Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1002/wjs.70482

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

PURPOSE: To determine the extent of possible dose reduction with photon-counting detector computed tomography (PCD-CT) while maintaining image quality equivalent to that of energy-integrating detector CT (EID-CT) images at standard dose in the temporal bone. MATERIALS AND METHODS: PCD-CT and EID-CT imaging quality were compared by visual evaluation of clinical temporal bone images and visual scores with Welch's t-test at standard dose. A head phantom was used to evaluate imaging quality under dose reduction. The detectability index (d') of the PCD-CT images at various dose levels and the EID-CT images at standard dose was evaluated. Dose reduction limit with PCD-CT used in the subsequent clinical evaluation was determined as the lowest dose with image quality equal to or better than EID-CT. The clinical equivalence of PCD-CT image quality at the determined reduced dose to that with EID-CT at standard dose was evaluated using visual scores. Equivalence was determined if the 95% confidence intervals of differences did not exceed the equivalence margin of ±1. RESULTS: At standard doses, PCD-CT images demonstrated significantly higher visual scores than EID-CT images (3.73 vs. 2.56 for incudomalleolar joint, 3.75 vs. 2.63 for stapes, 3.54 vs. 2.52 for cochlea, and 3.58 vs. 2.46 for facial nerve canal; all P 0.001). In the phantom study, the d' value was 0.15 with EID-CT at standard dose and was 0.12 and 0.17 with PCD-CT at 25% and 50% of the standard dose, respectively. Clinically, the mean visual scores of PCD-CT images at 50% of the standard dose were equivalent to EID-CT images at standard dose in all regions (3.58 vs. 3.12 for incudomalleolar joint, 3.46 vs. 3.19 for stapes, 3.50 vs. 3.08 for cochlea, 3.58 vs. 3.27 for facial nerve canal). CONCLUSION: PCD-CT may preserve image quality even at 50% of the standard dose in the temporal bone.

DOI： 10.1007/s11604-026-02002-9

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1136/archdischild-2025-329347

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

PURPOSE: To elucidate determinants of long-term patient-reported outcomes (PROs) following colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery in older adults, focusing on the impact of ostomy creation, nutritional status, and living conditions on functional independence and quality of life (QoL). METHODS: This single-center, prospective observational study included patients aged ≥ 75 years who underwent elective CRC resection between July 2020 and December 2023. Comprehensive geriatric assessments were performed preoperatively, and PROs-including Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL), EQ-5D, and EQ-VAS-were reassessed more than one year postoperatively. The primary outcomes were postoperative changes in IADL and QoL. Modified Poisson regression identified independent determinants of long-term decline in each PRO domain. RESULTS: Sixty patients (median age 79 years; 60% female) completed one-year follow-up. IADL declined in 35.6% of patients, EQ-5D in 26.6%, and EQ-VAS in 43.3%. Multivariate analysis revealed that stoma formation was independently associated with IADL decline (adjusted RR = 3.37, 95% CI 1.50-7.54, p = 0.003), whereas living alone postoperatively correlated with preserved IADL (adjusted RR = 0.14, 95% CI 0.02-0.87, p = 0.035). Low preoperative BMI (< 20 kg/m2) was significantly associated with EQ-5D deterioration (adjusted RR = 5.25, 95% CI 1.20-22.94, p = 0.027). No significant predictors were identified for EQ-VAS decline. CONCLUSION: Among older CRC patients, stoma creation predicts long-term functional decline, while low BMI predicts QoL deterioration. Conversely, independent living appears protective for functional maintenance. Integrating PROs into perioperative assessment and tailoring surgical, nutritional, and social interventions may enhance survivorship outcomes in this aging population.

DOI： 10.1007/s00384-026-05135-5

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1097/JS9.0000000000003600

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

AIMS: Accumulating evidence suggests that advanced age is associated with poor local control and prognosis in patients with soft-tissue sarcomas (STSs), highlighting the need to optimise treatment for this age group. However, real-world data on treatment details and outcomes in elderly patients are limited. This study aimed to clarify the role of perioperative radiotherapy (RT) for treating high-risk STSs in elderly patients. METHODS: Patients aged ≥ 70 years who underwent surgery for localised, high-grade, deep-seated non-small round cell STSs measuring ≥ 5 cm were included in the Bone and Soft Tissue Tumour Registry in Japan. Patients with small-round cell STSs or myxoid liposarcomas, or those who received perioperative chemotherapy or intraoperative RT, were excluded. RESULTS: Among the 1,214 patients who met the criteria, 47 (4%), 219 (18%), and 2 (0.2%) received neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and both neoadjuvant and adjuvant RT, respectively. The 5- and 10-year disease-specific survival (DSS) rates were 72.7% and 64.7%, respectively. Tumour size ≥ 10 cm, intralesional margin, and local recurrence were associated with poorer DSS; however, perioperative RT did not affect DSS. The 5- and 10-year cumulative probabilities of local recurrence (LR) were 14.6% and 19.5%, respectively. Trunk wall tumours, dedifferentiated liposarcomas, marginal margins, and intralesional margins were associated with a higher probability of LR. Adjuvant RT was associated with a reduced LR probability in patients with intralesional (p = 0.005) or marginal margins (p = 0.044); however, no such benefit was observed in patients with wide margins, who constituted the majority of the cohort, resulting in no significant association between perioperative RT and LR in overall analyses. In the propensity score-matched cohort, no significant differences in DSS or cumulative probability of LR were observed between patients with and without perioperative RT. CONCLUSION: Adjuvant RT was associated with reduced LR rates in elderly patients with high-risk STSs who had intralesional or marginal margins. However, because most patients achieved wide margins and no benefit of perioperative RT was observed in this group, RT was not associated with reduced LR or improved survival in the overall or propensity score-matched analyses. Prospective trials are warranted to define the role of perioperative RT in elderly patients with high-risk STSs.

DOI： 10.1186/s12885-026-15629-8

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND/AIM: Evidence regarding the benefits of nutritional therapy after robotic pancreatectomy is limited. This randomized controlled trial aimed to investigate the effects of a polymeric formula (PF) on preventing body weight loss (BWL) following robotic pancreatectomy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This single-center, open-label, randomized trial was conducted to assign 46 patients undergoing robotic pancreatectomy in a 1:1 ratio to either the PF (ISOCAL Clear) or control group. The primary endpoint was the percentage of BWL on postoperative days 14 and 28. The secondary endpoints were postoperative outcomes. RESULTS: Of the 52 eligible patients between December 2023 and November 2024, 46 were analyzed using intention-to-treat principles: 23 in the ISOCAL group and 23 in the control group. The %BWL was significantly lower in the ISOCAL group compared with that in the control group on postoperative days 14 (4.8±3.5% vs. 6.6±3.2%, p=0.02) and 28 (6.4±3.0% vs. 8.4±3.5%, p=0.047). Postoperative outcomes, including major complications (p=0.55) and hospital stay (p=0.83), did not differ significantly between the groups. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates the safety and feasibility of administering PF to patients undergoing robotic pancreatectomy. The results showed the beneficial effects of PF on mitigating BWL without compromising short-term outcomes.

DOI： 10.21873/anticanres.17954

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

OBJECTIVES: In living-donor lobar lung transplantation (LDLLT), significant donor-recipient age differences often occur because of the limited pool of related donors, typically parents or children, raising concerns regarding whether this affects postoperative outcomes and survival. In this study, we assessed the effect of living-donor and recipient age mismatch on LDLLT outcomes. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included 82 patients who underwent bilateral LDLLT and 164 donors between October 1998 and October 2023. The donor-recipient pairs were categorized into three groups: an age difference of ≥ 20 years for both lungs, ≥20 years for one lung, and <20 years for both lungs. Postoperative outcomes, including survival and chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD)-free survival, were compared between groups. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in perioperative outcomes, including hospital mortality, 1-year survival, and acute rejection rates, across the different age-mismatch groups. Additionally, there was no clear correlation between age difference and the development of CLAD. Overall and CLAD-free survival rates were similar among the three groups, suggesting that donor-recipient age mismatch does not adversely affect long-term outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of this single-center, retrospective cohort, we did not detect a significant association between donor-recipient age difference and perioperative, overall, or CLAD-free survival outcomes in LDLLT.

DOI： 10.1093/ejcts/ezaf446

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

PURPOSE: The appropriate surgical approach for colon cancer (CC) in nonagenarian patients remains a subject of clinical debate. This study aimed to compare the short-term outcomes of laparoscopic (Lap) versus open (Open) surgery in patients aged ≥ 90 years with resectable colon cancer. METHODS: This multi-institutional retrospective cohort study included oldest-old patientswith pathological Stage II/III CC who underwent elective surgery at 15 hospitals between 2011 and 2022. Patients with rectal cancer, Stage 0/I/IV disease, or emergency surgery were excluded. To address selection bias, inverse-probability-weighted regression adjustment and stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting (sIPTW) were applied. The primary outcome was postoperative complications; secondary outcomes included overall survival (OS). RESULTS: Median age was 92 years in both groups. Before adjustment, the Lap group had a higher proportion of female patients (p = 0.038) and lower ASA scores (p = 0.01). Laparoscopic surgery was associated with a significantly longer operative time (220 vs. 171 min, p = 0.046) but less intraoperative blood loss (10 vs. 78 mL, p < 0.01). Postoperative complication rates were comparable (Lap: 31.8%, Open: 33.8%), while the Lap group had a significantly shorter hospital stay (13 vs. 17 days, p < 0.01). D3 lymph node dissection was more frequently performed in the Lap group (p < 0.01). After sIPTW, overall survival did not differ significantly between groups (p = 0.61). CONCLUSION: Both laparoscopic and open surgery are feasible options for selected nonagenarians with colon cancer. Laparoscopic surgery may offer benefits in terms of reduced blood loss and shorter hospitalization, despite longer operative times. Careful patient selection considering frailty and comorbidities is essential in determining the most appropriate surgical approach.

DOI： 10.1007/s00423-025-03911-5

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: The efficacy and safety of 42 °C hot saline irrigation in haemostasis remain unclear. AIMS/OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the effects of hot saline irrigation at 42 °C during endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) to assess its efficacy in reducing intraoperative bleeding. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this randomized, double-blind, within-person trial, 13 patients with bilateral chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps undergoing ESS were randomly assigned to receive 42 °C hot saline irrigation on one side and room-temperature saline irrigation as a control on the contralateral side. The primary outcome was the Boezaart surgical field score, while secondary outcomes included operative time, histopathological changes, and postoperative complications. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for statistical analyses. RESULTS: The Boezaart surgical field score significantly improved with hot saline irrigation compared with the control during anterior ethmoid surgery (p = 0.046); however, no significant difference was observed during posterior ethmoid and sphenoid surgeries. Operative times were comparable between groups. No adverse tissue changes or postoperative complications were observed. CONCLUSIONS AND SIGNIFICANCE: Hot saline irrigation at 42 °C improved surgical field visibility during ESS without adverse effects, demonstrating its potential as a haemostatic adjunct. This cost-effective and safe technique warrants further investigation for broader clinical application. TRIAL REGISTRATION: UMIN Clinical Trials Registry: UMIN000052864.

DOI： 10.1080/00016489.2025.2574505

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

AIM: The oncological benefit of D3 lymph node dissection (D3 LND) for colon cancer in patients aged ≥90 years remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of D3 LND on outcomes in this specific, vulnerable population. METHOD: This retrospective cohort study evaluated 166 patients aged ≥90 years with pathological Stages II-III colon cancer undergoing non-D3 or D3 LND from a multicentre database (2011-2022). Postoperative complications, overall survival and cancer-specific survival were compared between LND groups using propensity score-weighted analyses. RESULTS: D3 LND group had significantly more females and laparoscopic procedures. Operation time was longer, and blood loss was lower in the D3 LND group. Postoperative complications and severe complications were significantly fewer, and postoperative hospital stay was shorter in the D3 LND group. The number of harvested lymph nodes and distal margin was significantly higher in the D3 group. While unadjusted analysis showed better overall survival with D3 LND (p < 0.001), adjusted cancer-specific survival showed no significant difference (p = 0.10). Adjusted mortality risk was significantly higher in the non-D3 group (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: In nonagenarian colon cancer patients, D3 LND is safe and feasible without increasing complications, but lacks survival benefit. Careful consideration is warranted, and high-quality D2 LND must be consistently ensured when limited surgery is chosen.

DOI： 10.1111/codi.70269

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publisher：(一社)日本血液学会  

researchmap

Authorship：Last author   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1007/s40292-025-00735-8

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

This retrospective cohort study aimed to assess the predictive value of early postoperative C-reactive protein (CRP) levels for complications following robot-assisted rectal surgery (RARS) for rectal cancer. We analyzed data from 117 consecutive patients who underwent elective RARS at Okayama University Hospital between September 2020 and January 2025. Serum CRP levels were routinely measured preoperatively and on postoperative days (POD) 1 and 4. The primary outcome was the occurrence of any postoperative complication within 30 days, classified according to the Clavien-Dindo grading system. Postoperative complications were observed in 26 patients, representing 22.2% of the cohort. Univariate analysis revealed that several factors were significantly associated with complications, including older age, higher ASA score, neoadjuvant therapy, stoma creation, prolonged operative time, and elevated CRP levels on POD1 and POD4. Notably, multivariate logistic regression analysis identified POD1 CRP as a robust independent predictor of overall postoperative complications (adjusted odds ratio 0.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.63-0.93], p < 0.01). In the ROC analysis, the AUC was 0.735 (bootstrap bias-corrected 95% CI 0.544-0.848). The optimal cutoff value of POD1 CRP was 5.63 mg/dl, at which Youden's index, yielding a sensitivity of 0.615 and specificity of 0.868. In conclusion, early postoperative measurement of CRP on POD1 serves as a valuable and independent biomarker for predicting complications following RARS for rectal cancer. Incorporating POD1 CRP into postoperative surveillance may facilitate the early identification of high-risk patients, thereby facilitating timely interventions and ultimately improving surgical outcomes in this patient population.

DOI： 10.1007/s13304-025-02379-8

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1093/ageing/afaf224

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Elsevier BV  

DOI： 10.1016/j.ijporl.2025.112415

researchmap

Language：English  

DOI： 10.1016/j.gie.2025.04.042

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1007/s10151-025-03187-3

Web of Science

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1007/s00586-025-09066-7

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: Segmentectomy for lung cancer has been increasingly performed. However, evidence regarding the necessity of additional surgical resection after the diagnosis of unsuspected N1 or N2 lymph node metastasis is limited. METHODS: We conducted a multicenter, real-world data study of patients with any clinical T and N0 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who underwent lobectomy or segmentectomy between 2012 and 2021 and who subsequently received a diagnosis of pathologic N1 or N2 lymph node metastasis. Patients were categorized into lobectomy and segmentectomy groups. We analyzed overall survival (OS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), cumulative recurrence rates, and recurrence patterns using both unadjusted and propensity score-adjusted cohorts. RESULTS: A total of 736 patients were in the lobectomy group, and 70 were in the segmentectomy group. In the unadjusted cohort, segmentectomy-treated patients were older, had a lower preoperative percentage of vital capacity, had smaller tumors, and received less postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy. The 5-year OS was significantly worse in the segmentectomy group (P = .011), with no significant differences in 5-year RFS or cumulative recurrence rates. In the propensity score-adjusted cohort, there were no significant differences in OS, RFS, or recurrence rates; however, the segmentectomy group had a higher rate of local recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with unsuspected N1 or N2 NSCLC, analysis using a cohort adjusted for patient background with propensity scores revealed no differences in OS, RFS, or cumulative recurrence rates between segmentectomy and lobectomy. This finding suggests that additional resection of the remaining segments may not be necessary for these patients. However, the higher rate of local recurrence in the segmentectomy group warrants careful consideration.

