bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence for the mechanisms of formation of radiolysis products using a deutero labeled triglyceride
Authors: Meidani Javad , Nawar W. W. , Merritt C. , Bazinet M. L.
Published: May 2008

Abstract and Summary

Several previous studies of the radiolysis of fats and related compounds such as pure triglycerides, fatty acid methyl esters, and free fatty acids, have led to the hypothesis that radiolytic products result from selective cleavages at specific locations. This hypothesis is confirmed by the results of mass spectrometric analysis of the compounds formed upon gamma irradiation of tributyrin labeled with deuterium in the glycerol moiety. Compounds derived from alkyl, acyl, and acyloxy cleavages are characterized by the absence of deuterium whereas those involving the glyceryl moiety are found to carry the deuterium labels.
Polyamides from carboxystearic acid
Authors: Kohlhase W. L. , Frankel E. N. , Pryde E. H.
Published: May 2008

Abstract and Summary

A series of polyamide and copolyamide resins were prepared from carboxystearic acid or methyl carboxystearate, with ethylenediamine, hexamethylenediamine, adipic acid, or caprolactam as coreactants. None of the product formulations appeared suitable for use in hot melt adhesives. More promising were the liquid, reactive polyamides made from carboxystearic acid and polyamines. These products gave excellent adhesion value in scouting tests when used as one component in 2‐component epoxy adhesives and coatings. In other applications, C‐19 polyamides had enhanced solubility and low melting characteristics to make them attractive as modifiers.
Edible oil deodorizing systems
Authors: Gavin Arnold M.
Published: May 2008

Abstract and summary

Deodorization of fats and oils is necessary to remove the disagreeable, flavor and odors that are naturally present or created during processing. Steam stripping of the oil is used to remove these volatile flavor and odor components. This paper discusses the process specifications for deodorization and the mechanical design of edible oil doedorizers.
Accumulation of crude protein and oil contents
Authors: Bemis W. P. , Scheerens J. C. , Berry J. W. , Dreher M. L. , Weber C. W.
Published: May 2008

Abstract and Summary

The crude fat content of whole seed and the crude protein level of defatted embryos were monitored on successive days after pollination. Seed of Buffalo gourd,Curcurbita foetidissima HBK, harvested during September–October, 1976, obtained a maximum oil and protein level in 38 to 42 days after pollination. Maximum protein and oil accumulation in seeds of theCucurbita digitata group (sample period June–July, 1976) andApodanthera undulata (sample period August–September, 1976) occurred between 34 and 38 days and 30 and 34 days after pollination, respectively. Variability within sample periods was attributed to the heterogeneity of the populations.
Determination of water content of granulated detergents
Authors: Yamaguchi Shinichiro , Kubo Mitsugi , Konishi Kazuo
Published: May 2008

Abstract and Summary

A quick analytical procedure was described for the determination of water content of granulated detergents. A constant weight loss of sample was obtained within 5 min by microwave drying. The weight loss agrees with the water content by the modified distillation method. The coefficient of variation was 0.7%.
Determination of residual hexane in solvent extracted meals
Authors: Wan P. J. , Chittwood M. , Cater C. M. , Mattil K. F.
Published: May 2008

Abstract and summary

A simple modification of the volitilization procedure improved the reproducibility and covered a wide range of residual hexane in meal with good precision. A comparison study showed that the modified volatilization method released and assayed more residual hexane from the meals than did the direct gas chromatographic technique.
Jojoba—Genetically controlled botanical traits
Authors: Yermanos D. M.
Published: May 2008

Abstract and summary

The discovery of correlations between botanical traits and wax quantity and quality in the seed would facilitate early detection and elimination of undesirable genotypes in a jojoba breeding program. The traits studied were: (a) branching; upright, spherical, and prostrate strains were found. (b) Leaf size; variability in mean leaf size is continuous ranging from 14×6 mm (long×short leaf axis) to 39×16 mm. (c) Leaf color; a light yellow leaf mutant was found. (d) Earliness; strains were found with early flowering and seed development which might escape unfavorable effects of winter frosts. (e) Number of fruit per node; strains were selected which instead of single fruit have clusters of two to ten fruit in more than 50% of the inflorescences. (f) Fruiting pattern; strains with a flower at each node instead of at every other node were found. (g) Male to female ratio; a significant deviation from a 1∶1 ratio was found in favor of male plants.
Enrichment of eicosenoic and docosadienoic acids fromLimnanthes oil
Authors: Chang Shu‐Pei , Rothfus J. A.
Published: May 2008

Abstract and summary

The long chain (>C18) monoene and diene acids ofLimnanthes oil are useful in synthesizing diene and tetraene wax ester intermediates for prospective lubricant additives and PVC plasticizers. Low‐temperature crystallization of theL. alba acids (61% eicosenoic, 19% docosadienoic, and 20% others) in acetone (initial concentration=0.05 g/ml) at −50 C enriches eicosenoic acid (74%) in the precipitated fraction while concentrating docosadienoic (70%) in the supernatant fraction. This simple and efficient process is well suited for large‐scale laboratory separations.
The three eras of fungal toxin research
Authors: Stoloff Leonard
Published: May 2008

