Evaluation of a Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Intervention in Individuals with Fibromyalgia.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the feasibility and safety of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in patients with fibromyalgia (FM). DESIGN: A cohort study with a delayed treatment arm used as a comparator. SETTING: Hyperbaric Medicine Unit, Toronto General Hospital, Ontario, Canada. SUBJECTS: Eighteen patients diagnosed with FM according to the American College of Rheumatology and a score ≥60 on the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire. METHODS: Participants were randomized to receive immediate HBOT intervention (n = 9) or HBOT after a 12-week waiting period (n = 9). HBOT was delivered at 100% oxygen at 2.0 atmospheres per session, 5 days per week, for 8 weeks. Safety was evaluated by the frequency and severity of adverse effects reported by patients. Feasibility was assessed by recruitment, retention, and HBOT compliance rates. Both groups were assessed at baseline, after HBOT intervention, and at 3 months' follow-up. Validated assessment tools were used to evaluate pain, psychological variables, fatigue, and sleep quality. RESULTS: A total of 17 patients completed the study. One patient withdrew after randomization. HBOT-related adverse events included mild middle-ear barotrauma in three patients and new-onset myopia in four patients. The efficacy of HBOT was evident in most of the outcomes in both groups. This improvement was sustained at 3-month follow-up assessment. CONCLUSION: HBOT appears to be feasible and safe for individuals with FM. It is also associated with improved global functioning, reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improved quality of sleep that was sustained at 3-month follow-up assessment.

Effect of heat wave on N2 fixation and N remobilisation of lentil (Lens culinaris MEDIK) grown under free air CO2 enrichment in a mediterranean-type environment.

The stimulatory effect of elevated [CO2 ] (e[CO2 ]) on crop production in future climates is likely to be cancelled out by predicted increases in average temperatures. This effect may become stronger through more frequent and severe heat waves, which are predicted to increase in most climate change scenarios. Whilst the growth and yield response of some legumes grown under the interactive effect of e[CO2 ] and heat waves has been studied, little is known about how N2 fixation and overall N metabolism is affected by this combination. To address these knowledge gaps, two lentil genotypes were grown under ambient [CO2 ] (a[CO2 ], ~400 µmol·mol-1 ) and e[CO2 ] (~550 µmol·mol-1 ) in the Australian Grains Free Air CO2 Enrichment facility and exposed to a simulated heat wave (3-day periods of high temperatures ~40 °C) at flat pod stage. Nodulation and concentrations of water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC), total free amino acids, N and N2 fixation were assessed following the imposition of the heat wave until crop maturity. Elevated [CO2 ] stimulated N2 fixation so that total N2 fixation in e[CO2 ]-grown plants was always higher than in a[CO2 ], non-stressed control plants. Heat wave triggered a significant decrease in active nodules and WSC concentrations, but e[CO2 ] had the opposite effect. Leaf N remobilization and grain N improved under interaction of e[CO2 ] and heat wave. These results suggested that larger WSC pools and nodulation under e[CO2 ] can support post-heat wave recovery of N2 fixation. Elevated [CO2 ]-induced accelerated leaf N remobilisation might contribute to restore grain N concentration following a heat wave.

Investigation of the 1758G>C and 2880A>G variants within the NCOA3 gene in a breast cancer affected Australian population.