DOI： 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2025.02.023

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: Large-volume leukocytapheresis is time consuming. The upper limit of the inlet flow rate is determined by the inlet: anticoagulant (AC) ratio and can be changed by combining the AC with heparin. Here, we devised a protocol to increase the AC ratio using a highly concentrated sodium citrate solution without heparin. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: We collected data from 40 consecutive apheresis procedures performed using the Spectra Optia system on 40 donors for allogeneic peripheral blood stem cells between June 2022 and June 2023. We used AC containing 2.2% sodium citrate (normal concentrated sodium citrate [NSC]) and 5.32% sodium citrate (highly concentrated sodium citrate [HSC]). The AC ratios were set to 12:1 and 24:1 for the NSC and HSC, respectively. RESULTS: The processed volume was not different; the maximum inlet flow rate increased, the total processing time was reduced, the AC solution used was reduced, and the product volume was reduced in the HSC group, compared to the NSC group. Although the CD34+ cell CE2 was reduced in the HSC group, no difference was observed in the number of collected CD34+ cells. The incidences of citrate-related reactions were similar. DISCUSSION: We propose a novel leukocytapheresis method using HSC that shortens the procedure time and reduces the amount of AC solution used compared to the conventional method.

DOI： 10.1111/trf.18280

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

Abstract

Background

No direct cost comparison has been conducted between percutaneous cryoablation (PCA) and robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) for clinical T1a renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in Japan. This study aimed to compare their costs.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from 212 PCAs (including 155 with transcatheter arterial embolization) and 119 RAPN cases performed between December 2017 and May 2022.

Results

PCA patients were older with higher American Society of Anesthesiologists scores, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and history of previous RCC treatment, cardiovascular disease, and antithrombotic drug use than RAPN patients. PCA was associated with a significantly shorter procedure time and hospitalization duration with fewer major complications than those associated with RAPN. While PCA incurred a slightly lower total cost (1,123,000 vs. 1,155,000 yen), it had a significantly higher procedural cost (739,000 vs. 693,000 yen) and markedly worse total (− 93,000 vs. 249,000 yen) and procedural income-expenditure balance (− 189,000 vs. 231,000 yen) than those of RAPN. After statistical adjustment, PCA demonstrated significantly higher total (difference: 114,000 yen) and procedural costs (difference: 72,000 yen), alongside significantly worse total (difference: − 358,000 yen) and procedural income-expenditure balances (difference: − 439,000 yen). The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was more favorable for PCA than for RAPN.

Conclusion

For high- risk patients, PCA demonstrated a safer option with shorter hospitalization duration than those of RAPN. Although PCA was more cost-effective, its higher procedural cost and unfavorable income-expenditure balance require careful evaluation, especially for large tumors that require three or more needles.

DOI： 10.1007/s10147-025-02783-5

researchmap

Other Link： https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10147-025-02783-5/fulltext.html

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(NPO)日本食道学会  

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

Abstract

Purpose

Although preoperative marking is often required to accurately locate the targets for video-assisted thoracic surgery, target lesions can be identified intraoperatively without marking in some cases; however, the frequency and characteristics of these lesions remain unclear. Therefore, we aimed to retrospectively evaluate the need for a short hookwire for preoperative localization of small pulmonary lesions.

Materials and methods

Computed tomography (CT)-guided short hookwire placement was performed for 176 lesions (mean diameter, 7.9 ± 3.5 mm) in 171 sessions prior to video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. Placement was performed if one or more of the following CT findings were present: lesions (1) ≤ 10 mm in diameter; (2) ≥ 5 mm from the pleural surface, and (3) predominantly consisting of ground-glass opacity. The need for a hookwire for intraoperative lesion detection was retrospectively assessed based on surgical records. Factors associated with the absence of a hookwire for lesion detection were determined using univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

Placement was successful in all cases; however, the hookwire was dislodged at the time of surgery in four lesions (2%). Among the remaining 172 lesions, thoracoscopic resection was performed using a hookwire as a landmark in 101 lesions (58.7%), whereas 71 lesions (41.3%) were detectable without a hookwire. Previous ipsilateral lung resection significantly increased the odds of not needing a hook wire (OR 4.24; P = 0.005). Larger target lesions (mean, 8.4 vs. 7.1 mm) and those located further from the pleura (mean, 13.3 vs. 8.0 mm) were associated with an increased need for hook wires. Multivariate analysis revealed that experienced surgeons required more hookwires compared to trainees (P = 0.029). Solid nodules did not require hookwires (P = 0.032).

Conclusion

Shallow solid lesions in patients with a history of ipsilateral lung resection may not require hookwire placement during resection, even if they are small.

DOI： 10.1007/s11604-025-01807-4

researchmap

Other Link： https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11604-025-01807-4/fulltext.html

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: Serum C-reactive protein (CRP), leucine-rich alpha-2 glycoprotein (LRG), and fecal calprotectin (Fcal) are non-invasive markers used to assess Crohn's disease (CD) severity. However, the accuracy of these markers alone is often limited, and most previous reports have evaluated the efficacy of each marker individually. We aimed to improve the diagnostic performance of endoscopic remission (ER) of CD by combining these 3 markers. METHODS: We tested the diagnostic ability of various combinations of these 3 markers for endoscopic severity in 230 consecutive patients with CD from September 2014 to July 2023. The modified Simple Endoscopic Score for Crohn's disease (mSES-CD) was used to determine endoscopic severity. RESULTS: Each of the 3 markers was correlated with mSED-CD (LRG: r = 0.69, CRP: r = 0.60, and Fcal: r = 0.67). A combination of 2 of the 3 markers did not increase the diagnostic accuracy of ER. However, by combining all 3 markers, the diagnostic ability for ER was improved in comparison to the diagnostic ability of the 3 individual markers, assuming that ER was obtained if 2 or 3 markers were negative. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 89%, 83%, and 86%, respectively. Additionally, we established a 2-step method using Fcal values after evaluating the 2 serum markers. This method was most useful for reducing both the patient burden and costs. CONCLUSIONS: The newly established 2-step method allowed for a higher accuracy in the non-invasive diagnosis of ER when the 3 markers were combined.

DOI： 10.1186/s12876-025-03880-5

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: The clinical presentation of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) ranges from localized respiratory symptoms such as cough and sore throat to systemic symptoms such as fever and fatigue. To our knowledge, no study has assessed severe disease risk by dividing onset symptoms into localized respiratory and other symptoms. We aimed to determine whether the risk of severe COVID-19 differs depending on whether the symptoms at onset are limited to local respiratory symptoms. METHOD: This was a multicenter prospective cohort study. The patients were classified into localized respiratory or systemic symptom groups based on the symptoms at onset. Demographic data, blood biomarkers, and clinical outcomes, including mortality, intubation, admission to the intensive care unit, and time to discharge, were compared. This study included 100 adult patients diagnosed with COVID-19 between July 2020 and August 2021. RESULT: Twelve patients were classified into the localized respiratory symptom group and the remaining 88 into the systemic symptom group. No significant differences between the groups were observed in the baseline characteristics, blood biomarkers, or clinical outcomes. The mortality rates were 0.0% and 4.6%, respectively. The median durations to discharge were 11 and 10 days, respectively (p=0.512). The levels of inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers, including interleukin-6 and hydroperoxides, were similar between the groups. CONCLUSION: The symptom type at disease onset was not significantly associated with differences in clinical outcomes. Comprehensive assessments beyond initial symptoms are crucial for predicting disease progression and optimizing management strategies.

DOI： 10.7759/cureus.84919

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

Temporal bone computed tomography (CT) is frequently performed for pediatric patients with ear diseases. Advances in CT technology have improved diagnostic imaging quality, but reduction of radiation exposure remains a goal. We evaluated the potential for radiation dose reduction in temporal bone CT examinations using porcine ear ossicles and a photon-counting detector CT system. Three scans of the bilateral temporal bone were performed on each of three pig cadaver heads. In each of seven successive imaging sessions, the radiation dose was reduced by an additional one-seventh of the recommended dose (RD). Two board-certified radiologists independently scored the resulting images on a scale of 1 to 5 points, where 5 represented the image quality at the RD. Images scoring ≥4.5 points were considered acceptable. Noise was assessed in a 2-cm-diameter region near the ear ossicles, and standard deviation was measured for each of the seven decrements from the RD. As the radiation dose decreased, the noise progressively increased, and visual assessment scores progressively decreased. Acceptable image scores were obtained at six-sevenths (4.9), five-sevenths (4.8), four-sevenths (4.7), and three-sevenths (4.6) of the RD. Thus, acceptable porcine temporal bone CT images were obtained with a radiation dose reduction of approximately 50%.

DOI： 10.18926/AMO/68645

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.3390/jcm14072287

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

OBJECTIVES: Aggressive colorectal cancer (CRC) frequently originates from serrated lesions (SLs), particularly in the proximal colon, which are challenging to detect using standard screening colonoscopy. Although duplicate examinations or chromocolonoscopies are recommended for detecting proximal SLs, evidence from randomized trials is limited. We evaluated the effectiveness of tandem colonoscopy with an acetic acid-indigo carmine mixture (AIM) for detecting SLs in the proximal colon compared to white-light imaging (WLI) and indigo carmine (IC). METHODS: This three-arm, multicenter, randomized controlled trial involving nine institutions enrolled patients undergoing colonoscopy and assigned them randomly to the WLI, IC, or AIM group. The primary outcomes were the SL-detection rate (SDR) of proximal lesions during the second examination (SDR2nd) and SL additional rate (SAR). Secondary outcomes included the detection and additional rates of other polyps, factors contributing to SAR, and complications. RESULTS: Between 2021 and 2024, 1,319 participants with 1,267 polyps were included in the analysis. With AIM, the SDR2nd and SAR were significantly higher compared to WLI or IC (WLI vs. AIM: 2.7% vs. 14.0%, p<.001; IC vs. AIM: 7.9% vs. 14.0%, p=.002, and WLI vs. AIM: 22.4% vs. 69.3%, p<.001; IC vs. AIM: 45.8% vs. 69.3%, p=.001). AIM conferred a higher adenoma-detection rate (ADR)2nd than with WLI (10.5% vs. 24.7%; p<.001) and was an independent factor for SAR (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 7.79 [3.76-17.08]). No major adverse events were observed. CONCLUSIONS: AIM significantly improved proximal colon SDRs and outperformed WLI and IC. The relationship between SDR and CRC incidence warrants further investigation.

DOI： 10.14309/ajg.0000000000003411

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Directive Publications  

Background: Various anastomotic techniques have been developed to reduce postoperative complications. This study aimed to compare theGambee anastomosis and triangular anastomosis in patients undergoing McKeown esophagectomy for thoracic esophageal cancer.Methods: We randomly assigned patients to undergo either Gambee anastomosis or triangular anastomosis. The primary endpoint was theincidence of anastomotic leakage. Secondary endpoints included anastomotic stenosis, anastomotic time, and hospital costs.Results: Seventy-five patients were enrolled between November 2013 and August 2016. Anastomotic leakage (Clavien–Dindo grade ≥II) wassignificantly less frequent in the Gambee anastomosis group than in the triangular anastomosis group (odds ratio 7.944, 95% confidence interval[CI] 1.648–38.308; p=0.01). The number of dilatations for anastomotic stenosis was significantly lower in the Gambee anastomosis group thanin the triangular anastomosis group (incidence rate ratio 3.077, 95%CI 2.064–4.585; p&lt;0.001). Anastomosis time was significantly shorter inthe triangular anastomosis group than in the Gambee anastomosis group (coefficient -4.573, 95%CI -7.609– -1.537; p=0.004). Hospital costsshowed no significant difference (coefficient 2950.7, 95%CI -4899.362–10,901.26; p=0.462).Conclusion: The Gambee anastomosis is superior to triangular anastomosis in terms of anastomotic leakage and anastomotic stenosis incervical esophagogastric anastomosis after McKeown esophagectomy

DOI： 10.52338/aots.2025.4481

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

Therapies that effectively suppress graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) without compromising graft-versus-leukemia/lymphoma (GVL) effects is important in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) for hematopoietic malignancies. Geranylgeranylacetone (GGA) is a main component of teprenone, a gastric mucosal protectant commonly used in clinical practice. In preclinical models, GGA suppresses proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), which are associated with GVHD as well as induces thioredoxin-1 (Trx-1), which suppresses GVHD while maintaining GVL effects. Here, we investigated whether the addition of teprenone to standard GVHD prophylaxis could reduce the cumulative incidence of severe acute GVHD (aGVHD) without attenuating GVL effects. This open-label, randomized clinical trial enrolled 40 patients (21 control and 19 teprenone group) who received allo-HSCT between May 2022 and February 2023 in our institution. Patients in the teprenone group received 50 mg of teprenone orally thrice daily for 21 days from the initiation of the conditioning regimen. The cumulative incidence of severe aGVHD by day 100 after allo-HSCT was not significantly different in the two groups (27.9 vs. 16.1%, p = 0.25). The exploratory studies revealed no obvious changes in Trx-1 levels, but the alternations from baseline in IL-1β and TNF-α levels at day 28 after allo-HSCT tended to be lower in the teprenone group. In conclusion, we could not demonstrate that teprenone significantly prevented the development of severe aGVHD. Discrepancy with preclinical model suggests that appropriate dose of teprenone may be necessary to induce the expression of antioxidant enzymes that suppress severe aGVHD. Clinical Trial Registration number:jRCTs 061210072.

DOI： 10.1007/s00277-025-06269-2

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.3390/biomedicines13020373

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本医学放射線学会  

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

INTRODUCTION: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is characterized by esophageal mucosal injury due to the reflux of gastroduodenal contents. Typical symptoms include heartburn and acid regurgitation. In addition, gastroesophageal reflux (GER) can influence conditions such as otitis media, rhinitis, and asthma. This study aimed to examine the association between dinner-to-bed time and GER-related diseases, such as otitis media, allergic rhinitis, and asthma. METHODS: This was a longitudinal cohort study using secondary data. Data were collected from a large-scale birth cohort study conducted in Japan including babies born in 2001 and 2010. Dinner-to-bed time was categorized as "longer dinner-to-bed time" (>120 minutes), "shorter dinner-to-bed time" (≤120 minutes or less), and "irregular dinner-to-bed time." Modified Poisson regression with robust variance was used to estimate risk ratios (RRs). RESULTS: A total of 60,392 children were included in this study. Children with shorter dinner-to-bed time had a higher risk of asthma (adjusted RR (aRR) = 1.10; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.03-1.18) than those with longer dinner-to-bed time. However, no significant association was observed between shorter dinner-to-bed time and otitis media or allergic rhinitis. Furthermore, supplementary analyses revealed that the risk of asthma was significantly higher in children born in 2001 (aRR = 1.13; 95% CI, 1.04-1.22). CONCLUSION: This study showed that dinner-to-bed time within 120 minutes after dinner increases the risk of developing asthma. This underscores the importance of considering lifestyle modifications, as certain pediatric asthma cases may be influenced by behaviors that promote GER.

DOI： 10.7759/cureus.77709

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of needle tract sealing using normal saline instillation for decreasing the risk of pneumothorax after computed tomography-guided lung biopsy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective, single-institution study included 391 computed tomography-guided lung biopsies performed by 12 operators between January 2022 and October 2024. After exclusion, 298 biopsies were analyzed by comparing the saline seal (n = 138) and control (n = 160) groups. A 17/18-gauge or 19/20-gauge coaxial biopsy system was used, and tract sealing was performed by instilling 1-5 mL of normal saline during the withdrawal of the introducer needle in the saline seal group; tract sealing was not performed in the control group. After 1:1 propensity score matching was performed to balance baseline characteristics, the incidences of pneumothorax and chest tube placement were compared between the two groups using Fisher's exact test. RESULTS: After propensity score matching, 108 pairs (mean lesion size: 17 mm) were well balanced. The incidence of pneumothorax did not differ significantly between the control and saline seal groups (50.0% vs. 60.2%, respectively; p = 0.171). Similarly, the incidence of chest tube placement was not significantly different between the two groups (7.4% vs. 13.0%, respectively; p = 0.260). CONCLUSIONS: According to the propensity score-matched analysis, normal saline instillation for tract sealing did not significantly reduce the incidence of pneumothorax or chest tube placement. In our cohort, which had a high prevalence of small lesions, saline sealing alone may be insufficient to reduce post-biopsy pneumothorax risk. Hence, combined strategies require further investigation.

