bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Presence of Immunoglobulins in the Gastric Juice of Patients Infected With Helicobacter pylori is Related to a Reduced Secretion of Acid
Authors: Meining Alexander , Wick Manfred , Miehlke Stephan , Bayerdörffer Ekkehard , Stolte Manfred , Sackmann Michael , Ochsenkühn Thomas 
Published: March 2003

AbstractBackground. It has been reported that treatment with proton pump inhibitors (PPI) leads to partial elimination and suppression of Helicobacter pylori. In theory, since acid is known to denature immunoglobulins, this antibacterial activity of PPI may be due to a reduction in the acid output favouring humoral immunity.Materials and methods. We analysed prospectively fasting gastric juice in 54 consecutive patients attending upper endoscopy for pH and levels of IgG, IgA and IgM. In addition, two antral and two corpus biopsies were obtained and histologically examined for the presence of H. pylori.Results. 41/54 patients were infected with H. pylori. Immunoglobulines in the gastric juice of these patients were found in 25/41 (IgG), 27/41 (IgA), and 29/41 (IgM) patients. There was a highly significant difference in the gastric pH when H. pylori infected patients with measurable IgG, IgA, or IgM were compared with those in whom no immunoglobulines were found (median pH: 6 vs. 2 in each group; p < .001)Conclusions. There is a close correlation between a high gastric pH and the presence of IgG, IgA, and IgM antibodies. Hence, it may be speculated that the efficacy of humoral immunity following H. pylori infection depends on a high pH such as resulting from PPI treatment.
Vitamin C and E Supplements to Lansoprazole‐Amoxicillin‐Metronidazole Triple Therapy May Reduce the Eradication Rate of Metronidazole‐Susceptible Helicobacter pylori Infection
Authors: Chuang Chiao‐Hsiung , Sheu Bor‐Shyang , Huang Ay‐Huey , Yang Hsiao‐Bai , Wu Jiunn‐Jong 
Published: March 2003

AbstractAim. To test whether vitamin C and E supplements to triple therapy can improve the Helicobacter pylori eradication rate and gastric inflammation.Methods. A total of 104 H. pylori‐infected patients were randomized to receive: either lansoprazole, amoxicillin, and metronidazole twice daily for 1 week (triple‐only group) or lansoprazole, amoxicillin, metronidazole plus vitamin C (250 mg) and vitamin E (200 mg) twice daily for 1 week, followed immediately by vitamin C and E once daily for 6 consecutive weeks (triple‐plus‐vitamin group). Eight weeks after the completion of triple therapy, patients were assessed for the effectiveness of H. pylori eradication. The severity of gastric inflammation in histology was assessed for the acute and chronic inflammation scores.Results. Intention‐to‐treat and per‐protocol eradication rates were 59.1% and 64.4% in the triple‐only group, and 40% and 44% in the triple‐plus‐vitamin group. In the patients infected with metronidazole susceptible isolates, the triple‐only group had a higher intention‐to‐treat eradication rate than those in the triple‐plus‐vitamin group (80% vs. 53.1%, p < .01). However, for the metronidazole resistance isolates, the intention‐to‐treat eradication rates between the two groups were not different (26.3% vs. 21.7%, p = NS). The improvements of both acute and chronic inflammation scores in histology were not different between the two groups.Conclusion. Adding vitamin C and E to triple therapy cannot improve the H. pylori eradication rate and gastric inflammation. For patients with metronidazole susceptible strain infection, adding these vitamins may even reduce the eradication rate of triple therapy.
A Group‐Specific PCR Assay for the Detection of Helicobacteraceae in Human Gut
Authors: Bohr Ulrich R. M. , Primus Anett , Zagoura Alexandra , Glasbrenner Bernd , Wex Thomas , Malfertheiner Peter 
Published: March 2003

