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Sensitizers are used to prepare photosensitive materials for ink-printing and thermal-recording media. Typical sensitizers contain an aromatic ring and exhibit aryl hydrocarbon receptor-mediated activity. They can accumulate in aquatic biota, leading to the disruption of ecosystems. Effluent from paper recycling plants has been identified as a source of contamination, and the presence of sensitizers in toilet paper may represent a new source of contamination in aquatic environments. To examine possible sources of contamination by sensitizers, this study investigated the levels of sensitizers in recycled toilet paper. We also studied the prevalence of sensitizers in rivers receiving effluents from sewage treatment plants in Japan, from 2020 to 2022. We detected eight sensitizers and related compounds in both toilet paper and river water samples; their total concentrations ranged from 0.78 to 34 µg/g (mean: 12 µg/g) in toilet paper and 58–1167 µg/L (median: 77 µg/L) in water. In the water samples, sensitizers were partitioned between liquid and suspended solid phases, and in suspended solids, sensitizers accounted for an average of 42% of the total. Correlation analysis showed a high correlation between sensitizer composition in the water from a river receiving sewage treatment plant effluents and toilet paper. Since these compounds were also detected in the river water analyzed in this study, toilet paper should be considered a novel source of sensitizers contamination in sewage treatment systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the conception and execution of paper currency schemes in Tokugawa Japan (1603–1868). Paper currency was widely used as a form of local money in early modern Japan, but has received close to no attention in Anglophone scholarship even amid a recent upsurge in interest in the global history of money. From the perspective of monetary history, Tokugawa paper currency presents an intriguing puzzle. Even as paper currencies repeatedly collapsed in value, they remained in common use as an essential component of the early modern monetary system. Using the case of Sendai domain, a large fiefdom in northeastern Japan, the article argues that the monetary practices and expectations of ordinary subjects transformed paper money, created through partnerships between the samurai ruling class and powerful merchant financiers, from a tool meant to serve the interests of state finances into a low‐denomination currency convenient for everyday transactions, resulting in the bills' surprising longevity as a form of small change. Drawing on approaches that centre the role of non‐state and marginal actors in the making of money, it sheds new light on the political economy of late Tokugawa Japan and offers new insights into the global history of money. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional papermaking was a significant innovation that intrigued the information-sharing society in a wide range of the globe. The importance of finding the historical background hidden behind the historical traditional paper is critical to understanding societies in history. Advanced molecular biological research is applied to many forensic studies to identify the origin and criminal events. Yet, biological research refrained from the heritage science of traditional papers due to its damage to the samples. The current study explores the Pearson correlation between DNA in traditional paper and non-destructive measurement of characteristics of traditional paper. DNA concentration and purity were found to have a proportional relationship based on the CIEL*a*b* color system. The color of the traditional paper was assessed assessment shows green and yellow rather than red and blue. The DNA concentration demonstrated a positive linear correlation with the peaks of 992 cm−1, 1599 cm−1, and 1628 to 1638 cm−1 region, which were lignin-specific functional groups. The presence of lignin in traditional paper defines the colors green and yellow, which is related to the presence of a cell wall. The quantity of cell walls present is linked to DNA survival during the traditional papermaking process. Furthermore, the partial least square (PLS) regression model is established. The prediction model based on DNA, paper properties, and smoothing + the second derivative preprocessed attenuated total reflection-Fourier-transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectral data demonstrated valid purity predictions. The evaluation parameter of the cross-validated prediction model contains a low Root Mean Square Error of Cross-Validation (RMSECV) of 0.091 for DNA purity. The determination coefficient was close to 1. However, the further establishment of a validated DNA extraction methodology is required for the consistency of the prediction model for DNA concentration. The hierarchical clustering analysis demonstrated the agglomerative dendrogram on traditional paper samples. For the dendrogram, the Nasu paper mulberry (originating in northern Japan) was distinguished from another paper mulberry (originating in southwestern Japan) by clustering. By multivariate statistical analysis, the DNA presence and quality were predictable from the Japanese traditional papers. In addition, the clustering analysis provided the possible origin of paper mulberry materials for traditional papers. Based on the preliminary information, the need for DNA analysis on historical traditional paper can be determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates the relative effectiveness of online and paper-based formative assessment in the learning of English as a second language. For this study, 74 Japanese university second language (L2) students took online quizzes, while 71 were given paper-based quizzes to complete. The quiz content was drawn from learning material found in the class textbook. Both groups were assigned the exercises as homework. At the end of the 15-week study period, both groups were administered a summative assessment that also covered learning points from the textbook. After controlling for the learners' L2 proficiency through their TOEIC test scores, the performance of the two groups on the formative quiz was compared through correlation and regression analysis. While there was found to be a statistically significant relationship between the online formative assessment and summative exam scores, this was not the case for the paper-based homework. When compared through an analysis of covariance, there was found to be a significant interaction between group and homework on exam scores. The online group was more affected by their homework score than the pencil and paper group. The findings from this study have implications for teachers, learners and curriculum developers.

Several researchers have compared the efficacy of digital flashcards (DFs) versus paper flashcards (PFs) to improve L2 vocabulary and have concluded that using DFs is more effective (Azabdaftari & Mozaheb, 2012; Basoglu & Akdemir, 2010; Kiliçkaya & Krajka, 2010). However, these studies did not utilize vocabulary learning strategies (VLSs) as a way to support the vocabulary development of those using PFs. This is significant because DFs often offer a range of features to promote vocabulary development, whereas PFs are much more basic; thus, learners who study via paper materials are at a disadvantage compared with those who use DFs. Given the success that VLSs have had in fostering L2 vocabulary enhancement (e.g., Mizumoto & Takeuchi, 2009), their incorporation could have influenced the previous studies. Therefore, one of the primary aims of this study was to find if there were significant differences in receptive and productive L2 vocabulary improvements between students who used PFs in conjunction with 3 VLSs -- dropping, association, and oral rehearsal -- and those who used the DF tools Quizlet and Cram. Additionally, the researchers examined the learners' opinions to see if there was a preference for either study method. A total of 52 EFL students at two Japanese universities participated in the 12-week study. Pre- and post-tests were administered to measure the vocabulary gains in the PF group (n = 26) and the DF group (n = 26). Results from a paired t-test revealed that both groups made significant improvements in receptive and productive vocabulary. However, the difference between the gains was not significant, which contrasts with past comparison studies of DFs and PFs and highlights the importance of VLSs. A 10-item survey with closed and Likert-scale questions was also administered to determine the participants' opinions towards the study methods. Higher levels of agreement were found in the experimental group, indicating that the students viewed DFs more favorably than PFs.

