bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychological and somatic sequelae of traumatic vaginal delivery: A literature review
Authors: Skinner Elizabeth M. , Dietz Hans P.
Published: December 2014

This literature review seeks to examine current knowledge of birth trauma associated with major pelvic floor dysfunction by interpreting and critically appraising existing published material. A search of the literature for peer reviewed journal articles was conducted between September and December 2013 of the following databases: PubMed; Wiley Online;MEDLINE; OvidSP; ScienceDirect;MDConsult Australia; Biomed Central; Sage; Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Unpublished interviews from mothers who attended two tertiary teaching hospitals in Sydney, Australia and international Internet blogs/websites were also utilised. Maternal birth trauma seems to be a common cause of pelvic floor dysfunction. Women who have sustained birth trauma to the levator ani muscle or the anal sphincters are often injured more seriously than generally believed. There often is a substantial latency between trauma and the manifestation of symptoms. Urinary and faecal incontinence, prolapse and sexual dysfunction are commonly seen as too embarrassing to discuss with clinicians, and frequently, new mothers have inaccurate recollections of obstetric procedures that occurred without much explanation or explicit consent. Moreover, somatic trauma may contribute to psychological trauma and post‐traumatic stress disorder. The link between somatic and psychological trauma is poorly understood.
Advances in receptor conformation research: the quest for functionally selective conformations focusing on the β2‐adrenoceptor
Authors: Woo Anthony Yiu‐Ho , Song Ying , Zhu Weizhong , Xiao Rui‐Ping
Published: December 2014

Seven‐transmembrane receptors, also called GPCRs, represent the largest class of drug targets. Upon ligand binding, a GPCR undergoes conformational rearrangement and thereby changes its interaction with effector proteins including the cognate G‐proteins and the multifunctional adaptor proteins, β‐arrestins. These proteins, by initiating distinct signal transduction mechanisms, mediate one or several functional responses. Recently, the concept of ligand‐directed GPCR signalling, also called functional selectivity or biased agonism, has been proposed to explain the phenomenon that chemically diverse ligands exhibit different efficacies towards the different signalling pathways of a single GPCR, and thereby act as functionally selective or ‘biased’ ligands. Current concepts support the notion that ligand‐specific GPCR conformations are the basis of ligand‐directed signalling. Multiple studies using fluorescence spectroscopy, X‐ray crystallography, mass spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, single‐molecule force spectroscopy and other techniques have provided the evidence to support this notion. It is anticipated that these techniques will ultimately help elucidate the structural basis of ligand‐directed GPCR signalling at a precision meaningful for structure‐based drug design and how a specific ligand molecular structure induces a unique receptor conformation leading to biased signalling. In this review, we will summarize recent advances in experimental techniques applied in the study of functionally selective GPCR conformations and breakthrough data obtained in these studies particularly those of the β2‐adrenoceptor.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Chinese Innovation in Cardiovascular Drug Discovery. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2015.172.issue-23
Novel immunosuppressive agent caerulomycin A exerts its effect by depleting cellular iron content
Authors: Kaur Suneet , Srivastava Gautam , Sharma Amar Nath , Jolly Ravinder S
Published: December 2014

Background and Purpose

Recently, we have described the use of caerulomycin A (CaeA) as a potent novel immunosuppressive agent. Immunosuppressive drugs are crucial for long‐term graft survival following organ transplantation and treatment of autoimmune diseases, inflammatory disorders, hypersensitivity to allergens, etc. The objective of this study was to identify cellular targets of CaeA and decipher its mechanism of action.

Experimental Approach

Jurkat cells were treated with CaeA and cellular iron content, iron uptake/release, DNA content and deoxyribonucleoside triphosphate pool determined. Activation of MAPKs; expression level of transferrin receptor 1, ferritin and cell cycle control molecules; reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cell viability were measured using Western blotting, qRT‐PCR or flow cytometry.

Key Results

CaeA caused intracellular iron depletion by reducing its uptake and increasing its release by cells. CaeA caused cell cycle arrest by (i) inhibiting ribonucleotide reductase (RNR) enzyme, which catalyses the rate‐limiting step in the synthesis of DNA; (ii) stimulating MAPKs signalling transduction pathways that play an important role in cell growth, proliferation and differentiation; and (iii) by targeting cell cycle control molecules such as cyclin D1, cyclin‐dependent kinase 4 and p21CIP1/WAF1. The effect of CaeA on cell proliferation was reversible.

Conclusions and Implications

CaeA exerts its immunosuppressive effect by targeting iron. The effect is reversible, which makes CaeA an attractive candidate for development as a potent immunosuppressive drug, but also indicates that iron chelation can be used as a rationale approach to selectively suppress the immune system, because compared with normal cells, rapidly proliferating cells require a higher utilization of iron.
Dietary and Temporal Niche Differentiation in Tropical Ants—Can They Explain Local Ant Coexistence?
Authors: Houadria Mickal , Salas‐Lopez Alex , Orivel Jérôme , Blüthgen Nico , Menzel Florian
Published: December 2014

