bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Sustained-Release Isosorbide Dinitrate on Post-Prandial Gastric Emptying and Gastroduodenal Motility in Healthy Humans
Authors: Madsen JL , Rasmussen SL , Linnet J , Fuglsang S , Rumessen JJ
Published: February 2013

Nitric oxide (NO) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter released by non-adrenergic and non-cholinergic neurons that innervate the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract. We examined whether NO, derived from a sustained-release preparation of isosorbide dinitrate, influenced gastric emptying and gastroduodenal motility after a meal. Eleven healthy volunteers participated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. Each subject ingested 40 mg isosorbide dinitrate orally as a sustained-release formulation or oral placebo, in random order. Gastric emptying and gastroduodenal motility were measured using scintigraphic and manometric techniques. Isosorbide dinitrate did not change the area under the curve of gastric retention versus time, and did not influence the frequency of antral contractions as assessed at 15-min intervals or the integrated duodenal motility index, as recorded over consecutive 15-min periods. A 40 mg single dose of sustained-released isosorbide dinitrate does not seem to alter gastric emptying or gastroduodenal motility after a meal.
Is Leptin Associated with Serum Lipid Profile or Any other Parameters of Blood Biochemistry in Post-Menopausal Women with Osteoporosis?
Authors: Oguz S , Aytan H , Tapisiz OL , Gunyeli I , Erdem S , Tuncay G , Mollamahmutoglu L
Published: February 2013

We investigated the relationship between serum leptin concentration, serum lipid profile and other blood biochemistry parameters in healthy post-menopausal women. Blood samples for analysis of serum leptin concentration, blood biochemistry and hormonal status, and urine samples for calcium measurement were taken from 122 women. No significant correlation was found between serum leptin concentration and serum lipid profile. The concentration of serum leptin was significantly associated with body mass index (BMI), luteinizing hormone (LH) and alanine transaminase (ALT). BMI was found to be a statistically significant independent factor for serum leptin concentration. We conclude that leptin was not associated with serum lipids and lipoproteins in post-menopausal women. Leptin was associated with BMI, ALT and LH, however, with BMI being an independent predictor of leptin concentration. There was a relationship between LH and serum leptin concentration even after menopause, and ALT correlated with serum leptin concentration through BMI.
Randomized Phase 2 Study of Radiotherapy Alone versus Radiotherapy with Paclitaxel in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Sarihan S , Kayisogullari U , Ercan I , Engin K
Published: February 2013

This randomized phase 2 study aimed to assess and compare the toxicity and response rates in patients with unresectable non-small cell lung cancer treated with radiotherapy (1.8-2 Gray [Gy] daily, five fractions a week, total 63 Gy) or radiotherapy + paclitaxel administered weekly (1.8 Gy daily, five fractions a week, total 59.4 Gy). Twelve patients in the latter arm received 30 mg/m2 paclitaxel (median six cycles) over a 3-h infusion once weekly. After assessing toxicity, the remaining nine patients received 60 mg/m2 paclitaxel weekly (median six cycles). Response was evaluated radio-logically 1 month after treatment. Grade 3 toxicity was 20% and 38% in the radiotherapy and chemoradiotherapy groups, respectively. Overall survival rates in complete and objective (complete plus partial) responders and progression-free survival rate of the objective responders were significantly better in the chemoradiotherapy arm. We believe that using paclitaxel in concurrent chemoradiotherapy regimens may be effective in patients with unresectable, locoregionally advanced non-small cell lung cancer.
Atopic Dermatitis-Like Symptoms in HR-1 Hairless Mice Fed a Diet Low in Magnesium and Zinc
Authors: Makiura M , Akamatsu H , Akita H , Yagami A , Shimizu Y , Eiro H , Kuramoto M , Suzuki K , Matsunaga K
Published: February 2013

We aimed to develop an animal model for atopic dermatitis. HR-1 hairless mice fed a diet with reduced magnesium and zinc levels were compared with mice fed a standard diet. Skin dryness and wrinklelike changes, scratching behaviour, decreased skin water content, increased transepidermal water loss and raised blood immunoglobulin E levels were seen in the group receiving the reduced magnesium and zinc diet compared with control mice. There were no significant differences in body weight or the weight of the major organs between the two groups. Haematological examination in both groups was normal apart from increased immunoglobulin E levels in mice fed a reduced magnesium and zinc diet. These mice may be useful models of atopic dermatitis; preparation of the animals is not particularly time consuming, the reproducibility is 100%, and atopic dermatitis symptoms occur even in a specific pathogen-free environment.
Photogrammetric Analysis of the Articular Surface of the Distal Radius
Authors: Ege A , Seker DZ , Tuncay I , Duran Z
Published: February 2013

Three-dimensional measurements made using photogrammetry have recently gained popularity with the development of real-time detection facilities and up-to-date equipment. The modelling of human bones presents a particular challenge as the measurements required are difficult to obtain, especially from uneven surfaces. In this study, the articular surfaces of 12 radius bones were evaluated using photogrammetry to obtain three-dimensional coordinates of certain points. Morphometric characteristics of the digital topography of the articular surface were analysed using three-dimensional data from more than 200 points for each specimen. The coronal plane curve, from the tip of the styloid process to the centre of the distal radioulnar articular notch, was found to be similar to the fourth degree polynomial function. A mathematical expression representing the sagittal curve passing through scapholunate border could not be found. Close-range photogrammetry is a safe and precise technique that can provide reliable, reproducible and accurate data for evaluating complex morphological surfaces.
Density of Demodex Folliculorum in Haematological Malignancies
Authors: Seyhan ME , Karincaoglu Y , Bayram N , Aycan O , Kuku I
Published: February 2013

