bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability analysis for drugs with multiple active ingredients
Authors: Chow Shein‐Chung , Shao Jun
Published: September 2006

For every drug product on the market, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that an expiration dating period (shelf‐life) must be indicated on the immediate container label. For determination of the expiration dating period of a drug product, regulatory requirements and statistical methodology are provided in the FDA and ICH Guidelines. However, this guideline is developed for drug products with a single active ingredient. There are many drug products consisting of multiple active ingredients, especially for most traditional Chinese medicine. In this article, we propose a statistical method for determining the shelf‐life of a drug product with multiple active ingredients following similar idea as suggested by the FDA and assuming that these active ingredients are linear combinations of some factors. Stability data observed from a traditional Chinese medicine were analysed to illustrate the proposed method. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surgical Outcomes for Gastric Cancer in the Upper Third of the Stomach
Authors: Kim Jong Han , Park Sung Soo , Kim Jin , Boo Yoon Jung , Kim Seung Joo , Mok Young Jae , Kim Chong Suk
Published: September 2006

Introduction

The proportion of gastric cancers affecting the upper third of the stomach has been increasing. At our surgical service we perform total and proximal gastrectomy for this condition. The purpose of this study was to investigate the surgical outcome of the two operative procedures and determine an optimal surgical approach.

Methods

Data from 147 patients who underwent resection for gastric cancer affecting the proximal one‐third of the stomach were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were classified into a total gastrectomy (TG) group or a proximal gastrectomy (PG) group, and the clinicopathologic characteristics and surgical results were compared. We analyzed survival rates using Kaplan‐Meier methods and made comparisons using a log‐rank test across the same stage of the gastric cancer.

Results

From 1992 to 2000, a total of 104 total gastrectomies and 43 proximal gastrectomies for gastric cancer affecting the upper one‐third of the stomach were performed. Our investigation revealed significantly different clinicopathologic characteristics in Borrmann type, length of the resection margin, degree of lymph node dissection, and lymph node stage. During the procedure, a combined resection of other organs was performed in 30 TG and 27 PG patients. Postoperative complications developed in 15 TG and 22 PG patients. The cancer recurrence rate was 4.8% for the TG group and 39.5% for the PG group; it was highest when the length of the proximal resection margin was < 1 cm. When we compared 5‐year survival rates between the two groups, each at the same cancer stage, a significant difference was noted for stage III and IV gastric cancers.

Conclusions

Proximal gastrectomy may be performed during the early stage of proximal gastric cancer; but because of the high frequency of complications and cancer recurrence, an additional procedure should be expected afterward. When the cancer stage is advanced, total gastrectomy should be performed with sufficient length of the proximal resection margin.
Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection of the Thigh: Consider an Abdominal Cause
Authors: Nijhof H. W. , Steenvoorde P. , Bonsing B. A. , Hartgrink H. H.
Published: September 2006

Background

Necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI) is a disastrous infection of the subcutaneous tissue and underlying fascial layers. Even if urgent treatment is started, mortality rates are high. Due to the paucity of specific cutaneous signs, early recognition is extremely difficult. This in turn causes a delay in diagnosis and worsens prognosis. Although NSTI can develop after a wide variety of causes, specific clues such as initial gram staining and a high index of suspicion should alert the clinician to an abdominal causative agent, which alters surgical treatment strategy. If detected early, prognosis for the patient is improved.

Methods

Four patients with NSTI of the thigh due to an abdominal origin are detailed regarding their clinical presentation, gram stain or culture, abdominal focus, and treatment. Based on our clinical experience and a review of the relevant literature, we address clinical challenges and controversies of importance.

Results

Current literature on NSTI recommends prompt surgical debridement and broad‐spectrum antibiotic therapy. Our cases revealed that an abdominal focus is not uncommon; however, it can be easily missed, which delays treatment. All cases demonstrated polymicrobial gram stains and cultures, which can raise suspicion of and lead to determination of an abdominal focus.

Conclusions

High clinical suspicion or a polymicrobial gram stain or culture should quickly lead to determination of an abdominal source. Early surgical exploration and focus treatment, together with prompt surgical debridement and broad‐spectrum antibiotic therapy, could reduce mortality significantly.
Postoperative Complications in Obese and Nonobese Patients
Authors: Bamgbade Olumuyiwa A. , Rutter Timothy W. , Nafiu Olubukola O. , Dorje Pema
Published: September 2006

Background

Postoperative complications are undesirable and potentially common in the increasing obese population of surgical patients. There is a scarcity of recent and reliable studies comparing postoperative morbidity and mortality in obese and nonobese patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence, pattern, and severity of postoperative complications in obese and nonobese surgical patients.

Methods

A retrospective review and analysis of adult postoperative complications recorded on an electronic database was conducted. The database covered a period of 4 years and consisted of 7,271 cases of postoperative complications that occurred within 30 days of noncardiac moderate or major surgery. Appropriate data and variables were compared between obese and nonobese patients using the SPSS program.

