Beliefs, behaviour, and blood pressure: preliminary analysis from a pharmacy-based hypertension visualisation intervention to support medication adherence

Introduction

Hypertension is the leading preventable risk factor for cardiovascular disease, with an estimated prevalence of 31% worldwide1. Antihypertensive medication reduces both blood pressure (BP) and cardiovascular risk; however, approximately 50% of patients become nonadherent to antihypertensives within a year of treatment initiation2. Nonadherence can be considered as either intentional or unintentional. Research suggests that rather than being a solely passive process, illness beliefs and treatment perceptions may influence nonintentional nonadherence3, highlighting the importance of considering patients’ beliefs when supporting adherence. The use of visuals is one method to aid understanding of complex health information and influence treatment beliefs.

Aim

To investigate the feasibility and acceptability of a community pharmacy-based visualisation intervention (ViSTA-BP) and explore the preliminary effect on patients’ perceptions of hypertension, medication adherence and blood pressure.

Methods

ViSTA-BP is a digital intervention that allows users, through real-time animations, to visualise both the condition that is hypertension and how blood pressure affects the circulatory system. The purpose of ViSTA-BP was to improve patients’ understanding of hypertension, increase perceived necessity of treatment and ultimately support medication adherence. A mixed-methods pre-post design pilot study was conducted. NHS Research Ethics Committee Wales Rec 5 (reference 20/WA/0280) and Cardiff Metropolitan University (reference PGR-3806) granted ethical approval. The intervention was consultation-based and researcher-facilitated. Outcomes were recorded at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and at three-months. Validated questionnaires were used to measure illness and treatment beliefs (Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (B-IPQ)/Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire (BMQ)), adherence captured using self-report measures (Medicines Adherence Rating Scale (MARS-5)/recent adherence questionnaire) and medication dispensing/collection data. BP was measured at baseline and 3-month follow-up. Semi-structured interviews with patients and pharmacists explored intervention acceptability.

Results

Pharmacists recruited 69 patients with hypertension across five community pharmacies (CP) in South Wales; 54 attended the three-month follow-up. The ease of participant recruitment and high retention rates demonstrated the feasibility of delivering ViSTA-BP in this setting. ViSTA-BP content and the CP location were acceptable to patients and pharmacists. Time to deliver the intervention was a concern for pharmacists but not patients. There was no statistically significant change in adherence outcomes at three-month follow-up; however, the median scores for both self-report questionnaires were maximal at baseline. Changes were seen in illness belief scores, with a significant improvement in total B-IPQ score over time (p=0.04). Significant changes in B-IPQ treatment control (p=0.01), illness coherence (p<0.001) and BMQ Necessity subscale scores (p=0.003) were reported at all time-points. There was a statistically significant improvement in both systolic (SBP) (p<0.01) and diastolic BP (DBP) (p=0.03) three-months post-intervention. At baseline, 31% of participants had SBP at or below the UK target; however, at three-month follow-up, 59% were at or below the UK target.

Discussion/Conclusion

ViSTA-BP was considered a feasible researcher-facilitated intervention in this CP setting. Improvements seen in blood pressure control, patients’ understanding of hypertension, and perceptions of utility and necessity of treatment highlight the potential for the ViSTA-BP intervention to help reduce cardiovascular risk in the future. While preliminary analysis shows promise, further adequately powered research studies are necessary to evaluate future ViSTA-BP impact.

References

1. Mills KT, Stefanescu A, He J. The global epidemiology of hypertension. Nat Rev Nephrol. 2020;16(4):223-237. doi:10.1038/s41581-019-0244-2

2. Vrijens B, Antoniou S, Burnier M, de la Sierra A, Volpe M. Current situation of medication adherence in hypertension. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8. doi:10.3389/fphar.2017.00100

3. Gadkari AS, McHorney CA. Unintentional non-adherence to chronic prescription medications: how unintentional is it really? BMC Health Serv Res. 2012;12(1):98. doi:10.1186/1472-6963-12-98

Impact of Conventional and Integrated Management Systems on the Water-Soluble Vitamin Content in Potatoes, Field Beans, and Cereals

The reduction of the environmental footprint of crop production without compromising crop yield and their nutritional value is a key goal for improving the sustainability of agriculture. In 2009, the Balruddery Farm Platform was established at The James Hutton Institute as a long-term experimental platform for cross-disciplinary research of crops using two agricultural ecosystems. Crops representative of UK agriculture were grown under conventional and integrated management systems and analyzed for their water-soluble vitamin content. Integrated management, when compared with the conventional system, had only minor effects on water-soluble vitamin content, where significantly higher differences were seen for the conventional management practice on the levels of thiamine in field beans (p < 0.01), Spring barley (p < 0.05), and Winter wheat (p < 0.05), and for nicotinic acid in Spring barley (p < 0.05). However, for all crops, variety and year differences were of greater importance. These results indicate that the integrated management system described in this study does not significantly affect the water-soluble vitamin content of the crops analyzed here.

