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Context: Plantar intrinsic foot muscle strength training is difficult to master to a degree sufficient to elicit muscle hypertrophy in most individuals. It is possible that combining neuromuscular electrostimulation (NMES) and blood flow restriction (BFR) can elicit plantar intrinsic foot muscle hypertrophy regardless of the individual's technique. This study aimed to determine the effects of NMES training with BFR on acute muscle swelling in the abductor hallucis. Design: Randomized, controlled, single-blind trial design. Methods: Forty-eight participants were randomly allocated to the NMES + BFR, NMES, or Sham NMES + BFR groups. All participants received abductor hallucis NMES for 15 minutes. Participants in the NMES + BFR and Sham NMES + BFR groups received NMES with BFR. The intensity of NMES was the sensory threshold in the Sham NMES + BFR group. The cross-sectional area of the abductor hallucis was measured pretraining and posttraining using ultrasonography by a single investigator blinded to the participants' allocations. Results: After 15 minutes of training, the cross-sectional area of the abductor hallucis was significantly increased in the NMES + BFR (P<.001) and the Sham NMES + BFR (P = .004) groups. Moreover, the rate of increase was significantly higher in the NMES + BFR group than in the NMES or the Sham NMES + BFR groups (P<.001 and P = . 001, respectively). Conclusions: Since it is possible that the amount of muscle swelling immediately after training correlates with muscle hypertrophy when training is continued, the results of this study suggest that NMES training with BFR is a training method that can be expected to produce plantar intrinsic foot muscle hypertrophy. Further studies are needed to confirm the long-term effects of NMES training with BFR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There has been a significant increase in scientific investigations of the hearing‐dementia association among the research on potentially modifiable risk factors for cognitive impairment. We tested two clinical questions. Analysis 1: does persistent hearing aid (HA) use decrease the decline in cognitive function caused by ageing? Analysis 2: does cognitive function at the time of HA fitting predict future persistent HA use? Methods: This case–control study performed at two referral centres reported data obtained over a 4.5‐year period. We recruited a group of patients with cognitive decline, aged 65 or older with or without hearing loss. The intervention consisted of the use of HAs. The primary outcome measures were adherence to continuous HA use and cognitive function measured using the Japanese version of the Mini‐Mental State Examination Test and the Reading Cognitive Test Kyoto. Results: Eighteen HA users and 18 controls were included in the first analysis. HA use was associated with a deceleration of cognitive decline 12 months later. In the second analysis, 11 participants with good adherence to HA use were compared with 12 participants who showed poor adherence to HA use. Among the variables employed in this study, cognitive function measured using the Reading Cognitive Test Kyoto was significantly lower in participants with poor adherence to HA. Conclusions: HA use in cognitively impaired individuals with hearing loss can slow age‐related cognitive decline. Cognitively impaired people with hearing loss who fail to commit to HA use tend to have lower cognitive measurement scores before HA fitting. HA use is generally more challenging as people age and their cognitive abilities decline. Therefore, it is desirable that HAs be used when hearing loss and dementia are in their early stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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]

Aim: The gut microbiota has emerged as a new intervention target for sarcopenia. Prior studies in humans have focused on the association between gut microbiota and skeletal muscle quantity, while the evidence on muscle function and quality is lacking. This study aimed to identify gut microbiota genera associated with skeletal muscle function, quantity, and quality in a general population of Japanese adults. Methods: This cross‐sectional study included 164 participants aged 35–80 years, women and men recruited from urban areas of Japan. Fecal samples were collected and analyzed using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Skeletal muscle function was measured using handgrip strength and leg extension power (LEP), while skeletal muscle mass was estimated using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Phase angle was used as a measure of skeletal muscle quality. Multivariate linear regression analysis stratified by age group was used to examine the association between the dominant genera of the gut microbiota and skeletal muscle variables. Results: A significant association was found between Bacteroides and Prevotella 9 with LEP only in the ≥60 years group. When both Bacteroides and Prevotella 9 were included in the same regression model, only Bacteroides remained consistently and significantly associated with LEP. No significant associations were observed between skeletal muscle mass, handgrip strength, and phase angle and major gut microbiota genera. Conclusions: In this study, we observed a significant positive association between Bacteroides and leg muscle function in older adults. Further studies are required to elucidate the underlying mechanisms linking Bacteroides to lower‐extremity muscle function. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 53–60. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the characteristics of physical activity according to sit-to-stand, standing, and stand-to-sit abilities in subacute stroke with walking difficulty. In this study, 29 participants with subacute stroke and walking difficulty were enrolled and classified into two groups: participants who successfully completed three items (i.e., sit-to-stand, standing, and stand-to-sit) of the Functional Balance Scale (independent group, n = 13) and those who showed incomplete scores on any of the three items (dependent group, n = 16). Light-intensity physical activity (LIPA) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) were measured using an accelerometer at three periods (i.e. daytime, therapy time, and non-therapy time) for a week. Two-way analysis of variance (groups × physical activity intensity) demonstrated a significant interaction in each period. Post-hoc tests showed significantly more LIPAs and MVPAs in the independent group in all periods, except for MVPA in the non-therapy time. Particularly, LIPA showed significant between-group differences in each period. Among individuals with subacute stroke and walking difficulty, those who could completely perform sit-to-stand, standing, and stand-to-sit could perform more LIPAs. Increasing sit-to-stand, standing, and stand-to-sit abilities could be an important factor in increasing the opportunity to perform LIPAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to analyze associations between lifestyle-related factors and body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure (BP) in middle-aged and older people in Japan. An association analysis using a multilevel model with demographic and lifestyle-related factors as variables and with BMI, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) as