The XY model of oil‐paper insulation connects the dielectric properties of oil, paper and oil‐paper system. Its equivalent circuit is the basis of the application of dielectric response technology in the state diagnosis of transformer oil‐paper insulation. To better apply the XY model to the study of the dielectric properties of oil‐paper insulation, the dielectric properties of the coaxial oil‐paper insulation system built in the laboratory, XY model and its equivalent circuits are compared. Then an improved circuit of XY model which can reflect the properties of the oil‐paper insulation more truly is proposed. The results show that there is no difference between the XY model and the coaxial model, and both can well characterize the oil‐paper insulation system. The two equivalent circuits of XY model, "Series to Parallel" circuit and "Parallel to Series" circuit, ignore the current tangential component and the electric field distortion in oil‐paper insulation, respectively, resulting in deviations from the XY model. By introducing a new branch C*XY, the improved circuit can reflect the tangential current and electric field distortion in oil‐paper insulation, which can be completely equivalent to XY model. In addition, there is a characteristic frequency point in the oil‐paper insulation system, where the dielectric loss factor tan δ of oil, paper and oil‐paper system are the same. There is no difference between the XY model and its two equivalent circuits at this point. The characteristic frequency is determined by the dielectric properties of oil and paper, and not affected by the insulation structure. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The frequency‐domain dielectric spectroscopy (FDS) of humid insulating paper has been measured at different temperatures. The data show three independent dielectric processes: electrode polarization, hopping conductivity and interfacial polarization. The dielectric properties of humid insulating paper are composed of hopping conductivity and interfacial polarization, and its equivalent dielectric model can be represented by a Havriliak‐Negami (HN) relaxation branch parallel hopping conductivity. At high temperatures and low frequencies, the measured dielectric spectroscopy bends downward, which is caused by the electrode polarization. In this case, the equivalent dielectric model is composed of the body impedance of insulating paper and the electrode polarization in series. According to the equivalent dielectric model, the components of electrode polarization, hopping conductivity, and interface polarization can be separated, thereby eliminating the parasitic effect of electrode polarization on the dielectric properties of insulating paper. Both of hopping conductivity and interface polarization of insulating paper move toward high‐frequency direction with temperature increasing. For humid insulating paper with a moisture content of 5.9%, the activation energies of hopping conductivity and interface polarization are 1.18 and 0.99 eV, respectively. This difference in activation energies results in the inability of the spectrums of insulating paper to overlap with each other at different temperatures. Based on the insulating paper without oil immersion, the results obtained in this article are not affected by oil or oil‐immersion operations. This provides a reference for exploring the dielectric properties and physical mechanisms of oil‐paper composite insulation materials widely used in high‐voltage equipment. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessment of the aging of oil‐paper insulation is analyzed in this article, based on an improved fractional Poynting‐Thomson model, which includes dc and hopping conductivity (P‐T model2). Based on samples of oil paper produced in laboratories with different thermal aging times, it has been found that the proposed improved model provides a better fit and a higher index of coincidence concerning the measured values than the traditional P‐T model and the model that only incorporates the effect of dc conductivity (P‐T model1). Nevertheless, comparing the proposed improved P‐T model with the traditional Cole–Cole (C‐C), Davidson–Cole (D‐C), and Havriliak–Negami (H‐N) models, the improved P‐T model2 also demonstrated a superior fit for the measured value and a higher coincidence index than another model. In addition, there was an excellent exponential relationship between the quantities εa, εb and τ of the improved model and the furfural content of the samples. Consequently, these characteristic quantities could be utilized to estimate the furfural content in the oil‐paper insulation and evaluate the insulation's condition. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The properties of handmade paper used for mounting and conservation of paintings and calligraphy on paper is crucial to the quality and lifespan of such objects. Mounting papers from China, Korea, and Japan vary greatly in performance due to different papermaking methods and fibre materials. In this study, eight types of handmade paper widely used in China, Korea, and Japan were selected for comprehensive comparative analysis investigating their pH as well as optical, mechanical, and ageing properties. The study showed that traditional hanji, improved hanji, and thin Mino paper made of pure kozo fibres performed best in terms of mechanical properties. Among the additives mixed with kozo fibres, clam shell powder was identified as a substance that improves pH and stability of optical properties. Xuan paper Mianliao was found to be a suitable material for mounting hand scrolls and hanging scrolls due to its softness and ageing properties. Traditional hanji, improved hanji, and thin Mino paper are less flexible than xuan paper Mianliao and are considered more suitable for uses other than for mounting scrolls. This study will provide a reference for improving the quality of handmade paper and a theoretical basis for the selection of such papers for the conservation of paintings and calligraphy on paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The partial discharge in the converter transformer will cause the carbonization of the insulating paper. The high concentration of free carbon particles generated from the insulating paper during the operation of the converter transformer will cause partial discharge, which will aggravate the insulation performance deterioration. For the bi‐directional interaction of carbon particles and partial discharge, the mechanism of insulating paper carbonization caused by partial discharge and the effect of carbon particles on the dielectric strength of oil paper are studied. In this paper, we construct a simulation system of amorphous cellulose to study the carbonization mechanism of insulating paper from the microscopic level. Furthermore, we build a DC voltage experimental platform to carry out partial discharge damage tests of oil‐paper insulation models and to measure the changes in the breakdown voltage with different carbon particle concentrations and diameters. The results show that partial discharge speeds up the cleavage rate of cellulose, generates low molecular hydrocarbon gas and water molecules, and the carbon atoms rearrange into PAH‐like molecules with aliphatic side chains. The surface of the insulating paper will carbonize, then form free carbon particles after peeling off. Afterward, the carbon particles in insulating oil accumulate in the high electric field area and attach to the insulating paper, which will cause electric field distortion and reduce the dielectric strength of oil‐paper insulation. With the increase of carbon particle concentration and diameter, the breakdown voltage of oil‐paper insulation decreases gradually. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Australian Science Teachers Association offers an innovative international professional development program for science teachers called the Science Teachers Exchange -- Japan. The program offers Australian and Japanese teachers an opportunity to travel to the corresponding country, allowing the teachers to grow in their knowledge of the culture and teaching practices of that country and potentially develop national and international networks. The article herein was written by Takeshi Tsuji, an elementary teacher from Tokyo, who participated in the 2017 Exchange program to Australia. As part of this program, Tsuji visited Mudgeeraba Creek State School on the Gold Coast, where he observed a fifth grade STEM lesson taught by STEM science teacher Megan Hayes, and later taught a lesson to the same class. On entering Hayes' classroom, Tsuji immediately noticed a large poster with the word 'FAIL' on it; an acronym standing for 'First Attempt In Learning'. It translates to "failure = first step in learning," meaning that learning starts from failure. This [unedited] translation of the article -- taken from a Japanese equivalent to "Teaching Science" -- takes on the theme of how students face failure and how teachers can deepen classroom learning with this acronym in mind.

