bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Study of Cefpirome Sulphate in Obstetric and Gynaecological Infections
Authors: Sagawa T , Fujino T , Sakuragi N , Kishida T , Yamada H , Fujimoto S
Published: February 2013

Cefpirome sulphate is a fourth-generation cephem antibiotic, which has a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and -negative bacteria, and is highly stable to β-lactamase. Cefpirome sulphate was administered to 166 patients with obstetric or gynaecological infections, and its clinical and antibacterial effect was evaluable in 139. Excluding seven patients who violated the study protocol by receiving concomitant drugs, the safety of cefpirome sulphate was assessed in 159 patients. In the 139 patients in whom efficacy was evaluated, the improvement rate was 80.6% (112/139) and the eradication rate 72.6% (45/62). The eradication rate for bacteria isolated from the patients at the start of the study was 84.7% (111/131). No resistance to cefpirome sulphate was observed in Enterococcus faecalis or Bacteroides species. Systemic erythema and nausea each occurred in one patient, and nine patients showed abnormal hepatic function test results. These results suggest that cefpirome sulphate is effective in the treatment of obstetric and gynaecological infections and has a good side-effect profile.
Isolated Factor VII Deficiency Diagnosed after a Life-Threatening Brain Haemorrhage
Authors: Tsuda T , Okamoto Y , Sakaguchi R , Katayama N , Ota K
Published: February 2013

A 65-year-old man was admitted to another hospital with a life-threatening brain haemorrhage, and laboratory examinations on admission revealed prolonged prothrombin time with normal activated partial thromboplastin time. To establish the cause of his abnormal coagulation, he was referred to our clinic. Neither the patient nor his family had any previous history of bleeding symptoms. His liver function was within normal limits but coagulation tests showed increased plasma activities of factors II, VIII, IX, X, with reduced activities of factors V and VII. The activity of factor VII was less than 2% but no inhibitor of factor VII was detected in the plasma. We concluded that the patient had a rare congenital isolated factor VII deficiency although he had not shown earlier bleeding problems, presumably because of compensation for the factor VII deficiency by enhanced activities of components of the extrinsic coagulation pathway, factors II, VIII, IX and X.
Efficacy and Tolerability of Hairgain® in Individuals with Hair Loss: A Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind Study
Authors: Thom E
Published: February 2013

This randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study was designed to investigate the efficacy and tolerability of a new agent for the treatment of hair loss, based on a marine protein, minerals and vitamins. Sixty subjects with hair loss of different aetiologies participated in the 6-month blinded phase of the study. Objective assessments indicated that the treatment was effective and subjective assessments showed a statistically significant positive effect of treatment. Exposure to the active preparation for a further 6 months in an open phase indicated a further improvement in hair growth. Exposure of the patients previously treated with placebo to the active preparation for 12 months gave similar results. Tolerability was good and no side-effects were reported. The product investigated may provide an alternative to pharmacotherapy for the treatment of hair-loss problems in individuals with androgenic alopecia.
The CAG Regimen (Low-Dose Cytarabine, Aclarubicin Hydrochloride and Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor) for the Treatment of Elderly Acute Myelomonocytic Leukaemia: A Case Study
Authors: Tsuda T , Okamoto Y , Sakaguchi R , Katayama N , Ota K
Published: February 2013

Elderly patients with acute myelomonocytic leukaemia (AMMoL) frequently have a poor quality of life after induction of remission using high-intensity treatment; Accepted we seek a more appropriate regimen for such patients. An 86-year-old man was hospitalized with a diagnosis of AMMoL (FAB classification M4), of abnormal karyotype, and complications of diabetes mellitus and complete right bundle branch block. He was treated with CAG therapy (cytarabine 10 mg/m2 subcutaneously every 12 h for 14 consecutive days; Accepted aclarubicin hydrochloride 10 mg/m2 per day, bolus intravenously for 4 consecutive days; Accepted granulocyte colony-stimulating factor 100 μg/day, subcutaneous injection for 14 consecutive days) every 3 months. White blood cell counts were at their lowest (around 600–800/μl) 12 days after the end of therapy, but returned to about 2000–2300/μl 30 days after stopping therapy. No symptoms of drug-related toxicity, except slight nausea, were found. Complete remission with a good quality of life was induced and lasted over 2 years suggesting that CAG therapy might prove effective in elderly patients with AMMoL.
Treatment Outcomes in Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis: Comparison of Macrolides and Moxifloxacin from the Patient Perspective
Authors: Lorenz J , Thate-Waschke I-M , Mast O , Kubin R , Rychlik R , Pfeil T , Daniel D , Tillotson GS
Published: February 2013

Moxifloxacin, a new respiratory quinolone, was compared with the macrolides azithromycin, clarithromycin and roxithromycin in a cohort study to assess clinical, safety and health-related outcomes of these antimicrobials in general practice settings. In total 332 patients with acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis (AECB) each received one of the antimicrobial agents for a standard short course of therapy. Random allocation of therapeutic agents occurred by centre, not individuals, and the drugs were prescribed in an open manner. In addition to clinical evaluation by their physicians, all patients kept daily diaries to assess AECB symptoms over the study period, therapy received and quality of life. The overall clinical response rate was 96% and all four regimens were well tolerated. After 14 days there were no significant differences between the study groups, but analyses of patients' daily evaluations of certain AECB specific symptoms showed a faster response rate in the moxifloxacin group
Clinical Practice and Future Needs in Recombinant Human Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Treatment: A Review of Randomized Trials in Clinical Haemato-Oncology
Authors: Johnsen HE
Published: February 2013

Recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (rHuG-CSF) may have a significant impact on preventing infections associated with chemotherapy-induced neutropenia, as well as shortening time to tree lineage engraftment following high-dose chemotherapy and progenitor transplantation. However, the scientific literature documenting evidence-based practice is insufficient and often misinterpreted. This review presents data and discusses the evidence for actual clinical practice in the use of rHuG-CSF in conventional cyclic chemotherapy, either prophylactic or therapeutic, and high-dose therapy, either in priming for mobilization or post-transplantation. In the past decade, many reports have based their conclusions on surrogate markers, and it is time to move towards evaluation of clinically relevant factors. Data must be generated prospectively based on current clinical practice, and several issues must be considered and evaluated to define the true clinical benefit of rHuG-CSF with or without stem-cell support. Evaluation should include complications and needs for resources as well as impact on toxicity and efficacy of conventional or high-dose chemotherapy.
The Significance of Measuring Plasma Leptin in Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Fujimaki S , Kanda T , Fujita K , Tamura J , Kobayashi I
Published: February 2013

We measured leptin concentrations in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI, n = 21) and in 15 age-matched controls, and compared leptin concentrations with levels of other myocardial enzymes and indicators of AMI. Blood was sampled immediately after hospital admission and at 1 h, 2 h, 3 h, 6 h and 9 h, then every 12 h until 5 days post-admission. Patients were stratified into three groups according to peak leptin concentrations: hypoleptinaemia (< 3 ng/ml); normoleptinaemia (≥ 3 – < 15 ng/ml) and hyperleptinaemia (≥ 15 ng/ml). Hypoleptinaemic AMI patients had significantly increased concentrations of plasma lactate dehydrogenase compared with normoleptinaemic patients. No significant differences in other serum markers were noted between hyperleptinaemic and normoleptinaemic AMI patients. A significant negative correlation was found between the peak concentrations of leptin and interleukin 6. Leptin may play a role in the regulation of the development of cardiac damage in patients with AMI.
A Randomized Comparison of Triple Therapy Helicobacter Pylori Eradication Regimens in Children with Peptic Ulcers
Authors: Shcherbakov PL , Filin VA , Volkov IA , Tatarinov PA , Belousov YB
Published: February 2013

An open, randomized trial was performed to compare the efficacy of three Helicobacter pylori eradication regimens in children with peptic ulcer disease. A total of 106 children (5–15 years) were treated for 1 week with metronidazole, 30–40 mg/kg per day depending on age, amoxycillin, 750 mg/day, and one of three anti-secretory agents: proprietary omeprazole, 20–40 mg/day depending on age; generic omeprazole, 20–40 mg/day; or ranitidine, 150 mg twice daily. The H. pylori eradication rate was significantly higher in patients receiving proprietary omeprazole (88.9%) than in those receiving generic omeprazole (80.0%) or ranitidine (74.3%), and this was associated with a trend towards faster ulcer healing. It is concluded that triple therapy consisting of an anti-secretory agent and two antimicrobials produces effective eradication of H. pylori and ulcer healing in children with peptic ulcer disease, and that proprietary omeprazole is more effective than both ranitidine and the generic formulation used in this study
Effects of Eradication Therapy on Gastric Emptying in Patients with Helicobacter Pylori-Positive Duodenal Ulcers
Authors: Onuk MD , Uslu H , Varoğlu E
Published: February 2013

In this study 28 patients with Helicobacter pylori-positive duodenal ulcers were treated with a 7-day triple-therapy regimen (omeprazole, clarithromycin, amoxycillin). Gastric emptying time was measured scintigraphically before and after therapy. Only 13 patients attended regularly for their endoscopic and scintigraphic follow-ups. Gastric emptying time was 57.6 ± 16.5 min in 28 patients before therapy, and 44.4 ± 13.9 min after therapy (44.7 ± 7.9 min in the control group). The present study demonstrated gastric emptying time to be longer in the ulcer patients compared with healthy controls and that, after eradication therapy, gastric emptying time became almost normal in the ulcer patients
Micronutrient Status and Glutathione Peroxidase in Bedridden Patients on Tube Feeding
Authors: Kajiyama H , Murase K , Miyazaki T , Isomoto H , Fukuda Y , Yamazawa N , Soda H , Takeshima F , Mizuta Y , Murata I , Kohno S
Published: February 2013

Deficiency of micronutrients, especially selenium, is common in critically ill patients. We investigated the micronutrient status (selenium, zinc, copper and manganese) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in 30 tube-fed patients and 21 hospitalized non-tube-fed control patients. Serum levels of selenium, copper and manganese in tube-fed patients were significantly lower than in control patients (selenium: 4.85 ± 1.38 μg/dl versus 8.67 ± 1.45 μg/dl; copper: 44.7 ± 36.9 μg/dl versus 92.1 ± 21.2 μg/dl; manganese 0.59 ± 0.41 μg/dl versus 1.52 ± 0.59 μg/dl). However, zinc and log GSH-Px in the serum were similar in the two groups. Serum selenium concentration correlated with the daily intake of selenium in tube-fed patients, but zinc, copper and manganese concentrations did not correlate with the daily intake of the respective trace elements in tube-fed patients. Blood GSH-Px activity correlated positively with serum selenium concentrations in the control patients, but not in tube-fed patients. These results demonstrate that selenium content of enteral feed appears to be insufficient to maintain normal serum levels in elderly bedridden patients. Our findings emphasize the importance of monitoring micronutrient status in patients on enteral feeding to avoid trace element deficiencies
Schedule-Dependent Combined Sensitivity Testing of Anti-Cancer Agents in Human Gastric Carcinoma Cell Lines
Authors: Murashima N , Gochi A , Kenmotsu M , Hamazaki K , Funaki M , Ohtsuka S , Tanaka N
Published: February 2013