Results

The rate of postoperative complications was 7.7%. Obese patients had a higher prevalence of myocardial infarction (P = 0.001), peripheral nerve injury (P = 0.039), wound infection (P = 0.001), and urinary tract infection (P = 0.004). ). Morbidly obese patients had a higher mortality rate of 2.2% compared with 1.2%; for all other patients (P = 0.034) and a higher prevalence of tracheal reintubation (P = 0.009) and cardiac arrest (P = 0.015). Obese patients had higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status scores than other patients (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Obese patients have a significantly higher risk of postoperative myocardial infarction, wound infection, nerve injury, and urinary infection. Obesity is an independent risk factor for perioperative morbidity, and morbid obesity is a risk factor for mortality.
Anterior and Posterior Interosseous Neurectomy for the Treatment of Chronic Dynamic Instability of the Wrist
Authors: Hofmeister Eric P. , Moran Steven L. , Shin Alexander Y.
Published: September 2006

The purpose of this study was to determine the results of combined anterior and posterior interosseous neurectomy (AIN/PIN) in patients with chronic wrist pain secondary to dynamic instability, and to determine the predictability of selective AIN/PIN blocks with respect to pain relief, grip strength, and outcome of the neurectomy. A prospectively accrued chronic wrist pain registry was undertaken. Inclusion criteria were patients with arthroscopically confirmed dynamic wrist instability who had undergone a diagnostic AIN/PIN injection, followed by a single dorsal incision neurectomy. All patients completed Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand outcome questionnaires preoperatively and at intervals postoperatively. Pre- and postoperative range of motion, grip strength, and percentage pain relief were recorded. Over a 3-year period, 50 wrists (48 patients) were enrolled: average follow-up was 28 months (range: 24–42 months). The average improvement in grip strength after denervation was 16% ( p = 0.076), the average improvement in subjective pain rating was 51% ( p < 0.0001), and the average improvement in Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores was 15 points ( p = 0.0039). Improvement of pain from diagnostic injections was not predictive of final improvement of pain; however, improvement in grip strength after diagnostic injections did correlate with improved grip strength after surgery. Lack of improvement in subjective pain rating or grip strength after diagnostic injection approached statistical significance. There was no decrease in range of motion postoperatively. Fourteen patients (16 wrists) failed as defined by need for subsequent surgery. The results of AIN/PIN neurectomy demonstrate that it may be an effective alternative to wrist salvage or reconstructive procedures within the first few years of follow-up.
Methylated polyphenols are poor “chemical” antioxidants but can still effectively protect cells from hydrogen peroxide‐induced cytotoxicity
Authors: Deng Dawei , Zhang Jingli , Cooney Janine M. , Skinner Margot A. , Adaim Aselle , Jensen Dwayne J. , Stevenson David E.
Published: September 2006

Several polyphenolic compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, were compared with their per‐methylated forms in both chemical and cell‐based assays for antioxidant capacity. Methylation largely eliminated “chemical” antioxidant capacity, according to ferric reducing antioxidant power and oxygen radical absorbance capacity assays. Methylation, however, only moderately reduced protection of human Jurkat cells in culture, from hydrogen peroxide‐mediated cytotoxicity, at physiologically relevant concentrations. Neither methylated nor un‐methylated compounds were detectably metabolized by the cells. It appears that the protective mechanism of polyphenolic antioxidants against high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide in human cells may be largely unrelated to chemical antioxidant capacity.
Sphingolipids in cancer: Regulation of pathogenesis and therapy
Authors: Ogretmen Besim
Published: September 2006

Sphingolipids are known to play important roles in the regulation of cell proliferation, response to chemotherapeutic agents, and/or prevention of cancer. Recently, significant progress has been made in the identification of the enzymes and their biochemical functions involved in sphingolipid metabolism. In addition, development of new techniques for the quantitative analysis of sphingolipids at their physiological levels has facilitated studies to examine distinct functions of these bioactive sphingolipids in cancer pathogenesis and therapy. This review will focus on the recent developments regarding the roles of bioactive sphingolipids in the regulation of cell growth/proliferation, and anti‐cancer therapeutics.
Diffusion of the mu opioid receptor at the surface of human neuroblastoma SH‐SY5Y cells is restricted to permeable domains
Authors: Saulière Aude , Gaibelet Gérald , Millot Claire , Mazères Serge , Lopez André , Salomé Laurence
Published: September 2006

Previous single‐molecule studies have shown a long‐term diffusion superimposed to a short‐term confinement of the human mu opioid (hMOP) receptors at the surface of heterologous cells. However, additional ensemble average measurements are required to reach a complete understanding of the undergoing process. Here, we analyse, by fluorescence recovery after photobleaching measurements, the lateral diffusion of fully functional T7‐EGFP‐hMOP receptors in neuroblastoma SH‐SY5Y cells naturally expressing a low level of the wild‐type receptor. Experiments carried out at variable observation radii demonstrate the restriction of the receptors diffusion to sub‐micrometer sized domains. Furthermore, consistently with the long‐term single‐molecule data, the domains are found permeable.
Moderate overexpression of AIB1 triggers pre‐neoplastic changes in mammary epithelium
Authors: Avivar Álvaro , García-Macias María Carmen , Ascaso Emma , Herrera Guadalupe , O'Connor José-Enrique , de Mora Jaime Font
Published: September 2006