The era of moldy food or feed toxicoses dates from 1711 when the role of the fungusClaviceps purpurea in the formation of the poisonous ergot grains on rye was established. Since that time numerous toxic incidents have been related to ingestion of moldy food or feed. The thrust of the research through this period was to isolate and identify the responsible mold(s). We are now well into the mycotoxin era, which dates from 1962 with the isolation and characterization of the aflatoxins. The absence of viable mold in the toxic peanut meal that sparked this era provides a suitable backdrop for the current research activity with isolated, well identified toxins of mold origin. We now have identified toxins with no obvious disease relationship. This brings us to the third era, the era of multiple challenges just getting under way. Since some of the first era toxicoses cannot be explained on the basis of the isolated toxins alone, we are beginning to realize that multiple factors may be involved.
Variability associated with testing corn for aflatoxin
Authors: Whitaker T. B. , Dickens J. W. , Monroe R. J.
Published: May 2008

The sampling, subsampling (both coarse and fine ground meal), and analytical variances associated with testing shelled corn for aflatoxin were estimated by the use of 500 g samples, 50 g subsamples, and the CB method of analysis. The magnitudes of the variance components increased with an increase in the aflatoxin concentration. Functional relationships were developed to predict the variance for a given aflatoxin concentration and any size sample, subsample, and number of analyses. At 20 ppb total aflatoxin, the coefficient of variantion associated with a 4.54 kg sample, 1 kg subsample of coarsely ground meal (passes a #14 screen), a 50 g subsample of finely ground meal (passes a #20 screen) and one analysis were 21, 8, 11, and 26%, respectively.
Minicolumn screening methods for detecting aflatoxin: State of the art
Authors: Romer T. R. , Ghouri N. , Boling T. M.
Published: May 2008

The use of small chromatographic columns (minicolumns) for the detection of aflatoxin in food or feed extracts was introduced in 1968. Since then many different analytical methods for aflatoxin which involve a minicolumn detection step have been developed. Four of these have been adopted as official Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) procedures. The advantages and disadvantages of the types of minicolumns along with a comparison of the minicolumn technique to thin layer chromatography is discussed.
Field aflatoxin contamination of corn in South Georgia
Authors: Wilson David M. , McMillian William W. , Widstrom Neil W.
Published: May 2008

The weather conditions in 1977 were generally not favorable for corn production in many of the southeastern states. A combination of stress factors, weather conditions, and insect damage was favorable for ear mold by species of theAspergillus flavusgroup.A. flavuswas the dominant fungus in preharvest corn, and this led to extensive aflatoxin contamination.
Inactivation of aflatoxins in cottonseed meal by ammoniation: I. Reaction studies
Authors: Koltun S. P. , Rayner E. T. , Wadsworth J. I. , Gardner H. K.
Published: May 2008

Cottonseed meal containing an average of 340 ppb total aflatoxins was treated with anhydrous liquid ammonia under varying conditions of time, temperature, and ammonia concentration. Meal moisture was held constant at 10%. A unique sampling device was constructed and used to withdraw meal at time intervals as frequent as 5 min during the reaction period, without interrupting the ammoniation process. The rate of aflatoxin inactivation occurring under a given set of treatment conditions was thus monitored. The data obtained in this study indicate that the inactivation of aflatoxins in cottonseed meal, as determined by chemical assay, may be successfully achieved by use of less stringent conditions of time, temperature, pressure, and moisture content than previous studies have indicated.
Decontamination of corn containing aflatoxin by treatment with ammonia
Authors: Bagley E. B.
Published: May 2008

Corn containing aflatoxin can be effectively decontaminated by treatment with gaseous ammonia at atmospheric pressure. Preliminary studies were made of the effect of ammonia level, corn moisture, temperature, and time on the aflatoxin level. Ammonia tolerance tests were carried out on laying hens as were acceptance tests by swine. Toxicity feeding trials with ducklings, broiler chicks, and trout confirmed that the process inactivates the aflatoxin. The process was then applied under farm scale conditions to produce materials for feeding trials with swine, poultry, and cattle under FDA protocols. The process can reduce aflatoxin levels from 1000 parts per billion (ppb) to within the FDA action level of 20 ppb.
Trichothecenes: Natural occurrence and potential hazard
Authors: Pathre S. V. , Mirocha C. J.
Published: May 2008

The trichothecene toxins are a chemical group of fungal metabolites characterized by a tetracyclic 12, 13‐epoxy‐trichothec‐9‐ene skeleton. There are over 40 naturally occurring derivatives produced predominantly by species ofFusarium but also produced by species ofCephalosporium, Myrothecium, Trichoderma, andStachybotrys. The trichothecene derivatives most commonly encountered in feedstuff are: T‐2 toxin, diacetoxyscirpenol (DAS), deoxynivalenol (vomitoxin) and nivalenol. Deoxynivalenol has been isolated from corn and mixed feed more frequently than the other derivatives reported, and moreover, it is frequently found together with the fungal estrogen zearalenone. Deoxynivalenol has frequently been associated with corn refused by swine, vomiting in dogs, and corn used by humans in South Africa. Deoxynivalenol is produced byFusarium roseum, an organism that is commonly found infecting corn in the field and corn stored on‐the‐cob in cribs in the Midwest. The trichothecenes have been implicated in diseases of man called alimentary toxic aleukia in the USSR and have been found in corn in the Transkei where the incidence of esophageal cancer is high. Among domestic animals, trichothecenes such as T‐2 toxin, DAS and deoxynivalenol have been implicated in diseases characterized by a hemorrhagic syndrome in cows and swine, vomiting in swine and dogs, decrease in avian egg production and body weight, refusal of feed by swine and infertility in swine. The data on the residue of the administered T‐2 toxin in domestic animals suggests that trichothecenes can be transmitted into humans.
Trichothecenes and their analysis
Authors: Eppley R. M.
Published: May 2008