The efficacy of combination chemotherapy for gastric carcinoma has been unsatisfactory, although the prognosis of advanced and recurrent disease has improved with the introduction of cisplatin (CDDP). This study examines the effect of the anti-cancer therapies CDDP, doxorubicin (ADM) and etoposide (VP-16) on the cell cycle and their cytotoxicity against two gastric carcinoma cell lines: MKN-28 (well differentiated) and MKN-45 (poorly differentiated). The treatments have different cytocidal mechanisms, and they were studied in dual combinations. For all combinations studied, cytotoxicity against MKN-45 was higher than against MKN-28. For ADM plus CDDP, or ADM plus VP-16, cytotoxicity was higher in patients pretreated with ADM than other regimens. The highest anti-tumour activity against both cell lines was obtained with ADM followed by CDDP (we have obtained good clinical results with this regimen). Schedule-dependent combined sensitivity testing of anti-cancer agents will be useful for the clinical application of therapies
Clinical and Pro-Host Effects of Cefaclor in Prophylaxis of Recurrent Otitis Media in HIV-Infected Children
Authors: Zuccotti GV , D'Auria E , Torcoletti M , Lodi F , Bernardo L , Riva E
Published: February 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of cefaclor in the prophylaxis of recurrent acute otitis media (AOM) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected children. The study was carried out in children born between 1 January 1986 and 31 December 1996 who had been vertically HIV infected. Patients who had experienced recurrent AOM between October 1997 and March 1998 (period 1) were eligible for the trial. Recurrent AOM was defined as the occurrence in the same patient of three or more episodes of AOM within 6 months of the observation period. Patients recruited for this trial received cefaclor at a dose of 20 mg/kg once daily for 6 months between April and September 1998 (period 2). Clinical observation was carried out in periods 1 and 2 and for the first 6 months after prophylaxis, i.e. October 1998 – March 1999 (period 3). Natural killer-cell activity, phagocytosis and myeloperoxidase activity were determined before and at the end of the prophylactic period. For each period, CD4-cell count measurement and CD4-positive cell class were recorded. Seventeen children were recruited for this trial. No significant differences were observed in natural killer-cell activity between periods 1 and 2, nor were any significant differences observed in CD4-positive cell class or CD4-positive cell count between the three periods. However, cefaclor administration was associated with a reduction in the number of AOM episodes in 100% of cases and a mean increase in myeloperoxidase activity in 57% of cases. This suggests that cefaclor may be useful in the prophylaxis of recurrent AOM in HIV-infected children.
A Therapeutic Strategy for Isolated Plasmacytoma of Bone
Authors: Ota K , Tsuda T , Katayama N , Sakaguchi R , Hara J , Hayashi H , Okamoto Y
Published: February 2013

Two cases of solitary plasmacytoma of bone (SPB) were diagnosed. The first case was a 41-year-old woman, complaining of fatigue from her lumbar region to her legs. The second case was a 56-year-old man complaining of poor gait and severe lumbago with numbness in the toes of both feet. Magnetic resonance imaging showed the osteolytic lesion in the 12th thoracic bone in the first patient and around the 2nd, 3rd and 4th lumbar bones in the second patient. In both patients serum analysis revealed the monoclonal component of immunoglobulin G (IgG) protein with κ-light chain, and considering this and other findings SPB was diagnosed. Both patients were first treated with irradiation around the involved bone and then with a course of chemotherapy. In the first patient the tumour region of the bone was surgically removed and replaced with a ceramic spacer. The symptoms of both patients were ameliorated, and the patients remained in good condition for around 3 years without conversion to multiple myeloma. In view of the overall effectiveness of treatments for SPB, our therapeutic strategy deserves careful evaluation.
Characteristics of Bone Morphogenetic Protein-Induced Chondroid Bone: Histochemical, Immunohistochemical and in Situ Hybridization Examinations
Authors: Kawakami T , Kawai T , Kimura A , Hasegawa H , Tsujigiwa H , Gunduz M , Nagatsuka H , Nagai N
Published: February 2013

The third ossification mode, known as transchondroid bone formation, is displayed chiefly in the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-induced heterotopic bone formation model. This paper describes the results of histopathological, histochemical, immunohistochemical, and in situ hybridization examinations of BMP-induced heterotopic bone in mice. The research focuses on the localization of typical matrix proteins (peptide and its mRNA) of cartilage and bone — type-I and type-II collagen, osteocalcin and osteopontin — in the chondroid bone matrix.
Effects of Roxithromycin on Adhesion Molecules Expressed on Endothelial Cells of the Dermal Microvasculature
Authors: Akamatsu H , Yamawaki M , Horio T
Published: February 2013

