bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accrual to Trans‐Tasman Radiation Oncology Group‐sponsored trials 2010–2012
Authors: Christie David RH
Published: April 2013

Introduction

Few trials groups report analyses of accrual. Although Trans‐Tasman Radiation Oncology Group (TROG) has reported accrual within individual trials, no analysis has ever been reported. Type A trials are those trials for which TROG is the principal sponsor and are dependent on accrual from TROG centres. The aim of this study was to review accrual rates to type A trials over the last 3 years.

Methods

All type A trials that had presented accrual data during the TROG annual scientific meetings and the trials review meetings between April 2010 and April 2012 were reviewed. Expected accrual rate (EAR) and actual accrual rate (AAR) were estimated from accrual curves as well as initial delays in accrual. Ratios of AAR to EAR (RAEAR) were calculated.

Results

There were 16 type A trials from which estimates could be made. The median EAR was 40 patients per year and the median AAR was 20 patients per year. Wide variations in each were noted and the median RAEAR was 0.67. The median initial delay was 7.5 months.

Conclusions

Although TROG is a highly successful trials organisation, the median AAR is only half of the median EAR and in only three trials (19%) was the AAR the same or more than the EAR. Future reports could address potential factors affecting the AAR but would require prospective data collection. The RAEAR is one of many factors that can be used to help determine which trials should continue. Overall rates of accrual can be used as a record of TROG's productivity.
Once‐daily reirradiation for rectal cancer in patients who have received previous pelvic radiotherapy
Authors: Ng Michael K Y , Leong Trevor , Heriot Alexander G , Ngan Samuel Y K
Published: April 2013

Introduction

The purpose of this study is to assess the efficacy and toxicity using once‐daily reirradiation for patients with rectal cancer having received previous pelvic radiotherapy.

Method

Between June 1997 and June 2008, 56 patients were identified having received previous pelvic radiotherapy and received reirradiation for rectal cancer. Reirradiation intent was palliative in 43 patients, and preoperative/postoperative in 13 patients. Eighty per cent of patients received concurrent chemotherapy (n = 45).

Results

The median dose‐fractionation reirradiation schedule was 39.6 Gy in 22 fractions once daily (range 20–39.6 Gy), and the median cumulative radiation dose was 87.3 Gy. Seven patients experienced a grade 3 acute toxicity, with no grade 4 event. Fifty‐one patients (91%) completed the treatment and five patients required a treatment break. The overall symptomatic response rate was 88% at three months post‐reirradiation. There was one late effect of skin ulceration among patients reirradiated palliatively. Median overall survival was 39 months in patients undergoing radical surgery versus 15 months in patients reirradiated palliatively (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Once‐daily reirradiation to a total dose of ≤39.6 Gy is relatively safe in the treatment of patients with rectal cancer after previous pelvic radiotherapy. It is effective in symptom control and provides an additional option in management of local recurrence.
Estimates of the Long‐Run Growth Rate of Australia
Authors: Shankar Sriram , Bhaskara Rao B.
Published: April 2013

This short note estimates using the Kmenta's (1967) approximation, a constant elasticity of substitution (CES) production function for Australia for 1960–2004. It is found that the elasticity of substitution is 2.44, technical progress is capital augmenting and the steady‐state growth rate (SSGR) of Australia is about 0.34%.
Apparent survival estimation from continuous mark–recapture/resighting data
Authors: Barbour Andrew B. , Ponciano José M. , Lorenzen Kai
Published: April 2013

The recent expansion of continuous‐resighting telemetry methods (e.g. acoustic receivers, PIT tag antennae) has created a class of ecological data not well suited for traditional mark–recapture statistics. Estimating survival when continuous recapture data is available ensues a practical problem, because classical capture–recapture models were derived under a discrete sampling scheme that assumes sampling events are instantaneous with respect to the interval between events.

To investigate the use of continuous data in survival analysis, we conducted a model structure adequacy simulation that tested the Cormack–Jolly–Seber (CJS) and Barker joint data survival estimation models, which mainly differ through the Barker's inclusion of secondary period information. We simulated a population in which survival and detection occurred as a near continuous (daily) process and collapsed detection information into monthly sampling bins for survival estimation.

While both models performed well when survival was time‐independent, the CJS was substantially biased for low survival values and time‐dependent conditions. Additionally, unlike the CJS, the Barker model consistently performed well over multiple sample sizes (number of marked individuals). However, the high number of parameters in the Barker model led to convergence difficulties, resulting in a need for an alternative optimization method (simulated annealing).

We recommend the use of the Barker model when using continuous data for survival analysis, because it outperformed the CJS over a biologically reasonable range of potential parameter values. However, the practical difficulty of implementing the Barker model combined with its shortcomings during two simulations leaves room for the specification of novel statistical methods tailored specifically for continuous mark–resighting data.
Epidural vs. intravenous fentanyl during colorectal surgery using a double‐blind, double‐dummy design
Authors: SADURNÍ M. , BELTRÁN DE HEREDIA S. , DÜRSTELER C. , PÉREZ‐RAMOS A. , LANGOHR K. , ESCOLANO F. , PUIG M. M.
Published: April 2013

Background

The overall therapeutic effectiveness of epidural fentanyl vs. the intravenous route is controversial. The present work describes a randomized, controlled, double‐blind, double‐dummy study of the intraoperative requirements of fentanyl administered by the intravenous or epidural routes during open colon surgery.

