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Background: This study aimed to: (1) identify assessment methods that can detect greater ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (DROM) limitation in the injured limb; (2) determine whether differences in weightbearing measurements exist even in the absence of DROM limitations in the injured limb according to non-weightbearing measurements; and (3) examine associations between DROM in the weightbearing and non-weightbearing positions and compare those between a patient group with foot and ankle injuries and a healthy group. Methods: Eighty-two patients with foot and ankle injuries (e.g., fractures, ligament and tendon injuries) and 49 healthy individuals participated in this study. Non-weightbearing DROM was measured under two different conditions: prone position with knee extended and prone position with knee flexed. Weightbearing DROM was measured as the tibia inclination angle (weightbearing angle) and distance between the big toe and wall (weightbearing distance) at maximum dorsiflexion. The effects of side (injured, uninjured) and measurement method on DROM in the patient groups were assessed using two-way repeated-measures ANOVA and t-tests. Pearson correlations between measurements were assessed. In addition, we analyzed whether patients without non-weightbearing DROM limitation (≤ 3 degrees) showed limitations in weightbearing DROM using t-tests with Bonferroni correction. Results: DROM in patient groups differed significantly between legs with all measurement methods (all: P < 0.001), with the largest effect size for weightbearing angle (d = 0.95). Patients without non-weightbearing DROM limitation (n = 37) displayed significantly smaller weightbearing angle and weightbearing distance on the injured side than on the uninjured side (P < 0.001 each), with large effect sizes (d = 0.97–1.06). Correlation coefficients between DROM in non-weightbearing and weightbearing positions were very weak (R = 0.17, P = 0.123) to moderate (R = 0.26–0.49, P < 0.05) for the patient group, and moderate to strong for the healthy group (R = 0.51–0.69, P < 0.05). Conclusions: DROM limitations due to foot and ankle injuries may be overlooked if measurements are only taken in the non-weightbearing position and should also be measured in the weightbearing position. Furthermore, DROM measurements in non-weightbearing and weightbearing positions may assess different characteristics, particularly in patient group. Level of evidence: Level IV, cross-sectional study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a major component of the stroma in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and are considered important therapeutic targets. In this study, we demonstrated that aortic carboxypeptidase-like protein (ACLP) is highly expressed in CAFs of OSCC, thereby activating them. Cancer cells induce ACLP expression in CAFs through the TGF-β1 signaling pathway, and CAF-derived ACLP enhances the migration and infiltration of cancer cells. Furthermore, ACLP co-expresses with collagen and shows an inverse correlation with tumor infiltration of CD8+ T lymphocytes. Our data suggest that targeting ACLP could be a potential approach for stromal-targeted therapy and a novel target for cancer immunotherapy. We previously showed that upregulation of adipocyte enhancer-binding protein 1 (AEBP1) in vascular endothelial cells promotes tumor angiogenesis. In the present study, we aimed to clarify the role of stromal AEBP1/ACLP expression in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Immunohistochemical analysis showed that ACLP is abundantly expressed in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in primary OSCC tissues and that upregulated expression of ACLP is associated with disease progression. Analysis using CAFs obtained from surgically resected OSCCs showed that the expression of AEBP1/ACLP in CAFs is upregulated by co-culture with OSCC cells or treatment with TGF-β1, suggesting cancer-cell-derived TGF-β1 induces AEBP1/ACLP in CAFs. Collagen gel contraction assays showed that ACLP contributes to the activation of CAFs. In addition, CAF-derived ACLP promotes migration, invasion, and in vivo tumor formation by OSCC cells. Notably, tumor stromal ACLP expression correlated positively with collagen expression and correlated inversely with CD8+ T cell infiltration into primary OSCC tumors. Boyden chamber assays suggested that ACLP in CAFs may attenuate CD8+ T cell migration. Our results suggest that stromal ACLP contributes to the development of OSCCs, and that ACLP is a potential therapeutic target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acupuncture is a non-pharmacological therapy used clinically for mood disorders. Relief of physical symptoms with acupuncture treatment may lead to relief of depressive symptoms and improvement of quality of life (QoL). Few studies have examined the effect of acupuncture on the physical symptoms and QoL of patients with mood disorders. Objectives: To examine the effect of acupuncture on physical symptoms and QoL of patients with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD). Methods: This prospective, single-arm, longitudinal study included patients with MDD and BD from an outpatient psychiatric clinic. Acupuncture was performed weekly for 12 weeks in combination with regular treatment, with fixed acupoints and individualized treatment for each patient. Psychiatric symptoms were evaluated using the Himorogi Self-Rating Depression Scale (HSDS) and Himorogi Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (HSAS). Physical symptoms such as physical pain, gastrointestinal symptoms, and sleep disorders were evaluated using the Japanese version of the Somatic Symptom Scale-8 (SSS-8) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS). QoL was evaluated using the 8-item Short-Form (SF-8) Health Survey. Results: A total of 36 patients (15 MDD and 21 BD patients) were analyzed. After 12 weeks of acupuncture, HSDS and HSAS scores significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Physical symptoms evaluated using SSS-8 and VAS scores also significantly improved (p < 0.05). In particular, neck pain and insomnia improved at an early stage. Among the SF-8 subscales, scores of bodily pain, general health perception, role limitations due to emotional problems, and mental health significantly increased (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Acupuncture may improve not only psychiatric symptoms but also physical symptoms and QoL in patients with treatment-resistant mood disorders. Further studies are required for confirmation of the preliminary data collected thus far. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Walkable neighbourhoods promote physical activity and prevent obesity, but there is limited evidence to inform urban planning strategies for public health within the context of rural Japan. This study describes associations between neighbourhood walkability and obesity in Toyama, a regional municipality in Japan. Methods A cross-sectional analysis of the Toyama Prefecture National Health Insurance data (n  = 3454) in 2016 using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) and binary logistic regression. Walk Score® was used to estimate neighbourhood walkability. Results Residents from highly walkable neighbourhoods generally had lower mean body mass index (BMI), but significant associations between neighbourhood walkability and BMI and prevalence of obesity were only observed in women (adjusted OR: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.26–0.80). Men below 65 years old had higher obesity prevalence (adjusted OR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.34–2.30). Daily alcohol consumption was associated with lower odds of being obese among men (adjusted OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.55–0.95). Hypertension, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidaemia were associated with higher obesity prevalence among residents, regardless of gender. Conclusions Walkable environment may improve health outcomes for rural communities in Japan. Further studies are required to create equitable and inclusive living spaces for men and women to access healthier lifestyle choices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. The aim of this randomized controlled study was to investigate the effects of insoles with a toe-grip bar on toe function and standing balance in healthy young women. Methods. Thirty female subjects were randomly assigned to an intervention group or a control group. The intervention group wore shoes with insoles with a toe-grip bar. The control group wore shoes with general insoles. Both groups wore the shoes for 4 weeks, 5 times per week, 9 hours per day. Toe-grip strength, toe flexibility, static balance (total trajectory length and envelope area of the center of pressure), and dynamic balance (functional reach test) were measured before and after the intervention. Results. Significant interactions were observed for toe-grip strength and toe flexibility (F=12.53, p<0.01; F=5.84, p<0.05, resp.), with significant improvement in the intervention group compared with that in the control group. Post hoc comparisons revealed that both groups showed significant improvement in toe-grip strength (p<0.01 and p<0.05, resp.), with higher benefits observed for the intervention group (p<0.01). Conversely, no significant interaction was observed in the total trajectory length, envelope area, and functional reach test. Conclusions. This study suggests that insoles with a toe-grip bar contribute to improvements in toe-grip strength and toe flexibility in healthy young women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. This study aimed to investigate whether a lifestyle-based physical activity program could contribute to reduced medical expenditure. Methods. The study participants were 60 adults aged 63.1 (standard deviation, 4.4) years in the intervention group; the case-control group consisted of 300 adults who were randomly selected from Japan’s national health insurance system. This community-based retrospective study incorporated a 3-year follow-up. Results. The total and outpatient medical expenditure in the intervention group were significantly lower than in the control group: total expenditure, $US640.4/year; outpatient expenditure, $369.1/year. The odds ratio for outpatient visiting was 6.47-fold higher in the control than in the intervention group. Conclusion. Our study suggests that a health program to promote physical activity can result in reduced total medical expenditure, outpatient medical expenditure, and possibly also inpatient medical expenditure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Little is known about the effects of dietary components on the regulation of the gastric emptying rate of alcohol and its impact on alcohol metabolism. We recently found that the crude water-insoluble dietary fibers from several types of botanical foods maintained aqueous ethanol solutions. Additionally, the ethanol-absorbing ability of the dietary fibers correlated with the inhibition of the blood ethanol elevation by delaying gastric emptying. Moreover, we found that the synergism between tomatoes and alanine to reduce the absorption of alcohol in rats was attributable to the effect of alanine on precipitates, such as the crude water-insoluble dietary fibers of tomatoes. In the present study, we assess whether an alanine-fortified tomato (AFT) is effective in relieving acute alcohol-induced adverse effects by lowering the alcohol action in healthy human volunteers following the ingestion of alcohol with a meal. Methods: Twenty healthy males ingested the AFT or sugar as the control, with 1.2 g/kg of alcohol and a micronutrient-fortified meal in a randomized cross-over study. Breath alcohol concentrations were temporally measured, and blood and urine samples were obtained during the trial. The study protocol was repeated with the AFT and sugar groups reversed 4 weeks later. Results: Various analyses were performed using the data from the 15 subjects. The breath alcohol concentrations significantly decreased when AFT was ingested. A decrease in the urinary pH was also noted following the ingestion of AFT. Moreover, the sum of seven sedative scores as subjective sensation after alcohol ingestion was significantly reduced by AFT the next morning. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that the simultaneous ingestion of AFT under the consumption of excess alcohol and a micronutrient-fortified meal relieved the acute alcohol-induced adverse effects in male volunteers. These results are consistent with the effectiveness observed in rats as previously reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Progranulin is a growth factor that is active in wound repair and is an antagonist of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptors, regulating fibroblast activation, angiogenesis, and inflammation. Because long-standing activation of gene programs related to wound healing is a hallmark of systemic sclerosis (SSc), we sought to investigate the role of progranulin in SSc. Methods Progranulin expression levels in human and murine skin samples were determined by immunohistochemical analysis and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The role of progranulin in fibroblast activation was examined using a gene-silencing technique. Progranulin levels in serum obtained from 60 patients with SSc and 16 healthy control subjects were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Progranulin expression was increased in SSc dermal fibroblasts compared with normal dermal fibroblasts, both in vivo and in vitro. Transcription factor Fli-1, a deficiency of which is involved in the activation of SSc dermal fibroblasts, served as a potent repressor of the progranulin gene, and Fli-1+/− mice and bleomycin-treated wild-type mice exhibited up-regulated expression of progranulin in dermal fibroblasts. SSc dermal fibroblasts were resistant to the antifibrotic effect of TNF, but this resistance was reversed by gene silencing of progranulin. Serum progranulin levels were elevated in patients with early diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc), especially in those with inflammatory skin symptoms, and were positively correlated with the C-reactive protein level. Conclusion Progranulin overproduction due to Fli-1 deficiency may contribute to the constitutive activation of SSc dermal fibroblasts by antagonizing the antifibrotic effect of TNF. Progranulin may also be involved in the inflammatory process associated with progressive skin sclerosis in early dcSSc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. Macrophages serve as sweepers of microbes and inflammation-derived wastes and regulators of inflammation. Some traditional Japanese medicines are reported to have adjuvant effects by modifying macrophages. Our aim was to characterize the actions of jumihaidokuto (JHT) for treatment of skin inflammations including acne vulgaris, in which Propionibacterium acnes has pathogenic roles. Methods. Dermatitis was induced in rat ears by intradermal injection of P. acnes. JHT or prednisolone (PDN) was given orally, and ear thickness and histology were evaluated. The effects of constituents and metabolites of JHT on monocytes were tested by cell-based assays using the human monocytic THP-1 cell. Results. JHT and PDN suppressed the ear thickness induced by P. acnes injection. Histological examinations revealed that JHT, but not PDN, promoted macrophage accumulation at 24 h after the injection. PDN suppressed the macrophage chemokine MCP-1 in the inflamed ears, while JHT did not