outcomes was conducted. Among the modifiable lifestyle factors, we found a significant dose-response association for BMI and slower eating (fast: reference; normal: −0.123 kg/m2 and slow: −0.256 kg/m2). Consuming >60 g/d ethanol was significantly associated, before and after adjustment for BMI, with an increase in SBP of 3.109 and 2.893 mm Hg, respectively. These findings suggested that health guidance should focus on factors such as the eating rate and drinking habits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: COPD is characterized by progressive and irreversible air flow limitations. Single-inhaler therapies (SITTs) incorporating an inhaled corticosteroid, a long-acting muscarinic antagonist, and a long-acting β2-agonist have been shown to effectively alleviate symptoms and improve lung function. Fluticasone-furoate/umeclidinium/vilanterol (F/U/V) and budesonide/glyco-pyrronium/formoterol (B/G/F) are available as SITT in Japan. However, the clinical differences between these 2 combinations and the predictors of their proper use have not been established. This study aimed to identify the subject characteristics that could predict the effectiveness of inhaler therapy. METHODS: We assessed the pulmonary function test results of subjects with COPD before and one month after using F/U/V and B/G/F as SITT. Subjects with a difference of 100 mL or more in the FEV1 after treatment with pre-SITT were extracted and divided into the F/U/V effect and no-effect group and B/G/F effect and no-effect group to examine the factors associated with positive outcomes with each inhaler. RESULTS: F/U/V and B/G/F significantly improved the inspiratory capacity (IC), %IC, FVC, and %FEV1 when compared to pre-inter-vention values (P < .001, P = .001, P = .007, P = .009, respectively, for F/U/V; and P = .006, P = .008, P = .038, P = .005, respectively, for B/G/F). Factors associated with FEV1 improvement in F/U/V included lower %IC (odds ratio 0.97 [95% CI 0.94-0.99], P = .03) and a higher modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnea score (2.36 [1.27-4.70], P < .01). In addition, a higher %IC (1.03 [1.00-1.06], P = .02) and lower mMRC dyspnea score (0.55 [0.28-0.99], P = .041) were predictors for the effectiveness of B/G/F. CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed that SITT significantly improved the IC, %IC, FVC, and %FEV1 when compared to pre-inter-vention and that F/U/V was more effective in subjects with severe symptoms, whereas B/G/F was more effective in subjects with mild symptoms. [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]

Context: A recent review or article reported that thermal agents (TA) or physical activity (PA) can increase range of motion (ROM) and that the combination of TA with stretching is superior to performing stretching only. However, since ROM is affected by the psychological factors, it is questionable whether these studies measured the effect of these interventions on muscle flexibility. By measuring muscle stiffness, the authors attempted to evaluate the effect these interventions on muscle flexibility. Objective: To compare the individual effects of TA and PA on muscle flexibility, as well as their effectiveness when combined with static stretching (SS). Design: Crossover trial. Setting: University research laboratory. Participants: 15 healthy men without a history of orthopedic disease in their lower limbs. Interventions: 15 minutes of 3 different conditions: hot pack as TA, pedaling exercise as PA, and the control group with no TA or PA intervention, followed by 3 min of SS for the hamstrings. Main Outcome Measures: Joint angle and passive torque of the knee during passive elongation were obtained prior to interventions, after 3 kinds of intervention, and after SS. From these data, muscle-tendon-unit (MTU) stiffness of the hamstrings was calculated. Results: Although knee-joint ROM increased with both TA and PA (P < .05), there were no significant differences in MTU stiffness between pre- and postintervention measurements for either of the interventions (TA, P = .477; PA, P = .377; control, P = .388). However, there were similar significant decreases in MTU stiffness between postintervention and post-SS for all conditions (P < .01). Conclusions: TA and PA did not decrease MTU stiffness, and combining these interventions with SS did not provide additional decreases in MTU stiffness compared with performing SS alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This observational study aimed to describe the rate and degree of difficult experiences with COVID‐19 pandemic‐related changes (DE) during pregnancy, clarify the relationship between DE and self‐compassion of women postnatally, and investigate the influence of compassion from a partner (CP) and compassion from the woman's mother (CM) on this relationship. Methods: Data from 46 1‐month postnatal women in Japan were collected through a self‐report questionnaire from October to December 2020. Self‐compassion was measured using the Japanese version of the Self‐Compassion Scale; DE, CP, and CM were measured using original questions based on prior studies. Results: Almost all participants (97.8%) experienced more than one DE during pregnancy. Data analyses revealed that DE in maternity hospitals (d = 0.76), DE in social support (d = 0.53), and CM (d = 0.64) were associated with self‐compassion. A two‐way analysis of variance suggested that CM moderated the relationship between self‐compassion and DE in preparation for the baby (η2 = 0.11) and the birth plan (η2 = 0.11), whereas CP moderated the relationship between self‐compassion and DE in social support (η2 = 0.07). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that self‐compassion negatively correlates with DE in maternity hospitals and social support. Additionally, CM may buffer the influence of DE in preparation for the baby and the birth plan on self‐compassion; moreover, CP may buffer the influence of DE in social support on self‐compassion. This study highlights the importance of supporting perinatal women to adapt to COVID‐19‐related changes through cooperation with their families, which may increase self‐compassion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effect of foot progression angle on the reduction in knee adduction moment caused by a lateral wedged insole during walking. Twenty healthy, young volunteers walked 10 m at their comfortable velocity wearing a lateral wedged insole or control flat insole in 3 foot progression angle conditions: natural, toe-out, and toe-in. A 3-dimensional rigid link model was used to calculate the external knee adduction moment, the moment arm of ground reaction force to knee joint center, and the reduction ratio of knee adduction moment and moment arm. The result indicated that the toe-out condition and lateral wedged insole decreased the knee adduction moment in the whole stance phase. The reduction ratio of the knee adduction moment and the moment arm exhibited a close relationship. Lateral wedged insoles decreased the knee adduction moment in various foot progression angle conditions due to decrease of the moment arm of the ground reaction force. Moreover, the knee adduction moment during the toe-out gait with lateral wedged insole was the smallest due to the synergistic effect of the lateral wedged insole and foot progression angle. Lateral wedged insoles may be a valid intervention for patients with knee osteoarthritis regardless of the foot progression angle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although there have been many investigations of the beneficial effects of both exercise and amino acids (AAs), little is known about their combined effects on the single-dose ingestion of AAs for lipid metabolism during exercise. We hypothesize that taking a specific combination of AAs implicated in glucagon secretion during exercise may increase fat metabolism. We recently developed a new mixture, d-AA mixture (D-mix), that contains arginine, alanine, and phenylalanine to investigate fat oxidation. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study, 10 healthy male volunteers were randomized to ingest either D-mix (3 g/dose) or placebo. Subjects in each condition subsequently performed a physical task that included workload trials on a cycle ergometer at 50% of maximal oxygen consumption for 1 hr. After oral intake of D-mix, maximum serum concentrations of glycerol (9.32 ± 6.29 mg/L and 5.22 ± 2.22 mg/L, respectively; p = .028), free fatty acid level (0.77 ± 0.26 mEq/L and 0.63 ± 0.28 mEq/L, respectively; p = .022), and acetoacetic acid levels (37.9 ± 17.7 µmol/L and 30.3 ± 13.9 µmol/L, respectively; p = .040) were significantly higher than in the placebo groups. The area under the curve for glucagon during recovery was numerically higher than placebo (6.61 ± 1.33 µg/L ⋅ min and 6.06 ± 1.23 µg/L ⋅ min, respectively;p = .099). These results suggest thatpreexercise ingestion of D-mix may stimulate fat metabolism. Combined with exercise, the administration of AA mixtures could prove to be a useful nutritional strategy to maximize fat metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine whether a lateral wedge insole reduces the external knee adduction moment during slope walking. Twenty young, healthy subjects participated in this study. Subjects walked up and down a slope using 2 different insoles: a control flat insole and a 7° lateral wedge insole. A three-dimensional motion analysis system and force plate were used to examine the knee adduction moment, the ankle valgus moment, and the moment arm of the ground reaction force to the knee joint center in the frontal plane. The lateral wedge insole significantly decreased the moment arm of the ground reaction force, resulting in a reduction of the knee adduction moment during slope walking, similar to level walking. The reduction ratio of knee adduction moment by the lateral wedge insole during the early stance of up-slope walking was larger than that of level walking. Conversely, the lateral wedge insole increased the ankle valgus moment during slope walking, especially during the early stance phase of up-slope walking. Clinicians should examine the utilization of a lateral wedge insole for knee osteoarthritis patients who perform inclined walking during daily activity, in consideration of the load on the ankle joint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aims High-intensity static stretching is assumed to increase the range of motion and/or decrease muscle stiffness; however, the effects of high-intensity static stretching on the quadriceps muscle have been debated. Hot pack application before high-intensity static stretching was assumed to decrease stretching pain, which is the main problem in high-intensity static stretching, and decrease quadriceps muscle stiffness. This study aimed to examine hot pack application before high-intensity static stretching on stretching pain, knee flexion range of motion, and quadriceps muscle stiffness. Methods In total, 21 healthy sedentary male participants randomly performed two interventions: high-intensity static stretching and hot pack application before stretching. Static stretching was performed at three 60-second stretching interventions with a 30-second interval. Then, a 20-minute hot pack was applied before high-intensity static stretching. The knee flexion range of motion and shear elastic modulus of the quadriceps muscle were measured by ultrasonic shear-wave elastography before and after the static stretching intervention. Results Stretching pain after hot pack application before stretching was lower than high-intensity static stretching alone. Significant increases were also found in knee flexion range of motion after both stretching interventions, but no significant difference was noted in the increase in the knee flexion range of motion with or without hot pack application. No significant change was found in quadriceps muscle stiffness in either intervention. conclusions The results suggest that hot pack application before high-intensity static stretching could decrease stretching pain, but no significant difference in knee flexion range of motion increase was found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Posterior ankle impingement syndrome is a common disorder in soccer players and ballet dancers. In soccer players, it is caused by the repetitive stress of ankle plantar flexion due to instep kicking. Protective ankle dorsiflexion taping is recommended with the belief that it prevents posterior ankle impingement. However, the relationship between ankle taping and ball-kicking performance remains unclear. Objective: To demonstrate the relationship between the restrictions of ankle taping and performance of an instep kick in soccer. Design: Laboratory-hased repeated-measures. Setting: University laboratory. Participants: 11 male university soccer players. Intervention: The subjects' ankle plantar flexion was limited by taping. Four angles of planter flexion (0°, 15°, 30°, and without taping) were formed by gradation limitation. The subjects performed maximal instep kicks at each angle. Main Outcome Measures: The movements o f the kicking legs and the ball were captured using 3 high-speed cameras at 200 Hz. The direct linear-transformation method was used to obtain 3-dimensional coordinates using a digitizing system. Passive ankle plantar-flexion angle, maximal plantar-flexion angle at ball impact, ball velocity, and foot velocity were measured. The data were compared among 4 conditions using repeated-measures ANOVA, and the correlations between ball velocity and foot velocity and between ball velocity and toe velocity were calculated. Results: Ankle dorsiflexion taping could gradually limit both passive plantar flexion and plantar flexion at the impact. Furthermore, limitation of 0° and 15° reduced the ball velocity generated by instep kicks. Conclusion: Plantar-flexion-limiting taping at 30° has a potential to prevent posterior ankle impingement without decreasing the ball velocity generated by soccer instep kicks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Abnormal scapular kinematics during throwing motion in baseball players with shoulder disorders has not yet been clarified, although altered scapular position has been suggested to be associated with shoulder disorder. Objective: To determine if the shoulders of baseball players with throwing disorders demonstrate abnormal scapular kinematics during the simulated arm-cocking phase of throwing activity. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Laboratory. Participants: Eleven baseball players (age 21.1 ± 1.2 y) with a unilateral shoulder disorder volunteered to participate, including 9 players at the college level and 2 at the adult level. The mean playing experience was 12.1 ± 2.7 y. Main Outcome Measures: Scapular upward/downward rotation, anteroposterior tilting, and external/internal rotation during simulated arm-cocking motion were analyzed using a 3-to-2-dimensional registration technique. Results: Scapular external rotation in the throwing shoulder was significantly smaller by 2.0--6.0° than that of the contralateral shoulder. There were no detectable differences in scapular upward/downward rotation or anteroposterior tilting between the throwing and contralateral shoulders. Conclusions: Compared with that in the contralateral shoulder, scapular external rotation was smaller in the throwing shoulder, which would increase glenohumeral horizontal abduction during the arm-cocking phase and be related to the throwing-shoulder disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A recent study revealed that whole-body vibration (WBV) tends to decrease spasticity in stroke-related hemiplegic legs. However, acute changes in cortical activation after WBV are unclear. Objective: To examine whether WBV induces acute changes in sensorimotor cortical activation in patients with stroke-related hemiplegic legs. Methods: Eleven stroke patients (mean age 52.6 [SD 15.4] years; median time after stroke 3 [25th and 75th percentiles; 3 and 10.5, respectively] months) participated in a comparative before-and-after intervention trial. Six healthy adults were also studied. WBV at 30 Hz was applied for 5 min to the hamstrings, gastrocnemius, and soleus muscles. Spasticity was assessed according to the modified Ashworth scale (MAS). Active and passive range of motion (A-ROM and P-ROM, respectively) were also measured. Change in Oxy-Hb concentration in bilateral sensorimotor cortex associated with voluntary ankle dorsiflexion of the affected limb was assessed via functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) before and immediately after WBV. Results: MAS score, A-ROM, and P-ROM improved immediately after WBV. In the patients, while there was no significant interaction between effects of region (ipsilesional and contralesional sensorimotor cortex) and the WBV intervention (before and immediately after WBV) (F1,10 = 0.702, p =.422), there was a significant main effect of the WBV intervention (F1,10 = 6.971, p =.025). In the healthy participants, there was no association with the WBV intervention or region. Conclusions: In patients with stroke-related spastic-hemiplegic legs, WBV might result not only in clinical improvement but also in acute increase in sensorimotor cortical activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) extract, eritadenine, has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels, and its hypocholesterolemic actions are involved in the metabolism of methionine. However, the mechanisms by which eritadenine affects cholesterol metabolism in animals fed a high-fat diet containing different sources of lipids have not yet been elucidated in detail. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of shiitake supplementation on serum lipid concentrations in rats fed a diet including a high amount of a plant oil (HO [high oil] and HOS [high oil with shiitake] groups), animal fat (HF [high fat] and HFS [high fat with shiitake] groups), or MCT- (medium-chain triglyceride-) rich plant oil (HM [high MCT] and HMS [high MCT with shiitake] groups). Rats in the HOS, HFS, and HMS groups were fed shiitake. When rats were fed a diet containing shiitake, serum triglyceride, cholesterol levels, and LCAT (lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase) activities were lower in rats given MCT-rich plant oil than in those that consumed lard. The lipid type in the diet with shiitake also affected serum cholesterol levels and LCAT activities. The diet containing MCT-rich plant oil showed the greatest rates of decrease in all serum lipid profiles and LCAT activities. These results suggest that shiitake and MCT-rich plant oil work together to reduce lipid profiles and LCAT activity in serum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: We have been developing a closed-circuit cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) system ("Dihead CPB") for application during coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and valve surgery. To strive for minimal hemolysis during Dihead CPB, we compared the hemolysis caused by three different suction systems and performed a clinical study with the newly applied suction system. Materials & Methods: We evaluated the hemolysis caused by roller-pump suction, the SmartSuction® Harmony® and wall suction systems with respect to suction speed and compared the systems by means of in vitro studies. A clinical study was also performed on 15 volunteers to assess hemolysis and the adequacy of the newly applied suction system with Dihead CPB. Results: Pressure inside the suction cannula was −22.5 ± 0.1 mmHg at a maximum flow of 1.5 L/min for roller-pump suction and −43.4 ± 0.1 mmHg at −150 mmHg of the set vacuum pressure of wall suction. With the SmartSuction, the pressure inside the cannula varied from −76.3 ± 1.0 to −130.3 ± 1.5 mmHg, depending on suctioning conditions. Suction speed (to suction 50 ml of blood) was fastest with the SmartSuction (69.7 ± 3.58 s) whereas, with roller suction, it was 117.3 ± 8.47 s and with wall suction 96.9 ± 7.10 s. The SmartSuction had the highest hemolysis rate (2.00 ± 0.33%) vs. 0.61 ± 0.10% for roller suction and 0.41 ± 0.11% for wall suction (p<0.001). The clinical study with wall suction showed no significant increase in plasma free hemoglobin during or after CPB compared with before surgery. Conclusions: Wall suction had less hemolysis than roller suction or the SmartSuction in the in vitro study and the clinical study with wall suction showed efficient suction speed and acceptable hemolysis, suggesting that Dihead CPB with wall suction is feasible for CABG. [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]

Objective: A majority of menstruating women experience some degree of regular recurrences of diverse symptoms-commonly known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS)-during the days before menstruation. Given the multifactorial etiology of PMS, no single treatment is universally recognized as effective, and many women turn to alternative modalities, including aromatherapy. The present study investigated therapeutic effects on premenstrual symptoms using fragrance from yuzu, a Japanese citrus fruit ( Citrus junos Sieb. ex Tanaka), and aromatherapy, from the perspective of autonomic nervous system function. Subjects: Seventeen women in their 20s with subjective premenstrual symptoms. Design: A single-blind randomized crossover study. Settings/Location: This study was performed at a laboratory in a university in Osaka, Japan. Subjects were examined on two separate occasions in the luteal phase. Outcome measures: Using two aromatic stimulation sources (yuzu and lavender used as the control), this experiment measured heart rate variability (HRV) reflecting autonomic nerve activity and the Profile of Mood States (POMS) as a psychologic index before and after aromatic stimulation. Results: A scant 10-min inhalation of the yuzu scent significantly decreased heart rate and increased high-frequency power of HRV, reflecting parasympathetic nerve activity, in the luteal phase. Additionally, POMS tests demonstrated that inhalation of the yuzu essential