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Given a hypergraph H ⊆ 2 V on a finite base set V , a vertex v ∈ V is called the private vertex of a hyperedge H ∈ H if H is the only hyperedge of H containing it. A hypergraph is called irredundant if every edge of it has a private vertex, and it is called redundant otherwise. Motivated by some graph domination problems, Uno (2015) posed the problems of generating all minimal redundant and maximal irredundant subhypergraphs of a given hypergraph. Here we prove that these are NP-hard generation problems, and present positive results for certain special cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study aimed to identify the genetic risk factors from donors or recipients that contribute to postliver transplantation (LT) steatotic liver disease (SLD), focusing on the genetic risk score (GRS) based on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in SLD patients. Methods: This retrospective study included 55 Japanese SLD recipients and their respective donors. Genotyping of PNPLA3, TM6SF2, and HSD17B13 was undertaken, and the combined GRS was calculated. The relationship between the GRS and the incidence of posttransplant SLD was also evaluated. Results: The SLD recipients had a high prevalence of post‐LT graft steatosis/steatohepatitis (76.4% and 58.2%, respectively). Although the recipients had a high frequency of risk alleles, there was no relationship between the number of risk alleles for each SNP and the incidence of posttransplant SLD. In contrast, an increased number of risk alleles for any SNP in the donor was correlated with high incidence rates of both post‐LT steatosis and steatohepatitis. A multivariable analysis showed that a high donor GRS was an independent risk factor for graft steatosis (odds ratio 8.77; 95% CI, 1.94–52.94; p = 0.009). Similarly, a high donor GRS was an independent risk factor (odds ratio 6.76; 95% CI, 1.84–30.78; p = 0.007) for post‐LT graft steatohepatitis. Conclusions: Donor risk alleles of PNPLA3, TM6SF2, and HSD17B13, rather than recipient risk alleles, have been implicated in the development of posttransplant SLD. The combination of these donor risk alleles into a GRS could predict the development of posttransplant SLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperate-zone cicadas are characterised among insects by their long-lived underground nymphal stages, which live for 5–20 years or more. Here we report the extensive occurrence of above-ground predation on eggs and first-instar nymphs of the common Japanese brown cicada, Graptopsaltria nigrofuscata, by colonial ants in a city park. Predation on eggs and first-instar nymphs by ants may be a major source of above-ground mortality rate in a population of this Japanese cicada species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We evaluated the electromyography (EMG)-based neuromuscular monitoring detectability of our novel stimulating electrode attachment method compared to the original Nihon–Kohden (Tokyo, Japan) attachment method. Methods: This single-center randomized, double-blind, controlled pilot study enrolled 32 patients aged ≥ 18 years, undergoing scheduled laparoscopic surgery. The EMG electrode NM-345Y™ was attached to one forearm using the Nihon–Kohden method (Pattern N–K) and the other forearm using our novel method (Pattern Cross). The allocation to each attachment method was determined post-randomization. In Pattern Cross, the NM-345Y™ was attached such that the line connecting the anode and cathode crosses the ulnar nerve. Patients received 0.9 mg/kg rocuronium after calibration with the forearm in 90-degree supination. Following tracheal intubation, the forearm was positioned in 0-degree pronation. Intraoperatively, 0.2 mg/kg rocuronium was administered if the train-of-four (TOF) count one persisted for 1 min on either side. Post-surgery, the forearm position was returned to 90-degree supination, and rocuronium was antagonized with sugammadex. TOF and post-tetanic count (PTC) were simultaneously measured bilaterally every 15 s and 5 min, respectively, from post-calibration to tracheal extubation. Results: The time to first PTC appearance was significantly shorter by 33 min in the Pattern Cross group than in the Pattern N–K group (95% Confidence interval: 1–66, p = 0.043). Following sugammadex administration, TOF ratios ≥ 0.9 were achieved in 72% of patients in the Pattern N–K group and 97% of those in the Pattern Cross group (p = 0.025). Conclusions: Crossing the line connecting the anode and cathode with the ulnar nerve stabilizes EMG-based neuromuscular monitoring detectability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low Mg diffusivity in solid-state oxides is an obstacle for the development of materials for Mg ion batteries, which are expected to have high capacity. In this study, we focused on NASICON-type and β-iron sulfate-type Mg2xHf1-xNb(PO4)3 that exhibit relatively high Mg ionic conductivity and investigated the Hf/Nb configuration and composition dependence of phase stability and ion conductivity by atomistic simulation using neural network potentials. The calculations show that the NASICON-type structure is slightly more stable and has higher Mg ionic conductivity than that of the β-iron sulfate-type. The effect of the Hf/Nb configuration was investigated and showed that the ordered stable structure had much lower ionic conductivity than the disordered structure. Furthermore, as the Mg ion concentration increased, the ionic conductivity increased monotonically at low concentrations but tended to converge to a constant value above a certain concentration. The saturation of the ionic conductivity despite increasing the Mg concentration may be due to the trapping effect of the Mg ions caused by the Hf vacancies as well as the Hf/Nb arrangement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundObjectiveMethodsResultsConclusionVarus thrust (VT) is a frequently reported abnormal gait pattern in patients with medial knee osteoarthritis (KOA). VT is important to prevent KOA progression. However, there is no consensus on the relationship between VT and foot alignment and flexibility, although it has been reported that patients with KOA have pronated foot.In this study, we examined the relationship between VT, foot alignment, and flexibility in patients with KOA.Twenty patients with unilateral KOA were included in this study (mean age: 71.5 ± 4.7 years). KOA severity ranged from grade III (8 patients) to grade IV (12 patients) based on the Kellgren-Lawrence classification. Gait analysis using inertial sensors was performed to determine the difference between the VT of KOA side and the contralateral side without symptoms. The correlations between VT, foot alignment, and flexibility were also analyzed.VT was significantly greater on the side with KOA than on the contralateral side without KOA (d = 1.09, p = .002). VT was not significantly correlated with foot alignment but was significantly correlated with the arch stiffness index, which indicates foot flexibility (r = 0.642, p = .003).This study suggests that foot flexibility may play a more significant role than foot alignment in addressing VT in patients with KOA. When performing physical therapy for VT, evaluating foot flexibility in addition to foot alignment may help reduce this condition. Further studies with larger sample sizes and more detailed statistical analyses are needed to validate these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Control of the charge state of the nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center is crucial because of its instability and its transitions between the negative (NV–) and neutral (NV0) NV charge states under laser irradiation In this study, we fabricated an n-i-n junction, with an i-layer sandwiched between two phosphorus-doped n-layers; then, we measured the charge state of NV centers under steady state and laser irradiation in a known band structure where the Fermi energy changes gradually. The steady-state charge state measured by a nondestructive single shot exhibited stable NV– and NV0 signals when the Fermi level was even slightly above and below the transition level, respectively. This result indicates that the charge state can be significantly stabilized through band