NCOA3 is a known low to moderate-risk breast cancer susceptibility gene, amplified in 5-10% and over expressed in about 60% of breast tumours. Additionally, this over expression is associated with Tamoxifen resistance and poor prognosis. Previously, two variants of NCOA3, 1758G>C and 2880A>G have been associated with breast cancer in two independent populations. Here we assessed the influence of the two NCOA3 variants on breast cancer risk by genotyping an Australian case-control study population. 172 cases and 178 controls were successfully genotyped for the 1758G>C variant and 186 cases and 182 controls were successfully genotyped for the 2880A>G variant using high-resolution melt analysis (HRM). The genotypes of the 1758G>C variant were validated by sequencing. χ(2) tests were performed to determine if significant differences exist in the genotype and allele frequencies between the cases and controls. χ(2) analysis returned no statistically significant difference (p>0.05) for genotype frequencies between cases and controls for 1758G>C (χ(2)=0.97, p=0.6158) or 2880A>G (χ(2)=2.09, p=0.3516). Similarly, no statistical difference was observed for allele frequencies for 1758G>C (χ(2)=0.07, p=0.7867) or 2880A>G (χ(2)=0.04, p=0.8365). Haplotype analysis of the two SNPs also showed no difference between the cases and the controls (p=0.9585). Our findings in an Australian Caucasian population composed of breast cancer sufferers and an age matched control population did not support the findings of previous studies demonstrating that these markers play a significant role in breast cancer susceptibility. Here, no significant difference was detected between breast cancer patients and healthy matched controls by either the genotype or allele frequencies for the investigated variants (all p ≥ 0.05). While an association of the two variants and breast cancer was not detected in our case-control study population, exploring these variants in a larger population of the same kind may obtain results in concordance with previous studies. Given the importance of NCOA3 and its involvement in biological processes involved in breast cancer and the possible implications variants of the gene could have on the response to Tamoxifen therapy, NCOA3 remains a candidate for further investigations.

Complementary medicine use in patients with head and neck cancer in Ireland.

The objectives of the study were: first, to determine the prevalence of traditional medicine (TM) and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use in head and neck cancer patients in Ireland; second, to educate ourselves on the plethora of CAM/TM options available to patients outside the dominion of conventional medicine. The study design consisted of a cross-sectional survey carried out in three head and neck cancer centres. Self-administered questionnaires were distributed to 110 head and neck cancer patients attending the three cancer centres and data were collected for statistical analysis. A total of 106 patients completed the questionnaire; 21.7% of the participants used CAM/TM since their diagnosis with head and neck cancer. CAM/TM usage was higher in female (34.3%) than in male patients (16.2%). CAM/TM use was more common in the 41-50-year age group, in patients with higher educational levels and those holding strong religious beliefs, and also in married than single patients. The most common types of CAM/TM used were spiritual and laying on of hands. The most common reasons reported for using CAM/TM were to counteract the ill effects of treatment and increase the body's ability to fight cancer. Sources of information on CAM/TM were friends (65%), family (48%) and media (21%). This survey reveals a high prevalence of CAM/TM use in head and neck cancer patients, hence emphasising the need for otolaryngologists to educate themselves on the various therapies available to be able to provide informative advice. There is an urgent need for evidence-based investigation of various CAM/TM therapies currently offered to patients.

Efficacy and pitfalls of fine needle aspiration in the diagnosis of neck masses.

BACKGROUND: Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) is now well established in the assessment of cervical masses. The purpose of the present study is to review the efficacy of this procedure, as well as to identify any pitfalls that may limit its usefulness. METHODS: One hundred and ninety aspirations of neck masses performed over a recent five-year period were reviewed. The definitive diagnosis of the mass was determined in each case by review of the patients' case notes. RESULTS: Thirty seven per cent of all neck lumps were malignant. The most common cause for a false-negative result, in the case of a carcinomatous mass when an adequate sample had been obtained, was a cystic neoplasm. One quarter of all cystic lateral cervical masses not considered suspicious for malignancy by FNAB turned out to be malignant. CONCLUSION: Repeating FNAB in cases where the original result is negative for carcinoma may increase the sensitivity of FNAB in the detection of cystic carcinomas.

3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA): a review.

This article reviews the history, pharmacology, and adverse events associated with the use of 3,4-methylenendioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), commonly known as Ecstasy. Past research describing the neurotoxic effects of MDMA in animals, current research on the neurotoxic effects of MDMA in humans, and the attendant changes in psychologic functioning will be highlighted in this review. Finally, the limitations of human research on the effects of MDMA and suggestions for future MDMA research will be discussed.

Opioid antagonists in the treatment of alcohol dependence.