oil significantly decreased three negative subscales: tension-anxiety, anger-hostility, and fatigue-common premenstrual symptoms, together with a total mood disturbance as a global measure of affective state, as long as 35 min after the aroma stimulation. These premenstrual psychoneurophysiologic effects of yuzu fragrance did not differ from those of the effects of lavender. Conclusions: The present study indicated that short-term inhalation of yuzu fragrance could alleviate premenstrual emotional symptoms, which, at least in part, is attributable to the improvement of parasympathetic nervous system activity. This study further implies that yuzu fragrance aromatherapy might serve as an anti-PMS modality, given its comparable psychoneurophysiologic effects to those of lavender, a representative relaxing scent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vascular CD34+ cells in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tissue have the potential for high proliferation and multilineage differentiation that can accelerate tendon-bone healing. While patient characteristics, such as age, can affect tendon-bone healing, the influence of elapsed time after injury on the healing process is unclear. Hypothesis: Cells obtained during the early phase after injury will exhibit a greater tendon-bone healing potential compared with chronic phase counterparts when applied to an immunodeficient rat model of ACL reconstruction. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Adult human ACL-ruptured tissue was harvested from patients undergoing arthroscopic primary ACL reconstruction and classified into 2 groups based on the time elapsed between injury and surgery: (1) early group (≤3 months from injury) and (2) chronic group (>3 months from injury). In addition, 76 ten-week-old female immunodeficient rats underwent ACL reconstruction, followed by intracapsular administration of one of the following: (1) ACL-derived cells from the early group (n = 5), (2) ACL-derived cells from the chronic group (n = 5), or (3) phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) only (n = 5). During the 8 weeks after surgery, histological (weeks 2, 4, 8), immunohistochemical (week 2), radiographic (weeks 0, 2, 4, 8), and biomechanical (week 8) analyses were performed to evaluate tendon-bone healing. Results: In the early group, the histological evaluation showed early healing, induction of endochondral ossification–like integration, and mature bone ingrowth. Micro–computed tomography showed that the tibial bone tunnels at week 4 and week 8 were significantly reduced in the early group compared with those in the chronic group and PBS group (P < .05). Moreover, biomechanical tensile strength was significantly greater in the early group than in the other groups (P < .05). An accelerated healing potential in the early group was further demonstrated by the enhancement of intrinsic angiogenesis/osteogenesis and human-derived vasculogenesis/osteogenesis. Conclusion: Compared with human ACL-derived cells obtained during the chronic phase, cells obtained during the early phase after injury have a greater tendon-bone healing potential when used in an immunodeficient rat model of ACL reconstruction. Clinical Relevance: During ACL reconstruction surgery, transplanting ACL remnant tissue in the early phase after injury could accelerate and enhance tendon-bone healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to investigate and compare muscle and tendon stiffness under active conditions in sprinters and untrained participants. In total, 14 sprinters and 24 untrained men participated in this study. Active muscle stiffness in the medial gastrocnemius muscle was calculated based on changes in estimated muscle force and fascicle length during fast stretching after submaximal isometric contractions. Tendon stiffness was determined during isometric plantar flexion using ultrasonography. No significant differences were observed in active muscle stiffness between sprinters and untrained men at any torque levels. Furthermore, no significant difference was noted in tendon stiffness between the two groups. These results suggest that muscle and tendon mechanical properties in the plantar flexors under active conditions are similar in sprinters and untrained participants. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Remnant-preserved anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction was introduced to improve clinical outcomes and biological healing. However, the effects of remnant preservation and the influence of the delay from injury until reconstruction on the outcomes of this technique are still uncertain. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purposes of this study were to evaluate whether remnant preservation improved the clinical outcomes and graft incorporation of ACL reconstruction and to examine the influence of the delay between ACL injury and reconstruction on the usefulness of remnant preservation. We hypothesized that remnant preservation improves clinical results and accelerates graft incorporation and that its effect is dependent on the delay between ACL injury and reconstruction. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: A total of 151 consecutive patients who underwent double-bundle ACL reconstruction using a semitendinosus graft were enrolled in this study: 74 knees underwent ACL reconstruction without a remnant (or the remnant was <25% of the intra-articular portion of the graft; NR group), while 77 knees underwent ACL reconstruction with remnant preservation (RP group). These were divided into 4 subgroups based on the time from injury to surgery: phase 1 was <3 weeks (n = 24), phase 2 was 3 to less than 8 weeks (n = 70), phase 3 was 8 to 20 weeks (n = 32), and phase 4 was >20 weeks (n = 25). Clinical measurements, including KT-1000 arthrometer side-to-side anterior tibial translation measurements, were assessed at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after reconstruction. Magnetic resonance imaging evaluations of graft maturation and graft-tunnel integration of the anteromedial and posterolateral bundles were assessed at 3, 6, and 12 months after reconstruction. Results: There was no difference in side-to-side anterior tibial translation between the NR and RP groups. There was also no difference in graft maturation between the 2 groups. Furthermore, the time from ACL injury until reconstruction did not affect graft maturation, except in the case of very long delays before reconstruction (phase 4). Graft-tunnel integration was significantly increased in both groups in a time-dependent manner. However, there was no difference between the NR and RP groups. Conclusion: Remnant preservation did not improve knee stability at 2 years after ACL reconstruction. Furthermore, remnant preservation did not accelerate graft incorporation, especially during the acute and subacute injury phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on a study which examines the lateral posing bias for displaying trustworthiness during a trust game in which participants and their virtual partners cooperated or did not cooperate with their counterparts to earn a monetary reward. Topics discussed include the number of posers showing the left or right cheek as a function of cooperativeness and the mean rating of facial trustworthiness as a function of posing orientation and cooperativeness.