Methods

Thirty patients were randomized to receive intraoperative analgesia with boluses of fentanyl administered by either the epidural or intravenous route (2 μg/kg). The first fentanyl bolus was administered 10 min before incision, and repeated boluses were given when mean arterial pressure or heart rate increased more than 20% over basal values. General anaesthesia was maintained with a propofol infusion. Intraoperative fentanyl and propofol requirements, time to awakening, time to analgesia request, and incidence of adverse effects were recorded.

Results

Median [interquartile range (range)] fentanyl requirements in the epidural and intravenous groups were 0.81 [0.65 (0.47–2.61)] and 2.5 [1.08 (1.07–4.85)] μg/kg/h, respectively (P < 0.001). The epidural group had a shorter time to awakening, with a median of 8 min [4.5 (3–18)] compared with 20 min [12.5 (7–34)] for the intravenous group (P < 0.001). There were no significant differences in propofol requirements. The time to analgesia request was also delayed in the epidural group, with a median of 5 h [5.5 (1–16)] vs. 2 h [1 (1–5)] when fentanyl was administered intravenously (P < 0.001). The incidence of adverse effects was similar in both groups.

Conclusion

During major abdominal surgery, epidural administration requires lower doses of intraoperative fentanyl when compared with the intravenous route. Epidural fentanyl also facilitates early awakening and residual analgesia without increasing adverse events.
Effects of an invasive species on refuge‐site selection by native fauna: The impact of cane toads on native frogs in the Australian tropics
Authors: Bleach Iris , Beckmann Christa , Brown Gregory P. , Shine Richard
Published: April 2013

Invasive species can induce shifts in habitat use by native taxa: either by modifying habitat availability, or by repelling or attracting native species to the vicinity of the invader. The ongoing invasion of cane toads (Rhinella marina) through tropical Australia might affect native frogs by affecting refuge‐site availability, because both frogs and toads frequently shelter by day in burrows. Our laboratory and field studies in the wet‐dry tropics show that native frogs of at least three species (Litoria tornieri, Litoria nasuta and Litoria dahlii) preferentially aggregate with conspecifics, and with (some) other species of native frogs. However, the frogs rarely aggregated with cane toads either in outdoor arenas or in standardized experimental burrows that we monitored in the field. The native frogs that we tested either avoided burrows containing cane toads (or cane toad scent) or else ignored the stimulus (i.e. treated such a burrow in the same way as they did an empty burrow). Native frogs selected a highly non‐random suite of burrows as diurnal retreat sites, whereas cane toads were less selective. Hence, even in the absence of toads, frogs do not use many of the burrows that are suitable for toads. The invasion of cane toads through tropical Australia is unlikely to have had a major impact on retreat‐site availability for native frogs.
Stress‐tolerator leaf traits determine population dynamics in the endangered New Caledonian conifer Araucaria muelleri
Authors: Enright Neal J. , Miller Ben P. , Perry George L. W. , Goldblum David , Jaffré Tanguy
Published: April 2013

Demographic and ecophysiological data for the endangered New Caledonian conifer, Araucaria muelleri (Araucariaceae), were analysed to: (i) evaluate population viability in relation to site conditions and human impacts; and (ii) advance our understanding of how stress‐tolerator plant functional traits affect the population dynamic behaviour and conservation requirements of long‐lived tree species. Growth, survivorship and recruitment in four A. muelleri populations were monitored across 9 years. Demographic rates were analysed using stage‐based transition matrices. Leaf δ13C, %N and photosystem II stress (Fv/Fm) were measured for seedlings, saplings and trees, and leaf mass per area (LMA) for trees, and correlations among ecophysiological and demographic variables explored. Seedling, sapling and tree stem growth were among the slowest, and annual survivorship among the highest, reported for any tree. Transition matrix analyses yielded stable estimated population growth rates, λ, not significantly different from 1.0 for all populations. Leaf δ13C was positively correlated with seedling and sapling height growth, while daytime photosystem II stress (Fv/Fm) was high in seedlings, but low in saplings and trees. Ecophysiological measures suggest that individuals transition from moisture‐limited growth at the seedling stage to nutrient‐limited growth as adults. High levels of environmental stress result in slow stand dynamics, characterized by low recruitment and growth rates counterbalanced by equally low mortality rates. These dynamics result in populations with limited capacity to increase in size quickly, but potentially highly vulnerable to decline should the rate of adult mortality increase. This combination of traits is likely typical of extreme stress‐tolerator woody species and suggests a conservation focus on the preservation of mature individuals.
Foetal and childhood growth and asthma in adult life
Authors: Barker David JP , Osmond Clive , Forsén Tom J , Thornburg Kent L , Kajantie Eero , Eriksson Johan G
Published: April 2013

Aim

Recent research suggests that asthma may originate through defects in the airway epithelium, acquired in utero, and an altered response to infections after birth. Here, we examine whether asthma in adult life is associated with reduced body size at birth and poor living conditions in childhood.

Methods

We studied 658 people taking medication for asthma in a cohort of 13 345 men and women born in Helsinki, Finland, during 1934–1944. Their body and placental size at birth, and their living conditions and growth in childhood, had been recorded.