How species with similar ecological requirements avoid competitive exclusion remains contentious, especially in the species‐rich tropics. Niche differentiation has been proposed as a major mechanism for species coexistence. However, different niche dimensions must be studied simultaneously to assess their combined effects on diversity and composition of a community. In most terrestrial ecosystems, ants are among the most abundant and ubiquitous animals. Since they display direct, aggressive competition and often competitively displace subordinate species from resources, niche differentiation may be especially relevant among ants. We studied temporal and trophic niche differentiation in a ground ant community in a forest fragment in French Guiana. Different baits were presented during day and night to assess the temporal and dietary niches of the local species. They represented natural food resources such as sugars, carrion, excrements, seeds, and live prey. In addition, pitfalls provided a background measure of ant diversity. The communities attracted to the different baits significantly differed from each other, and even less attractive baits yielded additional species. We detected species specialized on living grasshoppers, sucrose, seeds, or dead insects. Community‐level differences between day and night were larger than those between baits, and many species were temporally specialized. In contrast to commonness, foraging efficiency of species was correlated to food specialization. We conclude that many ant species occupy different temporal or dietary niches. However, for many generalized species, the dietary, and temporal niche differentiation brought forward through our sampling effort, cannot alone explain their coexistence.
Foliar Extrafloral Nectar of Humboldtia brunonis (Fabaceae), a Paleotropic Ant‐plant, is Richer than Phloem Sap and More Attractive than Honeydew
Authors: Chanam Joyshree , Kasinathan Srinivasan , Pramanik Gautam K. , Jagdeesh Amaraja , Joshi Kanchan A. , Borges Renee M.
Published: December 2014

The ant‐plant Humboldtia brunonis secretes extrafloral nectar (EFN) despite the lack of antiherbivore protection from most ants. EFN was richer in composition than phloem sap and honeydew from untended Hemiptera on the plant, suggesting that EFN could potentially distract ants from honeydew, since ants rarely tended Hemiptera on this plant.
Analysing and reporting UK CAMHS outcomes: an application of funnel plots
Authors: Fugard Andrew J. B. , Stapley Emily , Ford Tamsin , Law Duncan , Wolpert Miranda , York Ann
Published: December 2014

Background

Patient‐reported outcomes measures are increasingly being used in child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS). League tables are a common way of comparing organizations across health and education but have limitations that are not well known in CAMHS.

Method

Parent‐rated Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) outcomes data from 15,771 episodes of care across 51 UK CAMHS were analysed using funnel plots, an alternative to league tables.

Results

While most services were indistinguishable from the national average there was evidence of heterogeneous outcomes and seven services had outcomes below 99.9% limits for SDQ added‐value scores.

Conclusions

Funnel plots are powerful tools for navigating national data and can help prompt investigations using clinical theory and local service context. Examples are provided of factors to consider in these investigations. We argue that analyses of the local context are central to the valid application of funnel plots.
Middle–Class Mexican Americans, Neighborhood Affect, and Redevelopment in Houston's Northside Barrio
Authors: Korver–Glenn Elizabeth
Published: December 2014

Prior research has illuminated the destructive impact of redevelopment in racially marginalized U.S. barrios, but we know little about middle–class Mexican Americans’ perceptions of barrio redevelopment, why they may perceive redevelopment in different ways, and what the implications of their perceptions are. Using ethnographic– and interview–based methods, I ask how middle–class Mexican Americans in Houston's Northside barrio perceive recent redevelopment efforts underway in the neighborhood. I also ask why respondents perceive redevelopment in different ways, with some viewing redevelopment as progress and others viewing it as destructive. Not finding systematic differences across categories of generation–since–immigration, race, residence, class, or class background, I argue respondents’ sentimental and behavioral attachment to barrio places, institutions, people, and culture is the best explanation for their differing perceptions of redevelopment. Finally, I ask what the implications of their perceptions may be, as a fractured middle–class Mexican American response may facilitate destructive redevelopment processes in the future.
Simulated colonoscopy training using a low‐cost physical model improves responsiveness of surgery interns
Authors: Buscaglia J. M. , Fakhoury J. , Loyal J. , Denoya P. I. , Kazi E. , Stein S. A. , Scriven R. , Bergamaschi R.
Published: December 2014

Aim

Surgery residents are required to become proficient in colonoscopy before completing training. The aim of this study was to evaluate the responsiveness of surgery interns to simulated colonoscopy training.

Method

Interns, defined as postgraduate year 1 residents without exposure to endoscopy, underwent training in a physical model including colonoscopy, synthetic anatomy trays with luminal tattoos and a hybrid simulator. After baseline testing and mentored training, final testing was performed using five predetermined proficiency criteria. Content‐valid metrics defined by the extent of departure from clinical reality were evaluated by two blinded assessors. Responsiveness was defined as change in performance over time and assessed comparing baseline testing with nonmentored final testing.

Results

Twelve interns (eight male, mean age 26, 80% right‐handed) performed 48 colonoscopies each over 1 year. Improvement was seen in the overall procedure time (24 min 46 s vs 20 min 54 s; P = 0.03), passing the splenic flexure (20 min 33 s vs 10 min 45 s; P = 0.007), passing the hepatic flexure (23 min 31 s vs 12 min 45 s; P = 0.003), caecal intubation time (23 min 38 s vs 13 min 26 s; P = 0.008), the duration of loss of view of the lumen (75% vs 8.3%; P = 0.023), incomplete colonoscopy (100% vs 33.3%; P = 0.042), colonoscope withdrawal < 6 min (16.7% vs 8.3%; P = 0.052). Tattoo identification time (9 min 16 s vs 12 min 25 s; P = 0.50), colon looped time (2 min 12 s vs 1 min 45 s; P = 0.50) and rate of colon perforation (8.3% vs 8.3%; P = 1) remained unchanged. Interrater reliability was 1.0 for all measures.