The objective of the study was to investigate the pharmacological action of roxithromycin, an oral macrolide antibiotic. The effects of roxithromycin on the cytokine-induced expression of endothelial leukocyte adhesion molecule (E-selectin) and intracellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 on endothelial cells of the dermal microvasculature were investigated in vitro using flow cytometry. Roxithromycin at a concentration of 0.5 μg/ml, which is lower than the therapeutic plasma concentration (ordinary daily dose, 150–300 mg), significantly inhibited the expression of E-selectin and ICAM-1 on endothelial cells of the dermal microvasculature induced by tumour necrosis factor-α. We conclude that roxithromycin may exert its anti-inflammatory action by inhibition of the in vivo expression of adhesion molecules on dermal microvascular endothelial cells.
The Use of the Laryngeal Mask Airway in Children with Subglottic Stenosis
Authors: Yavaşcaoălu B , Tokat O , Basagan E Mogol , Kaya FN , Erisen L , Kutlay O
Published: February 2013

Patients with tracheal stenosis have a high incidence of difficult or failed tracheal intubation. Airway management with the laryngeal mask airway during fibreoptic laryngoscopy was used in two children with acquired subglottic stenosis during spontaneous breathing. The laryngeal mask airway may be superior to tracheal intubation or use of a face mask during anaesthesia management in severe subglottic stenosis. Ventilation may be improved and the use of a laryngeal mask airway can reduce or eliminate some of the problems associated with the other methods of airway management, such as further damage to stenotic tissue and gastric distention.
Home Monitoring with the ClearPlan Easy™ Fertility Monitor for Fertility Awareness
Authors: May K
Published: February 2013

Many couples planning a pregnancy have had to gauge the best time for sexual intercourse from subjective indications, e.g. cervical mucus changes, or retrospective information, e.g. temperature and calendar methods. Between women, and within a woman, there are considerable variations in menstrual cycle length and underlying hormonal patterns. Although fertility test kits are available, most still rely on visual interpretation by the user. A new combination of immunochemical testing and computing technology is now available in the ClearPlan Easy™ Fertility Monitor†. This paper describes the features of this accurate, simple-to-use, home-based fertility monitor, which gathers data on hormonal patterns and takes account of the individuality of menstrual cycles in women. These data and information about other events, such as sexual intercourse, can be stored in the monitor and accessed by the couple and their medical professional for retrospective review. The monitor is useful for couples who have just started trying to conceive, or those who have been planning a pregnancy for some time.
The Effects of Valsartan on Insulin Sensitivity in Patients with Primary Hypertension
Authors: Top C , Cingözbay BY , Terekeci H , Küçükardali Y , Önde ME , Danaci M
Published: February 2013

Insulin resistance is an important risk factor of cardiovascular disease. This study was performed to determine the effects of valsartan on insulin sensitivity in patients with primary hypertension. In this study, non-obese subjects with primary hypertension and a reference group of healthy subjects matched by age, sex and body mass index were evaluated; patients with any other causes of peripheral insulin resistance and hyperlipidaemia were excluded. The effect of valsartan on insulin resistance, assessed by homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR), fasting serum insulin levels, determined by radioimmunoassay, and fasting blood glucose concentrations, measured by the glucose oxidase method, were evaluated. All obtained data were evaluated by Pearson correlation analysis. Before valsartan treatment, the fasting serum insulin levels were significiantly elevated in the 20 hypertensive patients with primary hypertension compared with the 20 subjects in the reference group (19.6 ± 7.1 versus 8.7 ± 1.9 μIU/ml). The fasting serum insulin levels correlated with HOMA-IR. Correlation analysis also showed a significant relationship between HOMA-IR and both systolic and diastolic blood pressures ( r = 0.71 and r = 0.77, respectively). In our study, we showed that patients with primary hypertension have a decreased insulin sensitivity that was reflected in high serum fasting insulin levels. Anti-hypertensive treatment with valsartan increases insulin sensitivity.
Differential Cytokine Response in Host Defence Mechanisms Triggered by Gram-Negative and Gram-Positive Bacteria, and the Roles of Gabexate Mesilate, a Synthetic Protease Inhibitor
Authors: Iwadou H , Morimoto Y , Iwagaki H , Sinoura S , Chouda Y , Kodama M , Yoshioka T , Saito S , Yagi T , Tanaka N
Published: February 2013

Bacterial infection results in the production of inflammatory mediators and may be involved in the pathogenesis of sepsis and/or systemic inflammatory response syndrome. The effect of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a major component of the outer surface of Gram-negative bacteria, and Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB), a superantigen of Gram-positive bacteria, on cytokine production in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was examined. LPS significantly increased the production of proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, and SEB enhanced the production of helper T lymphocyte type cytokines. These results illustrated the different responses to Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial infections. The effect of gabexate mesilate, a synthetic protease inhibitor, on cytokine production and expression of the toll-like receptor (TLR) was also examined. The results suggest that gabexate mesilate-induced inhibition of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-18 (IL-18) production in LPS-stimulated PBMCs is due to the inhibition of the nuclear factor-κB activation pathway and/or inhibition of the processing pathway of pro-TNF-α and pro-IL-18, not to down-regulation of TLR-2 or TLR-4.
Immunohistochemical Study of Cytokeratins in Hidradenitis Suppurativa (Acne Inversa)
Authors: Kurokawa I , Nishijima S , Kusumoto K , Senzaki H , Shikata N , Tsubura A
Published: February 2013