engineering. Both charge-state populations were observed only when the Fermi level was close to the transition level. Under continuous green laser irradiation, the ratio of NV– measured by the photoluminescence spectra changed gradually with the Fermi level in the depletion layer because of the balance between excitation from the laser and the supply of charge from the band. This outcome agrees reasonably with the calculated bands. Furthermore, we measured the PL spectra of the ensemble NV centers and discovered that their charge state can be well-controlled, as in the single NV center. The charge state of the i-layer at the interface can be stabilized by depositing a thin n-layer on the surface. These results would contribute significantly to improve sensor performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Dementia affects more than 55 million people worldwide. Use of restraints for hospitalized older adults with dementia is a social issue that should be addressed systematically and should not depend on the characteristics of nurses. This study reviewed the literature on organizational factors associated with reducing use of restraints in older adults with dementia admitted to acute care hospitals. Methods: A scoping review was performed. Three databases were searched for papers that met our eligibility criteria. Factors related to restraint reduction were extracted, and results were deduced. Through inductive analysis, subthemes were categorized according to similarities and differences, which were then integrated into broader themes. Results: Sixteen studies were eligible for inclusion. The prevalence of restraints ranged from 5.1% to 80.0% depending on how the meaning of restraint was interpreted. The most common indications for restraints were history of falls and fall risk. Interdisciplinary screening for restraints was associated with reduced prevalence of restraints, with a 0.18‐fold (confidence interval [CI]: 0.12–0.24) reduction through use of a restraint decision flowchart and a 0.76‐fold (CI: 0.63–0.92) reduction through consultation with a psychiatrist. Interdisciplinary members included nurses, physicians, clinical psychologists, pharmacists, respiratory therapists, and therapists. Conclusions: Research is needed to introduce and develop an interdisciplinary restraint decision‐making system and to test its effectiveness. Important factors in implementing alternatives to restraints are the harmful effects of restraints, expertise in dementia, regular education on alternative methods, an inpatient environment that ensures patient safety, and the development of human resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternating‐rich copolymer of vinylboronic acid pinacol ester (VBpin) and maleic anhydride (MAH) was found to catalyze direct dehydrative esterification of carboxylic acid and alcohol. The key to the catalytic function is the activation of the MAH unit by the neighboring Lewis acidic boron directly connected to the backbone through the formation of five‐membered ring. The effects of the side‐chain cooperation were clarified through comparisons with the polymers having similar structures and a conventional titanium catalyst as well as the analyses of reactions with carboxylic acid or alcohol. The catalytic activity was enhanced as the molecular weight was higher, which is owing to the structural feature that boron is directly attached to the backbone. The cooperative catalysis is of interest because of its conceptual similarity with enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternating‐rich copolymer of vinylboronic acid pinacol ester (VBpin) and maleic anhydride (MAH) was found to catalyze direct dehydrative esterification of carboxylic acid and alcohol. The key to the catalytic function is the activation of the MAH unit by the neighboring Lewis acidic boron directly connected to the backbone through the formation of five‐membered ring. The effects of the side‐chain cooperation were clarified through comparisons with the polymers having similar structures and a conventional titanium catalyst as well as the analyses of reactions with carboxylic acid or alcohol. The catalytic activity was enhanced as the molecular weight was higher, which is owing to the structural feature that boron is directly attached to the backbone. The cooperative catalysis is of interest because of its conceptual similarity with enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of electron transport and n‐type materials is still largely dominated by a limited number of organic semiconductors, with fullerenes at the forefront. In contrast, substantial progress has been made in developing hole transport and p‐type materials. Therefore, expanding the range of electron acceptors, making them solution‐processable, and elucidating their structural arrangement by X‐ray crystallography is essential. We synthesised 2,2'‐bi‐(5,6,11,12‐tetraazanaphthacene) (bi‐TANC) and its triptycene end‐capped derivative, 2,2′‐bi(8,13‐dihydro‐8,13‐[1,2]benzenonaphtho‐5,6,15,16‐tetraazanaphthacene) (bi‐TpTANC), as electron acceptors. Bi‐TANC exhibits a herringbone‐like crystal packing with intermolecular π–π overlap, which is observed in typical organic n‐type semiconductors. However, it showed poor solubility, similar to larger acenes. In contrast, bi‐TpTANC exhibited favourable solubility, and its electrochemistry in solution was investigated. In the cyclic voltammogram of bi‐TpTANC, reversible redox waves corresponding to 3‐step/4‐electron transfer were observed at −0.795 V (1e−), −0.927 V (1e−), and −1.44 V (2e−) as half‐wave potentials. The redox wave associated with the two‐electron transfer on the negative low‐potential side indicates the presence of through‐bond charge delocalisation in the monoanionic state. Furthermore, the LUMO level of bi‐TpTANC is −4.1 eV, which indicates its potential as a promising air‐stable n‐type material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of new technologies opens new avenues in the research field. Gene knockout is a key method for analyzing gene function in mice. Currently, conditional gene knockout strategies are employed to examine temporal and spatial gene function. However, phenotypes are sometimes not observed because of the time required for depletion due to the long half‐life of the target proteins. Protein knockdown using an improved auxin‐inducible degron system, AID2, overcomes such difficulties owing to rapid and efficient target depletion. We observed depletion of AID‐tagged proteins within a few to several hours by a simple intraperitoneal injection of the auxin analog, 5‐Ph‐IAA, which is much shorter than the time required for target depletion using conditional gene knockout. Importantly, the loss of protein is reversible, making protein knockdown useful to measure the effects of transient loss of protein function. Here, we also established several mouse lines useful for AID2‐medicated protein knockdown, which include knock‐in mouse lines in the ROSA26 locus; one expresses TIR1(F74G), and the other is the reporter expressing AID‐mCherry. We also established a germ‐cell‐specific TIR1 line and confirmed the protein knockdown specificity. In addition, we introduced an AID tag to an endogenous protein, DCP2 via the CAS9‐mediated gene editing method. We confirmed that the protein was effectively eliminated by TIR1(F74G), which resulted in the similar phenotype observed in knockout mouse within 20 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SARS-CoV-2 belongs to the family Coronaviridae and carries a single-stranded positive-sense RNA genome. During coronavirus (CoV) replication, defective or defective interfering RNAs that lack a large portion of the genome often emerge. These defective RNAs typically carry the necessary RNA elements that are required for replication and packaging. We identified the minimum requirement of the 5′ proximal region necessary for viral RNA replication by using artificially generated SARS-CoV-2 minigenomes. The minigenomes consist of the 5′-proximal region, an open reading frame (ORF) that encodes a fusion protein consisting of the N-terminal of viral NSP1 and a reporter gene, and the 3′ untranslated region of the SARS-CoV-2 genome. We used a modified SARS-CoV-2 variant to support replication of the minigenomes. A