Search

A study conducted at Takagi Hospital in Fukuoka, Japan aimed to evaluate gender differences in adverse events, gastrointestinal bleeding, and bone fractures among hemodialysis patients with end-stage renal failure. The study included 151 patients, divided into a female group of 61 and a male group of 90. The results showed that diabetes mellitus-induced end-stage renal failure was less common in females, and the mortality rate during hemodialysis was higher in males under 75 years old with lower bone fractures. The study concluded that female patients with end-stage renal failure treated by hemodialysis had a low mortality rate compared to male patients. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan, aimed to assess the relationship between histopathological features of gastric cancer and the extracellular volume fraction (ECV) measured by preoperative equilibrium contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT). The study included 66 patients with surgically resected gastric adenocarcinoma who underwent preoperative multiphasic CECT. The results showed that tumor ECV determined by equilibrium CECT is significantly correlated with the pathological infiltration pattern of gastric cancer. This research provides new insights into the diagnosis and understanding of gastric cancer. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan, examined the impact of early defibrotide (DF) therapy on pediatric patients with veno-occlusive disease (VOD) or sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) after stem cell transplantation. The study found that VOD/SOS occurred more frequently in the post-DF era, particularly in patients with relapsed/refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Early DF therapy was shown to reduce the severity of VOD/SOS and improve survival outcomes. The researchers noted that the incidence of VOD/SOS is increasing in the era of immunotherapy for progressive diseases. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Fukuoka Wajiro Hospital in Japan investigated the difficulties encountered when using a 7-F Optimo balloon guide catheter (BGC) for carotid artery stenting. The researchers found that navigating the BGC became challenging when the height from the topmost point of the subclavian artery (SA) to the origin of the SA was greater than 34 mm and the angle between the SA and the common carotid artery (CCA) was less than 30 degrees. The study concluded that transradial carotid artery stenting using the 7-F Optimo BGC is generally safe, but certain anatomical factors can make the procedure more difficult. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan, examined the severity of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections in Japanese infants and children. The researchers analyzed data from insurance claims and identified 1025 cases of RSV infection. They found that hospitalization for RSV was associated with younger age, palivizumab-indicated underlying conditions, and non-indicated high-risk conditions. Surprisingly, most hospitalized patients did not receive palivizumab, despite being eligible for it. The study suggests that appropriate use of palivizumab could prevent some hospitalizations due to RSV. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan, explores the role of female managers in enhancing employee well-being. The study, based on a large-scale job stress survey, found that the presence of women in management is associated with improved workplace resources and employee well-being, including reduced occupational stress, increased work engagement, and enhanced workplace cohesiveness. The study recommends promoting female representation at the management level and implementing policies that support female middle managers to ensure positive effects on workplace resources. This research provides empirical evidence supporting the transformational leadership behaviors of female managers and highlights the importance of sharing their experiences in improving employee psychological well-being. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the International University of Health & Welfare in Fukuoka, Japan, examined factors in individuals diagnosed with hyperglycemia during periodic medical checkups. The study included 9,324 subjects who visited Takagi Hospital for checkups in 2019. The researchers found that BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, and fatty liver were higher in cases of hyperglycemia compared to controls. They also identified several risk factors for hyperglycemia, including BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, triglyceride levels, ALT, and y-GTP. These risk factors were already elevated in individuals one or two years before the diagnosis of hyperglycemia. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan compared the adverse events (AEs) of two different combination therapies for advanced renal cell carcinoma. The study used a real-world dataset from the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System. The researchers found that the incidence rates of certain toxicities were higher for one combination therapy (cabozantinib plus nivolumab) compared to the other (ipilimumab plus nivolumab), while serious AEs were higher in patients receiving the latter combination. These findings may help clinicians select the most suitable therapy for individual patients and improve safety profiles. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan have conducted a study on the singlet fission characteristics of aqueous nanoparticles. They found that the structure of the ammonium molecule, the counterion, plays a crucial role in determining the molecular orientation, spectroscopic properties, and strength of intermolecular coupling between the tetracene chromophores. The use of chiral amines led to the formation of crystalline nanosheets and efficient singlet fission, while achiral counterions did not show singlet fission. The introduction of chirality provides new design guidelines for singlet fission materials. This research was funded by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, ENEOS Hydrogen Trust Fund, and Sumitomo Foundation. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan, explored the effects of certain components found in tea extracts on Bacillus cereus, a spore-forming foodborne pathogen that causes emetic and diarrheal food poisoning. The study found that epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg), theaflavin-3'-gallate (TF2b), and theaflavin-3,3'-gallate (TF3) had bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects on B. cereus by damaging the cellular membrane and inhibiting its growth. These components also suppressed the activity of a gene associated with cereulide production, the emetic toxin produced by B. cereus. The study suggests that these tea extracts may have potential as natural antimicrobial agents against B. cereus. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan, has developed edible films made of sodium alginate and kiwifruit seed essential oil (KSO) to enhance the quality and shelf life of persimmon fruit. The films were found to increase viscosity and opacity, improve thermal stability and elongation at break, and reduce weight loss in the fruit. The study suggests that incorporating sodium alginate with KSO could be a promising coating material for prolonging the shelf life of persimmon fruit, and partial coating may be a more economical alternative to full coating. The research has been peer-reviewed and published in the journal Food Packaging and Shelf Life. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Occupational and Environmental Health in Fukuoka, Japan, aimed to investigate the relationship between peripheral neuropathy in hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) and cumulative exposure index. The study surveyed 68 participants without symptoms and found that vibration tool handlers may have peripheral nerve lesions at a certain stage without experiencing subjective symptoms in their fingers. The research was supported by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in Japan and has been peer-reviewed. For more information, the study can be found in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the University of Kitakyushu in Fukuoka, Japan, explores the development and characterization of epichlorohydrin-crosslinked beta-cyclodextrin nanoparticles (beta CDNPs) for drug delivery. The study focuses on the interaction of these nanoparticles with hydrophobic drugs and their biocompatibility. The researchers found that beta CDNPs showed promise as drug delivery systems due to their improved solubility, stability, and safety profiles. The study also highlights the use of diffusion-ordered NMR spectroscopy (DOSY) to determine the enhanced binding constants of beta CDNPs with hydrophobic compounds. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan, discusses the anti-allergic potential of holostane-type saponins found in the black sea cucumber, Holothuria atra. The researchers isolated six saponin compounds and evaluated their inhibitory activity on beta-hexosaminidase release. Holothurin B showed the strongest inhibition and also alleviated inflammatory mediators. The study suggests that holostane-type saponins could be used as anti-allergy agents. This research has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights into the medicinal effects of sea cucumbers. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Kyushu University Hospital in Fukuoka, Japan, examined the association between non-institutional births and neonatal and infant mortality rates in Japan, as well as the sociodemographic characteristics of non-institutional births. The study analyzed vital statistics data from 2012 to 2021 for births and 2012 to 2022 for mortality. The results showed that non-institutional births, regardless of the attendance of a physician or midwife, were associated with higher neonatal and infant mortality rates. Factors such as non-urban regions, older maternal age groups, unmarried status of mothers, and non-Japanese mothers were found to be predictors of non-institutional births. The study highlights the importance of considering these factors in addressing neonatal and infant mortality in Japan. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan, explored the impact of hemoglobin levels on clinical outcomes in patients with advanced heart failure awaiting heart transplantation. The study found that lower hemoglobin levels were associated with a higher risk of heart failure hospitalization within one year. None of the patients in the study died within one year. The researchers concluded that hemoglobin level at the time of listing for heart transplantation can predict hospitalization in heart transplant candidates without intravenous inotropes or mechanical circulatory support. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from Fukuoka, Japan discusses the case of an 83-year-old man who had previously undergone coronary aorta bypass graft surgery and now required treatment for worsening angina. Coronary computed tomography angiography revealed total occlusion of the left main coronary artery, proximal obtuse marginal branch, and proximal right coronary artery, as well as other blockages. Coronary angiography confirmed these findings and showed limited blood flow to certain areas of the heart. The research concludes that the patient's symptoms were caused by significant myocardial ischemia. This research has been peer-reviewed and is available in the Journal of Invasive Cardiology. [Extracted from the article]

The article offers information on the treatment of hepatocellular adenomas (HCAs) in a patient with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) and congenital portosystemic shunt (CPSS) using transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE). Topics discussed include the association between CdLS and HCAs; the effectiveness of TAE in reducing tumor size; and the implications for managing liver tumors in patients with CdLS.