Conclusion

Simulated colonoscopy training in a low‐cost physical model improved the performance of surgery interns with decreased procedure time, increased rates of complete colonoscopy and appropriate scope withdrawal.
The Agency Problem, Financial Performance and Corruption: Country, Industry and Firm Level Perspectives
Authors: Donadelli Michael , Fasan Marco , Magnanelli Barbara Sveva
Published: December 2014

This paper studies the relationship between the agency problem, financial performance and corruption from country, industry and firm level perspectives. First, we observe that companies operating in countries with a high level of corruption tend to display relatively low returns. Second, in an industry‐by‐industry context, we find that the negative relationship between corruption and average stock returns is stronger in specific industries, which we define as ‘corruption sensitive’. Third, at the firm level, we show that agency problems are exacerbated in corruption‐sensitive industries. Our study builds on the existing literature in three main areas. First, it proposes a novel macro‐based approach aimed at identifying corruption‐sensitive industries. Second, it provides evidence supporting that corruption exacerbates agency conflicts. Third, it provides evidence on the generalizability of standard corporate governance predictions to companies operating in corruption‐sensitive industries.
Ecology and distribution of the Southeast Asian invasive liana Kudzu, Pueraria lobata (Fabaceae), in Southern Switzerland
Authors: Gigon A. , Pron S. , Buholzer S.
Published: December 2014

Pueraria lobata, Kudzu, is a perennial liana native in temperate to tropical East Asia. Introduced mainly as an ornamental plant into many (sub)tropical regions, and as a forage crop in the South‐Eastern USA, it has spread vegetatively into adjacent forests and grasslands and has also been dispersed with garden waste. The objectives of this paper are: (i) to assess whether the ecology of P. lobata in Southern Switzerland is similar to that in the South‐Eastern USA, where it causes great damage; (ii) to predict its further spread in Southern Switzerland. In Switzerland it already occurs in 32 sites covering 16 200 m2; the shoots grow ≤ 26 cm per day and ≤ 11 m per year, forming ≤ 2 m thick mats. P. lobata infested sites contain about half as many plant species as similar sites without it. This paper shows that the ecology of P. lobata in Southern Switzerland is similar to that described for the USA. The broad climatic requirements of the species suggest that it could establish in many regions of Southern and Central Europe. However, it is not expected to spread on a large scale in Switzerland because there appears to be no establishment from seed and because its stands are always near settlements and thus mostly controlled.
Weight distribution in container loading: a case study
Authors: Costa Maria da Graça , Captivo Maria Eugénia
Published: December 2014

This work addresses a real‐world problem proposed by a Portuguese company. Every day this company needs to define a plan to pack a set of boxes onto a single truck. The truck will have to make as many trips as necessary to deliver the entire set of boxes. In the literature, this is known as the bin‐packing problem. As this is a real‐world application, practical constraints, such as load stability and box orientation constraints, weight limit of the truck, and uniform distribution of weight inside the truck, should be ensured. To solve this problem, we propose a constructive heuristic based on a layer arrangement approach that comprises a corner selection strategy for placing the boxes. Some experiments are conducted with the company's data, and the quality of the solutions is evaluated regarding the occupancy rates and distribution of the cargo weight inside the truck.
Accentuating the rank positions in an agreement index with reference to a consensus order
Authors: Leyva López Juan C. , Alvarez Carrillo Pavel A.
Published: December 2014

In this paper, we propose an index that measures the agreement level between an individual opinion and a collective opinion when both are expressed by rankings of a set of alternatives. This index constitutes an interesting weighted version of the well‐known Kendall's ranks correlation index. The originality of the proposed index arises from the fact that it accounts for the relevance of the specific position of the alternatives in an individual order to quantify the agreement level of the individual order with respect to a collective temporary order. The paper also introduces a new consensus measure model. The core of the consensus model is the proposed agreement index. We present an illustrative example to describe the consensus process. We can obtain a faster convergence to a consensus solution using this new index compared to Kendall's index.
Determination of the Activation Energy and Master Sintering Curve for NiO/YSZ Composite Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Anodes
Authors: Rayner Addison J. , Clemmer Ryan M. C. , Corbin Stephen F.
Published: December 2014

Master sintering curves (MSCs) were constructed for tape cast NiO, YSZ and NiO/YSZ composite materials using apparent activation energies obtained through dilatometry experiments. A rule of mixtures approach was demonstrated to be a useful analysis tool in understanding the activation energy of the NiO/YSZ composites since NiO and YSZ do not affect the sintering of the other phase. Prediction of the 48 vol% NiO composite was less accurate because of competing sintering modes near the percolation threshold.
Phylogeography of the subterranean rodent Ctenomys torquatus: an evaluation of the riverine barrier hypothesis
Authors: Roratto Paula Angélica , Fernandes Fabiano Araújo , de Freitas Thales R. O.
Published: December 2014

Aim

Subterranean rodents of the genus Ctenomys are widespread in open habitats; the collared tuco‐tuco, C. torquatus, has a wide range crossed by large water‐courses. Based on a phylogeographical approach to investigate the riverine barrier hypothesis, we evaluated the strength of a river as a barrier and characterized the effect of large rivers in structuring distinct populations of the collared tuco‐tuco.

Location

Grasslands of southern Brazil.