We aimed to investigate the incidence and density of Demodex folliculorum in adults with leukaemia or lymphoma. Fifty patients with haematological malignancy and 50 healthy controls were studied. Patients had been diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukaemia (12%), acute myelocytic leukaemia (32%), chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (4%), chronic myelocytic leukaemia (10%), Hodgkin's lymphoma (4%) or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (38%). Standardized skin surface biopsies were taken and ≥ 5 living parasites/cm2 of skin was defined as an infestation. The difference in infestation rates between patients and controls was statistically significant. The highest incidences of D. folliculorum were found in patients with acute myelocytic leukaemia (10%), non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (6%), acute lymphocytic leukaemia (4%), chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (4%) and chronic myelocytic leukaemia (4%). Demodicidosis should be included in the differential diagnosis of facial eruptions in patients with haematological malignancies who are receiving chemotherapy, and a standardized skin surface biopsy should be performed.
Peripheral Arterial Occlusive Disease as a Predictor of the Extent of Coronary Atherosclerosis in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease with and without Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Papanas N , Tziakas D , Maltezos E , Kekes A , Hatzinikolaou E , Parcharidis G , Louridas G , Hatseras D
Published: February 2013

We evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of a diagnosis of peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) as a predictor of the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with and without diabetes. A total of 302 patients were assigned to groups according to the angiographic severity of their CAD and their diabetes status. Both PAOD and severe PAOD were diagnosed by measuring the ankle-brachial index (ABI) and toe-brachial index (TBI). A diagnosis of PAOD had a low sensitivity (34.3%) but a high specificity (87.0%) for detecting patients with severe CAD. Sensitivity was higher in patients with diabetes (52.4%) than without (19.5%), whereas specificity was higher in patients without diabetes (95.4%) than those with diabetes (69.8%). A diagnosis of severe PAOD had a higher specificity (96.0%), but a very low sensitivity (16.4%). We conclude that a diagnosis of PAOD among patients with CAD had a low sensitivity but a high specificity for detecting those with severe CAD, particularly in patients without diabetes.
Upper Extremity Deep Vein Thrombosis: Clinical and Treatment Characteristics
Authors: Karabay O , Yetkin U , Onol H
Published: February 2013

We aimed to evaluate patients with upper extremity deep vein thrombosis (UEDVT) in terms of the risk factors, symptoms, clinical course, diagnostic approaches and treatment outcome. Thirty-six patients with a diagnosis of UEDVT, comprising 19 males (52.7%) and 17 females (47.3%), were included in the study; the mean (± SD) age was 54 ± 12.3 years. The most common risk factor was central venous catheter use. The treatment protocol consisted of low molecular weight heparin for up to 7 days, followed by oral anticoagulants for up to 6 months. All patients were followed up for 1 year. More than 90% of the patients responded well to treatment. Nine patients (25%) died due to underlying diseases; no patients died secondary to UEDVT. None of the patients developed pulmonary embolus or recurrent deep venous thrombosis, and post-thrombotic syndrome was not observed. The mortality rate was related to the underlying diseases.
β2-Adrenergic Receptor Stimulation-Induced Immunosuppressive Effects Possibly through Down-Regulation of Co-Stimulatory Molecules, ICAM-1, CD40 and CD14 on Monocytes
Authors: Kuroki K , Takahashi HK , Iwagaki H , Murakami T , Kuinose M , Hamanaka S , Minami K , Nishibori M , Tanaka N , Tanemoto K
Published: February 2013

We examined the effects of β2-adrenergic receptor (β2-AR) agonists on the expression of co-stimulatory molecules on lipopoly-saccharide (LPS)-stimulated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The study found that β2-AR agonists inhibited the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), CD40 and CD14 on monocytes, and that AR agonist activity was antagonized by the selective β2-AR antagonist, butoxamine. The selective β2-AR agonists salbutamol and terbutaline induced a similar co-stimulatory molecule expression pattern. The LPS-induced production of tumour necrosis factor-α was inhibited by AR agonists, and this was also antagonized by butoxamine, and mimicked by salbutamol and terbutaline. The AR agonists also inhibited T-cell proliferation through β2-AR stimulation. This study clearly demonstrated that endogenous catecholamines elicited immunosuppressive effects through β2-AR stimulation, possibly due to down-regulation of the expression of ICAM-1, CD40 and CD14 on monocytes. These results suggested that the sympathetic nervous system might regulate the T-helper cell balance via the peripheral end-effectors of the stress system.
Effect of Anti-Cancer Drugs on the Binding of 125I-Fibrinogen to Two Leukaemia Cell Lines In Vitro
Authors: Lu DY , Chi J , Lin LP , Huang M , Xu B , Ding J
Published: February 2013

Anti-cancer drugs may be able to inhibit tumour growth and metastasis by blocking fibrinogen- and/or fibrin-related pathways. To test this hypothesis, the effect of various anti-neoplastic drugs on the binding of 125I-Fibrinogen to two leukaemia cell lines, HL60 and P388, was investigated. All the drugs tested inhibited the binding of fibrinogen to leukaemia cells. This effect was particularly marked for drugs that act as inhibitors of protein synthesis. Since these anti-neoplastic drugs do not have anti-coagulant actions, these results provide evidence for the potential of targeting tumour fibrinogen as a new form of cancer chemotherapy.
Antibacterial Activity and Clinical Efficacy of Sparfloxacin in Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare Complex Infection
Authors: Horiguchi T , Kondo R , Miyazaki J , Shiga M , Sugiyama M , Handa M , Munekata E
Published: February 2013