DOI： 10.22575/interventionalradiology.2025-0068

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1016/j.htct.2024.06.010

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: Lung cancer with interstitial pneumonia is known to be a refractory disease. We explored whether systemic inflammatory response markers are associated with outcomes in these patients. METHODS: The participants of this multicenter retrospective study, consisting of 17 medical institutions, were treatment-naïve patients with lung cancer combined with interstitial pneumonia who underwent surgical resection between 2012 and 2017. We reviewed clinicopathologic characteristics, including systemic inflammatory response markers, and examined the relationship between these characteristics and postoperative survival. RESULTS: According to the inclusion criteria, the final cohort consisted of 181 patients. Among preoperative systemic inflammatory response markers, the C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio was an independent prognostic factor in multivariable analysis (hazard ratio, 1.71; P = .018). We examined whether the C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio could be a determining factor in selecting surgical procedures (wedge resection or segmentectomy/lobectomy) preoperatively for patients with early-stage lung cancer. Although not statistically significant, there is a trend that the C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio can be a possible determining factor in selecting surgical procedures. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that the C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio is an independent prognostic factor for overall survival in treatment-naïve patients with lung cancer combined with interstitial pneumonia.

DOI： 10.1016/j.atssr.2024.06.026

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

PURPOSE: Our perioperative management center provides preoperative intervention and functional and nutritional assessments for colorectal cancer patients aged over 75 years. This study evaluated the associations of preoperative nutritional status with postoperative outcomes and prognosis in colorectal cancer patients aged 75 years or older. METHODS: This was a prospective, observational study of 71 colorectal cancer patients aged 75 years or older who underwent surgery between July 2020 and September 2022. The Subjective Global Assessment (SGA) was evaluated as a nutritional index. The patients were classified into three groups: SGA-A (well nourished), B (moderately malnourished), and C (severely malnourished), and the correlations with postoperative outcomes and prognosis were examined. RESULTS: The median age of the 71 patients (34 males, 37 females) was 78 (75-92) years, and their median body mass index (BMI) was 22.3 (13.4-31.9) kg/m2. Forty-eight patients had colon cancer, and 23 had rectal cancer. On the SGA, 28 patients were SGA-A, 25 SGA-B, and 18 SGA-C. The SGA-B/C group had significantly higher BMI (p < 0.01) and more ICU admissions (p = 0.02). The G8 score was significantly lower (p = 0.03) in the SGA-B/C group, suggesting coexisting functional decline. In terms of postoperative outcomes, the SGA-B/C group had a significantly longer postoperative hospital stay (p = 0.04). The 3-year OS rates for all stages were 100% in the SGA-A group and 49.7% in the SGA-B/C group (p = 0.03), while the 3-year OS rates for patients excluding Stage IV were 100% in the SGA-A group and 68.5% in the SGA-B/C group, not significantly different (p = 0.14). The 3-year RFS rate was 95.5% in the SGA-A group and 65.3% in the SGA-B/C group (p = 0.15). CONCLUSION: The SGA is a promising nutritional index associated with short-term outcomes in older patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery. The SGA can be assessed in a few minutes during an outpatient visit, making it useful for routine clinical use.

DOI： 10.1007/s00423-024-03548-w

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: Open pancreaticoduodenectomy (OPD) is an essential surgical procedure for expert hepato-biliary-pancreatic (HBP) surgeons. However, there is no standard for how many surgeries must be performed by a surgeon in training before they are considered to have enough experience to ensure surgical safety. METHODS: Cumulative Sum (CUSUM) analysis was performed using the surgical data of OPDs performed during the training period of board-certified expert surgeons of the Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery. RESULTS: Fourteen HBP surgeons participated in this study and performed 334 OPDs during their training period. The median (interquartile range) values for operative time, blood loss, and length of hospital stay were 455 (397-519) minutes, 450 (234--716) ml, and 28 (21-38) days, respectively. CUSUM analysis showed inflection points at 20 surgeries performed for operative time. After 20 procedures, operative time was significantly shorter (461 min vs. 425 min, p = 0.021) and blood loss was significantly lower (470 ml vs. 340 ml, p = 0.038). No significant differences between within 20 and after 21 procedures were found in the complication rate (53% vs. 48%, p = 0.424) and rate of in-hospital deaths (1.5% vs.1.4%. p = 0.945). Up to 20 surgeries, PDAC and another malignant tumor had longer operative time than benign/low malignant diseases (486 min vs. 472 min vs. 429 min, p < 0.001), and higher blood loss (500 ml vs. 502 ml vs. 355 ml, p < 0.001). Mortality rate was higher at PDAC cases (5% vs. 0% vs. 0%, p = 0.01). After the 21 procedures, these outcomes were improved and no differences in by primary disease were observed. Multivariable analysis showed that within 20 surgeries were independent risk factors of longer operative time (HR2.6, p = 0.013) and higher blood loss (HR2.0, p = 0.049). CONCLUSIONS: To stabilize the surgical outcome of OPD for malignant disease, at least 20 surgeries should be performed at a certified institution during surgeon training. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical trial number: Not applicable.

DOI： 10.1186/s12893-024-02677-9

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

Abstract

The aim of this study is to compare long-term health outcomes between IVF-conceived children and non-IVF-conceived children in Japan, in the context of strong recommendation for single embryo transfer. Using data from a nationwide birth cohort linked with perinatal database, this study analyzed 2140 children born in Japan in May 2010. It compared child health and development outcomes up to 9 years of age between IVF-conceived and non-IVF-conceived children (binary exposure). A Poisson regression with robust variance to estimate the risk ratios for the association between IVF and various long-term child health and developmental outcomes. After adjusting for confounding factors, no significant differences were observed between IVF-conceived and naturally conceived children for most outcomes, including hospitalization, obesity, and developmental milestones. IVF-conceived children showed a slightly lower risk of attention problems at 8 years (adjusted Risk Ratio [aRR]: 0.73, 95% CI: 0.53–1.00). In subgroup analyses, IVF-conceived term children and singletons demonstrated reduced risk of cognitive delays at 5.5 years (aRR: 0.31, 95% CI: 0.10–0.96 and aRR: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.14–0.98, respectively).

Conclusion: In this Japanese cohort, IVF conception was not associated with adverse long-term health or developmental outcomes. These findings provide reassurance about the safety of IVF, particularly in the context of single embryo transfer policies. Further research is needed to explore specific IVF protocols and subgroups.

<table><tbody> <tr> <td colspan="2">What is known:• Long-term health and developmental outcomes of IVF-conceived children remain inconsistent across studies and populations, despite the widespread use of this technology.</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2">What is new:• A nationwide population-based cohort study in Japan did not show adverse effects of IVF on long-term child health and development through age 9.• These findings provide reassurance about the safety of IVF, while indicating the need for careful monitoring in specific subgroups such as preterm and multiple births.</td> </tr> </tbody></table>

DOI： 10.1007/s00431-024-05883-y

researchmap

Other Link： https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00431-024-05883-y/fulltext.html

Authorship：Last author   Publisher：Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory  

Follow-up studies evaluating the relationship between dyslipidemia and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in non-diabetic populations are limited. This longitudinal study (1998–2024) examined whether the prevalence of dyslipidemia is associated with the subsequent development of CKD in non-diabetic Japanese adult citizens of Zentsuji, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan. Dyslipidemia was defined as low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations ≥140 mg/dL, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations &lt;40 mg/dL, and/or triglyceride concentrations ≥150 mg/dL. Participants were considered to have developed CKD if their estimated glomerular filtration rate was &lt;60 mL/min/1.73 m². The proportional hazard assumptions were violated. Therefore, the Weibull accelerated failure-time model was selected using the Akaike and Bayesian information criteria. The final cohort included 5970 participants, 41.6% of whom were men. The mean follow-up was 7.09 years. After the follow-up, 1890 (31.7%) participants developed CKD. Participants with dyslipidemia had a 5% shorter survival time (95% confidence interval: 3%–7%) to incident CKD compared with those without dyslipidemia in the full model. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations &lt;40 mg/dL and triglyceride concentrations ≥150 mg/dL also reduced the survival time to CKD onset by 5%–6%. Our results provide further evidence that controlling the lipid profile to an appropriate range may prevent the future onset of CKD.

DOI： 10.1101/2024.10.25.24315968

researchmap

Language：English   Publisher：(一社)日本血液学会  

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Elsevier BV  

DOI： 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.126156

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

This study investigated the correlation between oxidative stress and blood amino acids associated with nitric oxide metabolism in adult patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pneumonia. Clinical data and serum samples were prospectively collected from 100 adult patients hospitalized for COVID-19 between July 2020 and August 2021. Patients with COVID-19 were categorized into three groups for analysis based on lung infiltrates, oxygen inhalation upon admission, and the initiation of oxygen therapy after admission. Blood data, oxidative stress-related biomarkers, and serum amino acid levels upon admission were compared in these groups. Patients with lung infiltrations requiring oxygen therapy upon admission or starting oxygen post-admission exhibited higher serum levels of hydroperoxides and lower levels of citrulline compared to the control group. No remarkable differences were observed in nitrite/nitrate, asymmetric dimethylarginine, and arginine levels. Serum citrulline levels correlated significantly with serum lactate dehydrogenase and C-reactive protein levels. A significant negative correlation was found between serum levels of citrulline and hydroperoxides. Levels of hydroperoxides decreased, and citrulline levels increased during the recovery period compared to admission. Patients with COVID-19 with extensive pneumonia or poor oxygenation showed increased oxidative stress and reduced citrulline levels in the blood compared to those with fewer pulmonary complications. These findings suggest that combined oxidative stress and abnormal citrulline metabolism may play a role in the pathogenesis of COVID-19 pneumonia.

DOI： 10.3390/ijms25158370

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1016/j.jgo.2024.101837

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Cholecystitis can occur after self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) placement for malignant biliary obstruction (MBO), but the best treatment option for cholecystitis has not been determined. Here, we aimed to identify the risk factors of cholecystitis after SEMS placement and determine the best treatment option. METHODS: Incidence, treatments, and predictive factors of cholecystitis were retrospectively evaluated in 1084 patients with distal MBO (DMBO) and 353 patients with hilar MBO (HMBO) who underwent SEMS placement at 12 institutions from January 2012 to March 2021. RESULTS: Cholecystitis occurred in 7.5% of patients with DMBO and 5.9% of patients with HMBO. The recurrence rate was significantly lower (P = .043) and the recurrence-free period significantly longer (P = .039) in endoscopic procedures than in percutaneous procedures for cholecystitis treatment. EUS-guided gallbladder drainage (EUS-GBD) was better in terms of technical success, procedure time, and recurrence-free period than endoscopic transpapillary gallbladder drainage. Obstruction across the cystic duct orifice by tumor (P = .015) and by stent (P = .037) were independent risk factors for cholecystitis in DMBO. Cases with multiple SEMS placements (odds ratio [OR], 11; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.68-190; P = .091) and with gallbladder stones (OR, 2.3; 95% CI ,0.92-5.6; P = .075) had a higher risk for cholecystitis in HMBO. CONCLUSIONS: The incidences of cholecystitis after SEMS placement for DMBO and HMBO were similar. EUS-GBD is the optimal treatment option for patients with cholecystitis after SEMS placement for MBO.

DOI： 10.1016/j.gie.2024.02.019

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Wiley  

Abstract

Brentuximab vedotin (BV), a conjugate of anti‐CD30 antibody and monomethyl auristatin E, has emerged as a promising treatment option for refractory CD30+ mycosis fungoides (MF) and primary cutaneous anaplastic large‐cell lymphoma (pcALCL). BV has been shown to be safe and effective in treating Hodgkin's lymphoma and peripheral T‐cell lymphoma. This multicenter, prospective, single‐arm phase I/II study evaluated the efficacy of BV in Japanese patients with CD30+ cutaneous lymphomas, namely CD30+ cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma. Participants were divided into two groups: those with CD30+ MF or pcALCL (cohort 1, n = 13) and those with CD30+ lymphoproliferative disorders other than those in cohort 1 (cohort 2, n = 3). The studied population included the full analysis set (FAS), modified FAS (mFAS), and safety analysis set (SAF). These sets were identified in cohorts 1 and 1 + 2 and labeled FAS1 and FAS2, mFAS1 and mFAS2, and SAF1 and SAF2, respectively. Each treatment cycle lasted 3 weeks, and BV was continued for up to 16 cycles after the third cycle based on treatment response. The primary endpoint was the 4‐month objective response rate (ORR4) determined by the Independent Review Forum (IRF). ORR4 was 69.2% for FAS1 and 62.5% for FAS2 (P &lt; 0.0001). Secondary endpoints of ORR, assessed using the global response score (53.8% in FAS1) and modified severity‐weighted assessment tool (62.5% in FAS1), using the IRF, provided results comparable to the primary findings. The incidence of ≥grade 3 adverse events (≥15%) in SAF1 was peripheral neuropathy in three patients (23%) and fever and eosinophilia in two patients (15%). In conclusion, BV showed favorable efficacy, tolerability, and safety profile in Japanese patients with relapsed or refractory CD30+ primary cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma. The trial was registered with University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry, Japan (protocol ID: UMIN000034205).

DOI： 10.1111/1346-8138.17324

researchmap

Publisher：Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory  

AimThe objective of this study was to explore the relationship between serum aspartate/alanine aminotransferase ratio (AST/ALT) and subsequent development of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in non-diabetic Japanese men and women in a 25-year follow-up study.MethodsThe study included all middle-aged and older non-diabetic Japanese citizens who received health check-ups in Zentsuji, Kagawa, Japan (1998–2023). AST/ALT was classified into three categories: &lt;1.0 (reference), 1.0–&lt;1.5, and ≥1.5. Participant characteristics were compared by AST/ALT categories. The Weibull accelerated failure time model was used to examine the association between AST/ALT categories and subsequent CKD onset because the proportional hazards assumption was violated.ResultsOf 6309 men and 9192 women, 2966 men and 4395 women remained in the final cohort. After a mean follow-up of 7.50 years for men and 8.34 years for women, 33.7% of men and 34.0% of women developed CKD. Women had higher AST/ALT than men. In women, a dose-response relationship was observed, with a 9% shorter survival time to CKD onset for AST/ALT ≥1.5 compared with AST/ALT &lt;1.0. In contrast, men had a shorter survival time to CKD onset by point estimates, but the 95% confidence intervals crossed 1 in all models.ConclusionsIn this study comparing the risks of CKD development in non-diabetic men and women by AST/ALT levels, a dose-response relationship was only observed in women. Differences in the distribution of AST/ALT by sex may have affected the results. Therefore, in non-diabetic Japanese women, AST/ALT may be used as an indicator of future CKD development.

DOI： 10.1101/2024.05.20.24307032

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: Otitis media (OM) is a prevalent respiratory disease in children and poses significant public health challenges due to its impact on child health and economic burdens. However, there have no nationwide epidemiological studies conducted in Japan. This study investigates the epidemiological trends of OM in Japan, taking into account the impact of the 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) introduction. METHOD: This study was retrospective cohort study using secondary data on the nationwide longitudinal birth cohort. This survey followed two cohorts born in 2001 (pre-PCV era) and 2010 (post-PCV era) until the age of 9. Every year, parents were surveyed about their children's health status, including occurrences of OM. The annual period prevalence and cumulative incidence of OM were assessed in this study, and the two cohorts were compared using a modified Poisson regression model adjusted environmental factors with the 2001 cohort as reference. RESULT: The study included 47,015 children from the 2001 cohort and 38,554 from the 2010 cohort. Peak annual period prevalence of OM varied by era. Cumulative incidence was 13.8 % for the 2001 cohort and 18.5 % for the 2010 cohort by 1.5 years of age and 28.9 % and 33.3 %, respectively, by 3.5 years of age. In particular, from the fourth survey onward, covering ages 2.5-3.5 years, a shift was observed from an increased risk to a decreased risk of OM. CONCLUSION: This nationwide longitudinal study emphasizes variations in OM epidemiology across Japan over time, with changes potentially influenced by the introduction of PCV7. In this study, due to the absence of individual PCV7 vaccination data, the effect of PCV7 was estimated based on the vaccination rate at the population level. The results suggest a notable decrease in the incidence of OM in later years, aligning with the increased uptake of PCV7.