In 14 cases of hidradenitis suppurativa, cytokeratin (CK) expression was studied immunohistochemically, using six anti-keratin antibodies against CK1, CK10, CK14, CK16, CK17 and CK19, respectively. The draining sinus tract epithelium of hidradenitis suppurativa lesions was divided into three components: infundibular-like keratinized epithelium (type A), non-infundibular keratinized epithelium (type B), and non-keratinized epithelium (type C). In type A samples, CK17 (which is found in normal infundibulum) was not detected, suggesting fragility of this epithelial type. Keratin expression in types B and C epithelia was similar to that observed in the outer root sheath in normal hair follicles. Our results suggest that the draining sinus epithelium may possess characteristics of fragility, undifferentiation and hyperproliferation, as shown with CK expression.
Effect of Steroids on Lipopolysaccharide/Interleukin 2-Induced Interleukin 18 Production in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Kodama M , Takahashi HK , Iwagaki H , Itoh H , Morichika T , Yoshida A , Yoshioka H , Morimoto Y , Nishibori M , Tanaka N
Published: February 2013

Interleukin (IL) 18, a powerful inducer of the immunoregulatory cytokine interferon-γ (IFN-γ), presents upstream of the cytokine activation cascade in the inflammatory response. The anti-inflammatory properties of steroids permit their use in various conditions, although effects are transient and pathological states are not fully relieved by short-term steroidal use. We examined the effect of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/IL-2 on the cytokine cascade in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). We also examined the effect of steroids on LPS/IL-2-induced cytokine production in human PBMCs taken from healthy volunteers. Cell-free supernatant fractions were assayed for IL-18, IL-12, IL-2, IFN-γ and IL-10 protein, using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, and synergy between LPS and IL-2 in enhanced production of IL-18 was observed. Steroids suppressed the production of IL-18 and other secondary cytokines in LPS/IL-2-stimulated PBMCs, in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, although inhibition was incomplete even at high concentrations. Effects of steroid treatment on expression of membrane-bound LPS receptor antigen (mCD14) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) in PBMCs were studied by flow cytometric analysis. Steroid treatment up-regulated mCD14 expression in a concentration-dependent manner, with no effect on ICAM-1 expression. These results suggest that the incomplete counteraction of steroids in the LPS/IL-2-initiating cytokine cascade is due, at least partly, to the up-regulation of mCD14 by steroid preparations, which increases susceptibility to bacterial endotoxins.
A Clinical Comparison of Psoas Compartment and Inguinal Paravascular Blocks Combined with Sciatic Nerve Block
Authors: Tokat O , Türker YG , Uckunkaya N , Yilmazlar A
Published: February 2013

The extent of inguinal paravascular blockade and psoas compartment blockade with sciatic nerve block was evaluated in 60 patients. Volumes of 30 ml and 20 ml 0.35% bupivacaine with 1/200 000 epinephrine were injected for lumbar plexus and sciatic nerve block, respectively. Complete lumbar plexus blockade was achieved in 73% of the group who were treated with the psoas compartment technique and 43% of the group who were treated with the inguinal paravascular technique. Sensory blockade of the femoral, lateral femoral cutaneous and obturator nerves was obtained in 100%, 97% and 77% of the patients in the psoas compartment group, and 93%, 63% and 47% of the patients in the inguinal paravascular group, respectively. Sensory blockade of the lateral femoral cutaneous and obturator nerves was more rapid with psoas compartment block. The study suggests that the psoas compartment block is effective in blocking the femoral, lateral femoral cutaneous and obturator nerves, but the inguinal paravascular block is only effective in blocking the femoral nerve.
The Effects of Bone Chips Dehydrated with Solvent on Healing Bone Defects
Authors: Dayi E , Aslan M , Şimşek G , Yilmaz AB
Published: February 2013

The effect of bone chips dehydrated with solvent on the healing of bone defects was evaluated. Solvent-dehydrated spongiose bone chips were placed in experimentally formed cavities in the right back tibia of rabbits. After 10, 20 and 30 days, histopathological cross-sections from the bone grafts were examined microscopically for bone healing and formation of spongiose bone, cortex and bone marrow. Spongiose bone chips had a positive and accelerating influence on the healing of bone defects in the 10-day period after transplantation, but no significant differences were observed between the treated and control groups 20 and 30 days after transplantation.
Factors Influencing Mortality in Spontaneous Gastric Tumour Perforations
Authors: Ozmen MM , Zulfikaroglu B , Kece C , Aslar AK , Ozalp N , Koc M
Published: February 2013

Spontaneous perforation of gastric cancer is a serious complication with a very high incidence of mortality. In order to evaluate the prognostic factors influencing mortality in patients with gastric tumour perforations and to clarify the optimal surgical treatment, the records of patients at one centre during a 5-year period were evaluated retrospectively. Between 1995 and 2000, 14 patients with perforated gastric cancer were operated on in the Emergency Surgical Unit of a Turkish Hospital. This figure represents 3% of all the patients with gastric cancer who were treated during the same period. The hospital mortality was 36% in patients with perforations. The duration of symptoms suggesting perforation and the presence of pre-operative shock were predictive factors of mortality. It was concluded that those patients with pre-operative shock and delayed diagnosis should be treated with extra caution to decrease mortality. Perforation and peritonitis must be treated initially and elective radical surgery delayed.
Efficacy of Celecoxib in Treating Symptoms of Viral Pharyngitis: A Double-Blind, Randomized Study of Celecoxib versus Diclofenac
Authors: Weckx LLM , Ruiz JE , Duperly J , Mendizabal GA Martínez , Rausis MBG , Piltcher SL , Saffer M , Matsuyama C , Levy S , Fort JG
Published: February 2013