Tensile properties and critical current strain limits of reinforced Bi-2212 conductors for high field magnets

We study here the effect of axial strain on the degradation of the critical current I_c for bare and reinforced, overpressure processed Bi-2212 conductors. We show that reinforcement markedly improves the conductor's stress limit, doubling it from ~150 MPa in the bare conductor to ~300 MPa when reinforced. We find also that certain processes used to reinforce the conductor slightly reduce the I_c degradation strain limit from ~0.6% to ~0.4%. Stress vs strain data taken from the samples studied here has been used to create a finite element model to explore the feasibility of using a reinforced Bi-2212 strand (produced by Solid Material Solutions) in a small test coil. The model predicts an IC limited coil with a maximum hoop strain of 0.31%, well below the experimentally verified strain limit, and is designed to lead to Bi-2212 coils that are not strain limited, but I_c limited.

Reducing unnecessary preoperative testing in elective ENT surgery: clinical and financial implications

Guidelines on appropriate preoperative testing in elective surgery were published by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in 2003. However, compliance has been poor, with frequent unnecessary tests being performed. We aimed to assess our trust's guideline compliance and to implement changes to optimise adherence. Preoperative investigations performed for elective ENT surgery during a three-month period were retrospectively audited. Unnecessary investigations were identified and costs calculated. A staff-training program was implemented and targeted written information was provided for clinics. A second audit cycle was conducted subsequently. Overall, 69.2% of blood tests were unnecessary (FBC 44.9%, U&Es 63.5%, clotting 99.2%), which equated to £1955.77 with an annual estimate of £7,823.08. None of the test results affected the management of the patient. Post-intervention, full compliance was achieved. It was concluded that preoperative investigations are overused in elective surgery, with obvious financial implications and causing unnecessary anxiety to patients. Through basic training and guideline dissemination, complete compliance can be achieved.

Impact of light-exposure on the metabolite balance of transgenic potato tubers with modified glycoalkaloid biosynthesis

Metabolite profiling (liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and gas chromatography (GC-MS)) was used to assess the impact of light on the composition of transgenic potato (Solanum tuberosum L. cv. Desirée) with reduced glycoalkaloid content via the down-regulation of the SGT1 gene. Transgenic tubers exhibited an almost complete knock-out of α-solanine production and light had little impact on its accumulation. Levels of α-chaconine increased significantly in the peel of both the control and transgenic lines when exposed to light, particularly in the transgenic line. Major differences in metabolite profiles existed between outer and inner tuber tissues, and between light and dark-treated tubers. Many of the light-induced changes are explicable in terms of pathways known to be affected by stress responses. The impact of transgenesis on profiles was much less than that of tissue type or light and most differences were explicable in terms of the modification to the glycoalkaloid pathway.

Impacts on the metabolome of down-regulating polyphenol oxidase in potato tubers

Tubers of potato (Solanum tuberosum L. cv. Estima) genetically modified to reduce polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity and enzymatic discolouration were assessed for changes in the metabolome using Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) and Gas Chromatography (GC)-MS. Metabolome changes induced over a 48 hour (h) period by tuber wounding (sliced transverse sections) were also assessed using two PPO antisense lines (asPPO) and a wild-type (WT) control. Data were analysed using Principal Components Analysis and Analysis of Variance to assess differences between genotypes and temporal changes post-tuber wounding (by slicing). The levels of 15 metabolites (out of a total of 134 that were detected) differed between the WT and asPPO lines in mature tubers at harvest. A considerably higher number (63) of these metabolites changed significantly over a 48 h period following tuber wounding. For individual metabolites the magnitude of the differences between the WT and asPPO lines at harvest were small compared with the impacts of tuber wounding on metabolite levels. Some of the observed metabolite changes are explicable in terms of pathways known to be affected by wound responses. Whilst some statistically significant interactions (11 metabolites) were observed between line and time after wounding, very few profiles were consistent when comparing the WT with both asPPO lines, and the underlying metabolites appeared to be random in terms of the pathways they occupy. Overall, mechanical damage to tubers has a considerably greater impact on the metabolite profile than any potential unintended effects resulting from the down-regulation of PPO gene expression.

