Cholinergic signaling at the body wall neuromuscular junction distally inhibits feeding behavior in Caenorhabditis elegans.

Complex biological functions within organisms are frequently orchestrated by systemic communication between tissues. In the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans, the pharyngeal and body wall neuromuscular junctions are two discrete structures that control feeding and locomotion, respectively. Separate, the well-defined neuromuscular circuits control these distinct tissues.

Office-Based Procedures for Nasal Airway Obstruction.

Treatment of common rhinologic problems with in-office surgical procedures has increased dramatically in response to patient preference, evolving insurance patterns, and changes in coding and reimbursement. Because this is an emerging practice, there is not a lot of evidence published about how to best perform these techniques. This article provides practical advice from experienced surgeons related to logistics and anesthetic techniques for conducting in-office surgical treatment of nasal airway obstruction; an overview of office set-up and necessary equipment; and specific procedural considerations.

Clinical evaluation of a bioresorbable implant for medialization of the middle turbinate in sinus surgery.

Background: During endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), postoperative lateralization of the middle turbinate can lead to scarring and obstruction of key drainage pathways, including the osteomeatal complex. The technique of suturing the middle turbinate to the nasal septum to enhance exposure can be difficult and time consuming. This study presents the first clinical results using the Middle Turbinate Implant (MTI), a device composed of absorbable copolymer polylactide-co-glycolide and intended to medialize the middle turbinate during surgical procedures such as ESS.