affect it. The JHT constituents liquiritigenin and isoliquiritin increased expression of CD86 (type-1 macrophage marker) and CD192 (MCP-1 receptor) and enhanced phagocytosis by THP-1. Conclusions. JHT suppressed dermatitis, probably by enhancing type-1 macrophage functions, with an action different from PDN. JHT may be a beneficial drug in treatment of skin inflammation induced by P. acnes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Interleukin-17 (IL-17)-producing T cells (Th17 cells) play critical roles in the pathogenesis of immune-related diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus. However, the fundamental mechanism regulating Th17 cell differentiation is not fully understood. Recently, we demonstrated that plasma levels of CD147/basigin (Bsg) in patients with lupus nephritis (LN) were closely associated with disease activity. but the molecular mechanism involving Bsg has been elusive. Here, we addressed the role of Bsg in the pathogenesis of LN. Methods Injections of pristane (2,6,10,14-tetramethylpentadecane [TMPD]) were administered to Bsg−/− or Bsg+/+ mice to induce LN. The mice were killed 6 months after being injected, for histologic and biochemical analyses of the kidneys and spleens. Results Pristane induced LN more strikingly in Bsg−/− mice than in Bsg+/+ mice, even though humoral autoimmunity was similarly increased in both genotypes. The increased number of Th17, but not Th1, Treg cells, was augmented in Bsg−/− mice. The expression of IL-17 was also increased in the kidneys of Bsg−/− mice, in proportion to LN disease activity. Furthermore, treatment with anti-IL-17 antibody reduced LN disease activity in Bsg−/− mice. Complementary to these phenotypes of Bsg−/− mice, Bsg expression was enhanced in activated CD4+ T cells in vivo and in vitro. Bsg deficiency selectively augmented in vitro differentiation of naive CD4+ T cells to Th17 cells and STAT-3 phosphorylation during this differentiation. Moreover, STAT-3 phosphorylation was suppressed by crosslinking of Bsg with its antibody. Conclusion Bsg plays an indispensable role in Th17 cell differentiation as a negative regulator by suppressing the IL-6/STAT-3 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. B cells play an important role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. The role of Bruton's tyrosine kinase (Btk) in cytokine-induced human B cell differentiation and class-switch recombination remains incompletely defined. This study analysed the effect of Btk on human activated B cells. Methods. Purified B cells from healthy subjects were stimulated with B cell receptor (BCR) and other stimuli with or without a Btk inhibitor and gene expression was measured. The B cell line BJAB was used to assess Btk-associated signalling cascades. Phosphorylated Btk (p-Btk) in peripheral blood B cells obtained from 10 healthy subjects and 41 patients with RA was measured by flow cytometry and compared with patient backgrounds. Results. IL-21 signalling, in concert with BCR, CD40 and BAFF signals, led to robust expression of differentiation- and class-switch DNA recombination-related genes and IgG production in human B cells, all of which were significantly suppressed by the Btk inhibitor. Although phosphorylation of STAT1 and STAT3 was induced by co-stimulation with IL-21, BCR and CD40, STAT1 phosphorylation in the nucleus, but not in the cytoplasm, was exclusively impaired by Btk blockade. High levels of p-Btk were noted in B cells of RA patients compared with controls and they correlated significantly with titres of RF among RF-positive patients. Conclusion. The findings elucidate a model in which Btk not only plays a fundamental role in the regulation of BCR signalling, but may also mediate crosstalk with cytokine signalling pathways through regulation of IL-21-induced phosphorylation of STAT1 in the nuclei of human B cells. Btk appears to have pathological relevance in RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to clarify the differences between adolescent and collegiate baseball pitchers in the kinematic and kinetic profiles of the trunk and lower limbs during the pitching motion. The subjects were thirty-two adolescent baseball pitchers aged 12-15 years (APG) and thirty collegiate baseball pitchers aged 18-22 years (CPG). Three-dimensional motion analysis with a comprehensive lower-extremity model was used to evaluate kinematic and kinetic parameters during baseball pitching. The ground reaction forces (GRFs) of the pivot and stride legs during pitching were determined using two multicomponent force plates. The joint torques of hip, knee, and ankle were calculated by the inverse-dynamics computation of musculoskeletal human models using motion-capture data. To eliminate any effect of variation in body size, kinetic and GRFs data were normalized by dividing them by body mass. The velocity of a pitched ball was significantly higher (p < 0.01) in CPG (35.2 ± 1.9 m⋅s-1) than in the APG (30.7 ± 2.7 m⋅s-1). Most kinematic parameters for the lower limbs were similar between the CPG and the APG. Maximum Fy (toward the throwing direction) on the pivot leg and Fy and resultant forces on the stride leg at ball release were significantly greater in the CPG than in the APG (p < 0.05). Hip and knee joint torques on the lower limbs were significantly greater in the CPG than in the APG (p < 0.05). The present study indicates that the kinematics of lower limbs during baseball pitching are similar between adolescent and collegiate pitchers, but the momentum of the lower limbs during pitching is lower in adolescent pitchers than in collegiate ones, even when the difference in body mass is considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective It is generally accepted that blockade of endothelin receptors has potentially beneficial effects on vasculopathy associated with systemic sclerosis (SSc). The aim of this study was to clarify the molecular mechanism underlying these effects using endothelial cell-specific Fli-1-knockout (Fli-1 ECKO) mice, an animal model of SSc vasculopathy. Methods Levels of messenger RNA for target genes and the expression and phosphorylation levels of target proteins were determined in human and murine dermal microvascular endothelial cells by real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting, respectively. The binding of Fli-1 to the target gene promoters was evaluated using chromatin immunoprecipitation. Expression levels of Fli-1 and α-smooth muscle actin in murine skin were evaluated using immunohistochemistry. Vascular structure and permeability were evaluated in mice injected with fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran and Evans blue dye, respectively. Results In human dermal microvascular endothelial cells, endothelin 1 induced phosphorylation of Fli-1 at Thr312 through the sequential activation of c-Abl and protein kinase Cδ, leading to a decrease in Fli-1 protein levels as well as a decrease in binding of Fli-1 to the target gene promoters, whereas bosentan treatment reversed those effects. In Fli-1 ECKO mice, 4 weeks of treatment with bosentan increased endothelial Fli-1 expression, resulting in vascular stabilization and the restoration of impaired leaky vessels. Conclusion The vascular fragility of Fli-1 ECKO mice was improved by bosentan through the normalization of Fli-1 protein levels and activity in endothelial cells, which may explain, in part, the mechanism underlying the beneficial effects of endothelin receptor blockade on SSc vasculopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A recent survey of 79 countries showed that fertility knowledge was lower in Japan than in any other developed country. Given the fertility decline in Japan and the importance of fertility knowledge, we conducted an online survey to examine fertility knowledge and the related factors for effective public