DOI： 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.05.020

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: Double-flap technique (DFT) is a reconstruction procedure after proximal gastrectomy (PG). We previously reported a multi-center, retrospective study in which the incidence of reflux esophagitis (RE) (Los Angeles Classification ≥Grade B [LA-B]) 1 year after surgery was 6.0%. There have been many reports, but all of them were retrospective. Thus, a multi-center, prospective study was conducted. METHODS: Laparoscopic PG + DFT was performed for cT1N0 upper gastric cancer patients. The primary endpoint was the incidence of RE (≥LA-B) 1 year after surgery. The planned sample size was 40, based on an estimated incidence of 6.0% and an upper threshold of 20%. RESULTS: Forty patients were recruited, and 39, excluding one with conversion to total gastrectomy, received protocol treatment. Anastomotic leakage (Clavien-Dindo ≥Grade III) was observed in one patient (2.6%). In 38 patients, excluding one case of postoperative mortality, RE (≥LA-B) was observed in two patients (5.3%) 1 year after surgery, and the upper limit of the 95% confidence interval was 17.3%, lower than the 20% threshold. Anastomotic stricture requiring dilatation was observed in two patients (5.3%). One year after surgery, body weight change was 88.9 ± 7.0%, and PNI <40 and CONUT ≥5, indicating malnutrition, were observed in only one patient (2.6%) each. In the quality of life survey using the PGSAS-45 questionnaire, the esophageal reflux subscale score was 1.4 ± 0.6, significantly better than the public data (2.0 ± 1.0; p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic DFT showed anti-reflux efficacy. Taken together with the acceptable incidence of anastomotic stricture, DFT can be an option for reconstruction procedure after PG.

DOI： 10.1002/ags3.12783

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: Understanding the association between the immune response and the risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has implications for forthcoming prevention strategies. We evaluated the association between antibody titers and the risk of infection for the general population during the Omicron-dominant phase. METHODS: This was a prospective cohort study of residents or people affiliated with institutions in Bizen City, which included 1,899 participants. We measured the titers of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 repeatedly every 2 months from June 2022 to March 2023. Infection status was obtained from self-reported questionnaires and the official registry. We estimated risk ratios (RRs) for infection within 2 months of the date of each antibody measurement with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) based on antibody titer categories and spline functions. RESULTS: Compared with the <2,500 arbitrary unit (AU)/mL category, the 2,500-5,000, 5,000-10,000, and ≥10,000 AU/mL categories had adjusted RRs (95% CI) of 0.81 (0.61-1.08), 0.51 (0.36-0.72), and 0.41 (0.31-0.54), respectively. The spline function showed a non-linear relationship between antibody titer and risk. CONCLUSIONS: Higher antibody titers were associated with a lower risk. We demonstrate the usefulness of measuring an antibody titers to determine the appropriate timing for future vaccination.

DOI： 10.1093/infdis/jiae207

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1186/s13195-024-01450-7

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

This study aimed to evaluate the potential reduction in contrast medium utilization using photon-counting detector computed tomography (PCD-CT). One PCD-CT scan (CT1) and three conventional (non-PCD-CT) CT scans (CT2-CT4) were performed using a multi-energy CT phantom that contained eight rods with different iodine concentrations (0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/ml). The CT values of the seven groups (CT1 for 40, 50, 60, and 70 keV; and CT2-4) were measured. Noise and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were assessed for the eight rods at various iodine concentrations. CT2 and CT1 (40 keV) respectively required 20 mg/ml and 5 mg/ml of iodine, indicating that a comparable contrast effect could be obtained with approximately one-fourth of the contrast medium amount. The standard deviation values increased at lower energy levels irrespective of the iodine concentration. The CNR exhibited a decreasing trend with lower iodine concentrations, while it remained relatively stable across all iodine levels (40-70 keV). This study demonstrated that virtual monochromatic 40 keV images offer a similar contrast effect with a reduced contrast medium amount when compared to conventional CT systems at 120 kV.

DOI： 10.18926/AMO/66916

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

Abstract

Global concern over COVID-19 vaccine distribution disparities highlights the need for strategic booster shots. We explored longitudinal antibody responses post-booster during the Omicron wave in a Japanese cohort, emphasizing prior infection and booster doses. This prospective cohort study included 1763 participants aged 18 years and older with at least three vaccine doses (7376 datapoints). Antibody levels were measured every 2 months. We modeled temporal declines in antibody levels after COVID-19 vaccine boosters according to prior infection status and booster doses using a Bayesian linear mixed-effects interval-censored model, considering age, sex, underlying conditions, and lifestyle. Prior infection enhanced post-booster immunity (posterior median 0.346, 95% credible interval [CrI] 0.335–0.355), maintaining antibody levels (posterior median 0.021; 95% CrI 0.019–0.023) over 1 year, in contrast to uninfected individuals whose levels had waned by 8 months post-vaccination. Each additional booster was correlated with higher baseline antibody levels and slower declines, comparing after the third dose. Female sex, older age, immunosuppressive status, and smoking history were associated with lower baseline post-vaccination antibodies, but not associated with decline rates except for older age in the main model. Prior infection status and tailored, efficient, personalized booster strategies are crucial, considering sex, age, health conditions, and lifestyle.

DOI： 10.1038/s41598-024-55245-9

researchmap

Other Link： https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-55245-9

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Wiley  

Abstract

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic has impacted healthcare behaviors, leading to fewer pediatric visits in Japan and potentially fewer visits by adult patients. However, existing Japanese studies on treatment interruptions have generally relied on questionnaire‐based methods. In this study, we assessed the impact of the pandemic on antihypertensive treatment interruption using real‐world prescription data.

Methods

We conducted an interrupted time series analysis using the National Health Insurance Database in Okayama Prefecture, Japan. Participants included individuals aged 40–69 years with at least one antihypertensive prescription between 2018 and 2020. Treatment interruption was defined as a 3‐month or longer gap in prescriptions after medication depletion. We used segmented Poisson regression with models unadjusted and adjusted for seasonality and over‐dispersion to assess monthly treatment interruptions before and after Japan's April 2020 emergency.

Results

During the study period, 23.0% of 55,431 participants experienced treatment interruptions. Cyclical fluctuations in interruptions were observed. The crude analysis indicated a 1.2‐fold increase in treatment interruptions following the pandemic; however, the adjusted models showed no significant changes. Even among higher‐risk groups, such as women, younger adults, and those with shorter prescriptions, no significant alterations were observed.

Conclusion

We found no significant impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on antihypertensive treatment interruption in Okayama Prefecture. The less severe outbreak in the area or increased use of telemedicine and extended prescriptions may have contributed to treatment continuity. Further research is needed using a more stable and comprehensive database, broader regional data, and detailed prescription records to validate and extend our findings.

DOI： 10.1002/jgf2.678

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

OBJECTIVES: Histidine-rich glycoprotein has been reported as an anti-inflammatory glycoprotein that inhibits acute lung injury in mice with sepsis and as a prognostic biomarker in patients with sepsis. We investigated the relationship between plasma concentrations of histidine-rich glycoprotein and the risk of occurrence of primary graft dysfunction. METHODS: According to the primary graft dysfunction grade at post-transplant 72 h, patients who underwent lung transplantation were divided into three groups: non-primary graft dysfunction group (grade 0-1), moderate primary graft dysfunction group (grade 2), and severe primary graft dysfunction group (grade 3). The plasma concentrations of histidine-rich glycoprotein measured daily during the first post-transplant 7 days were compared among the three groups. Appropriate cutoff values of the concentrations were set for survival analyses after lung transplantation. RESULTS: A total of 68 patients were included. The plasma histidine-rich glycoprotein concentration at post-transplant 72 h was significantly lower in the severe primary graft dysfunction group (n = 7) than in the other two groups [non-primary graft dysfunction group (n = 43), P = 0.042; moderate primary graft dysfunction group (n = 18), P = 0.040]. Patients with plasma histidine-rich glycoprotein concentration ≥34.4 µg/ml at post-transplant 72 h had significantly better chronic lung allograft dysfunction-free survival (P = 0.012) and overall survival (P = 0.037) than those with the concentration <34.4 µg/ml. CONCLUSIONS: Plasma histidine-rich glycoprotein concentrations at post-transplant 72 h might be associated with the risk of development of primary graft dysfunction.

DOI： 10.1093/icvts/ivae021

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Elsevier BV  

DOI： 10.1016/j.ajic.2024.02.006

researchmap

Publisher：Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory  

Abstract

Objective

Obesity is a risk factor for the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, little is known about the relationship between the Asia-Pacific body mass index classification (Asia-Pacific classification) and the development of CKD in non-diabetic Asian men and women.

Methods

Body mass index (BMI) was categorized in accordance with the Asia-Pacific classification: underweight (&lt;18.5 kg/m²), normal weight (18.5–22.9 kg/m²), overweight (23.0–24.9 kg/m²), obesity class I (25.0–29.9 kg/m²), and obesity class II (≥30.0 kg/m²). Using administrative checkup data for non-diabetic Japanese adults (1998–2023), we assessed the relationship between the Asia-Pacific classification and the development of CKD by sex. The Weibull accelerated failure time model was selected because the proportional hazards assumption was violated.

Results

In total, 34.2% of 3098 men and 34.8% of 4391 women had developed CKD. The mean follow-up time was 7.41 years for men and 8.25 years for women. Compared with normal weight, obesity class I was associated with a 6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2%–10%) shorter time to CKD development in men and a 6% (95% CI: 2%–9%) shorter time to CKD development in women. Obesity class II was associated with the shortest survival to the development of CKD by point estimate in men but had an almost null value in women (i.e., 95% CIs crossed 1 in all of the models).

Conclusions

Among non-diabetic Japanese men and women, obesity class I in the Asia-Pacific classification was associated with a shorter survival time to CKD onset than normal weight. Low point estimates for obesity class II suggested a dose-response relationship in men but a less clear relationship in women. The conventional cutoff value for obesity, BMI ≥30.0 kg/m², may be too high a risk factor for the development of CKD in non-diabetic Asians, regardless of sex.

DOI： 10.1101/2024.01.06.23300566

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: Epidural analgesia (EDA) is a main modality for postoperative pain relief in major open abdominal surgery within the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocol. However, it remains unclear whether EDA is an imperative modality in laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG). This study examined non-inferiority of patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) to EDA in terms of postoperative pain and recovery in patients who underwent LG. METHODS: In this open-label, non-inferiority, parallel, individually randomized clinical trial, patients who underwent elective LG for gastric cancer were randomized 1:1 to receive either EDA or PCIA after surgery. The primary endpoint was pain score using the Numerical Rating Scale at rest 24 h after surgery, analysed both according to the intention-to-treat (ITT) principle and per protocol. The non-inferiority margin for pain score was set at 1. Secondary outcomes were postoperative parameters related to recovery and adverse events related to analgesia. RESULTS: Between 3 July 2017 and 29 September 2020, 132 patients were randomized to receive either EDA (n = 66) or PCIA (n = 66). After exclusions, 64 patients were included in the EDA group and 65 patients in the PCIA group for the ITT analysis. Pain score at rest 24 h after surgery was 1.94 (s.d. 2.07) in the EDA group and 2.63 (s.d. 1.76) in the PCIA group (P = 0.043). PCIA was not non-inferior to EDA for the primary endpoint (difference 0.69, one side 95% c.i. 1.25, P = 0.184) in ITT analysis. Postoperative parameters related to recovery were similar between groups. More EDA patients (21 (32.8%) versus 1 (1.5%), P < 0.001) developed postoperative hypotension as an adverse event. CONCLUSIONS: PCIA was not non-inferior to EDA in terms of early-phase pain relief after LG.Registration number: UMIN000027643 (https://www.umin.ac.jp/ctr/index-j.htm).

DOI： 10.1093/bjsopen/zrad161

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: Lymphatic venous anastomosis is associated with a low incidence of lower extremity lymphoedema-associated cellulitis; however, the exact relationship is unknown. This multicentre RCT evaluated the effect of lymphatic venous anastomosis on prevention of cellulitis. METHODS: Patients with secondary lower extremity lymphoedema who underwent at least 3 months of non-operative decongestive therapy were assigned randomly to lymphatic venous anastomosis or conservative therapy. The primary and secondary outcomes were cellulitis frequency, and assessments of circumference, hardness, and pain respectively. RESULTS: Overall, 336 patients were divided into two groups: 225 in the full-analysis set (primary outcome 225; secondary outcomes 170) and 156 in the per-protocol set (primary outcome 156; secondary outcomes 110). In both analyses, lymphatic venous anastomosis with non-operative decongestive therapy was more effective in preventing cellulitis than non-operative decongestive therapy alone; the difference between groups in reducing cellulitis frequency over 6 months was -0.35 (95 per cent c.i. -0.62 to -0.09; P = 0.010) in the full-analysis set (FAS) and -0.60 (-0.94 to -0.27; P = 0.001) in the per-protocol set (PPS) Limb circumference and pain were not significantly different, but lymphatic venous anastomosis reduced thigh area hardness (proximal medial and distal and lateral proximal). Four patients experienced contact dermatitis with non-operative decongestive therapy alone. CONCLUSION: Lymphatic venous anastomosis in combination with non-operative decongestive therapy prevents cellulitis. REGISTRATION NUMBER: UMIN00025137, UMIN00031462.

DOI： 10.1093/bjs/znad372

PubMed

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(一社)日本疫学会  

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：National Center for Global Health and Medicine (JST)  

DOI： 10.35772/ghmo.2023.01018

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：Japanese Society of Stomatognathic Function  

In clinical trials, it is necessary to design the sample size in advance from scientific, ethical, and practical aspects. This paper describes key points and practical methods for designing sample size. First, the sample size must be designed without calculation in some cases, such as in observational studies using only existing information or studies on rare diseases. On the other hand, when calculating sample size, there are three factors to consider: alpha, beta, and effect size. Once these three points are determined, the sample size is calculated using a calculation tool. There is little room for consideration of α and β since they are often set at 0.05 and 0.2, respectively. Therefore, the sample size calculation effect size should be fully considered. In determining the effect size, it is recommended to refer to values from previous literature and similar studies or to adopt clinically meaningful values. It is also important to note that the elements that should be determined as the effect size varies depending on the study design and primary endpoint. Furthermore, there are more matters to consider in complex study designs（e.g., studies with matching, survival time analysis, non-inferiority trials, etc.）, and sample size design can be complicated if you are unfamiliar with it. In such cases, it is recommended that biostatisticians or epidemiologists be consulted to employ appropriate calculation methods.

DOI： 10.7144/sgf.30.83

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

This study investigated the association between housing type and clinical remission of infantile-onset allergic rhinitis (AR) in 53,575 children born in 2001 in Japan. Infantile-onset AR was defined as the presence of AR symptoms reported between ages 1.5 and 4.5 years, and remission was assessed between ages 10 and 12. The type of housing was categorized into detached houses and multi-unit residential buildings with 1-2, 3-5, or ≥6 floors. Among the 4,352 infantile-onset AR, 42.9% experienced remission. Notably, living in multi-unit residential buildings, particularly those with 1-2 and ≥6 floors, was positively associated with AR remission.

DOI： 10.1016/j.pedhc.2023.11.011

PubMed

researchmap

Authorship：Last author   Publisher：Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory  

Abstract

Background and Aims

Hypertension is a risk factor for developing chronic kidney disease (CKD). Studies of adult participants in the USA reported that hypertension increased the risk of developing CKD even in the non-diabetic population. However, studies in non-diabetic populations are limited and additional studies in other races are required. This study aimed to examine the relationship between hypertension and the development of CKD in non-diabetic Asian adults.