The suspected scaphoid injury: resource implications in the absence of magnetic resonance imaging

INTRODUCTION

Undiagnosed and untreated scaphoid fractures have poorer outcomes and many patients are unnecessarily immobilised for prolonged periods of time to avoid missing occult injuries. Magnetic resonance imaging has a high sensitivity and specificity in detecting occult scaphoid fractures, but many units do not routinely use this imaging modality in the diagnostic pathway. We aimed to determine the patterns of suspected scaphoid injuries, report the process of care, and calculate the costs involved in their management.

METHODS

We prospectively identified all adult patients referred to fracture clinic at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh with a scaphoid-related injury, between October 2007 and September 2008. Clinical notes were examined retrospectively. We defined three injury groups: true fractures, occult fractures, and suspected scaphoid injuries. We analysed patient demographics, treatment timelines, and the treatment costs involved.

RESULTS

Fracture clinic received 537 scaphoid-related referrals. There were 87 true fractures, 43 occult fractures, and 407 suspected injuries, incurring average treatment costs of £1,173, £773, and £384 respectively. Occult fractures accounted for 33% of all confirmed scaphoid fractures. The majority of scaphoid-related referrals (76%) were never proven to have a scaphoid fracture, and many were unnecessarily immobilised. The costs involved in the treatment of suspected scaphoid injuries were found to be higher than the cost of magnetic resonance imaging (£97).

CONCLUSION

In this group of suspected scaphoid injury, we believe the introduction of an early magnetic resonance imaging protocol would lead to an earlier definitive diagnosis and potentially a more cost-effective service.

Radiation treatment of spinal tumors using Cyberknife radiosurgery

1545

Background: Morbidity associated with spinal tumors can leave patients with functional limitations, pain, and poor quality of life. Since the integrity of the spinal column and the spinal cord must be preserved, treatments are limited especially in the setting of previous radiotherapy. We describe our experience using Cyberknife fractionated stereotactic radiosurgery in the initial treatment and retreatment of spinal tumors and its impact on patient quality of life. Methods: 152 patients with primary or metastatic spinal tumors were treated to 228 spinal sites at Georgetown University Hospital from 2002 to 2005. Neurologic examination, pain assessment by visual analog scale (0–100), and quality of life evaluations by SF-12 survey (mental and physical health scores) were performed initially and at 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 months following treatment. The primary endpoints were pain and quality of life. 44 patients (109 sites) received Cyberknife radiosurgery as a component of their initial management. The median dose delivered was 2400 cGy (range 1400–8000) in 1–5 fractions (median 3). Median tumor volume was 56 mm3 (range 0.65–457.26). 108 patients (119 sites) with recurrent/persistent disease and a history of prior conventional radiation to the spine received Cyberknife radiosurgery as retreatment. Previous radiation doses ranged from 2000–5940 cGy. The median retreatment dose delivered was 2100 cGy (range 750–3500) in 1–5 fractions (median 3). Median tumor volume was 107.2 mm3 (range 0.94–838.9). Results: Optimized treatment plans were designed with the goal of limiting spinal cord doses. Median follow up is 13 months. No complications have been observed, including treatment related myelitis. Across all patients, the mean initial pain score was 73. Mean pain scores decreased significantly after the first month to 49 and remained significantly lower (40–44) for over one year. SF-12 PCS (initial mean 33) and MCS scores (initial mean 47) remained stable during the duration of the study. Conclusions: Fractionated stereotactic radiosurgery using the CyberKnife is a safe and effective treatment capable of delivering high-dose radiation to primary and recurrent spinal tumors. Follow-up data demonstrates durable pain relief and stable quality of life.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Modulation of fructokinase activity of potato (Solanum tuberosum) results in substantial shifts in tuber metabolism