education. Methods: We studied people aged 18-59 years old, n = 4,328 (the “General” group), and also people who had been trying to conceive for at least six months, 18-50 years old, n = 618 (the “Triers” group). Fertility knowledge was assessed using the Japanese version of the 13-item Cardiff Fertility Knowledge Scale (CFKS-J). All participants provided socio-demographic and fertility information. Participants also completed a 14-item health literacy scale and an 11-item health numeracy scale. We asked participants who were aware of age-related decline in fertility when and where they first acquired that knowledge. Results: The average percentages of CFKS-J items answered correctly were 53.1% in the Triers group and 44.4% in the General group (p < 0.001). Multivariate linear regression models showed in the Triers group greater fertility knowledge was associated with greater health literacy and prior medical consultation regarding their fertility. In the General group greater fertility knowledge was associated with being female, younger, university educated, currently trying to conceive, non-smoking, having higher household income, having higher health literacy and having higher health numeracy. Of those who were aware of the age-related decline in fertility, around 3% first learned the fact “at school”, and around 65% first learned it “through mass media” or “via the Internet”. More than 30% of the respondents first learned it “less than 5 years before” the survey. Conclusions: Although fertility knowledge had improved since a previous study, possibly due to recent media coverage of age-related infertility, it was still low. Educational interventions, both in schools and in the community, may be needed to increase fertility knowledge in the general population because most people obtain fertility knowledge from mass media, which has been shown to often present distorted and inaccurate fertility information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To investigate the effectiveness of brief intervention (BI) conducted in the workplace for heavy drinkers. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted at six companies in Japan. Participants were heavy drinkers who met the inclusion criteria and were randomized into three groups: the BI group, BI with diary group and a control group. Outcomes (total drinks, binge drinking episodes and alcohol-free days) were evaluated at 3 and 12 months. Results: The 304 participants recruited were allocated to the three groups and 277 participated in all follow-up evaluations. Dropout rates in the respective groups were 7.0, 14.9 and 5.5%. Some improvements were observed in all the groups. In particular, alcohol-free days in the BI group were significantly increased by 93.0% at 12 months. Total drinks at 12 months were reduced by 41 g per week in the BI group compared with the control group, although the intergroup difference was not significant. Conclusion: BI in the workplace is effective for increasing the number of alcohol-free days. However, the effectiveness on decreasing alcohol consumption was unclear, which could be explained by alcohol screening itself causing a reduction in drinking. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background A recent survey of 79 countries showed that fertility knowledge was lower in Japan than in any other developed country. Given the fertility decline in Japan and the importance of fertility knowledge, we conducted an online survey to examine fertility knowledge and the related factors for effective public education. Methods We studied people aged 18-59 years old, n = 4,328 (the "General" group), and also people who had been trying to conceive for at least six months, 18-50 years old, n = 618 (the "Triers" group). Fertility knowledge was assessed using the Japanese version of the 13-item Cardiff Fertility Knowledge Scale (CFKS-J). All participants provided socio-demographic and fertility information. Participants also completed a 14-item health literacy scale and an 11-item health numeracy scale. We asked participants who were aware of age-related decline in fertility when and where they first acquired that knowledge. Results The average percentages of CFKS-J items answered correctly were 53.1% in the Triers group and 44.4% in the General group (p < 0.001). Multivariate linear regression models showed in the Triers group greater fertility knowledge was associated with greater health literacy and prior medical consultation regarding their fertility. In the General group greater fertility knowledge was associated with being female, younger, university educated, currently trying to conceive, non-smoking, having higher household income, having higher health literacy and having higher health numeracy. Of those who were aware of the age-related decline in fertility, around 3% first learned the fact "at school," and around 65% first learned it "through mass media" or "via the Internet." More than 30% of the respondents first learned it "less than 5 years before" the survey. Conclusions Although fertility knowledge had improved since a previous study, possibly due to recent media coverage of age-related infertility, it was still low. Educational interventions, both in schools and in the community, may be needed to increase fertility knowledge in the general population because most people obtain fertility knowledge from mass media, which has been shown to often present distorted and inaccurate fertility information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the effects of wearing a compression garment (CG) for 24 h on changes in muscular strength and blood parameters over time after resistance exercise. METHODS: Nine trained men conducted resistance exercises (10 repetitions of 3-5 sets at 70% of one-repetition maximum (1RM) for nine exercises) in two trials, wearing either a CG or a normal garment (CON) for 24 h after exercise. Recovery of muscular strength, blood parameters, muscle soreness, and upper arm and thigh circumference were compared between the trials. RESULTS: Both trials showed decreases in maximal strength after the exercise (P < 0.05). However, the CG trial showed faster recovery of one-repetition maximum for the chest press from 3 to 8 h after exercise (P < 0.05). Recovery of maximal knee extension strength was also improved in the CG trial 24 h after exercise (P < 0.05). The CG trial was associated with lower muscle soreness and subjective fatigue scores the following morning (P < 0.05). The upper arm and thigh circumferences were significantly higher during the recovery period in the CON trial, whereas no change was observed in the CG trial. Blood lactate, insulin like growth factor-1, free testosterone, myoglobin, creatine kinase, interleukin 6, and interleukin 1 receptor antagonist concentrations for 24 h after exercise were similar in both trials. CONCLUSIONS: Wearing a CG after resistance exercise facilitates the recovery of muscular strength. Recovery for upper body muscles significantly improved within 3-8 h after exercise. However, facilitation of recovery of lower limb muscles by wearing the CG took a longer time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. The mechanisms of ectopic calcification in inflammatory diseases are poorly understood. We investigated the effects of inflammatory cytokines on the mechanisms of calcification in human adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADSCs).Methods. The effects of inflammatory cytokines were evaluated using hADSCs cultured in osteoblast induction medium. mRNA expression was measured by real-time PCR and protein levels were measured by western blotting. Cell mineralization was evaluated by Alizarin Red S staining.Results. In hADSCs, administration of IL-6/soluble IL-6 receptor (sIL-6R), TNF or IL-1β accelerated calcification through enhanced expression of an osteoblast