The analysis of foods and feeds for the naturally occurringFusarium produced trichothecenes is reviewed. Each major step (extraction, purification and detection‐quantitation) is discussed. Although none of the extraction solvents has been thoroughly evaluated, aqueous metanol is the preferred system in most of the published procedures. The sample extracts are generally purified by liquid‐liquid partitions followed by silica gel column and/or preparative thin layer chromatography (TLC). Both thin layer and gas liquid chromatography (GLC) are used for the detection and quantitation of the trichothecenes. The detection limit for the GLC procedures has not been determined in most of the reported methods; however, T‐2 toxin, diacetoxyscirpenol, deoxynivalenol, and neosolaniol have been detected in the 25–100 ng/g range.
Synthesis and bactericidal properties of some pyridinium chlorides with alkylthiomethyl hydrophobic groups
Authors: Pernak J. , Szymanowski J. , Pujanek M. , Kucharski S. , Broniarz J.
Published: May 2008

Alkylthiomethyl chlorides were synthesized via the reaction of thioalcohols with paraformaldehyde and hydrogen chloride. The optimum reaction parameters were determined. Alkylthiomethylpyridinium chlorides were synthesized via the reaction of ocytlthiomethyl or dodecylthiomethyl chlorides with pyridine and its methyl derivatives. The surface active properties and its methyl derivatives. The surface active properties and minimum inhibitory concentrations (M.I.C.) toward various strains of microorganisms were determined for the compounds synthesized. It was found that they exhibit better bactericidal activity than commercial cetylpyridinium and cetyl‐trimethylammonium bromides.
Fatty acid composition of oil in snow crab (Chionoecetes opilio) by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry
Authors: Miyagawa M. , Miwa T. K. , Spencer G. F.
Published: May 2008

The hepatopancreatic fatty acid extract of the snow crab contains a high percentage (26%) of odd‐carbon‐numbered fatty acids and a substantial quantity (29%) of methyl‐branched fatty acids, as indicated by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and gas liquid chromatography (GLC). A wide distribution in chain length of the fatty acids (C10 to C26) and in positional isomers of the linear monoenes are also indicated by GC/MS.
An HPLC method for simultaneous quantitation of individual isothiocyanates and oxazolidinethione in myrosinase digests of rapeseed meal
Authors: Maheshwari P. N. , Stanley D. W. , Gray J. I. , van de Voort F. R.
Published: May 2008

A simple, rapid and precise method for simultaneous quantitation of individual isothiocyanates and oxazolidinethione inmyrosinase digests of rapeseed meal has been developed. The method consists of inactivation of native myrosinase activity present in the seedmeal, followed by digestion with mustard myrosinase (thioglucoside glucohydrolase, EC 3.2.3.1) to hydrolyze rapeseed glucosinolates quantitatively to isothiocyanates and oxazolidinethione. These hydrolytic products are extracted in methylene chloride as soon as they are formed and finally resolved by a reverse phase high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique on a μ Bondapak C18 column using aqueous acetonitrile as solvent and an ultraviolet (UV) absorbance detector set at 254 nm. The lower limits of quantitation by this method in a single aliquot applied to the column were 0.2 μg for the isothiocyanates and 0.01 μg for the oxazolidinethione. Recoveries of allyl isothiocyanate, oxazolidinethione and sinigrin added toB. juncea, prior to digestion, were quantitative and averaged at 94.5, 93.0 and 91.2 percent with standard deviations of 1.5, 3.3 and 2.8 percent, respectively. The butenyl and pentenyl isothiocyanates and oxazolidinethione in Tower (B. napus) and Candle (B. campestris) rapeseeds, and allyl isothiocyanate inB. juncea were the major hydrolytic products of glucosinolates. The identity of peaks corresponding to these compounds on a HPLC chromatogram was confirmed by mass spectroscopy.
New crop developments for industrial oils
Authors: Princen L. H.
Published: May 2008

Traditional industrial fats and oils are derived from inedible tallow or lard, fish and whale oil, and a small group of plant oils, including linseed, soybean, castor, tung, tall, and rapeseed oil. A group of new crops and prospective new crops is available to be utilized advantageously for the production of renewable industrial resources. Some of these plants have been studied extensively from germplasm variation through crop production and processing to evaluation of the final oil and meal products. Others are not developed that far yet. Case histories onCramble, Limnanthes, Lunaria (long chain acids),Lesquerella (hydroxy acids),Stokesia andVernonia (epoxy acids),Calendula (conjugated unsaturation),Cuphea (short chain acids), jojoba (liquid wax esters), andFoeniculum (petroselenic acid) indicate that many obstacles must be overcome to arrive at success.
Fats and oils as chemical intermediates: Present and future uses
Authors: Pryde E. H.
Published: May 2008