Methods

Sampling included 294 individuals from 33 localities throughout the geographical range of C. torquatus, especially around the main rivers. Phylogeographical patterns were estimated through two mitochondrial DNA sequences (control region and COI). Additionally, 22 microsatellite loci were surveyed to estimate the effect of rivers on population divergence through the FST index of genetic differentiation and AMOVAs. Spatial autocorrelation analyses were performed for both molecular markers. Molecular rates of change for mitochondrial DNA were estimated using fossil records and applied to Bayesian demographic analysis to test the relationship with the river geological data.

Results

Molecular‐clock analysis estimated the time to most recent common ancestor (TMRCA) to be c. 200 kyr and indicated a pattern of recent demographic expansion for C. torquatus. Fu's FS neutrality test was significant and negative (−13.7). High and significant FST and AMOVA among‐population comparisons (FSC) revealed highly differentiated populations, although no AMOVA groupings considering rivers as a segregating factor were significant. Spatial autocorrelation analysis revealed that isolation by distance was detected over approximately 200 km.

Main conclusions

The effect of the river was not proportionally larger from the headwaters to the mouth, and no population differentiation was observed after the later events of dispersal over the river or the formation of a water channel. This finding could result from the recent history of the occupation of C. torquatus in that region, combined with a dry Pleistocene climate and lower river levels.
S‐allyl cysteine alleviates nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug‐induced gastric mucosal damages by increasing cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibition, heme oxygenase‐1 induction, and histone deacetylation inhibition
Authors: Park Jong‐Min , Han Young‐Min , Kangwan Napapan , Lee Soo‐Yeon , Jung Mi‐Kyoung , Kim Eun‐Hee , Hahm Ki‐Baik
Published: December 2014

Background and Aim

Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), the most highly prescribed drugs in the world for the treatment of pain, inflammation, and fever, are associated with gastric mucosal damages including ulcer directly or indirectly. This study was aimed to document the preventive effects of an organosulfur constituent of garlic, S‐allyl cysteine (SAC), against NSAIDs‐induced gastric damages, as well the elucidation of its pharmacological actions, such as anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidative, and cytoprotective actions.

Methods

Different doses of SAC were administrated intragastrically before the indomethacin administration. After killing, in addition to gross and pathological evaluations of ulcer, the expressions of inflammatory mediators, including cyclooxygenase‐2, prostaglandin E2, IL‐1β, tumor necrosis factor‐α, IL‐6, and anti‐oxidant capacity, were analyzed by Western blot analysis or ELISA, respectively. Transferase deoxytidyl uridine end labeling assay, periodic acid and Schiff staining, F4/80 staining, and CD31 staining were compared among doses of SAC. Detailed documentation of in vitro biological actions of SAC, including NF‐κB, histone deacetylator inhibition, phase 2 enzyme, and MAPKs, was performed.

Results

SAC was very effective in preventing indomethacin‐induced gastric damages in a low dose through significant decreases in macrophage infiltration as well as restorative action. Indomethacin‐induced expressions of inflammatory mediators were all significantly attenuated with SAC in accordance with histone deacetylator inhibition. In addition, SAC significantly increased the total anti‐oxidant concentration and mucus secretion, and allows for a significant induction of HO‐1. However, these preventive effects of SAC were dependent on dosage of SAC; higher dose above 10 μM paradoxically aggravated NSAID‐induced inflammation.

Conclusion

Synthetic SAC can be promising therapeutics agent to provide potent anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidative, and mucosa protective effects against NSAID‐induced damages.
Comparison of teprenone and famotidine against gastroduodenal mucosal damage in patients taking low‐dose aspirin
Authors: Takeuchi Toshihisa , Ota Kazuhiro , Harada Satoshi , Kojima Yuichi , Inoue Takuya , Iwakiri Ryuichi , Sakata Yasuhisa , Fujimoto Kazuma , Fujita Tsuyoshi , Azuma Takeshi , Higuchi Kazuhide
Published: December 2014

Background and Aim

Proton‐pump inhibitors are known to be effective in the treatment and prevention of ulcers related to low‐dose aspirin (LDA), but few reports address H2‐receptor antagonists (H2RAs) and gastroprotective agents (GPs). This study was intended to compare the therapeutic effects of an H2RA and a GP against gastroduodenal mucosal injuries in patients taking LDA.

Methods

The subjects consisted of patients requiring continuous LDA treatment, in whom no peptic ulcer was found on endoscopy at enrollment. The patients were randomized to either famotidine 20 mg/day (group F) or teprenone 150 mg/day (group T). The study medication was administered for 12 weeks. The patients underwent endoscopy after administration of the study medication in order to obtain a Lanza score.

Results

A total of 66 patients (38 in group F, 28 in group T) were included in the efficacy analysis population. The Lanza score changed as follows: in group F, it improved significantly, from 0.89 ± 1.03 (mean ± standard deviation) before medication to 0.39 ± 0.75 after medication (P = 0.006); in group T, no significant difference was observed: 0.75 ± 0.93 before medication and 0.68 ± 0.82 after medication.