Potato plants (Solanum tuberosum L. cvs Desiree and Record) transformed with sense and antisense constructs of a cDNA encoding the potato fructokinase StFK1 exhibited altered transcription of this gene, altered amount of protein and altered enzyme activities. Measurement of the maximal catalytic activity of fructokinase revealed a 2-fold variation in leaf (from 90 to 180% of wild type activity) and either a 10- or 30-fold variation in tuber (from 10 or 30% to 300% in Record and Desiree, respectively) activity. The comparative effect of the antisense construct in leaf and tuber tissue suggests that this isoform is only a minor contributor to the total fructokinase activity in the leaf but the predominant isoform in the tuber. Antisense inhibition of the fructokinase resulted in a reduced tuber yield; however, its overexpression had no impact on this parameter. The modulation of fructokinase activity had few, consistent effects on carbohydrate levels, with the exception of a general increase in glucose content in the antisense lines, suggesting that this enzyme is not important for the control of starch synthesis. However, when metabolic fluxes were estimated, it became apparent that the transgenic lines display a marked shift in metabolism, with the rate of redistribution of radiolabel to sucrose markedly affected by the activity of fructokinase. These data suggest an important role for fructokinase, acting in concert with sucrose synthase, in maintaining a balance between sucrose synthesis and degradation by a mechanism independent of that controlled by the hexose phosphate-mediated activation of sucrose phosphate synthase.

Synthesis of L-ascorbic acid in the phloem

BACKGROUND

Although plants are the main source of vitamin C in the human diet, we still have a limited understanding of how plants synthesise L-ascorbic acid (AsA) and what regulates its concentration in different plant tissues. In particular, the enormous variability in the vitamin C content of storage organs from different plants remains unexplained. Possible sources of AsA in plant storage organs include in situ synthesis and long-distance transport of AsA synthesised in other tissues via the phloem. In this paper we examine a third possibility, that of synthesis within the phloem.

RESULTS

We provide evidence for the presence of AsA in the phloem sap of a wide range of crop species using aphid stylectomy and histochemical approaches. The activity of almost all the enzymes of the primary AsA biosynthetic pathway were detected in phloem-rich vascular exudates from Cucurbita pepo fruits and AsA biosynthesis was demonstrated in isolated phloem strands from Apium graveolens petioles incubated with a range of precursors (D-glucose, D-mannose, L-galactose and L-galactono-1,4-lactone). Phloem uptake of D-[U-14C]mannose and L-[1-14C]galactose (intermediates of the AsA biosynthetic pathway) as well as L-[1-14C]AsA and L-[1-14C]DHA, was observed in Nicotiana benthamiana leaf discs.

CONCLUSIONS

We present the novel finding that active AsA biosynthesis occurs in the phloem. This process must now be considered in the context of mechanisms implicated in whole plant AsA distribution. This work should provoke studies aimed at elucidation of the in vivo substrates for phloem AsA biosynthesis and its contribution to AsA accumulation in plant storage organs.

Urachal adenocarcinoma in situ with pseudomyxoma peritonei: a case report

A 54 year old man presented with a six month history of abdominal pain. A computerised tomography scan showed a well defined intra-abdominal unilocular mass with a calcified wall just superior to the bladder. At laparotomy, pseudomyxoma peritonei was discovered, together with a midline abdominal mass adherent to the anterior abdominal wall originating from the fundus of the bladder. The specimen consisted of a cystic mass measuring 14 x 9.5 x 7 cm overall, which contained mucoid material. Histological examination revealed that the cyst was lined by mucinous epithelium, which in areas varied from having bland morphology to showing pronounced nuclear and architectural atypia. There was abundant extracellular mucin. The specimen was extensively sampled but there was no evidence of invasion. This tumour has many unusual features, namely: the absence of destructive invasion, association with pseudomyxoma peritonei, areas of dysplasia and cystadenoma, and stromal osseous metaplasia within the wall.

Copy-DNA cloning and characterisation of a potato alpha-glucosidase: expression in Escherichia coli and effects of down-regulation in transgenic potato

Polymerase chain reaction-based methodology was used to obtain a cDNA clone (MAL2) from potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) with the sequence characteristics of an alpha-glucosidase. Phylogenetic analysis of the deduced polypeptide encoded by this cDNA demonstrated that the most similar sequences were alpha-glucosidases and alpha-xylosidases of plant origin. The MAL2 cDNA was expressed in Escherichia coli and the recombinant MAL2 protein was affinity-purified. MAL2 catalysed the hydrolysis of a range of maltooligomers and p-nitrophenyl-alpha-D-glucopyranoside with a pH optimum of 5.5-5.7. The substrate with the lowest Km value was maltotetraose (3.7 mM). The MAL2 expression product did not catalyse the hydrolysis of xyloglucan oligosaccharides, p-nitrophenyl-alpha-D-xylopyranoside or gelatinised potato starch. MAL2 was down-regulated in transgenic potato plants using an antisense approach. In several independent transgenic antisense lines, MAL2 expression was severely down-regulated. Despite this, no decrease in total extractable alpha-glucosidase and alpha-xylosidase activity could be detected in tissues from the transgenic plants. In glasshouse trials, no visible phenotype, change in tuber yield or carbohydrate content was associated with MAL2 down-regulation. The implications of these results are discussed.

