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AbstractBackgroundMethodsResultsConclusionHealth-related quality of life (HRQOL) is indicative of an individual’s overall health status, and identifying factors that influence HRQOL is important in improving HRQOL. This study investigated associations between the physical function, with focus being placed on the balance ability, and HRQOL.This cross-sectional study assessed HRQOL using the Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory. Based on their total, physical, and psychosocial HRQOL scores, participants were divided into higher and lower score groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify physical function that affect HRQOL.This study included 323 Japanese children aged 8–12 (167 girls, mean age 10.5 ± 1.4 years). The analysis revealed that the total score correlated with balance ability (odds ratio 1.030; p = 0.017) and cardiorespiratory fitness (odds ratio 0.963; p = 0.004). Physical scores correlated with lower body muscle strength (odds ratio 1.020; p = 0.029) and balance ability (odds ratio 1.034; p = 0.006). Psychosocial scores correlated with balance ability (odds ratio 1.024; p = 0.042) and cardiorespiratory fitness (odds ratio 0.972; p = 0.023).Notably, the balance function was tied to all HRQOL scores among physical functions. The results suggest that improving balance ability is important for maintaining and improving HRQOL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-back pain is common among school-aged children. Decreased trunk flexibility in childhood influences low-back pain in adulthood. Previous studies examining the association between low-back pain and trunk flexibility in children are insufficient. Examining this association among elementary school children may help to better understand trunk flexibility in children with low-back pain and to modify the management of inflexibility. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the prevalence of low-back pain and its relationship with physical function among elementary school students. School-aged children aged 6–12 years were recruited in Japan between May 2018 and March 2023. Fingertip-to-floor distance, back muscle strength, pelvic tilt angle during gait, and the visual analog scale for low-back pain were measured. In addition, factors independently related to low-back pain were determined through logistic regression analysis. Low-back pain was reported in 9.6% of the 394 participants (boys, 191; girls, 203). All children with low-back pain presented with back pain when they moved; however, the pain was non-specific. Logistic regression analysis showed that the fingertip-to-floor distance was an independent risk factor for low-back pain (odds ratio, 0.921; p = 0.007). The odds ratios calculated in the logistic regression analysis confirmed that low-back pain frequency increased as the fingertip-to-floor distance decreased. The risk of low-back pain was associated with inflexibility, regardless of sex and muscle strength. These findings suggest that children with low-back pain must increase their trunk and lower extremity flexibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Control of postural adjustments requires tight regulation of the spinal alignments. Sagittal imbalance may cause balance impairment and proprioceptive decline in older adults. However, the evidence on the proprioceptive mechanisms is limited, although it is known that poor proprioceptive inputs may induce spinal deformities. Thus, this study aimed to measure proprioceptive control quantifiers in older adults with sagittal imbalance to clarify the characteristic postural adjustments during proprioceptive inputs. What are the specific proprioceptive postural adjustments required to maintain balance in older adult patients with lumbar spondylosis? This was a cross-sectional, observational study. The participants were classified according to the sagittal vertical axis (SVA) lengths with 50 mm as the cut-off value. The pressure displacement center was determined in 36 patients without sagittal imbalance and 68 patients with sagittal imbalance during an upright stance on a balance board with eyes closed. Vibratory stimulations of 27–272 Hz were applied to the gastrocnemius (GS) and lumbar multifidus (LM) muscles to measure the relative contributions and center of pressures of different relative proprioceptive weighting ratios (RPWs) used on postural adjustments. The RPWs of older adults with sagittal imbalance were higher than that in those without sagittal imbalance (56–100 Hz; p = 0.013). Logistic regression analysis showed that older patients with sagittal imbalance had a significant ankle proprioception control of advantage (odds ratio: 1.1, 95% confidence interval: 1.01−1.1, p = 0.012). In older patients with sagittal imbalance, the reliance on hip strategy during balance control (RPW 56–100 Hz) decreases. A quantitative assessment of postural stability during proprioceptive inputs is crucial to identify dependence on proprioception signals, including postural strategy, in older patients with sagittal imbalance. Interventions to improve proprioception can improve the postural stability and strategy of older patients with sagittal imbalance. • We assessed dependence on proprioception signals in patients with sagittal imbalance. • Patients with sagittal imbalance have a higher risk of trunk RPW 56–100 Hz reduction. • There was no significant in their RPW 30–53 Hz and 140–250 Hz. • Patients with sagittal imbalance have a important to assessment proprioception signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare walking efficiency, and associated physical function, between children, with and without developmental coordination disorder trait. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: The study was conducted in a Medical and Rehabilitation Center for Developmental Disabilities in Okazaki, Japan. Subjects: The study included 286 children, 6–12 years of age, with and without developmental coordination disorder trait. Developmental coordination disorder trait was defined by a score below the −1 standard deviation on the Japanese version of the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire. Based on this criterion, 45 children (28 boys) were classified into the developmental coordination disorder trait group and the other 241 (115 boys) in the control group. Measures: The following physical function outcomes were measured: single leg stance test; step length variability; and walking efficiency, measured using the 2-min walk test. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the association between developmental coordination disorder trait and lower walking efficiency and physical function. Results: Compared to the control group, the developmental coordination disorder group showed lower walking efficiency (P = 0.026), higher step length variability (P = 0.047), and shorter single leg stance test (P = 0.001). Developmental coordination disorder was independently associated with walking efficiency (odds ratio, 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.001–1.061; P = 0.041) and single leg stance test (odds ratio, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.978–0.996; P = 0.006), but not to step length variability, age, and sex. Conclusions: Lower walking efficiency increases energy expenditure in children with developmental coordination disorder trait. Interventions to improve walking efficiency could improve the physical function and participation of these children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This cross-sectional observational study aimed to assess gait performance, its correlation with physical functions, and its dual-task costs in children with Down syndrome (DS), to investigate their gait adaptations. Gait performance with or without movie-watching tasks was evaluated in 17 children with DS (age, 6–12 years) and 51 age- and sex-matched controls, using three-dimensional gait analysis. We compared participants' demographics, physical functions, and gait performance without tasks between the two groups. In the DS group, correlations between physical functions, the intelligence quotient, and gait variables were assessed. Dual-task costs for gait variables were also compared between the two groups. Children with DS showed poorer balance function and muscle strength and lower gait quality than the control group. In the DS group, there was a significant positive correlation between gait speed, step length, and intelligence quotient. There were no correlations between the balance function, muscle strength, intelligence quotient, and gait quality. Dual-task costs for gait speed, step length, and cadence were greater in the DS group; however, there was no significant difference in dual-task costs for gait quality