Currently, fats and oils possess about 40% of the paint binder, 50% of the surfactant, and 15% of the plasticizer markets. Other markets considered here, with estimated fats and oils percent share of these markets in parentheses, are: adhesives (1%), Agrichemicals (10%), engineering thermoplastics (2%) and synthetic lubricants (20%). With the expected growth for these markets and with fats and oils retaining the same percent share, an additional 3000 million pounds of fats and oils would be needed in 1990. In the likely event that the fats and oils share is accelerated, an additional 7500 million pounds would be required. These requirements could be met by an additional 10 or 25 million acres of soybean production, respectively, which can be easily attained by U.S. agriculture or by diversion of other crops or animal fats from edible use or export.
Rapid method for determination of wax in sunflowerseed oils
Authors: Brimberg U. I. , Wretensjö I. C.
Published: May 2008

A rapid estimate of wax content in sunflower seed oil may be obtained by heating the oil to 130 C and subsequent cooling in ice for 10 to 15 min. Microcrystalline waxes are then formed. They are quantified by measuring increased turbidity with a sensitive turbidity meter. Calibration is made with thoroughly dewaxed oil to which known amounts of wax are added, and the turbidity increase is determined after 10 minutes at 0 C. The method has been compared with modified cold test, comprising visual inspection after 24 hours at 0 C and after 5 days at 20 C. The rapid tubidimetric method is superior to cold test in predicting the tendency of oils to precipitate small amounts of wax after long‐time storage.
Analysis of traces of anionic detergents in oils and fats
Authors: Rek J. H. M. , Appel A. C. M.
Published: May 2008

A method to analyze oils and fats for anionic detergents, mainly sodium lauryl sulphate (NaLS), has been developed. After extracting the detergent from the oil, a chloroform‐soluble complex with methylene blue is formed, and the concentration of this complex is determined spectrophotometrically. The method was found suitable for oils and fats containing 0.05 to 5.0 mg NaLS per kg. The analysis can only be used to assess fully refined oils and fats because partly refined and commercially available products may contain minor components and emulsifiers also solubilizing methylene blue into chloroform.
HPLC of triglycerides
Authors: Herslöf B. , Podlaha O. , Töregård B.
Published: May 2008

Triglyceride separation was investigated on a reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) column using two different solvent systems. Complete separation of model compounds differing by two methylene groups was achieved. Partial or complete separation was also observed in critical pairs; for example, the different types of triglycerides consisting of palmitic and oleic acids. This observation was confirmed on natural oils (coconut oil, palm kernel oil).
2‐Ethoxyalkanoic acid: A co‐product during synthesis of long chain α,β‐unsaturated acid
Authors: Ahmad M. S. , Ahmad M. U. , Osman S. M.
Published: May 2008

A co‐product occurring during synthesis of long chain α,β‐unsaturated acid by dehydrohalogenation of α‐halogenated acid by alcoholic alkali, previously unidentified, has been characterized as 2‐ethoxy‐alkanoic acid. Its structure has been established by combustion data as well as by spectral methods.
Laparoscopic Intraluminal Surgery for Gastrointestinal Malignancies
Authors: Franklin Morris E. , Portillo Guillermo , Treviño Jorge M. , Gonzalez John J. , Glass Jeffrey L.
Published: May 2008

Introduction

Intraluminal surgery began with the advent of endoscopy. Endoscopic endoluminal surgery has limitations; and its failure results in conventional open or laparoscopic interventions with increased morbidity. Laparoscopy‐assisted intraluminal surgery is a novel alternative to open or laparoscopic surgery for a failed endoscopic endoluminal technique, minimizing the associated complications. Endoscopic resection of early gastric and duodenal cancers is restricted by the limited view of the endoscope, insufficient number of instrument channels, and inability to have adequate margins of resection without risking perforation. These cancers potentially can be treated by laparoscopy‐assisted intraluminal surgery without resorting to major gastric or duodenal resection. This procedure is relatively easy to perform and oncologically effective. We present the experience of the Texas Endosurgery Institute (TEI) in treating early gastric and duodenal cancers, including large malignant polyps and carcinoid tumors, with laparoscopy‐assisted endoluminal surgery.

Materials and methods

The data for all patients with early gastric and duodenal cancers who underwent laparoscopy‐assisted endoluminal surgery at TEI between 1996 and 2007 were prospectively recorded. All of the patients had been referred by the endoscopist as noncandidates for endoscopic resection. We prospectively collected data on preoperative diagnosis, operating time, estimated blood loss, postoperative complications, histopathology, and recurrence rate. All patients underwent endoluminal port placement under direct visualization after a pneumoperitoneum was established. Operations were performed in conjunction with upper endoscopy for assistance with port placement under endoluminal visualization, insufflation, and specimen retrieval. After the intraluminal portion of the operation was completed, the endoluminal port sites were closed with laparoscopic intracorporeal suturing.