Background Thrombocytopenia during intoxication, rebound thrombocytosis during 1 to 3 weeks of abstinence, and subsequent normalization of the platelet count are common in alcoholics. Methods We evaluated 989 Japanese alcoholic men to identify the effects of genetic polymorphisms of alcohol dehydrogenase-1B ( ADH1B; rs1229984) and aldehyde dehydrogenase-2 ( ALDH2; rs671) on platelet counts during an 8-week in-hospital abstinence period. Results Thrombocytopenia (<15 × 104/ μl) was observed in 25.9% of the subjects upon admission. The platelet counts increased from 21.4 ± 0.3 × 104/ μl (mean ± SE) to 27.6 ± 0.3 × 104/ μl, and a rebound platelet increase of ≥10 × 104/ μl was observed in 28.6% of the patients during the first 2 weeks after admission. By 4 weeks, the mean platelet counts had returned to intermediate levels and remained stable thereafter. The reversible suppression and rebound increase in the platelet counts were more prominent in the slow-metabolizing ADH1B*1/*1 group than in the fast-metabolizing ADH1B*2 group. Throughout the 8 weeks, the mean platelet counts of the active ALDH2*1/*1 group were consistently lower than those in the inactive ALDH2*1/*2 group. Cirrhosis was a strong determinant of a lower platelet count. After adjustments for nongenetic factors including cirrhosis, multiple linear regression analyses showed that the ADH1B*1/*1 genotype was associated with a lower platelet count (partial regression coefficient = −1.3 × 104/ μl) on the admission day , but subsequently had a positive effect on the platelet count at 1 and 2 weeks after admission (+1.5 and +3.8 × 104/ μl, respectively). The ALDH2*1/*1 genotype was associated with a lower platelet count (−2.1 to −3.9 × 104/ μl) consistently throughout the 8 weeks. Multiple logistic regression analyses showed that the ADH1B*1/*1 genotype increased the risk of thrombocytopenia upon admission (odds ratio [95% confidence interval] = 1.61 [1.14 to 2.27]) and of a rebound platelet increase during the first 2 weeks (3.86 [2.79 to 5.34]). The ALDH2*1/*1 genotype increased the risk of thrombocytopenia upon admission (1.73 [1.06 to 2.82]). Conclusions In alcoholics, the ADH1B*1/*1 genotype increased the risk of thrombocytopenia upon admission and of a rebound platelet increase 2 weeks thereafter, while the ALDH2*1/*1 genotype was associated with lower platelet counts throughout the 8-week hospital stay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of International Journal of Clinical & Experimental Hypnosis is the property of Routledge and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

While more women with breast cancer survive because of advances in cancer treatment including hormonal therapy, they are at a risk of menopausal symptoms, which can threaten their psychological wellbeing. We examined the effect of menopausal symptoms on women's psychological wellbeing during three different phases of breast cancer: short-term (0-1 years since diagnosis), medium-term (2-5 years), and long-term (more than 5 years). In this cross-sectional study, 425 survivors treated with hormonal therapy were recruited from a convenience sample in Japan and completed an anonymous self-administered questionnaire. Multiple regression analysis revealed that menopausal symptoms significantly contributed to psychological wellbeing in all phases. In long-term survivors, menopausal symptoms were significantly milder; however, the negative effect was prolonged. One in three to four survivors was suspected to have poor psychological wellbeing, irrespective of time. Although the effect of menopausal symptoms on psychological wellbeing has been described in short-term survivors, little is known about the long-term effect. This study examines the effect of menopausal symptoms on psychological wellbeing, thereby providing useful information regarding long-term quality of life. [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: To evaluate the immediate effects of traditional local thermal therapy with indirect moxibustion on renal hemodynamics in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) by using Doppler ultrasonography (US). Design: Examiner-blinded crossover study. Participants: Forty-three participants with CKD (mean age ± standard deviation [SD], 44 ± 15 years; estimated glomerular filtration rate, 69.5 ± 25.5 mL/min per 1.73 m2; 20 men and 23 women). Intervention: Participants received three successive treatment sessions of indirect moxibustion bilaterally at BL 23, a crucial acupuncture point, in the session. In the control session, the examiner was blinded by using smoke and aroma produced by moxibustion performed in an ashtray placed near the patient's body. Outcome measures: The main outcome measure was resistive index (RI) in the renal segmental arteries. Blood flow parameters, including RI, were measured for six renal segmental arteries by using Doppler US at rest (baseline), immediately after completion of moxibustion (post 1), and 10 minutes later (post 2). Adverse events were monitored during intervention. Results: In the control session, RI at post 1 (median [first, third quartile]: 0.587 [0.562, 0.626]) and post 2 (0.583 [0.567, 0.629]) did not change significantly compared with baseline (0.592 [0.563, 0.636]), while in the treatment session, RI at post 1 (0.565 [0.530, 0.618]) and post 2 (0.561 [0.533, 0.614]) decreased significantly compared with baseline (0.590 [0.550, 0.652]) ( p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). The reduction in RI from baseline to post 2 in treatment session was significantly greater than in control session (mean ± SD, −0.026 ± 0.028 versus −0.003 ± 0.028; mean difference, −0.023 [95% confidence interval, −0.036 to −0.010]; p = 0.001]. No adverse events, such as burns, were observed during the study period. Conclusion: Renal vascular resistance was decreased after indirect moxibustion therapy in patients with CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale for Nursing Education (SDLRSNE) assesses the extent to which an individual has the characteristics, capabilities, and attitudes required for self-directed learning. This study aimed to validate the Japanese version of the SDLRSNE with graduate-level nursing students. Method: Confirmatory factor analyses, using data from a cross-sectional online survey of 376 nursing students, were conducted to examine construct validity. Relationships with potential related factors were analyzed to evaluate construct validity. Reliability was evaluated with item analysis and Cronbach's alpha. Results: Factor analyses revealed that three-factor and individual subscale models had a moderate-to-poor fit. No meaningful relationship with potential related factors was noted. Reliability measurements indicated a moderate fit to data. Conclusion: This study could not confirm that the Japanese version of the SDLRSNE had acceptable levels of reliability and validity when tested with graduatelevel nursing students. Further research is needed to examine the psychometric properties of the Japanese version of the SDLRSNE with other adult nursing learners or with graduate-level nursing students in other countries. [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]