between the two groups. These findings highlight the importance of providing appropriate interventions for motor functions in school-aged children with DS based on their gait performance in single- and dual-task conditions, as well as on their intelligence quotient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various types of displacement sensors, which measure position changes of object, have been developed depending on the type and shape of the object under measurement, measurement range of the amount of displacement, required accuracy, and application. We are developing a new type of displacement sensor that is image-based, capable of measuring changes in 6DOF (3D position and orientation) of an object simultaneously, and is compact and low-cost. This displacement sensor measures the 6DOF of an object using images obtained by a monocular vision system. To confirm the usefulness of the proposed method, experimental measurements were conducted using a simple and inexpensive optical system. In this experiment, we were able to accurately measure changes of about 0.25 mm in displacement and 0.1 deg in inclination of the object at a distance of a few centimeters, and thus confirming the usefulness of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to develop gait standards for gait parameters in school-aged Japanese children and assess age-related differences in gait patterns and parameters. Children aged 6–12 years (n = 424) were recruited from two elementary schools. An instrumented three-dimensional gait analysis system was used to record each child's gait kinematics, kinetics, and spatiotemporal parameters. Participants were subdivided into three age groups (Group A, 6–8 years; Group B, 9–10 years; and Group C, 11–12 years). LMS Chartmaker, version 2.54, was used to create a developmental chart for the gait pattern. The non-normalized step and stride lengths were significantly longer, and the cadence was lower in older children; however, the opposite outcome occurred when analyzing normalized data. Ankle moment differed significantly by age, and the maximum ankle moment was higher in older children than that in younger children. Furthermore, the hip and knee flexion angles during gait and the normalized spatiotemporal parameters of Japanese children aged 6–12 years differed by age and from those of children from other countries. The centile chart of the gait pattern is a useful tool for clinicians to assess developmental changes in the gait pattern and detect gait abnormalities in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although previous studies have identified asymmetry in gait parameters in children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD), they have not investigated whether these findings coexist with asymmetry in gait quality, as represented by the gait deviation index (GDI).Research Question: This study sought to measure gait symmetry in children with traits of DCD (DCD trait) to elucidate the characteristic gait pattern.Methods: This study included 172 (82 girls, 90 boys) participants with and without DCD trait (age: 6-12 years), as assessed using the Japanese version of the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire (DCDQ-J), which consists of three subscales. Three-dimensional gait analysis data were obtained during the gait trials. GDI, step length, and step time data were recorded for both the right and left legs, and symmetry ratios were calculated.Results: Participants in the DCD trait group (n = 30) had a significantly lower GDI score (p < 0.0001) and a higher GDI symmetry ratio (p = 0.004) than typically developing children. Furthermore, DCD trait was related to the GDI symmetry ratio (odds ratio, 1.2; p = 0.001; 95 % confidence interval, 1.062-1.289). The control during movement, which was a DCDQ-J subscale, was negatively correlated with the GDI symmetry ratio (r=-0.257, p<0.001).Significance: This study's results lend support to the hypothesis that an increase in the GDI symmetry ratio is associated with the DCD trait. A quantitative assessment of gait performance is important to help identify gait asymmetry, including gait quality, in children with a DCD trait. Children with a DCD trait have a poor ability to control the interaction of lower leg movements, which may cause bilateral asymmetry in gait quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regular physical activity is an important component of physical health of children and has been associated with increasing skeletal muscle mass and muscle strength. Children with low levels of physical activity may experience health problems, such as loss of muscle mass, later in life. Thus, it may be valuable to identify declining physical function in children who do not perform the recommended amount of physical activity. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between the amount of physical activity performed for ≥60 min per day for ≥5 days per week and the skeletal muscle mass index and physical function in young children. In total, 340 typically developing children aged 6–12 years (175 girls; average age, 9.5±1.9 years) were included in this cross-sectional study. We evaluated the proportion of children performing the recommended minimum of 60 min of daily moderate-to-vigorous physical activity at least 5 days per week. The skeletal muscle mass and Gait Deviation Index scores, gait speed, grip strength, Five Times Sit-to-Stand test results, Timed Up-and-Go test results, one-leg standing time, and gait efficiency were evaluated. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity with the skeletal muscle mass index, percent body fat, and physical function, after controlling for confounding factors (age and sex). A logistic regression analysis revealed that the skeletal muscle mass index was independently associated with moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (odds ratio, 2.34; 95% confidence interval, 1.17–4.71; P = 0.017). Performance of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity for ≥5 days per week for ≥60 min per day was associated with the skeletal muscle mass index score of Japanese children. Our findings highlighted the importance of performing moderate-to-vigorous physical activity for the development of skeletal muscle mass in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Williams syndrome (WS) is a genetically based neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by intellectual disability and impaired visuospatial recognition. The aim of this study was to analyze the gait characteristics of WS children with impaired visuospatial recognition using a three-dimensional gait analysis (3DGA) to clarify the gait adaptation needed to compensate for it. 3DGA was performed in 8 WS children with impaired visuospatial recognition (mean age, 11.8 years) and 9 age-, sex-, height-, and weight-matched controls. Clinical data, fundamental motor tests, and gait variables while walking on a flat surface and walking up a mat were compared between the two groups, and the correlations between variables were analyzed in the WS children. WS children showed impairment of balance function without muscle weakness. In walking on a flat surface, the WS group showed reduced walking speed, short step length, increased variability of step length, increased knee flexion throughout the stance phase, increased horizontal pelvic range of motion (ROM), and a low Gait Deviation Index and a high Gait Profile Score, which are indices of gait quality. In walking up a mat, the WS group showed further reduced walking speed and decreased sagittal hip flexion and ankle dorsiflexion ROM in the swing phase. Impaired balance function was significantly correlated with increased variability of step length and decreased sagittal ankle dorsiflexion ROM in the swing phase. The detailed gait pattern of WS children with impaired visuospatial recognition was presented. These findings show that impaired visuospatial recognition and balance function contribute to gait adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Reduced proprioception affects fall risks in elderly people with lumbar spondylosis. The decrease in proprioception in the trunk or lower legs may contribute to a decline in postural stability. We aimed to investigate the association between proprioceptive postural stability and fall risks in elderly individuals with lumbar spondylosis. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, the centre-of-pressure displacement was determined in elderly individuals with lumbar spondylosis during upright stance while standing on a Wii Balance Board with their eyes closed (fall-risk group, n = 55; non-fall-risk group, n = 60). Vibratory stimulations at 30 Hz were applied to the lumbar multifidus and gastrocnemius to evaluate the relative contributions of proprioceptive signals used in postural control (relative proprioceptive weighting ratio). Results: Compared with the non-fall-risk group, the fall-risk group displayed a high relative proprioceptive weighting ratio (p = 0.024). Relative proprioceptive weighting ratio (odds ratio, 1.1; 95% confidence interval: 1.004–1.109) was independently associated with fall risks after adjusting for confounding factors. Among variables related to fall risk, the relative proprioceptive weighting ratio was a significant factor (p < 0.035). Conclusion: The fall-risk group of elderly individuals with lumbar spondylosis was dependent on the ankle strategy. The fall risk in elderly people with lumbar spondylosis could be due to over-dependence on the input from muscle spindles in the gastrocnemius. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We theoretically investigated the features of hot carrier solar cells, from which photogenerated carriers are extracted before they are completely thermalized. There are three channels of energy dissipation from photogenerated carriers that lowers the conversion efficiency: thermalization in the absorber, emission from the absorber, and thermodynamically unavoidable heat flux to the ambient. The emission increases with increasing carrier density in the absorber, whereas the heat flux decreases. Previous calculations of the conversion efficiency have been carried out under the supposition of no thermalization of carriers. In this case, the dominant process of energy dissipation is the emission, like conventional solar cells represented by the Shockley and Queisser formula. In practice, the carriers should be extracted to external circuits immediately after photogeneration because they are partially thermalized. This restriction leads to a much smaller carrier density and consequently more significant energy dissipation by heat flux, whereas the influence of the emission is negligible. As a result, the conversion efficiency is considerably lower than the values under the supposition of no thermalization. To suppress the heat flux to improve conversion efficiency, a smaller effective electron mass and a higher carrier temperature are required, as well as more intense irradiation. When the effective electron mass is much smaller than that of holes, the thermalization of holes has little influence on lowering the conversion efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three kinds of important properties of the solar cell were calculated: short-circuit current density, open-circuit voltage, and conversion efficiency. Two equations which show the relationship between the minority-carrier diffusion length and the grain size or the etch pit density were used for the calculation. The dependence of the properties on the cell thickness were estimated as a function of grain size and etch-pit density. The effect of the internal reflectance with varying minority-carrier diffusion length was also examined. The results show that thin film polycrystalline silicon solar cells have the potential to attain an efficiency of 17% even at a film thickness of 2 μm if the grain size is bigger than 10 μm and the etch-pit density of less than 1 × 10[sup 6] cm[sup −2]. The principal requirement is to achieve efficient light trapping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MINI: Elderly patients older than 65 years were divided into non-specific low back pain (NSLBP) and non-LBP (NLBP) groups. The postural control study of the relative contributions of different proprioceptive signals (relative proprioceptive weighting ratio [RPW]) revealed lower leg proprioceptive decreases (RPW 240 Hz) in NSLBP compared to NLBP.Study Design: A cross-sectional, observational study.Objective: The aim of this study was to determine a specific proprioceptive control strategy during postural balance in elderly patients with non-specific low back pain (NSLBP) and non-LBP (NLBP).Summary Of Background Data: Proprioceptive decline is an important risk factor for decreased balance control in elderly patients with NSLBP. The resulting reduction in proprioception in the trunk or lower legs may contribute to a reduction in postural sway. This study aims to determine the specific proprioceptive control strategy used during postural balance in elderly patients with NSLBP and NLBP and to assess whether this strategy is related to proprioceptive decline in NSLBP.Methods: Pressure displacement centers were determined in 28 elderly patients with NSLBP and 46 elderly patients with NLBP during upright stances on a balance board without the benefit of vision. Gastrocnemius and lumbar multifidus muscle vibratory stimulations at 30, 60, and 240 Hz, respectively, were applied to evaluate the relative contributions of the different proprioceptive signals (relative proprioceptive weighting ratio, RPW) used in postural control.Results: Compared to elderly patients with NLBP, those with NSLBP had a lower RPW at 240 Hz and significantly higher RPW at 30 Hz. A logistic regression analysis showed that RPW at 240 Hz was independently associated with NSLBP after controlling for confounding factors.Conclusion: Elderly patients with NSLBP decreased their reliance on ankle strategy (RPW at 240 Hz) and hip strategy (RPW at 30 Hz) proprioceptive signals during balance control. The inability to control hip and ankle strategies indicates a deficit of postural control and is hypothesized to result from proprioceptive impairment. Moreover, elderly patients with NSLBP are at higher risk for lower leg proprioceptive decrease (240 Hz) through the NSLBP exacerbation.Level Of Evidence: 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unlike the conventional theoretical approach explaining tourism demand by various kinds of determinants, this paper proposes a model in which probabilistic behavior explains the dynamics of the number of tourists. More specifically, the model assumes two different probabilities: one for first-time travelers and another for frequent travelers. This paper empirically examines the dynamics of tourists to Okinawa, Japan. While income and transport costs explain the probability of first-time visitors, they do not explain the probability of returning visitors; however, congestion index, which reflects the busy lifestyle of larger cities, does. This suggests that tourism policy should differ depending on how mature or well established a location is as a tourist destination. Given that Okinawa is acknowledged as the foremost resort destination among Japanese, the priority for resource allocation of tourism promotion should focus on the preservation of the natural environment and original culture, thereby offering a unique experience to visitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper revisits the question of whether NAFTA contributed to the productivity convergence between Mexico and the US. It introduces improved procedures for generating total factor productivity (TFP) data and applies new and more appropriate econometric methods. With these refinements, the paper provides some counter-evidence to the previous literature's findings of technology convergence toward a smaller gap level and NAFTA's positive effect on it. Our main result suggests an increasing TFP gap level, while some robustness checks, although not documenting increasing gaps, weaken the claim of the previous literature. The paper also applies a difference-in-difference approach and finds no evidence of sizeable effects of NAFTA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We have calculated impact ionization (II) and Auger recombination (AR) lifetimes in hot carrier solar cells (HC-SCs) in operation, and found that these lifetimes are much longer than the average retention times of photo-generated carriers in the cells at an appropriate range of applied voltage, under practical conditions of 500–1000 times-concentrated solar irradiation and carrier thermalization times of several hundred picoseconds. This means that the particle conservation (PC) model, in which II and AR are completely excluded, can be applied to predict the conversion efficiency. In contrast, the PC model does not stand under the ideal condition of the maximally concentrated irradiation and no thermalization of carriers, as previously pointed out. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Analyzing the performance of thin film polycrystalline silicon solar cells fabricated by silane-gas-free process including the aluminum-induced-crystallization technique by using the device simulation program “PC1D”, we have estimated the efficiency of them. In addition, we have discussed the issues to make the silane-gas-free process practical. In the cell fabrication by silane-gas-free process, segregation of impurity atoms at the grain boundaries of the Si film is one of the serious problems. By suppressing the impurity inclusion and optimizing the cell parameters, the simulated efficiency is to be about 13% in single-junction cells. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The responses of two butterhead lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) cultivars ‘P’ and ‘L-2’ were investigated under Na2SO4 and NaHCO3 salinity stress. The influences of salinity on gas exchange and distribution of mineral composition in plants were determined. The salinity treatments were applied through a nutrient solution containing 0, 20, 40 and 60 mM Na2SO4 or 0, 2.5, 5 and 7.5 mM NaHCO3. With increasing concentration of Na2SO4 or NaHCO3, leaf area, shoot dry weight, leaf length and leaf width decreased, photosynthetic rate and stomatal conductance also diminished. NaHCO3 was more toxic to lettuce shoot growth than Na2SO4. The decrease in water uptake per plant implied osmotic stress existed under Na2SO4 salinity, while in the NaHCO3 experiment, water uptake was not affected but pH of the nutrient solution increased markedly. Leaf necrosis appeared in both cultivars at Na2SO4 concentrations above 40 mM, and leaves were chlorotic at NaHCO3 concentrations above 5 mM. In both experiments, leaf injury symptoms were more severe in ‘L-2’ plants than in ‘P’ plants. The concentrations of K and Ca decreased, whereas Na concentration increased, as Na2SO4 concentration increased. The Na concentration in the root was greater than in the shoot of ‘P’ plants, whereas the trend was just the reverse in ‘L-2’ plants. The K concentration in the shoot decreased and Na concentration increased with increasing NaHCO3 concentration. Shoot Ca only decreased in ‘L-2’ plants. The growth reduction under Na2SO4 stress may be due to the combined effects of osmotic stress and excess accumulation of Na, while in the NaHCO3 experiment, the growth reduction may be related to the HCO3− toxicity and high pH rather than water stress or excessive Na. The cultivar ‘L-2’ was more sensitive to Na2SO4 and NaHCO3 salinity than the cultivar ‘P’. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Children with behavioral problems have a high risk of impaired motor performance. However, the characteristics of balance functions and their associations with behavioral traits are unclear in this population. This study aimed to evaluate balance functions and their relationships with the degree of behavioral problems in school-aged children. A total of 209 children, aged 6–10 years, were divided into two groups, those with and those without behavioral problems, using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Physical assessments included the one-leg standing test (OLST), the two-step test, and the five-times-sit-to-stand test. We compared the data between groups and assessed for correlations in terms of total difficulties and the SDQ subscale scores. Children with behavioral problems showed significantly reduced the OLST results (p < 0.001) and the two-step test results (p = 0.008). The five-times-sit-to-stand test results did not show significant differences between groups. The OLST results were significantly correlated with emotional symptoms (r = −0.22, p < 0.001), hyperactivity/inattention (r = −0.29, p < 0.001), peer relationship problems (r = −0.22, p < 0.001), and total difficulties (r = −0.32, p < 0.001). Meanwhile, the two-step test results showed no significant correlation with the SDQ scores. Children with behavioral problems have poor balance function, thereby increasing the risk for instability. This suggests that the balance function of children with behavioral problems needs to be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children born late preterm (LP) have an increased risk of poor developmental motor outcomes.Aims: This study aimed to assess physical functions and gait performance in school-aged children born LP.Study Design: Cross-sectional study.Subjects: Physical functions and gait performance were evaluated in 277 children aged 6-10 years born LP (n = 22) and full-term (FT) (n = 255).Outcome Measures: Physical function tests consisted of five times sit-to-stand test (FTSST), one-leg standing time, and grip strength. FTSST was used to assess the functional muscle strength of the lower limbs and dynamic balance function. Gait performance tests included gait quality, spatiotemporal gait parameters, and gait variability. Clinical data, physical functions, and gait performance were compared between two groups. Furthermore, logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the association between all variables and LP birth.Results: In physical function tests, children born LP showed poorer FTSST than those born FT (p = 0.039). No significant difference in gait performance tests were identified between the two groups. Logistic regression analysis of FTSST for LP (adjusted for age at assessment) revealed that FTSST was significantly associated with LP birth (p = 0.004, odds ratio = 1.579, 95% confidence interval = 1.160-2.149).Conclusions: We demonstrated the physical functions and gait performance in school-aged children born LP. Our findings indicate that it is important to focus on the decreased functional muscle strength of the lower limbs and reduced dynamic balance function related to LP birth to improve functional mobility in children born LP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The formation process of iso-α-acids, beer bitterness, was theoretically analyzed. • The activation free energy difference is attributed to the solvation effect. • The correct structures of the compounds causing bitterness in beer were determined. • The reaction mechanism and acceleration effect of magnesium cation were elucidated. • The solvation effect of water accelerates isomerization with magnesium cation. The α-acids contained in hops are one of the ingredients of beer. The isomerization of α-acids produces iso-α-acids, the main source of bitterness in beer. In this study, the isomerization mechanism of the α-acid, cohumulone, was elucidated by using density functional theory in conjunction with the polarizable continuum model or 3D-RISM integral equation theory of liquids. The calculated reaction diagram is consistent with experimental results; the activation free energy difference between the cis and trans isomers is in good agreement with the experimental estimate. The activation energy difference results from solvation energy. Additionally, a calculation of NMR chemical shifts showed that the proton position of isocohumulone is different from that proposed previously. The effect of Mg2+ cation on the isomerization was also investigated. Both the activation and reaction free energy are stabilized by the presence of Mg2+, which is consistent with experimental results. Water solvation reduces the activation free energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Of the patients with glucose transporter 1 deficiency syndrome (GLUT1-DS), 90% have a pathologic gait. Ataxic-spastic and ataxic gaits are seen in 35% of patients each. A ketogenic diet and modified Atkins diet (MAD) are effective therapy in GLUT1-DS in terms of both the seizures and movement disorder. A three-dimensional gait analysis (3DGA) system can be used to evaluate gait quantitatively using spatiotemporal data and gait kinematics. We performed 3DGA in three ambulatory patients with GLUT1-DS to evaluate the characteristics of their gait pathology, and we compared the gait variables before and after enhancing the MAD in one patient.Methods: After examination by pediatric neurologists and pediatric orthopedic surgeons, 3DGA was performed. We assessed walking speed, step length, step width, gait variability, Gait Deviation Index (GDI), Gait Profile Score (GPS), and Gait Variable Score (GVS).Results: All three patients had a low GDI and high GPS, comprehensive indices of gait pathology. The unstable gait pattern featured a wide step width in one patient and high gait variability in two patients. In the sagittal plane, the patients had increased GVSs in the knee and ankle joints due to excessive knee flexion or extension and excessive ankle plantarflexion. In the horizontal plane, the patients had increased GVSs in the pelvis, hips, and foot due to excessive rotation during walking. After enhancing the MAD, GDI, GPS, and GVSs improved.Conclusions: 3DGA has potential for quantifying the characteristics of gait pathology and its improvement with dietary therapy in patients with GLUT1-DS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data were generated using Spearman's rank correlation (GDI and FTSST) coefficient analyses. Data were generated using Spearman's rank correlation (GDI and FTSST) coefficient analyses. FTSST, five-times-sit-to-stand test; GDI, Gait Deviation Index; GMFCS, Gross Motor Function Classification System. [Extracted from the article]