In Japan the incidence of atypical mycobacteriosis has steadily increased, with Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare complex (MAC) the most common infecting organism. A standard chemotherapy regimen for MAC infection has not been established because of significant resistance to anti-mycobacterial drugs. Sparfloxacin has good antimicrobial activity against several acid-fast bacteria and is expected to be an effective drug for treating mycobacteriosis. We examined the effects of adding sparfloxacin to anti-tuberculotic combination therapy in six patients with MAC pulmonary disease. Drug susceptibility was also assessed using the agar dilution method. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for sparfloxacin, levofloxacin, isoniazid, rifampicin, streptomycin, ethambutol and clarithromycin was measured in clinical isolates from all patients; sparfloxacin showed the lowest MIC. Bacteriological and clinical improvements were observed in the four patients who completed the study. Dosing was discontinued in two patients because of pruritic skin eruptions. Sparfloxacin shows promise as an anti-mycobacterial agent for treating MAC pulmonary disease.
Impedance Pharyngography to Assess Swallowing Function
Authors: Kusuhara T , Nakamura T , Shirakawa Y , Mori K , Naomoto Y , Yamamoto Y
Published: February 2013

We evaluated impedance pharyngography (IPG), a new method to assess swallowing function based on changes in the electrical impedance of the neck during swallowing. The electrical impedance of the neck, recorded by the 4-electrode method, changed with the equivalent cross-sectional area of the route of the electric current due to reflex activities of related organs during swallowing. IPG waveforms accurately recorded the swallowing process, therefore. We recommend IPG for assessing swallowing function because we expect IPG to provide the following advantages over conventional diagnostic techniques: it is a quantitative method that allows for the objective assessment of swallowing function; it is a simple procedure that is convenient for the patient and could be used for screening; it is inexpensive and non-invasive, so could be performed repeatedly in situations such as rehabilitation; and it uses highly portable equipment suitable for community use.
Anti-proliferative Effects of Oridonin on SPC-A-1 Cells and its Mechanism of Action
Authors: Liu JJ , Huang RW , Lin DJ , Peng J , Wu XY , Pan XL , Li MQ , Lin Q
Published: February 2013

Oridonin, an extract from the Chinese herb Rabdosia rubescens, is currently one of the most important traditional Chinese herbal medicines. We investigated the anti-proliferative effect of oridonin on the lung cancer cell line SPC-A-1 and its mechanism of action. Growth inhibition was measured using a microculture tetrazolium assay and apoptosis was measured by several standard methods. Western blot analysis measured the expression of bcl-2 and bax proteins. Oridonin (> 28 μmol/l) inhibited the growth of SPC-A-1 cells and induced apoptosis. Marked morphological changes indicative of apoptosis were observed, especially in cells treated with oridonin for 48–60 h. Western blot analysis revealed downregulation of bcl-2 and upregulation of bax proteins following treatment with oridonin for 48 h. We conclude that oridonin demonstrated anti-proliferative and apoptosis-inducing effects on SPC-A-1 cells in vitro, and that changes in bcl-2 and bax protein levels may play an important role in its mechanism of action.
Predictive Value of Risk Factors in Patients with Obstructive Jaundice
Authors: Pitiakoudis M , Mimidis K , Tsaroucha AK , Papadopoulos V , Karayiannakis A , Simopoulos C
Published: February 2013

Clinical and laboratory parameters that may affect post-operative mortality and morbidity were studied in 215 patients operated on for obstructive jaundice. The cause of the bile duct obstruction was benign disease in 56.7% of patients and malignant disease in 43.3%. Overall postoperative mortality and morbidity rates were 21.9% and 33.5%, respectively. Eight risk factors were shown to be associated with increased mortality: age < 70 years; malignancy; leucocytosis < 15 000 cells/μl and fever < 38.5°C; haematocrit ≤ 30%; creatinine < 1.3 mg/dl; albumin ≤ 3 g/dl; bilirubin < 20 mg/dl; and serum alkaline phosphatase > 100 IU/l. The simultaneous presence of less than three risk factors was always associated with post-operative survival, but concomitant existence of seven or more risk factors indicated 100% mortality. Understanding the factors related to post-operative morbidity and mortality in patients with obstructive jaundice will better guide appropriate surgical or non-surgical management and lead to improved survival.
Plasma Adiponectin Levels in Post-menopausal Women Receiving Hormone Replacement Therapy
Authors: Sumino H , Takahashi T , Itoh T , Kusaka K , Yamakawa J , Ichikawa S , Kurabayashi M , Kanda T
Published: February 2013

This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between plasma adiponectin levels and plasma lipid and lipoprotein levels in post-menopausal women (PMW) receiving hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Various clinical and biochemical parameters, including plasma lipid and lipoprotein concentrations and adiponectin levels, were measured in 54 healthy PMW before and after 3 and 6 months of HRT. Control groups consisted of women aged < 40 years ( n = 20) or > 60 years ( n = 17). PMW had significantly lower baseline adiponectin levels compared with the younger or older control groups, but adiponectin concentrations were not significantly altered after 3 or 6 months of HRT. Adiponectin levels in PMW were positively correlated with plasma high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels and were negatively correlated with body mass index and triglyceride levels. Our data suggest that circulating adiponectin may contribute to lipid homeostasis in PMW. Further studies are needed to elucidate the effects of HRT and oestrogen on adiponectin levels.
Combination Treatment using the COX-2 Inhibitor Meloxicam and an Anti-allergic in Pollinosis
Authors: Takechi M
Published: February 2013