minigenome carrying the 5′ proximal 634 nucleotides replicated, whereas those carrying shorter than 634 nucleotides did not, demonstrating that the entire 265 nt-long 5′ untranslated region and N-terminal portion of the NSP1 coding region are required for the minigenome replication. Minigenome RNAs carrying a specific amino acid substitution or frame shift insertions in the partial NSP1 coding sequence abrogated minigenome replication. Introduction of synonymous mutations in the minigenome RNAs also affected the replication efficiency of the minigenomes. These data suggest that the expression of the N-terminal portion of NSP1 and the primary sequence of the 5′ proximal 634 nucleotides are important for minigenome replication. IMPORTANCE SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, is highly transmissible and continues to have a significant impact on public health and the global economy. While several vaccines mitigate the severe consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection, mutant viruses with reduced reactivity to current vaccines continue to emerge and circulate. This study aimed to identify the minimal 5′ proximal region of SARS-CoV-2 genomic RNA required for SARS-CoV-2 defective RNA replication and investigate the importance of an ORF encoded in these defective RNAs. Identifying cis-acting replication signals of SARS-CoV-2 genomic RNA is critical for the development of antivirals that target these signals. Additionally, replication-competent defective RNAs can serve as therapeutic reagents to interfere with SARS-CoV-2 replication. Our findings provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 RNA replication and the development of reagents that suppress SARS-CoV-2 replication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancers are short segments of regulatory DNA that control when and in which cell‐type genes should be turned on in response to a variety of extrinsic and intrinsic signals. At the molecular level, enhancers serve as a genomic scaffold that recruits sequence‐specific transcription factors and co‐activators to facilitate transcription from linked promoters. However, it remains largely unclear how enhancers communicate with appropriate target promoters in the context of higher‐order genome topology. In this review, we discuss recent progress in our understanding of the functional interplay between enhancers, genome topology, and the molecular properties of transcription machineries in gene regulation. We suggest that the activities of transcription hubs are highly regulated through the dynamic rearrangement of enhancer‐promoter and promoter‐promoter connectivity during animal development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic maps are fundamental resources for linkage and association studies. A fine‐scale genetic map can be constructed by inferring historical recombination events from the genome‐wide structure of linkage disequilibrium—a non‐random association of alleles among loci—by using population‐scale sequencing data. We constructed a fine‐scale genetic map and identified recombination hotspots from 10 092 551 bi‐allelic high‐quality autosomal markers segregating among 150 unrelated Japanese individuals whose genotypes were determined by high‐coverage (30×) whole‐genome sequencing, and the genotype quality was carefully controlled by using their parents' and offspring's genotypes. The pedigree information was also utilized for haplotype phasing. The resulting genome‐wide recombination rate profiles were concordant with those of the worldwide population on a broad scale, and the resolution was much improved. We identified 9487 recombination hotspots and confirmed the enrichment of previously known motifs in the hotspots. Moreover, we demonstrated that the Japanese genetic map improved the haplotype phasing and genotype imputation accuracy for the Japanese population. The construction of a population‐specific genetic map will help make genetics research more accurate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Birds and bats have long lifespans relative to their body size compared with non-flying animals. However, the genomic basis associated with longer lifespan of flying species despite their higher metabolism was unclear. In this study, we hypothesized that genes involved in the regulation of metabolism and lifespan changed with the acquisition of flight and searched for genes that show specific evolutionary patterns in flying species. As a result, we identified several genes that show different evolutionary rates in bird and bat lineages. Genes in pathways involved in lifespan regulation were conserved in birds, while they evolved at an accelerated rate in bats. We also searched for genes in which convergent amino acid substitutions occurred in birds and bats and found such substitutions in genes involved in cancer, reactive oxygen species control and immunity. Our study revealed genomic changes associated with the acquisition of flight in birds and bats and suggested that multiple genes involved in the regulation of lifespan and metabolism support both high metabolism and longevity in flying species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Birds and bats have long lifespans relative to their body size compared with non-flying animals. However, the genomic basis associated with longer lifespan of flying species despite their higher metabolism was unclear. In this study, we hypothesized that genes involved in the regulation of metabolism and lifespan changed with the acquisition of flight and searched for genes that show specific evolutionary patterns in flying species. As a result, we identified several genes that show different evolutionary rates in bird and bat lineages. Genes in pathways involved in lifespan regulation were conserved in birds, while they evolved at an accelerated rate in bats. We also searched for genes in which convergent amino acid substitutions occurred in birds and bats and found such substitutions in genes involved in cancer, reactive oxygen species control and immunity. Our study revealed genomic changes associated with the acquisition of flight in birds and bats and suggested that multiple genes involved in the regulation of lifespan and metabolism support both high metabolism and longevity in flying species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toehold‐mediated strand displacement (TMSD) reaction, one of the DNA nanotechnologies, has great potential as s biological programmable platform in the cellular environment. Various artificial nucleic acids have been developed to improve stability and affinity for biological applications. However, the lack of understanding of the kinetics of TMSD reaction among artificial nucleic acids has limited their applications. We herein systematically characterized the kinetics of TMSD reactions with acyclic xeno nucleic acids (XNAs): serinol nucleic acid (SNA), acyclic D‐threoninol nucleic acid (D‐aTNA), and acyclic L‐threoninol nucleic acid (L‐aTNA). We found that the strand displacement reactions by D‐aTNA and by L‐aTNA were highly dependent on temperature. D‐aTNA and L‐aTNA systems were orthogonal to each other, and chirality of the input can be switched by using SNA as an interface. We also applied TMSD reactions of XNAs to a seesaw gate amplification system which utilizes the orthogonality. This work will contribute to the developments of thermoresponsive and bioorthogonal nucleic acid circuits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While the Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) are widely used for the glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus, the differences in the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors and DPP4 inhibitors on energy intake and diabetes-related indicators are unclear. Methods: This was a subanalysis of the CANTABILE study which compared the effects of canagliflozin and teneligliptin on metabolic factors in Japanese patients with Type 2 diabetes. The changes at 24 weeks from the baseline of the diabetes-related indicators including Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), energy intake and body weight were compared between the canagliflozin and teneligliptin groups. Results: Seventy-five patients in the canagliflozin group and 