This study examined the association between Gait Deviation Index (GDI) and the five-times-sit-to-stand test (FTSST) or gait speed results, which represent mobility and muscle strength of the lower extremities in ambulatory children with Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level I and II spastic cerebral palsy. In this cross-sectional, observational study, three-dimensional gait analysis data were obtained during gait trials to evaluate the GDI in 35 children (age 5–16 years) with spastic palsy. Motor function was evaluated using FTSST and gait speed. Gross motor function was evaluated using GMFCS. Children with GMFCS level II spastic cerebral palsy demonstrated lower GDI (p < 0.001) and poorer FTSST (p = 0.031) than those with GMFCS level I spastic cerebral palsy. Correlation analysis showed that FTSST results were significantly correlated with GDI (r = −0.624; p < 0.001). Motor function may be important for the maintenance of gait quality in patients with GMFCS level I and II spastic cerebral palsy and should not be ignored. In conclusion, reduction in gait impairment may affect the values of FTSST and GDI in patients with spastic cerebral palsy who can ambulate without an assistive device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Proprioceptive function declines with age, leading to falls, pain, and difficulties in performing activities of daily living among older adults. Although individuals with low back pain (LBP) exhibit decreased lumbosacral proprioception in various postures, the mechanism by which reduced proprioceptive function causes LBP remains uncertain. Vibratory stimulation may enhance proprioceptive function; however, its efficacy in treating LBP has not been investigated. Thus, we investigated the feasibility of improving proprioceptive function and its effect on alleviating chronic LBP in older patients through targeted vibratory therapy (TVT) administration. Methods: This single arm designed trial included older patients aged >65 years with non-specific chronic LBP. TVT involved applying vibratory stimulation, matching the frequency of dysfunctional receptors, for 1 min daily over 14 days to activate proprioceptors; patients performed TVT three times daily at home. In cases of reduced proprioceptive function at multiple sites, TVT was aimed at the lowest frequency band value. LBP and proprioceptive function were evaluated at 2 weeks after TVT and at 2 weeks after the end of TVT in patients with declined proprioception in the trunk or lower extremities. Results: Overall, 56 patients with chronic LBP were enrolled; 32 patients were recruited for treatment based on a proprioceptive dysfunction diagnosis and 24 patients were recruited with a normal diagnosis with no significant differences observed between the two sets of patients in sarcopenia-related factors and clinical proprioception-related characteristics. No patient had any adverse events. Two weeks after TVT, the numerical pain rating scale score improved to <3 points in 78.1% of patients, with 73.1% of patients achieving a score of ≤ 3 points. Proprioceptive function improved in 81.3% of cases, and engagement in activities of daily living improved significantly. Conclusions: TVT demonstrated efficacy in improving proprioception and alleviating LBP in older patients with impaired proprioceptive function without affecting non-targeted proprioceptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

GTP-cyclohydrolase 1-deficient dopa-responsive dystonia (GTPCH1-deficient DRD) typically presents in childhood with dystonic posture of the lower extremities, gait impairment, and a significant response to levodopa. We performed three-dimensional gait analysis (3DGA) to quantitatively assess the gait characteristics and changes associated with levodopa treatment in patients with GTPCH1-deficient DRD. Three levodopa-treated patients with GTPCH1-deficient DRD underwent 3DGA twice, longitudinally. Changes were evaluated for cadence; gait speed; step length; gait deviation index; kinematic data of the pelvis, hip, knee, and ankle joints; and foot progression angle. Levodopa treatment increased the cadence and gait speed in one of three patients and increased the gait deviation index in two of three patients. The kinematic data for each joint exhibited different characteristics, with some improvement observed in each of the three patients. There was consistent marked improvement in the abnormal foot progression angle; one patient had excessive external rotation of one foot, another had excessive bilateral internal rotation, and the other had excessive internal rotation of one foot and excessive external rotation of the opposite foot, all of which improved. The 3DGA findings demonstrate that the gait pathology and recovery process in GTPCH1-deficient DRD vary from case to case. Changes in the foot progression angle and gait deviation index can enable the effects of treatment to be more easily evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Individuals with Dravet syndrome (DS) exhibit progressive gait disturbance. No quantitative studies have been conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of medication for gait disturbance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of levodopa for pathological gait in people with DS using three‐dimensional gait analysis (3DGA). Methods: Nine individuals with DS, ages 6–20 years, participated in a crossover study of levodopa and were randomly assigned to the levodopa precedence or no levodopa precedence group. Levodopa/carbidopa hydrate was prescribed at a dose of 5 mg/kg/day (body weight <60 kg) or 300 mg/day (body weight ≥60 kg). The medication was taken for 4–6 weeks (4‐week washout period). 3DGA was performed three times before the study, with and without levodopa. A mixed‐effects model was used to evaluate the effectiveness of levodopa. The primary outcome was the change in the Gait Deviation Index (GDI). In addition, spatiotemporal gait parameters, 6‐minute walking distance (6MD), and balance were evaluated. The correlation between the effectiveness of levodopa and age or gait performance before starting levodopa was analyzed. Results: Levodopa improved the GDI by 4.2 points, (p =.029), 6MD by 52 m (p =.002), and balance test result by 4.1 mm (p =.011) in participants with DS. No severe adverse events were observed, with the exception of one participant, who exhibited fever and consequently stopped taking levodopa. Levodopa was more effective in younger participants with a higher baseline gait performance. Significance: Our randomized crossover trial showed that levodopa has the potential to improve gait disturbance in people with DS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The pattern of strain distribution in the proximal femur changes following total hip arthroplasty (THA) and decreases in bone mineral density (BMD) occur around the stem following cemented and uncemented THA. We herein prospectively examined changes in BMD for 3 years after THA with a cemented Exeter universal stem.Methods: One hundred and sixty five hips from 150 patients who underwent unilateral THA were included as a cohort. Our patients included 20 men (20 hips) and 130 women (145 hips) with a mean age of 63.9 years. BMD was measured 2 weeks postoperatively (baseline) and 3, 6 12, 18, 24, 30, and 36 months (3 years) after surgery using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) on the lumbar spine and proximal femur of the operated side according to the Gruen zone classification. We quantified longitudinal changes in BMD for more than 3 years after surgery and detected several factors which affected these changes.Results: In the first year, BMD in the most proximal femur showed a 5.5% reduction at the lateral side (zone 1) and 13% reduction at the medial side (zone 7), with no significant BMD reductions being observed thereafter. BMD reductions at 3 years were the most apparent at the proximal medial part of the femur (zone 7; -10.3%), while BMD ratio change in zone 1 was over the baseline (+2.9%). Especially in zone 7, the BMD ratio decreased with female, decreases in weight, decreases in height, decreases in BMI, and increases in age at the time of surgery.Conclusions: Bone restoration is expected with a cemented Exeter universal stem. Male patients, a younger age, a high body weight, being tall, and a high BMI were identified as factors associated with the restoration of BMD in proximal femur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have revealed several deficits in anticipatory postural adjustments (APAs) during voluntary movements while standing in individuals with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy (BSCP). However, it remains unclear whether compensatory postural adjustments (CPAs) during movement increase to compensate