Results

The odds ratios for asthma were 0.93 (95% CI 0.89–0.97, p = 0.001) per cm increase in birth length and 0.92 (0.89–0.96, p < 0.001) per cm increase in the length of placental surface. After allowing for size at birth, growth during childhood was unrelated to asthma. People who were born into families of low socio‐economic status were at increased risk of later asthma.

Conclusion

Slow linear growth in utero, which could be a result of impaired placentation, increases the risk of later asthma. Slow linear growth may be associated with impaired development of the airways. Babies with impaired lung development born into families of low socio‐economic status may be most vulnerable to the disease.
Infant feeding practices in the first 24–48 h of life in healthy term infants
Authors: Johns HM , Forster DA , Amir LH , Moorhead AM , McEgan KM , McLachlan HL
Published: April 2013

Aim

To examine in‐hospital infant feeding practices, focusing on initiation and prevalence of breastmilk expression and to describe the proportion of women having a breast pump immediately after birth.

Methods

Postpartum women were recruited from three hospitals in Melbourne, Australia, between 2009 and 2011. Inclusion criteria: having had a healthy singleton term infant, intending to breastfeed and fluency in English. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire.

Results

Just over 1000 women were recruited at 24–48 h postpartum; 50% were primiparous. Forty‐seven per cent of infants had been fully breastfeeding at the breast from birth, and another 47% had received at least some expressed breastmilk. Forty per cent of first‐time mothers reported having had a problem breastfeeding, and 46% already had a breast pump prior to the birth of their infant.

Conclusions

Early breastfeeding problems were common, and less than half the infants had fed only at the breast in the first days of life. Given the normalization of breastmilk expression, more evidence is needed regarding the impact of expressing on duration of breastmilk feeding and maternal health outcomes.
Mössbauer Spectroscopic and Chromaticity Analysis on the Colourative Mechanism of Ancient Goryeo Celadon from GangJin and Buan
Authors: Jeon A. Y. , No H. G. , Kim U. S. , Cho W. S. , Kim K. J. , Kim J. Y. , Kim C. M. , Kim C. S. , Kang G. I.
Published: April 2013

In ancient Goryeo celadon excavated from the kiln sites in the GangJin and Buan areas, the effect of the chemical composition and ionic state of Fe on the colour was evaluated by Mössbauer spectroscopy and chromaticity analysis. According to chromaticity analysis, the L* value (brightness) of the glaze was shown to be affected more by TiO2 and MnO than by Fe2O3, and the body was affected more by Fe2O3 than by TiO2. The a* value was found to be affected by Fe2O3 and TiO2 in the glaze, whereas there was hardly any change in the body according to the composition. As for the b* value, changes due to the composition were shown to be smaller than those for the L* and a* values. According to the Mössbauer spectroscopy results, as the quantities of TiO2 and Fe2O3 are increased, Fe2+/Fe3+ decreases; while the changes in Fe2+/Fe3+ with MnO and P2O5 are negligible. As the quantity of Fe2+/Fe3+ increases, the a* and b* values decrease, which results in the change of colour from red–yellow to blue–green. The characteristic green colour can be attributed to increased L* (brightness) and decreased a* and b* values (blue–green shift) due to the reduced Fe ion, which is mainly determined by the TiO2 and Fe2O3 contents.
Developing Accounting Regulations that Reflect Public Viewpoints: The Australian Solution to Differential Reporting
Authors: Potter Brad , Ravlic Tom , Wright Sue
Published: April 2013

In this paper, we analyse the factors that have shaped the approach taken by the Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB) in addressing the issue of differential reporting in Australia. In contrast to its early adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards in 2005, the AASB has signalled an independent approach to differential reporting. Still in progress at the time of writing, we show how the AASB's approach has been shaped by feedback from key stakeholder groups, as well as by influential individuals and key events. In the face of strongly held views on both sides of the debate, the Board has moved from reliance on discursive techniques to develop and justify proposed policies to embracing to a greater extent, the use of more objective research evidence to resolve the empirical questions presented in the public debate.
Hospital Numerical Flexibility and Nurse Economic Security in China and India
Authors: Nyland Chris , Härtel Charmine E.J. , Vu Thin , Zhu Cherrie Jiuhua
Published: April 2013

This article contrasts the flexibility of Chinese and Indian urban hospitals and the security of nurses. The study draws on a survey of 55 urban hospitals, and finds that national context generates different flexibility–security outcomes even when workers with similar skills are considered. Our findings support claims that China is constructing a flexibility–security regime that aims to promote both security and flexibility, and that India remains attached to employer‐based social protection, but challenges the claim that economic growth is higher in China because India's employers have relatively less capacity to utilize labour‐time as they wish.
The Greek Public Sector Wage Premium before the Crisis: Size, Selection and Relative Valuation of Characteristics
Authors: Christopoulou Rebekka , Monastiriotis Vassilis
Published: April 2013

We examine the Greek public–private wage differential before the debt crisis to evaluate the prospective impact of the recent public sector pay cuts. We find a large public premium which persists after controlling for individual and job characteristics. For men, much of this is accounted for by self‐selection into the sector that rewards better their characteristics, while for women it is largely driven by sectoral differences in returns. We attribute these effects to more egalitarian pay structures in the public sector and to demand problems in the private sector. The recent policy measures only partially change this situation, as wage deflation extends to the private sector, preserving public premia for the low paid.
Effectiveness of dysphagia training for adult learning disabilities support workers
Authors: Tredinnick Gerlind , Cocks Naomi
Published: April 2013

Accessible summary

It is important to notice problems with eating, drinking and swallowing in people with a learning disability.