Methods and Results

In this longitudinal study, non-diabetic Japanese adults who took annual checkups from 1998 to 2023 were included. CKD was defined as &lt;60 mL/min/1.73 m², and hypertension was classified into four levels according to the guidelines of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association. The Weibull accelerated failure time model was selected because the proportional hazards assumption was violated. Of the 7 363 (men: 40.3%) people in the final cohort, 2 498 (men: 40.1%) developed CKD after a mean follow-up of 7.99 years. Elevated blood pressure (BP) and hypertension stage 2 had a 9% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1%–16%) and 11% (95% CI: 5%–17%) shorter survival time to CKD onset, respectively, than normal BP. Hypertension stage 1 also had a shorter survival to CKD onset by point estimate, but all 95% CIs crossed 1 in all models.

Conclusions

In a relatively healthy Asian population without diabetes, controlling BP to an appropriate range reduces the risk of developing CKD.

DOI： 10.1101/2023.12.06.23299067

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

This paper presents the results of a series of surveys conducted from July 2021 to March 2023 to investigate the post-vaccination adverse reactions to the mRNA-1273 (Moderna) vaccine among faculty, staff, and students at Okayama University. These studies complement the official surveys conducted by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) and provide a more representative picture of adverse reactions in the general population including large numbers of healthy young people. Pain, swelling, redness at the injection site, fever, headache, and malaise were the main adverse reactions reported. The proportion of adverse reactions was generally higher after the second vaccination and decreased with each additional vaccination. No statistically significant differences in the adverse reactions were found for males and females and those with/without a history of allergy, but a lower proportion of fever was observed in older participants and those with underlying medical conditions. We also evaluated the association between adverse reactions and antibody titers after the third vaccination and found no significant differences in antibody levels one month after vaccination. This series of studies highlights the importance of conducting surveys in diverse populations to provide a more representative picture of post-vaccination adverse reactions during a pandemic.

DOI： 10.18926/AMO/66148

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：OKAYAMA UNIV MED SCHOOL  

Many studies have shown an association between long-term exposure to particulate matter having an aerodynamic diameter of 2.5 μm or less (PM2.5) and diabetes mellitus (DM), but few studies have focused on Asian subjects. We thus examined the association between long-term exposure to PM2.5 and DM prevalence in Okayama City, Japan. We included 76,591 participants who had received basic health checkups in 2006 and 2007. We assigned the census-level modeled PM2.5 data from 2006 and 2007 to each participant and defined DM using treatment status and the blood testing. PM2.5 was associated with DM prevalence, and the prevalence ratio (95% confidence interval) was 1.10 (1.00-1.20) following each interquartile range increase (2.1 μg/m3) in PM2.5. This finding is consistent with previous results and suggests that long-term exposure to PM2.5 is associated with an increased prevalence of DM in Okayama City, Japan, where the PM2.5 level is lower than in other cities in Asian countries.

DOI： 10.18926/AMO/66152

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：BMJ  

Objective

To evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic experience on language development among children, we compared language development at 18 months of age, before and during the pandemic in Japan, where strict control measures continued over a long period.

Methods

This was a repeated cross-sectional study and we included children who attended the 18-month health check-up provided by the Okayama City Public Health Center between January 2017 and December 2022 (n=33 484). We compared indicators of language development before (from January 2017 to February 2020) and during (from March 2020 to December 2022) the pandemic. Our primary outcome was the proportion of children who required follow-up for language development by the Public Health Center. The secondary outcome was the proportion of children who could not say three or more meaningful words. We estimated risk ratios (RRs) and their 95% CIs, adjusted for potential confounders.

Results

The prevalence of the primary outcome was 33.5% before the pandemic and 36% during the pandemic. Compared with before the pandemic, increased RRs for the primary and secondary outcomes were observed during the pandemic, with RRs (95% CIs) of 1.09 (1.06–1.13) for the primary outcome and 1.11 (1.05–1.17) for the secondary outcome. Although the statistical interactions were not significant, the RRs were higher for children cared for at home than those in nursery schools and with ≤3 family members than those with ≥4 family members.

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with an increased risk of impaired language development in children at 18 months. More extensive support is needed for higher risk families, as well as follow-up of long-term language development in children affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

DOI： 10.1136/archdischild-2023-325926

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

AIMS: Clear cell sarcoma (CCS) of soft-tissue is a rare melanocytic subtype of mesenchymal malignancy. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical and therapeutic factors associated with increased survival, stratified by clinical stage, in order to determine the optimal treatment. METHODS: The study was a retrospective analysis involving 117 patients with histologically confirmed CCS, between July 2016 and November 2017, who were enrolled in the Bone and Soft Tissue Tumour Registry in Japan. RESULTS: The five- and ten-year survival rates were 41% (95% confidence interval (CI) 29 to 52) and 37% (95% CI 25 to 49), respectively. On multivariable analysis, the size of the tumour of > 10 cm (p = 0.006), lymph node metastasis at the time of diagnosis (p < 0.001), distant metastases at the time of diagnosis (p < 0.001), and no surgery for the primary tumour (p = 0.019) were independently associated with a poor survival. For N0M0 CCS (n = 68), the development of distant metastases was an independent prognostic factor for survival (early (< 12 months), hazard ratio (HR) 116.78 (95% CI 11.69 to 1,166.50); p < 0.001; late (> 12 months), HR 14.79 (95% CI 1.66 to 131.63); p = 0.016); neoadjuvant/adjuvant chemotherapy (p = 0.895) and/or radiotherapy (p = 0.216) were not significantly associated with survival. The five-year cumulative incidence of local recurrence was 19% (95% CI 8 to 35) and the size of the tumour was significantly associated with an increased rate of local recurrence (p = 0.012). For N1M0 CCS (n = 18), the risk of mortality was significantly lower in patients who underwent surgery for both the primary tumour and lymph node metastases (HR 0.03 (95% CI 0.00 to 0.56); p = 0.020). For M1 CCS (n = 31), excision of the primary tumour was independently associated with better survival (HR 0.26 (95% CI 0.09 to 0.76); p = 0.013). There was no significant difference in survival between the different types of systemic treatment (p = 0.523). CONCLUSION: Complete excision of the primary tumour and lymph nodes is associated with a better survival in patients with CCS. Systemic treatment appears to provide limited benefits, demonstrating a pressing need for novel systemic agents.

DOI： 10.1302/0301-620X.105B11.BJJ-2022-0743.R3

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

INTRODUCTION: In Japan, approximately 97 million individuals have received their primary two doses of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine at the end of 2022. In this study, we aim to examine the effectiveness of the primary vaccines and compare its efficacy to booster vaccine shots in terms of preventing COVID-19 exacerbations during the Omicron-predominant period in Japan. METHODS: For this analysis, we have collected all the confirmed COVID-19-positive cases from different medical institutions in Okayama City and have also utilized the information from the public Vaccination Record System. Taking the number of vaccinations into consideration, we then conducted a population-based study to assess the effectiveness of the two primary vaccine doses in preventing COVID-19 exacerbations during the Omicron waves. Our primary and secondary outcomes were COVID-19 exacerbations with respiratory failure (i.e., oxygen saturation on room air ≤ 93%, requiring supplemental oxygen), intensive care unit admission and/or mechanical ventilator requirement, or death, in accordance with the Japanese COVID-19 guidelines, and pneumonia during the course of COVID-19 infection, respectively. RESULTS: In total, 95,329 COVID-19-positive individuals, aged 5 years and above, were included in this analysis (study period from January 1 to September 10, 2022). As per our findings, the effectiveness of the primary two doses against COVID-19 exacerbations compared with those who had never been vaccinated was 55.5% (95% confidential interval [CI]: 32.6-71.7), whereas it was higher after the third dose (76.9%; 95% CI: 66.7-84.0) and the fourth dose (75.7%; 95% CI: 58.8-85.7). Effectiveness was sustained for ≥ 5 months after the third vaccination, and preventive effectiveness was observed in individuals aged ≥ 65 years. CONCLUSIONS: As per the results of this study, we can conclude that the efficacy of the primary two doses of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine can be further strengthened in terms of preventing COVID-19 exacerbations by administering third and fourth booster vaccine shots. The additional bivalent vaccine is anticipated to further increase its efficacy against the Omicron strain, suggesting that individuals who have not received their booster shots yet should consider getting them to prevent COVID-19 exacerbations.

DOI： 10.31662/jmaj.2023-0019

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.31662/jmaj.2023-0019.

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

PURPOSE: This single-center, single-arm, prospective, open-label study was conducted to evaluate the optimal number of cores (single or multiple) in renal tumor biopsy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-four biopsies of 44 tumors (mean diameter, 2.7 ± 1.0 cm; range, 1.6-5.0 cm) were included. Biopsy was performed under ultrasound or computed tomography fluoroscopy guidance using an 18-gauge cutting needle and the co-axial method. Two or more specimens were obtained, which were divided into first and subsequent specimens. "First specimen" and "all specimens" were histologically evaluated (i.e., appropriateness of specimen, histological diagnosis, subtype, and Fuhrman grade of renal cell carcinoma [RCC]) blindly and independently by two board-certified pathologists. RESULTS: Multiple specimens were successfully and safely obtained in all the biopsies. All tumors were histologically diagnosed; 40 malignancies included 39 RCCs and 1 solitary fibrous tumor, and 4 benign lesions included 2 angiomyolipomas, 1 oncocytoma, and 1 capillary hemangioma. In all RCCs, the subtype could be determined (32 clear cell RCCs, 4 chromophobe RCCs, and 3 papillary RCCs), and the Furman grade was determined in 38 RCCs. When only the first specimen was evaluated, 22.7% of the specimens were inappropriate for diagnosis, and 34 (77.3%) were histologically diagnosed. The diagnostic yield was significantly lower than that of all specimens (P = 0.0044). Univariate analysis revealed that smaller lesions were a significant predictor of diagnostic failure (P = 0.020). CONCLUSION: Biopsy with multiple cores significantly improved diagnostic yield. Thus, operators should obtain multiple cores during renal tumor biopsy.

DOI： 10.1007/s11604-023-01496-x

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Japan Epidemiological Association  

DOI： 10.2188/jea.je20230034

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major global public health problem. Recent studies reported that diabetes and prediabetes are risk factors for developing CKD; however, the exact glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) cut-off value for prediabetes remains controversial. In this study, we aimed to examine the relationship between HbA1c levels and subsequent CKD development in greater detail than previous studies. Longitudinal data of annual checkups of 7176 Japanese non-diabetic people (male: 40.4%) from 1998 to 2022 was analyzed. HbA1c values were categorized into < 5.0%, 5.0-5.4%, 5.5-5.9%, and 6.0-6.4%. CKD was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2. The descriptive statistics at study entry showed that higher HbA1c values were associated with male, older, overweight or obese, hypertensive, or dyslipidemic people. During a mean follow-up of 7.75 person-years, 2374 participants (male: 40.0%) developed CKD. The Weibull accelerated failure time model was selected because the proportional hazards assumption was violated. The adjusted time ratios of developing CKD for HbA1c levels of 5.5-5.9% and 6.0-6.4% compared with 5.0-5.4% were 0.97 (95% confidence interval: 0.92-1.03) and 1.01 (95% confidence interval: 0.90-1.13), respectively. There was no association between HbA1c in the prediabetic range and subsequent CKD development.

DOI： 10.1038/s41598-023-40300-8

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Elsevier BV  

DOI： 10.1016/j.jiac.2023.08.004

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Oxford University Press (OUP)  

Abstract

Background

Postpartum depression is experienced by approximately 10% of women and affects the health and development of their children. Although it is recommended that all mothers have the opportunity for early detection and intervention for postpartum depression, it is unclear whether early postpartum check-ups help to reduce postpartum depression.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of 2-week postpartum check-ups on screening positive for postpartum depression in Japan.

Methods

This was a population-based cohort study that used the administrative database of Tsuyama, Japan. Participants were women who received postpartum home visits from a public health nurse in Tsuyama during the fiscal years 2017–2019. Data were obtained on participant’s attendance at a 2-week postpartum check-up and their responses on the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale. Owing to the initiation of a publicly funded postpartum check-up programme, participants were pseudo-randomly assigned to receive/not receive a 2-week postpartum check-up. We conducted instrumental variable estimation to assess the causal effects of the check-up on screening positive for postpartum depression.

Results

The characteristics of the 1,382 participants did not differ by fiscal year of childbirth. We found a 6.7% (95% confidence interval 2.2–11.2) reduction in the prevalence of screening positive for postpartum depression as an effect of 2-week postpartum check-ups among women received 1-month postpartum home visits.

Conclusion

The results suggest that 2-week postpartum check-ups are effective in reducing the prevalence of screening positive for postpartum depression among 1-month postpartum women. Despite some limitations, early postpartum care could reduce postpartum depression.

DOI： 10.1093/fampra/cmad074

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

DOI： 10.1007/s00431-023-05062-5

researchmap

Other Link： https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00431-023-05062-5/fulltext.html

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

Introduction: The association between complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use and other health-related behaviors is an important issue. A previous study reported that complementary medicine use is related to greater use of cancer screening, whereas alternative medicine use is related to lower use of cancer screening. Given the sparse evidence from Japan, we aimed to examine the association of CAM use with cancer screening and medical checkups. We used a repeated cross-sectional survey of a nationally representative sample of Japanese people and conducted age-period-cohort analysis. Methods: The study population was 68,217 of 83,827 individuals observed from 2001 to 2013 who received cancer screening. CAM users were defined as individuals who received acupuncture, moxibustion, anma/massage/shiatsu, or judo therapy for their most worrisome symptom. The outcomes of interest were receiving stomach, lung, colorectal, uterine, and breast cancer screenings and medical checkups. Using crossclassified multilevel logistic regression models, we estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% credible intervals (CIs) for cancer screening and medical checkups. Results: For CAM users of complementary medicine, the adjusted ORs for stomach, lung, and colorectal cancer screening were 1.40 (95% CI: 1.35-1.44), 1.37 (95% CI: 1.34-1.40), and 1.52 (95% CI: 1.49-1.54), respectively. We found similar results for uterine and breast cancer screening, and medical checkups. Conclusions: Irrespective of whether they use CAM, CAM users in Japan tend to receive a variety of cancer screenings and medical checkups.

DOI： 10.1089/jicm.2023.0077

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: We previously demonstrated that the Kyoto classification of gastritis was useful for judging the status of Helicobacter pylori infection in a population-based screening program, and that adding H. pylori antibody test improved its accuracy (UMIN000028629). Here, we tested whether our endoscopic diagnosis of H. pylori infection status reliably estimated gastric cancer risk in the program. METHODS: Data were collected from1345 subjects who underwent endoscopic follow-up 4 years after the end of the registration. We analyzed the association of three diagnostic methods of H. pylori infection with gastric cancer detection: (1) endoscopic diagnosis based on the Kyoto classification of gastritis; (2) serum diagnosis according to the ABC method (H. pylori antibody and pepsinogen I and II); and (3) endoscopic diagnosis together with H. pylori antibody test. RESULTS: During the follow-up, 19 cases of gastric cancer were detected. By Kaplan-Meier analysis, the detection rates of cancer were significantly higher in the past or current H. pylori infection groups than in the never-infected group with all 3 methods. By the Cox proportional hazards model, the hazard ratio for cancer detection was highest in evaluation with the combined endoscopic diagnosis and the antibody test (method 3; hazard ratio 22.6, 95% confidence interval 2.99-171) among the three methods (the endoscopic diagnosis (method 1); 11.3, 2.58-49.8, and the ABC method (method 2); 7.52, 2.49-22.7). CONCLUSIONS: Endoscopic evaluation of H. pylori status with the Kyoto classification of gastritis, especially combined with serum anti-Helicobacter pylori antibody testing, reliably risk-stratified subjects in a population-based gastric cancer screening program.