differentiation marker, runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2). IL-6/sIL-6R had the greatest effect. The transcription of mRNA for receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 2 (ROR2), involved in the non-canonical wingless-type (WNT) MMTV integration site pathway, was increased, while β-catenin expression, an essential factor in the canonical WNT signalling pathway for osteoblast differentiation, did not change. Suppression of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), but not STAT1, by small interfering RNA (siRNA) exerted a strong inhibitory effect on RUNX2 and ROR2 expression, and inhibited accelerated calcification.Conclusion. IL-6/sIL-6R stimulation accelerated the ROR2/WNT5A pathway in hADSCs in a STAT3-dependent manner, resulting in augmented calcification. These results suggest that the mechanisms of ectopic calcification accelerated by IL-6 in hADSCs may be involved in chronic inflammatory tissues and that IL-6 inhibitors may be beneficial in the treatment of ectopic calcification in inflammatory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Purpose: Weight retention during the postpartum period is critical for the later development of obesity in women. Traditional physical activity is frequently discontinued because of incompatibility with mothers' agenda (i.e., baby care). In the present study, active video games (AVG) are proposed for postpartum women to improve their body composition. Methods: Thirty-four postpartum women (body mass index = 24.5 ± 3.4 kg•m) were randomized to an AVG group or a control group. Subjects assigned to the AVG group were given a Wii Nintendo console with the game Wii Fit Plus for 40 d. The two groups were tested for weight, body mass index, body fat mass, waist and hip circumferences, and other anthropometric parameters. Physical fitness, energy expenditure, energy intake, and adverse events were also investigated. Results: The AVG group lost more weight than the control group (-2.2 ± 0.9 vs. -0.5 ± 0.7 kg, P < 0.001). They also exhibited more important reductions of BMI, waist and hip circumferences, and body fat (P < 0.05). During the 40-d period, subjects expended an estimated 4682 ± 2874 kcal just by playing AVG. Daily energy intake was reduced by 206 ± 559 kcal. There were significant positive correlations between playing frequency, total playing time, total energy expenditure during the 40-d period, and decrease in daily energy intake respectively, and weight loss (P < 0.05). Playing time data suggested no conflict with baby care activities. Conclusions: AVGs could represent an interesting spare physical activity for postpartum women. In the present study, these games promoted physical activity, induced a reduction of energy intake, and subsequently minimized weight retention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this study were to identify the preoperative factors influencing ambulation ability at different postoperative time points after total hip arthroplasty (THA) and to examine the cutoff values of predictive preoperative factors by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Forty-eight women with unilateral THA were measured for hip extensor, hip abductor, and knee extensor muscle strength in both legs; hip pain (visual analog scale, VAS); and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test pre- and postoperatively. Multiple regression analysis indicated that preoperative knee extensor strength (β = -0.379, R2 = 0.409) at 3 weeks, hip abductor strength (β = -0.572, R2 = 0.570) at 4 months, and age (β = 0.758, R2 = 0.561) at 7 months were strongly associated with postoperative ambulation, measured using the TUG test. Optimal preoperative cutoff values for ambulation ability were 0.56Nm/kg for knee extensor strength, 0.24Nm/kg for hip abductor strength, and 73 years of age. Our results suggest that preoperative factors predicting ambulation ability vary by postoperative time point. Preoperative knee extensor strength, hip abductor strength, and age were useful predictors of ambulation ability at the early, middle, and late time points, respectively, after THA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. To identify the correlates of headaches in middle-aged women and investigate the effects of Tokishakuyakusan (TJ-23), a formula of traditional Japanese herbal therapy Kampo, on headache and concomitant depression. Methods. We examined crosssectionally the baseline records of 345 women aged 40-59 years who visited our menopause clinic. Among them, 37 women with headaches were treated with either hormone therapy (HT) or TJ-23; the data of these women were retrospectively analyzed to compare the effects of the treatment. Results. The women were classified into 4 groups on the basis of their headache frequency, and no significant intergroup differences were noted in the physical or lifestyle factors, except age. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the significant contributors to the women's headaches were their age (adjusted OR 0.92 (95% CI 0.88-0.97)) and their depressive symptoms (adjusted OR 1.73 (95% CI 1.39-2.16)). Compared to women treated with HT, women treated with TJ-23 reported relief from headaches (65% versus 29%) and concomitant depression (60% versus 24%) more frequently. Improvement in the scores of headaches and depression correlated significantly with TJ-23 treatment. Conclusions. Headache in middle-aged women is significantly associated with depression; TJ-23 could be effective for treating both of these symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study compared the accuracy of triaxial accelerometry and the doubly labelled water (DLW) method for measuring physical activity (PA) in Japanese adolescents. A total of sixty adolescents aged 12–15 years were analysed. The total energy expenditure (TEE) was measured over 7 d by the DLW method and with an EW4800P triaxial accelerometer (Panasonic Corporation). The measured (RMRm) and predicted RMR (RMRp) were 5·7 (sd 0·9) and 6·0 (sd 1·0) MJ/d, respectively. TEE measured by the DLW method and accelerometry using RMRm or RMRp were 11·0 (sd 2·6), 10·3 (sd 1·9), and 10·7 (sd 2·1) MJ/d, respectively. The PA levels (PAL) measured by the DLW method using RMRm or RMRp were 1·97 (sd 0·31) and 1·94 (sd 0·31) in subjects who exercised, and 1·85 (sd 0·27) and 1·74 (sd 0·29) in subjects who did not exercise. The percentage of body fat correlated significantly with the percentage difference between RMRmv. RMRp, TEE, PA energy expenditure (PAEE) and PAL using RMRp, and PAL using RMRm assessed by the DLW method and accelerometry. The present data showed that while accelerometry estimated TEE accurately, it did not provide the precise measurement of PAEE and PAL. The error in accelerometry was attributed to the prediction error of RMR and assessment in exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of Nordic walking with conventional walking and band-based resistance exercise on functional fitness, static balance and dynamic balance in older adults. Volunteers (n = 65) were divided into four groups: Nordic walking (NW), conventional walking (CW), resistance (RES), and control. Each group performed activity 50-70 min·day-1 (warm-up 10-15 min, main exercise 30-40, and cool down 10-15 min), 3 days·week-1 (NW and CW) or 2 day·week-1 (RES) for 12 wks. Upper-body strength improved (p < 0.05) in the RES (22.3%) and the NW (11.6%) groups compared to the CW and control groups. Cardio-respiratory fitness improved more in the NW (10.9%) and CW (10.6%) groups compared to the RES and control groups. Upper- and lowerbody flexibility also improved in all exercise groups compared to the control group. There were no improvements in balance measures in any group. While all modes of exercise improved various components of fitness, Nordic walking provided the best well-rounded benefits by improving upper-body strength, cardiovascular endurance, and flexibility. Therefore, Nordic walking is recommended as an effective and efficient mode of concurrent exercise to improve overall functional fitness in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Early treatment of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) can be associated with improved patient outcomes. The Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare (JMHW) and the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) criteria are the most specific for diagnosis of septic DIC. The revised Japanese Association for Acute Medicine (JAAM) criteria are able to diagnose sepsis-induced DIC in the early stage. Recombinant human soluble thrombomodulin (rhTM) has recently been used for treating DIC. Previous studies have shown a benefit of using rhTM for DIC diagnosed by the JMHW or ISTH criteria, but not the JAAM criteria. The purpose of this study was to sequentially evaluate coagulation biomarkers and the DIC score after giving rhTM treatment to patients with sepsis-induced DIC diagnosed according to the JAAM criteria. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study. Critically ill patients were included if diagnosed with sepsisinduced DIC according to the JAAM criteria. They were either treated without rhTM (control group) or with rhTM (treatment group). The primary outcome was the DIC score on day 7. The secondary outcome was 28-day mortality from the start of DIC treatment. Changes in the results of coagulation tests were assessed over time from the start of treatment to day 7. Results: Twelve and 23 patients were assigned to the treatment and control groups, respectively. The DIC score on day 7 was significantly higher in the treatment group (3.3 ± 1.4) than in the control group (4.9 ± 1.8, p < 0.05). Estimated survival showed lower in treatment group than control group. There was significant difference between the control group and the treatment group (p < 0.05). The D-dimer level on day 7 was significantly lower in the treatment group (7.5 ± 4.1 μg/mL) than in the control group (30.9 ± 33.6 μg/mL, p < 0.05). Life-threatening bleeding did not occur. Our results indicated that rhTM improved sepsis-induced DIC and mortality. Conclusions: Recombinant human soluble thrombomodulin may improve sepsis-induced DIC diagnosed according to the JAAM criteria without an increased bleeding risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. In RA, response to TNF blockers may be associated with a profile of cytokine production unique to each patient. This study sought to predict the response to biologic agents by examining pro-inflammatory cytokine synthesis in stimulated whole blood cultures (WBCs).Methods. We measured the concentration of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in supernatants of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated WBCs obtained from RA patients (n = 41) before anti-TNF therapy (infliximab, 13; etanercept, 26; and adalimumab, 2) and from healthy controls (n = 12). At 24 weeks after biologics, whole bloods were again drawn from 14 of 41 patients. Response was defined by the European League Against Rheumatism response criteria after 24 weeks of therapy.Results. Among 41 patients, 32 were responders (good 14/moderate 18), while 9 were non-responders. All cytokines measured were significantly lower in RA patients than in controls. In RA, IL-1β production was lower in non-responders than in responders [median (interquartile range): 3.5 (1.5–9.4) vs 10.0 (5.1–93.1) pg/ml, P = 0.048]. The area under the curve from a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for the prediction of response using IL-1β was 0.717 (95% CI 0.520, 0.914). The sensitivity and specificity of IL-1β (cut-off value 4.84 pg/ml) was 78.1 and 77.8%, respectively. All cytokines were significantly higher 6 months later compared with their respective baseline.Conclusion. IL-1β measurement in LPS-stimulated WBC is useful to predict responsiveness to anti-TNF agents. Cytokine production capacities in LPS-stimulated WBCs are up-regulated by biologics. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

We previously suggested that the consumption of natto and viscous vegetables as part of a Japanese-style meal based on white rice (WR) reduced postprandial glucose and insulin levels in healthy subjects. The aim of the present study was to assess whether a single breakfast of natto and viscous vegetables or the same breakfast consumed for 2 weeks could improve glucose control, insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism and oxidative stress in overweight subjects with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). A total of eleven free-living subjects with IGT followed a randomised, crossover breakfast intervention for 2 weeks. The test meal included boiled WR with natto (viscous fermented soyabeans), Japanese yam and okra. The control meal included WR with non-viscous boiled soyabeans, potatoes and broccoli. Both meals contained comparable amounts of carbohydrate, fat, protein and fibre. The test meal reduced acute glucose and insulin responses compared to the control meal in the study participants. Insulin sensitivity was assessed using the composite insulin sensitivity index (CISI) after both the test and control meal periods. The test meal resulted in improvements in CISI compared to the baseline, whereas no significant changes were observed after the control meal period. Serum levels of both total and LDL-cholesterol were assessed before and after the test meal period and found to decrease significantly. There was also a tendency towards reduced serum malondialdehyde-modified LDL and Nɛ-carboxymethyllysine. No differences were observed in the measures of chronic glycaemic control. Thus, we conclude that a breakfast of natto and viscous vegetables consumed for 2 weeks improves insulin sensitivity, serum lipid and oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Capsinoids--nonpungent capsaicin analogs--are known to activate brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenesis and whole-body energy expenditure (EE) in small rodents. BAT activity can be assessed by [l8F)fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission to-mography (FDG-PET) in humans. Objectives: The aims of the current study were to examine the acute effects of capsinoid ingestion on EE and to analyze its relation to BAT activity in humans. Design: Eighteen healthy men aged 20-32 y underwent FDG-PET after 2 h of cold exposure (19°C) while wearing light clothing. Whole-body EE and skin temperature, after oral ingestion of cap-sinoids (9 mg), were measured for 2 h under warm conditions (27°C) in a single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover design. Results: When exposed to cold, 10 subjects showed marked FDG uptake into adipose tissue of the supraclavicular and paraspinal regions (BAT-positive group), whereas the remaining 8 subjects (BAT-negative group) showed no detectable uptake. Under warm conditions (27°C), the mean (±SEM) resting EE was 6114 ± 226 kJ/d in the BAT-positive group and 6307 ± 156 kJ/d in the BAT-negative group (NS). EE increased by 15.2 ± 2.6 kJ/h in I h in the BAT-positive group and by 1.7 ± 3.8 kJ/h in the BAT-negative group after oral ingestion of capsinoids (P < 0.01). Placebo inges-tion produced no significant change in either group. Neither capsi-noids nor placebo changed the skin temperature in various regions, including regions close to BAT deposits. Conclusion: Capsinoid ingestion increases EE through the activation of BAT in humans. This trial was registered at http://www.umin.ac. jp/ctr/ as UMIN 000006073. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the effects of purified eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on vascular endothelial function and free fatty acid composition in Japanese hyperlipidemic subjects. In subjects with hyperlipidemia (total cholesterol ⩾ 220 mg/dL and/or triglycerides ⩾ 150 mg/dL), lipid profile and forearm blood flow (FBF) during reactive hyperemia were determined before and 3 months after supplementation with 1800 mg/day EPA. Peak FBF during reactive hyperemia was lower in the hyperlipidemic group than the normolipidemic group. EPA supplementation did not change serum levels of total, HDL, or LDL cholesterol, apolipoproteins, remnant-like particle (RLP) cholesterol, RLP triglycerides, or malondialdehyde-modified LDL cholesterol. EPA supplementation did not change total free fatty acid levels in serum, but changed the fatty acid composition, with increased EPA and decreased linoleic acid, γ-linolenic acid, and dihomo-γ-linolenic acid. EPA supplementation recovered peak FBF after 3 months. Peak FBF recovery was correlated positively with EPA and EPA/arachidonic acid levels and correlated inversely with dihomo-γ-linolenic acid. EPA supplementation restores endothelium-dependent vasodilatation in hyperlipidemic patients despite having no effect on serumcholesterol and triglyceride patterns. These results suggest that EPA supplementationmay improve vascular function at least partly via changes in fatty acid composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is difficult to study the mechanisms of the metabolic syndrome in humans due to the heterogeneous genetic background and lifestyle. The present study investigated changes in the gene and protein profiles in an animal model of the metabolic syndrome to identify the molecular targets associated with the pathogenesis and progression of obesity related to the metabolic syndrome. Methods: We extracted mRNAs and proteins from the liver tissues of 6- and 25-week-old spontaneously hypertensive/NIH -corpulent rat SHR/NDmcr-cp (CP), SHR/Lean (Lean) and Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) and performed microarray analysis and two-dimensional difference in gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) linked to a matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/TOF MS). Results: The microarray analysis identified 25 significantly up-regulated genes (P < 0.01; log10 > 1) and 31 significantly down-regulated genes (P < 0.01; log10 < ?1) in 6- and 25-week-old CP compared with WKY and Lean. Several of these genes are known to be involved in important biological processes such as electron transporter activity, electron transport, lipid metabolism, ion transport, transferase, and ion channel activity. MALDI-TOF/TOF MS identified 31 proteins with ±1.2 fold change (P < 0.05) in 6- and 25-week-old CP, compared with age-matched WKY and Lean. The up-regulated proteins are involved in metabolic processes, biological regulation, catalytic activity, and binding, while the down-regulated proteins are involved in endoplasmic reticulum stress-related unfolded protein response. Conclusion: Genes with significant changes in their expression in transcriptomic analysis matched very few of the proteins identified in proteomics analysis. However, annotated functional classifications might provide an important reference resource to understand the pathogenesis of obesity associated with the metabolic syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To determine the factors associated with the development of amacular hole (MH) after successful rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) surgery. Methods. Of 1260 eyes that underwent surgery for RRD between April 2005 and March 2010 in our hospital, the medical records of 4 cases from our hospital and one case from another hospital that had undergone RRD surgery and later developed MH were reviewed. This is a retrospective study. Results. 837 eyes underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with or without scleral buckling (SB), and 423 eyes underwent SB. The four cases that developed MH had PPV alone and one case had PPV with SB. After including the results of three earlier reports, the mean interval for the MH to develop after SB alone was significantly shorter than after PPV alone or after PPV with SB. Conclusions. The SB procedures might accelerate the development of MH after RRD surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study design:Non-randomized study.Objectives:Previous studies indicated that at least 2-h leg exercise at more than 60% maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max) increased plasma interleukin (IL)-6 in able-bodied (AB) subjects. The purpose of the present study was to compare IL-6 response to arm exercise in AB subjects and persons with spinal cord injury (SCI).Setting:Wakayama Medical University in Japan.Methods:Six subjects with SCI between T6 and T10 and seven AB subjects performed 2-h arm crank ergometer exercise at 60%VO2max. Plasma catecholamines, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were measured before exercise, 60-min exercise, immediately and 2 h after the completion of exercise.Results:Arm exercise increased myoglobin and plasma IL-6 levels in SCI and AB (P<0.01), but there were no differences in them between the two groups throughout the study. Plasma levels creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, TNF-α and hsCRP did not change throughout the study in both groups.Conclusion:These findings suggest neither significant muscle damage nor inflammatory response during exercise. The increase in plasma IL-6 in SCI was not unexpected, confirming that moderate intensity and relatively long-arm exercise is safe and beneficial for SCI subjects with regard to IL-6 excretion, as in AB subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the impact of force and acceleration on electromechanical delay (EMD). It describes EMD as a series of complex processes under which electrial stimulus are converted into a mechanical response and discusses the methodology of the study that was conducted on 10 healthy male volunteers who underwent two experimental sessions performed on an ergometer designed to measure the force produced by the elbow flexors at a wide range of elbow joint angles. It concludes that prolongation of EMD at short muscle-tendon length in the human biceps brachii muscle is due to increased slack within the muscle-tendon unit and not of impairment of the electrochemical process of muscle contraction.

The article discusses a study which examined the effect of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on osteoclast function and differentiation, and its use in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) therapy. It offers information on the inhibition of osteoclastogenesis through osteoprotegerin (OPG) production, and explains the role of MSCs in osteoclastogenesis inhibition. The methods and materials used in the study, and the study results are also discussed in detail.