The value of combination therapies that aim to affect both immediate and delayed inflammatory reactions is well known in the treatment of pollinosis. Use of a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor such as meloxicam is a new approach, however. COX-2 inhibitors target the delayed reaction, which plays a major role in chronic nature of this allergic reaction through activation of the arachidonate cascade and the production of prostaglandins. In this study, four treatment regimens were compared for effectiveness in relieving the symptoms of pollinosis: (i) an anti-allergic alone; (ii) an anti-allergic plus a conventional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug; (iii) an anti-allergic plus a selective COX-2 inhibitor; and (iv) an antiallergic plus an oral steroid. Use of a COX-2 inhibitor plus an anti-allergic produced significantly more relief for most symptoms. The significance of this is as yet unclear, but it is hoped that these results will further our understanding of chronic inflammation.
Trends in Major Transfusion-transmissible Infections among Blood Donors over 17 Years in Istanbul, Turkey
Authors: Kocak N , Hepgul S , Ozbayburtlu S , Altunay H , Ozsoy MF , Kosan E , Aksu Y , Yilmaz G , Pahsa A
Published: February 2013

Infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and syphilis are serious complications of blood transfusion. These infections are routinely screened by blood banks; such tests are obligatory for transfusion safety in Turkey. The results of screening 1 737 943 blood donations from blood centres in Istanbul between 1 January 1987 and 31 December 2003 for HBV, HCV, HIV and syphilis were analysed retrospectively. Hepatitis B surface antigen rates fell from 5.98% in 1987 to 2.07% in 2003. Anti-HCV seropositivity was found to be approximately 0.5%, whereas anti-HIV seropositivity was approximately 0.001%. Rapid plasma reagin rates (test for syphilis) were 0.04% in 1987, and increased to 0.2% in 2002. The decreasing trends observed in data from the 17-year period studied indicate the value of safety measures taken, in particular the implementation of donor screening procedures in 1997.
Effects of Sevoflurane, Isoflurane and Propofol Infusions on Post-Operative Recovery Criteria in Geriatric Patients
Authors: Arar C , Kaya G , Karamanlioğlu B , Pamukçu Z , Turan N
Published: February 2013

We compared the effects of sevoflurane, isoflurane and propofol infusions on postoperative recovery criteria in geriatric patients. Sixty patients aged > 65 years, classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) group 1 or 2 and undergoing gynaecological or urological procedures were randomized equally into three groups. Group 1 received 1 minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) sevoflurane in a 50% O2/N2O mixture and group 2 received 1 MAC isoflurane in a 50% O2/N2O mixture. Group 3 received a 50% O2/N2O mixture plus propofol total intravenous anaesthesia (8 mg/kg for the first 30 min, followed by 6 mg/kg for maintenance). Recovery criteria comprising the times to spontaneous eye opening, extubation, response to verbal stimuli and orientation were recorded following the discontinuation of anaesthesia. Recovery times were significantly shorter in groups 1 and 3 compared with group 2. We conclude that sevoflurane and propofol had similar effects on recovery criteria and were associated with a faster recovery than isoflurane.
An Alternative, Less Invasive Approach to Median Sternotomy for Cardiac Operations in Adults: Right Infra-Axillary Minithoracotomy
Authors: Tünerir B , Aslan R
Published: February 2013

We compared the use of right infra-axillary minithoracotomy and conventional median sternotomy in direct open-heart surgery in 59 adults undergoing elective surgery for mitral valve stenosis, mitral valve disease, atrial septal defect repair, left atrial myxoma excision or mitral and tricuspid valve disease. Patients were randomized to the infra-axillary minithoracotomy group (Group A; n = 29) or the median sternotomy group (Group B; n = 30). Post-operative outcomes (post-operative bleeding; cross-clamp time; length of hospital and intensive care unit stays; and postoperative blood transfusion and analgesic requirements) were recorded and compared; they were found to be significantly lower in Group A than Group B. We concluded that right infra-axillary minithoracotomy is less invasive and can be used safely in adults as an alternative approach to conventional median sternotomy for some cardiac operations. Further multicentre studies in adults are now needed.
Effect of Carboxylesterase Inhibition on the Anti-Tumour Effects of Irinotecan
Authors: Morishita Y , Fujii M , Kasakura Y , Takayama T
Published: February 2013

Irinotecan (CPT-11) is an important anticancer agent activated by carboxylesterase (CE). Treatment with CPT-11 may be associated with severe adverse effects, however, so determining the optimal dose would greatly benefit patients. We investigated the relationship between the anti-tumour effects of CPT-11 and CE concentration using bis- p-nitrophenylphosphate (BNPP), a specific inhibitor of CE, in nude mice with xenograft tumours. Initial experiments showed that the optimal dose of CPT-11 was 100 mg/kg. This dose was then used to study the anti-tumour effects of CPT-11 with and without BNPP. A direct correlation was found between the dose of administered BNPP and the growth rate of the tumour, demonstrating that the anti-tumour effects of CPT-11 were related to the CE concentration. Measuring the concentration of CE may allow the optimum dose of CPT-11 to be determined, opening up the possibility of individualized chemotherapy programmes.
Ulcerative Colitis Activity Index: A Useful Prognostic Factor for Predicting Ulcerative Colitis Outcome
Authors: Gürel S , Kiyici M
Published: February 2013