70 patients in the teneligliptin group were analyzed. A significant decrease in HbA1c was observed in both groups. In the teneligliptin group, although energy intake was significantly reduced, there was no significant change in body weight. Conversely, in the canagliflozin group, although energy intake tended to increase, body weight significantly decreased. Conclusion: Canagliflozin and teneligliptin have different effects on the dietary status of patients with Type 2 diabetes. Our result suggests that canagliflozin can manage blood glucose without weight gain, even with increased energy intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toehold‐mediated strand displacement (TMSD) reaction, one of the DNA nanotechnologies, has great potential as s biological programmable platform in the cellular environment. Various artificial nucleic acids have been developed to improve stability and affinity for biological applications. However, the lack of understanding of the kinetics of TMSD reaction among artificial nucleic acids has limited their applications. We herein systematically characterized the kinetics of TMSD reactions with acyclic xeno nucleic acids (XNAs): serinol nucleic acid (SNA), acyclic D‐threoninol nucleic acid (D‐aTNA), and acyclic L‐threoninol nucleic acid (L‐aTNA). We found that the strand displacement reactions by D‐aTNA and by L‐aTNA were highly dependent on temperature. D‐aTNA and L‐aTNA systems were orthogonal to each other, and chirality of the input can be switched by using SNA as an interface. We also applied TMSD reactions of XNAs to a seesaw gate amplification system which utilizes the orthogonality. This work will contribute to the developments of thermoresponsive and bioorthogonal nucleic acid circuits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycogen debranching enzyme is a single polypeptide with distinct catalytic sites for 4-α-glucanotransferase and amylo-α-1,6-glucosidase. To allow phosphorylase to degrade the inner tiers of highly branched glycogen, 4-α-glucanotransferase converts the phosphorylase-limit biantennary branch G-G-G-G-(G-G-G-G↔)G-G- (G: d -glucose, hyphens: α-1,4-linkages; double-headed arrow: α-1,6-linkage) into the G-G-G-G-(G↔)G-G- residue, which is then subjected to amylo-α-1,6-glucosidase to release the remaining G↔ residue. However, while the essential side-chain structure of the 4-α-glucanotransferase donor substrate has been determined to be the G-G-G-G↔ residue (Watanabe, Y. et al. (2008) J. Biochem. 143 , 435–440), its essential main-chain structure remains to be investigated. In this study, we probed the 4-α-glucanotransferase donor-binding region using novel fluorogenic dextrins G m -(G4↔)G-G n -F (F: 1-deoxy-1-[(2-pyridyl)amino]- d -glucitol) and maltohexaose (G6) as the donor and acceptor substrates, respectively. 4-α-Glucanotransferase exhibited maximum activity towards G4-(G4↔)G-F and G4-(G4↔)G-G-F, indicating that recognition of the G4-(G4↔)G-moiety was essential for full enzyme function. Notably, when the 4-α-glucanotransferase activity towards G4-(G4↔)G-G-F was taken as unity, those towards nonbranching dextrins were < 0.001. This indicated that the disproportionation activities towards maltooligosaccharides (G m ) are abnormal behaviours of 4-α-glucanotransferase. Notably, however, these activities have been traditionally measured to identify the 4-α-glucanotransferase mutations causing glycogen storage disease type III. This study provides a basis for more accurate identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A concise and direct Brønsted acid catalyzed cyanation of secondary and tertiary benzylic and allylic alcohols has been developed using trimethylsilyl cyanide (TMSCN) as a cyanide source and 1,1,1,3,3,3‐hexafluoro‐2‐propanol (HFIP) as a solvent. The present transition‐metal‐free catalytic process is operationally simple to perform under "open‐flask" conditions and is applicable to the preparation of a number of α‐arylacetonitriles as well as late‐stage material transformations. The effectiveness of the present protocol was further demonstrated by the first enantioselective synthesis and determination of the absolute configuration of verimol F. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS) is a disease characterized by a poor prognosis and a high mortality rate, leading to systemic thrombosis. Approximately two-thirds of CAPS cases are associated with conditions such as infections, malignancies, surgical interventions, and events linked to the disease activity of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Herein, we present a case of CAPS with multiorgan ischemia following ischemic stroke. Case Presentation: In this case report, a 33-year-old woman with a history of SLE and prolonged steroid use manifested impaired consciousness. Detection of the right internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion led to successful ICA recanalization through endovascular thrombectomy. Postoperatively, she experienced pulmonary embolism and renal infarction. Although antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) was suspected, APS-related antibodies were negative. Anticoagulation therapy was initiated, presuming corticosteroid-induced thrombosis. However, she developed multiorgan thrombosis, culminating in multiple organ failure. Based on her clinical course, a diagnosis of CAPS was established. Intensive care and plasma exchange therapy were instrumental in her recovery, and she was discharged with a modified Rankin Scale score of 4. Conclusion: When encountering multiorgan ischemia following ischemic stroke in a young adult patient with an autoimmune disease, the consideration of CAPS as a differential diagnosis is crucial, even if APS-related antibodies test negative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Interprofessional education (IPE) can cultivate competencies in multidisciplinary collaboration for patient safety, and both face-to-face and online IPE programs have recently been introduced. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of the online IPE program on undergraduate students after the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Methods: The difference-in-differences method was used to assess undergraduate students in the Schools of Medicine and Health Sciences and in the Faculty of Pharmacy at Takasaki University of Health and Welfare who participated in IPE programs at Gunma University (face-to-face IPE was implemented in 2019 and online IPE in 2020). We distributed a questionnaire that included modified versions of the Attitudes Toward Health Care Teams Scale (ATHCTS) and the Teamwork Attitudes Questionnaire (T-TAQ) to evaluate attitudes toward health-care teams and collaboration for patient safety, respectively, and then compared the differences. Results: The mean score on the "team efficiency" subscale of the ATHCTS in the online IPE program was significantly lower than that in the face-to-face IPE program. Scores on the T-TAQ in two categories, "mutual support" and "communication", were significantly higher in the online IPE program, which suggests that it may have a similar effect on students learning collaborative practice for patient safety. However, due to technological difficulties, the online IPE program reduced the educational effects for "team efficiency". The improvements in "mutual support" and "communication" seen in the online IPE program, suggest its necessity for collaborative practice for patient safety. Conclusion: These findings suggest that an online IPE program for patient safety may provide better education effects as a whole, but efforts are needed to minimize the associated technological difficulties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