This article reviews the use of opioid antagonists in the pharmacologic treatment of alcohol dependence. The rationale for using the opioid antagonists naltrexone and nalmefene to prevent relapse in alcohol-dependent subjects is discussed by reviewing past and current clinical trials. The role of psychotherapies, particularly coping skills therapy, in combination with opioid antagonists is highlighted in the presentations of the clinical data. Finally, future research directions for opioid antagonists are discussed.

Lacrimal fossa block: an audit of a minimally invasive regional anaesthetic technique for endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR).

The lacrimal fossa block (LFB), a new development to provide regional anaesthesia for endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy, is reported. Cadaveric study showed that the block needle, inserted as described, made direct contact with the periosteum of the frontal process of the maxilla within the lacrimal fossa. This technique enables both relevant divisions of the trigeminal nerve to be anaesthetized through a single entry site and, as this injection is confined to the anterior part of the orbit, ocular complications are minimized. An audit of 66 patients has shown that this technique, combined with standard intranasal local anaesthesia, provides good intraoperative analgesia, causes minimal diplopia and has a high level of patient acceptability.

Serious complication of tongue piercing.

The case of an 18-year-old patient who developed critical upper airway compromise after central tongue piercing is presented. Otolaryngologists must be aware of the many potential complications of tongue piercing and their management.

Pharmacotherapies for cocaine dependence.

This article reviews the history of pharmacologic trials for the treatment of cocaine dependence as well as current treatments under investigation. The rationale for use of agents such as dopaminergic agents, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants is discussed. Early clinical trials with pharmacologic agents have demonstrated both positive and negative results; the possible reasons for these mixed outcomes is also discussed. Recent studies focusing on disulfiram, dopamine-selective antagonists, citicoline, aspirin, and a cocaine-specific vaccine are presented to highlight innovative and potentially effective treatments for individuals with cocaine dependence.

Neural fibrolipoma: an unusual case.

A 45-year-old gentleman presented with a diffuse left neck mass. Surgical exploration revealed a large lipomatous lesion. Histological examination identified this to be a neural fibrolipoma. This is the first reported case of this lesion in the neck.

Antiproliferative actions of inhalational anesthetics: comparisons to the valproate teratogen.

The antiproliferative potential of the volatile anesthetics isoflurane, enflurane and sevoflurane was determined and compared to the valproate teratogen. The in vitro system employed, a G1 phase proliferative arrest endpoint in C6 glioma, has served previously to discriminate agents with known teratogenic potential in vivo. Based on estimated IC(50) values that were within twice the estimated minimum aveolar concentration value, the rank antiproliferative potency of the inhalational anesthetics employed was isoflurane=enflurane>>sevoflurane. Flow cytometric analysis of growth-arrested cell populations failed to reveal specific accumulation in any cell cycle phase and the lack of a G1 phase-specific effect was confirmed by the absence of a transient, time-dependent sialylation event in synchronized cells. The antiproliferative mechanism of volatile anesthetics, and valproate, was mediated at hydrophobic binding sites, as increasing the hydration sphere of the drug-micelle complex, using the hygroscopic qualities of the dimethylsulfoxide vehicle, completely reversed this effect. Our findings suggest inhalational anesthetics lack the specific in vitro characteristics of the valproate teratogen.

Reactivity of ferulic acid and its derivatives toward hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid.

The reactions of ferulic acid and its derivatives with hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid in lignin-retaining bleaching conditions have been investigated to determine their susceptibility to oxidative degradation. The conjugated side chain of ferulic acid and its etherified or esterified derivative was shown to be fairly stable, especially to hydrogen peroxide. The major reaction was trans-cis isomerization that possibly involved a radical mechanism but did not cause bond cleavage. The peracetic acid reaction increased the rate of trans-cis isomerization and was also accompanied by a minor cleavage of the side chain. Esterification did not have a substantial effect on the reactivity of ferulic acid, but 4-O-etherification significantly stabilized it against these two oxidants. By contrast, aldehyde substitution tremendously enhanced the susceptibility of the cinnamyl side chain to oxidative degradation, as evidenced by an intensive degradation of coniferaldehyde.