Objective. Although findings of nail-fold capillary changes and reduced red blood cell velocity in SSc patients are well established, studies in adult-onset DM patients are scarce. Our objective was to assess the changes and red blood cell velocity in finger nail-fold capillaries using nail-fold video capillaroscopy (NVC) in patients with adult-onset DM.Methods. This study included 50 patients with adult-onset DM and 20 healthy subjects. A semi-quantitative rating scale was used to score capillaroscopy changes. Red blood cell velocity was evaluated using frame-to-frame determination of the position of capillary plasma gaps.Results. Thirty-seven (74%) patients showed the scleroderma NVC pattern. Patients with the scleroderma pattern exhibited elevated serum creatine kinase levels more frequently and increased visual analogue scale of muscle disease activity. Scores of loss of capillaries were associated with muscle and global disease activity, whereas scores of haemorrhages were associated with skin disease activity. However, NVC findings were not significantly associated with lung involvement. The scores of irregularly enlarged capillaries, haemorrhages and loss of capillaries were reduced after stabilization of disease activity by treatment. The mean red blood cell velocity was not significantly reduced in DM patients compared with healthy controls and was not changed by treatment.Conclusion. Our results suggest that changes in nail-fold capillaries reflect disease activity in DM. Furthermore, the differences found in red blood cell velocity may reflect somewhat distinct microcirculation injuries in DM and SSc. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Aims: The purpose of this study was to determine whether diabetes affects relationships between alcohol intake and atherosclerotic risk factors. Methods: Age- and alcohol intake-matched groups of Japanese men with and without diabetes (each group: n = 1440) were prepared. Relationships of alcohol intake with atherosclerotic risk factors were compared among four subgroups divided by alcohol intake [non-, light (<22 g/day), moderate (≥22 and <44 g/day) and heavy (≥44 g/day) drinkers]. Results: Both in diabetic and non-diabetic groups, blood pressure was significantly higher in moderate and heavy drinkers than in non-drinkers, triglycerides were significantly higher in heavy drinkers than in non-drinkers, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol was significantly higher in all drinker groups than in non-drinkers. In the diabetic group, body mass index (BMI) was significantly lower (P < 0.01) in moderate and heavy drinkers than in non-drinkers [26.11 ± 0.17 kg/m2 (non-drinkers) vs. 24.83 ± 0.19 kg/m2 (moderate drinkers) vs. 24.97 ± 0.23 kg/m2 (heavy drinkers)], while these differences were not found in the non-diabetic group [23.33 ± 0.13 kg/m2 (non-drinkers) vs. 23.30 ± 0.15 kg/m2 (moderate drinkers) vs. 23.46 ± 0.18 kg/m2 (heavy drinkers)]. Both in the diabetic and non-diabetic groups, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol was significantly lower in moderate and heavy drinkers than in non-drinkers. In the non-diabetic group, LDL cholesterol was also significantly lower in light drinkers than in non-drinkers [124.7 ± 1.3 mg/dl (non-drinkers) vs. 114.5 ± 2.4 mg/dl (light drinkers), P < 0.01], while this difference was not found in the diabetic group [123.6 ± 1.4 mg/dl (non-drinkers) vs. 123.1 ± 2.6 mg/dl (light drinkers)]. Conclusion: The positive associations of alcohol intake with blood pressure, triglycerides and HDL cholesterol are similar in men with and without diabetes, while the negative associations of alcohol intake with BMI and LDL cholesterol are stronger and weaker, respectively, in men with diabetes than in men without diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose Drainage after surgery is commonly used, and the contents are generally discarded as clinical waste. We analyzed closed suction drainage fluid from hip arthroplasty patients to determine whether any multipotent stem cells were present that could be used as a source of cells for tissue regeneration. Methods Drainage fluid was obtained from 14 patients after hip arthroplasty on the day of surgery, the next day, and 2 days after surgery. Peripheral blood and bone marrow from the iliac crest were also obtained from the same patients during surgery. These samples were examined using regular flow cytometric profiling, and we performed quantitative immunoassays of stromal-derived factor-1 (SDF1) levels in the plasma. Mononuclear cells (MNCs) from these samples were also isolated and cultured. Fibroblastic adherent cells from MNC fractions were cultured in an osteogenic and a chondrogenic differentiation medium and were then evaluated for multipotentency. Results and interpretation Fibroblastic adherent cells were isolated from the mononuclear cell fraction of bone marrow and drainage fluid on the day of surgery, but they were not present in either the mononuclear cell fraction of the peripheral blood or the drainage fluid on the next day and 2 days after surgery. The cells from the drainage fluid on the day of surgery could differentiate in vitro into osteogenic and chondrogenic cells. SDF1 was elevated on the day of surgery, while CXCR4 was elevated on that day and the next day. This suggests that locally-induced SDF1 contributes to the mobilization of circulating CXCR4-positive cells. These results show that the drainage fluid collected on the day of surgery contains stem/progenitor cells that could be used for autologous cell-based therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To determine the presence or extent of arginine deficiency in pressure ulcer (PU) patients on percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) feeding and to examine the effects of arginine supplementation on PU healing. Design: All eligible PEG patients, with and without PU, were cross-sectionally assessed for plasma arginine. Three-month supplementation with arginine-enriched water (Arginaid Water) was performed on a subset of patients with PU. This intervention study was a prospective, non-controlled trial with 5 PU patients. Setting: Geriatric ward of a rural clinical hospital in Japan. Participants: Thirty-nine inpatients with PEG feeding were assessed for plasma arginine. Five of the 13 patients with PU and five of 26 patients without PU underwent amino acid profiling. Intervention: Five of the patients with PU received Arginaid Water supplementation. Measurements: Plasma amino acid measurements and biochemical analyses were performed. For those with PU on Arginaid Water supplementation, plasma arginine concentration and PU status were monitored every month. Results: Patients with PU showed significantly lower plasma arginine concentration compared to those without PU (control vs. PU; 80.2±21.3 vs 62.8±14.7 nmol/ml, p<0.01). After the addition of Arginaid Water, plasma arginine concentration increased (before vs 3 months later; 57.9±1.8 vs 83.1±8.5, p<0.01), and PU area, perimeter, DESIGN-R and PUSH scores significantly improved. Conclusion: Plasma arginine was lower in PEG patients with PU. The healing rate of PU is improved with Arginaid Water supplementation. The findings from this study support the use of arginine supplementation in PEG patients with PU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A traditional Japanese medicine, daikenchuto (DKT), is used for treating abdominal bloating and pain with coldness. In modern medicine, it is used to treat postoperative intestinal dysfunction and ileus. We previously showed the effective improvement in functional constipation with DKT in poststroke patients. However, response prediction for the treatment has not been elucidated. We investigated the data from the prior trial (UMIN000007393) to predict the DKT treatment response. We assessed the efficacy of DKT for chronic constipation in poststroke patients. Neurogenic bowel dysfunction score (NBDS) and the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale–constipation subscale (GSRS-C) score were newly analyzed comparing the pre- and postintervention data after intake of 15 g of DKT extract granule daily for 4 weeks. Single and multiple regression analyses were performed to examine the correlations between the changes in NBDS, GSRS-C score, patient characteristics, clinical symptom score, gas volume in the gut, and serum calcitonin gene–related peptide level. The total NBDS and GSRS-C score were significantly reduced after DKT administration. The total NBDS, GSRS-C score, and gas volume score at baseline were significantly correlated with the change in these scores. Higher NBDS and GSRS-C scores and more gas volume in the gut may be possible predictors of response to DKT when treating constipation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]