for APA deficits. We investigated the anticipatory and compensatory activities of postural muscles during voluntary movement while standing in adolescents and young adults with BSCP. The study included seven participants with BSCP with level II on the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), seven with BSCP with level III on the GMFCS, and fourteen healthy controls. The participants stood on a force platform and lifted a load under two weight conditions (light and heavy). The electromyographic activities of postural muscles were analyzed at time intervals typical for APAs and CPAs. The percentage of muscle activity in the CPA time epoch against the total muscle activity during the APA and CPA time epochs was higher in the two BSCP groups than in the control group. In the control group, a load-related modulation was observed only in the APA time epoch, whereas in the BSCP-II group, the load-related increase was observed in both the APA and CPA time epochs. No load-related modulations were observed in the BSCP-III group. These findings suggest that adolescents and young adults with BSCP exhibit an increase in the relative contribution of CPAs during voluntary movement and that there exist severity-related differences in the modulation of APAs and CPAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Susceptibility-weighted imaging is a novel high-spatial-resolution three-dimensional gradient-echo magnetic resonance imaging technique with phase postprocessing that accentuates the paramagnetic properties of blood products. The use of susceptibility-weighted imaging for epileptic focus localization in the acute stage of encephalopathy in a child has not been documented. Patients: We report three pediatric patients with status epilepticus in the setting of fever, in whom susceptibility-weighted imaging showed transient prominence of the focal venous vasculature. Results: Conventional cranial T1- and T2-weighted images and diffusion-weighted images showed no abnormalities. The prominence of the focal venous vasculature in these patients, as demonstrated by susceptibility-weighted imaging, was consistent with the epileptic focuses suggested by both clinical symptoms and electroencephalograph findings and resolved completely without neurological sequelae in all patients. Conclusions: Susceptibility-weighted imaging may facilitate assessing epileptic focus localization in the acute stage of encephalopathy in children. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Some ash particles in solid fuels adhere on heat exchanger tube surfaces inside coal and/or biomass combustion boilers. The authors have already proposed a surface treatment on tubes, using a thermal spraying technique, to reduce ash deposition. Understanding reduction mechanisms of the ash deposition is necessary to evaluate effects of the surface treatment technique on the reduction of ash deposition. The reduction mechanisms of the ash deposition were elucidated due to physical and chemical aspects, measuring adhesion forces between the ash particles and some alloy specimens of the tube at high temperature under the simulated boiler conditions. As a result, the adhesion force increased with time and depended on both the ash types and the alloy specimens. The thermal spraying of Ni-alloy, in particular, could reduce the adhesion force. Moreover interface reactions between the ash particles and the alloy specimen played an effective role in increasing the adhesion force, alkali metal compounds in the ash samples also related to an increase of the adhesion force. Fe, which was one of the main alloy elements, diffused into the ash deposition layer beyond the interface. This observation result suggested that the interface reactions of the ash particles with the alloy caused an increase of the adhesion force. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In order to control the ash deposition, a surface treatment of the tubes, using a thermal spraying technique, was proposed in this study. First, adhesion forces between ash pellets and several alloy specimens were measured, using a tensile testing machine, to evaluate validity of this technique for a long period. The result shows that a Ni alloy as the thermal spraying material could reduce the adhesion force. Second, the reduction mechanisms of ash deposition were elucidated, observing the interfaces between the ash pellets and the alloy specimens by a scanning election microscope with energy dispersive spectroscopy. As a result, diffusion of Fe compounds in the tube could be depressed by the Ni alloy coated on the tube surface. Finally, field tests of this technique were also carried out in some practical multi-fuels fired boilers, so that this technique showed a good performance, especially for clinker. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The effects of aflatoxin (AF), a hepatotoxic agent and the strongest carcinogen in nature, on polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) chemotaxis and chemiluminescence (CL) were studied. Luminol-dependent CL activity, which reflects the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) from PMNs, was up-regulated to ∼150% when PMNs were treated with 0.05ng/ml of AFB1 upon stimulation with N-formyl-methionine-leucine-phenylalanine (fMLP) or zymosan. On the other hand, PMN CL activity was down-regulated to ∼25% of the control when PMNs were treated with 50ng/ml of AFB1 upon stimulation with zymosan. The effect of AFB1 on PMN chemotaxis was also investigated using the Boyden chamber method. The chemotactic ability of PMNs when interleukin (IL)-8 was used as a chemoattractant was inhibited in a dose-dependent manner at AFB1 concentrations of >10ng/ml. In reverse transcriptase (RT)-PCR analysis, gene expression levels of CXC chemokine receptor (CXCR)1/2, whose ligands are IL-8, granulocyte chemotactic protein (GCP)-2, neutrophil attractant-activation protein (NAP)-2, and epithelial neutrophil-activating protein (ENA)-78, which regulate PMN chemotaxis, were also down-regulated in a dose-dependent manner by 50ng/ml AFB1. mRNA expression levels of CXCR1/2 were down-regulated to ∼85% of that in the controls when PMNs were treated with 100ng/ml AFB1. These results suggest that a high concentration of AFB1 reduces the chemotactic ability of PMNs via the CXCR1/2 cascade indirectly. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study sets forth a method to calculate the passenger benefits of an international airport project and assesses the passenger benefits brought about by two international airport projects. An international airport project mainly increases the number of flights and the possibility of determining convenient timetables. It does not significantly decrease the flight time of international travel. Thus, the user benefits brought about by an international airport project cannot be expressed by the conventional concept of ‘traveling time’, which is the term generally used. In this study, the ‘Expected Value of Traveling Time’ and ‘Expected Value of Generalized Cost’ are presented as indexes to evaluate improvements in convenience brought about by international airport projects. The passenger benefits of two airport projects in Japan are measured by consumer surplus calculated from the demand function using these indexes. These indexes are accurately calculated taking into consideration factors such as scheduling connections between domestic and international transport, and so enable a grasp not only of reductions in flight time, but also of passenger benefits resulting from international airport projects, such as increases in the number of flights and reductions in the time required to make transfers during domestic travel. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase (PAF-AH) is an enzyme that catalyzes hydrolysis of PAF and is important for regulation of serum PAF concentration. Twenty-seven patients with hyperbililubinemic hepatobiliary diseases (eight patients with liver cirrhosis, five with acute hepatitis and 14 with obstructive cholestasis) were studied. Serum PAF-AH activity was elevated in hyperbilirubinemic condition associated with liver cirrhosis, obstructive cholestasis or acute hepatitis. There was a significant correlation of serum PAF-AH activity with serum cholesterol (r=0.891, P=0.014 in liver cirrhosis, r=0.813, P=0.002 in obstructive cholestasis) or low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (r=0.771, P=0.007 in obstructive cholestasis). Serum PAF-AH activity/cholesterol ratio and PAF-AH activity/LDL cholesterol ratio were elevated in the three types of hyperbilirubinemic liver disease. LDL cholesterol increased and PAF-AH/LDL cholesterol ratio decreased in acute hepatitis after remission. On the other hand, LDL cholesterol decreased and PAF-AH/LDL cholesterol ratio did not change after treatment in obstructive cholestasis. These findings suggest that, though serum LDL is a factor influencing serum PAF-AH activity in obstructive jaundice, other factors, i.e. reduced biliary PAF-AH excretion, may also influence serum PAF-AH activity in hyperbilirubinemic hepatobiliary diseases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