When toilet paper disappeared from store shelves across Japan in November 1973, the housewives who searched their neighborhood markets and stood in long lines for the scarce packs were described as unwitting perpetrators of a "toilet paper panic." The word "panic" evoked well-established notions of a social frenzy, irrational and overwrought. This article overturns a conception of panic laden with condescension and adopts, instead, a more empathetic approach to examining why a run on toilet paper and other daily necessities occurred in late 1973, and why it resonated so deeply across Japan as a "panic." In the broader context of the early 1970s, the toilet paper scare and its characterization as a "panic" can be understood as responses to sweeping and multifaceted economic challenges that destabilized daily life and threatened to upend middle-class lifestyles. After more than fifteen years of high economic growth, that sense of middle-class comfort and security was shaken by shortages and inflation as well as mounting evidence of government ineptitude and corporate profiteering. Buffeted by insecurity and uncertainty, Japanese "middle-classness" as both an experience and an ideal had never seemed as vulnerable as it did in the early 1970s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address the issue of marine pollution caused by microplastics, the Japanese government started charging for plastic shopping bags in July 2020 and the Plastic Resource Recycling Promotion Law (PRRPL) was passed in April 2022, thereby discouraging plastic use in Japan. However, even before these laws and regulations were established, companies and offices had begun starting to make voluntary efforts to reduce plastic use. Among these efforts, this study focused on the shift from plastic to paper materials and company efforts to lower plastic use. This study aimed to investigate the impact of the social perception of marine plastic pollution since 2018 on companies' adoption of paper materials for containers and packaging. The companies reviewed may have used up to 236,699 tons of paper materials instead of plastic since 2018. This reduction in plastic consumption is expected to decrease emissions by up to 625,424 tons of carbon dioxide (tCO2) annually, as well as external costs by up to 180.7 million yen. Hence, the shift from plastic to paper materials through firms' voluntary efforts since 2018 has helped to reduce plastic use and ameliorate the effects of global warming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice-paper plant, Tetrapanax papyrifer is a woody plant native to Taiwan and widely distributed in western Japan. Due to its low commercial value, little is known about its interactions with microorganisms. Here, we isolated Neofusicoccum parvum, a known causal agent of grape stem rot and mango stem-end rot, from leaf blight on T. papyrifer. Compared to mango isolate, N. parvum from rice-paper plant showed comparable virulence on grape stem and mango fruit. N. parvum strains exhibited pathogenicity on a variety of common weeds, which may act as disease reservoirs and boost N. parvum prevalence in commercially grown mango and grape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facebook has best leveraged the rapid technological and societal changes over the past decade to grow into the world's largest social-networking site (SNS). However, research of Facebook has lagged behind other Web 2.0 technologies, particularly in regards to investigating its efficacy versus a control group to improve L2 writing. This study, which involved 30 Japanese university English as a foreign language (EFL) students, aims to fill this gap in the literature by examining three areas of L2 writing, namely--writing fluency, lexical richness, and grammatical accuracy--in an experimental group using Facebook (n = 16) and a control group (n = 14) using paper-and-pencil. Both groups underwent a 12-week treatment of two in-class focused freewritings a week. Three writing assessments were administered at the start, middle, and end of the treatment to assess its effectiveness. Results from the Mann-Whitney test showed that the experimental group made more significant gains in terms of writing fluency. On the other hand, neither group made significant progress in lexical richness nor grammatical accuracy. These findings strengthen previous research in support of the use of Facebook in L2 classes and highlight the need for additional studies comparing Facebook with other writing mediums.