Conclusion

Famotidine is better than teprenone in terms of reducing the number of the erosions under use of LDA.
Alteration of angiogenesis in Helicobacter heilmannii‐induced mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma: Interaction with c‐Met and hepatocyte growth factor
Authors: Nakamura Masahiko , Takahashi Tetsufumi , Matsui Hidenori , Baniwa Yuko , Takahashi Shinichi , Murayama Somay Y , Serizawa Hiroshi , Suzuki Hidekazu , Hibi Toshifumi
Published: December 2014

Background and Aim

The hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c‐Met pathway has attracted attention in the formation of malignant tumors, as HGF secreted from the microcirculatory components as well as residing macrophages has been suggested to act on the c‐Met receptors of cancer cells to decrease apoptosis and increase proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. The present study was undertaken to elucidate the interaction of the gastric, hepatic, and pulmonary mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma induced by Helicobacter heilmannii infection with c‐Met and HGF.

Methods

C57BL/6 female mice, infected with H. heilmannii for 3 months were used. The localization of the HGF, c‐Met, and HGF activator immunoreactivities was observed by the indirect immunohistochemical methods. In addition, the effect of c‐Met antibody and c‐Met inhibitor, PHA‐665752, was also investigated.

Results

c‐Met immunoreactivity was found in the lymphocytes composing the MALT lymphoma, and HGF immunoreactivity was recognized mostly in the endothelial cells and macrophages in the MALT lymphoma. HGFA was localized on mesenchymal cells other than the lymphocytes. The administration of the antibody against c‐Met or the c‐Met inhibitor to the infected mice induced the significant suppression of hepatic and pulmonary MALT lymphoma, while the gastric MALT lymphoma showed only a tendency to decrease in size, while the active caspase 3 positive cells markedly decreased in the gastric, hepatic, and pulmonary MALT lymphoma after the treatment with the c‐Met antibody or the c‐Met antagonist.

Conclusions

HGF and c‐Met pathway were suggested to contribute to the lymphomagenesis in the MALT lymphoma after H. heilmannii infection.
Changes in the first line Helicobacter pylori eradication rates using the triple therapy–a multicenter study in the Tokyo metropolitan area (Tokyo Helicobacter pylori study group)
Authors: Kawai Takashi , Takahashi Shin'ichi , Suzuki Hidekazu , Sasaki Hitoshi , Nagahara Akihito , Asaoka Daisuke , Matsuhisa Takeshi , Masaoaka Tatsuhiro , Nishizawa Toshihiro , Suzuki Masayuki , Ito Masayoshi , Kurihara Naoto , Omata Fumio , Mizuno Shigeaki , Torii Akira , Kawakami Kohei , Ohkusa Toshifumi , Tokunaga Kengo , Mine Tetsuya , Sakaki Nobuhiro
Published: December 2014

Background and Aim

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is a strong risk factor for the development of gastric cancer. In 2013, the Japanese government approved H. pylori eradication therapy in patients with chronic gastritis as well as peptic ulcer. However, the continuing decline in eradication rates for first‐line H. pylori eradication therapies is an urgent problem. In this study, we investigated changes in the first‐line eradication rate from 2001 to 2010.

Methods

Eradication rates for 7‐day triple therapy [proton pump inhibitor (rabeprazole 20 mg, lansoprazole 60 mg, or omeprazole 40 mg) + amoxicillin 1500 mg + clarithromycin (CAM) 400 or 800 mg, daily] were collated from 14 hospitals in the Tokyo metropolitan area. The urea breath test was used for the evaluation of eradication. The cut‐off value was less than 2.5%.

Results

The yearly eradication rates (intention to treat/per protocol) were 78.5/79.5% (2001, n = 242), 71.2%/72.9% (2002, n = 208), 67.8%/70.5% (2003, n = 183), 75.6%/84.6% (2004, n = 131), 56.4%/70.5% (2005, n = 114), 70.5%/75.8% (2006, n = 271), 67.4%/82.0% (2007,n = 135), 64.0%/76.3% (2008, n = 261), 60.5%/74.3% (2009, n = 329), and 66.5%/78.8% (2010, n = 370), respectively. Examination of eradication rates according to CAM dosage revealed an eradication rate of 65.6% (383/584) for CAM 400 mg daily, and 68.5% (1124/1642) for CAM 800 mg daily, with no significant difference seen between dosages.

Conclusion

In recent years, eradication rates for first‐line triple therapy have obviously decreased, but no noticeable decrease has occurred after 2001.
Initial clinical trial of a novel hemostat, TDM‐621, in the endoscopic treatments of the gastric tumors
Authors: Yoshida Masashi , Goto Naoki , Kawaguchi Minoru , Koyama Hidehiko , Kuroda Junko , Kitahora Tetsuji , Iwasaki Hiroyuki , Suzuki Shinji , Kataoka Mikinori , Takashi Fujii , Kitajima Masaki
Published: December 2014

Background and Aim

The feasibility of TDM‐621, the synthetic infectious agent‐free peptides, was tested in hemostasis of the bleeding after endoscopic treatments of the gastric tumors.

Methods

The patients who underwent endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) or endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) were enrolled in the present study. The subject of hemostasis was the oozing after the EMR or ESD. The hemostatic effect, the secondary hemorrhage from one postoperative day to the day before discharge and operability were studied.

Results

The hemostatic effects were assessed in 12 patients. It was “remarkably effective” in 11 patients and “effective” in 1 patient. The operability was “very easy” in two patients, “easy” in eight patients and “acceptable” in two patients. No secondary hemorrhage was observed in all of 12 patients. No adverse effect considered to be related to TDM‐621 was observed.