AbstractBackground. Enterohepatic Helicobacter species are emerging pathogens, which are increasingly isolated from humans with enteric diseases. Nevertheless, current methods to detect Helicobacteraceae in the human gut have significant limitations.Methods. Based on 16S‐rRNA gene alignments and computer aided primer analysis a set of group‐specific PCR primers was designed. The evaluation of the PCR assay was performed using 36 ATCC reference strains and intestinal biopsies from 10 patients with defined gastric Helicobacter pylori status. The amplification products derived from clinical samples were cloned and subsequently analyzed by DNA sequencing. Sensitivity of the PCR‐assay was determined by spiking previously negative tested samples with decreasing amounts of Helicobacter DNA.Results. The analysis of the ATCC reference strains revealed amplification products in all 14 Helicobacter strains and Wolinella succinogenes, 21 other microorganisms representing negative controls did not produce PCR fragments. Four out of the 10 patient‐derived samples were positive. Three of them represented H. pylori‐derived DNA confirming the gastric H. pylori infection in these patients. In the fourth patient, who was suffering from Crohn's disease, H. pullorum was identified. The sensitivity of the PCR assay was 0.1 pg of Helicobacter‐derived DNA representing about 40 bacteria.Conclusion. The novel PCR assay described here is an important new tool in rapid and sensitive assessment for the presence of Helicobacteraceae in human gut.
Acid Inhibitory Potency of Twice a Day Omeprazole is not Affected by Eradication of Helicobacter pylori in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Thomson Alan B. R. , Keelan Monika , Lastiwka Rosann , Appelman‐Eszcuck Sharon , Zuk Lori , Drozdowski Laurie , Prentice Anne , Sinclair Paul 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACTBackground & Aims. The acid inhibitory effect of proton pump inhibitors is reported to be greater in the presence than in the absence of an H. pylori infection. This study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that the acid inhibitory effect of omeprazole given twice a day is greater in H. pylori infected healthy volunteers than in the same individuals following eradication because of differences in the pharmacodynamics of omeprazole, greater duodenogastric reflux, the effects of ammonia produced by the H. pylori, or lower gastric juice concentrations of selected cytokines, which may inhibit gastric acid secretion.Materials and Methods. We undertook 24‐hour pH‐metry in 12 H. pylori‐positive healthy volunteers: (1) when on no omeprazole; (2) when on omeprazole 20 mg bid for 8 days; (3) 2 months after eradication of H. pylori and when on no omeprazole; and (4) after eradication of H. pylori and when on omeprazole 20 mg twice a day.Results. In subjects given omeprazole, eradication of H. pylori reduced pH and percentage pH ≥ 3, as well as increasing the area under the H+ concentration‐time curve. These differences were not due to alterations in (1) gastric juice concentrations of IL‐1α, IL‐8, IL‐13, epidermal growth factor, or bile acids; (2) serum gastrin concentrations; or (3) the pharmacokinetics of omeprazole. There was no change in the difference in the H+ concentration‐time curve ‘without omeprazole’ minus ‘with omeprazole’, when comparing ‘after’ versus ‘before’ eradication of H. pylori.Conclusions. Eradication of H. pylori was not associated with an alteration in the acid inhibitory potency when comparing the difference in gastric acidity ‘with’ versus ‘without’ omeprazole. When the results were expressed by simply taking into account the acid measurements while on omeprazole before versus after eradication of H. pylori, the acid inhibition with omeprazole was greater in the presence than in the absence of a H. pylori infection. The clinical significance of the small difference is not clear.
Working Toward Better Cancer Pain Management for Children
Authors: Anghelescu Doralina , Oakes Linda 
Published: March 2003

purpose: Management of the pain experienced by children with cancer is critical to minimize the psychological distress and physiologic responses to their illness and its treatment.overview: A team approach to providing care, using guidelines for pharmacologic management intertwined with nonpharmacologic strategies, while individualizing the care of a specific child, is required. Pain management must start with assessment using tools that are age appropriate and well suited to the clinical situation. Dosages of the recommended opioid and nonopioid medications that are suitable for children as well as the role of locally, systemically, and epidurally administered anesthetic agents are described by the authors.clinical implications: By following this practical approach, children can be prepared and supported during the various intensive oncology therapies often associated with pain that are now offered in the hope of improving the survival of children with cancer.
Importance of Format and Design in Print Patient Information
Authors: Frost Marlene Hanson , Thompson Romayne , Thiemann Kay Boeding 
Published: March 2003

PURPOSE: The purposes of this descriptive study were to: identify characteristics of print education materials that healthcare providers report as important to patients; compare whether Physician Data Query (PDQ) information that was provided in its original form, or was redesigned in color and black and white, influenced the distribution of this information; and explore whether providing PDQ information via patient information racks would increase patients' awareness of and use of PDQ information. DESCRIPTION OF STUDY: Forty‐four oncology healthcare professionals were asked to complete a survey identifying characteristics that they believed important for effective print educational materials. PDQ statements were reformatted and placed in brochure racks for a 6‐month period. The number of statements distributed before and after this time period were compared. Subsequently, PDQ statements were placed sequentially for a 3‐week period in brochure racks in the following formats: original form as printed from the computer, redesigned with color print; and redesigned with black ink only. RESULTS: The following characteristics were rated “very important” aspects of print educational materials by oncology healthcare professionals: appropriate reading level; clarity; credibility of the information; whether information is current/up‐to‐date; and patient acceptance of material. The characteristic receiving the fewest “very important” marks was attractiveness/eye appeal. The reported low marks on attractiveness/eye appeal contradict the concurrent findings that, after the redesign of PDQ statements (change in booklet size, use of color, increase in foot size for text and headings, and inclusion of a vertical bar to separate columns), there was a ninefold increase in the number PDQ statements distributed. Eighty‐nine percent of the statements distributed were the redesigned version. The use of color, however, did not appear to make a difference in the number of PDQ statements disseminated after the redesign. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: In developing print education materials for cancer patients, the format, design, and placement of materials for patient access need to be considered. There are many valuable educational materials available on computer databases. Downloading the information and placing it in a brochure format may be an ideal approach for providing access to this information. Furthermore, because physicians and nurses have different priorities for printed patient education materials, it is important to involve both groups in the developments of the brochures.
Self‐Advocacy Training for Cancer Survivors
Authors: Walsh‐Burke Katherine , Marcusen Carol 
Published: March 2003