Since deep low‐frequency tremors are considered to be associated with large earthquakes that occur adjacently on the same subducting plate interface, it is important to investigate tremors that occurred before the establishment of modern seismograph networks such as the High Sensitivity Seismograph Network (Hi‐net). We propose a deep‐learning solution to detect evidence of tremors in scanned images of paper seismogram records from over 50 years ago. In this study, we fine‐tuned a convolutional neural network (CNN) based on the Residual Network, which was pre‐trained using images of synthetic waveforms from our previous study, using a data set comprised of images generated from real seismic data recorded digitally by Hi‐net to facilitate a supervised analysis. The fine‐tuned CNN was able to predict the presence or absence of tremors in the Hi‐net images with an accuracy of 98.64%. Gradient‐weighted Class Activation Mapping heatmaps created to visualize model predictions indicated that the CNN's ability to detect tremors is not degraded by the presence of teleseisms. Once validated using the Hi‐net images, the CNN was applied to paper seismograms recorded from 1966 to 1977 at the Kumano observatory in southwest Japan, operated by Earthquake Research Institute, The University of Tokyo. The CNN showed potential for detecting tremors in scanned images of paper seismogram records from the past, facilitating downstream tasks such as the creation of new tremor catalogs. However, further training using an augmented data set to control for variables such as inconsistent plotting pen thickness is required to develop a universally applicable model. Plain Language Summary: In 2002, deep low‐frequency tremors, which periodically occur with much smaller amplitudes and longer durations than common earthquakes, were discovered owing to the establishment of dense seismic arrays in Japan. These tremors are considered to be associated with megathrust earthquakes because they occur in deeper regions of plate boundaries compared with common earthquakes. Investigating tremors that occurred before the establishment of dense seismic arrays is important since megathrust earthquakes recur on intervals of 100–200 years, and digital records from modern seismic arrays cover only a fraction of that time. In this study, we developed a convolutional neural network based on the Residual Network (ResNet) that extracts tremors from images of waveforms recorded more than 50 years ago, when seismometers drew waveforms directly on drum‐rolled paper using a pen. The proposed ResNet, which was trained on seismogram images generated from synthetic waveforms and real data recorded digitally by modern seismic arrays, was applied to scanned images of paper seismograms recorded from 1966 to 1977 at an observatory in southwest Japan. A list of tremors was successfully obtained; however, further training using data that accounts for variables such as inconsistent plotting pen thickness is required to develop a universally applicable model. Key Points: Convolutional neural network model for detection of deep low‐frequency tremors from seismogram images is proposedThe model trained with seismogram images converted from real seismic data successfully detects tremorsThe detection performances of the trained model for the paper records at the Kumano observatory in southwest Japan are discussed [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since Marx reported on osteonecrosis of the jaw caused by the injectable bisphosphonates (BPs) pamidronate and zoledronate, there have been numerous reports not only in Western countries, but in Japan as well, of bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) as a pathology similar to radiation-related osteonecrosis/osteomyelitis of the jaw, which is accompanied by exposure of the bone. Osteonecrosis of the jaw similar to that occurring with BPs is also produced with the anti-receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand (RANKL) antibody denosumab, a bone resorption inhibitor that has a different mode of action from BPs, and there is also a report of osteonecrosis of the jaw related to bevacizumab, an angiogenic inhibitor. Because of this, in its newest position paper (2014), the AAOMS changed the nomenclature from BRONJ to "medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw" (MRONJ). This article presents an overview of the position paper on medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw and the current status of the MRONJ in Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some macroalgae drift on the ocean and are stranded on coasts, and these stranded brown macroalgae are regarded to be degraded by organisms. Alginate is a major component of brown macroalgae. An uncovering of how carbon is cycled through brown macroalgae is needed to deeply understand coastal ecosystems. In this study, to gain insights into metabolism of brown macroalgae and alginate in the organisms, we initially confirmed that supralittoral talitrid amphipods (beach fleas or sandhoppers collected on the Shibagaki coast in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan) fed on the brown macroalgae. We then isolated bacteria such as Vibrio sp. with alginate-assimilating capability from the gut of the amphipods. Metagenomic analysis of the gut of amphipods housed in several conditions (e.g. macroalgae or paper as feed, non-sterilized or sterilized environment) showed no condition-dependent compositions of bacteria and fungi, but Vibrio sp. were detected at high frequency, in good agreement with the isolation of Vibrio sp. An intervention study using antibiotics showed that amphipods fed on algae or paper at about the same rate in the presence or absence of antibiotics, and that the antibiotics had no effects on the life span. Moreover, intervention with antibiotics completely killed Vibrio sp. and some other bacteria, and had significant effects on the composition of the flora in the gut, with elimination of the variations observed in the guts of amphipods housed without antibiotics. These data suggest that microbes that were killed by antibiotics, including Vibrio sp., in the gut of talitrid amphipods are not essential for assimilation of brown macroalgae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: The excellent physical and chemical properties of Abacá and Japan papers make them one of the most used materials in restoration of cultural assets on paper. The objective of this work is to characterize the fibers that compose them and identify plant genera or species that were used in their manufacture. M&M: Fibers from samples of each paper and previously collected reference plant material were disintegrated. The diagnostic characters of the fibers were observed with a photomicroscope and photomicrographs were taken. Subsequently, the homologous characters were compared by relating the Abacá paper fiber samples with those of Musa sp. and the Japan paper samples with Broussonetia sp. and Euonymus sp. Results: There were coincidences between the diagnostic characters of the paper fibers of Abacá and Musa sp. Regarding the Japan paper samples, there were results consistent with Broussonetia sp. but not with Euonymus sp. Conclusions: According to the results observed between the Abacá paper fibers and the samples of the collected living material, we infer that the Abacá paper contains fibers of Musa sp. In the Japan paper samples, the similarities observed between the diagnostic characters of the fibers with respect to the reference plant samples indicate the presence of Broussonetia sp. fibers. There is no evidence of fibers of Euonymus sp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transformer is a core device of the power system, and it is generally considered that the aging of insulating paper is important to the transformer. The aging process of insulating paper is the degradation process of cellulose. If it can be detected regularly, the aging of oil–paper insulating systems can be monitored conveniently. 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural is an important chemical substance produced by cellulose decomposition. It has broad prospects because of its many advantages. The oil–paper insulation system was thermally aged at 80, 90, 100, and 110 °C to measure the concentration of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural on insulating paper and in transformer oil. In this paper, the concentration of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural is detected by high‐performance liquid chromatography. The linear correlation coefficient of this method can reach 0.99, and the minimum detected concentration can be reduced to 10 µg/l. Experiments show that the concentration of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural increases with the aging time, and when degree of polymerization (DP) decreased, the concentration of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural increased. The correlation coefficient is greater than 0.92, which shows that there is an experimental relationship between the concentration of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural and DP. The parameters of regression curves are different at different temperatures, but in actual operation, the temperature is low and remains stable. Therefore, 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural is expected to be a new indicator of the aging degree of oil–paper insulation system. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This position paper prepared by the Japanese Working Group on Integrated Nutrition for Dysphagic People (JWIND) aims to summarize the need for nutritional management in adult patients with dysphagia, the issues that nutrition professionals should address, and the promising approaches as well as to propose a vision for the future of nutritional care for adult patients with dysphagia. JWIND is a joint certification system recognized by the Japan Dietetic Association and the Japanese Society of Dysphagia Rehabilitation; its members are mostly experts known as "Certified Specialist of Registered Dietitian for Dysphagia Rehabilitation." Malnutrition and dysphagia are associated with each other. Therefore, malnutrition detection and intervention are essential for patients with dysphagia. However, evidence on the usefulness nutritional assessment and intervention to ensure appropriate nutritional care remains insufficient. Here, we present current knowledge of the relationship between primary diseases causing dysphagia and malnutrition, the indicators used for nutritional assessment, and nutritional interventions such as texture-modified diet (TMD) quality improvement, oral nutritional supplementation, and comprehensive intervention. We also discuss the current status and issues in nutritional care for adult patients with dysphagia. Furthermore, we have proposed measures that nutrition professionals should consider based on 3 perspectives: nutritional assessment, TMD, and nutritional intervention. Individualized and specialized nutritional management by registered dietitians (RDs) through appropriate assessment of the nutritional status of adult patients with dysphagia is needed. To maintain and improve swallowing function and nutritional status, RDs should intervene from the state of risk or early dysphagia onset, providing individualized care per their expertise as part of a multidisciplinary team. However, systematic clinical practice and research regarding the association of nutrition with dysphagia are currently insufficient. Therefore, further clinical practice and evidence building, including the verification of the efficacy on nutritional support through intervention research, are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to publish good research papers from Japan, it is necessary to conduct good (i.e., meaningful) research, obtain good (i.e., meaningful) results, and write good manuscripts that convey the significance of research. In particular, when aiming for publication in an English medical journal, the manuscript should be written in correct and accurate English, which is a major challenge for authors who are non-native speakers of English, such as those from Japan. At the same time, to ensure that the manuscript is a "good paper," attention should also be paid to elements other than language. To write a paper that will be accepted by reliable medical journals, including top-ranked ones, the content should be appropriately written according to the requirements based on international standards, such as the reporting guidelines endorsed by the EQUATOR Network and the recommendations of the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors; this is a common challenge not only for Japanese authors but for authors around the world. Medical writers are professionals who improve the quality of manuscripts and facilitate the publication of research. Based on my own expertise and experience as a medical writer for 20 years in supporting clinical research, I would like to describe the steps I think should be followed to produce good manuscripts. I would also like to focus on the importance of education and of collaboration with professionals in writing and publishing research papers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper City (2021), directed by Adrian Francis, is a documentary film that highlights the 70th anniversary of the firebombing of Tokyo on March 10, 1945. The film presents three elderly survivors' oral accounts of the firebombing and observes their work as memory activists in a long campaign to compel the Japanese government to publicly memorialize the event in a way commensurate with its enormous devastation. Reflecting on issues of memory and forgetting, Francis intends the film as a way of passing survivors' experiences to audiences, who can help to transfer memory to others and to generations beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulation aging of oiled paper is a common malfunction of transformers. It is of great value to recognize the insulation aging status of oiled paper and predict the service life of transformers using appropriate methods. In this study, an aging state recognition method based on partial discharge was proposed. Partial discharge signals were collected, the feature values were obtained through analysis of the principle component factor, and the state was identified by using a support vector machine. A Weibull distribution‐based method was proposed for the prediction of service life, and the residual life of transformers was determined using failure rate function. Through analysis, it was found that the fault analysis method had an accuracy rate of 80.55% in the recognition of the aging state, which was higher than that of Hidden Markov Model (HMM). In the case analysis, the accuracy rate of the method in recognizing the aging state of 100 transformers reached 82.06%. The accuracy of the failure rate function was also verified in the prediction of service life. This study provides some new ideas for the effective recognition of insulation aging of oiled paper in transformers and the prediction of service life. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the production of facial oil blotting papers, a certain number of papers must be counted before packaging. Currently, the papers are counted by hand, and this is hard work. Also, there are risks of adhesion of dust and wrinkles. In order to solve these problems, we propose a vision‐based approach. After the papers, which are arranged by shifting, are captured, the proposed image processing steps detect the boundaries of the papers. By counting the detected boundaries, the number of papers can be counted. Since the parameters for the proposed image processing are optimized by genetic algorithm, prior setting by a user is not necessary. For the experiments, an image dataset was constructed with six types of facial oil blotting papers. The proposed method achieved higher F‐measure than in other related works. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To explore the health beliefs of clinical and academic nurses from Japan, Australia and China regarding wearing paper masks to protect themselves and others, and to identify differences in participants' health beliefs regarding masks. Background: The correct use of face masks and consensus among health professionals across the globe is essential for containing pandemics, and nurses need to act according to policy to protect themselves, educate the public and preserve resources for frontline health workers. Paper masks are worn by health professionals and the general public to avoid the transmission of respiratory infections, such as COVID‐19, but there appear to be differences in health beliefs of nurses within and between countries regarding these. Methods: This qualitative descriptive study used content analysis with a framework approach. Findings: There were major differences in nurse participants' beliefs between and within countries, including how nurses use paper masks and their understanding of their efficacy. In addition, there were cultural differences in the way that nurses use masks in their daily lives and nursing practice contexts. Conclusion: Nurses from different working environments, countries and areas of practice hold a variety of health beliefs about mask wearing at the personal and professional level. Implications for nursing policy and health policy: The COVID‐19 pandemic has sparked much discussion about the critical importance of masks for the safety of health professionals, and there has been considerable discussion and disagreement about health policies regarding mask use by the general public. Improper use of masks may have a role in creating mask shortages or transmitting infections. An evidence‐based global policy on mask use for respiratory illnesses for health professionals, including nurses, and the general public needs to be adopted and supported by a wide‐reaching education campaign. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper can be reused to efficiently manage biomass consumption, meaning that it has potential as an environmentally friendly material. On the other hand, because of high energy usage during the recycling process and transportation inefficiencies, there is a call for the development of technologies that can mitigate this environmental burden. This study evaluated, from a lifecycle perspective, a new technology that can collect and recycle paper within the office. This technology can reduce by over 90% the amount of water used compared with the conventional recycled paper that is pulped and bleached once by the dry process. It also eliminates transportation from paper collection facilities to recycling factories, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This new technology is already in use in Japan, and analyses by user data indicate that evaluation results differ greatly depending on the utilization rate of the machine. In the future, environmental information should be shared by both users and manufacturers, so that users could increase their utilization rate, and manufacturers could develop alternative bonding agents in order to further reduce the total environmental burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Travertines are hot spring carbonate deposits that exhibit characteristic fabrics, including a paper-thin raft and a coated bubble formed by the calcification of water and bubble surfaces, respectively. A previous study interpreted that compared with the water surface, the bubble surface displays more active CO 2 degassing and resultant active CaCO 3 precipitation. However, considering the CO 2 partial pressure and the volumes of atmosphere and bubbles, it is possible that more active CO 2 degassing occurs on the water surface. In addition, the surfaces of water and bubbles at the travertine-depositing sites are negatively charged, but it is still unclear whether the CaCO 3 nucleation on these surfaces occurs via amorphous precursors, like the CaCO 3 nucleation on negatively charged organic matter. This study provides a solution to these uncertainties by examining the aragonitic travertines formed in the Nagayu area of Japan. Through field observations, two types of paper-thin rafts were recognized: one with a smooth surface and formed in approximately 1 h, and the other with a rough surface and formed in approximately 3 h. In addition, the bubbles generated on the microbial mat during the daytime were covered with white minerals within an hour, and with ivory-colored minerals over 8 h after sunset, forming firm coated bubbles. Microelectrode measurements revealed that the active CO 2 degassing on the water surface significantly increased the CaCO 3 saturation state to cause active CaCO 3 precipitation. In contrast, less active CO 2 degassing on the bubble surface did not increase the saturation state, and moderate CaCO 3 precipitation occurred due to the moderately high saturation state of the hot spring water. Various microscopic observations revealed that the smooth-surfaced paper-thin raft comprises a micritic layer of approximately 10–20 μm, which represents tightly arranged submicron-sized granular aragonite. At the lower surface of this layer, hemispherical aragonite partially grew toward the hot spring water. In addition, the rough-surfaced paper-thin raft and coated bubble comprise bundled and acicular aragonites arranged along the surfaces of water and bubble, from which hemispherical aragonite grew toward the hot spring water. Neither the paper-thin raft nor the coated bubble contains primary amorphous CaCO 3. These results suggest that the smooth-surfaced paper-thin raft is formed by active CaCO 3 nucleation on the water surface and subsequent crystal growth, and that the water surface is unfavorable for preserving the amorphous precursors potentially involved in the nucleation. The rough-surfaced paper-thin raft and the coated bubble could have been formed by the attachment of externally formed acicular aragonite to the water/bubble surface and subsequent crystal growth. The revealed formation processes of the paper-thin raft and coated bubble provide valuable information for interpreting their formation mechanism in other travertine deposits, including those in the geological past. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is applying critical discourse analysis (CDA) to mission statements of civil society organizations (CSOs) in the Kansai area of Japan to examine how those texts may be reflecting their views on migration and impacting their practices related to international students. The analysis shows similarities across CSO types in choosing organizational names, using vague and bureaucratic vocabulary for formulating their mission statements, as well as confusing and contradictory style of some statements and event announcements that may be misleading or discouraging for potential members. At the same time, diversity of vocabulary referring to their target audience demonstrates shifting perspectives of CSOs on international students and more generally, on foreigners living in Japan.

Discourse analysis has been getting increasing attention amongst English as a Foreign Language (EFL) school teachers in many academic fields of study in recent years as a greater number of EFL students are likely to study abroad, especially in English-speaking countries. An abstract genre analysis that focuses mainly on pattern underlying specific text types can be helpful for such language teachers to find out new ideas of teaching reading and writing. This study compares six different abstracts of the research papers in Applied Linguistics by identifying five move structures (Introduction, Purpose, Method, Product, and Conclusion) and fourteen sub-move options of the abstract genre. The study also looks closely at some of the main lexical cohesions (e,g., repetition, synonym, antonym, and hyponymy), grammatical cohesions (e,g., additive, adversative, causal, temporal, anaphoric, cataphoric, comparative, ellipsis, and tense usage). It would be worth investigating how well each abstract of the research papers is organized and what makes its abstract so important in terms of the contents. The paper makes a few suggestions for the future possibility of applying the genre-based ESP (English for Specific Purposes) teaching in secondary - and tertiary - level educational settings in Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article delves into the collection of texts related to Japan within Paul Claudel's complete works and supplementary volumes, discussing their organization and significance in understanding Claudel's relationship with Japan. It examines Claudel's travel to Japan in 1898 as a young diplomat and his subsequent appointment as the French ambassador to Japan in 1921, highlighting his perspectives on cultural exchange and diplomatic initiatives.

Introduction: Citation analysis has been used to evaluate the impact of papers in medicine. There has been multitude of orthopaedic oncology-related papers in literature, to our knowledge no citation analysis of orthopaedic oncology papers has been performed. We identified the 50 most-cited orthopaedic oncology papers and evaluated these papers in terms of their time of publication, source journals, countries, institutions, authors, and main topics.Materials and Methods: Science citation index expanded was searched in April 2018 for citations of papers published in 77 selected journals since the beginning of the database. The 50 most-cited orthopaedic oncology papers were identified and evaluated.Results: The number of citations for the top 50 papers ranged from 168 to 1162 (mean 308). These papers were published between 1957 and 2010. 1990s was the most productive decade, with 19 papers of the list. All papers were written in English and they were published in a total of 6 journals. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery-Am published the largest number of papers with 31, followed by Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research with 8. The top 50 papers were created mainly from US and Japan, respectively, with 33 and 5.Conclusions: It is difficult to define the exact impact of a single paper in the literature. In doing citation analysis, it provides us perspective in the history and progress of orthopaedic oncology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enzootic bovine leucosis (EBL) is a neoplastic disease of cattle caused by Bovine leukaemia virus (BLV). EBL causes great economic losses, so a fast and reliable diagnostic method is critical for understanding the status of BLV. This will allow us to control BLV infections efficiently and mitigate economic losses. In this study, we established a direct diagnostic test for BLV using dried blood‐spotted filter papers without sample pre‐treatment. The study was based on 159 clinical blood specimens collected in EDTA from one farm in Kyushu, Japan. The blood‐spotted filter papers were used as the template for direct filter PCR. When an ELISA was used as the diagnostic gold standard, the sensitivity and specificity of the direct filter PCR were 90.1% and 97.5%, respectively. The kappa value for the direct filter PCR and real‐time PCR methods was 0.97. The dried blood samples spotted onto filter papers were stable for at least 10 days at room temperature, even when the samples were from cattle with a low BLV proviral load. Direct filter PCR is a rapid, easy, reliable and cost‐effective diagnostic test that directly detects the BLV proviral genome in clinical blood specimens without DNA extraction. Moreover, it simplifies the collection, transportation and storage procedures for clinical blood specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continual development necessitates innovation. One must discover seeds of innovation and then concentrate resources on these seeds. To do so, one must recognize technology trends and then adopt and execute appropriate innovation strategies. This study used advanced change point detection method to investigate leading indicators that represent changes in technology trends. We examine patents, papers, and newspaper articles in Japan and US for 55 technologies. Results suggest that patents can be more appropriate as leading indicators than either papers or newspapers. This result can contribute to appropriate innovation strategies for planning and updating, and can provide tools that are useful to decision-makers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Concentrations of product gases CO, H 2 , and hydrocarbons varied by feedstock. • Concentrations of CH 4 and tar were similar for different feedstocks. • Higher ER showed lower tar concentration. It ranged 2.5–14.0 g/Nm3 -dry. • ER of 0.4 was an optimal gasification condition for a GE power generation. Energy recovery from small and medium scale waste thermal treatment facilities in the municipalities of Japan is challenging, owing to low power generation efficiency and high economic demands. Gas Engine (GE) generation is considered an efficient resource utilization method in these facilities. In this study, new and consistent feedstock, Refuse Paper and Plastic Fuel (RPF), and wood pellets were tested in an air-blown Fluidized Bed Gasifier (FBG) for syngas utilization in a GE. With temperatures ranging from 700 to 940 °C and varying Equivalence Ratios (ER) of 0.3–0.5, some of the most important product gas characteristics were analyzed, including the Lower Heating Value (LHV) and tar concentration levels. Gas composition results revealed that the concentration tendencies varied for the product gases CO, H 2 , and hydrocarbons, depending on the feedstock type, whereas the same tendencies were observed for CH 4 and tar concentrations. Through the ER range, the LHV of product gas for RPF and wood pellets was 3.4–5.9 MJ/Nm3. Tar concentrations decreased to 2.5–14.0 g/Nm3 -dry as the ER was raised. The optimal ER for LHV performance in GE generation was approximately 0.4 for RPF and wood pellets, and remaining tar concentrations were about 5.0 g/Nm3 -dry at the gasifier exit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This publication seeks to consider statistics education in Japan while referencing a student paper. The paper to be considered is as follows: "Gakusei no Koudou ga Gakusei Seikatsu Manzokudo ni Ataeru Eikyou" (The Influence of Student Behavior on the Degree of Satisfaction Perceived in Student Life).

Background: As the volume of scientific publications increases, the rate of retraction of published papers is also likely to increase. In the present study, we report the characteristics of retracted papers from clinical neurosurgery and allied clinical and basic science specialties. Methods: Retracted papers were identified using two separate search strategies on PubMed. Attributes of the retracted papers were collected from PubMed and the Retraction Watch database. The reasons for retraction were analyzed. The factors that correlated with time to retraction were identified. Detailed citation analysis for the retracted papers was performed. The retraction rates for neurosurgery journals were computed. Results: A total of 191 retractions were identified; 55% pertained to clinical neurosurgery. The most common reasons for retraction were plagiarism, duplication, and compromised peer review. The countries associated with the highest number of retractions were China, USA, and Japan. The full text of the retraction notice was not available for 11% of the papers. A median of 50% of all citations received by the papers occurred after retraction. The factors that correlated with a longer time to retraction included basic science category, the number of collaborating departments, and the H-index of the journal. The overall rate of retractions in neurosurgery journals was 0.037%. Conclusions: The retraction notice needs to be freely available on all search engines. Plagiarism checks and reference checks prior to publication of papers (to ensure no retracted papers have been cited) must be mandatory. Mandatory data deposition would help overcome issues with data and results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous socio-legal factors make the process of surrogate decision-making for people living in dementia very complicated in Japan. In this discussion paper, we argue that the lack of early consultation between patients, surrogate decision-makers and healthcare providers and the overreliance of patients and their families on doctors to assume the decision-making role lead to healthcare practices that may not align with the patient's wishes. Further, we argue that lack of laws on surrogate decision-making, changing family structure and the liabilities associated with the care of people living with dementia contribute to the complexity of the decision-making process in Japan. Finally, given the rapidly changing social and healthcare norms in Japan, we call for greater involvement of nurses and care workers in the decision-making process to ensure patient-centric treatment and care are adopted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing presence of e-books (electronic books) has become a major focus in countries around the world. In the United States, e-books represented 28% of the total book sales for 2012. In Japan, the conversion from paper books to e-books is expected to accelerate by the prevalent use of smartphones and tablet PCs. It is therefore important to quantitatively evaluate the environmental load of paper books and e-books for a sustainable society. In this study, paper books are compared to e-books read on different electronic devices (e-ink tablets, tablets, cell phones, smartphones, laptop computers, desktop computers and portable music players) through a case study on a 224-page book. The study is based on key primary data such as use time and reading speed for each device and aims to minimize assumptions made in other studies. GHG emissions for paper books are 1.24 kg-CO 2 e/book, and are reduced to 1.11 kg-CO 2 e/book when the effect of paper recycling is taken into consideration. The results for e-books under average use-time conditions range from 0.25 to 0.91 kg-CO 2 e/book with the e-ink tablet having the lowest emissions. When the average use time of each e-book device is applied, the paper book has a higher impact than all the e-books. However, sensitivity analysis shows that the impact of paper books can be lower than that of e-books for larger screen devices such as tablets, laptops and desktops when the reuse of books is considered or the e-book reading device is hardly used during its life cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this case report is to describe a minimally invasive technique for non-vital tooth bleaching using traditional Japanese paper, known as washi. Non-vital tooth bleaching with a mixture of sodium perborate and 30% hydrogen peroxide rolled in Japanese paper for a traumatically injured tooth, and in-office vital-tooth bleaching for the upper front six teeth and first premolars, were performed. Five-year follow-up showed satisfactory