Background Alcohol-dependent patients are known to be generally more unfairness sensitive. The ultimatum game ( UG) is an experimental task designed to provoke feelings of perceived unfairness. A previous study using the UG has reported more unfairness sensitivity in patients with alcohol dependence than in a nondependent control group; it has been speculated that this increased sensitivity might be due to a difficulty in impulse control. However, the mechanism of this relationship has not been clarified. Therefore, the relationship between unfairness sensitivity in interpersonal relationships and impulsivity was investigated using UG and delay discounting ( DD) paradigms. Methods Subjects were 32 individuals with alcohol dependency and 36 healthy control individuals; both groups performed UG and DD tasks. Results Participants with alcohol dependence rejected monetary offers deemed unfair at a significantly higher rate than did control participants. Moreover, the proportion of accepting unfairness was negatively correlated with impulsivity in patients with alcohol dependence. Conclusions Perceived unfairness is related to impulsivity in patients with alcohol dependence. These results provide insights concerning the psychopathology of alcohol dependence. [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]

Background and Objective Various studies have reported the relationship between alcohol consumption and gingival condition. However, they focus on the direct effects of alcohol consumption or alcohol sensitivity on gingival condition, and it is unclear how oral health behaviors relate these relationships. The aims of this study were to assess the inter-relationships between gingival condition, tooth-brushing behavior after drinking alcohol and alcohol sensitivity in university students who drink more than once per week on average. Material and Methods A total of 808 students (541 males, 267 females) that habitually consume alcohol were analyzed. The disease activity of gingival condition was assessed as the percentage of bleeding on probing (% BOP). Additional information regarding alcohol sensitivity and oral health behaviors, including tooth-brushing behavior after drinking, were also collected. Results Thirteen percent of the current participants reported neglecting tooth-brushing after drinking, and their alcohol consumption was higher than those who did not neglect tooth-brushing. Logistic regression analysis showed that high % BOP (% BOP ≥ 20) was associated with male ( OR = 1.53; 95% CI, 1.01-2.33), neglect of tooth-brushing after drinking ( OR = 2.60; 95% CI, 1.20-5.61) and debris index ( OR = 8.38; 95% CI, 4.24-16.60) in participants with low alcohol sensitivity. In participants with high alcohol sensitivity, high % BOP was associated with debris index ( OR = 7.60; 95% CI, 3.12-18.51), but not with any oral health behaviors. Conclusions The study revealed that alcohol consumption was indirectly related to gingival disease activity through the neglect of tooth-brushing after drinking alcohol in university students with low alcohol sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LA Wall Thickness, LA Electrogram, and Dormant PV Conduction Introduction Atrial remodeling plays a key role in development of the substrate for atrial fibrillation (AF). Whether the wall thicknesses of the left atrium (LA) and pulmonary vein (PV)-LA junction affect remodeling and AF ablation is unknown. We investigated the relationship between wall thicknesses, electrogram characteristics, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-provoked dormant PV conduction as they pertain to AF. Methods In 50 patients with AF and 25 patients without AF, wall thicknesses of the LA and PV-LA junction were measured on 320-slice computed tomography images. For the AF patients, NavX-based voltage maps generated during sinus rhythm were obtained, and ATP-provoked dormant PV conduction after PV isolation was evaluated. Results Walls of the LA and PV-LA junction were significantly thicker in the AF patients than in the control patients (1.83 ± 0.29 mm vs. 1.59 ± 0.28 mm, respectively; P = 0.0010; and 0.88 ± 0.14 mm vs. 0.65 ± 0.11 mm, P<0.0001, respectively). Wall thickness at the PV-LA junction was independently associated with AF (β = 0.40, P = 0.0002). In AF patients, the walls of the PV-LA junction showed stepwise thickening across bipolar voltages indicative of severe (bipolar voltage <33rd percentile) to moderate (33rd-66th percentiles) to mild fibrosis/scarring (≥66th percentile). Walls of the PV-LA junction with dormant PV conduction were significantly thicker than those without it (0.94 ± 0.19 mm vs. 0.86 ± 0.21 mm, respectively; P = 0.0025). Conclusions Together, the association between thickened PV-LA junction walls and AF and the increased bipolar voltage suggests that such wall thickening increases PV electrical activities, leading to initiation and maintenance of AF and perhaps to ATP-provoked dormant PV conduction. [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]

Outdoor exercise often proceeds in rainy conditions. However, the cooling effects of rain on human physiological responses have not been systematically studied in hot conditions. The present study determined physiological and metabolic responses using a climatic chamber that can precisely simulate hot, rainy conditions. Eleven healthy men ran on a treadmill at an intensity of 70% VO2maxfor 30 min in the climatic chamber at an ambient temperature of 33°C in the presence (RAIN) or absence (CON) of 30 mm · h−1of precipitation and a headwind equal to the running velocity of 3.15 ± 0.19 m · s−1. Oesophageal temperature, mean skin temperature, heart rate, rating of perceived exertion, blood parameters, volume of expired air and sweat loss were measured. Oesophageal and mean skin temperatures were significantly lower from 5 to 30 min, and heart rate was significantly lower from 20 to 30 min in RAIN than in CON (P < 0.05 for all). Plasma lactate and epinephrine concentrations (30 min) and sweat loss were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in RAIN compared with CON. Rain appears to influence physiological and metabolic responses to exercise in heat such that heat-induced strain might be reduced. [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]

We sought to determine whether serial measurements of oxidative stress levels could serve as a predictive marker for cardiovascular (CV) events in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Biological antioxidant potential (BAP) levels were measured at admission and at 6, 12, and 24 months in 69 patients with STEMI. The CV events abruptly increased 6 to 10 months after successful percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with STEMI, and the 6-month BAP levels were significantly lower in patients with CV events (2456 μmol/L [interquartile range: 2237-2615 μmol/L]) than in those without (2849 μmol/L [2575-2987 μmol/L], P < .001). A decreased 6-month BAP level was an independent and significant predictor of long-term CV events (hazard ratio = 2.45; 95% confidence intervals 1.10-5.78; P = .04). Our findings suggest that serial changes in antioxidant capacity, assessed by BAP levels, may serve as a predictive marker for CV events after STEMI. [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]