A potato alpha-glucosidase gene encodes a glycoprotein-processing alpha-glucosidase II-like activity. Demonstration of enzyme activity and effects of down-regulation in transgenic plants

In order to elucidate more fully the function of a potato gene (MAL1) encoding alpha-glucosidase activity, transgenic plants in which MAL1 expression was down-regulated were generated using antisense technology. In transgenic lines severely down-regulated in the expression of MAL1, total alpha-glucosidase activity was not decreased in leaves and tubers, and the contents of starch, glucose, fructose and sucrose remained unchanged in tubers. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the MAL1 gene product was more similar to the glycoprotein-processing alpha-glucosidase II of mammalian and yeast origin than to other plant alpha-glucosidases. Using [14C-Glc]-labelled Glc2Man9GlcNAc2 as a substrate, it was demonstrated that glucosidase II activity was markedly down-regulated in microsomes isolated from tubers of four independent antisense lines studied in detail, strongly suggesting that MAL1 encodes glucosidase II activity. In field trials (but not in the glasshouse), MAL1 down-regulation produced an extremely stunted phenotype - the leaves were curled and tuber yield was decreased by 90% compared to control values. Microscopic analysis of leaves revealed significant differences between the antisense and control samples. Plants with down-regulated glucosidase II activity showed a greater degree of plasmolysis, and an increase in the size of mesophyll intracellular spaces. Analysis of cell walls also indicated changes in structure as a result of MAL1 down-regulation. In leaves from four antisense lines, the steady-state transcript level corresponding to the endoplasmic reticulum chaperone, BiP, was enhanced. This is diagnostic of stress in the endoplasmic reticulum.

Using handheld computers to document family practice resident procedure experience

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

We examined the use of inexpensive handheld computers in documenting resident procedures. With a handheld computer, data is entered at the time of the procedure, eliminating the problem of double entry.

METHODS

Connectivity and ease of use were important factors considered when choosing a handheld computer. All residents received a handheld computer for data entry. Residency staff downloaded the data to a desktop computer. At the same time, data useful to residents was placed on their devices. The process of generating individual and program reports required 2 hours of staff time each month. Survey data regarding use and acceptance by residents was collected.

RESULTS

Eighty-eight percent of residents collected data on their handheld computer. Those residents responding to a survey felt that the handheld computer was "very useful," and 73% reported daily use. Initial costs were $310 per resident.

CONCLUSIONS

Handheld computers streamlined the collection of procedure data for family practice residents. Handheld computers assisted in producing timely and useful procedural reports for both residents and the residency program. Additional uses of handheld computers were beneficial to the program and the residents.

Manipulation of S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase activity in potato tubers. An increase in activity leads to an increase in tuber number and a change in tuber size distribution

S-Adenosylmethionine decarboxylase (SAMDC; EC 4.1.1.50) is a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of the polyamines spermidine and spermine from putrescine and its activity is rate limiting in this pathway. Transgenic potato (Solanum tuberosum L. cv. Desiree) plants containing both sense and antisense SAMDC constructs driven by the tuber-specific patatin promoter have been generated and analysed. In sense transformants, developing tubers expressed higher steady-state levels of the SAMDC-specific transcript, had higher levels of SAMDC activity and contained significantly higher levels of spermidine than vector-transformed controls. Additionally, there was a significant shift in tuber size distribution with larger numbers of smaller tubers but no overall change in tuber yield. In developing tubers from the antisense transformed lines, there was a decrease in SAMDC transcript level, SAMDC activity and total polyamine levels. However, no obvious phenotypic effect was detected in the tuberisation physiology of the antisense lines.

