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The objective of this study was to investigate spontaneous neural regeneration and functional recovery after resection of various lengths of the hypoglossal (XII) nerve in adult rats.

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) visualizes hemodynamic responses associated with brain and spinal cord activation. Various types of pain have been objectively assessed using fMRI as considerable brain activations. This study aimed to develop a pain model in cynomolgus macaques undergoing knee surgery and confirm brain activation due to resting pain after knee surgery.

Rhodium-103m is one of the most attractive Auger electron emitters for internal radiotherapy. The half-life of 103mRh is relatively short (56.114 min). Therefore, it needs to be produced using a generator for clinical use. Most studies of 103Pd/103mRh generators using anion-exchange resins were carried out over 50 years ago. However, these resins are no longer commercially available. In the present study, we tested a 103Pd/103mRh generator using alternative anion-exchange resins (i.e., IRA904, IRA410, SA20A, and SA11AL). No-carrier-added 103Pd was used to make the generators. The 103mRh product was eluted from the generators using 6 mL of 0.1 M HCl with a flow rate 0.5 mL/min. The generator made from SA11AL showed good performance, with a yield of 39 %, an impurity level of 103Pd in the product of 0.29 %, and an operation time of 14 min. This makes this generator competitive with previously developed ones.

The Cauchy problem is studied for the self-adjoint and non-self-adjoint Schrödinger equations. We first prove the existence and uniqueness of solutions in the weighted Sobolev spaces. Secondly we prove that if potentials are depending continuously and differentiably on a parameter, so are the solutions, respectively. The non-self-adjoint Schrödinger equations that we study are those used in the theory of continuous quantum measurements. The results on the existence and uniqueness of solutions in the weighted Sobolev spaces will play a crucial role in the proof for the convergence of the Feynman path integrals in the theories of quantum mechanics and continuous quantum measurements.

Family-focused therapy (FFT) is associated with enhanced outcomes in youth with bipolar and depressive disorders, but has not been evaluated in conjunction with mobile health tools. In symptomatic adolescents whose parents had histories of mood disorders, we examined whether the effects of telehealth-based FFT were augmented by mobile health apps that emphasized mood tracking and family coping skills.

The new laser ablation technique has been developed for analysis of metallic impurities in SiC and GaN wafers. Particles generated by a femto-second laser ablation were aspirated by an ejector and introduced to an Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) via a Gas Exchange Device (GED) and analyzed. A Metal Standard Aerosol Generation (MSAG) was used for quantitation of metallic impurities in SiC and GaN wafers.

Metal contamination is a critical issue in semiconductor manufacturing processes, where controlling the concentration of metals in the deionized water (DIW) used for wafer rinsing and chemical dilution is necessary. In our previous study, we reported an ultra-trace level measurement method using solid-phase extraction (SPE) with a monolithic resin and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). However, this method had limitations regarding rapid metal concentration confirmation and contamination risks due to manual processing and sample delivery. This study proposes an on-line metal measurement system that uses an automated SPE technique coupled with ICP-MS to address the shortcomings of the conventional method. The system provides continuous on-site monitoring of ultra-trace metal concentrations in DIW, reducing preconcentration volume by up to 60% compared to the conventional method owing to minimizing contamination by automating all processes. Moreover, the system achieved reliable results similar to the conventional method, high analytical stability, with the relative standard deviations (RSDs) within 5% for a concentration of around 0.05 ng/L (n=4) using a test solution. We also evaluated the metal removal filter as an application of the system mentioned above, simultaneously analyzing multiple elements at the single-pg/L level and confirming the performance of the filter.

The ‘Grey-Box-Processing’ method, presented in this article, allows for the integration of simulated and experimental data sets with the overall objective of a comprehensive validation of simulation methods and models. This integration leads to so-called hybrid data sets. They allow for a spatially and temporally resolved identification and quantitative assessment of deviations between experimental observations and results of corresponding finite element simulations in the field of vehicle safety. This is achieved by the iterative generation of a synthetic, dynamic solution corridor in the finite element domain, which is deduced from experimental observations and restricts the freedom of movement of a virtually analyzed structure. The hybrid data sets thus contain physically based information about the interaction (e.g. acting forces) between the solution corridor and the virtually analyzed structure. An additional result of the ‘Grey-Box-Processing’ is the complemented three-dimensional reconstruction of the incomplete experimental observations (e.g. two-dimensional X-ray movies). The extensive data sets can be used not only for the assessment of the similarity between experiment and simulation, but also for the efficient derivation of improvement measures in order to increase the predictive power of the used model or method if necessary. In this study, the approach is presented in detail. Simulation-based investigations are conducted using generic test setups as well as realistic pedestrian safety test cases. These investigations show the general applicability of the method as well as the significant informative value and interpretability of generated hybrid data sets.