This study compared the efficacy and safety of the cyclooxygenase-2 specific inhibitor celecoxib with the conventional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac in the symptomatic treatment of viral pharyngitis. Adult patients from 27 study centers in Latin America were treated with oral doses of celecoxib 200 mg once daily or 200 mg twice daily, or diclofenac 75 mg twice daily for 5 days in a double-blind, randomized study. The primary efficacy assessment was ‘Throat Pain on Swallowing’ on day 3. In addition, secondary quality-of-life assessments were performed on days 3 and 5. All adverse events and treatment-emergent signs and symptoms were recorded. Data from 313 patients were evaluable for efficacy (105 celecoxib 200 mg once daily, 107 celecoxib 200 mg twice daily, 101 diclofenac 75 mg twice daily). The upper 95% confidence limits for the visual analog scale of ‘Throat Pain on Swallowing’ on day 3 for celecoxib 200 mg once daily relative to diclofenac 75 mg twice daily, and celecoxib 200 mg twice daily relative to diclofenac 75 mg twice daily were 9.26 and 7.83, respectively. All secondary efficacy and quality-of-life measures were clinically similar for the three treatment groups, and no statistically significant differences were detected. The incidences of treatment-emergent adverse events and withdrawals due to adverse events were similar for all groups, but numerically higher among patients taking diclofenac than celecoxib. More patients in the diclofenac group reported gastrointestinal complaints (7.3%) compared with those in the celecoxib groups (4.3% in the celecoxib 200 mg once-daily group and 3.4% in the celecoxib 200 mg twice-daily group). In conclusion, 5 days of treatment with celecoxib 200 mg once daily is as effective as diclofenac 75 mg twice daily in the symptomatic treatment of viral pharyngitis. Celecoxib 200 mg once daily is also as effective as celecoxib 200 mg twice daily in this condition.
Ramosetron for the Prevention of Cisplatin-Induced Acute Emesis: A Prospective Randomized Comparison with Granisetron
Authors: Kang YK , Park YH , Ryoo BY , Bang YJ , Cho KS , Shin DB , Kim HC , Lee KH , Park YS , Lee KS , Heo DS , Kim SY , Cho EK , Lim HY , Kim WK , Lee JA , Kim TY , Lee JC , Yoon HJ , Kim NK
Published: February 2013

Control of nausea and vomiting is very important in determining patient compliance with cisplatin chemotherapy. A multicentre, randomized, single-blind study was conducted to compare the tolerability and efficacy of ramosetron with those of granisetron over 24 h following cisplatin administration to cancer patients. In eight study centres, a total of 194 adult patients were randomly assigned to receive either intravenous ramosetron 0.3 mg or intravenous granisetron 3.0 mg. The anti-emetic effect of ramosetron determined from the no-vomiting rate lasted longer, but there was no significant difference in the number of acute vomiting episodes or the severity of nausea between the two groups. In the tolerability evaluation, there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups, except for a higher incidence of dull headache in the granisetron group. Ramosetron and granisetron appear to have equivalent efficacy and tolerability profiles, but the effects of ramosetron on the prevention of acute vomiting in patients undergoing cisplatin chemotherapy were longer lasting.
Comparative Study of Incadronate and Elcatonin in Patients with Malignancy-Associated Hypercalcaemia
Authors: Matsumoto T , Nagata N , Horikoshi N , Adachi I , Ohashi Y , Ogata E
Published: February 2013

The clinical usefulness of incadronate was compared with elcatonin in 26 patients with malignancy-associated hypercalcaemia. Data from 21 and 24 patients could be used to assess efficacy and safety, respectively. Eleven patients were given a single 10-mg intravenous infusion of incadronate and 10 received twice-daily intramuscular injections of 40 IU of elcatonin for 7 consecutive days. After treatment, corrected serum calcium levels decreased significantly in both groups. The anti-hypercalcaemic effect of elcatonin was characterized by its rapid onset, with serum calcium levels reduced 1 day after administration. In contrast, the anti-hypercalcaemic effect of incadronate was more sustained but only became apparent a few days after infusion. Evaluation of symptoms revealed significantly greater improvement rates in the incadronate group compared with the elcatonin group. Adverse drug reactions were observed in three patients in the incadronate group, i.e. mild and transient fever in two cases and exacerbation of disturbance of consciousness in one case. These findings suggest that incadronate produces more marked and sustained hypocalcaemic effects than elcatonin, and that co-administration of these two drugs may yield both rapid and sustained control of malignancy-associated hypercalcaemia.
Nicardipine Hydrochloride Injectable Phase IV Open-Label Clinical Trial: Study on the Anti-Hypertensive Effect and Safety of Nicardipine for Acute Aortic Dissection
Authors: Kim KH , Moon IS , Park JS , Koh YB , Ahn H
Published: February 2013

We performed a multicentre, phase IV, open-label clinical trial to examine the clinical usefulness of a continuous infusion of nicardipine hydrochloride to control hypertension in 31 patients with acute aortic dissection. Target blood pressure levels were reached within 15 min in 16 patients; in 15–30 min in 10 patients; in 30–45 min in three patients; and in 45–60 min in two patients. Baseline average systolic, diastolic and mean arterial blood pressures were 147 ± 23 mmHg, 82 ± 18 mmHg and 104 ± 18 mmHg, respectively, with third-day pressures significantly reduced at 119 ± 12 mmHg, 69 ± 9 mmHg and 86 ± 8 mmHg. Blood pressures after discontinuation of the infusion were not significantly different from those measured on the third day of infusion and no definite adverse effects attributable to the treatment were observed. Nicardipine hydrochloride was both effective and safe at controlling blood pressure in patients with acute aortic dissection.
The Role of Triple Therapy, Age, Gender and Smoking on the Genotoxic Effects of Helicobacter Pylori Infection
Authors: Gulten T , Tokyay N , Demiray M , Gulten M , Ercan I , Evke E , Sardas S , Karakaya AE
Published: February 2013