We evaluated the usefulness of various parameters in predicting the prognosis of ulcerative colitis. The records of 73 patients with ulcerative colitis were examined retrospectively. Patients were divided into two groups according to whether they had received only 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA; n = 26) or glucocorticoids and/or azathioprine with or without 5-ASA ( n = 47). The disease extent, endoscopic activity and ulcerative colitis activity index (UCAI) before therapy were recorded, together with the disease outcome. No statistically significant differences in outcome were observed in relation to therapy group, disease extent or endoscopic activity. UCAI had a significant effect on outcome, however: patients with lower UCAI values were more likely to remain in remission and less likely to require urgent surgery or experience a fatal outcome than those with higher UCAI values. This difference was apparent in both treatment groups. Thus a high pre-treatment UCAI may indicate a worse outcome.
Enlargement of Post-Traumatic Intracerebral Haematoma: Incidence and Time Course
Authors: Liu WG , Yao Y , Zhou JY , Yang XF
Published: February 2013

We retrospectively assessed the incidence and time course of enlargement in posttraumatic intracerebral haematoma (PTICH). Computed tomography (CT) scans from 165 patients who underwent a scan within 72 h and a repeat scan within 120 h of the onset of trauma were examined. A semi-automated method using region deformation-based segmentation was used to calculate the haematoma volume. The presence of haematoma enlargement was also determined based on a consensus by five observers. Seventy cases (42%) showed enlargement of the haematoma. The frequency of haematoma enlargement decreased as the interval between the onset of trauma and the initial scan increased. The discriminant value of the ratio of the haematoma volume in the second scan to that in the initial scan was ascertained, and the cut-off value for haematoma enlargement was determined to be 1.45. The radiographic criterion for enlargement in PTICH on CT scan was, therefore, defined as a ≥ 1.45 times increase in haematoma volume.
Effect of Antihypertensive Therapy on Blood Rheology in Patients with Essential Hypertension
Authors: Sumino H , Nara M , Seki K , Takahashi T , Kanda T , Ichikawa S , Goto-Onozato K , Koya S , Murakami M , Kurabayashi M
Published: February 2013

Hypertension is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and antihypertensive drugs can decrease the occurrence of such events in hypertensive patients. This study compared the rheological properties of blood in 22 untreated hypertensive patients, 42 patients taking antihypertensive drugs and 74 normotensive subjects. Using a microchannel method, the whole blood passage time was measured and blood movement was observed with a microscope connected to an image display unit. The blood passage time in untreated hypertensive patients was significantly higher than in treated hypertensive patients or normotensive subjects, but was similar in the latter two groups. Microscopic observations showed that platelet aggregation and leucocyte adhesion were increased in untreated hypertensive patients, resulting in poor flow, while blood samples from treated hypertensive patients and normotensive subjects passed smoothly through the microchannels. These rheological differences could contribute to the decrease in cardiovascular disease seen when hypertensive patients are treated effectively.
Gastric Carcinoma and Thyroid Status
Authors: Kandemir EG , Yonem A , Narin Y
Published: February 2013

Gastric carcinoma is reported to be more frequent in geographical areas where diets are either iodine-deficient or iodine-excessive. Reports have also shown an association between thyroid diseases and some of the risk factors for gastric carcinoma. We investigated the frequency of thyroid disorders in 61 patients with gastric carcinoma compared with 55 healthy control subjects. Thyroid health was evaluated by physical examination and by measuring the serum levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid autoantibodies. More patients with gastric cancer had goitre compared with healthy controls (49.1% versus 20%, respectively). Significantly more patients with gastric cancer had non-toxic goitre compared with control subjects. There was also a significant difference in the incidence of autoimmune thyroid disease −27.8% of patients with gastric cancer versus 10.9% of control subjects were affected. These results indicate that there is a significant association between gastric cancer and thyroid disorders.
Adiponectin, T-cadherin and Tumour Necrosis Factor-α in Damaged Cardiomyocytes from Autopsy Specimens
Authors: Takahashi T , Saegusa S , Sumino H , Nakahashi T , Iwai K , Morimoto S , Nojima T , Kanda T
Published: February 2013

This study determined the presence of adiponectin, T-cadherin (an adiponectin receptor) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in damaged myocytes from autopsied patients with acute or old myocardial infarction (MI) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), using immunohistochemical staining. The enrolled patients included eight with acute MI, six with old MI and seven with DCM. Four autopsied individuals with no cardiac lesions were also enrolled as controls. Adiponectin and TNF-α were not observed in normal myocytes from control subjects, but T-cadherin was weakly detected. Immunoreactivity for adiponectin and T-cadherin was observed at the periphery of damaged myocytes from MI and DCM patients; intracellular reactivity for TNF-α was also seen. There were no statistically significant differences in the degree of reactivity for each molecule in the myocytes between the MI and DCM patients. These results suggest that the presence of adiponectin and TNF-α in damaged myocytes may contribute to the processes of myocardial injury occurring in MI and DCM.
Usefulness of Induced Sputum and Fibreoptic Bronchoscopy Specimens in the Diagnosis of Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Saglam L , Akgun M , Aktas E
Published: February 2013