Here we report a new model of pre‐clinical breast cancer which has been generated by overexpressing the steroid receptor coactivator AIB1 at moderate levels in breast epithelium. Transgenic female mice display mammary hyperplasia at the onset of puberty, consistent with enhanced proliferation of primary mammary epithelial cultures and augmented levels of cyclin D1 and E‐cadherin. Studies of BrdU incorporation revealed that AIB1 localizes to the nucleus during or after S phase, implicating a new role for AIB1 in cell‐cycle progression subsequent to G1. Our findings suggest that moderate overexpression of AIB1 may represent one of the pre‐neoplastic changes in breast tissue.
The budding yeast Pichia pastoris has a novel Sec23p homolog
Authors: Esaki Masatoshi , Liu Yang , Glick Benjamin S.
Published: September 2006

In Pichia pastoris, coat protein complex II (COPII) vesicles form at discrete transitional ER (tER) sites. Analyzing COPII coat proteins in this yeast will help to reveal the mechanisms of tER organization. Here, we show that like Saccharomyces cerevisiae, P. pastoris contains essential SEC23 and SEC24 genes, as well as the non‐essential SEC24 homolog LST1. In addition, P. pastoris contains a novel non‐essential SEC23 homolog that we have designated SHL23. The products of all four genes are concentrated at tER sites. Deletion of SHL23 does not disrupt tER morphology. As judged by two‐hybrid analysis, Sec23p associates with both Sec24p and Lst1p, whereas Shl23p associates selectively with Lst1p. These results suggest that P. pastoris COPII vesicles contain an Shl23p/Lst1p complex that is absent in S. cerevisiae.
Drug‐induced phospholipidosis
Authors: Anderson Nora , Borlak Jürgen
Published: September 2006

Drug‐induced phospholipidosis is characterized by intracellular accumulation of phospholipids with lamellar bodies, most likely from an impaired phospholipid metabolism of the lysosome. Organs affected by phospholipidosis exhibit inflammatory reactions and histopathological changes. Despite significant advances in the understanding of drug‐altered lipid metabolism, the relationship between impaired phospholipid metabolism and drug‐induced toxicity remains enigmatic. Here we review molecular features of inheritable lysosomal storage disorders as a molecular mimicry of drug‐induced phospholipidosis for an improved understanding of adverse drug reaction.
Molecular determinants of dihydrouridine synthase activity
Authors: Savage Dan F. , de Crécy-Lagard Valérie , Bishop Anthony C.
Published: September 2006

Dihydrouridine is one of the most abundant modified bases in tRNA. However, little is known concerning the biochemistry of dihydrouridine synthase (DUS) enzymes. To identify molecular determinants that are necessary for DUS activity, we have developed a DUS‐complementation assay in Escherichia coli. Using this assay, we have identified amino‐acid residues that are critical for the activity of YjbN, an E. coli DUS. We also show that the aq1598 gene product, a putative DUS from Aquifex aeolicus, catalyzes dihydrouridine formation, providing the first biochemical demonstration that A. aeolicus encodes an active DUS.
Comparative postnatal development of spinal, trigeminal and vagal sensory root entry zones
Authors: Toma Jeremy S. , McPhail Lowell T. , Ramer Matt S.
Published: September 2006

Somatic and visceral sensory information enters the central nervous system (CNS) via root entry zones where sensory axons span an environment consisting of Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and astrocytes and oligodendrocytes in the CNS. While the embryonic extension of these sensory axons into the CNS has been well‐characterized, little is known about the subsequent, largely postnatal development of the glial elements of the root entry zones. Here we sought to establish a comparative developmental timecourse of the glial elements in the postnatal (P0, P3, P7, P14) and adult rat of three root entry zones: the spinal nerve dorsal root entry zone, the trigeminal root entry zone, and the vagal dorsal root entry zone. We compared entry zone development based on the expression of antigens known to be expressed in astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, oligodendrocyte precursor cells, Schwann cells, radial glial fibres and the PNS extracellular matrix. These studies revealed an unexpected distribution among glial cells of several antigens. In particular, antibodies used to label mature oligodendrocytes (RIP) transiently labelled immature Schwann cell cytoplasm, and a radial glial antigen (recognized by the 3CB2 antibody) initially decreased, and then increased in postnatal astrocytes. While all three root entry zones had reached morphological and antigenic maturity by P14, the glial elements comprising the PNS–CNS interface of cranial root entry zones (the trigeminal root entry zone and the vagal dorsal root entry zone) matured earlier than those of the spinal nerve dorsal root entry zone.
Civil society, youth and societal mobilization in democratic revolutions
Authors: Kuzio Taras
Published: September 2006