People who have problems with eating, drinking and swallowing need support from staff to help them stay healthy.

This study shows that training gives staff a better understanding and more confidence when identifying problems and supporting a person with eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties.

This study investigated the effectiveness of a 1‐day dysphagia training package delivered to support workers who work with adults with a learning disability. Thirty‐eight support staff took part in this study. Twenty‐five support staff received training, and 13 did not receive training and therefore acted as a control group. Three questionnaires were completed by each participant: immediately before, immediately after and a month after the training delivery. Questionnaires measured both confidence and knowledge. Findings indicated that there was a significant increase in knowledge and confidence scores in the trained group. These increases were largely maintained over a 1‐month period. There was no significant change in confidence or knowledge scores in the untrained group.
Self‐directed support policy: challenges and possible solutions
Authors: Harkes Mary A. , Brown Michael , Horsburgh Dorothy
Published: April 2013

Accessible summary

Self‐Directed Support is the latest system of social care giving vulnerable people in the UK a budget instead of a service provided by local authorities.

There is a lack of evidence to demonstrate how people with intellectual disabilities access information and make choices about Self‐Directed Support.

Self‐Directed Support is not yet available to all individuals with an intellectual disability.

There is a need for further education and training for professionals and support staff to ensure that people who have intellectual disabilities are assisted to make informed choices about care provision.

A systematic literature review was conducted between September 2010 and April 2011 and published earlier in this journal, paper 1. The findings indicated that few studies of Self‐Directed Support focused specifically on people with intellectual disabilities. The range of individuals' ability and distinction between adults with or without legal capacity have not been addressed. It is clear that Self‐Directed Support is not, as yet, a viable option for all individuals with an intellectual disability. However, some who have accessed it reported an improvement in their quality of life. For Self‐Directed Support to succeed for people with a wide range of intellectual disabilities, the level of awareness of its existence, and the potential barriers in relation to uptake, must be identified and addressed. This paper suggests possible strategies to maximise access to Self‐Directed Support and identifies areas in which further research is required.
Maternal mental distress influences child outcomes in brief parent training
Authors: Kjøbli John , Nærde Ane , Bjørnebekk Gunnar , Askeland Elisabeth
Published: April 2013

Background

Brief Parent Training (BPT) promotes effective parenting in parents of children with conduct problems. As previous research has provided inconsistent results, this study explored the impact of maternal mental distress on outcomes of BPT.

Method

Participants included 216 families randomized to BPT or a comparison group.

Results

Maternal distress negatively predicted five of eight outcomes, regardless of intervention allocation. Low‐maternal distress predicted lower conduct problems (parent‐ and teacher‐reported), whereas high distress predicted higher teacher‐reported conduct problems in BPT relative to comparisons.

Conclusions

Refinement of interventions to help children with conduct problems and distressed mothers should be prioritized.
Roles of histone methyl‐modifying enzymes in development and progression of cancer
Authors: Suzuki Takeshi , Terashima Minoru , Tange Shoichiro , Ishimura Akihiko
Published: April 2013

Retroviral insertional mutagenesis in mice is considered a powerful forward genetic strategy to identify disease genes involved in cancer. Our high‐throughput screens led to frequent identification of the genes encoding the enzymes engaged in histone lysine methylation. Histone methylation can positively or negatively impact on gene transcription, and then fulfill important roles in developmental control and cell‐fate decisions. A tremendous amount of progress has accelerated the characterization of histone methylations and the enzymes that regulate them. Deregulation of these histone methyl‐modifying enzymes has been increasingly recognized as a hallmark of cancer in the last few years. However, in most cases, we have only limited understanding for the molecular mechanisms by which these enzymes contribute to cancer development and progression. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding some of the best‐validated examples of histone lysine methyltransferases and demethylases associated with oncogenesis and discuss their potential mechanisms of action.
Transmembrane mucin MUC1 overexpression and its association with CD10+ myeloid cells, transforming growth factor‐β1 expression, and tumor budding grade in colorectal cancer
Authors: Khanh Do Trong , Mekata Eiji , Mukaisho Ken‐ichi , Sugihara Hiroyuki , Shimizu Tomoharu , Shiomi Hisanori , Murata Satoshi , Naka Shigeyuki , Yamamoto Hiroshi , Endo Yoshihiro , Tani Tohru
Published: April 2013