DOI： 10.1007/s00535-023-02010-w

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English  

DOI： 10.1007/s00535-023-01984-x

PubMed

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(一社)日本衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: We previously reported outcomes of endoscopic resection for duodenal tumors in a large cohort. This study investigated the frequency and characteristics of synchronous and metachronous lesions, and their association with colorectal advanced adenoma (CAA) and colorectal cancer (CRC). METHODS: Patients underwent duodenal endoscopic resection during January 2008 to December 2018. Background and characteristics, incidence of synchronous and metachronous lesions, and incidence of CAA and CRC were investigated. Patients without synchronous lesions were classified as the single group, and those with synchronous lesions as the synchronous group. Patients were also classified as the metachronous and non-metachronous groups. The characteristics among the groups were compared. RESULTS: We included 2658 patients with 2881 duodenal tumors: 2472 (93.0%) patients had single, 186 (7.0%) had synchronous, and 54 (2.0%) had metachronous lesions. The 5-year cumulative incidence of metachronous lesions was 4.1%. In total, 208 (7.8%) had CAA and 127 (4.8%) patients had CRC, and colonoscopy was performed in 936 (35.2%) patients. The incidence of CAA in the synchronous groups tended to be higher compared with that in the single groups (11.8% vs 7.5%, adjusted risk ratio 1.56), and the incidence of CRC in the metachronous groups tended to be higher compared with that in the non-metachronous groups (13.0% vs 4.6%, adjusted risk ratio 2.75), but there was no difference after adjusting for colonoscopy. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed the incidence of synchronous and metachronous duodenal lesions. There was no significant difference in incidence of CAA and CRC among each group, but further studies are warranted.

DOI： 10.1007/s00535-023-01964-1

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

Abstract

Background

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is highly prevalent in older women, and previous studies suggest the involvement of hormonal factors play a role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis. KOA causes musculoskeletal impairment, resulting in decreased physical activity, muscle mass, and strength, which leads to sarcopenia and further increases the burden on healthcare systems. Oestrogen replacement therapy (ERT) improves joint pain and muscle performance in early menopausal women. Muscle resistance exercise (MRE) is a non-pharmacological method that preserves the physical functions of patients with KOA. However, data on short-term oestrogen administration combined with MRE in postmenopausal women, especially in those aged &gt; 65 years, are limited. Therefore, this study presents a protocol of a trial aimed to examine the synergistic effect of ERT and MRE on lower-limb physical performance in older women with KOA.

Methods

We will conduct a double-blinded, randomised placebo-controlled trial in 80 Japanese women aged &gt; 65 years living independently with knee pain. The participants will be randomly categorised into two groups: (1) 12-week MRE programme with transdermal oestrogen gel containing 0.54 mg oestradiol per push and (2) 12-week MRE programme with placebo gel. The primary outcome measured using the 30-s chair stand test, and secondary outcomes (body composition, lower-limb muscle strength, physical performance, self-reported measure of knee pain, and quality of life) will be measured at baseline, 3 months, and 12 months, and these outcomes will be analysed based on the intention-to-treat.

Discussion

The EPOK trial is the first study to focus on the efficacy of ERT on MRE among women aged &gt; 65 years with KOA. This trial will provide an effective MRE to prevent KOA-induced lower-limb muscle weakness, confirming the benefit of short-term oestrogen administration.

Trial registration

Japan Registry of Clinical Trials: jRCTs061210062. Registered 17th December 2021, https://jrct.niph.go.jp/en-latest-detail/jRCTs061210062.

DOI： 10.1186/s12877-023-03828-y

researchmap

Other Link： https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12877-023-03828-y/fulltext.html

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(一社)日本疫学会  

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: Some COVID-19 patients develop life-threatening disease accompanied by severe pneumonitis. Teprenone induces expression of heat-shock proteins (HSPs) that protect against interstitial pneumonia in preclinical models. We explored whether teprenone prevented worsening of COVID-19 infections. METHODS: This open-label, randomized, pilot phase 2 clinical trial was conducted at five institutions in Japan. We randomized patients hospitalized for COVID-19 with fever to teprenone or no-teprenone groups in a 1:1 ratio. We stratified patients by sex, age < and ≥ 70 years and the existence (or not) of complications (hypertension, diabetes, ischemic heart disease, chronic pulmonary disease and active cancer). No limitation was imposed on other COVID-19 treatments. The primary endpoint was the intubation rate. RESULTS: One hundred patients were included, 51 in the teprenone and 49 in the no- teprenone groups. The intubation rate did not differ significantly between the two groups: 9.8% (5/51) vs. 2.0% (1/49) (sub-hazard ratio [SHR] 4.99, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.59-42.1; p = 0.140). The rates of intra-hospital mortality and intensive care unit (ICU) admission did not differ significantly between the two groups: intra-hospital mortality 3.9% (2/51) vs. 4.1% (2/49) (hazard ratio [HR] 0.78, 95%CI: 0.11-5.62; p = 0.809); ICU admission 11.8% (6/51) vs. 6.1% (3/49) (SHR 1.99, 95%CI: 0.51-7.80; p = 0.325). CONCLUSION: Teprenone afforded no clinical benefit. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Japan Registry of Clinical Trials jRCTs061200002 (registered on 20/May/2020).

DOI： 10.1371/journal.pone.0287501

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: In aging societies, there is an increasing focus on the concept of frailty. However, there is no consistent means to assess this concept. We assessed frailty using the Kihon Checklist (KCL), which is widely used in Japan, and examined the association between frailty and all-cause and cause-specific mortality in Japan, the most aged society in the world. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study, and we analyzed 43,312 participants aged ≥ 65 years who were enrolled in basic health checkups in Okayama City, Japan. We defined the frailty status of the participants using the KCL. To assess the association of frailty status with all-cause and cause-specific mortality, we used cause-specific Cox proportional hazard models to estimate hazard ratios (HRs), adjusting for individual potential confounders. Mean follow-up time was 9.3 years. RESULTS: The fully adjusted HR for all-cause mortality was 1.34 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.27-1.41) for the prefrail group and 2.22 (95% CI: 2.11-2.33) for the frail group. A similar pattern was observed for cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and cancer mortality. Younger people (65-74 years) and women tended to have higher effect estimates than older people (≥ 75 years) and men. CONCLUSION: Prefrailty and frailty can increase the risk of both all-cause and cause-specific mortality. Our study suggests that to support frail patients, it could be effective to focus on the prevention and management of cardiovascular and respiratory disease, and that the KCL may be useful as a method of screening for frailty.

DOI： 10.1016/j.archger.2022.104906

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English  

DOI： 10.1007/s11604-022-01337-3

PubMed

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：岡山医学会  

2020年2月1日から2022年3月31日までに岡山市保健所にCOVID-19の発生届があった患者31037名を対象とし、流行期別に第3波～第6波に分け、症状、重症度、死亡割合などについて分析した。結果、症状のうち発熱の割合は各流行期とも約55%前後であった。デルタ株が流行した第5波では、それまでの流行期に比べて発熱や全身倦怠感、関節・筋肉痛、頭痛などの症状が強く、下痢などの消化器症状が比較的多くみられた。オミクロン株が流行した第6波では咽頭痛が50%と多かった。嗅覚・味覚障害は第3波では約7%で、その後は1～3%と低下傾向にあった。各流行期における中等症II以上の割合を年齢層別にみると、第4波までは60～70代で30%以上、80代以上で40%以上と高かったが、その後は低下傾向にあった。60～70代の死亡割合は第3波が最も高く2.1%で、その後は低下傾向にあった。80代以上の死亡割合は、第3・4波に12%前後と高く、第5波に2.3%と低下し、第6波に4.2%とやや上昇していた。

researchmap

Other Link： https://search.jamas.or.jp/default/link?pub_year=2022&ichushi_jid=J00175&link_issn=&doc_id=20221208190003&doc_link_id=10.4044%2Fjoma.134.160&url=https%3A%2F%2Fdoi.org%2F10.4044%2Fjoma.134.160&type=J-STAGE&icon=https%3A%2F%2Fjk04.jamas.or.jp%2Ficon%2F00007_2.gif

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Mary Ann Liebert Inc  

DOI： 10.1089/jicm.2022.0631

researchmap

Other Link： https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/pdf/10.1089/jicm.2022.0631

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

INTRODUCTION: Bilateral endoscopic drainage with self-expanding metallic stent (SEMS) can be used to manage hilar malignant biliary obstruction (HMBO) more effectively in comparison to unilateral drainage. An increased drainage area is predicted to prolong stent patency and patient survival. However, few reports have described the utility of trisegmental drainage and the benefits of using trisegmental drainage remain unknown. Thus, we launched a randomized clinical trial (RCT) to compare the clinical outcomes between bilateral and trisegmental drainage using SEMSs in patients with high-grade HMBO. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This study was conducted as a multicenter randomized control trial (RCT) in 8 high-volume medical centers in Japan, and will prove the non-inferiority of bilateral drainage to trisegmental drainage. Patients with unresectable HMBO with Bismuth type IIIa or IV who pass the inclusion and exclusion criteria will be randomized to receive bilateral or trisegmental drainage at a 1:1 ratio. At each center, the on-site study investigators will obtain informed consent from the candidates, and will use an electronic data capture system (REDCap) to input necessary information, and register candidates with the registration secretariat. The primary endpoint is the rate of non-recurrent biliary obstruction (RBO) at 180 days after SEMSs placement. A -10% non-inferiority margin is assumed in the statistical analysis of the primary endpoint. Secondary endpoints include the rate of technical and clinical success, time to recurrent biliary obstruction (TRBO), causes of RBO, procedure-related adverse events (AEs), procedure time, TRBO with or without endoscopic sphincterotomy, overall survival, and the technical and clinical success rates at reintervention. DISCUSSION: If the non-inferiority of bilateral drainage is demonstrated, it is predicted that the procedure time will be shortened and the medical cost will be reduced, which will be beneficial to the patient and the medical economy. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registered in Japan Registry of Clinical Trial-Registration (trial number. jRCTs062220038). This version number 1. Protocol dated Jun 23, 2022.

DOI： 10.1097/MD.0000000000030857

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Wiley  

DOI： 10.1111/apa.16551

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Elsevier BV  

DOI： 10.1016/j.jiac.2022.09.012

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.18926/AMO/63893

Scopus

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to retrospectively determine the incidence of early enlarging cavitation after percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of lung tumor and identify risk factors associated with their occurrence. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 245 patients (140 men, 105 women; mean age, 62.7 ± 11.8 [SD] years; age range: 31-87 years) with 605 lung tumors who were treated using 401 RFA sessions from April 2010 to March 2020 were included. Of which, 31 patients with 38 early enlarging cavitation and control group (151 patients with 228 tumors) were analyzed. Early enlarging cavitation was defined as cavities with an enlarged size (>3 cm) occurring on ablated lesions within seven days after RFA. Incidence of cavitation, risk and post-procedural factors of occurrence, major adverse events (AEs) that occurred in RFA sessions with cavitation, and course of cavitation were evaluated. AEs were classified using the CIRSE classification system for complications. RESULTS: Thirty-eight cavities (6.3%, 38/605 tumors) in 31 patients occurred in an average of 3.1 ± 1.7 days (range, 1-7 days) after 32 RFA sessions. Distance from pleura ≥ 20 mm, contact with vessel ≥ 3 mm, multitined expandable electrode ≥ 3 cm, and bronchus ≥ 2 mm encompassed in the ablation zone were independent risk factors of occurrence. Fever ≥ 38.5 °C, white blood cell count ≥ 10,000/μl one day after RFA, and steroid therapy were independent post-procedural factors of occurrence. Twenty-four Grade 3 and two Grade 6 AEs occurred. Twenty-nine cavities disappeared within a mean duration of 111.9 ± 64.9 (SD) days (range: 44-274 days) and four remained with a mean follow-up of 279.2 ± 174 (SD) days; five patients were lost to follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Early enlarging cavitation occurs in 6.3% of lung tumors treated with RFA and are associated with 26 major AEs in 32 sessions. Aforementioned procedural factors and post-procedural inflammation were significant risk factors of occurrence.

DOI： 10.1016/j.diii.2022.05.004

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

PURPOSE: To retrospectively evaluate and correlate the contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) and non-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) during the early period following renal cryoablation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Both dynamic CECT and non-enhanced MRI were performed within 4 days following cryoablation in 34 renal tumors in 33 patients. The renal volumes of the unenhanced regions on dynamic CECT (nephrogenic phase, 4 mm thickness) and the regions with signal intensity changes on non-enhanced MRI (fat-suppressed T2-weighted image, 4 mm thickness) were evaluated. Fusion images of the axial, coronal, and sagittal sections of CECT and MRI images were created from the maximum cross-section of the renal tumor, and the match score of each image was visually evaluated on a 5-point scale. RESULTS: The mean renal volume of the unenhanced regions on CECT and those with signal intensity changes on non-enhanced MRI following cryoablation were 29.5 ± 19.9 cm3 (range, 4.3-97.4 cm3) and 30.7 ± 19.8 cm3 (range, 6.7-94.0 cm3), respectively; the difference between them was -1.17 cm3 (95% confidence interval [CI] -2.74, 0.40, P = 0.139). The Pearson's product-moment correlation coefficient (r = 0.975; 95% CI, 0.951, 0.988; P < 0.0001) showed a strong correlation between the volumes. The average match score between CECT and non-enhanced MRI was as high as 4.5 ± 0.5 points (radiologist 1, 4.3 ± 0.5; radiologist 2, 4.7 ± 0.5). Local tumor control rate was 94.1% (32/34 tumors) and recurrence-free survival rate was 82.0% (95% CI: 64.2%, 91.5%) at 5 years. CONCLUSIONS: The region with signal intensity changes on non-enhanced MRI was strongly correlated with the unenhanced region on CECT during the early period following renal cryoablation.

DOI： 10.1007/s11604-022-01285-y

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

Background and study aims  Small colorectal polyps are removed by various methods, including cold snare polypectomy (CSP), hot snare polypectomy (HSP), and underwater endoscopic mucosal resection (UEMR), but the indications for using these methods are unclear. We retrospectively assessed the efficacy of CSP, HSP, and UEMR for small polyps, focusing on the depth of the resected specimens. Patients and methods  Outpatients with non-pedunculated small polyps (endoscopically diagnosed as 6 to 9 mm), resected by two endoscopists between July 2019 and September 2020, were enrolled. We histologically evaluated the specimens resected via CSP, HSP, and UEMR. The main outcome was the containment rate of the muscularis mucosa (MM) and submucosa (SM) tissues. Results  Forty polyps resected via CSP (n = 14), HSP (n = 12), or UEMR (n = 14) were enrolled after excluding 13 polyps with resection depths that were difficult to determine. The rates of specimens containing MM and SM tissue differed significantly (57 % and 29 % for CSP, 92 % and 83 % for HSP, and 100 % and 100 % for UEMR, respectively ( P  = 0.005 for MM and P  < 0.001 for SM tissue). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed UEMR was an independent factor relating to the containment of SM tissue. The thickness of SM tissue by CSP, HSP, and UEMR were 52 μm, 623 μm, and 1119 μm, respectively ( P  < 0.001). The thickness by CSP was significantly less than those by HSP and UEMR ( P  < 0.001, Bonferroni correction). Conclusions  UEMR could be the best method to contain SM tissue without injection. Further studies are needed to evaluate the indication of UEMR for small polyps.

DOI： 10.1055/a-1785-8616

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1016/j.cgh.2021.06.043

Scopus

PubMed

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：Okayama Medical Association  

DOI： 10.4044/joma.134.35

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Japan Epidemiological Association  

DOI： 10.2188/jea.je20210487

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：MDPI AG  

Previous studies have not assessed the causal effect of the Olympic Games on the spread of pandemics. Using the synthetic control method and the national public city data in Japan recorded from February to September 2021, we estimated the causal effects of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases. The difference between the number of COVID-19 cases in Tokyo and a counterfactual “synthetic Tokyo” (created using synthetic control method) after the opening of the Tokyo 2020 Games (23 July 2021) widened gradually and then considerably over time. It was predicted that the Tokyo 2020 Games increased the number of COVID-19 cases in Tokyo by approximately 469.4 per 100,000 population from the opening of the event to 30 September. However, sensitivity analysis of the ratio of the pre- and post-game root mean square prediction errors using regression weights did not suggest robustness. Our results showed that the Tokyo 2020 Games probably increased the number of COVID-19 cases even under preventive regulations; however, the extent of this increase was difficult to estimate clearly due to an overlap with the fifth wave associated with the Delta variant.