Results

From 1996 to 2007, a total of 12 patients underwent laparoscopic endoluminal surgery. All cases were completed successfully, including 5 resections of early gastric cancer (stage I), 3 wedge resections of carcinoid tumor, 2 resections of duodenal adenocarcinoma, and 2 resections of a malignant polyp at the gastroesophagic junction; all the cases were completed with disease‐free margins. No recurrence of the original pathology have been reported, and the complications were minimal.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic intraluminal surgery for early gastric and duodenal cancer is a feasible alternative to open conventional therapies; and it is associated with a lower incidence of incisional hernia formation and a lower infection rate.
Annoyances, Disruptions, and Interruptions in Surgery: The Disruptions in Surgery Index (DiSI)
Authors: Sevdalis Nick , Forrest Damien , Undre Shabnam , Darzi Ara , Vincent Charles
Published: May 2008

Background

Recent studies have investigated disruptions to surgical process via observation. We developed the Disruptions in Surgery Index (DiSI) to assess operating room professionals’ self‐perceptions of disruptions that affect surgical processes.

Materials

The DiSI assesses individual issues, operating room environment, communication, coordination/situational awareness, patient‐related disruptions, team cohesion, and organizational issues. Sixteen surgeons, 26 nurses, and 20 anesthetists/operating departmental practitioners participated. Participants judged for themselves and for their colleagues how often each disruption occurs, its contribution to error, and obstruction of surgical goals.

Results

We combined the team cohesion and organizational disruptions to improve reliability. All participants judged that individual issues, operating room environment, and communication issues affect others more often and more severely than one’s self. Surgeons reported significantly fewer disruptions than nurses or anesthetists.

Conclusion

Although operating room professionals acknowledged disruptions and their impact, they attributed disruptions related to individual performance and attitudes more to their colleagues than to themselves. The cross‐professional discrepancy in perceived disruptions (surgeons perceiving fewer than the other two groups) suggests that attempts to improve the surgical environment should always start with thorough assessment of the views of all its users. DiSI is useful in that it differentiates between the frequency and the severity of disruptions. Further research should explore correlations of DiSI‐assessed perceptions and other observable measures.
Determination of Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) for Early Maturation in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Haidle Lisa , Janssen Jennifer E. , Gharbi Karim , Moghadam Hooman K. , Ferguson Moira M. , Danzmann Roy G.
Published: May 2008

To identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) influencing early maturation (EM) in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), a genome scan was performed using 100 microsatellite loci across 29 linkage groups. Six inter-strain paternal half-sib families using three inter-strain F1 brothers (approximately 50 progeny in each family) derived from two strains that differ in the propensity for EM were used in the study. Alleles derived from both parental sources were observed to contribute to the expression of EM in the progeny of the brothers. Four genome-wide significant QTL regions (i.e., RT-8, -17, -24, and -30) were observed. EM QTL detected on RT-8 and -24 demonstrated significant and suggestive QTL effects in both male and female progeny. Furthermore, within both male and female full-sib groupings, QTL on RT-8 and -24 were detected in two or more of the five parents used. Significant genome-wide and several strong chromosome-wide QTL for EM localized to different regions in males and females, suggesting some sex-specific control. Namely, QTL detected on RT-13, -15, -21, and -30 were associated with EM only in females, and those on RT-3, -17, and -19 were associated with EM only in males. Within the QTL regions identified, a comparison of syntenic EST markers from the rainbow trout linkage map with the zebrafish (Danio rerio) genome identified several putative candidate genes that may influence EM.
Changing trends in intracranial abscesses secondary to ear and sinus disease
Authors: Tandon S , Beasley N , Swift A C
Published: May 2008

Objectives:

To review the management, causative organisms, morbidity and mortality of intracranial abscesses secondary to sinus and ear disease.

Study design and setting:

Retrospective, case note review of suppurative intracranial complications of ear and sinus disease in patients admitted to a regional neurosurgical centre between 1980 and 2004. These data were compared with published material from the same region from 1950–1979.

Results:

There was a marked reduction in the mortality rate and the number of intracranial abscesses secondary to chronic ear disease, comparing the two time periods. However, there was little change in the percentage of sinus-related abscesses treated and in their symptoms, signs, abscess location and long term morbidity. Microbiology results showed that streptococcal species predominated as causative organisms, with a high percentage of anaerobic bacteria in otogenic abscesses.

Conclusion:

Despite improved outcomes, a high index of suspicion for intracranial complications of ear or sinus disease should be maintained in the presence of appropriate signs and symptoms.
Honey as topical prophylaxis against radiochemotherapy-induced mucositis in head and neck cancer
Authors: Rashad U M , Al-Gezawy S M , El-Gezawy E , Azzaz A N
Published: May 2008

Aim:

To evaluate the efficacy of pure natural honey as prophylaxis against radiochemotherapy-induced mucositis, through clinical scoring of oral and oropharyngeal mucositis, and culturing of pathogenic oral and oropharyngeal microbes.

Patients and methods:

The study was done in Assiut University Hospital, Egypt, between January 2005 and July 2006. Forty patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer were entered into the trial. Enrolled patients were randomised to either the treatment group, receiving concomitant chemotherapy and radiotherapy (with a significant area of directly visible oral and/or oropharyngeal mucosa included in the radiation fields) plus prior topical application of pure natural honey, or the control group, receiving concomitant chemotherapy and radiotherapy without honey. Patients were evaluated clinically every week to assess development of radiation mucositis. Aerobic cultures and candida colonisation assessment were undertaken, via oral and oropharyngeal swabs, prior to and at the completion of irradiation, and when infection was evident.