Youth have played an important role in mobilizing support for democratic revolutions during elections that have facilitated regime change. In Serbia (2000), Georgia (2003) and Ukraine (2004) youth led the way in organizing democratic coalitions among hitherto warring opposition parties that the authorities had successfully divided and ruled over. In the three countries used as case studies, youth dominated civil society and election monitoring NGOs. The article outlines a five fold framework and discusses the issues that help understand the role of youth in democratic revolutions as well as those essential conditions that lead to success. Regime change only proved successful during certain time period, in our case electoral revolutions when the authorities were at their weakest. Organization of youth groups led to the creation of Otpor (Serbia), Kmara (Georgia) and Pora (Ukraine) and provided the youth movements with structure and purpose. The training of these organized youth NGOs became a third important condition for success and often was undertaken with Western technical and financial assistance. The choice of strategies to be employed during elections was an important fourth feature. In the three country case studies, discussed in this article, the response of the authorities proved to be ineffective, weak and counter-productive.
Neuroendoscopic Laser‐Assisted Ventriculostomy of the Third Ventricle
Authors: Williams Ena M. , Galbraith Janet G. , Duncan Charles C.
Published: September 2006

Hydrocephalus is caused by an imbalance between the production and absorption of cerebrospinal fluid. Ventriculostomy of the third ventricle now is an acceptable treatment alternative for this problem. This procedure reduces costs over the course of the illness because the patient does not require subsequent shunt revisions throughout his or her life. The specialized care and the fear associated with the dependency on mechanical hardware also are eliminated if shunt placement is avoided. Postoperative complications may include increased intracranial pressure, bleeding, infection, and pain. AORN J 61 (Feb 1995) 345–359.
Implementing a Baccalaureate Perioperative Nursing Elective
Authors: Long M. Charlene , George Susan E. , Gulledge H. Sue
Published: September 2006

To increase perioperative experience and knowledge, operating room staff members of a southeastern US veterans affairs hospital and the faculty of a nearby college of nursing baccalaureate program developed a perioperative nursing elective. The course included both classroom and clinical experiences. Benefits to students include the ability to transfer knowledge and skills to other clinical settings, increased understanding of the trauma of the surgical experience for the patient, and increased interest in a career in perioperative nursing. AORN J 61 (Feb 1995) 372–376.
Perioperative Nurses' Perceptions of Caring Practices
Authors: McNamara Sharon A.
Published: September 2006

This study was designed to determine how caring is practiced in perioperative nursing. The theory of nursing by M. Jean Watson, RN, PhD, FAAN, provided the conceptual framework for the study. The researcher used a qualitative, descriptive methodology to analyze data collected in audiotaped interviews with five perioperative nurses and used standard qualitative research procedures for transcribing and analyzing the interview data. The five study participants identified their perceptions of caring behaviors with conscious and unconscious patients in the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative periods. They described the essential structure of wring as the establishment of a human care relationship and provision of a supportive, protective, and/or corrective psychological, physical, and spiritual environment.A0RN J61 (Feb 1995) 377–388.
Understanding/Responding: A Communication Manual for Nurses
Authors: Gaehle Kay E.
Published: September 2006

Understanding/Responding: A Communication Manual for Nurses second ed By Lynette Long 1992, 356 pp $33.75 paperback
Healing on the Edge of Now
Authors: Stone Joan Bard
Published: September 2006

Healing on the Edge of Now By Carl Brahe 1992, 187 pp $11.95 paperback
An experimental double-blind study to evaluate the use of Euphrasia in preventing conjunctivitis
Authors: Mokkapatti Rupa
Published: September 2006

A double-blind study using Euphrasia 30c or placebo was carried out during an epidemic of viral conjunctivitis. Nine hundred and ninety-four subjects were available at follow-up, when 48 subjects in the group given Euphrasia and 43 subjects in the placebo group had signs and symptoms of conjunctivitis, a difference which was not statistically significant. The protocol by which Euphrasia was tried may be used without change to scientifically confirm the efficacy of a genus epidemicus. The concept of genus epidemicus lends itself well to experimental double-blind studies in homœopathy during epidemics.
Homœopathic veterinary prescribing
Authors: kayne Steven
Published: September 2006

An historical outline of veterinary homœopathy is given together with brief reasons for the recent increase in demand for homœopathic treatment and limiting factors preventing wider acceptance of the discipline. A pilot survey is described in which the six homœopathic medicines most frequently prescribed by homœopathic veterinarians have been identified together with their applications.
A study model with initial findings using Sepia 200c given prophylactically to prevent anoestrus problems in the dairy cow
Authors: Williamson A.V. , Crawford W.J. , Rennie B. , Mackie W.L.
Published: September 2006

Overall reproductive performance and associated periparturient disorders were monitored in a herd of British Friesian cross dairy cows from September 1987 to August 1988. Pregnancy diagnosis and cyclical status of the herd was determined by palpation of the ovaries per rectum. A total of 49 (110) cows were randomly treated with Sepia 200c either on day 14(19) or 21 days (30) postpartum.

Statistical analysis of the results was based on the differences between the control and combined Sepia-treated groups. Although there were significant differences in the proportion of heifers calving in each group, there was no significant difference in periparturient disorders or during the pre-service period.