The prognostic value of mucin expression has been reported in several studies. We examined the association between mucin expression and other previously reported prognostic factors, including infiltration of CD10+ myeloid cells, transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) expression, and tumor budding at invasion fronts. Immunohistochemical analysis of 206 colorectal samples was carried out to determine whether MUC1, MUC2, MUC4, and MUC5AC expression could predict the survival of colorectal cancer patients. Serial sections were stained for CD10, TGF‐β1, and pan‐cytokeratin in order to detect tumor budding. As per multivariate analyses, MUC1 expression appeared to be the most significant predictor of both recurrence‐free survival and overall survival. MUC4 was only significant to predict recurrence‐free survival, and MUC5AC could be a good marker in stage IV colorectal cancers that require additional chemotherapy. MUC1 (CD227) expression was associated with infiltration of CD10+ myeloid cells, TGF‐β1 expression, and tumor budding grade. These findings suggest that MUC1 is indicative of poor prognoses that may be associated with immunosuppression and epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Furthermore, MUC1 expression appears to be a chemoattractant for CD10+ stromal cells.
Osteoblastic and osteoclastic differentiation on SLA and hydrophilic modified SLA titanium surfaces
Authors: Bang Sung‐Moon , Moon Ho‐Jin , Kwon Yong‐Dae , Yoo Ji‐Yeon , Pae Ahran , Kwon Il Keun
Published: April 2013

Purpose

We evaluated the activities of both osteoblastic and osteoclastic differentiation on sandblasted/acid etched (SLA), hydrophilic SLA surfaces (modSLA) and pretreatment titanium (PT).

Material and methods

The osteoblastic differentiation was evaluated by alkaline phosphatase analysis and Alizarin Red S staining, and the expression of bone‐related proteins, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), osteopontin (OPN), and osteocalcin (OCN), was investigated by reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Primary mice monocytes were expanded and differentiated in the presence of macrophage‐colony stimulating factor (M‐CSF), and osteoclastic differentiation was evaluated by actin ring formation assay and tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity assay. Real‐time PCR tests were performed to investigate the expression of gene mRNA expression levels in osteoclast cells.

Result

Differentiation of osteoblasts in the Alizarin Red S test staining and ALP assay was significantly increased in the modSLA surface. The preceding results were supported by the result of RT‐PCR for the expression of Runx2, OPN, and OCN. As for osteoclastic activity, differentiated osteoclasts rarely existed on the SLA and modSLA surface with actin ring. The results of real‐time PCR and TRAP activity supported the preceding results.

Conclusion

It may be concluded that the modSLA surface promotes osteogenic effect and prevents osteoclastic differentiation. Promotion of osteoblastic proliferation after a short‐term cell culture might be responsible for stimulated bone regeneration implying that early loading may be possible. Also, the anti‐osteoclastic effect of the modSLA surface may contribute to maintenance of the marginal bone level of dental implants, implying long‐term stability would be provided by this surface technology. The modSLA surface may not only make early loading possible but possibly reduce marginal bone loss during the maintenance phase.
Cone‐beam computed tomographic analysis of sinus membrane thickness, ostium patency, and residual ridge heights in the posterior maxilla: implications for sinus floor elevation
Authors: Shanbhag Siddharth , Karnik Prabodh , Shirke Prashant , Shanbhag Vivek
Published: April 2013

Objective

To determine, using cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT), the residual ridge height (RRH), sinus floor membrane thickness (MT), and ostium patency (OP) in patients being evaluated for implant placement in the posterior maxilla.

Materials and methods

CBCT scans of 128 patients (199 sinuses) with ≥1 missing teeth in the posterior maxilla were examined. RRH and MT corresponding to each edentulous site were measured. MT >2 mm was considered pathological and categorized by degree of thickening (2–5, 5–10 mm, and >10 mm). Mucosal appearance was classified as “normal”, “flat thickening”, or “polypoid thickening”, and OP was classified as “patent” or “obstructed”. Descriptive and bivariate statistical analyses were performed.

Results

MT >2 mm was observed in 60.6% patients and 53.6% sinuses. Flat and polypoid mucosal thickening had a prevalence of 38.1% and 15.5%, respectively. RRH ≤4 mm was observed in 46.9% and 48.9% of edentulous first and second molar sites, respectively. Ostium obstruction was observed in 13.1% sinuses and was associated with MT of 2–5 mm (6.7%), 5–10 mm (24%), and >10 mm (35.3%, P < 0.001). Polypoid mucosal lesions were more frequently associated with ostium obstruction than flat thickenings (26.7% vs. 17.6%, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Thickened sinus membranes (>2 mm) and reduced residual ridge heights (≤4 mm) were highly prevalent in this sample of patients with missing posterior maxillary teeth. Membrane thickening >5 mm, especially of a polypoid type, is associated with an increased risk for ostium obstruction. In the presence of these findings, an ENT referral may be beneficial prior to implant‐related sinus floor elevation.
Dense‐type crypt opening seen on magnifying endoscopy with narrow‐band imaging is a feature of gastric adenoma
Authors: Kanesaka Takashi , Sekikawa Akira , Tsumura Takehiko , Maruo Takanori , Osaki Yukio , Wakasa Tomoko , Shintaku Masayuki , Yao Kenshi
Published: April 2013

Background

Magnifying endoscopy with narrow‐band imaging (ME‐NBI) can visualize crypt openings (CO) as slit‐like structures in gastric epithelial neoplasia. Visualization of numerous CO is characteristic of low‐grade adenoma (LGA). The aim of the present study was to investigate whether visualization of CO by ME‐NBI is useful for discriminating between LGA and early gastric cancer (EGC).