The article focuses on the development of protein-based Fc-binding antibody-recruiting molecules (Fc-ARMs) that can induce antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and their potential to overcome limitations of previous Fc-ARMs. Topics include the design and testing of protein-based Fc-ARMs with HER2-specific affibodies, the affinity of the Fc-ARMs for IgGs, and the requirement for further enhancement of the affinity of the antibody-binding terminus.

A report from Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan, discusses the use of bacteriophages and nisin to control multidrug-resistant Bacillus cereus in various food matrices. The researchers isolated and characterized six bacteriophages that showed activity against toxin-producing and multidrug-resistant strains of B. cereus. The most promising phage, vB_BceS-M2, demonstrated a broad host range and stability over a wide range of temperatures and pH values. When combined with nisin, the phage showed enhanced antimicrobial efficacy against B. cereus in food, reducing its growth rate. The study suggests that this combination could be an effective intervention against toxigenic and antibiotic-resistant B. cereus in food. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Fukuoka University in Japan explored the use of deep brain stimulation (DBS) as a treatment option for severe cases of Tourette syndrome (TS) that are unresponsive to medical and behavioral therapies. The study involved 14 patients who underwent centromedian thalamic DBS and were followed up for an average of 2.3 years. The results showed significant improvements in tic severity and impairment scores, although there were some challenges and adverse events associated with the surgery. The researchers concluded that a thorough understanding of brain anatomy is crucial for performing precise surgical procedures and achieving favorable outcomes with DBS for TS. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan discusses the findings of a study on community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) infections. The study analyzed the genome sequences of 151 CA-MRSA isolates, including those from an outbreak in a regional community. The analysis revealed that the outbreak was caused by two sublineages of the CA-MRSA clone already present in the region. The study also found that mobile genetic elements (MGEs) played a significant role in the genomic changes of the CA-MRSA clone during transmission in the community. This research provides insights into how CA-MRSA genomes evolve during community transmission and the involvement of MGEs in this process. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Occupational and Environmental Health in Fukuoka, Japan, aimed to evaluate the operative trends and compare the short-term outcomes of open and laparoscopic surgery for congenital biliary dilatation (CBD) in adults. The study analyzed data from 941 patients who underwent surgery for CBD at 357 hospitals in Japan between April 2016 and March 2021. The results showed that the rate of laparoscopic surgery for CBD has been increasing annually and had almost doubled to 25% by 2021. There were no significant differences in the in-hospital mortality rate or postoperative morbidity between the two groups. However, laparoscopic surgery had a longer length of anesthesia but shorter time to removal of the abdominal drain and length of hospital stay compared to open surgery. The cost of laparoscopic surgery was also higher. The researchers concluded that further investigation is needed to validate these findings and assess long-term outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan have developed magnesium-doped biphasic calcium phosphate (Mg-BCP) granules for bone regeneration. The granules, which were fabricated using the structural and chemical characteristics of sea urchin spines, have a controlled composition and porous structure that can promote osteogenesis and angiogenesis. The granules also have multiscale pores and surface undulations that improve cell penetration and attachment, bodily fluid permeability, and protein adsorption. The compressive strengths of the Mg-BCP granules make them suitable for use as bone grafts. The study concludes that these granules show promise as materials for bone regeneration. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted in Fukuoka, Japan, aimed to assess the effectiveness of an oral simulator in educating nursing students about oral diseases and symptoms. The study involved 105 first-year nursing students who participated in a lecture program and practical program using the simulator. The results showed that the students' oral assessment skills improved, along with their confidence and perception of oral assessment. However, their correct answer rates for assessing certain aspects of oral health were still low. The study highlights the need for further improvement in nursing students' oral assessment skills. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Fukuoka, Japan, explored the relationship between intermittent hypoxia and oxidative stress in patients with sleep apnea syndrome (SAS). The researchers aimed to evaluate the changes in oxidative stress caused by SAS treatment using a simple method that can be easily used in clinical testing. The study found that the changes in oxidative stress markers, reactive oxygen species metabolites (d-ROMs) and biological antioxidant (BAP), may reflect the reduction of oxidative stress by continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment. These findings suggest that d-ROMs and BAP could serve as indicators of the treatment effect. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan, explores the use of bone marrow niches created through in vivo engineering using carbonate apatite honeycomb scaffolds. The study investigates the potential of these scaffolds in restoring hematopoietic function and immunity. The researchers found that the scaffolds exhibited a significant increase in the number of stored hematopoietic stem cells compared to actual bone marrow. Transplanting the honeycomb scaffold into immunocompromised mice restored hematopoietic function and the number of immunocytes to normal levels. This research contributes to the development of efficient hematopoietic stem cell transplantation techniques. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan, explores the use of endoscopic surgery for peripheral neuroblastic tumors (PNTs) in pediatric patients. The researchers analyzed the cases of 24 patients who underwent endoscopic surgery for PNTs, including neuroblastoma, ganglioneuroma, and ganglioneuroblastoma. The study found that complete resection was achieved in the majority of cases, and all patients survived without recurrence during the follow-up period. The researchers concluded that an endoscopic approach to PNTs in pediatric patients is feasible and has a good prognosis when patients are carefully selected. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan, explored the use of bacteriophages and cinnamon oils as natural antimicrobial substances to combat Listeria monocytogenes, a pathogenic bacterium that can cause foodborne illnesses. The researchers isolated nine bacteriophages from raw chickens that exhibited lytic activities against L. monocytogenes. They found that the combination of a specific bacteriophage (vB_LmoS-PLM9) and cinnamon oils showed the highest efficiency in reducing the viable counts of L. monocytogenes in milk and inhibiting the regrowth of resistant cell populations. The study suggests that this combination could be a potential approach for controlling L. monocytogenes in milk. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Fukuoka University in Japan discusses the clinical characteristics of familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) with and without pathogenic variants of the Norrin/b-catenin signaling genes. The study involved 281 probands with FEVR, and genetic testing was performed to identify pathogenic variants. The results showed that probands with pathogenic variants had different clinical characteristics compared to those without variants, including familial predisposition, progression during infancy, asymmetrical severity between the eyes, and nonsyndromic characteristics. The researchers recommend genetic testing for children diagnosed with FEVR to inform parents about the prognosis of vision and general health. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Fukuoka Children's Hospital in Japan has provided new insights into open-lip schizencephaly, a rare brain disorder characterized by fluid-filled clefts in the cerebral hemisphere. The researchers examined two pediatric cases and found that the clefts were directly connected to the lateral ventricles, but not to the subarachnoid space. They also observed that shunting operations were effective in reducing the size of the fluid-filled cavity. The study highlights the importance of detailed neuroimaging in evaluating patients with schizencephaly and associated cerebrospinal fluid retention disorders. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Daiichi University of Pharmacy in Fukuoka, Japan, highlights the potential health risks faced by family caregivers of pediatric cancer patients who are exposed to anticancer drugs. The study monitored the levels of cyclophosphamide (CPM), a commonly used anticancer drug, in the urine of caregivers and on the personal protective equipment (PPE) worn by caregivers. The results showed that CPM was detected in the urine samples of 26% of caregivers, with the highest levels observed 24 to 48 hours after drug administration. The study suggests that strict adherence to PPE protocols within 48 hours after high-dose CPM therapy can help minimize the exposure risk for caregivers. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Fukuoka University in Japan conducted a study on the side-to-side variability in the femoral neck anteversion angle (FA) in the Japanese population with osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). They used three-dimensional computed tomography (CT) to measure the FA and other parameters related to the acetabulum. The study found that the mean side-to-side variability in the FA was 6.7 degrees, with about 20% of patients having a variability of more than 10 degrees. There was a weak negative correlation between the FA and anterior acetabular sector angle, and a very weak positive correlation between the FA and acetabular anteversion angle. This research provides valuable insights into the variability of the FA in Japanese patients with ONFH. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Fukuoka University in Japan discusses the impact of chronic psychosocial stress on anxiety disorders. The study examines how different patterns of social defeat stress affect anxiety-like behaviors, fear, and the signaling of certain proteins in the hippocampus of adult male rats. The research found that continuous social defeat stress led to heightened anxiety-like behavior and increased levels of certain proteins, while intermittent social defeat stress resulted in increased anxiety-like behavior and decreased levels of these proteins. The findings suggest that chronic psychosocial stress affects emotional regulation differently depending on the stress episode. This research could contribute to a better understanding of psychiatric disorders and the development of innovative treatments. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the National Hospital Organization Kyushu Medical Center in Fukuoka, Japan, explored the relationship between fluid-attenuated inversion recovery vascular hyperintensity-diffusion-weighted imaging (FVH-DWI) mismatch and functional outcome after endovascular reperfusion therapy (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke. The study found that patients with a large FVH-DWI mismatch had a good functional outcome after EVT for acute internal carotid artery or middle cerebral artery-M1 occlusion. The research suggests that FVH-DWI mismatch may represent penumbral tissue with good collateral status. This information may be useful for clinicians and researchers studying stroke treatment and outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Kyushu University Hospital in Fukuoka, Japan discusses the successful use of nonverbal approaches in the treatment of a patient with fibromyalgia who had experienced adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). The patient, a woman in her late 40s, had difficulty building a therapeutic relationship due to her history of neglect, unfair parenting, overcontrol, and sexual abuse. The therapist used nonverbal techniques such as drawing therapy and "Towel Baby Holding" to establish trust and understanding with the patient. This approach allowed the patient to express her feelings and eventually led to a favorable treatment outcome. The report concludes that nonverbal approaches can be beneficial for patients with ACEs in building therapeutic relationships and understanding their experiences. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Fukuoka University Hospital in Japan have reported new findings on abetalipoproteinemia (ABL), a rare disease characterized by low levels of lipoproteins, fat malabsorption, and vitamin deficiencies. The researchers identified a case of ABL with novel compound heterozygous mutations in the microsomal triglyceride transfer protein gene. Unlike typical ABL cases, this patient had preserved apoB-48 secretion and increased levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, which may explain their normal vitamin levels. This research was funded by Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research and the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare of Japan. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan, has found that flavonoids, specifically myricetin and quercetin, can increase the susceptibility of Escherichia coli (E. coli) to phages. The study also showed that pretreatment with flavonoids decreased the transcription of chaperone genes in E. coli. These findings provide a scientific basis for the development of a novel biocontrol method for foodborne bacteria. The research was supported by Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan, explored the association between serum triglyceride (TG) levels and the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The study followed 4,100 patients with CKD for 5 years and found that individuals with high serum TG levels were more likely to experience CKD progression. However, the significance of this association disappeared after adjusting for macroalbuminuria, indicating that the relationship between high TG levels and CKD progression may be mediated by elevated macroalbuminuria. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms at play. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Kyushu University in Japan compared the outcomes of pediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) centers in metropolitan and regional areas. The study analyzed the clinical outcomes of 155 patients aged 15 and under who received ECMO between 2010 and 2019. The survival rates at ICU discharge were similar between the two areas, but regional centers had a higher frequency of deterioration in Pediatric Cerebral Performance Category (PCPC) scores. The study concluded that while survival rates were comparable, there is a need to improve neurological outcomes, particularly in patients with acute myocarditis. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan, focused on enhancing the storage longevity and regulating reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism in 'Frutica' tomatoes. The researchers used chitosan, polyvinyl alcohol, and trans-cinnamaldehyde water barrier coatings to investigate their effects on the tomatoes. The results showed that the addition of trans-cinnamaldehyde increased the structural density, water barrier properties, and resistance to Botrytis cinerea of the coatings. The trans-cinnamaldehyde-coated tomatoes exhibited improved quality, reduced lipid peroxidation, and modulation of the ROS scavenging system compared to other treatment groups. The study concluded that water barrier coating facilitates the enzymatic ROS scavenging system in tomatoes, thereby extending their senescence. [Extracted from the article]