However, in the Sepia Group that held a lower proportion of heifers, a significant difference was found in the conception rate to 1st service (47%), the percentage of cows in calf (90%) and total culling rate (10%) compared to the Control Group (26%, 72% and 28% respectively). A reduction (non significant) was found between the Sepia and Control services to conception (0.2), calving to conception interval (5 days) and calving index (2 days).

The results of this pilot study appear to demonstrate a difference in effect between the Sepia-treated Group and Control Group. The study has been extended to treat a larger number of dairy cows to examine the reproducibility of these results.
Hepatroprotective action of potentized lycopodium clavatum L.
Authors: Samajdar Kajal , Mitra Susmita , Gole M.K. , Chakrabarty B.N. , Sur R.K.
Published: September 2006

A high potency of Lycopodium clavatum Linn. (200th centesimal potency) is tested for its hepatoprotective action against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic damage in rat. It has been established from biochemical and histopathological studies that at least 4 doses of Lycopodium 200 can control the CCl4-induced alteration of plasma levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, acetylcholinesterase, lactate deyhydrogenase, bilirubin and urea. Protective action of the drug has also been confirmed by microanatomical studies on hepatic tissues.
Applicability of homœopathic Caulophyllum thalictroides during labour
Authors: Felisi E. , Sideri M. , Eid P.
Published: September 2006

A clinical study of the effect of Caulophyllum 7c in normal labour is reported. Caulophyllum was given to 22 women in their first pregnancies who had gone into labour spontaneously. 17 of them had normal spontaneous deliveries.

Caulophyllum was tolerated. Compared to 34 labours retrospectively selected by the same criteria, the duration of labour in Caulophyllum-treated women was reduced by about 90 minutes.
Homœopathic treatment of alcohol withdrawal
Authors: Trzebiatowska-Trzeciak Olga , Milewska Grazyna
Published: September 2006

The authors report their experience of the treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndrome and delirium tremens (DTs). In a series of 30 alcoholic men (5 with DTs) results appeared favourable. The main homœopathic medicine used was Sulphur.
Homœopathic treatment of burn scars—clinical enquiry
Authors: Burge Timothy S. , Watson Anthony C.H. , Taylor-Reilly David , Harrison Rachel E.
Published: September 2006

After observing the flattening in one patient's hypertrophic scar after treatment with the homœopathic medicine Graphites, we decided to look at the effect of Graphites on hypertrophic burn scars. 5 patients with scarring subsequent to burns were treated with 2 different dilutions of potentized Graphites for 3 months. Of the 4 patients who completed the treatment 3 described a subjective improvement in itch, one patient with an open wound of 5 month's duration saw this heal after the first dose of Graphites. 2 patients chose to continue Graphites 6c at the final follow-up.

All patient's scars improved both on patient and independent assessor scoring over the treatment period, but it was not possible to determine to what extent this was due to the treatment. Further study is required before undertaking a more formal trial.
Publicity generated by an International LMHI Congress
Authors: Poetters Hedwig
Published: September 2006

The International Conference of the LMHI in Koeln (Cologne), Germany in May 1991 had a considerable publicity effect.

2 million readers were reached through articles in the daily press. Several large medical and health journals and magazines informed ca. 500,000 readers. Radio stations reached several hundred thousand listeners.

In the homœopathic press, 19 journals reported the conference. They printed more than 80 items, including lectures given at the conference, reports on the conference, comments, letters to the editor, etc.

The most important dignitaries of Western Germany sent greetings.

The reasons for the conference being successful in the eyes of homœopathic physicians were as follows:

-high quality scientific and cultural programme,

-good interpreters and good quality technical equipment in the conference centre and

-location of the conference in the most densely populated area of Germany with good transport connections.
A pilot statistical study with homoeopathic potencies of arsenicum album in wheat germination as a simple model
Authors: Brizzi M. , Nani D. , Peruzzi M. , Betti L.
Published: September 2006

A blind, randomized laboratory trial to study homoeopathic potencies of Arsenicum album on wheat germination is proposed as a simple model which allows a rigorous statistical analysis. The parametric tests show that the differences between the treatment groups cannot be explained as a mere effect of intrinsic seed variability.
The use of Arsenicum album 30c to complement conventional treatment of neonatal diarrhoea (‘scours’) in calves
Authors: Rafferty A. , Kayne S.
Published: September 2006

In a pilot double blind study carried out in Scotland, the effect of supplementing a conventional treatment plan with homoeopathic Arsenicum album was studied. In the management of neonatal calf scour it appeared that more animals recovered after one day in the group that had received active medicine, than in the placebo group. These results are encouraging.
Homeoindex
Authors: Martins C.C. , Cepeda L.M.R. , Mesquita A.
Published: September 2006

HOMEOINDEX is a bibliographic database in which everything published in the field of homoeopathy is progressively filed. The methods adopted are those used by major international medical databases (MEDLINE, LILACS), allowing data exchange.

HOMEOINDEX radically changes the situation for dissemination, study, preservation and research of homoeopathic works. It takes homoeopathy out of an archaic phase when work was inaccessible and fragmented and into the modern era.