The role of age, gender and smoking on both the genotoxic effects of Helicobacter pylori and the efficacy of eradication therapy in a group of patients with gastritis was investigated. Gastritis was confirmed by endoscopy and biopsy, and the presence of H. pylori by urease testing. Pre- and post-treatment peripheral blood lymphocyte cultures were prepared from 17 patients and 25 metaphases per patients were analysed for sister chromatid exchange (SCE), a well-established technique for the evaluation of human exposure to toxic agents. Treatment with omeprazole, clarithromycin and amoxycillin triple therapy eradicated H. pylori in 94% of patients and significantly reduced the SCE frequency. Pre-treatment SCE frequency was found to be positively correlated with age. Female smokers tended to have higher post-treatment SCE frequencies than male smokers, and pre- and post-treatment SCE frequencies were higher in older males than in older females. Eradication therapy decreased the genotoxicity of H. pylori, but age in males and smoking in females may decrease treatment efficacy.
Analysis of Host Response to Hepatectomy by Simultaneous Measurement of Cytokines in the Portal Vein, Caval Vein and Radial Artery
Authors: Kanaoka Y , Yagi T , Sadamori H , Matsukawa H , Matsuda H , Inagaki M , Ishikawa T , Saito S , Iwagaki H , Tanaka N
Published: February 2013

We analysed the host response to hepatectomy by simultaneous measurement of various cytokines and their antagonists in the portal vein, caval vein and radial artery in 10 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Concentrations of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF), interleukin (IL) 1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, soluble TNF receptor type I (sTNF-R), soluble IL-2 receptor (sIL-2R), IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra), soluble CD14 (sCD14) and endotoxin were determined just before and 1 h after hepatectomy. The values of IL-6, sTNF-R and IL-1ra were significantly increased after hepatectomy at each sampling site. In contrast, the levels of sIL-2R and sCD14 after hepatectomy were significantly decreased, and the levels of IL-1β, IL-2 and IL-10 were below the detection limits. Differences in cytokine concentrations between sampling sites revealed that the surgical stress of hepatectomy induced significant IL-1ra production in the liver and sTNF-R and IL-6 production in the lungs. These results suggest that hepatic resection is followed by the production of cytokine antagonists, such as IL-1ra, sTNF-R and IL-6, which could represent an important regulatory mechanism against surgical stress.
Comparison of Granisetron with Granisetron Plus Droperidol Combination Prophylaxis in Post-Operative Nausea and Vomiting after Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Ozmen S , Yavuz L , Ceylan B Gokce , Tarhan O , Aydin C
Published: February 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of granisetron and granisetron plus droperidol combination therapy on post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in 60 patients who had undergone elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Induction of anaesthesia was achieved using 5 mg/kg thiopentone, 2 μg/kg fentanyl and 0.5 mg/kg atracurium, and anaesthesia was maintained with 2–2.5% sevoflurane. The patients were randomly assigned to two groups: group G (granisetron) ( n = 30) patients received 3 mg granisetron and group GD (granisetron plus droperidol) ( n = 30) patients received 3 mg granisetron and 1.25 mg droperidol shortly before the induction of anaesthesia. PONV incidence was recorded post-operatively at 15 min, 30 min, 60 min, 2 h, 4 h, 12 h and 24 h. While PONV prophylaxis provided almost complete emetic control in patients who received the granisetron plus droperidol combination, patients who received granisetron prophylaxis alone experienced PONV more frequently at 30 min and 60 min post-operatively. We conclude that addition of a low dose of droperidol to granisetron prophylaxis is more effective than granisetron prophylaxis alone for successful control of PONV.
Demonstration of In Vitro Antagonism between Fusidic Acid and Quinolones
Authors: Ertek M , Yazgi H , Erol S , Altoparlak U
Published: February 2013

Fusidic acid is an antibiotic active against staphylococci and other bacterial pathogens. It is used in the treatment of staphylococcal infections usually in combination with other antibacterial agents. Reports of the clinical effects of antimicrobial combinations containing fusidic acid have been somewhat inconsistent. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro antagonism of fusidic acid and quinolones. Twenty-six staphylococci strains isolated from various clinical samples were tested. After detecting the diameter of the zone of inhibition around fusidic acid, levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin and moxifloxacin for each strain, in vitro antagonism between fusidic acid and each quinolone was investigated using disk approximation. In all 26 strains, quinolones and fusidic acid were antagonist in vitro. The reason for this antagonistic effect and its clinical implications are not known. However, care should be exercised in prescribing quinolones and fusidic acid in combination.
Tumour Necrosis Factor-α Levels in Non-Diabetic Offspring of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Maltezos E , Papazoglou D , Exiara T , Papazoglou L , Karathanasis E , Christakidis D , Ktenidou-Kartali S
Published: February 2013

Tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) is considered to be involved in the insulin resistance of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The offspring of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus are at increased risk of developing diabetes and several metabolic abnormalities, but the underlying defects responsible are not known. We studied serum TNF-α levels in 30 healthy non-diabetic offspring of type 2 diabetic parents (group A), and the relationship between TNF-α levels and variables associated with insulin resistance and diabetes. For comparison, 30 healthy offspring of non-diabetic parents (group B) were also studied. The median serum concentration of TNF-α was significantly higher in group A than in group B, 3.5 pg/ml compared with 2.0 pg/ml, respectively. The individuals of group A also had significantly elevated levels of glycosylated haemoglobin, fasting glucose, glucose 2 h after an oral glucose tolerance test and triglycerides. We conclude that serum TNF-α concentration is significantly elevated in non-diabetic offspring of type 2 diabetics and this may predict later impairment of insulin action in these individuals.
Histological Assessment of the Effect of α-Tocopherol on Fracture Healing in Rabbits
Authors: Durak K , Sonmez G , Sarisozen B , Ozkan S , Kaya M , Ozturk C
Published: February 2013

To investigate the effect of α-tocopherol (vitamin E) on fracture healing in rabbits, two groups of 10 rabbits were either injected with α-tocopherol (treated) or untreated (controls). The right femurs of both groups were fractured, and the treated group were injected intramuscularly with 20 mg/kg α-tocopherol daily for 5 days starting on the day of fracture. After 21 days, histological sections of the fractured region were examined and scored. Fracture healing had progressed further in the α-tocopherol group than in the control group. A statistically significant difference between the histological grading of fracture healing in the two groups was found. This difference may result from an antioxidant (α-tocopherol) effect on free oxygen radicals in the fracture area. We conclude that α-tocopherol may affect fracture healing favourably and might be useful as a therapeutic agent in clinical fracture management.
Reiter's Syndrome Associated with HLA-B51: A Case Report
Authors: Taniguchi Y , Yorioka N , Kyuden Y , Asakimori Y
Published: February 2013

A 32-year-old Japanese man developed polyarthritis with mild fever and conjunctivitis. Clinical assessment indicated non-specific arthritis, aseptic pyuria induced by infection with Chlamydia, and conjunctivitis. He was diagnosed with reactive arthritis (Reiter's syndrome). Serotyping of human leucocyte antigen (HLA) class I and II revealed positivity for B51(5), A2, A33(19), B44(12), Cw1, DR4 and DR6, but B27 was negative. He was treated with a combination of doxycycline, oral prednisolone, diclofenac sodium and salazosulphapyridine. Fever and arthralgia improved and he became negative for anti- Chlamydia immunoglobulin (Ig) A and IgG antibodies. HLA-B51 may be involved in the pathogenesis of Reiter's syndrome in this Japanese patient.
Steroid and Xenobiotic Receptor (SXR) is a Key System for the Acquisition of Cisplatin Resistance in Endometrial Cancer Cells
Authors: Takami N , Sakamoto H , Yamamoto T
Published: February 2013

A novel steroid and xenobiotic receptor (SXR) may be involved in chemoresistance, and we studied this receptor in endometrial cancer cell lines. The cisplatin (CDDP)-sensitive Ishikawa cell line and its CDDP-resistant sub-clone (ISIW+) were used. ISIW+ cells showed a much higher SXR expression. When Ishikawa cells were cultured with SXR anti-sense oligonucleotides (AS), the cells failed to pass crisis and did not gain cisplatin resistance. In an experiment using SCID mice, all AS-treated animals survived, whereas controls had 50% survival at 35 days. The present data indicate that SXR is a key system to induce, maintain and reverse a cisplatin-resistant phenotype in endometrial cancer cells.
Identification of Three Strains of Mycobacterium Species Isolated from Clinical Samples Using Fatty Acid Methyl Ester Profiling
Authors: Ozbek A , Aktas O
Published: February 2013

The cellular fatty acid profiles of 67 strains belonging to three different species of the genus Mycobacterium were determined by gas chromatography of the fatty acid methyl esters, using the MIDI Sherlock® Microbial Identification System (MIS). The species M. tuberculosis, M. xenopi and M. avium complex were clearly distinguishable and could be identified based on the presence and concentrations of 12 fatty acids: 14:0, 15:0, 16:1ω7c, 16:1ω6c, 16:0, 17:0, 18:2ω6,9c, 18:1ω9c, 18:0, 10Me-18:0 tuberculostearic acid, alcohol and cyclopropane. Fatty acid analysis showed that there is great homogeneity within and heterogeneity between Mycobacterium species. Thus the MIS is an accurate, efficient and relatively rapid method for the identification of mycobacteria.
Effects of Whisky on Plasma Gastrin and Cholecystokinin in Young Adult Men
Authors: Manabe T , Sawai H , Okada Y , Funahashi H , Yamamoto M , Sato M , Hayakawa T , Yamaki K
Published: February 2013

Whisky (1 g/kg, 21.5% alcohol) was administered orally to healthy young adult male volunteers, and changes in the plasma concentrations of alcohol, acetaldehyde, gastrin, cholecystokinin (CCK) and serum amylase were measured over time. Values for alcohol and acetaldehyde rapidly reached a peak at 30–45 min after alcohol intake, followed by a gradual decline. The plasma gastrin concentration showed a rapid elevation, while the plasma CCK concentration did not exhibit any significant changes in the early phase after alcohol intake. Elevation of CCK was observed after 75 min, however. These results show that intake of whisky stimulates the secretion of gastrin and is associated with a later increase in CCK.