objectives: With the advent of managed healthcare, self‐advocacy has been identified as an essential skill for cancer survivors. This article describes a self‐advocacy training program, the Cancer Survival Toolbox, developed through a unique collaborative effort by the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, the Association of Oncology Social Work, and the Oncology Nursing Society.materials and methods: Self‐advocacy training is provided in audiotape format, as well as through the Internet and in interactive groups. The need for this training was established through surveys completed by 569 cancer survivors and 833 oncology professionals. Essential skills were identified through a literature review, and the content of the training was pilot tested with bicoastal groups of cancer survivors and with feedback from representatives of 15 national cancer organizations.results: While the majority of the 569 respondents to the survivor survey were highly educated and between the ages of 31 and 60 years, fewer than half reported that when they first received a diagnosis of cancer they were able to communicate their needs effectively, had the skills necessary to make decisions, or were able to negotiate with healthcare providers, insurers, and employers. Results of the survey of professional oncology nurses and social workers also supported the need for self‐advocacy training. Fewer than one third of the 833 respondents to the professional survey reported that their patients who had received new diagnoses of cancer had essential self‐advocacy skills.conclusions: This self‐advocacy training program is currently available on audiotape in English and Spanish. It is available in print in Chinese on the Internet. Data from the pilot groups indicate the program effectively addresses the self‐advocacy skills of communication, information seeking, problem solving, decision making, and negotiating. Data are currently being collected to assess the efficacy of the audiotape format and the impact of the training on survivors and professionals. Future plans include training oncology professionals to teach these skills and to work collaboratively with survivors in advocacy efforts. Additional programs designed to address the needs of the uninsured as well as older adult and pediatric survivor populations are in development.
Training Oncology Camp Volunteers
Authors: Beder Joan 
Published: March 2003

Purpose: This article examines the training of oncology camp volunteers using a developmental and strengths perspective as a theoretical orientation. The literature on oncology camping, both empirical and anecdotal, is examined and relevant studies cited.Overview: The selection of volunteers, the benefits of the oncology camp experience, and a training model are discussed. It is the contention of the author that camp volunteers need an orientation for working with the campers, one that incorporates both a developmental framework and a perspective that highlights capacity and strength. Both orientations are explored, and their applications are highlighted.Clinical implications: The training of volunteers is a critical aspect of the oncology camp. In almost all oncology camps, volunteers form the staff complement. As such, their training and orientation to the campers is central to the summer experience for campers, volunteers, and staff. Administrators and camp directors are urged to incorporate some of the suggestions offered in this report to help ensure a positive summer experience.
Abnormal Mammogram Follow‐up
Authors: Ell Kathleen , Padgett Deborah , Vourlekis Betsy , Nissly Jan , Pineda Diana , Sarabia Olga , Walther Virginia , Blumenfield Susan , Lee Pey‐Jiuan 
Published: March 2003