Patients and Methods

Fifty‐one superficial elevated‐type gastric neoplasias (10 LGA and 41 EGC) were retrospectively evaluated. The presence of CO and the number of CO were evaluated in endoscopic photos obtained at high‐power endoscopic magnification by ME‐NBI. The optimal cut‐off value for the number of CO visualized to discriminate between LGA and EGC was determined by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

The mean number of CO visualized was significantly larger in the LGA group than in the EGC group (31.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 16.3–46.1 vs 6.3, 95% CI 3.6–9.0; P < 0.001). When the cut‐off for the number of CO visualized was set at 20, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of dense‐type CO for discriminating between LGA and EGC were 90.0%, 87.8%, and 88.2%, respectively.

Conclusion

Determining the number of CO visualized in superficial elevated‐type gastric neoplasias by ME‐NBI appears to be a useful method for discriminating between LGA and EGC.
Long‐term outcomes of endoscopic submucosal dissection for early gastric cancer: A single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Kosaka Takashi , Endo Masaki , Toya Yosuke , Abiko Yukito , Kudara Norihiko , Inomata Masaaki , Chiba Toshimi , Takikawa Yasuhiro , Suzuki Kazuyuki , Sugai Tamotsu
Published: April 2013

Background

The aim of the present study was to examine the safety and efficacy of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for early gastric cancer (EGC) based on the long‐term outcomes.

Patients and Methods

From June 2002 to March 2007, ESD was carried out in 472 cases and 570 lesions of EGC. Post‐surgical cases and status‐unknown cases were excluded. The following long‐term outcomes were examined in 438 patients who were reliably followed up for at least 5 years after treatment (range: 5 years [60 months] to 9 years, 9 months [117 months]): local recurrence, metachronous recurrences, and the survival rate.

Results

The overall en bloc resection rate was 97.7% for all lesions treated by ESD. The median procedure time was 47.0 min (range 8–345 min). The incidence of positive horizontal andvertical margins was 3.7% and 3.4%, respectively. The incidence of perforation and postoperative bleeding was 5.3% and 4.3%, respectively. There were no deaths related to ESD. Local recurrence was observed in five patients (1.1%), and metachronous recurrences in 7.8% of the patients. The post‐treatment 5‐year survival was 83.1%. There were no deaths as a result of gastric cancer associated with sites treated by ESD.

Conclusion

ESD can be considered a standard treatment for EGC based on its expanded indications and low incidences of local recurrence and lymph node metastasis.
Linagliptin provides effective, well‐tolerated add‐on therapy to pre‐existing oral antidiabetic therapy over 1 year in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Inagaki N. , Watada H. , Murai M. , Kagimura T. , Gong Y. , Patel S. , Woerle H.‐J.
Published: April 2013

Aims

To evaluate the long‐term safety and efficacy of linagliptin as add‐on therapy to one approved oral antidiabetic drug (OAD) in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and insufficient glycaemic control.

Methods

This 52‐week, multicentre, open‐label, parallel‐group study evaluated once‐daily linagliptin 5 mg as add‐on therapy to one OAD [biguanide, glinide, glitazone, sulphonylurea (SU) or α‐glucosidase inhibitors (A‐GI)] in 618 patients. After a 2‐week run‐in, patients on SU or A‐GI were randomized to either linagliptin (once daily, 5 mg) or metformin (twice or thrice daily, up to 2250 mg/day) as add‐on therapy. Patients receiving the other OADs received linagliptin add‐on therapy (non‐randomized).

Results

Adverse events were mostly mild or moderate, and rates were similar across all groups. Hypoglycaemic events were rare, except in the SU group. Overall, 26 (5.8%) hypoglycaemic events were reported in patients receiving linagliptin (non‐randomized). Hypoglycaemic events were similar for linagliptin and metformin added to A‐GI (1/61 vs. 2/61, respectively) or SU (17/124 vs. 10/63, respectively). Significant reductions in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels (between −0.7 and −0.9%) occurred throughout the study period for the background therapy groups that received linagliptin (baseline HbA1c 7.9–8.1%). The decline in HbA1c levels was indistinguishable between linagliptin and metformin groups when administered as add‐on therapy to A‐GI or SU.

Conclusions

Once‐daily linagliptin showed safety and tolerability over 1 year and provided effective add‐on therapy leading to significant HbA1c reductions, similar to metformin, over 52 weeks in Japanese patients.
Spreadsheet Modeling of () Inventory Policies
Authors: Cobb Barry R.
Published: April 2013

This teaching brief describes a method for finding an approximately optimal combination of order quantity and reorder point in a continuous review inventory model using a discrete expected shortage calculation. The technique is an alternative to a model where expected shortage is calculated by integration, and can allow students who have not had a calculus‐based statistics course to better understand how uncertainty affects inventory decisions.
Beat the Instructor: An Introductory Forecasting Game
Authors: Snider Brent R. , Eliasson Janice B.
Published: April 2013