Conclusion

It was shown that hemostasis using TDM‐621 was feasible after endoscopic treatments of the gastric tumors without any technical trouble or adverse event.
A Prospective Study of the Use and Effects of Screening Mammography in Women Aged 70 and Older
Authors: Vacek Pamela M. , Skelly Joan M.
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To prospectively examine how age and comorbidity affect screening mammography use, cancer detection, and overall survival.

Design

Prospective, with median follow‐up of 10.2 years.

Setting

A population‐based cohort of Vermont women with data in the Vermont Breast Cancer Surveillance System.

Participants

Women aged 70 and older with no history of breast cancer (N = 20,697).

Measurements

Rates of screening, diagnostic procedure use, and breast cancer diagnosis were examined according to age and comorbidity. The effect of breast cancer on overall survival was assessed in relation to detection mode, tumor characteristics, and treatment.

Results

Screening declined 9% per year after age 70 and 18% with each unit increase in comorbidity score, with corresponding increases in clinically detected breast cancer. Invasive cancer was associated with greater overall mortality (screen detected: hazard ratio (HR) = 1.22, 95% confidence interval (CI)  = 1.07–1.40; clinically detected: HR = 1.68, 95% CI = 1.43–1.96). The latter HR reflects a much greater absolute risk of death for women in a population with high baseline mortality. Use of breast‐conserving surgery as the only treatment for Stage I cancer increased markedly with age and was associated with shorter overall survival than radiation or mastectomy (relative risk = 2.23, 95% CI = 1.42–3.47).

Conclusion

Lower screening mammography use by older women is associated with more clinically detected breast cancers, which are associated with poorer survival. Treatment received for early‐stage cancer influences the effect of screening on survival.
Epidemiology of Drug–Disease Interactions in Older Veteran Nursing Home Residents
Authors: Aspinall Sherrie L. , Zhao Xinhua , Semla Todd P. , Cunningham Francesca E. , Paquin Allison M. , Pugh Mary Jo , Schmader Kenneth E. , Stone Roslyn A. , Hanlon Joseph T. ,   the Veterans Affairs Community Living Center Pharmacotherapy Research Group
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To describe the prevalence of and factors associated with drug–disease interactions (DDIs) in older nursing home residents according to the American Geriatrics Society 2012 Beers Criteria.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Fifteen Veterans Affairs Community Living Centers.

Participants

Individuals aged 65 and older with a diagnosis of dementia or cognitive impairment, a history of falls or hip fracture, heart failure (HF), a history of peptic ulcer disease (PUD), or Stage IV or V chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Measurements

Medications that could exacerbate the above conditions (DDIs).

Results

Three hundred sixty‐one of 696 (51.9%) eligible residents had one or more DDIs. None involved residents with a history of PUD, one involved a resident with CKD, and four occurred in residents with HF. Of 540 residents with dementia or cognitive impairment, 50.7% took a drug that could exacerbate these conditions; the most commonly involved medications were antipsychotics (35.4%) and benzodiazepines (14.4%). Of 267 with a history of falls or hip fracture, 67.8% received an interacting medication, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (33.1%), antipsychotics (30.7%), and anticonvulsants (25.1%) being most commonly involved. Using separate multivariable logistic regression models, factors associated with DDIs in dementia or cognitive impairment and falls or fractures included age 85 and older (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.38, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.24–0.60 and aOR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.24–0.96, respectively), taking five to eight medications (aOR = 2.06, 95% CI = 1.02–4.16 and aOR = 4.76, 95% CI = 1.68–13.5, respectively), taking nine or more medications (aOR = 1.99, 95% CI = 1.03–3.85 and aOR = 3.68, 95% CI = 1.41–9.61, respectively), and being a long‐stay resident (aOR = 1.80, 95% CI = 1.04–3.12 and aOR = 2.35, 95% CI = 1.12–4.91, respectively).

Conclusion

DDIs were common in older nursing home residents with dementia or cognitive impairment or a history of falls or fractures.
Evidence‐based medicine: What has happened in the past 50 years?
Authors: Mellis Craig
Published: December 2014

Although the phrase ‘evidence‐based medicine’ (EBM) was used for the first time in the medical literature less than 25 years ago, the history of EBM goes back for centuries. What is remarkable is how popular and how globally accepted the EBM movement has become in such a short time. Many famous, past clinicians have played major roles in the disciplines that preceded EBM, particularly ‘clinical epidemiology’. It soon became clear to the early EBM champions that ‘evidence’ was only part of the clinical decision‐making process. Consequently, both clinical expertise and the patient's values and preferences were rapidly incorporated into the concept we now know as ‘EBM’. The current need for high‐quality, easily accessible ‘evidence‐based summaries’ for busy clinicians is now apparent, as traditional EBM requires both considerable time and skill. Consequently, there is a progressive move away from the primary literature (such as randomised controlled trials) to systematic reviews and other ‘evidence‐based summaries’. The future of EBM will almost certainly involve widespread utilisation of ‘clinical (computer)‐based decision support systems’.
Paediatric nephrology: The last 50 years
Authors: Kausman Joshua Y , Powell Harley R
Published: December 2014