purpose: The purpose of this study was to test an intervention (the Screening Adherence Follow‐up Program [SAFe]) that was designed to reduce the number of known barriers to diagnostic follow‐up adherence and initiation of treatment among women with low incomes who had abnormal mammogram findings.description of program: The investigators developed and implemented a highly structured, theory‐ and evidence‐based intervention that combined health education, counseling, and systems navigation, which was delivered by a team consisting of a peer counselor and a social worker who held a masters degree. A scripted baseline telephone interview identified potential barriers to follow‐up adherence and provided counseling interventions for each patient. Patients were assigned to different service intensities based on the level of risk for nonadherence. Patients with significant mental health symptoms, psychosocial stressors, or who had received a diagnosis of cancer were referred to the team social worker for further assessment and intervention. Patients also received reinforcing telephone follow‐up calls at 6 and 12 months.results: An observational pilot study of SAFe (N = 605) in two large urban diagnostic centers showed that 71% of women receiving SAFe were Hispanic, 18% were Black, and 11% were from other ethnic backgrounds. Adherence rates through diagnostic resolution and the initiation of treatment for women who had received a diagnosis of cancer were 93% and 90%, respectively, at the two study sites. Rates of adherence among women who could not be located or who refused study consent were significantly lower (72% and 69%, respectively). The rate of timely adherence was also higher among the women served. Patient satisfaction with SAFe was generally high.clinical implications: Study results support the combining of interventions and the practical utility of a clinical decision‐making algorithm to determine individualized nonadherence risk and to assign service intensity based on individual need. Problems in locating women for enrollment were experienced.
Coral Reef Ecosystems and Human Health: Biodiversity Counts!
Authors: Adey Walter H. 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACT The health of human populations requires a wide variety of chemical and physical supports from their associated ecosystems, as well as from the global ecosystem. Ecosystems can be “ecologically engineered” to improve the efficiency of that service, particularly when ecosystem health fails due to human overloads. Less well recognized is an entirely different dimension of ecosystem support of human populations; namely the pharmacological value of ecosystem biodiversity. Natural product chemistries are an extremely important resource in the ever‐expanding human battle with health degrading microbes.Coral reefs are the most diverse ecosystems in the sea and have the highest density of biodiversity globally. High diversity density gives rise to intense species competition and the subsequent organism capability to construct exotic defensive and offensive chemicals, many with pharmacological value. Coral reefs are being rapidly degraded, anthropogenically, both locally and globally. It is estimated that less than 10% of reef biodiversity is currently known and only a small fraction of that percent has been tested for “active compounds”. Many species extinctions are likely in the coming decades, and badly needed pharmacological potential will subsequently be lost.Sophisticated coral reef and reef organism culturing capability is now available that would allow the prospecting of reefs, the efficient analysis of organisms and eventually the mass culturing of those organisms for their secondary compounds without ecosystem damage. The economic value of this pharmaceutical potential needs to be directed by governments to an international crash project to conserve coral reefs and their biodiversity.
Menstrual Migraine With Features of Cluster Headache. A Report of 10 Cases
Authors: Robbins Lawrence 
Published: March 2003

Ten patients with menstrually related migraine headaches and significant features of cluster headache are described. The mean age of onset of the headache was 29 years. The duration of the pain was more typical for migraine, with an average of 3 days. The pain was sharp with associated tear formation and nasal congestion. Eight of the women described significant nausea. Only one reported any type of cluster headache outside of the menstrual time. Four patients experienced tension headaches, and four also had migraines not related to menses (without cluster features).Preventive medications were generally not helpful. The abortive medications that did help included sumatriptan, Cafergot PB® suppositories, and corticosteroids. Oxygen was useful in two patients. While analgesics did help three patients, lidocaine nasal spray was ineffective in four of the women.
Prevalence of Migraine and Headache in a High‐Altitude Town of Peru: A Population‐Based Study
Authors: Jaillard Assia S. , Mazetti Pilar , Kala Edwin 
Published: March 2003

A door‐to‐door population‐based epidemiological study of the prevalence of migraine and headache in a sample of 3246 people older than 15 years of age was carried out in Cuzco, a high‐altitude town in the Peruvian Andes, located at 3380 meters.Among the 3246 screened people, there were 172 cases of migraine and 930 cases of headache, yielding a crude 1‐year prevalence of 5.3% for migraine (2.3% among men and 7.8% among women) and 28.7% for headache (17.5% among men and 38.2% among women). Our results suggest that migraine prevalence in Cuzco is close to that of other developing countries, whereas headache prevalence may be higher than in other developing countries. Multivariate logistic regression suggested that both migraine and headache were related to the female sex, age, and anxiety and/or depression.This study suggests that migraine is a relatively common disorder in Cuzco, but does not show any difference which could be significantly related to altitude. In contrast, our results suggest that headache may be more frequent at high altitude than at sea level.
Effects of a Mass Media Behavioral Treatment for Chronic Headache: A Pilot Study
Authors: de Bruijn‐Kofman A.T. , van De Wiel H. , Groenman N.H. , Sorbi M.J. , Klip E. 
Published: March 2003

This article presents the results of a pilot study evaluating the efficacy of a mass media self‐help behavioral treatment program for chronic headache.The program consisted of a self‐help textbook, an exercise book, 10 television programs, 11 radio programs, and 3 audiocassettes with relaxation training. Approximately 15000 headache sufferers purchased the book and relaxation tapes. A random sample of 271 respondents participated in the effect study; the pretraining and posttraining data of 164 subjects were available for analysis.Multivariate testing of the pretraining and posttraining results showed highly significant reductions in headache activity and medication intake at 4‐month follow‐up. A reduction of 50% or more in headache parameters and medication intake was achieved by 40% to 60% of the patients. Work absenteeism was significantly reduced. The differences between the diagnostic groups were not significant. Mass media behavioral treatment seems to be a viable treatment alternative for chronic headache and highly promising in terms of gain in quality of life, decrease in economic loss, and cost‐effectiveness in health care.