trials so that investigators, internationally, would be able to readily compare results for various types of treatments based on a single standard. Therefore, we performed an evidence‐based review to answer the clinical question, What is the optimal duration for SAR and PAR clinical trials?

METHODS:

We performed a MEDLINE search of the published literature from 1995 to the present. We used appropriate search terms, such as allergic rhinitis, seasonal allergic rhinitis, perennial allergic rhinitis, SAR, and PAR, to identify pertinent articles. These articles were reviewed and graded according to the evidence quality.

RESULTS:

After an initial screening of more than 300 articles, 138 articles were analyzed thoroughly. No study specifically addressed the question of the optimal duration of SAR or PAR clinical trials.

CONCLUSIONS:

We conclude that the current FDA (draft) guidelines calling for a study length of 2 weeks for the assessment of drug efficacy for SAR and 4 weeks for the study of drug efficacy in PAR are appropriate and that longer study periods are not likely to add meaningfully to the assessment of drug efficacy.
A Prospective Randomized Single‐Blind Trial Comparing Ultrasonic Scalpel Tonsillectomy with Tonsillectomy by Blunt Dissection in a Pediatric Age Group
Authors: Oko Michael O. , Ganly Ian , Loughran Sean , Clement W. Andrew , Young David , Geddes Neil K.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE:

To determine if there was a difference in postoperative pain and dietary intake when comparing ultrasonic scalpel (US) with blunt dissection tonsillectomy (BD) in children.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING:

A prospective single‐blind randomized controlled trial comparing US and BD tonsillectomy in children aged between 5 and 13 years who undergo tonsillectomy for recurrent acute tonsillitis in a specialized pediatric hospital.

RESULTS:

One hundred and twenty‐two children were enrolled. Ninety‐three (76%) patients completed dietary and pain scales. Pain was significantly greater in the US group on postoperative days 1 and 3 (P = 0.0466, P = 0.0084) and overall (P = 0.0003). Dietary intake scores were significantly better in the US group on days 1, 5, 7, and 9, however, these scores were inconsistent with dietary intake scores declining in both groups throughout the study. Blood loss was statistically significantly greater in the BD group (33.1 ml vs 3.0 ml, P < 0.0001). There were no significant differences for all other observed outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS:

US tonsillectomy causes significantly more pain overall and on postoperative days 1 and 3 when compared to BD tonsillectomy. US tonsillectomy causes less intraoperative blood loss, the clinical significance of which is questionable.

SIGNIFICANCE:

US tonsillectomy appears to cause more postoperative pain than BD tonsillectomy in children aged 5 to 13 years undergoing tonsillectomy for recurrent acute tonsillitis.
Electrocochleography in Retrosigmoid Vestibular Nerve Section for Intractable Vertigo Caused by Meniere's Disease
Authors: Krueger Wesley W. O. , Storper Ian S.
Published: October 2005

Interest in electrocochleography has increased in recent years because of the discovery of an elevated summating potential to action potential amplitude ratio (SP/AP ratio) in patients with endolymphatic hydrops caused by Meniere's disease or perilymph fistula. It was the purpose of this investigation to determine whether the intraoperative SP/AP ratio will decrease after vestibular nerve section in patients with intractable Meniere's disease. Fourteen patients with medically intractable classic Meniere's disease underwent retrosigmoid vestibular nerve section. Intraoperative transtympanic electrocochleography was performed with alternating click stimuli presented at 95 dB HL. In all patients the SP/AP ratio was recorded before the skin incision (“baseline” condition) and after the dura was closed (“closing” condition). Statistical analysis was applied to the recorded data. In 11 (79%) patients, the SP/AP ratio was found to be elevated above 0.30 in the baseline state. In 13 (93%) patients, the SP/AP ratio decreased more than 25% after the nerve was sectioned. These results were highly statistically significant (p < 0.001). We conclude that the SP/AP ratio does decrease in patients with Meniere's disease after undergoing retrosigmoid vestibular nerve section and offer a possible explanation. (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1997;116:593–6.)
Neonatal Hearing Screening with Otoscopy, Auditory Brain Stem Response, and Otoacoustic Emissions
Authors: Doyle Karen Jo , Burggraaff Barbara , Fujikawa Sharon , Kim Ju , Macarthur Carol J.
Published: October 2005