Sex differences in marijuana use in the United States.

Marijuana and other cannabis preparations are the most widely used illicit drugs in the United States. A review of the literature reveals a number of sex differences in the epidemiology and adverse medical consequences of marijuana use. In 1995, 6.5% of females and 10.5% of males aged 12 and older reported marijuana use in the previous year. Although 4% more males than females used marijuana, the percentage of males using marijuana between 1994 and 1995 had decreased, whereas the percentage of females using marijuana during that same period had increased. Among females, the age of initiation of use is declining and the prevalence of problems with marijuana is on the rise. Both male and female marijuana users may experience adverse effects of cognitive dysfunction and airway inflammation. However, clinicians should be aware of sex-specific effects of marijuana use, including a possible increased risk of prostate cancer for male users and possible adverse effects on reproductive hormones in female users. Review of the available information on this topic indicates that we have much more to learn about the similarities and differences between males and females with respect to patterns of use, adverse consequences, and vulnerabilities to marijuana.

Synthesis, anti-human immunodeficiency virus activity and esterase lability of some novel carboxylic ester-modified phosphoramidate derivatives of stavudine (d4T).

We report the design, synthesis and antiviral evaluation of a series of lipophilic, masked phosphoramidate derivatives of the anti-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) nucleoside analogue d4T, designed to act as membrane-soluble prodrug forms for the free nucleotide. In particular, we report a series of 12 novel compounds with systematic variation in the structure of the carboxylate ester function. In order to rationalize the changes in antiviral action with variation of this moiety we applied our recently developed 31P NMR-based assay for carboxyesterase lability to this series. However, no clear positive correlation emerged, indicating that, at least within this series, factors other than simple esterase lability may be the major determinants of antiviral potency.

Epidural morphine vs hydromorphone in post-caesarean section patients.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this randomized controlled double blind study was to compare the efficacy of pain relief and the side effects of epidural hydromorphone and morphine in post-Caesarean patients. METHODS: In all patients, epidural anaesthesia was induced using carbonated lidocaine 2% with 1:200,000 epinephrine and 50 micrograms fentanyl, given in incremental doses. Patients in Group 1 (n = 24) received 0.6 mg hydromorphone and patients in Group 2 (n = 22) received 3 mg morphine after delivery of the infant. Pain, pruritus and nausea were measured using a visual analog scale (at times: baseline, on admission to the recovery room, 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 hr postoperatively), by the number of requests for additional medications and by an overall satisfaction score. RESULTS: There was no difference between the groups in pain relief of in the incidence and severity of side effects. Pruritus was more pronounced within the first six hours in Group 1 and at 18 hr in Group 2. CONCLUSION: Hydromorphone provides no clinical benefit over epidural morphine for post operative analgesia following Caesarean section.

Association of Epstein-Barr virus with sinonasal angiocentric T cell lymphoma.

AIM: To investigate whether non-Hodgkin's lymphomas arising in the sinonasal region or Waldeyer's ring contain the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) genome in lesional tissue. METHOD: Sections from paraffin wax blocks of 22 lymphoid proliferations arising in the sinonasal region or Waldeyer's ring were studied with EBV encoded RNAs (EBER-1 and -2) using in situ hybridisation. RESULTS: EBV was detected in nuclei of tumour cells of five of seven T cell lymphomas and in nuclei of two of seven diffuse, large cell immunoblastic lymphomas of B phenotype in the sinonasal region. Of tumours arising in Waldeyer's ring, two of 10 non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (both large cell) were positive, as was a single case of Hodgkin's disease. Lymphoma of other types, including Western type Burkitt's lymphoma, and nodular and diffuse small cleaved cell lymphoma, were negative. CONCLUSION: EBV is highly associated with large cell lymphomas especially T cell lymphomas of sinonasal origin in the indigenous Irish population, underlining the importance of this virus in nasopharyngeal lymphomas in Northern European as well as Asian populations.