Antisense raf oligodeoxyribonucleotide is a radiosensitizer in vivo

Raf-1, a cytosolic protein serine/threonine kinase, plays important roles in cell growth, proliferation, transformation, and cell survival. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the radiotherapeutic efficacy of a fully phosphorothioated and well-characterized antisense raf oligodeoxyribonucleotide (ODN) corresponding to the 3'-untranslated region of human c-raf-1 mRNA (ISIS 5132/5132). Using our recently developed liposome encapsulation of ODN approach, we first compared the pharmacokinetic parameters of a liposomal formulation of 5132 (LE-5132) and 5132. The peak plasma concentrations 5 minutes after ODN administrations (30 mg/kg i.v.) were 28.5 microg/ml and 13.5 microg/ml for LE-5132 and 5132, respectively. The decrease in plasma concentration of LE-5132 and 5132 followed a biexponential pattern, with initial distribution half-lives (t1/2alpha) of 34.8 minutes and 21.6 minutes, respectively. The terminal half-lives (t1/2beta) with LE-5132 and 5132 were 14.5 hours and 4.3 hours, respectively. The area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) was 5.8 times higher with LE-5132 than with 5132. Significantly higher intact ODN levels could be measured in most organs within 48 hours of administration of LE-5132 compared with 5132 (liver 18.4-fold, spleen, 31-fold, heart 3-fold, lungs 1.5-fold). In kidneys, the level was lower with LE-5132 (0.77-fold). LE-5132 composition, unlike 5132, did not affect clotting time in vitro. Significant decline in the level of Raf-1 protein was observed in vitro in relatively radioresistant human laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma cells (SQ-20B) treated with LE-5132 compared with SQ-20B cells treated with equimolar concentration of 5132 or liposome-encapsulated mismatched 5132 (0.5 microM LE-5132, 71.3%+/-22.5%; 1.0 microM LE-5132, 79.6%+/-16.7%). In addition, LE-5132 appeared to be a more potent antitumor compound than 5132 (p < 0.001). These data established the suitability of LE-5132 for in vivo radiotherapeutic efficacy studies. Intravenous administration of LE-5132 into SQ-20B tumor-bearing athymic mice inhibited Raf-1 expression in tumor tissue compared with blank liposome-treated or untreated control groups. LE-5132 or ionizing radiation (IR) treatment alone caused significant but transient inhibition of SQ-20B tumor growth but not tumor regression. Remarkably, a combination of LE-5132 and IR treatments led to significant and sustained tumor regression for at least 27 days after the last treatment (< 0.001). Histopathologic examination of tumor samples revealed a significant proportion of cells containing fragmented chromatin in the LE-5132 + IR treatment group as compared with single agent and untreated control groups. These in vivo data support the notion that Raf-1 has proliferative and survival functions and advance the scientific and technologic bases for the use of antisense raf ODN in the management of radioresistant malignancies.

Health care for women with learning disabilities

This article describes a research project exploring the basic health education ow women with learning disabilities. It demonstrated that preventive and well-woman needs were not being met. In response a joint venture was developed between a community learning disabilities team and local well woman and family planning services. The article describes how an informal and accessible clinic was established for women with learning disabilities.

Raising airway resistance in laryngectomees increases tissue oxygen saturation

The physiological airflow resistance from the anterior nares to the upper trachea has recently been documented. This resistance is thought to be important in preventing alveolar collapse and in maintaining the optimum lung ventilation: perfusion ratio. This resistance is lost in laryngectomees who may have a subsequent decline in lung function and arterial oxygen saturation. A stoma filter with a resistance approximating to that of the normal upper airway has been developed and laryngectomees who wear this device demonstrate a rapid increase in tissue oxygen saturation (median increase: 1.4 kPa, P = 0.0087) without significantly altering tissue carbon dioxide saturation. This finding will have a major impact on the future rehabilitation of laryngectomees and those with a temporary tracheostomy.

Sucrolytic Enzyme Activities in Cotyledons of the Faba Bean (Developmental Changes and Purification of Alkaline Invertase)

In terms of maximum extractable catalytic activity, sucrose synthase is the predominant sucrolytic enzyme in developing cotyledons of faba bean (Vicia faba L.). Although acid invertase activity is extremely low, there is significant activity of alkaline invertase, the majority of which is extractable only with high concentrations of NaCl. Calculations of potential activity in vivo indicate that alkaline invertase is the predominant sucrolytic enzyme from 50 days after anthesis onward. However, at almost all stages of cotyledon development analyzed, the maximum extractable catalytic activities of both enzymes is in excess of the actual rate of starch deposition. Two forms of alkaline invertase were identified in developing cotyledons. The major form has been purified to homogeneity, and antibodies have been raised against it. The native protein has a molecular mass of about 238 [plus or minus] 4.5 kD. It is apparently a homotetramer (subunit molecular mass 53.4 [plus or minus] 0.9 kD). The enzyme has a pH optimum of 7.4, an isoelectric point of 5.2, and a Km[sucrose] of 10 mM and is inhibited by Tris (50% inhibition at 5 mM) and fructose (30% inhibition at 10 mM). Bean alkaline invertase is a [beta]-fructofuranosidase with no significant activity against raffinose, stachyose, trehalose, maltose, or lactose.