La paralysie cérébrale (PC) est l'incapacité physique la plus fréquente chez les enfants canadiens. Les soins complets des enfants ayant la PC, qui sont capables de marcher et qui fonctionnent aux niveaux I et II du système de classification de la fonction motrice globale (GMFCS) sont déjà exposés dans un point de pratique. Le présent document complémentaire traite des soins aux enfants ayant la PC qui fonctionnent aux niveaux III à V du GMFCS. Ceux qui fonctionnent aux niveaux III et IV du GMFCS utilisent des dispositifs d'assistance comme des déambulateurs, des cannes ou des aides à la mobilité motorisées, tandis que ceux qui fonctionnent au niveau V du GMFCS ont besoin d'assistance à la mobilité comme un fauteuil roulant manuel. Le présent document contient un aperçu des principaux concepts relatifs à la détection précoce, aux services de réadaptation et aux possibilités de traitement pour les enfants présentant ces niveaux de PC, conjointement avec des ressources pratiques pour contribuer à la surveillance de la santé assurée par les pédiatres qui s'occupent de cette population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common physical disability in Canadian children. The comprehensive care of ambulatory children with CP functioning at Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level I and II was covered in a previous practice point. This companion document focuses on the care of children with CP functioning at GMFCS levels III to V. Children functioning at GMFCS level III and IV mobilize using devices such as a walker, canes, or powered mobility, while those functioning at GMFCS level V require assisted mobility, such as a manual wheelchair. An overview of key concepts in early detection, rehabilitation services, and therapeutic options for children with CP at these levels is provided, along with practical resources to assist health surveillance for paediatricians caring for this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metazoan species depict a wide spectrum of regeneration ability which calls into question the evolutionary origins of the underlying processes. Since species with high regeneration ability are widely distributed throughout metazoans, there is a possibility that the metazoan ancestor had an underlying common molecular mechanism. Early metazoans like sponges possess high regenerative ability, but, due to the large differences they have with Cnidaria and Bilateria regarding symmetry and neuronal systems, it can be inferred that this regenerative ability is different. We hypothesized that the last common ancestor of Cnidaria and Bilateria possessed remarkable regenerative ability which was lost during evolution. We separated Cnidaria and Bilateria into three classes possessing whole-body regenerating, high regenerative ability, and low regenerative ability. Using a multiway BLAST and gene phylogeny approach, we identified genes conserved in whole-body regenerating species and lost in low regenerative ability species and labeled them Cnidaria and Bilaterian regeneration genes. Through transcription factor analysis, we identified that Cnidaria and Bilaterian regeneration genes were associated with an overabundance of homeodomain regulatory elements. RNA interference of Cnidaria and Bilaterian regeneration genes resulted in loss of regeneration phenotype for HRJDa , HRJDb , DUF21 , DISP3 , and ARMR genes. We observed that DUF21 knockdown was highly lethal in the early stages of regeneration indicating a potential role in wound response. Also, HRJDa , HRJDb , DISP3 , and ARMR knockdown showed loss of regeneration phenotype after second amputation. The results strongly correlate with their respective RNA-seq profiles. We propose that Cnidaria and Bilaterian regeneration genes play a major role in regeneration across highly regenerative Cnidaria and Bilateria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cornulin (CRNN) and repetin (RPTN) belong to the fused‐type S100 protein family. Although these proteins have been reported to be expressed in the granular layer of the epidermis and have been suggested to be associated with barrier formation in the epidermis, their exact function remains unclear. This study examined the effects of ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation on CRNN and RPTN expression in human skin xenotransplantation. The CRNN expression increased in the granular layer of UVB‐irradiated skin 2 days after UVB irradiation compared to that in sham‐irradiated skin. Interestingly, CRNN signals were observed not only in the cytoplasm, but also in the peripheral regions of granular keratinocytes. In contrast, RPTN was rarely expressed in sham‐irradiated skin; however, RPTN signals were markedly increased in the granular layer of the UVB‐irradiated skin. In addition, activation of ERK1/2 and STAT3 was observed in UVB‐irradiated skin. Accordingly, the present study demonstrated that CRNN and RPTN are novel proteins whose expression can be increased by UVB irradiation. The activation of ERK1/2 and STAT3 may be associated with the regeneration of a UVB‐damaged epidermis, and CRNN and RPTN may be induced to repair any dysfunction in the epidermal barrier during this regeneration process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), treatment with sodium–glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors has been shown to reduce hospital admission rates for heart failure (HF). However, the multiple mechanisms hypothesized and investigated to explain the cardioprotection of SGLT2 inhibitors are not fully understood. Objectives: The effect of luseogliflozin on myocardial flow reserve (MFR) in patients with T2D (LUCENT-J) study aims to examine the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on myocardial perfusion. Methods: The LUCENT-J study is a prospective, single-center, randomized, two-arm, parallel-group, open-label (i.e., the radiology readers are blinded), active-controlled study. A cohort of 40 patients with T2D with no or stable (with no history of myocardial infarction and with or without previous percutaneous coronary intervention) coronary artery disease will be included. Patients will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to luseogliflozin or control and treated for 24 weeks. The primary outcome is the change in MFR, as measured by 13N-ammonia positron emission tomography/computed tomography, from baseline to 24 weeks after treatment initiation. Planned Outcomes: The LUCENT-J study will elucidate the mechanisms of cardioprotection by SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with T2D. Trial Registration: Japan Registry of Clinical Trials (JRCTs051220016). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple cavitary pulmonary metastases are rare, and cavitary lung lesions have various aetiologies and differential diagnoses. Therefore, radiological diagnosis of lung cavities is extremely difficult. Herein, we report a case of pancreatic cancer with multiple cavitary pulmonary metastases diagnosed using transbronchial lung cryobiopsy (TBLC), that required differentiation from pulmonary lesions of Sjögren's syndrome whose pulmonary manifestation may present as bronchiectasis and cystic change. TBLC may be useful for the diagnosis of multiple lesions because sufficiently large specimens can be obtained to allow pathological evaluation of the lung parenchyma and bronchiolar lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This letter to the editor is in response to the original articles by Romeo et al. and Tian et al. on pages 1173–1180 and 1181–1189 of this issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High dose irradiation effects of gamma-rays up to 17 MGy (H2O) on 4H-SiC junction field effect transistors (JFETs) were investigated. Due to the irradiation, gradual positive threshold voltage (Vth) shift as high as 0.5 V and continuous decrease in transconductance gm were observed. In addition, Vth instability and hysteresis appeared for the irradiated JFETs when the gate voltage (VG) sweep direction, sweep interval, i.e., averaged sweeping rate, sweep range, and delay time were changed. Increase of VG interval attributed to positive Vth shift for both forward and reverse directions, whereas narrowing of sweep range and increase of delay time resulting in a more noticeable negative shift of Vth for the reverse direction. Such Vth hysteresis indicates that capture and release of carriers predominantly took place via hole traps formed around the gate region due to high dose gamma-ray irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mountain streamwater chemistry is an effective indicator of forest condition. In 2022, we conducted a nationwide investigation of mountain streamwater chemistry in Japan, leveraging citizen‐participatory sampling. This approach involved 629 individuals with regular exposure to mountain