This teaching brief describes a 30‐minute game where student groups compete in‐class in an introductory time‐series forecasting exercise. The students are challenged to “beat the instructor” who competes using forecasting techniques that will be subsequently taught. All forecasts are graphed prior to revealing the randomly generated actual demand. Experiential learning and forecasting exercises are reviewed before detailing how the game is administered and debriefed. Student survey results (n = 247) provide evidence of teaching effectiveness, including that 78% of students said that playing the game increased their interest in learning the forecasting techniques that were used by the instructor.
Coloured and Toxic Nectar: Feeding Choices of the Madagascar Giant Day Gecko, Phelsuma grandis
Authors: Minnaar Ingrid A. , Köhler Angela , Purchase Cromwell , Nicolson Susan W.
Published: April 2013

Coloured nectar is a rare phenomenon best known from islands and insular habitats. Islands are also known for lizard pollination, where coloured nectar potentially acts as a visual cue to attract pollinators, advertising the sweet reward. However, nectar may also contain secondary metabolites with toxic or deterrent effects. The aim of this study was to determine which factors are important as artificial nectar choice determinants to the Madagascar giant day gecko, Phelsuma grandis, an island pollinator: artificial nectar colour, artificial nectar colour saturation, artificial nectar conspicuousness and/or the presence of the alkaloid nicotine. Coloured artificial nectar and the darkest artificial nectar colour saturation were found to be important visual cues for the geckos, while the contrast between artificial nectar and petal colour was not. Geckos were deterred only by high nicotine concentrations (1000 μm in 0.63 m sucrose) and may even prefer low nicotine concentrations to sucrose‐only solutions. Given their overall fondness for sugar solutions, Madagascar giant day geckos are likely to be important pollinators of Malagasy plant species that produce enough nectar to attract them, and plants with coloured nectar and/or secondary metabolites may have evolved those traits to attract the geckos in particular.
Bullous pemphigoid: role of complement and mechanisms for blister formation within the lamina lucida
Authors: Iwata Hiroaki , Kitajima Yasuo
Published: April 2013

Bullous pemphigoid (BP), an autoimmune subepidermal blistering skin disease, demonstrates tense blisters with or without widespread erythema, blistering along the lamina lucida, immunoglobulin G and/or complement deposits at the basement membrane zone, and the presence of circulating autoantibodies against hemidesmosomal molecules. These autoantibodies usually react against 180‐kDa and/or 230‐kDa proteins, designated as BP180 and BP230, respectively. The precise blistering mechanisms after autoantibodies bind to antigens are not fully understood. Immune complexes are thought to initially activate the complement cascade, which may induce activation of proteases and/or cytokines and cause dermal–epidermal separation. However, why does separation run specifically within the lamina lucida in a space as narrow as 500 nm wide? This review mainly focuses on the possible mechanisms of BP‐specific blistering and how separation occurs along the lamina lucida, based on existing evidence.
Cognitive impairment and depression in the early 60s: which is more problematic in terms of instrumental activities of daily living?
Authors: Park Boyoung , Jun Jae Kwan , Park Jonghan
Published: April 2013

Aim

We evaluated the impact of cognitive impairment and depression on functional impairment in people aged in their early 60s.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 3034 inhabitants of a rural area of Korea aged 60–64 years. The Korean version of the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE‐K), the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS‐15), and Lawton's Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) Scale were used to assess cognitive impairment, depression and functional impairment.

Results

A total of 30.8% of participants reported that they were dependent for at least one of the items on the IADL scale, and the overall prevalence of cognitive impairment and depression was 17.3% and 25.9%, respectively. The results showed that cognitive impairment had a stronger relationship with IADL impairment than did depression (odds ratio [OR] = 4.91, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.91–6.17; c‐statistics = 0.647 and OR = 2.05, 95% CI 1.67–2.50; c‐statistics = 0.622, respectively). In particular, subclinical levels of the MMSE‐K and GDS‐15 score were associated with IADL impairment in participants without cognitive impairment or depression (OR = 0.73, 95% CI 0.67–0.80, OR = 1.09, 95% CI 1.03–1.16, per 1 point score increase, respectively). Only the MMSE‐K score showed a significant association in participants with either cognitive impairment or depression, or both. Our findings also showed the independent association of IADL impairment with age, employment status, education and type of insurance.

Conclusions

Compared with depression, cognitive impairment was more strongly associated with IADL impairment. Subclinical level of cognitive impairment and depression were also associated with IADL impairment in mentally healthy participants. Therefore, early intervention is required to prevent further decline. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 62–70.
Patient‐reported outcomes of 182 adults with severe haemophilia in Germany comparing prophylactic vs. on‐demand replacement therapy
Authors: Mondorf W. , Kalnins W. , Klamroth R.
Published: April 2013