Computerized tomography of acute, tender peritonsillar swellings

A randomized trial involving 40 consecutive patients with an acute painful peritonsillar swelling was set up to determine if an enhanced computerized neck tomogram was cost-effective or improved patient management. Each patient was placed into one of two groups. The first group had enhanced computerized tomography (CT) which allowed precise identification of a quinsy and this was aspirated with an 18G needle aspiration at the site directed by the scan. The second group of patients had 3-point permucosal 18G needle aspirations. A proportion of patients from each group, but primarily from the second, required immediate or delayed admission to hospital after aspiration, for persistent or recurrent symptoms. Costing each groups treatment, including the scan and hospitalization on intravenous antibiotics, we conclude that CT scanning prevents the morbidity associated with unsuccessful attempts at drainage in the patient with cellulitis and ensures complete drainage of pus, thereby optimizing patient treatment and it is cost-effective.

Long-term sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim in Wegener's granulomatosis

Since 1985, a number of reports have highlighted the effectiveness of a short course of sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim as an adjuvant to immunosuppressive drugs in the treatment of Wegener's granulomatosis. We report our experience with long-term sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim therapy in patients with Wegener's granulomatosis. We describe recent advances in the pathogenesis of Wegener's granulomatosis, suggest a complementary mechanism of action of sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim, and advocate long-term sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim therapy as a treatment option in Wegener's granulomatosis.

Metastatic cervical lymph nodes: general practitioner referral patterns

Premature excision biopsy of a cervical lymph node infiltrated by metastatic carcinoma may compromise patient survival since it is associated with an increased incidence of local wound recurrence and distant metastases. Seventy per cent of such patients have an identifiable head and neck primary, obviating the need for an excision biopsy. It is important therefore that they are examined by surgeons who are experienced in inspecting the upper aerodigestive tract and who are competent in performing definitive head and neck surgery. A questionnaire sent to all general practitioners of an Inner London and a District Health Authority revealed that only 18% and 33% respectively referred patients who they suspected of having a metastatic neck node to a department with an experienced head and neck surgeon. We conclude that greater emphasis on the correct management of these patients at both an undergraduate and postgraduate level may encourage subsequent generations of general practitioners to review their referral patterns.

The Pope Wick as a myringoplasty ear canal dressing

A study of 50 consecutive patients undergoing myringoplasty using a Merocel Sponge Pope Ear wick as an ear canal dressing showed the wick to be complication free with potential advantages over the time honoured Bismuth Iodoform Paraffin Paste dressing.

Massive haemorrhage from the vallecula: a diagnostic difficulty. Case report

A case is presented of massive bleeding from a vessel in the vallecula. This was confused with haemoptysis and haematemesis. The bleeding may have resulted from trauma to the vessel during intubation for emergency surgery. 25 units of blood were transfused before the site of the bleeding was identified and controlled by diathermy coagulation.

FDA fast-tracking of pet population control drugs

Theriogenologists have been studying estrus prevention and termination of pregnancy in dogs for at least 2 decades. However, drugs approved for estrus suppression are few. No dog or cat abortifacients or male dog and cat sterilants have been approved. Marketed drugs with alternate indications that have antiestrus and antihormonal activity might be good candidates for study after obtaining an INAD from FDA. With the support of the original drug sponsor or manufacturer and appropriate safety and effectiveness studies, these products may be studied for additional label claims. New (not previously approved) drugs additionally need detailed information regarding the synthesis and manufacturing controls. Drugs offering substantial benefit over existing therapeutics may be eligible for expedited review. Prior to starting any studies in this area, clinical investigators and sponsors should communicate with FDA, an INAD must be granted, and the protocol submitted for evaluation. Approvability is evaluated after establishment of safety and effectiveness in clinical field trials.

Biopsy of neck lumps in adults should be preceded by examination of the upper aerodigestive tract

Premature biopsy of a potentially malignant neck node compromises patient survival. Despite documented evidence that biopsy of a malignant neck mass prior to a search for a primary source will increase the incidence of regional recurrence and distance metastasis, patients are often referred for head and neck assessment having already had a positive neck node biopsy. We maintain that biopsy of an asymmetrically enlarged cervical lymph node in an adult should be preceded by full upper aerodigestive tract evaluation to include indirect laryngoscopy, a high resolution computed tomography scan and panendoscopy with free field biopsy.