Results:

In the treatment group, no patients developed grade four mucositis and only three patients (15 per cent) developed grade three mucositis. In the control group, 13 patients (65 per cent) developed grade three or four mucositis (p < 0.05). Candida colonisation was found in 15 per cent of the treatment group and 60 per cent of the control group, either during or after radiotherapy (p = 0.003). Positive cultures for aerobic pathogenic bacteria were observed in 15 per cent of the treatment group and 65 per cent of the control group, during or after radiotherapy (p = 0.007).

Conclusion:

This study shows that prophylactic use of pure natural honey was effective in reducing mucositis resulting from radiochemotherapy in patients with head and neck cancer.
ENT cases seen at a local ‘walk-in centre’: a one year review
Authors: Rourke T , Tassone P , Philpott C , Bath A
Published: May 2008

Aim and method:

This retrospective study reviewed the ENT-related cases seen, and the discharge or transfer outcomes, at both a local ‘walk-in centre’ and the respective emergency department, over one year in Norwich.

Results:

Of the 7657 ENT cases seen at the walk-in centre, the commonest conditions included tonsillitis or pharyngitis, otalgia, cough, and deafness. In comparison, 1586 patients were seen at the emergency department, and the commonest conditions were epistaxis and throat foreign bodies. Of the ENT cases seen at the walk-in centre, 85.4 per cent were treated and discharged. Of the 14.6 per cent referred to other healthcare providers, 11.1 per cent were to the general practitioner. In comparison, the emergency department discharged 41.2 per cent and referred 58.8 per cent to other healthcare providers.

Conclusion:

This study indicates that ENT cases may constitute a large proportion of patients seen in walk-in centres, and that the case types seen may differ from those presenting to emergency departments. It also indicates that walk-in centres may potentially be assessing, treating and discharging 85.4 per cent of ENT patients seen.
Total laryngopharyngoesophagectomy with gastric transposition reconstruction: review of long-term swallowing outcomes
Authors: Kelly A M , Drinnan M J , Savy L , Howard D J
Published: May 2008

Aim:

The aim of this review was to examine long-term swallowing and eating outcomes following laryngopharyngoesophagectomy with gastric pull-up reconstruction.

Methods:

Ten patients underwent clinical examination and completed the performance status scale for head and neck questionnaire and also a gastric pull-up swallowing questionnaire designed for this review. Nine of the 10 patients underwent videofluoroscopic examination of swallowing.

Results:

One patient had a stricture at the orogastric anastomosis, and one patient had bilateral tongue immobility secondary to XIIth nerve palsies. Eight participants reported eating a normal diet, and five reported not limiting their eating environment. Regurgitation, slower eating and reduced capacity were the most common functional limitations.

Conclusions:

These results support previous opinions that the gastric pull-up procedure has good swallowing outcomes, and indicate that such outcomes continue in the long term.
Cartilage ‘shoe’: a new technique for stabilisation of titanium total ossicular replacement prosthesis at centre of stapes footplate
Authors: Beutner D , Luers J C , Huttenbrink K B
Published: May 2008

Objectives:

After tympanoplasty using a total ossicular replacement prosthesis, many unsatisfactory hearing results are due to dislocation of the prosthesis.

Material and methods:

We developed a cartilage guide for stabilising the total ossicular replacement prosthesis in the oval window niche. An oval-shaped piece of cartilage measuring 2.5 × 3.5 mm with a central hole was precisely punched out of a thin cartilage plate. The cartilage was placed in the oval niche, and its hole centred the prosthesis on the stapes footplate.

Results:

Hearing results in 52 patients confirmed acoustically the effectiveness of this method of total ossicular replacement prosthesis stabilisation on the stapes footplate. Subsequent ‘second-look’ surgery revealed stable ingrowth of the cartilage ‘shoe’ into the oval niche.

Conclusion:

Such a cartilage shoe might address one of the causes of unsatisfactory hearing following ossicular chain reconstruction with a total ossicular replacement prosthesis.
Evaluation of surgeons' marking of excision margins for superficial facial skin cancer lesions
Authors: Ghosh S , Duvvi S , Goodyear P , Reddy E , Kumar A
Published: May 2008

Introduction:

We established a series of exercises that evaluated surgeons' marking of excision margins, and we sought to identify factors influencing such marking.

Methods:

Twenty-four participants were asked to draw preset margins (3, 4, 5, 8 or 10 mm) on a series of life-size images representing noncosmetically and cosmetically sensitive facial sites, and also to draw circles of set diameters (3, 5 and 8 mm) on white paper. Margins were measured with vernier callipers calibrated to 0.05 mm.

Results:

In the small margin (3 mm) and noncosmetically sensitive exercises, the mean margins drawn were greater than required. When a 10 mm margin was required in cosmetically sensitive areas and nonsensitive areas, the margin was consistently underestimated in the former group by all participants (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Surgeons marking facial lesions for excision should use a measurement of scale, in order to eliminate the inherent tendency to underestimate the margin required for large excisions and for cosmetically sensitive areas.
Expansile properties of otowicks: an in vitro study
Authors: Clamp P J
Published: May 2008

Objective:

To determine the expansile and absorptive properties of the expandable ear wick when tested with commonly prescribed ear drop preparations.