The development of this work included some unique achievements:

—Introduction of homoeopathy as recognized literature in international institutions

—Adoption of homoeopathic terms (key-words) in official latin-American medical catalogues

—Creation of a Latin American reference centre, for cataloguing and disseminating homoeopathic literature

—The introduction of homoeopathic papers to international medical databases.
Effect of homoeopathic treatment on filariasis
Authors: Mishra N. , Kumar Anil
Published: September 2006

A single blind follow-up study was undertaken to assess the effect of homeopathic treatment on microfilarial clearance and frequency of filarial fevers in an endemic village, India, State of Orissa. Homoeopathic treatment effectively reduced the frequency of filarial fevers by 20 per cent (P<0.05) among amicrofilaraemic cases, with a higher reduction in cases with genital involvement (36%) and mastitis (57%). However, among symptomatic microfilaraemia cases, the frequency of filarial fever (attack) had doubled (p<0.05) following treatment. There was no additional effect on microfilaria clearance in asymptomatic carriers.
Cardiovascular medicines
Authors: Holland Lee
Published: September 2006

A review of the main homoeopathic medicines whose centre of action includes the heart with a summary of their main characteristics. Special attention has been paid to Digitalis, Lilium tigrinum, Naja, Cactus, Spigelia, Kalmia latifolia and several others, including medicines commonly used in mother tincture form for heart failure and hypertension.
A pilot study evaluating the efficacy of homœopathy in daily practice
Authors: Smit J.A.C.M. Van Berckel
Published: September 2006

This longitudinal observational study examines the efficacy of classical homœopathic treatment in daily practice. This was done in a single practice in Amsterdam over 3 years. Satisfaction was measured relative to the previous consultation. Patients were selected on diagnostic group, age and sex. Satisfaction was determined by predefined factors. Single homœopathic medicines were given in potencies ranging from 30cK to 10MK.

3 diagnostic groups scored a statistically highly significant success compared to the predefined 40% success rate. Treatment satisfaction was higher in children than adults. The method gives the physician and colleagues insight into the incidence, indications and results of homœopathic prescribing in daily practice. Validity can be improved by including a greater number of practices and by extended statistical processing of the data.
Homœopathy in tropical medicine and a few thoughts on the synthesis of methods of medical practice
Authors: Becker Carl K.
Published: September 2006

There do exist cases in which the results of treatments varying from that of the Specialist in America or Europe to that of the Witch-Doctor in Central Africa bring results surprisingly similar.

A formula is suggested to represent the inter-relation of our present concepts of disease and recovery. This formula is R⇄I/V=H. It is of wide if not universal applicability. It is a splendid tool which enables us to determine quickly and practically which methods of treatment to apply at what times or under what circumstances.

All methods of treatment of known efficacy appear to fall clearly within the scope of this formula. We may term this a formula of the natural method, used by the body to meet and overcome disease. Treatment of any one of the three factors in the formula may therefore be termed a natural method of treatment.

A general practitioner can and must (1) not confine himself to one method of treatment in disease. (2) With all mental honesty, and to the best of his ability choose that form of treatment or combination of treatments, best calculated in each case to bring about the most complete recovery in the shortest possible time.

In addition to taking its place among other methods of treatment in the general approach to sickness, homœopathy presents many of the characteristics and demands of a specialty.
Biochemical and biological evidence of the activity of high potencies
Authors: Boyd W.E.
Published: September 2006

1. A method is described for investigating the possible action of microdoses of mercuric chloride on the hydrolysis of soluble starch with malt diastase.

2. The microdoses of the mercuric chloride used in the latest crucial series carried out in1946, 1948, and 1952, were what are termed “high potencies” made in accordance with the pharmaceutical method of preparation of drugs ordinarily used in the practice of homœotherapy.

3. These microdoses were prepared by separate stages of dilution, the solution at each stage being subjected to mechanical shock. The solutions were, theoretically, “dilutions” of the order of 1 in 10−61 and on present physical theory would not contain any molecules of the original mercuric chloride.

4. The difference in rate of hydrolysis between flasks containing starch, diastase, and distilledwater (controls) and flasks containing starch, diastase and microdoses of mercuric chloride (tests) were compared colorimetrically by the Spekker absorptiometer, and the frequencies of the differences statistically analysed, as the results obtained showed biological scatter. More than 500 such comparisons were carried out. The differences of means were examined by the Fisher “t” test, the variances tested and Cochrane and Cox's test applied where indicated. All the series gave a highly significant difference in the rate of hydrolysis between controls and tests, the microdoses stimulating the process. Statistically the significance is shown by the fact that a probability of <0·001 was obtained independently in each of the three years 1946, 1948 and 1952. The control results gave an approximately normal distribution.

5. The distribution, control methods, and accessory control procedures were considered toexclude, as a cause of the effects, adsorption of the original drug and the presence of extraneous contaminants by chance solely in test flasks. The only difference between control and microdose flasks was the addition of microdose, the distilled water being common to both controls and tests.