We investigated the diagnostic value of induced sputum (IS) and bronchial lavage (BL) specimens in patients with suspected pulmonary tuberculosis who had negative spontaneous sputum specimens or who were unable to produce sputum spontaneously. IS specimens and BL specimens obtained using flexible fibreoptic bronchoscopy from 55 patients were evaluated for the presence of acid-fast bacilli (AFB) and cultured for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Positive results were found with IS smear in 23 patients, BL smear in 26 patients, and IS or BL culture in 42 patients. Culture of BL specimens had a higher sensitivity than IS or BL smears or culture of IS specimens. The highest sensitivity rate was obtained with a positive BL or IS culture (86%). For early diagnosis (a positive IS or BL smear), the sensitivity was 57%. IS has a higher sensitivity rate than spontaneous sputum for the detection of tuberculosis, and fibreoptic bronchoscopy is useful for the early diagnosis of tuberculosis when AFB are not detected in spontaneous or induced sputum specimens.
A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Study on the Clinical Efficacy of Oral Treatment with DermaVite™ on Ageing Symptoms of the Skin
Authors: Thom E
Published: February 2013

In this double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 40 women with ageing symptoms of the skin were randomized to receive DermaVite™, a new preparation containing marine proteins, α-lipoic acid, pine bark extract, vitamins and minerals ( n = 20), or placebo ( n = 20) twice daily for 6 months. Objective measurements of skin thickness and elasticity, together with subjective clinical assessments of various parameters (fine wrinkles, coarse wrinkles, tactile roughness and teleangiectasia) were used to evaluate changes after 2, 4 and 6 months' treatment. Self-evaluations were also made by the study participants. There was a significant improvement in skin quality in both objective and subjective parameters after treatment with Dermavite™ compared with placebo. Participants' self-evaluations also showed a statistically significant difference in favour of the active treatment. The treatment was very well tolerated. Based on this efficacy and tolerability study, DermaVite™ can be considered a suitable therapy for ageing symptoms of the skin.
Minimum Effective Dosage in the Treatment of Chronic Atopic Dermatitis with Itraconazole
Authors: Takechi M
Published: February 2013

Fungi including Malassezia furfur and Candida albicans are involved in the development of atopic dermatitis (AD), due to increased sensitivity to these allergens or increased serum immunoglobulin E levels in AD patients. Previously, I reported successful treatment of AD with oral administration of the anti-mycotic agent, itraconazole. Recently, I developed protocols for AD treatment, based on the determined minimum effective dose. Three oral administration regimens with itraconazole were studied: single-phase treatment (regimen 1), 100 mg/day for 1 week with a 3-week rest, repeating; regimen 2, 200 mg/week for 4 weeks, repeating; and dual-phase treatment (regimen 3), 100 mg/day for 1 week (introduction phase) then 200 mg/week (maintenance phase) for 11 weeks. For regimens 1 and 2, each treatment cycle was 4 weeks, and three cycles were undertaken. Each regimen was completed in 12 weeks. All three regimens reduced AD symptoms, regimen 3 being the most effective and efficient therapy as evaluated by overall efficacy and low drop-out rate.
Intrathecal Ropivacaine versus Ropivacaine plus Fentanyl for Out-patient Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
Authors: Boztuğ N , Bigat Z , Ertok E , Erman M
Published: February 2013

We evaluated the effects of low-dose intrathecal ropivacaine with or without fentanyl for arthroscopic knee surgery. Fifty patients were randomized in equal groups to receive an intrathecal solution (3 ml) containing either 10 mg isobaric ropivacaine or 8 mg isobaric ropivacaine plus 25 μg fentanyl. Complete motor blockade occurred in 22 patients (88%) in both groups. The time taken to reach sensory blockade to T10 and total motor blockade was shorter in the ropivacainetreated group, but differences were not statistically significant. The duration of sensory and motor blockade was shorter in the ropivacaine plus fentanyl-treated group. The cephalad spread of sensory blockade was higher with ropivacaine than with ropivacaine plus fentanyl. We conclude that although 25 μg fentanyl added to 8 mg ropivacaine provided shorter motor and sensory blockade durations than 10 mg ropivacaine alone, small doses of ropivacaine plus fentanyl can be used safely for arthroscopic knee surgery.
Effect of Administration of Ketorolac and Local Anaesthetic Infiltration for Pain Relief after Laparoscopic-assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy
Authors: Kim JH , Lee YS , Shin HW , Chang MS , Park YC , Kim WY
Published: February 2013

The efficacy of local anaesthetic infiltration and/or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for post-operative analgesia following laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH) was investigated in 83 patients, randomized into four groups in this double-blind, placebo-controlled study: group BK, local infiltration with bupivacaine and pre-incisional intramuscular (IM) ketorolac; group NN, saline local infiltration IM; group BN, local infiltration with bupivacaine and saline IM; group NK, local infiltration with saline and ketorolac IM. Post-operative pain scores were assessed at 1 h, 3 h, 6 h, 12 h and 24 h using a visual analogue scale (VAS). The major pain site, first analgesic request time and incidence of analgesic requests were also recorded. At 1 h, 3 h and 6 h after surgery, group BK patients had significantly lower VAS pain scores than group NN patients. The first analgesic request time was significantly longer in group BK than in groups NN, BN and NK. Pre-incisional treatment with ketorolac IM and local infiltration with bupivacaine reduced post-operative pain after LAVH.
Predictive Value of C-reactive Protein in Patients with Unstable Angina Pectoris Undergoing Coronary Artery Stent Implantation
Authors: Karaca I , Aydin K , Yavuzkir M , Ilkay E , Akbulut M , Isik A , Arslan N
Published: February 2013