stability in the bleaching effects and did not show any problems in the traumatically injured tooth. The use of Japanese paper for non-vital tooth bleaching may minimize damage to discolored non-vital teeth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Origami, the art of paper folding in Japan, is a transformative process. Tessellations are defined by Merriam- Webster as the "covering of an infinite geometric plane without gaps or overlaps by congruent plane figures of one type or a few types." A strategic array of repeating and/or combining a set of specific folds, known as motifs or molecules, will yield Origami Tessellation patterns. No paper is added or eliminated during the construction process. The purpose of this exercise is to challenge students with the highly engaging task of applying a defined set of rules to a plain square of paper. In order to do so, strategies need to be explored for the best combination the individual folds on an underlying grid system into a system of corresponding molecules. The synchronized folds of such an array will create the desired geometric tessellation patterns. In essence, the process of folding complex origami tessellations bears strong similarities to the complex methods designers are taught to pursue in order to solve multifaceted problems in the field of product design, product interactions, and design for emergent behaviors. While past generations of designers approached challenges predominantly from a singular, product-centric fashion, the increasing complexity of everyday artifacts has changed the paradigm and now calls for a much broader sensitivity of designing. The act of folding is itself strongly guided by both the designer's mind and skillset. The execution of complex tessellation folds teaches designers to concentrate on the given task from beginning to end, as it is essential to stay focused along the way and work with uttermost precision. Synonymous to problem-solving during a design process, the act of folding tessellations leads to the discovery of opportunities which necessitate the development of strategies for merging individual elements/ideas into a bigger, coherent picture. The rules become the grammar; the individual folds become the words, and the interaction between the two forms a dialogue. Folding origami tessellations is (purposeful) poetry. Within a short amount of time, students are able to create visually stunning results and develop an awareness of the parameters involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A risk assessment study of seven phthalates in paper diapers for newborn babies produced in Japan was performed. The diapers were purchased and the contents of the seven phthalates were determined and estimated amounts of exposure were calculated based on the eluted rate into artificial medium of urine or sweat, average weight of infants, and frequency of use. Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate and di- n -butyl phthalate were detected in the topsheets and determined to be 0.6 μg/g and 0.2 μg/g, respectively. The daily estimated exposure volume was calculated to be in the range of 1.86 × 10 −10 –2.98 × 10 −6 mg/kg/day as follows: content of seven phthalates in the topsheet (0.1–1 μg/g) × eluted rate of phthalates into artificial sweat (0.0006–2.4%) × weight of the topsheet of a diaper (1.5 g) × the number of diapers used per day (12 sheets) × skin absorption rate (0.005–0.1)/average body weight (2.9 kg). For hazard assessment, we used 0.2–300 mg/kg/day for the seven phthalates based on the data available at international agencies. The margin of exposure to the seven phthalates was 6.71 × 10 4 –1.99 × 10 11 , indicating that the risk of exposure to phthalates from the diapers produced in Japan was negligible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advent of electronic medical records brought image filing systems to many hospitals, as well as electronic endoscopic medical records. However, data integration among multiple different vendors has not yet been accomplished. We start the Japan Endoscopic Database ( JED) Project endorsed by Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society ( JGES) from January 2015. The purposes of this project are as follows: (i) developing the world's largest endoscopic database generated from daily use of the reporting system; (ii) capturing the actual performance of endoscopic practice in Japan; and (iii) standardizing the terminology and fundamental items for registry of clinical studies. Moreover, the JED project has the potential to automatically collect data about adverse events, competency and evaluation of residents, and actual numbers of procedures on a nationwide scale, certification for the specialty board system, and so on. We believe that this design paper will be helpful not only for future nationwide research but also for international research ( UMIN000016093). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report was written by the Japanese Society of Dysphagia Rehabilitation, the Japanese Association of Rehabilitation Nutrition, the Japanese Association on Sarcopenia and Frailty, and the Society of Swallowing and Dysphagia of Japan to consolidate the currently available evidence on the topics of sarcopenia and dysphagia. Histologically, the swallowing muscles are of different embryological origin from somatic muscles, and receive constant input stimulation from the respiratory center. Although the swallowing muscles are striated, their characteristics are different from those of skeletal muscles. The swallowing muscles are inevitably affected by malnutrition and disuse; accumulating evidence is available regarding the influence of malnutrition on the swallowing muscles. Sarcopenic dysphagia is defined as dysphagia caused by sarcopenia of the whole body and swallowing‐related muscles. When sarcopenia does not exist in the entire body, the term "sarcopenic dysphagia" should not be used. Additionally, sarcopenia due to neuromuscular diseases should be excluded; however, aging and secondary sarcopenia after inactivity, malnutrition and disease (wasting disorder and cachexia) are included in sarcopenic dysphagia. The treatment of dysphagia due to sarcopenia requires both dysphagia rehabilitation, such as resistance training of the swallowing muscles and nutritional intervention. However, the fundamental issue of how dysphagia caused by sarcopenia of the swallowing muscles should be diagnosed remains unresolved. Furthermore, whether dysphagia can be caused by primary sarcopenia should be clarified. Additionally, more discussion is required on issues such as the relationship between dysphagia and secondary sarcopenia, as well as the diagnostic criteria and means for diagnosing dysphagia caused by sarcopenia. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 91–97. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In nonclinical safety studies for new drug development, healthy animals have been commonly used. However, in some cases, the use of animal models of human disease is considered to be more favorable in evaluating risks in patients. To elucidate the current status of the use of animal models for nonclinical safety assessment, an internal questionnaire from the Japan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association and surveys (questionnaire period: August 27 to September 30, 2015) of both common technical documents and review reports of approved drugs (approval period: May 1999 to May 2017) disclosed by the Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices Agency were conducted. Although there were some concerns and limitations raised, the survey results revealed that animal models have been used in nonclinical safety assessment on a case-by-case basis and that nonclinical safety studies using animal models were included in the data packages of several approved drugs in Japan. The survey results also revealed that nonclinical safety studies using animal models have become more frequent in the past few years. In almost all cases, useful information, such as signs of toxicity under disease conditions and mechanisms of toxic change, was obtained from the results of nonclinical studies using animal models. Note: This is an opinion article submitted to the Toxicologic Pathology Forum. It represents the views of the author(s). It does not constitute an official position of the Society of Toxicologic Pathology, British Society of Toxicological Pathology, or European Society of Toxicologic Pathology, and the views expressed might not reflect the best practices recommended by these Societies. This article should not be construed to represent the policies, positions, or opinions of their respective organizations, employers, or regulatory agencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]