6. It was concluded that a factor, unidentified, derived from the mercuric chloride used, waspresent in solutions prepared by serial dilution with mechanical shock which could affect the distilled water diluent, that this change was transferable to subsequent “ultramolecular” stages of “dilution”, and that this factor was the source of the activity in the microdose solutions producing the acceleration of the rate of hydrolysis.

7. In an addendum there is described recent biological work which is also providing evidence of the presence of an active selective factor in “high potencies” derived from Strophanthus sarmentosus by the same methods of dilution with mechanical shock.
Unproven nosodes, their use, and some thoughts thereon
Authors: Kerr J. Fraser
Published: September 2006

Out of 11,000 prescriptions only 170 were of the unproven nosodes, and most of these have had other remedies so that conclusions would be mere opinions. But I am able to give the cases of five children and five adults (from 33 to 63 years old) in which the help was quite definite and the results due entirely to the nosode—in one child even decent food was lacking (beyond the school dinner during the war). My conclusion is that when these are needed each is just as important to that patient as any other remedy would be if it were indicated. in two of the cases a neoplasm was feared. In three the whole mental outlook was changed for the better. In one a mental, breakdown was feared (she had been given a year's leave, but went back to India rejoicing before the end of that time).

The one rule for their prescription must be a most definite “never well since so and so”. The “so and so” being an illness from which recovery was very slow or never complete. The other rule is not to repeat, for a very long time and usually other remedies are called for. (Kent's rule must be followed, that is, the same symptoms must return). This is why I favour giving a series of potencies daily, running up, as Hahnemann suggested and Miss Tyler publicized.
Substances in dilutions greater than 10−24
Authors: Stephenson James
Published: September 2006

1 A review of the experimental literature since 1881 revealed 25 investigations into the action of various substances at dilutions greater than 10−24 (microdilutions).

2 W. Boyd, H. Junker and J. Paterson investigated the effect of microdilutions on the growth of paramecia and the alteration of the Schick test.

3 W. Boyd and W. Persson investigated the effects of microdilutions on various enzyme systems.

4 P. Jousset, L. Kolisko, P. Narodetzki and J. Roy investigated the effect of microdilutions on the rate of growth of Aspergillus niger and Sterigmotocystis nigra mycelium, and on the rate of germination of barley and wheat germ.

5 J. Boiron, A. Gay, P. Loch and L. Wurmser demonstrated the effect of microdilutions on light of a fixed wave-length, and that microdilutions have capacitances which vary from the diluting medium. Boericke and Tafel took photographs with microdilutions of radium bromide.

6 B. Fincke and G. Jaeger investigated the effect of microdilutions on the speed of nerve impulses and on the electric field of human beings.

7 G. Henshaw demonstrated the effect of microdilutions on the degree of flocculation of the blood of rabbits; K. König and V. Vondracek on the growth of tadpoles; N. Krawkow on the venous flow from the isolated ears of rabbits and on the skin pigmentation and the blood of frogs; J. Roy on the development of tetanus and tuberculosis in guinea-pigs and G. Stearns and M. Stark on the degree of inheritance of genetically determined tumors of the fruit fly.

8 We hope that this survey will stimulate further laboratory investigations into the actions of microdilutions.
A proving of nidus edulis
Authors: Engel Peter B.
Published: September 2006

Evidence has been produced to show that potencies of Nidus edulis can evoke symptoms in healthy provers. No clinical experience is as yet available, but in accordance with the law of similars certain therapeutic qualities may be surmised. These would resemble the effects of the provings that point to conditions characterized by sudden changes of mood, states of consciousness, sociability, inclination to work, and appetite; phases of aloofness, anger, apathy, impatience (expecially with children), together with tiredness, nausea, headache, and flushing of the face.

This does not necessarily meet the original intentions as mentioned at the beginning, but it may prove useful for a number of other conditions, chiefly in the area of emotional instability.
Therapeutic problems
Authors: Davies Anita E.
Published: September 2006

The problem of the concept of disease as understood in the twentieth century, contrasted with some of the ideas of the eighteenth century, together with the poly-pharmacy of both centuries, is presented as background to Hahnemann's discovery of the value of drug provings in determining therapeutic action. The application of the therapeutic principle of similia similibus currentur is shown to be as relevant today as it was when first introduced by Dr. Hahnemann, and our understanding of health and disease is discussed in the light of this principle.
Children with upper respiratory tract infection
Authors: Campbell Anthony C.H.
Published: September 2006

A survey of experience in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infection in children seen at the Royal London Homœopathic Hospital is presented. The results were assessed as Good in 20 out of 45 patients (44·5 per cent), Fair in 20 (44·5 per cent), and Poor in 5 (11 per cent).
Severe hypertension treated with Spartium and the constitutional homœopathic remedy
Authors: Jack R.A.F.
Published: September 2006

A case of very severe hypertension is described that had resisted intensive conventional treatment in a department of nephrology for over 2 years, and which has been satisfactorily treated, with dramatic improvement in health, for the subsequent 3 years with tincture of Spartium scoparium (broom) and homœopathic medicines only.
Cocculus and how far homœopathy can be taught
Authors: Von Keller Georg
Published: September 2006

Cocculus is presented pharmacologically, as a narcotic and intoxicant. It is shown that the remedy acts chiefly on the nervous system and how this predilection for the nervous system may be discerned even with symptoms involving the mucosa, such as cough and hoarseness. The symptoms differentiating this remedy from others are considered in relation to a number of indications—seasickness, dizziness, headache, dysmenorrhoea, and cough—demonstrating them on the basis of both the literature and the author's own case material.