In-stent restenosis is a major problem following coronary stent implantation, and inflammation plays an active role. We evaluated the effectiveness of the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein (CRP) as a predictor of in-stent restenosis after successful stent implantation, in 86 patients with unstable angina pectoris. Plasma CRP was measured in all patients before the procedure, and at 48-72 h and 1, 2 and 3 months post-procedure. An angiographic loss of 50% at follow-up was accepted as in-stent restenosis. We found negative and positive predictive values of the pre-procedural plasma CRP for determining 6-month in-stent restenosis of 34% and 61%, respectively. We also found a strong correlation between the 3-month post-procedural CRP value and 6-month in-stent restenosis; the negative and positive predictive values being 8% and 76%, respectively. In conclusion, we showed that a plasma CRP value > 3 mg/l in the third month after coronary stent implantation was a strong predictor of angiographic in-stent restenosis.
Effects of Levosimendan on Left Ventricular Functional Remodelling and Exercise Intolerance: A Tissue Doppler Study
Authors: Kasikcioglu HA , Unal S , Tartan Z , Uyarel H , Okmen E , Kasikcioglu E , Cam N
Published: February 2013

Levosimendan is a calcium sensitizer that demonstrates enhanced myocardial contractility. There is little information concerning the effect of levosimendan on left ventricular tissue parameters and exercise capacity. We evaluated the effects of a 24-h course of levosimendan therapy on cardiac tissue parameters in 30 patients, aged 48-70 years, admitted to our hospital for the management of decompensated heart failure. All patients underwent echocardiographic examination using tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) and a 6-min walk test. Systolic myocardial velocity of the mitral annulus (Sm) was significantly increased in levosimendantreated patients compared with placebotreated patients. There was a positive correlation between Sm and exercise capacity. Levosimendan might be expected to increase cardiac contractile force, especially Sm velocity, in parallel with exercise tolerance. The study has also shown that the progress of ventricular function after levosimendan treatment in patients with exercise intolerance could be monitored effectively by Sm velocity measurements using TDI.
The Necessity of Chest Physical Therapy for Thoracoscopic Oesophagectomy
Authors: Nakatsuchi T , Otani M , Osugi H , Ito Y , Koike T
Published: February 2013

Radical surgery for thoracic oesophageal cancer is highly invasive and often leads to respiratory complications; thoracoscopic surgery is a less-invasive alternative. We examined the need for chest physical therapy (CPT) after thoracoscopic oesophagectomy. Thirty-six consecutive patients, randomly selected for either thoracotomy or thoracoscopic surgery, were included in a randomized clinical trial and received CPT under the same protocol. During short-term post-operative follow-up, both groups showed a marked reduction in respiratory function and responded to CPT to the same extent, although 2 weeks after surgery some parameters of respiratory function were significantly higher in the thoracoscopy group. Thoracoscopic surgery has been reported to be less invasive than standard thoracotomy, but our results suggest that the procedure is also invasive with respect to respiratory function and that CPT should be performed before and after thoracoscopic surgery.
Feasibility of Measuring 5-Fluorouracil Catabolic Potential by Oral Loading
Authors: Watabe S , Sengoku H , Kawai K , Matsuda M , Sakamoto K , Kamano T
Published: February 2013

The efficacy of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) treatment and the incidence of adverse events differ among patients and depend to some extent on individual variations in drug catabolism. This feasibility study aimed to determine the optimum conditions for a 5-FU oral load test, which would allow the simple evaluation of individual differences in 5-FU catabolism. Patients with colon cancer were given oral 5-FU (200 mg/day) for 3 days ( n = 36) or a single 100 mg dose ( n = 14). Serum concentrations of uracil, dihydrouracil, 5-FU and 5-fluoro-5, 6-dihydrouracil were measured before and after 5-FU administration. The results suggested that a decline in 5-FU metabolism was associated with continuous administration and increasing age. We conclude that a continuous load of 5-FU is necessary in order to predict the efficacy and side-effects of the drug. The 3-day regimen, with its ease of administration, merits further study to assess its possible clinical application.
Effect of Fresh Gas Flow on Isoflurane Concentrations during Low-flow Anaesthesia
Authors: Park J-Y , Kim J-H , Kim W-Y , Chang M-S , Kim J-Y , Shin H-W
Published: February 2013

The effect of fresh gas flow (FGF) on isoflurane concentrations at given vaporizer settings during low-flow anaesthesia was investigated. Ninety patients (American Society of Anaesthesiologists physical status I or II) were randomly allocated to three groups (FGF 1 l/min, FGF 2 l/min and FGF 4 l/min). Anaesthesia was maintained for 10 min with vaporizer setting isoflurane 2 vol% and FGF 4 l/min for full-tissue anaesthetic uptake in a semi-closed circle system. Low-flow anaesthesia was maintained for 20 min with end-tidal isoflurane 1.5 vol% and FGF 2 l/min. FGF was then changed to FGF 1 l/min, FGF 2 l/min or FGF 4 l/min. Measurements during the 20-min period showed that inspired and end-tidal isoflurane concentrations decreased in the FGF 1-l/min group but increased in the FGF 4-l/min group compared with baseline values. No haemodynamic changes were observed. Monitoring of anaesthetic concentrations and appropriate control of vaporizer settings are necessary during low-flow anaesthesia.
Histopathological Effects of Dietary Fusarium Graminearum on Rat Duodenum
Authors: Özbek E , Özbek A , Calik Z
Published: February 2013