A study was performed to investigate the relationship between external and middle ear factors and hearing screening results by auditory brain stem response (ABR) and transient evoked otoacoustic emissions (EOAEs). The ears of 200 well newborns aged 5 hours to 48 hours underwent screening by ABR and EOAEs, followed by otoscopic examination. The pass rates for ABR and EOAE screening were 88.5% and 79%, respectively. On otoscopic examination, 13% (53 of 400) ears had occluding vernix obscuring the view of the tympanic membrane. Cleaning of vernix was attempted in ears that failed ABR or EOAE screening. Seventeen ears that failed ABR were cleaned, and 12 (71%) of them passed repeat ABR. Thirty‐three ears that failed EOAE screening were cleaned, and 22 (67%) of them passed repeat emissions testing. Cleaning vernix increased the pass rates for ABR and EOAE screening to 91.5% and 84%, respectively. Decreased tympanic membrane mobility was found in 9% of ears that could be evaluated otoscopically. Increased failure rates for both ABR and EOAE screening were found in infant ears with decreased tympanic membrane mobility, but significance testing could not be performed because of inadequate sample size. Prevalence of occluding external canal vernix and middle ear effusion as a function of increasing infant age were studied. Implications for newborn hearing screening are discussed.
Minimizing Upper Lip and Incisor Teeth Paresthesias in Approaches to Transsphenoidal Surgery
Authors: Schoem Scott R. , Khan Anjum , Wilson William R. , Laws Edward R.
Published: October 2005

Currently popular transsphenoidal approaches to the pituitary include sublabial, external rhinoplasty, alotomy, and transnasal techniques. The conventional sublabial approach remains the workhorse method despite postoperative lip edema, potential difficulty for denture wearers, and troublesome persistent upper lip and incisor teeth numbness. We traced the courses of the nasopalatine, infraorbital, and anterior superior alveolar nerves in 41 cadaveric half‐head dissections to determine the exact contribution to upper lip and incisor teeth innervation. We then conducted a retrospective patient survey of 25 sublabial, 28 external rhinoplasty, 23 alotomy, and 12 transnasal approaches to the hypophysis to assess the incidence of upper lip and incisor teeth paresthesias lasting longer than 1 month. We conclude that rhinoplastic techniques are superior to the sublabial approach in limiting upper lip and incisor teeth numbness without compromising neurosurgical exposure for hypophysectomy.
Problems and Pitfalls in Community‐Based Outcomes Research
Authors: Isenberg Steven F. , Rosenfeld Richard M.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE

To assess the feasibility of multisite community‐based outcomes research.

DESIGN

Prospective observational study of variations in treating acute external otitis by otolaryngologists and primary care practitioners.

SETTING

Community‐based independent otolaryngology practices.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients with external otitis treated by otolaryngologists in Project Solo, a nonprofit, grassroots organization of independent physicians united for quality, patient advocacy, and cost containment.

METHODS

Confidential (bar‐coded), disease‐specific outcomes questionnaires completed by patients (12 items) and by participating physicians (15 items). Response to treatment was measured with a follow‐up patient questionnaire (3 items).

RESULTS

Nine patients were recruited from 5 of 29 enrolled otolaryngologists. Primary care practitioners were more likely to prescribe oral antimicrobials than otolaryngologists (100% vs. 44%, p = 0.03), but less likely to insert a wick in the external auditory canal (11 % vs. 78%, p = 0.02). Poor recruitment was caused by an overly long and complex survey, data collection at multiple time points, lack of time during office hours, cumbersome data collection requirements, inadequate ongoing communication, and a lack of enthusiasm for the project.

CONCLUSIONS

Future efforts at implementing a multisite outcomes study will require shorter questionnaires, smoother integration of the survey process with regular office flow, simplified procedures for data exchange, frequent communication with data collection sites, and motivational programs for participating physicians and their office staff.
Sexually dimorphic patterns of space use throughout ontogeny in the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta)
Authors: Boydston Erin E. , Kapheim Karen M. , van Horn Russell C. , Smale Laura , Holekamp Kay E.
Published: October 2005

Observational and telemetry data were used in a geographic information system database to document the ontogenetic development of sexually dimorphic patterns of space use among free‐living spotted hyenas Crocuta crocuta in Kenya. No measures of space use were sexually dimorphic among den‐dwelling cubs, nor were sex differences apparent among hyenas that had ceased using dens for shelter until these animals were c. 30 months of age. Significant sex differences emerged late in the third year of life, and persisted throughout the remainder of the life span; males were found farther from the geographic centre of the natal territory than were females, and the mean size of individual 95% utility distributions was larger for males than females. Most dispersal events by radio‐collared males were preceded by a series of exploratory excursions outside the natal territory. All collared males dispersed, but no collared females did so. Most dispersing males moved only one or two home ranges away at dispersal, roughly 8–10 km distant from the natal territory, before settling in a new social group.