It is shown how this remedy with its powerful action was during the early years of homœopathy used almost exclusively to treat serious illnesses, where life was at risk, and how this related to a different attitude of the medical profession at that time, when chronic conditions were considered beneath one's notice. It seems to the author that this in fact was one of the reasons why from the early days of homœopathy until well into the present century, doctors using, the “specific” approach in homœopathy were considerably in the majority compared to the “Hahnemannians’. An attempt is then made to show that the individual physician goes through a similar development, and that the homœopathy of specifics is much more easily taught than the Hahnemannian approach.
Case reports of the use of Medorrhinum in three patients suffering from exfoliative dermatitis and one patient with porphyria
Authors: Abdel-Hadi O.B. , Kennedy C.O. , Jenkins M.D.
Published: September 2006

Three cases of patients with the erythroderma syndrome are reported in this paper. All three apparently responded to homœopathic treatment. A fourth case of a patient with a severe dermatitis complicating coproporphyria is also reported.
New toxicology: Lead
Authors: Fisher Peter
Published: September 2006

"All substances are poisons; there is none which is not a poison. The right dose differentiates a poison and a remedy."

Paracelsus

Toxicology has made great advances in recent times. Despite this, modern Homœopaths have made less use of it than did their predecessors. Lead poisoning has a long history. An important recent development is the large scale use of lead-containing petrol additives. Some of the biochemical effects of lead are discussed. Lead can cause a wide range of disorders, including psychological abnormalities in children. It can also simulate motor neurone disease and certain porphyrias. The use of lead in homœopathy should be developed on the basis of these findings.
Pancreatic beta-cell regeneration
Authors: Rastogi D.P. , Saxena A.C. , Kumar Sunil
Published: September 2006

Cephalendra, indica ∅ (41% v/v alcoholic extract of the wild variety of Cephalendra indica Naud.), on regular administration in doses ranging from 25 μml to 75 μml/100 g of body weight (gbw) by the oral or intraperitoneal (ip) route produced a significant fall in blood sugar level in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Biochemical studies showed stabilization of blood sugar level in 70% of cases of fourteen to twenty days after withdrawal of the drug. Histopathological studies revealed regeneration of pancreatic β cells. The hypothesis is that the drug acts through the hypothalamo-hypophysial-pancreatic axis, producing selective regeneration of β cells. The drug may indirectly release inhibitory factors from hypothalamic neurons, inhibiting the secretion of growth hormone and triggering insulin secretion from β cells. The therapeutic action of the drug on pancreatic β cells and lack of acute and subacute toxicity may open up new prospects in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.
The future of The Royal London Homœopathic Hospital
Authors: Jenkins M.D.
Published: September 2006

Since 1974, when the RLHH lost its status as a single hospital group and its own board of management, it has suffered in terms of loss of identity, inadequate capital investment and uninterested management. We believe that these trends can be reversed by the formation of an NHS Hospital Trust to govern the hospital. There is a strong public demand for homœopathy and other complementary forms of medicine within the health service. The staff of the hospital are committed to maintaining these services. We believe that if the hospital were seen to be independent there would be very considerable scope for raising funds from charitable sources and from the private sector to finance the redevelopment of the hospital as an active, progressive national and international centre for practice, teaching and research in homœopathy and complementary medicine.
Chronic diseases of Hahnemann in the light of microecology
Authors: Linder Reinhold
Published: September 2006

The management of Hahnemann's ‘chronic diseases’ presents certain difficulties. In particular the difficulty of finding a suitable homœopathic drug is noted.

Bach's and Paterson's work on bowel nosodes opened a totally new way of looking at homœopathy and chronic disease (miasms). Since their time the homœopathic profession has done little to take their research further.

Parallel to the work of Bach and Paterson continental bacteriologists and clinicians developed therapeutic concepts based on intestinal microbes. Their research has become internationally respected and is part of the new sciences of microecology (microbes vs. host association) and gnotobiology (germfree research on animals). Both these sciences allow for additional diagnostic and therapeutic insights that are relevant to homœopathy.

Although the non-lactose fermenters, as defined by Bach and Paterson, are important in chronic disease, other bacteria have equal significance. The ecology of microbe and host, as expressed in their qualitative relatedness, needs to be better understood.

The author's effort over many years has been to correlate and integrate these modern findings of bowel flora research and autogenous vaccines with his homœopathic practice. It is suggested that, apart from the therapeutic benefits to be gained by this approach, modern faecal bacteriology analysis could become a useful monitoring tool to evaluate the response to medicines prescribed on homœopathic principles.