In 1965, the specialty of paediatric nephrology was in its infancy. Following the development of a landmark collaborative research study, the International Study of Kidney Disease in Childhood in the mid‐1960s, the first specialist societies were formed: the European Society of Pediatric Nephrology in 1967 and the American Society of Pediatric Nephrology in 1969. The extraordinary improvements in care delivered to children with kidney disease over the past 50 years are too broad to cover in any one paper. They traverse the spectrum of diagnosis, classification, therapeutics, social well‐being and transition to adult care. We have selected four case scenarios to highlight these changes in key areas of paediatric nephrology: post‐streptococcal glomerulonephritis, nephrotic syndrome, haemolytic uraemic syndrome and neonatal dialysis and childhood transplantation.
The distribution of megablocks in the Ries crater, Germany: Remote sensing, field investigation, and statistical analyses
Authors: Sturm Sebastian , Kenkmann Thomas , Willmes Malte , Pösges Gisela , Hiesinger Harald
Published: December 2014

The Ries crater is a well‐preserved, complex impact crater that has been extensively used in the study of impact crater formation processes across the solar system. However, its geologic structure, especially the megablock zone, still poses questions regarding crater formation mechanics. The megablock zone, located between the inner crystalline ring and outer, morphologic crater rim, consists of allochthonous crystalline and sedimentary blocks, Bunte Breccia deposits, patches of suevite, and parautochthonous sedimentary blocks that slumped into the crater during crater modification. Our remote sensing detection method in combination with a shallow drilling campaign and geoelectric measurements at two selected megablocks proved successful in finding new megablock structures (>25 m mean diameter) within the upper approximately 1.5 m of the subsurface in the megablock zone. We analyzed 1777 megablocks of the megablock zone, 81 of which are new discoveries. In our statistical analysis, we also included 2318 ejecta blocks >25 m beyond the crater rim. Parautochthonous megablocks show an increase in total area and size toward the final crater rim. The sizes of allochthonous megablocks generally decrease with increasing radial range, but inside the megablock zone, the coverage with postimpact sediments obscures this trend. The size‐frequency distribution of all megablocks obeys a power‐law distribution with an exponent between approximately −1.7 and −2.3. We estimated a total volume of 95 km3 of Bunte Breccia and 47 km3 of megablocks. Ejecta volume calculations and a palinspastic restoration of the extension within the megablock zone indicate that the transient cavity diameter was probably 14–15 km.
PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE OF PUBLIC SERVICE MOTIVATION RESEARCH
Authors: VANDENABEELE WOUTER , BREWER GENE A. , RITZ ADRIAN
Published: December 2014

This article reviews the evolution of almost 25 years of public service motivation research in order to identify what is necessary to raise future research to a higher level. First, we look at the rise in public service motivation research and try to provide an explanation for the increasing number of publications. Second, we review the empirical research on public service motivation and summarize the knowledge that has been built up so far in terms of the nature of the concept and its prevalence, its antecedents, and its consequences or outcomes. Third, we identify the challenges which future research is likely to face and we develop a strategy to address the aforementioned issues. In doing so, we aim to provide a roadmap for future research and thus contribute to a further increase in more robust knowledge on a topic that has been increasingly influential in public administration and public management.
Novel TRAPPC2 mutation in a boy with X‐linked spondylo‐epiphyseal dysplasia tarda
Authors: Adachi Hiroyuki , Takahashi Ikuko , Takahashi Tsutomu
Published: December 2014

X‐linked spondylo‐epiphyseal dysplasia tarda (SEDT) is an X‐linked recessive, late‐onset, progressive skeletal disorder characterized by mild‐to‐moderate short‐trunked short stature. X‐linked SEDT is caused by mutations in the gene TRAPPC2, which is located on chromosome Xp22. In the present study, we identified a novel splice‐site mutation, c.93+1G>A, in TRAPPC2 in a 9‐year‐old Japanese patient who had X‐linked SEDT and no family history of the disease. On reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, the mutation resulted in a 4 bp frame‐shift insertion between exon 3 and exon 4. The present case highlights the importance of genetic analysis for confirmatory diagnosis of X‐linked SEDT, especially in cases without a positive family history.
Fibroadenoma in Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome with paternal uniparental disomy of chromosome 11p15.5
Authors: Takama Yuichi , Kubota Akio , Nakayama Masahiro , Higashimoto Ken , Jozaki Kosuke , Soejima Hidenobu
Published: December 2014

Herein is described a case of breast fibroadenomas in a 16‐year‐old girl with Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) and uniparental disomy (UPD) of chromosome 11p15.5. She was clinically diagnosed with BWS and direct closure was performed for an omphalocele at birth. Subtotal and 90% pancreatectomy were performed for nesidioblastosis at the ages 2 months and 8 years, respectively. Bilateral multiple breast fibroadenomas were noted at the age of 16 and 17 years. In this case, paternal UPD of chromosome 11p15.5 was identified on microsatellite marker analysis. The relevant imprinted chromosomal region in BWS is 11p15.5, and UPD of chromosome 11p15 is a risk factor for BWS‐associated tumorigenicity. Chromosome 11p15.5 consists of imprinting domains of IGF2, the expression of which is associated with the tumorigenesis of various breast cancers. This case suggests that fibroadenomas occurred in association with BWS.
Postoperative mitral leaflet rupture in an infant with Loeys–Dietz syndrome
Authors: Nishida Koichi , Tamura Satoshi , Yamazaki Sachiko , Sugita Ryo , Yamagishi Masaaki , Noriki Sakon , Morisaki Hiroko
Published: December 2014