SiO2/poly-Si/SiO2 double-barrier structures fabricated by radio-frequency magnetron sputtering are shown to exhibit negative differential resistance (NDR) that is attributed to resonant tunneling (RT) at low temperatures. An annealing process conducted after the multilayer deposition is found to effectively yield stable NDR. Five percent of all of the fabricated devices exhibit clear NDR below 50 K. Other devices with the same multilayered structure exhibit staircase-like current-voltage curves caused by the Coulomb blockade (CB) or by interplay between the RT and CB. The requisites of the poly-Si layer microstructures for the realization of stable RT are elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been shown that nanocrystalline silicon films can be grown from silane gas without hydrogen dilution by electron-beam excited plasma chemical vapor deposition (EBEP-CVD). A high density of atomic hydrogen, which is derived from the dissociation of silane molecule, is confirmed in the plasma by optical emission spectroscopy. This fact is thought to be a reason for the growth of nanocrystalline silicon films without the introduction of hydrogen gas. Transmission electron spectroscopy reveals that crystallites are not distributed uniformly, but rather form the mosaic-like clusters in an amorphous silicon matrix in the film. Hydrogen gas is introduced into the EBEP-CVD silicon film growth so as to study the effects of the hydrogen gas. The growth rate increases proportionally to the hydrogen flow rate, and it is about 2.5 times greater than when no hydrogen gas is introduced. Also, a decrease in both the hydrogen content and the density of dangling bonds in the film is confirmed. These results imply that the generation of dangling bonds is suppressed by the introduction of hydrogen. The rate constants of dissociation reaction of silane molecules in the EBEP are estimated, and the change in density of radicals in the plasma by introducing hydrogen gas is calculated. A growth model is proposed that assumes the sticking coefficient of SiH[sub 3] precursor radical increases in proportion to atomic hydrogen flux. Using the calculation results and the model, the effects are explained to be due to an increase in the contribution ratio of SiH[sub 3] radicals to the growth, on account of the increase in the introduced hydrogen gas flow rate. © 2000 American Institute of Physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the medical condition of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor in the cervical spine with multiple nevus cell nevi.

Aim Bioelectrical impedance analysis has been reported to have high reliability and accuracy in assessing body composition. However, equations for estimating appendicular skeletal muscle mass are population-specific, and few have been developed for older Japanese adults. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to develop and validate an estimate equation for appendicular skeletal muscle mass using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Methods A total of 250 older adults aged 65 years and older participated in this study. Appendicular skeletal muscle mass was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and bioelectrical resistance was measured using a multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analyzer. Multiple regression analysis was applied to derive sex-specific estimation formulae using bioelectrical impedance analysis, and a Bland- Altman analysis was used to test agreement. Results The cross-validation results showed that the slopes and intercepts of the regression lines were approximately one and zero, respectively, and the coefficients of determination and standard errors of the estimate of the newly developed equations were similar between the two groups. Thus, the single sex-specific equations were developed using all participants as follows. Men: appendicular skeletal muscle mass = 0.197 × (impedance index) + 0.179 × (weight) − 0.019 ( R2 = 0.87, standard error of the estimate = 0.98 kg). Women: appendicular skeletal muscle mass = 0.221 × (impedance index) + 0.117 × (weight) + 0.881 ( R2 = 0.89, standard error of the estimate = 0.81 kg). Conclusion These new equations offer a valid option for assessing appendicular skeletal muscle mass in older Japanese adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 851-857. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine whether the combined factors of physical performance, depressive symptoms and cognitive status are significantly associated with a history of falling in community-dwelling elderly. We performed a cross-sectional community-based survey, the OSHPE, from August 2011 to February 2012. In total, 5104 community-dwelling older adults aged 65 years and older (mean age 72.0) participated in the OSHPE. Participants underwent a grip strength (GS) test, chair stand test (CST), Timed Up & Go (TUG) test, Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Of the 4481 participants who met our requirements, 645 (14.4%) participants reported falling at least once in the past year. In a signal detection analysis (SDA), we found that the combination of GDS (≥6 points) and TUG (≥10.6s) had the highest fall rate (36.4%), and the combination of GDS (<6 points) and CST (<11.1s) had the lowest fall rate (11.7%). The highest fall rate group had a significantly higher odds ratio (OR) compared with the lowest fall rate group after adjusting for other potentially confounding variables [OR 3.12 (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.08–4.68) p <0.001]. The combination of depressive symptoms, TUG, and CST performance was strongly associated with a history of falling in community-dwelling elderly. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Objectives: Few studies have reported the relationship between fear of falling (FoF) and mild and global cognitive impairment in community-dwelling older adults. We aimed to determine whether the status of cognitive impairment affects the prevalence of FoF in community-dwelling older adults. Study design: Cross-sectional study among 4474 community-dwelling older adults who participated in the Obu Study of Health Promotion for the Elderly. Main outcome measures: Participants underwent cognitive tests and were divided into three groups: cognitive healthy, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and global cognitive impairment (GCI). FoF and related variables, such as fall history, physical function, and depression, were also investigated. Results: The prevalence of FoF was significantly different by group (p <0.001; healthy: 43.6%, MCI: 50.6%, GCI: 40.6%). Logistic regression analysis showed that GCI (odds ratio=0.63; 95% confidence interval=0.526–0.76) was independently associated with FoF, after controlling for confounding factors. Older adults with GCI showed the lowest prevalence of FoF, although they had the lowest physical function comparing with the other groups (p <0.001). Conclusion: MCI and GCI in community-dwelling older adults affect the prevalence of FoF in a completely different manner. Further study is required to determine whether insensitivity to FoF with GCI increases the risk of falling in older adults. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aim Several operative definitions and screening methods for sarcopenia have been proposed in previous studies; however, the opinions of researchers still differ. We compared the prevalence of sarcopenia using two different algorithms: (i) the European working group on sarcopenia in older people ( EWGSOP)-suggested algorithm using gait speed as the first step; and (ii) the muscle mass and strength algorithm. Methods A population-based, cross-sectional survey of adults aged over 65 years was carried out. Data on a total of 4811 participants were available for analysis. Gait speed, grip strength and appendicular skeletal muscle mass were assessed to determine sarcopenia. Appendicular skeletal muscle mass was estimated from bioimpedance analysis measurements and expressed as skeletal muscle mass index. Grip strength and skeletal muscle mass index were considered to be low if they fell below the threshold of the lowest 20% of values measured in a subset of healthy subjects. We compared the prevalence rates of sarcopenia determined by the two algorithms. Results The prevalence rate of sarcopenia in a representative sample of older Japanese adults was 8.2% for men and 6.8% for women based on the EWGSOP algorithm. The two algorithms identified the same participants as sarcopenic, the only difference being the EWGSOP algorithm classified an additional seven participants (0.15%) into sarcopenia compared with the muscle mass and strength algorithm. Conclusion It is debatable whether inclusion of gait speed is necessary when screening for sarcopenia in community-dwelling older adults. Future research should examine the necessity of including gait speed in algorithms and the validity of cut-off values. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14 (Suppl. 1): 46-51. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: Preventive strategies for frailty and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are important for avoiding future functional decline and dementia in older adults. The purpose of this study was to use a population-based survey to ascertain the single and combined prevalence of frailty and MCI and to identify the relationships between frailty and MCI in older Japanese adults. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: General community. Participants: A total of 5104 older adults (aged 65 years or older, mean age 71 years) who were enrolled in the Obu Study of Health Promotion for the Elderly (OSHPE). Measurements: Each participant underwent detailed physical and cognitive testing to assess frailty and MCI. We considered the frailty phenotype to be characterized by limitations in 3 or more of the following 5 domains: mobility, strength, endurance, physical activity, and nutrition. Screening for MCI included a standardized personal interview, the Mini-Mental State Examination, and the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology-Functional Assessment Tool (NCGG-FAT), which included 8 tasks used to assess logical memory (immediate and delayed recognition), word list memory (immediate and delayed recall), attention and executive function (tablet version of Trail Making Test-part A and B), processing speed (tablet version of digit symbol substitution test), and visuospatial skill (figure selection). Results: The overall prevalence of frailty, MCI, and frailty and MCI combined was 11.3%, 18.8%, and 2.7%, respectively. We found significant relationships between frailty and MCI (the odds ratio adjusted for age, sex, and education was 2.0 (95% confidence interval 1.5–2.5). Conclusions: Using the OSHPE criteria, we found more participants with MCI than with frailty. The prevalence of frailty and MCI combined was 2.7% in our population. Future investigation is necessary to determine whether this population is at increased risk for disability or mortality. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Purpose. To assess the long-term effects of nilvadipine on the progression of central visual field defect in retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Methods. Patients with RP were randomly divided into a treated group receiving oral nilvadipine and a control group. Progression of RP was evaluated with MD slope and the average sensitivity of the central 2° (ACENT4). Results. The mean MD slopes were -0.55/-0.39 (right/left eyes, n = 19) dB/year in the treated group and -1.37/-1.15 (right/left eyes, n = 22) dB/year in the control group (P = 0.016/0.050, resp.). In both eyes, however, no statistical difference was observed between the two groups for the ACENT4 values. Conclusion. Although we confirmed that nilvadipine significantly retarded the progression of the average of MD value defects in the central 10°, it was not specific for the central 2° of the visual field in RP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the effects of nilvadipine on the progression of central visual field defect in retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Design: Prospective, randomized, nonmasked, single-center trial. Methods: Patients with RP were randomly divided into a treated group receiving oral nilvadipine at 4 mg/day for ≥30 months and a control group receiving tocopherol nicotinate at 300 mg/day, helenien at 15 mg/day or no medication for the same periods. Progression of RP was evaluated using the 10-2 SITA Fast Program of the Humphrey Visual Field Analyzer, and regression coefficients calculated from the time courses of mean deviation (MD slope) were compared between groups. Results: Nineteen patients in the treated group and 14 patients in the control group completed the follow-up for ≥30 months. The mean (±standard deviation) duration of observation was 48.8 ± 11.8 months (median 48 months, range 30-66 months) for the treated group and 49.2 ± 18.1 months (median 48 months, range 30-90 months) for the control group (p = 0.94). Mean (±standard error of the mean, SEM) regression coefficients of the averaged MD values for the initial 30 months were -0.35 ± 0.17 dB/year in the treated group and -0.75 ± 0.06 dB/year in the control group (p < 0.01). Mean (±SEM) MD slopes for total observational periods were -0.49 ± 0.17 dB/year in the treated group and -0.89 ± 0.16 dB/year in the control group (mean ± SEM, p = 0.042). Conclusion: Nilvadipine at 4 mg/day significantly retarded progression of central visual field defects in RP in this small patient series. Copyright © 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Trehalose is a disaccharide which plays an important role in preserving cells from completely dehydrated circumstances. In this study, we investigated effects of trehalose on proliferative activity of fibroblasts and epithelial cells both in vitro and in vivo. As in vitro assessment, normal human dermal fibroblasts and normal human epidermal keratinocytes were cultured in media containing various concentrations of trehalose. Growth activities of cells were evaluated with MTT assay and diff-quick™ staining. Expressions of vimentin and α smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) changed by trehalose were semiquantitatively measured by Western blot. As an in vivo study, 5% or 10% trehalose was topically instilled onto rabbit eyes after simple conjunctival incision or trabeculectomy. Condition of the surgical wound was evaluated by morphologically and immunohistochemically using isolectin B4 and antibodies specific for vimentin and α-SMA. Intraocular pressures (IOPs) after trabeculectomy were compared between eyes treated with trehalose and 0.04% mitomycin C (MMC). Results obtained by in vitro experiments showed that growth activities of cultured fibroblasts and keratinocytes were inhibited by trehalose in a dose-dependent manner. Fibroblasts were strongly inhibited by trehalose concentrations ≧ 5% of trehalose, whereas keratinocytes were less inhibited compared to fibroblasts. Expressions of vimentin and α-SMA were reduced by trehalose. With in vivo experiments, postoperative application of trehalose resulted in less firm adhesion between conjunctiva and sclera compared to controls. Immunohistochemical studies showed reduced staining of isolectin B4, vimentin and α-SMA in conjunctival wounds treated by topical trehalose. Also, after trabeculectomy, IOP remained in a low range during instillation of topical trehalose solution. We concluded that trehalose has inhibitory effects on proliferation of fibroblasts and vascular tissues, partially due to inhibition of transformation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts in wound tissues. The present results imply that trehalose can be a potential agent for preventing postoperative fibrous scar formation after ocular surgery such as glaucoma filtration surgery. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Commercial single crystal silicon wafers and amorphous silicon films piled on single crystal silicon wafers were irradiated with a femtosecond pulsed laser and a nanosecond pulsed laser at irradiation intensities between 1017 W/cm2 and 109 W/cm2. In the single crystal silicon substrate, the irradiated area was changed to polycrystalline silicon and the piled silicon around the irradiated area has spindly column structures constructed of polycrystalline and amorphous silicon. In particular, in the case of the higher irradiation intensity of 1016 W/cm2, the irradiated area was oriented to the same crystal direction as the substrate. In the case of the lower irradiation intensity of 108 W/cm2, only amorphous silicon was observed around the irradiated area, even when the target was single crystal silicon. In contrast, only amorphous silicon particles were found to be piled on the amorphous silicon film, irrespective of the intensity and pulse duration. Three-dimensional thermal diffusion equation for the piled particles on the substrate was solved by using the finite difference methods. The results of our heat-flow simulation of the piled particles almost agree with the experimental results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]