Severe tissue destruction in the ear caused by alkaline button batteries

Button batteries spontaneously leak corrosive electrolyte solution on exposure to moisture. Tissue in contact with such solution will undergo liquefaction necrosis. Three cases of skin, bone and tympanic membrane necrosis caused by a leaking button battery lodged in the external auditory meatus are described.

Button batteries in the ear, nose and cervical esophagus: a destructive foreign body

Button batteries spontaneously leak alkaline electrolyte solution on exposure to moisture, causing liquefaction necrosis of adjacent tissue. We describe two cases in which a button battery in the external auditory meatus caused skin, bone and tympanic membrane necrosis. Review of the world literature on button batteries acting as foreign bodies reveals lower motor neurone facial nerve palsy, nasal septal perforation and fatal esophago-aortic fistula as among the ENT complications. Batteries lodged in these sites must be removed as a matter of the utmost urgency.

Aspiration of middle ear effusions prior to grommet insertion an etiological factor in tympanosclerosis

Fifty-five children with bilateral middle ear effusions were entered into a prospective randomized double blind trial to determine whether aspiration of middle ear effusions prior to ventilation tube insertion influences ventilation tube extrusion time or the development of tympanosclerosis. Following myringotomy, aspiration of the left or right ear only was performed randomly prior to ventilation tube insertion. The tympanic membranes were inspected six-monthly to determine whether ventilation tube extrusion had occurred, and at 24 months after surgery for the presence of tympanosclerosis. Results showed no significant difference in extrusion time between aspirated and non-aspirated ears. Aspiration was found to be a factor in the development of tympanosclerosis. We conclude that routine aspiration of the middle ear effusion prior to ventilation tube insertion is associated with an increased risk of tympanosclerosis.

Dose-volume and complication in interstitial implants for breast carcinoma

A common radiotherapeutic technique for treating breast cancer is the combination of external beam radiation with an interstitial iridium-192 boost. When smaller tumors (T1 and T2) are treated using this technique, the soft tissue complication rate is small. However, with treatment of more advanced stages of disease, where large volumes of breast tissue must be treated to high radiation doses, the incidence of complication increases. This paper investigates the dose and volume relationships for breast tissue treated by interstitial technique and correlates this to the risk of soft tissue radiation injury. A method of analysis of interstitial radiation implants suitable for intra- or inter-institutional clinical evaluations is offered. The records of 111 patients treated at Georgetown University Hospital, were retrospectively analyzed and the five who had experienced radiation-related complications were compared to 51 randomly selected patients experiencing no complications. The volumes of tissue enclosed by selected isodose surfaces were calculated and used to determine a relationship between these dose-volumes and the probability of complication. The mean volume at specified dose levels between 10 Gy and 50 Gy was significantly higher (p less than .05) for the patients developing complications than those in whom no complications were seen. Using the 20 Gy isodose surface as defining our usual treated volume, a complication probability versus dose-volume curve was developed using a linear logistic model. The curve fitted the data closely (p less than .006) suggesting that, for our cases, the calculated treatment volume (within the 20 Gy isodose surface) can be used to effectively separate patients into groups that have different probabilities of developing complications. We propose this method as a basis for specification of dose and volume which can be used for clinical risk assessment, and for intra- and inter-institutional comparison.

Portal vein perfusion of the isolated rat liver: some markers of hyperthermic liver damage

The cytotoxic effects of hyperthermia on tumours are readily measured. Parameters of injury to normal tissues are needed to evaluate therapeutic potential. Fifty-five isolated rat livers were perfused in vitro for 180 min in order to determine parameters of hyperthermic injury. During this period they were heated for 1 h at temperatures ranging from 37 degrees to 45 degrees and then assessed for evidence of hyperthermic injury. The most critical indicator of hyperthermic injury was sustained depression of bile production. Bile secretion decreased by 80% after heating at temperatures above 42 degrees. Aspartate amino transferase (AST) release increased significantly at temperatures of 42 degrees and above. Potassium and variable amounts of glucose were released into the medium during heating, reflecting temporary changes in metabolism at high temperatures.

Ganglioneuroma, heterochromia iridis, and Horner's syndrome

A child with mediastinal and supraclavicular ganglioneuroma, heterochromia iridis, and Horner's syndrome is described. The authors postulate that the thoracic neoplasm originated as a congenital neuroblastoma with metastasis to the supraclavicular lymph nodes and subsequent benign transformation, and that the ocular abnormalities resulted from sympathetic ganglion injury by the tumor in infancy. This seems to be the first published report of such ocular abnormalities associated with mediastinal ganglioneuroma.