Clotting factor replacement therapy has a major impact on the quality of life in patients with haemophilia. To analyse and compare the outcomes of on‐demand and prophylactic treatment regimens in child‐ and adulthood, a self‐evaluation questionnaire was sent to 182 patients over 30 years of age with severe haemophilia A or B. Analysis of the questionnaire results revealed that most study participants had been treated on‐demand in childhood, but that the majority of these patients subsequently switched to prophylaxis. However, of those patients who began with prophylaxis as children, the vast majority maintained prophylactic treatment as adults. Inhibitor development was reported significantly more frequently by patients who started with on‐demand treatment than by those who started with prophylaxis. In the year prior to completing the questionnaire, adults with severe haemophilia who received prophylactic treatment reported a significantly lower incidence of bleeding as a result of more frequent factor consumption. These results are in close accordance with published prospective data. Although nearly all patients with severe haemophilia had joint pain due to bleeding, those who had always had prophylactic treatment reported superior outcomes in terms of the need for joint replacement, walking speed and distance, participation in school sports and further education. These data clearly underline the superiority of prophylactic treatment for the majority of individuals with severe haemophilia. The worst outcomes were found in those treated on‐demand in childhood who later switched to prophylaxis. In contrast to most studies which have compared treatment regimens on the basis of data from healthcare professionals, this study reflects treatment outcomes from the patient's perspective.
Anti‐nucleosome autoantibodies as markers for autoimmune hepatitis and their correlation with disease activity
Authors: Yokokawa Junko , Kanno Yukiko , Abe Kazumichi , Saito Hironobu , Monoe Kyoko , Katsushima Fumiko , Sakamoto Natsumi , Takahashi Atsushi , Yokokawa Hirohide , Ohira Hiromasa
Published: April 2013

Aim

To assess the prevalence of autoantibodies against nucleosomes (anti‐nucleosome Ab) in patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), examine the correlation between anti‐nucleosome Ab and disease activity, and evaluate the effectiveness of anti‐nucleosome Ab in predicting relapse.

Methods

We analyzed serum anti‐nucleosome Ab levels in 38 patients with AIH by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and assessed their correlation with clinical characteristics.

Results

Anti‐nucleosome Ab levels were significantly higher in AIH, but not in patients with chronic hepatitis B (n = 20) or chronic hepatitis C (n = 20), compared to healthy controls (n = 15). The positive prevalence of anti‐nucleosome Ab was 71.1% in AIH. Anti‐nucleosome Ab levels were significantly lower during remission compared to that during flares within the same patients with AIH. Total bilirubin levels were significantly higher in patients with anti‐nucleosome Ab levels of 53.7 U/mL or more compared to those with less than 53.7 U/mL at disease onset. Analysis of the reduction in anti‐nucleosome Ab by immunosuppressive therapy in 16 AIH patients revealed that age at disease onset was significantly lower and IgG levels and relapse rates were significantly higher in patients with a reduction rate of less than 35% compared to those with a reduction rate 35% or more. The International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group score and γ‐globulin levels were also higher in patients with reduction rates of less than 35% (borderline significance).

Conclusion

Anti‐nucleosome Ab in AIH patients may be useful markers not only for disease diagnosis, but also for activity assessment and relapse prediction.
The effect of bone marrow‐ and adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cell transplantation on myocardial remodelling in the rat model of ischaemic heart failure
Authors: Karpov Andrey A. , Uspenskaya Yulia K. , Minasian Sarkis M. , Puzanov Maxim V. , Dmitrieva Renata I. , Bilibina Anna A. , Anisimov Sergey V. , Galagudza Michael M.
Published: April 2013

This study aimed to investigate the effect of bone marrow‐ and adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cell (BM‐MSC and AD‐MSC respectively) transplantation on left ventricular function and infarct area (IA) in the rat model of ischaemic heart failure. In anaesthetized Wistar rats, the left coronary artery (LCA) was occluded for 40 min with subsequent reperfusion for 7 days. Seven days following surgery, the animals with LCA occlusion/reperfusion were randomized into three groups: (i) Controls received intramyocardial injection of vehicle at three different locations within the peri‐infarct zone, (ii) BM‐MSC: cells were injected in the same way as in previous group (106), (iii) AD‐MSC: using the same protocol as used in the BM‐MSC group. In addition there was also a sham‐treated group that had no injection. Two weeks following MSC transplantation, the hearts were isolated and perfused according to the Langendorff method followed by 30‐min global ischaemia and 90‐min reperfusion. After this IA was determined histologically. During Langendorff perfusion initial and postischaemic LV functions were the same in all groups although LV pressure at the 10th minute of reperfusion was higher in the AD‐MSC group compared to controls. However, LV pressure during 30‐min global ischaemia was significantly higher in BM‐MSC as compared to controls and AD‐MSC. The sham treated animals showed the same results as those seen with BM‐MSC. Thus, BM‐MSC transplantation, in contrast to transplantation of AD‐MSC, resulted in better preservation of the LV ability to contract during ischaemia. Furthermore, IA was significantly smaller in BM‐MSC group as compared to the controls and the AD‐MSC groups. Thus this study has demonstrated that treatment with BM‐MSC both ameliorates LV function and reduces histological scar size.
Influence of R3+ Ion Sizes on the Transport Properties of RBaCo2O5+δ Ceramics
Authors: Qin Zhen , Song Hongzhang , Gao Feng , Jia Jianfeng , Yang Delin , Hu Xing
Published: April 2013

The resistivity, Seebeck coefficients, and power factors of as‐prepared RBaCo2O5+δ (R112) ceramics with variable R3+ ion sizes were investigated systemically. The resistivity of Pr112 and Nd112 exhibits semimetal behavior, which is different with other R112 who have a semiconductor‐semimetal transition. At room temperature, Dy112 has the biggest Seebeck coefficient. While at higher temperature, Y112 has best thermoelectric power. In addition, the affects of normalizing temperature on the transport properties of Eu112 ceramic were investigated. Its power factor above room temperature is improved by normalizing, and an optimum normalizing temperature exists at 400°C.