DOI： 10.3390/jpm12020209

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

To evaluate the volume and heat-sink effects of microwave ablation (MWA) in the ablation zone of the normal swine lung. MWA at 100 W was performed for 1, 2, and 3 min in 7, 5, and 5 lung zones, respectively. We assessed the histopathology in the ablation zones and other outcome measures: namely, length of the longest long and short axes, sphericity, ellipsoid area, and ellipsoid volume. The mean long- and short-axis diameters were 22.0 and 14.1 mm in the 1-min ablation zone, 27.6 and 20.2 mm in the 2-min ablation zone; and 29.2 and 21.2 mm in the 3-min ablation zone, respectively. All measures, except sphericity, were significantly less with 1-min ablation than with either 2- or 3-min ablation. There were no significant differences between the 2- and 3-min ablation zones, but all measures except sphericity were larger with 3-min ablation. Although there were no blood vessels that resulted in a heat-sink effect within the ablation zones, the presence of bronchi nearby in 5 lung ablation zones resulted in reduced ablation size. In high-power, short-duration MWA, the lung ablation volume was affected by ablation time. Some ablations showed that a heat-sink effect by a neighboring bronchus might occur.

DOI： 10.18926/AMO/63212

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：National Center for Global Health and Medicine (JST)  

DOI： 10.35772/ghm.2021.01125

researchmap

DOI： 10.18999/nagjms.84.4.746

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

To investigate the dynamics of body mass index (BMI) and height changes in childhood leading to obesity in adolescents. BMI Z-scores were calculated using the LMS (lambda-mu-sigma) method based on yearly height and weight information (age 1.5-15 years) from a nationwide Japanese birth cohort that started in 2001 (n = 26,711). We delineated the trajectories of BMI and height changes leading to obesity at age 15 years using mixed effect models. Children who became obese at the age of 15 years kept relatively high BMI z-scores through childhood for both genders, and had an increasing trend over time as opposed to the normal weight group, with an increasing slope during puberty. Early adiposity rebound was associated with overweight or obesity at the age of 15 years. Age at peak height velocity (APHV) occurred earlier in the obese/overweight group at age 15 years than in the normal weight group, and occurred later in the underweight group. Obese adolescents experienced early adiposity rebound timing and maintained a serial BMI z-score increase throughout childhood, with a greater slope at puberty. An earlier peak in height gain during puberty may have contributed to the observed patterns of BMI change.

DOI： 10.1038/s41598-021-02464-z

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

INTRODUCTION: The genomic characterization of primary nonampullary duodenal adenocarcinoma indicates a genetic resemblance to gastric and colorectal cancers. However, a correlation between the clinical and molecular characteristics of these cancers has not been established. This study aimed to elucidate the clinicopathological features of sporadic nonampullary duodenal epithelial tumors, including their molecular characteristics and prognostic factors. METHODS: One hundred forty-eight patients with sporadic nonampullary duodenal epithelial tumors were examined in this study. Patient sex, age, TNM stage, tumor location, treatment methods, histology, KRAS mutation, BRAF mutation, Fusobacterium nucleatum, mucin phenotype, and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) status were evaluated. KRAS and BRAF mutations, Fusobacterium nucleatum, mucin phenotype, and PD-L1 status were analyzed by direct sequencing, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and immunochemical staining. RESULTS: The median follow-up duration was 119.4 months. There were no deaths from duodenal adenoma (the primary disease). Kaplan-Meier analysis for duodenal adenocarcinoma showed a significant effect of TNM stage (P < 0.01). In univariate analysis of primary deaths from duodenal adenocarcinoma, TNM stage II or higher, undifferentiated, KRAS mutations, gastric phenotype, intestinal phenotype, and PD-L1 status were significant factors. In multivariate analysis, TNM stage II or higher (hazard ratio: 1.63 × 1010, 95% confidence interval: 18.66-6.69 × 1036) and KRAS mutation (hazard ratio: 3.49, confidence interval: 1.52-7.91) were significant factors. DISCUSSION: Only KRAS mutation was a significant prognostic factor in primary sporadic nonampullary duodenal adenocarcinoma in cases in which TNM stage was considered.

DOI： 10.14309/ctg.0000000000000424

PubMed

researchmap

Authorship：Lead author,　Corresponding author   Language：Japanese   Publisher：日本公衆衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: Lymph node metastasis (LNM) has been established as a critical risk factor for prognosis in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). The clinical implications of lymph-node dissection (LND) have been debated. This study aimed to clarify the prognostic impact of LND by multicenter-retrospective analysis. METHODS: A total of 310 ICC patients who had undergone curative resection between 2000 and 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. The prognostic impact of LND was estimated under an inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) approach using propensity scores. RESULTS: LND was performed for 224 patients (72%), with LNM pathologically confirmed in 90 patients (40%). Prognosis was poorer for patients with LNM (median survival, 16.9 months) than for those without (57.2 months; p<0.0001). One-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival rates (OS) were comparable among the LND+ (81.6%, 48.0%, and 37.5%, respectively) and the LND- groups (81.6%, 55.4%, and 44.6%, respectively). However, advanced tumor, as characterized by larger tumor, multinodular lesions, and serosal invasion, was significantly more frequent in the LND+ group than in the LND- group. After IPTW adjusting for imbalances, 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS were better in the LND+ group (83.5%, 52.2%, and 42.8%, respectively) than in the LND- group (71.9%, 32.4%, and 23.4%, respectively; p=0.046). LND thus showed significant prognostic impact (hazard ratio = 0.58, 95%CI = |0.39|-|0.84|, p=0.005). Especially in hilar ICC, LND showed significant prognostic impact. However, peripheral ICC displayed no therapeutic benefit from LND. CONCLUSIONS: LND could have significant role to improve oncologic outcomes. Therapeutic LND should be implemented on the basis of tumor location and tumor advancement.

DOI： 10.1002/jhbp.1038

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

We examined the association between early childhood exposure to maternal smoking and behavioral issues at 8 years old using a large nationwide population-based longitudinal survey in Japan that began in 2001. We included 46,737 children with information about maternal smoking taken from the 6-month survey. We used logistic regression analysis to examine the hypothesis. Early childhood exposure to maternal smoking increased the risk of behavioral problems related to attention and aggressive or disruptive behavior. The adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) were 1.37 (1.22-1.54) for inability to wait their turn during play and 1.40 (1.27-1.55) for destroying toys and, compared with children of nonsmoking mothers. Children of mothers who were heavy smokers were more likely to develop behavioral problems than others. Stopping early childhood exposure to maternal exposure can protect children's neurodevelopment.

DOI： 10.1080/19338244.2021.1972278

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1016/j.transci.2021.103147

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Wiley  

DOI： 10.1111/den.14079

researchmap

Other Link： https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full-xml/10.1111/den.14079

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

Purpose: To perform a systematic review on the association between alcohol consumption and risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) using a meta-analytical approach.Method: Systematic literature research was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Both categorical and dose-response meta-analysis was performed separately for early and late AMD. A fixed-effect model was used to calculate pooled effect estimates with 95% confidence interval (CI).Result: Seven studies were included in the analysis with 4,566 and 440 cases of early and late AMD, respectively. Compared to the nondrinkers or occasional drinkers, the pooled effect estimates for early AMD with moderate (1.19, 95% CI [1.03-1.37]) and heavy (1.24, [1.10-1.39]) alcohol consumption, but not light (0.95, [0.90-1.06]) alcohol consumption, were statistically significant. However, the pooled effect estimates for late AMD with light (1.03, [0.79-1.33]), moderate (1.13, [0.83-1.55]), and heavy (0.98, [0.63-1.53]) alcohol consumption were found to be insignificant. A linear dose-response relationship was established (P < .05) between alcohol consumption and risk of early AMD, and the pooled effect estimate for an increase in alcohol consumption of 10 g/day was 1.14 (1.08-1.21).Conclusion: Moderate and heavy alcohol consumption could increase the risk of early AMD, but not late AMD, with a linear dose-response relationship.

DOI： 10.1080/02713683.2021.1942070

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

PURPOSE: The Endoscopic Surgical Skill Quantification System for qualified surgeons (QSs) was introduced in Japan to improve surgical outcomes. This study reviewed the surgical outcomes after initial experience performing laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (LDG) and evaluated the improvement in surgical outcomes following accreditation as a QS. METHODS: Eighty-seven consecutive patients who underwent LDG for gastric cancer by a single surgeon were enrolled in this study. The cumulative sum method was used to analyze the learning curve for LDG. The surgical outcomes were evaluated according to the two phases of the learning curve (learning period vs. mastery period) and accreditation (non-QS period vs. QS period). RESULTS: The learning period for LDG was 48 cases. Accreditation was approved at the 67th case. The operation time and estimated blood loss were significantly reduced in the QS period compared to the non-QS period (230 vs. 270 min, p < 0.001; 20.5 vs. 59.8 ml, p = 0.024, respectively). Furthermore, the major complication rate was significantly lower in the QS period than in the non-QS period (0 vs. 10.6%, p = 0.044). CONCLUSIONS: Experience performing approximately 50 cases is required to reach proficiency in LDG. After receiving accreditation as a QS, the surgical outcomes, including the complication rate, were improved.

DOI： 10.1007/s00595-021-02309-2

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1038/s41598-021-90441-x

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Authorship：Lead author,　Last author,　Corresponding author   Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

Research suggests that the fundamental concepts of epidemiology cannot be sufficiently learned in traditional lectures, and interactive learning is necessary. However, few studies have investigated interactive epidemiology education in general, or peer instruction (PI) in particular. This study investigated the effect of PI. Study par-ticipants were fourth-year medical students. The attitude of participants in regard to PI learning was examined in a non-PI and a PI group. The Survey of Attitudes Toward Statistics (SATS) (containing six sub-categories) was conducted as a learning-attitudes index. The pre- and post-lecture scores were compared between the non-PI and PI groups using double robust (DR) estimation. The non-PI and PI groups consisted of 20 and 121 student participants, respectively. In DR estimation, affect exhibited the lowest SATS score changes, at -0.51 (95% confidence interval -0.78 to -0.24; p-value < 0.001), whereas effort exhibited the highest score changes of 0.01 (95% confidence interval -0.30 to 0.32; p-value = 0.952). The epidemiology lecture with PI did not increase the SATS scores. This might be due to issues related to the experimental design. Further research investigating the effects of interactive epidemiology education, it will be necessary to develop tools for assessing the learning of epidemiological concepts and to improve the research design.

DOI： 10.18926/AMO/62773

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: The propriety of cold forceps polypectomy (CFP) using jumbo biopsy forceps for diminutive polyps remains controversial. We conducted a prospective study to evaluate the complete CFP resection rate of 3-5-mm polyps using additional endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) specimens following CFP. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients with 3-5-mm protruded or flat elevated colorectal polyps diagnosed endoscopically as adenomas or serrated lesions were prospectively enrolled. CFP using jumbo biopsy forceps was used to remove the eligible polyps and repeated until the absence of residuals were confirmed via image-enhanced endoscopy or chromoendoscopy. After CFP, saline was injected at the defect, and the marginal specimen of the defect was resected using EMR to histologically evaluate the residue. The primary outcome was the complete CFP resection rate, which was defined as no residue at the EMR site. Other outcomes were the number of CFP bites and the complete resection rate by lesion size. RESULTS: Eighty patients with 120 polyps were enrolled. The mean polyp size was 4.1 ± 0.7 mm. The overall complete resection rate was 96.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 91.7-98.7), and the rates for 3-, 4- and 5-mm polyps were 100% (95% CI, 86.7-100), 96.0% (95% CI, 86.5-98.9) and 95.5% (95% CI, 85.1-98.8), respectively. The one-bite CFP rates were 92%, 60% and 31% for the 3-, 4- and 5-mm polyps, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The complete CFP resection rate for 3-5-mm polyps was acceptable, although the one-bite clearance rate decreased as the polyp size increased (UMIN000028841).

DOI： 10.1111/den.13895

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

PURPOSE: To retrospectively compare the outcomes of radiofrequency (RF) ablation, stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), and sublobar resection (SLR) in patients with stage I non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) at a single center. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Overall, 289 patients (38 RF ablation, 58 SBRT, and 193 SLR) were included. Kaplan-Meier curves were generated, multiple propensity score was estimated using a multinomial logistic regression model, and relationships between treatments and outcomes were assessed using a Cox proportional hazard model. Hazard ratios (HRs) for death from any cause and disease progression or death from any cause were examined by a crude model, an inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) model, and an IPTW model adjusted for missing variables. RESULTS: The 5-year overall and progression-free survival rates were 58.9% and 39.9%, respectively, for RF ablation; 42.0% and 34.9%, respectively, for SBRT; and 85.5% and 75.9%, respectively, for SLR. Significantly longer survival time and lower HR were observed for SLR than other treatments. However, after statistical adjustment, these relationships were not significant except for reduced HR of disease progression or death from any cause of SLR compared to RF ablation in the IPTW model. The median hospital stays for RF ablation, SBRT, and SLR were 6.5, 6, and 16 days, respectively. Adverse events of grade 3 or higher occurred only in 11 SLR cases. CONCLUSIONS: SLR achieved the longest survival. However, after statistical adjustment, there were no significant outcome differences among RF ablation, SBRT, and SLR, except for 1 model. RF ablation or SBRT may be alternative treatments for selected patients with early-stage NSCLC.

DOI： 10.1016/j.jvir.2019.11.035

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

PURPOSE: To assess specimen weight difference of six types of semi-automatic cutting biopsy needles. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We compared 18- and 20-gauge needles, one aspiration-type (STARCUT® aspiration-type, TSK Laboratory, Tochigi, Japan) and five non-aspiration-type (MISSION®, BARD, AZ; SuperCore™, Argon Medical Devices, TX; Temno Evolution®, Care Fusion, IL; FINE CORE®, Toray Medical, Tokyo, Japan; Quick-Core®, Cook, IN) needles. Four biopsies were performed with each needle with the longest throw length on an excised bovine liver. The biopsies were repeated with new needles, four times with four different livers. STARCUT® was used both with and without aspiration. RESULTS: Sixteen specimens were obtained with each needle. In needles of gauges, STARCUT® with aspiration provided the heaviest specimen and significantly heavier specimens were obtained with STARCUT® with aspiration (P < 0.05) than five non-aspiration-type needles. The specimen weight differed significantly (P < 0.001) among all 18- and 20-gauge needles. The specimen weights did not differ significantly between aspiration and non-aspiration biopsies with STARCUT® (6.32 vs. 5.97 mg with 18-gauge needle, P = 0.342; 1.95 vs. 1.92 mg with 20-gauge needle, P = 0.886). CONCLUSION: Although STARCUT® with aspiration provided the heaviest specimen, specimen weights were not significantly different between aspiration and non-aspiration biopsies. We assessed the specimen weight difference of six types of semi-automatic cutting biopsy needles. Significantly heavier specimens were obtained with STARCUT® with aspiration than the other needles. The specimen weight differed significantly among all 18- and 20-gauge needles but did not differ significantly between aspiration and non-aspiration biopsies with STARCUT®.