and natural environments. Although our primary aim was to sample at locations from a 2003 study, we also welcomed samples from new sites. In total, 1414 streamwater samples were collected one time from each forested watershed at the baseflow condition. Our study focused on stream nitrate (NO3−) concentration as a key indicator of anthropogenic nitrogen (N) loading impacts on forests. We compared NO3− concentrations in 2022 with those from 2003 at identical sampling points. After excluding 179 points with evident human‐created features upstream, the mean NO3− concentration in 2022 was 0.328 mg N L−1 (n = 1236). Comparing data from 1088 points sampled in both years, the mean value in 2022 (0.324 mg N L−1) was significantly lower than that in 2003 (0.359 mg N L−1, p < 0.05). Notably, 88.5% of sampling points showed differences within ±0.25 mg N L−1. The spatial distribution pattern of mountain stream NO3− concentrations in 2022 did not consistently align with large cities, industrial areas, or N deposition sources. This unique approach marked the first nationwide participatory survey for collecting mountain streamwater in Japan. Our success in ensuring sample quality through accessible explanations, manuals, and videos demonstrates the potential of citizen science. However, the quantitative evaluation of scientific accuracy remains a forthcoming challenge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST), the most mature phase-change materials (PCM), functions as a recoding layer in nonvolatile memory and optical discs by contrasting the physical properties upon phase transition between amorphous and crystalline phases. However, GST faces challenges such as a large extinction coefficient (k) and low thermal stability of the amorphous phase. In this study, we introduce RuSbTe as a new PCM to address the GST concerns. Notably, the crystallization temperature of the amorphous RuSbTe is approximately 350 °C, significantly higher than GST. A one-order-of-magnitude increase in the resistivity contrast was observed upon phase transition. The crystalline (0.35–0.50 eV) and amorphous (0.26–0.37 eV) phases exhibit relatively small band gap values, resulting in substantial k. Although RuSbTe demonstrates a k difference of approximately 1 upon crystallization at the telecommunications C-band, the refractive index (n) difference is negligible. Unlike GST, which induces both phase retardation and amplitude modulation in its optical switch device, RuSbTe exhibits amplitude-only modulation. This study suggests that RuSbTe has the potential to enable new photonic computing devices that can independently control the phase and amplitude. Combining RuSbTe with phase-only modulators could open avenues for advanced applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the association between maternal fasting time before delivery and the occurrence of hypoglycemia in neonates immediately after birth. Methods: This prospective single‐center cohort study included pregnant women who delivered at the study institution between October 2021 and January 2023 and their neonates. The primary outcome was the incidence of neonatal hypoglycemia after birth, defined as a blood glucose level less than 47 mg/dL. Fasting time was categorized into quartiles, and the association between maternal fasting time and neonatal hypoglycemia was investigated. The crude or adjusted odds ratios of maternal fasting time for neonatal hypoglycemia were calculated using logistic regression analysis. Results: The study included 663 pregnant women and 696 neonates. Compared with the reference group with a short fasting time of 4.3 h or less, the adjusted odds ratios for neonatal hypoglycemia were 1.47 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.70–3.20) for middle fasting time (4.3–9.8 h), 4.05 (95% CI 2.02–8.56) for long fasting time (9.8–14.6 h), and 4.99 (95% CI 2.59–10.25) for very long fasting time (>14.6 h). In the subgroup analysis, the association between maternal fasting time and neonatal hypoglycemia showed different trends according to the mode of delivery. Conclusion: Maternal fasting time over 9–10 h before delivery was associated with the occurrence of neonatal hypoglycemia. Obstetrical management, considering not only maternal safety but also neonatal hypoglycemia prevention, is required. Pregnant women fasting before delivery increase the risk of neonatal hypoglycemia. Prenatal management should consider not only maternal safety but also neonatal hypoglycemia prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding and controlling the rheology of electrode slurries for lithium-ion batteries is critical both for improving their manufacturing efficiency and for achieving desirable battery performance. Here, we show drastic "slurry-preparation-dependent" rheology in an anode slurry for lithium-ion batteries, focusing on the behaviour of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), which is the most popular dispersant for graphite particles in anode slurries. Slurry preparation with dry-state mixing, where water is added to a dry mixture of graphite and CMC powder, results in much higher viscosity, yield stress, and elastic modulus than those achieved with conventional wet-state mixing, where graphite is added to a CMC solution. Cryogenic scanning electron microscopy reveals strange CMC "clumps" formed among the graphite particles in the slurry prepared with dry-state mixing. We attribute the increases in viscosity, yield stress, and elastic modulus for the slurries prepared with dry-state mixing to these clumps of CMC, which can enhance the adhesion between graphite particles and thereby constrain their motion. We also show that pre-shearing irreversibly decreases viscosity, yield stress, and elastic modulus, suggesting that the clumps of CMC are irreparably broken down by applied shear. The influence of the slurry preparation method on the rheological properties of anode slurries has not received attention in previous studies. Hence, we believe that our results might provide new strategies for controlling the rheology of the anode slurry in the manufacturing process for lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Japan, near-infrared photoimmunotherapy (NIR-PIT) was introduced in 2021 as a treatment option for unresectable recurrent head and neck cancer. The treatment targets the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which is overexpressed in 80–90 % of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). NIR-PIT should theoretically show therapeutic efficacy if EGFR is expressed, even in nonsquamous cell carcinomas (non-SCC). To the best of our knowledge, there are no case reports of NIR-PIT for non-SCC. We performed NIR-PIT in a patient with non‐SCC of the head and neck region. After performing two NIR-PIT treatments, small free clusters of residual tumor cells were observed. Immunostaining in this specimen revealed EGFR expression in residual tumor cells. The residual tumor cells had been irradiated sufficiently to achieve necrosis. It is suggested that not only laser irradiation and expression of EGFR but also other factors are involved in the efficacy of this treatment. Further investigation for these other factors is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have previously identified the filaggrin (FLG)-like protein, hornerin (HRNR). Recently, there have been several reports regarding the relationship between HRNR and atopic dermatitis (AD). In the present study, we examined HRNR expression in the skin lesions of seven unrelated patients with AD to clarify the role of HRNR in the pathogenesis of AD. HRNR was detected in chronic AD lesions (n = 4), whereas no HRNR signals were observed in acute AD lesions (n = 3). HRNR was detected in the cytokeratin 6-expressing epidermis, and Ki67-positive keratinocytes were more abundant in the HRNR-positive epidermis. These findings suggest that HRNR may be associated with epidermal hyperproliferation in AD lesions. Next, we examined HRNR expression in skin diseases associated with hyperkeratosis. HRNR signals were irregularly observed in different cells from those expressing FLG in epidermolytic ichthyosis and actinic keratosis. Therefore, HRNR may play a unique role in the molecular process of cornification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using