Design:

This in vitro study assessed wick expansion and absorption of drops when different ear drop preparations were applied. Nine commonly used ear drop preparations were tested (Gentisone HC, Sofradex, Otomize, Betnesol, Exocin, Canesten, Locorten-Vioform, EarCalm and ichthammol glycerin) with a standard expandable ear wick.

Main outcome measures:

Weight, length and width of otowick following exposure to ear drops.

Results:

There was a marked difference in the absorption and expansion of the otowick when different drops were used. This corresponded to the aqueous or oil base of each preparation. All aqueous ear drop preparations (i.e. Gentisone HC, Sofradex, Otomize, Betnesol, Exocin and EarCalm) produced similar rates of absorption into, and expansion of, the otowick. The oil-based ear drop preparations (i.e. Canesten, Locorten-Vioform and ichthammol glycerin) failed to expand the wick and showed poor rates of absorption into the wick.

Conclusion:

Expandable ear wicks should only be used in conjunction with aqueous ear drops. When using expandable otowicks as an adjunct to treating fungal otitis externa, acetic acid ear drops should be prescribed, as all other anti-fungal drops are oil-based.
Assessing the heritability of anorexia nervosa symptoms using a marginal maximal likelihood approach
Authors: Mazzeo S. E. , Mitchell K. S. , Bulik C. M. , Reichborn-Kjennerud T. , Kendler K. S. , Neale M. C.
Published: May 2008

Background

Assessment of eating disorders at the symptom level can facilitate the refinement of phenotypes. We examined genetic and environmental contributions to liability to anorexia nervosa (AN) symptoms in a population-based twin sample using a genetic common pathway model.

Method

Participants were from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health Twin Panel (NIPHTP) and included all female monozygotic (MZ; 448 complete pairs and four singletons) and dizygotic (DZ; 263 complete pairs and four singletons) twins who completed the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) assessing DSM-IV Axis I and ICD-10 criteria. Responses to items assessing AN symptoms were included in a model fitted using the marginal maximum likelihood (MML) approach.

Results

Heritability of the overall AN diagnosis was moderate [a2=0.22, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.0–0.50] whereas heritabilities of the specific items varied. Heritability estimates for weight loss items were moderate (a2=0.31–0.34) and items assessing weight concern when at a low weight were smaller (0.18–0.29). Additive genetic factors contributed little to the variance of amenorrhea, which was most strongly influenced by unshared environment (a2=0.16, e2=0.71).

Conclusions

AN symptoms are differentially heritable. Specific criteria such as those related to body weight and weight loss history represent more biologically driven potential endophenotypes or liability indices. The results regarding weight concern differ somewhat from those of previous studies, highlighting the importance of assessing genetic and environmental influences on variance of traits within specific subgroups of interest.
A taxometric analysis of health anxiety
Authors: Ferguson E.
Published: May 2008

Background

A long-standing issue in the health anxiety literature is the extent to which health anxiety is a dimensional or a categorical construct. This study explores this question directly using taxometric procedures.

Method

Seven hundred and eleven working adults completed an index of health anxiety [the Whiteley Index (WI)] and indicated their current health status. Data from those who were currently healthy (n=501) and receiving no medical treatment were examined using three taxometric procedures: mean above minus below a cut (MAMBAC), maximum eigenvalue (MAXEIGEN) and L-mode factor analysis (L-MODE).

Results

Graphical representations (comparing actual to simulated data) and fit indices indicate that health anxiety is more accurately represented as a dimensional rather than a categorical construct.

Conclusions

Health anxiety is better represented as a dimensional construct. Implications for theory development and clinical practice are examined.
An exploratory study of the neural mechanisms of decision making in compulsive hoarding
Authors: Tolin D. F. , Kiehl K. A. , Worhunsky P. , Book G. A. , Maltby N.
Published: May 2008

Background

Prior studies have suggested unique patterns of neural activity associated with compulsive hoarding. However, to date no studies have examined the process of making actual decisions about whether to keep or discard possessions in patients with hoarding symptoms. An increasing body of clinical data and experimental psychopathology research suggests that hoarding is associated with impaired decision making; therefore, it is important to understand the neural underpinnings of decision-making abnormalities in hoarding patients.

Method

Twelve adult patients diagnosed with compulsive hoarding, 17% of whom also met criteria for obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), and 12 matched healthy controls underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) while making decisions about whether or not to discard personal paper items (e.g. junk mail) brought to the laboratory as well as control items that did not belong to them. Items were either saved or destroyed following each decision.

Results

When deciding about whether to keep or discard personal possessions, compulsive hoarding participants displayed excessive hemodynamic activity in lateral orbitofrontal cortex and parahippocampal gyrus. Among hoarding participants, decisions to keep personal possessions were associated with greater activity in superior temporal gyrus, middle temporal gyrus, medial frontal gyrus, anterior cingulate cortex, precentral gyrus, and cerebellum than were decisions to discard personal possessions.

Conclusions

These results provide partial support for an emerging model of compulsive hoarding based on complications of the decision-making process. They also suggest that compulsive hoarding may be characterized by focal deficits in the processing of reward and changes in reward contingencies, particularly when these are perceived to be punishing.
Improvement of psychic and somatic symptoms in adult patients with generalized anxiety disorder: examination from a duloxetine, venlafaxine extended-release and placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Nicolini H. , Bakish D. , Duenas H. , Spann M. , Erickson J. , Hallberg C. , Ball S. , Sagman D. , Russell J. M.
Published: May 2008

Background

This study examined the efficacy and tolerability of duloxetine and venlafaxine extended-release (XR) treatment for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), with a secondary focus on psychic and somatic symptoms within GAD.