DOI： 10.1007/s11604-020-00935-3

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the accuracy of robotic CT-guided out-of-plane needle insertion in phantom and animal experiments. METHODS: A robotic system (Zerobot), developed at our institution, was used for needle insertion. In the phantom experiment, 12 robotic needle insertions into a phantom at various angles in the XY and YZ planes were performed, and the same insertions were manually performed freehand, as well as guided by a smartphone application (SmartPuncture). Angle errors were compared between the robotic and smartphone-guided manual insertions using Student's t test. In the animal experiment, 6 robotic out-of-plane needle insertions toward targets of 1.0 mm in diameter placed in the kidneys and hip muscles of swine were performed, each with and without adjustment of needle orientation based on reconstructed CT images during insertion. Distance accuracy was calculated as the distance between the needle tip and the target center. RESULTS: In the phantom experiment, the mean angle errors of the robotic, freehand manual, and smartphone-guided manual insertions were 0.4°, 7.0°, and 3.7° in the XY plane and 0.6°, 6.3°, and 0.6° in the YZ plane, respectively. Robotic insertions in the XY plane were significantly (p < 0.001) more accurate than smartphone-guided insertions. In the animal experiment, the overall mean distance accuracy of robotic insertions with and without adjustment of needle orientation was 2.5 mm and 5.0 mm, respectively. CONCLUSION: Robotic CT-guided out-of-plane needle insertions were more accurate than smartphone-guided manual insertions in the phantom and were also accurate in the in vivo procedure, particularly with adjustment during insertion. KEY POINTS: • Out-of-plane needle insertions performed using our robot were more accurate than smartphone-guided manual insertions in the phantom experiment and were also accurate in the in vivo procedure. • In the phantom experiment, the mean angle errors of the robotic and smartphone-guided manual out-of-plane needle insertions were 0.4° and 3.7° in the XY plane (p < 0.001) and 0.6° and 0.6° in the YZ plane (p = 0.65), respectively. • In the animal experiment, the overall mean distance accuracies of the robotic out-of-plane needle insertions with and without adjustments of needle orientation during insertion were 2.5 mm and 5.0 mm, respectively.

DOI： 10.1007/s00330-019-06477-1

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English  

In the original publication of the article, the figure 3 was published with errors. The corrected figure 3 should appear as in this correction.

DOI： 10.1007/s00535-019-01654-x

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Eradication of Helicobacter pylori reduces the risk of gastric cancer. In this study, we investigated the risk beyond 10 years after eradication of H. pylori. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 2737 patients who had yearly endoscopic follow-up after cure of H. pylori infection. For comparison of gastric cancer risk in the second decade of follow-up with that in the first decade, we calculated standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) by dividing the number of observed cases of gastric cancer in the second decade of follow-up by that of expected cases which was estimated using the incidence rate ratio of age in the first decade. RESULTS: During the follow-up for as long as 21.4 years (mean 7.1 years), gastric cancer developed in 68 patients (0.35% per year). The SIRs for diffuse-type gastric cancer was infinity (0 expected case and 4 observed cases) in patients with mild gastric mucosal atrophy and 10.9 (95% confidence interval 4.53-26.1) with moderate atrophy, whereas no significant increase of SIRs was observed in intestinal-type cancer regardless of the grade of baseline gastric atrophy or in diffuse-type cancer in patients with severe atrophy even though who had the highest risk. CONCLUSIONS: The longer the follow-up, the greater the risk of developing diffuse-type gastric cancer becomes in patients with mild-to-moderate gastric atrophy at baseline. Endoscopic surveillance should be continued beyond 10 years after cure of H. pylori irrespective of the severity of gastric atrophy.

DOI： 10.1007/s00535-019-01639-w

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between regular physical activity and the risk of incident dementia in older Japanese adults. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study performed in Okayama City, Japan. Overall, 51 477 older Japanese adults were followed from 2008 to 2014. A health checkup questionnaire was used to assess regular physical activity. The Dementia Scale of long-term care insurance was used as a measure of incident dementia. Cox proportional hazard models were used to calculate adjusted hazard ratios, with their 95% confidence intervals, for the incidence of dementia across the categories of physical activity. RESULTS: During a 7-year follow-up, 13 816 subjects were considered as having incident dementia. Compared with participants who performed physical activity less than or equal to one time per week, the multivariate adjusted hazard ratio values (95% confidence intervals) for participants who performed physical activity greater than or equal to two times per week but not every day and those who performed physical activity every day were 0.79 (0.75-0.84) and 0.94 (0.89-0.98), respectively. The interaction of physical activity and sex was statistically significant (P < .01). In subgroup analysis, the multivariate-adjusted hazard ratio values (95% confidence intervals) remained low, at 0.76 (0.70-0.84) in males and 0.81 (0.76-0.87) in females who performed physical activity greater than or equal to two times per week but not every day; they were 0.82 (0.76-0.89) in males and 1.01 (0.95-1.07) in females who performed physical activity every day. CONCLUSIONS: Regular physical activity could reduce the risk of incident dementia in older Japanese adults, except females who performed physical activity every day.

DOI： 10.1002/gps.5135

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

Osteoporosis increases the risk of bone fractures. It is diagnosed based on an individual's bone mineral density (BMD) or a fracture without trauma. BMD is usually measured by the dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) method. Here we investigated factors for the earliest possible prediction of decreased BMD by examining the relationships between patients' BMD values and changes in the patients' physical and laboratory values. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 149 patients who visited our department in 2014-2015 for a variety of reasons and underwent an area BMD examination by DXA. We analyzed the relationships between decreasing BMD and the patients' gender, age, body mass index (BMI), medical background, hemoglobin, electrolytes, and thyroid function. Thirty-nine of the patients were diagnosed with osteoporosis based on their T-scores. An adjusted analysis showed that female gender, aging, and increased serum calcium level were significantly related to decreasing femoral BMD, whereas high BMI was associated with an increase in femoral BMD. Collectively the results indicate that for the early detection of low BMD, it is important for general-practice physicians to consider conducting a BMD checkup when treating female and elderly patients with a low BMI and/or elevated serum calcium level.

DOI： 10.18926/AMO/57370

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

AIM: To evaluate the association between the amount and frequency of alcohol consumption and incident dementia in older Japanese adults using large sample size data over a long follow-up period. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study carried out in Japan. A total of 53 311 older adults were followed from 2008 to 2014. A health checkup questionnaire was used to assess the amount and frequency of alcohol consumption. The Dementia Scale of long-term care insurance was used as a measure of incident dementia. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate adjusted hazard ratios, with their 95% confidence intervals, for the incidence of dementia across the categories of alcohol consumption by sex. RESULTS: During a 7-year follow-up period, 14 479 participants were regarded as having incident dementia. Compared with non-drinkers, the multivariate adjusted hazard ratios for participants with alcohol consumption ≤2 units per day, occasionally (0.88, 95% CI 0.81-0.96 in men and 0.84, 95% 0.79-0.90 in women) and daily (0.79, 95% 0.73-0.85 in men and 0.87, 95% 0.78-0.97 in women) were statistically significant, and the difference between occasional and daily consumption was only statistically significant in men; however, for participants with alcohol consumption >2 units per day, occasionally (0.91, 95% 0.71-1.16 in men and 1.09, 95% 0.72-1.67 in women) and daily (0.89, 95% 0.81-1.00 in men and 1.16, 95% 0.84-1.81 in women) were not significant. CONCLUSIONS: Alcohol consumption of ≤2 units per day, occasionally or daily, could reduce the risk of incident dementia, with greater benefit for men with such daily consumption. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 740-746.

DOI： 10.1111/ggi.13694

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

We investigated the feasibility of simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) using elective nodal irradiation (ENI) for middle or lower esophageal cancer and compared it with three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT). The study included 15 patients. The prescribed doses included a standard dose (50.4 Gy) and a high dose (60 Gy) for the planning target volume (PTV) of the involved lesions. The objective of the whole lung volume receiving ≥ 20 Gy (V20Gy) was < 30%, and the mean lung dose (MLD) was < 20 Gy. The volumes of the lung receiving 5 Gy (V5Gy) and the heart receiving 30-50 Gy (V30-50Gy) were kept as low as reasonably achievable. As a result, SIB-VMAT showed superior dose conformity for the PTV (p<0.001). Although the lung V5Gy was significantly increased (p<0.001), the V20Gy and MLD showed no significant increase. The heart V30-50Gy showed a > 20% reduction in the mean against 3D-CRTs. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of SIB-VMAT for the treatment of middle or lower esophageal cancer with ENI. Although attention should be paid to the low-dose area of the lungs, SIB-VMAT would be a promising treatment option with improved outcomes for esophageal cancer.

DOI： 10.18926/AMO/56868

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

Background: Body mass index (BMI) is a significant predictor of functional disability in older adults. However, when evaluated, the association between BMI and incident functional disability, considering behaviors only as covariates or not, may not be appropriate. The primary purpose of the study was to investigate the combined effects of BMI and unhealthy behaviors on the risk of incident functional disability. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study that took place in Okayama City, Japan. Data on BMI and unhealthy behaviors were obtained using the health check-up questionnaire. The certification of Long-Term Care Insurance was used to measure functional disability. Cox proportional hazard models were used; adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated for incidence of functional disability across categories of BMI and number of unhealthy behaviors. Results: The relationship between BMI and incident functional disability was U-shaped (HR = 1.18, 95% CI [1.11-1.25], among the underweight range; and 1.26 [1.19-1.34] among the obesity range), and its risk was significantly higher within the normal-to-overweight range of BMI values with co-occurring unhealthy behaviors (with normal weight range and one, 1.17 [1.01-1.21]; two, 1.29 [1.18-1.41]; and three or four unhealthy behaviors 1.38 [1.24-1.54]; as well as among overweight range and one, 1.16 [1.05-1.27]; two, 1.26 [1.15-1.38]; and three or four unhealthy behaviors, 1.47 [1.31-1.64]). In each BMI category, the risk of incident functional disability increased with increasing number of unhealthy behaviors (p < 0.05 for linear tread), with the highest risk (1.87 [1.58-2.20]) occurring in combination with at least three unhealthy behaviors with BMI ≥ 27.5, for both sexes (2.20 [1.64-2.92] in men and 1.66 [1.35-2.04] in women). Conclusion: It is necessary to consider the combined effects of BMI and behaviors on incident functional disability. Furthermore, interventions targeting multiple behaviors should be considered as such interventions may offer greater benefits than simple interventions.

DOI： 10.7717/peerj.8146

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

Although epidural analgesia (EDA) is considered standard postoperative analgesia for open gastrectomy, it has been unclear whether EDA has benefits in laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG) because postoperative pain after a laparoscopic procedure is significantly reduced. We are conducting a two-arm, single-center, prospective randomized non-inferiority trial to evaluate the postoperative pain relief of patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) compared to EDA. A total of 132 patients undergoing LG will be randomized to EDA and PCIA groups (n=64 each) for postoperative pain control. The primary endpoint is postoperative pain at 24 h after surgery. This study will clarify the optimal pain management after LG.

DOI： 10.18926/AMO/55671

PubMed

researchmap

Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Elsevier BV  

DOI： 10.1016/j.meddos.2017.11.007

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1148/radiol.2017162856

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Elsevier Masson SAS  

DOI： 10.1016/j.diii.2017.01.008

Scopus

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.18926/AMO/55206

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1016/j.jvir.2017.02.027

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1007/s10384-016-0492-7

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.18926/AMO/54823

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2016.05.011

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1007/s11604-016-0601-z

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1016/j.je.2016.09.003

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1186/s13049-016-0341-1

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.5301/jva.5000606

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1016/j.annepidem.2016.09.008

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1007/s00280-016-3091-x

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.18926/AMO/54512

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1007/s11604-016-0551-5

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1038/jhg.2015.153

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1016/j.jvir.2015.07.025

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1007/s12149-015-0999-x

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1007/s00270-013-0808-7

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English  

DOI： 10.1016/j.annepidem.2014.04.003

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English  

DOI： 10.1097/EDE.0000000000000050

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

BACKGROUND: The counterfactual approach provides a clear and coherent framework to think about a variety of important concepts related to causation. Meanwhile, directed acyclic graphs have been used as causal diagrams in epidemiologic research to visually summarize hypothetical relations among variables of interest, providing a clear understanding of underlying causal structures of bias and effect modification. In this study, the authors aim to further clarify the concepts of bias (confounding bias and selection bias) and effect modification in the counterfactual framework. METHODS: The authors show how theoretical data frequencies can be described by using unobservable response types both in observational studies and in randomized controlled trials. By using the descriptions of data frequencies, the authors show epidemiologic measures in terms of response types, demonstrating significant distinctions between association measures and effect measures. These descriptions also demonstrate sufficient conditions to estimate effect measures in observational studies. To illustrate the ideas, the authors show how directed acyclic graphs can be extended by integrating response types and observed variables. RESULTS: This study shows a hitherto unrecognized sufficient condition to estimate effect measures in observational studies by adjusting for confounding bias. The present findings would provide a further understanding of the assumption of conditional exchangeability, clarifying the link between the assumptions for making causal inferences in observational studies and the counterfactual approach. The extension of directed acyclic graphs using response types maintains the integrity of the original directed acyclic graphs, which allows one to understand the underlying causal structure discussed in this study. CONCLUSIONS: The present findings highlight that analytic adjustment for confounders in observational studies has consequences quite different from those of physical control in randomized controlled trials. In particular, the present findings would be of great use when demonstrating the inherent distinctions between observational studies and randomized controlled trials.

DOI： 10.1186/1471-2288-13-101

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.18926/AMO/49254

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1007/s00270-011-0221-z

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1016/j.jvir.2012.02.014

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.18926/AMO/46852

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1539/joh.L7154

Web of Science

PubMed

researchmap

Authorship：Lead author   Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

In order to know utilization, needs, and related factors for e-learning and its application to education and training in occupational safety and health (OSH) among enterprises in Japan, a questionnaire survey was conducted of enterprises randomly selected from those with 1,000 or more employees and those with 999 or less (500 for each). Data from 134 (56 and 78, respectively) enterprises were analyzed (response rate, 13%). Among total enterprises, 19% had introduced and 16% planned to introduce e-learning. However, only 7% of larger enterprises and less than 3% of smaller enterprises used e-learning for education and training in OSH. On the other hand, 80-90% of enterprises responded positively to considering the use of e-learning for education and training on various OSH topics for various users. Highly rated merits of e-learning were "can use whenever", "can use anywhere"; and its highly rated obstacles were "cost", "individual PC not available", "insufficient information on efficacy". However, the merit "can monitor training" was significantly associated with the use/plan of e-learning. "Good contents not available" was more frequent among enterprises which used/planned e-learning. The study indicated a greater need for e-learning based OSH education and training, despite a currently low rate of its use. Improvement of e-learning platforms and contents, reduction of cost, and improvement of e-learning infrastructure at work may be needed to facilitate the use of e-learning in OSH.

DOI： 10.1539/sangyoeisei.48.183

PubMed

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

J-GLOBAL

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(一社)日本内科学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：日本公衆衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(一社)日本小児アレルギー学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：日本小児アレルギー学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(一社)日本病院総合診療医学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(一社)日本病院総合診療医学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：日本公衆衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本整形外科学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：日本公衆衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：日本公衆衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本整形外科学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(一社)日本臨床薬理学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(一社)日本医療情報学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(NPO)日本脳神経血管内治療学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：日本公衆衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper, summary (international conference)  

Web of Science

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本医学放射線学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(株)保健文化社  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(株)保健文化社  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：日本公衆衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：日本公衆衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(一社)日本移植学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本医学放射線学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：日本公衆衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本産業衛生学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：公益社団法人 日本産業衛生学会  

CiNii Article

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：公益社団法人 日本産業衛生学会  

DOI： 10.1539/sangyoeisei.KJ00003804144

CiNii Article

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Publisher：(公社)日本生化学会  

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Presentation type：Public lecture, seminar, tutorial, course, or other speech  

File： 221114倫理講習_統計学的手法の選択.pdf

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Presentation type：Public lecture, seminar, tutorial, course, or other speech  

File： 221013形成外科学会ワンポイントレクチャー.pdf

researchmap

Language：Japanese   Presentation type：Oral presentation (invited, special)  

File： 221007顎口腔学会セミナー_サンプルサイズ【配付資料】.pdf

researchmap

Language：Japanese  

File： 医療圏データ分析・考察コンペ資料.zip

researchmap