Microscopic pathology of duodenum in rats exposed to Fusarium graminearum, a fungus infecting small-grain cereals, was investigated. Intestinal haemorrhage was observed macroscopically in one of the rats. Light microscopy demonstrated detachments between the surface epithelium and the lamina propria and severe interstitial oedema in the lamina propria in the test group. Electron microscopy identified epithelial absorptive cells with highly expanded endoplasmic reticulum tubules, abundant cytoplasmic vesicles containing electron-lucent materials, swollen mitochondria with spongiform appearance, and prominent cellular swelling. Other observations included opening of junctional complexes between epithelial cells lining the duodenum, highly enlarged intercellular spaces in duodenal epithelium, and numerous eosinophilic granulocytes and mast cells in the lamina propria. These findings indicate that dietary F. graminearum causes epithelial cell and connective tissue damage in rat duodenum. This is the first histopathological study showing that F. graminearum ingestion is associated with duodenal damage.
Prognostic Value of Viable Myocardium in Patients with Non-Q-wave and Q-wave Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Baran I , Ozdemir B , Gullulu S , Kaderli AA , Senturk T , Aydinlar A
Published: February 2013

This study assessed the amount and prognostic value of myocardial viability in patients with non-Q-wave myocardial infarction (NQMI) and Q-wave myocardial infarction (QMI). A total of 175 patients with MI and an ejection fraction ≤ 45% underwent dobutamine stress echocardiography. On the basis of clinical criteria and myocardial viability, 110 patients were revascularized. The amount of viable myocardium and the clinical outcome were compared in the NQMI and QMI groups. Patients with NQMI exhibited a larger amount of viable myocardium compared with those with QMI. The mortality rate was 6% in patients with NQMI with viable myocardium and subsequent revascularization, 33% in patients with NQMI without viable myocardium or revascularization, 27% in patients with QMI with viable myocardium and subsequent revascularization, and 33% in patients with QMI without viable myocardium or revascularization. In conclusion, our data suggest that patients with NQMI and viable myocardium have the best prognosis after revascularization.
DNA Vaccine against Hamster Oral Papillomavirus-associated Oral Cancer
Authors: Maeda H , Kubo K , Sugita Y , Miyamoto Y , Komatsu S , Takeuchi S , Umebayashi T , Morikawa S , Kawanishi K , Kameyama Y
Published: February 2013

Previously we developed a carcinogenesis model involving the combination of 9, 10-dimethyl-1, 2-benzanthracene (DMBA) application with physical wounding of hamster lingual mucosa. The presence of a novel hamster oral papillomavirus (HOPV) was demonstrated and its genome sequenced. In the present study, this HOPV hamster model was used to test whether vaccination with the L1 gene could prevent the development of oral carcinoma. DNA plasmids encoding the L1 gene or the vector alone were injected intramuscularly into 20 vaccinated and 20 control hamsters, respectively. The lingual tips of the hamsters were painted with DMBA for 8 weeks. A portion of the lingual tips was excised, and the tips were then painted daily with DMBA until the animals were killed 13 days later. All control hamsters developed lingual carcinoma, whereas 12 of the L1-vaccinated hamsters showed no lesions. These results suggest that immunization with L1 DNA vaccines may prevent the development of papillomavirus-associated oral cancer.
Amyloid β Protein Deposition in Osteopetrotic (op/op) Mice Is Reduced by Injections of Macrophage Colony Stimulating Factor
Authors: Kawata T , Tsutsui K , Kohno S , Kaku M , Fujita T , Tenjou K , Ohtani J , Motokawa M , Shigekawa M , Tohma Y , Tanne K
Published: February 2013

The deposition of amyloid β (Aβ) protein is a neuropathological change that characterizes Alzheimer's disease. Animals with the osteopetrosis (op/op) mutation suffer from a general skeletal sclerosis, a significantly reduced number of macrophages and osteoclasts in various tissues, and have no systemic macrophage colony stimulating factor (M-CSF). This study examined the effect that M-CSF injections had on Aβ deposition and microglial cell distribution in the brains of normal and op/op mice. Aβ-positive plaques were detected in the cerebral cortex of op/op mice, but not in normal mice. M-CSF reduced the numbers of Aβ-positive plaques in op/op mice. The microglial cell population was reduced in op/op mice compared with normal mice, and M-CSF increased the numbers to 65.8% of that observed in normal mice. Our results suggest that a clearer understanding of the role that microglial cells play in Aβ deposition may help determine the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease.
Usefulness of Sparfloxacin against Chlamydia pneumoniae Infection in Patients with Bronchial Asthma
Authors: Horiguchi T , Miyazaki J , Ohira D , Watanabe Y , Hayashi N , Kobayashi K , Torigoe T , Fukumoto K , Ito T , Hirose M , Sasaki Y , Shiga M , Kondo R , Handa M , Tachikawa S
Published: February 2013

The efficacy of Sparfloxacin (SPFX) for the control of bronchial asthma was evaluated in 26 patients with suspected Chlamydia pneumoniae infection. Patients were randomly allocated to receive SPFX 200 mg/day (n = 14) or control treatment (n = 12) for 21 days. Significant improvements in serum C-reactive protein levels, and significant decreases in peripheral eosinophil counts, serum eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) and sputum ECP were observed in the SPFX-treated group at day 21. SPFX-treated patients also had a significantly reduced frequency of asthma symptoms, reduced inhalant β2-stimulant use, and significant increases in morning peak expiratory flow. At the end of the study, C. pneumoniae was undetectable in two SPFX-treated patients who underwent polymerase chain reaction testing, but one control patient who was tested still had detectable levels of C. pneumoniae. These results suggest that SPFX could be used to control bronchial asthma in patients with suspected persistent C. pneumoniae infection.