Aims and objectives. To assess psychosocial profiles of children with achondroplasia using a nationwide survey. Background. Achondroplasia, showing short stature and disproportionately short limbs, causes physical inconvenience such as difficulty in reaching high objects. It is, however, still controversial whether the condition is associated with psychological problems, especially in childhood. Design. A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed. Methods. To evaluate psychosocial profiles and adaptation processes in children with achondroplasia, we developed an inventory of scales based on the psychological stress model of which conceptual framework was comprised of stressor, coping process, coping resource and adaptation outcome domains. Participants were recruited nationwide through the largest advocacy support group for achondroplasia in Japan. Of the 130 group members, 73 X-ray-diagnosed patients, aged 8-18 years, completed the inventory of questionnaires to be analysed. Results. As for the stressor domain, patients experienced short stature-related unpleasant experiences more frequently (z-score: +1.3 in average, +3.9 in physical inconvenience). Nevertheless, these experiences had little effect on the coping process (threat appraisal: -0.2, control appraisal: +0.1) and the adaptation outcome (stress response: +0.3, self-concept: 0.0). Interestingly, self-efficacy in the coping resource domain was noticeably increased (+3.1) and was strongly correlated with most variables in the coping process and in adaptation outcome domains. Conclusions. Although the children with achondroplasia experienced more short stature-related stressors, there was no evidence of any psychosocial maladaptation. This finding suggests that coping process as well as coping resources such as self-efficacy could be important targets for promoting psychological adjustment in children with achondroplasia. Relevance to clinical practice. To help children with achondroplasia adapt socially, nurses and other healthcare providers should routinely assess their psychological adaptation process, especially cognitive appraisal and self-efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary objective: To examine active inhibition of irrelevant stimuli and evaluate its neural basis using functional near infrared spectroscopy in patients with attention deficits after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Research design: Case control study. Methods and procedures: Ten patients with TBI and 10 healthy control subjects participated in this study. The Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT) was performed with (distracting PASAT) and without (PASAT) distracting Japanese kana phonetic characters presented between each number. A block design was used. Subjects alternately performed each task three times. Main outcomes and results: Healthy controls performed better than patients with TBI on both the tasks. When performing the PASAT, healthy controls showed significant activity in every region of interest except the right lateral prefrontal cortex (PFC), but patients with TBI showed significant activity only in the left anterior PFC and left lateral PFC. When performing the distracting PASAT, the right lateral PFC was active in healthy controls, but not in patients with TBI. Conclusion: These results confirm that patients with moderate-to-severe TBI were affected by distractors that influenced order processing. It is suggested that the working memory of patients with TBI was affected by distracting stimuli, whereas that of healthy individuals was not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Nurses with higher levels of work engagement tend to be highly efficient in their work and more willing to keep working and to provide patient-centred care. However, whether more engaged nurses provide end-of-life care more proactively has not been examined in the home-care setting. AIM: This study aimed to examine work engagement among home-visiting nurses in Japan and its relationship with their attitudes toward caring for dying patients and their families. METHODS: A total of 343 nurses working in 62 agencies across Chiba prefecture, eastern Japan, received an anonymous self-administered questionnaire from July to August 2012. The authors performed multiple regression analysis to explore the relationships between home-visiting nurses' work engagement and attitudes. RESULTS: Data from 184 nurses (53.6%) was analysed. Work engagement was significantly positively related to the nurses' attitudes toward caring for dying patients and their families. CONCLUSION: As more engaged nurses tend to have more positive attitudes toward caring for dying patients and their families, further research is needed to identify the factors that might help nursing managers to enhance their staff's engagement and perhaps thereby improve their attitudes, with the ultimate aim of achieving better outcomes for patients and families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on ACTN3 R577X polymorphism as it relates to muscular power in Japanese collegiate athletes as analyzed with a 30-second Wingate anaerobic test (WAnT) for mean and peak power results. The ACTN3 R577X genotype, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium distribution, and anaerobic power are also discussed.

BACKGROUND: The 3-dimensional (3D) distances of specific points on the chest and abdominal wall are useful for assessing the characteristics of breathing movement. This study aimed to determine whether the 3D distances on the chest and abdominal wall during deep breathing (DB) could be estimated using a newly developed breathing movement-measuring device (BMMD). METHODS: Breathing movement distances on the chest (bilateral third and eighth ribs) and abdomen (upper abdomen) of 10 healthy young males were measured using a pen-sized mechanical BMMD and a 3D motion analysis system during DB. DB was controlled and based on the distances targeted by the BMMD (ie, 1, 2, and 3 cm), which was placed on the observation points and fixed on a tripod. Simultaneously, the 3D distances of reflective markers on the observation points were measured. The obtained data were statistically analyzed using a paired t test, repeated measures analysis of variance with multiple comparisons tests, and linear regression with mixed effects. RESULTS: All the BMMD distances were less than the 3D distances. The differences between the 3D and BMMD distances on the chest and abdomen, except for the left lower chest (eighth rib), were significantly greater at a target distance of 3 cm than that of 1 cm. The coefficients of determination ranged from 0.98 to 0.99. CONCLUSIONS: Linear regression equations provided adequate estimates of the 3D distances of markers on the chest and abdominal wall during DB. The results suggest that this BMMD is useful for quantitatively assessing DB movement of the chest and abdominal wall in healthy young males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Frequency of alcohol drinking is known to influence cardiovascular risk. However, little is known regarding the relationship between frequency of drinking and metabolic syndrome (MetS). The aim of this study was to determine how frequency of heavy drinking modifies the prevalence of MetS. Methods The subjects were middle-aged male nondrinkers and occasional or regular heavy drinkers (ethanol intake: ≥66 g per drinking day). Odds ratios ( ORs) for MetS and each component comprising MetS were calculated with adjustment for age and histories of smoking and regular exercise. Results ORs versus nondrinkers for MetS defined by the criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP-ATP III) or the International Diabetes Federation ( IDF) were significantly higher than the reference level of 1.00 in occasional heavy drinkers ( NCEP- ATP III, 1.94 [confidence interval (CI): 1.54 to 2.45]; IDF, 1.97 [ CI: 1.56 to 2.49]) and regular heavy drinkers ( NCEP- ATP III, 1.48 [ CI: 1.19 to 1.84]; IDF, 1.50 [ CI: 1.20 to 1.86]). When compared with the reference level, OR versus nondrinkers for large waist circumference was significantly higher in occasional heavy drinkers (1.96 [ CI: 1.63 to 2.35]), but not in regular heavy drinkers (1.12 [ CI: 0.96 to 1.32]), while OR versus nondrinkers for hyperglycemia was significantly lower in regular heavy drinkers (0.66 [ CI: 0.46 to 0.95]), but not in occasional heavy drinkers (0.86 [ CI: 0.60 to 1.24]). Conclusions There is a positive association between heavy drinking and MetS, which is stronger in occasional drinkers than in regular drinkers. This difference may be explained by a positive association between occasional heavy drinking and central obesity and an inverse association between regular heavy drinking and hyperglycemia. The results suggest that heavy drinking, even if occasionally, is a cardiovascular risk factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]