This report describes an infantile case of Loeys–Dietz syndrome (LDS) with spontaneous mitral leaflet rupture. The patient was diagnosed with a type B interruption of the aortic arch. Bilateral pulmonary artery banding was performed 5 days after birth. On the 53rd day, intra‐cardiac repair was performed without valvuloplasty. Although the operation was successful, mitral regurgitation deteriorated at 4 weeks after operation. On the 88th day, a mitral valvuloplasty was performed and a severely ruptured anterior leaflet was observed. Seven days after valvuloplasty, the mitral valve insufficiency again worsened and a fourth operation was performed. Two tears were observed in the anterior and posterior mitral valve leaflets, and a mitral valve replacement was required. Subsequently, the patient was diagnosed with LDS according to gene mutational status. LDS is known to have a poor prognosis with cardiovascular complications, but valve rupture has not been previously reported in other cases.
Prolonged incubation period in neonatal Pasteurella multocida meningitis and bacteremia
Authors: Yamaguchi Hiroshi , Tamura Takuya , Abe Michiko , Ogiwara Shigetoshi , Sai Shuji , Kosugiyama Kiyotaka , Sugihara Akemi , Nagumo Kiyoshi , Iwata Seido , Kinugawa Yoshikazu
Published: December 2014

Pasteurella multocida, often found as part of the human oral flora and in finger/toenails, also exists in many animals, especially cats, dogs, and pigs. Although rare, pasteurella infection in neonates can cause serious systemic disease, such as meningitis. In this article, a 23‐day‐old girl presented with decreased appetite and irritability for >2 days. Eighteen days previously her pet cat had jumped onto the left side of her head while she was sleeping. On laboratory data C‐reactive protein was high, and on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis leukocyte count was extremely high, with low glucose and high protein. P. multocida grew out of the blood and CSF cultures, and she was successfully treated with antibiotics for 3 weeks. Although pasteurellosis rarely occurs, it can sometimes lead to life‐threatening situations, so parents should exercise caution when having pets around their children.
Opsoclonus–myoclonus syndrome following rotavirus gastroenteritis
Authors: Gurkas Esra , Gucuyener Kivilcim , Yılmaz Unsal , Havalı Cengiz , Demir Ercan
Published: December 2014

Opsoclonus–myoclonus syndrome (OMS) is a rare neurologic disorder characterized by opsoclonus, myoclonus, ataxia and behavioral disturbance. In the pathogenesis, an autoimmune process with infectious or paraneoplastic trigger has been suggested. We describe the case of a 22‐month‐old girl with OMS following rotavirus gastroenteritis. Rotavirus should be considered in the differential diagnosis of OMS in children.
Hepatic focal nodular hyperplasia with congenital portosystemic shunt
Authors: Cho Yuki , Shimono Taro , Morikawa Hiroyasu , Shintaku Haruo , Tokuhara Daisuke
Published: December 2014

Hepatic focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) is a rare benign tumor in children. Vascular anomalies have been identified as pathological features of FNH, but the etiology remains unclear. We describe a rare case including the time course of formation of hepatic FNH in response to congenital portosystemic shunt (PSS). A 4‐month‐old girl was identified on newborn mass screening to have hypergalactosemia, but no inherited deficiencies in galactose‐metabolizing enzymes were found. Ultrasonography and per‐rectal portal scintigraphy showed intrahepatic PSS of the right lobe as a cause of the hypergalactosemia. At age 12 months, the patient had elevated hepatic enzymes and small hypoechoic hepatic lesions around the shunt. On abdominal contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography spoke‐wheel sign and central stellate scar were seen, which are typical features of hepatic FNH without biopsy. Congenital intrahepatic PSS should be evaluated on abdominal contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography and observed over time because of its potential to develop into hepatic FNH.
Mycobacterium avium complex‐associated peritonitis with CAPD after unrelated bone marrow transplantation
Authors: Miyashita Emiko , Yoshida Hisao , Mori Daisuke , Nakagawa Natsuki , Miyamura Takako , Ohta Hideaki , Seki Masafumi , Tomono Kazunori , Hashii Yoshiko , Ozono Keiichi
Published: December 2014

Peritonitis remains an important complication of peritoneal dialysis and is mostly caused by aerobic enteric bacteria. Non‐tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM)‐associated peritonitis is an unusual but serious infection, requiring special culture techniques to avoid delay in diagnosis. We report the case of an 11‐year‐old girl with aplastic anemia on ambulatory peritoneal dialysis who had Mycobacterium avium complex‐associated peritonitis after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT). This case emphasizes that we should be constantly cautious about NTM infection in allo‐HSCT recipients, especially when standard cultures are negative and the infection is refractory to empirical antibiotic therapy.
Transitional cell carcinoma in a patient with X‐linked hyperimmunoglobulin M syndrome
Authors: Li Jia‐Shiuan , Shyur Shyh‐Dar , Huang Ren‐Hung
Published: December 2014

Patients with X‐linked hyperimmunoglobulin M syndrome (XHIGM) have a defective CD40–CD40 ligand system and further immunoglobulin class‐switching. They may present with recurrent infection and malignancy involving the liver, pancreas or biliary tract. We report here a case of poorly differentiated transitional cell carcinoma in a young man with XHIGM even on regular treatment and discuss the possible pathogenesis. Given that the triggering of the CD40–CD40 ligand system has been found to improve tumor immunogenicity in recent studies, future immunotherapy targeting the CD40 ligand for these patients may be feasible to prolong their survival.