Method

The design was a 10-week, multi-center, double-blind placebo-controlled study of duloxetine (20 mg or 60–120 mg once daily) and venlafaxine XR (75–225 mg once daily) treatment. Efficacy was measured using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA), which includes psychic and somatic factor scores. Tolerability was measured by occurrence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and discontinuation rates.

Results

Adult out-patients (mean age 42.8 years; 57.1% women) with DSM-IV-defined GAD were randomly assigned to placebo (n=170), duloxetine 20 mg (n=84), duloxetine 60–120 mg (n=158) or venlafaxine XR 75–225 mg (n=169) treatment. Each of the three active treatment groups had significantly greater improvements on HAMA total score from baseline to endpoint compared with placebo (p=0.01–0.001). For the HAMA psychic factor score, both duloxetine treatment arms and venlafaxine XR demonstrated significantly greater improvement compared with placebo (p=0.01–0.001). For the HAMA somatic factor score, the mean improvement in the duloxetine 60–120 mg and venlafaxine XR groups was significantly greater than placebo (p⩽0.05 and p⩽0.01 respectively), whose mean improvement did not differ from the duloxetine 20 mg group (p=0.07). Groups did not differ in study discontinuation rate due to adverse events.

Conclusions

Duloxetine and venlafaxine treatment were each efficacious for improvement of core psychic anxiety symptoms and associated somatic symptoms for adults with GAD.
Age patterns in the prevalence of DSM-IV depressive/anxiety disorders with and without physical co-morbidity
Authors: Scott K. M. , Von Korff M. , Alonso J. , Angermeyer M. , Bromet E. J. , Bruffaerts R. , de Girolamo G. , de Graaf R. , Fernandez A. , Gureje O. , He Y. , Kessler R. C. , Kovess V. , Levinson D. , Medina-Mora M. E. , Mneimneh Z. , Oakley Browne M. A. , Posada-Villa J. , Tachimori H. , Williams D.
Published: May 2008

Background

Physical morbidity is a potent risk factor for depression onset and clearly increases with age, yet prior research has often found depressive disorders to decrease with age. This study tests the possibility that the relationship between age and mental disorders differs as a function of physical co-morbidity.

Method

Eighteen general population surveys were carried out among household-residing adults as part of the World Mental Health (WMH) surveys initiative (n=42 697). DSM-IV disorders were assessed using face-to-face interviews with the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI 3.0). The effect of age was estimated for 12-month depressive and/or anxiety disorders with and without physical or pain co-morbidity, and for physical and/or pain conditions without mental co-morbidity.

Results

Depressive and anxiety disorders decreased with age, a result that cannot be explained by organic exclusion criteria. No significant difference was found in the relationship between mental disorders and age as a function of physical/pain co-morbidity. The majority of older persons have chronic physical or pain conditions without co-morbid mental disorders; by contrast, the majority of those with mental disorders have physical/pain co-morbidity, particularly among the older age groups.

Conclusions

CIDI-diagnosed depressive and anxiety disorders in the general population decrease with age, despite greatly increasing physical morbidity with age. Physical morbidity among persons with mental disorder is the norm, particularly in older populations. Health professionals, including mental health professionals, need to address barriers to the management of physical co-morbidity among those with mental disorders.
Cannabis use and genetic predisposition for schizophrenia: a case-control study
Authors: Veling W. , Mackenbach J. P. , van Os J. , Hoek H. W.
Published: May 2008

Background

Cannabis use may be a risk factor for schizophrenia. Part of this association may be explained by genotype–environment interaction, and part of it by genotype–environment correlation. The latter issue has not been explored. We investigated whether cannabis use is associated with schizophrenia, and whether gene–environment correlation contributes to this association, by examining the prevalence of cannabis use in groups with different levels of genetic predisposition for schizophrenia.

Method

Case-control study of first-episode schizophrenia. Cases included all non-Western immigrants who made first contact with a physician for schizophrenia in The Hague, The Netherlands, between October 2000 and July 2005 (n=100; highest genetic predisposition). Two matched control groups were recruited, one among siblings of the cases (n=63; intermediate genetic predisposition) and one among immigrants who made contact with non-psychiatric secondary health-care services (n=100; lowest genetic predisposition). Conditional logistic regression analyses were used to predict schizophrenia as a function of cannabis use, and cannabis use as a function of genetic predisposition for schizophrenia.

Results

Cases had used cannabis significantly more often than their siblings and general hospital controls (59, 21 and 21% respectively). Cannabis use predicted schizophrenia [adjusted odds ratio (OR) cases compared to general hospital controls 7.8, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.7–22.6; adjusted OR cases compared to siblings 15.9 (95% CI 1.5–167.1)], but genetic predisposition for schizophrenia did not predict cannabis use [adjusted OR intermediate predisposition compared to lowest predisposition 1.2 (95% CI 0.4–3.8)].

Conclusions

Cannabis use was associated with schizophrenia but there was no evidence for genotype–environment correlation.