data collected through a structured telephone-based survey in north-western Bangladesh during the height of the pandemic, we present evidence on the effects of household specific shocks on rural children induced by the COVID-19 lockdowns. We focus on three child-related outcomes: time use of children during school closures, plans regarding children's future schooling, and the incidence of child marriages. We find that respiratory illness and job loss experienced in the household lowered expectations of a child's future school continuation and increased the probability of marriage-related discussions for girls. The return of a male migrant led to a reduction of children's time spent doing paid work, while the return of a female migrant led to a reduction in children's time spent caring for others and doing household chores. Our findings offer a cautionary tale regarding the potential long-term effects of the pandemic and school closures on girls in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Physical frailty accelerates the timing of both subsequent disability and death; however, evidence regarding the impact of frailty on the period from disability onset to death and sex differences of this impact is lacking. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship among physical frailty, disability, death, and sex differences. Methods: This Japanese cohort study included 10,524 community‐dwelling people aged ≥65 years. Physical frailty was operationalized by key phenotypes as per Fried's criteria (slowness, weakness, exhaustion, weight loss, and low activity) at baseline. We calculated hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for disability onset and post‐disability survival according to the frailty status. Results: During a 5‐year follow‐up, the risk of disability onset for pre‐frailty (HR: 1.74, 95% CI: 1.51–2.00) and frailty (HR: 3.27, 95% CI: 2.77–3.87) were significantly higher than that for robust people. Furthermore, among participants who developed disabilities within 5 years (n = 1481), the risk of post‐disability death for pre‐frailty was not different from that for robust (HR: 1.49, 95% CI: 0.99–2.24), but frailty showed a higher risk of post‐disability death than did robust people. (HR: 1.75, 95% CI: 1.13–2.72). In the sex‐stratified analysis, although the female group showed no association between frailty status and post‐disability death (HR: 1.21, 95% CI: 0.63–2.33 in pre‐frailty; HR: 1.24, 95% CI: 0.60–2.57 in frailty), the male group showed higher risk of post‐disability death in both pre‐frailty (HR: 1.74, 95% CI: 1.03–2.96) and frailty (HR: 2.32, 95% CI: 1.32–4.09). Conclusions: Physical frailty shortens the period from disability onset to death. Additionally, the impact of frailty on post‐disability death is greater for males than for females. Our findings suggest that physical frailty is an important clinical indicator distinct from disability and that interventions to prevent and address frailty in men need further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: This report describes a case of an electric toothbrush head being retained between the floor of the mouth and the submandibular gland following a fall. Computed tomography imaging is recommended in cases of oral cavity damage to assess tissue damage and ascertain the position of the foreign body concerning blood vessels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) syndrome is a highly lethal condition characterized by the complication of multiple organ damage. Although the effects of combined antithrombin (AT) and recombinant thrombomodulin (rTM) on DIC syndrome have previously been examined, the results are inconsistent and inconclusive. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review on the combined administration of AT and rTM for the treatment of septic DIC to investigate the superiority of the combination therapy over either AT or rTM monotherapy using a random-effects analysis model. Method: We searched electronic databases, including Medline, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, and Igaku-Chuo Zasshi (ICHU-SHI) Japanese Central Review of Medicine Web from inception to January 2022. Studies assessing the efficacy of combined AT and rTM were included. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality, and the secondary outcome was occurrence of serious bleeding complications compared to monotherapy. We presented the pooled odds ratio (OR) or hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) depending on reporting results in each primary study. Results: We analyzed seven enrolled clinical trials, all of which were observational studies. Combination therapy had a non-significant favorable association with lower 28-day mortality compared to monotherapy (HR 0.67 [0.43–1.05], OR 0.73 [0.45–1.18]). The I2 values were 60% and 72%, respectively, suggesting high heterogeneity. As a secondary outcome, bleeding complications were similar between the two groups (pooled OR 1.11 [0.55–2.23], I2 value 55%). Conclusions: Although the findings in this analysis could not confirm a statistically significant effect of AT and rTM combination therapy for septic DIC, it showed a promising effect in terms of improving mortality. The incidence of bleeding was low and clinically feasible. Further research is warranted to draw more conclusive results. Trial registration: This study was registered in the University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN ID: 000049820). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) syndrome is a highly lethal condition characterized by the complication of multiple organ damage. Although the effects of combined antithrombin (AT) and recombinant thrombomodulin (rTM) on DIC syndrome have previously been examined, the results are inconsistent and inconclusive. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review on the combined administration of AT and rTM for the treatment of septic DIC to investigate the superiority of the combination therapy over either AT or rTM monotherapy using a random-effects analysis model. Method: We searched electronic databases, including Medline, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, and Igaku-Chuo Zasshi (ICHU-SHI) Japanese Central Review of Medicine Web from inception to January 2022. Studies assessing the efficacy of combined AT and rTM were included. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality, and the secondary outcome was occurrence of serious bleeding complications compared to monotherapy. We presented the pooled odds ratio (OR) or hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) depending on reporting results in each primary study. Results: We analyzed seven enrolled clinical trials, all of which were observational studies. Combination therapy had a non-significant favorable association with lower 28-day mortality compared to monotherapy (HR 0.67 [0.43–1.05], OR 0.73 [0.45–1.18]). The I2 values were 60% and 72%, respectively, suggesting high heterogeneity. As a secondary outcome, bleeding complications were similar between the two groups (pooled OR 1.11 [0.55–2.23], I2 value 55%). Conclusions: Although the findings in this analysis could not confirm a statistically significant effect of AT and rTM combination therapy for septic DIC, it showed a promising effect in terms of improving mortality. The incidence of bleeding was low and clinically feasible. Further research is warranted to draw more conclusive results. Trial registration: This study was registered in the University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN ID: 000049820). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Internal microtextures of ternary alkali feldspars in sanidine trachyte from Oki‐Dogo Island were examined using an electron microprobe analyzer, a scanning electron microscope, a transmission electron microscope and cathodoluminescence instruments, to develop the understanding of volcanic processes of alkaline magmas related to feldspar crystallization. The examined trachyte is an evolved rock of the Oki‐Dogo Pliocene trachyte group. Its phenocryst feldspars are commonly associated with lamellar‐wavy‐domain textures with scales approximately from 100 nm up to several hundreds of μm that show complex and gradual variations in composition: however, anti‐rapakivi zoning textures common in other Oki‐Dogo alkaline rocks are almost completely absent in the trachyte. These textures are produced by extensive magmatic ion‐exchange replacement reactions progressively advanced in the evolved magma. Characteristic braided fluorite alignments are developed consistently with lamellar‐wavy‐domain textures in phenocryst feldspars, and similar braided alignments are also present in groundmass feldspars with complicated microtextures. Most of fluorite grains are <100 nm in diameter, and the patterns of braided fluorite alignments vary greatly in individual feldspars. The whole occurrence of the feldspar microtextures represents an extreme example of diffusion‐controlled replacement reactions, progressively advanced in the dry (relatively anhydrous) trachyte magma. The genetic processes forming fluorite alignments in feldspars are related to magma compositions, especially F and P contents, and the crystallization of F‐bearing minerals, especially of fluorapatite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study clarifies the physical, psychological, and social forms of distress in, and care needs of, cardiac surgery patients, including optimal times for supporting them in their post‐hospital discharge daily lives. Methods: Semi‐structured qualitative interviews were conducted. Participants included 12 adults (11 male and one female, mean age = 66.5 years) who had undergone cardiac surgery, experienced intensive care, and received outpatient care at the first post‐discharge visit (around 2 ~ 3 weeks after discharge), around 3 months after discharge, and between 3 months and 1 year after discharge. Verbatim transcripts were analyzed based on similarities and differences for codes based on assessment items, and subcategories and categories were generated. Results: After surgery, patients experienced physical, psychological, and social distress. First, they experienced physical pain shortly after discharge. Moreover, as they recovered at home, a gap between their sense of their recovery and the perceptions of those around them about their recovery often persisted, which led to psychological and social distress. Patients gained a sense of safety through "assurance of physical recovery" and security through "shared subjective distress." Conclusions: Post‐cardiac surgery patients seek reassurance and safety by sharing experiences owing to daily life distress. Our findings could help provide better support to meet the care needs of such patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When encountering a visual error during a reaching movement, the motor system improves the motor command for the subsequent trial. This improvement is impaired by visual error uncertainty, which is considered evidence that the motor system optimally estimates the error. However, how such statistical computation is accomplished remains unclear. Here, we propose an alternative scheme implemented with a divisive normalization (DN): the responses of neuronal elements are normalized by the summed activity of the population. This scheme assumes that when an uncertain visual error is provided by multiple cursors, the motor system processes the error conveyed by each cursor and integrates the information using DN. The DN model reproduced the patterns of learning response to 1-3 cursor errors and the impairment of learning response with visual error uncertainty. This study provides a new perspective on how the motor system updates motor commands according to uncertain visual error information. A new model proposes that the motor system updates motor commands by processing visual feedback with a divisive normalization, which provides a mechanistic explanation for visuomotor learning impairment with the level of visual feedback uncertainty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Family planning is an essential human right guaranteed by law, many women who do not desire to become pregnant find themselves lacking information about modern contraceptives. The intrauterine device (IUD) is a long-term reversible contraceptive method widely used around the world. In Brazil, in 2017 the Ministry of Health launched new guidelines focusing on the role of women in humanized birth, and also on the provision of copper IUDs in maternity wards. The objective of this study was to analyze the expulsion rate of the copper IUD with insertion in the immediate postpartum period, in order to evaluate its efficacy. This is a retrospective cohort study, with a quantitative approach. The study showed that the expulsion rate among parturients by cesarean section and vaginal delivery, respectively, was 26.1% and 49.0%. The odds ratio (OR) was 2.8 (1,2; 6,7), indicating that, according to logistic regression adjusted to the data, vaginal delivery increased the chance of IUD expulsion by 2.8 times. Since, the IUD offers a reduction in the number of unwanted pregnancies and consequently acts to reduce maternal and child morbidity and mortality. It is concluded that the IUD in the immediate postpartum period is effective and safe, however, it is necessary to expand the offer, create protocols and standardized training in order to improve the service. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School‐Age Children‐Present and Lifetime version (K‐SADS‐PL) is a widely used semi‐structured diagnostic interview in child and adolescent psychiatry. However, the psychometric properties of its updated version, the K‐SADS‐PL for DSM‐5, have scarcely been examined, especially for criterion validity. This study was designed to examine the inter‐rater reliability, criterion validity and construct validity of the K‐SADS‐PL for DSM‐5 in 137 Japanese outpatients. Methods: Two of 12 experienced clinicians independently performed the K‐SADS interview for each patient in a conjoint session, and the resulting consensus diagnosis was compared with a "best‐estimate" diagnosis made by two of eight experienced clinicians using all available information for the patient. Results: The inter‐rater reliability was excellent, as shown by κ > 0.75 for all disorders, with the exception of current separation anxiety disorder. The criterion validity was fair to good, as shown by κ > 0.40 for all disorders, with the exception of current and lifetime agoraphobia. The construct validity was also good, as shown by theoretically expected associations between the K‐SADS‐PL diagnoses and subscales of the child behavior checklist. Conclusion: The K‐SADS‐PL for DSM‐5, now available in Japanese, generates valid diagnoses in child and adolescent psychiatry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was undertaken to develop a self‐micellizing solid dispersion (SMSD) of tacrolimus (TAC) to improve the biopharmaceutical properties of TAC. An SMSD formulation of TAC (SMSD/TAC) and amorphous solid dispersion formulation of TAC (ASD/TAC) were prepared with Soluplus®, an amphiphilic copolymer, and hydroxypropyl cellulose, respectively. Physicochemical properties were characterized in terms of morphology, crystallinity, storage stability, interaction of TAC with Soluplus®, and micelle‐forming potency; pharmacokinetic behavior was also evaluated in rats. Tacrolimus in both formulations was in an amorphous state. After storage at 40°C/75% relativity humidity for 4 weeks, there were no significant changes in the crystallinity of TAC between nonaged and aged SMSD/TAC, whereas slight recrystallization was observed in aged ASD/TAC. The results of circular dichroism (CD) and infrared spectroscopic analyses were indicative of the potent drug–polymer interaction in SMSD/TAC, possibly leading to the prevention of recrystallization. Compared with other TAC samples, SMSD/TAC exhibited significant improvement in the dissolution behavior of TAC through the immediate formation of fine micelles. After the oral administration of TAC samples (10 mg TAC/kg) to rats, there was marked enhancement in systemic exposure to TAC with both formulations; in particular, SMSD/TAC achieved an increase in bioavailability ca. 20‐fold higher than crystalline TAC. The SMSD approach might provide an effective dosage form for TAC with enhanced physicochemical stability and oral absorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]