Quinonoiddihydropteridine reductase (QDPR) regenerates tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), which is an essential cofactor for catecholamine and serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) biosynthesis. Serotonin is known as an important platelet agonist, but its role under BH4-synthesizing or recycling enzymes deficiency is unknown. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of Qdprgene disruption on platelet aggregation using knockout (Qdpr−/−) mice. Platelet aggregation was monitored by light transmission aggregometry using adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and collagen as agonists. We also assessed how platelet aggregation was modified by 5-HT recovery through supplementation with 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), a 5-HT precursor, or by blocking the serotonin 5-HT2Areceptor. Platelet aggregation in the Qdpr−/−mice was significantly suppressed in comparison with that in wild-type (Qdpr+/+) mice, particularly at the maintenance phase of aggregation. 5-HT storage was decreased in Qdpr−/−platelets, and 5-HTP supplementation recovered not only the intraplatelet 5-HT levels but also platelet aggregation. In addition, 5-HT signal blockade using sarpogrelate suppressed platelet aggregation in Qdpr+/+mice, and platelets in Qdpr−/−mice were hardly affected. Our results indicate that QDPR deficiency suppresses platelet aggregation by impairing 5-HT biosynthesis in mice.

We introduce the dye‐sensitized solar cell (DSSC) integrated by the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) technology, which called LC‐LH (Liquid and Crystal ‐ Light Harvesting). We show that LC‐LH is a device that achieves both low cost and high conversion efficiency, and could enable further expansion of the market.

Antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) is a major tool used for silencing pathogenic genes. For stroke in the hyperacute stage, however, the ability of ASO to regulate genes is limited by its poor delivery to the ischemic brain owing to sudden occlusion of the supplying artery. Here we show that, in a mouse model of permanent ischemic stroke, lipid-ligand conjugated DNA/RNA heteroduplex oligonucleotide (lipid-HDO) was unexpectedly delivered 9.6 times more efficiently to the ischemic area of the brain than to the contralateral non-ischemic brain and achieved robust gene knockdown and change of stroke phenotype, despite a 90% decrease in cerebral blood flow in the 3 h after occlusion. This delivery to neurons was mediated via receptor-mediated transcytosis by lipoprotein receptors in brain endothelial cells, the expression of which was significantly upregulated after ischemia. This study provides proof-of-concept that lipid-HDO is a promising gene-silencing technology for stroke treatment in the hyperacute stage.

Introduction: Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) frequently change attending physicians. The number of changes in attending physicians is related to the accumulated organ damage in patients with diabetes mellitus and inflammatory bowel disease, although similar results are not known for patients with SLE. This study investigated whether the number of attending physicians after the onset of SLE is associated with organ damage. Methods: Patients with SLE were enrolled in a multicenter registry of 14 institutions (the Lupus Registry of Nationwide Institutions). Patients with a disease duration of 6 months to 10 years were included. Exposure was defined as the number of attending physicians. The primary outcome was the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology damage index (SDI). The secondary outcomes were corticosteroid- and non-corticosteroid-related damage. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the association between the number of attending physicians and SDI, adjusting for potential confounders, including age, sex, disease duration, number of hospitalizations due to SLE, disease activity at diagnosis, and emotional health. Results: Of the 702 patients, 86.5% were women (median age 46 years, interquartile range 35–58). The disease duration was 7.3 years (4.3–11.3), the number of hospitalizations due to SLE was 1 (1–3), the number of attending physicians was 3 (2–4), and SDI was 0 points (0–1). The number of attending physicians was significantly associated with SDI [odds ratio (OR) 1.14, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03–1.26]. In the secondary outcome, the number of attending physicians was significantly associated with corticosteroid-related damage (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.09–1.38). The number of attending physicians was not significantly associated with non-corticosteroid-related damage (OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.99–1.19). Conclusions: This study showed that SDI could increase as the number of attending physicians increases. The impact of changing attending physicians warrants greater attention for SLE and other diseases.

Coagulation factor XIII (FXIII) consists of 2 A (FXIII-A) and 2 B (FXIII-B) subunits that cross-link and strengthen the hemostatic fibrin thrombus; thus, abnormal bleeding occurs when FXIII is significantly reduced. Autoimmune-acquired FXIII deficiency (AiF13D) is characterized by lethal bleeding secondary to the development of autoantibodies against FXIII. However, since anti-FXIII autoantibodies are polyclonal, the mechanism underlying FXIII dysfunction is unclear.

We report for the first time that PDMS rubber sorbs an extremely large amount of CO2(792 mg g-1) at near the condensation pressure at a certain low temperature (-3 °C), giving the sorption enthalpy of 9.3–10.8 kJ mol-1. The sorption isotherms were evaluated by means of the Flory–Huggins equation, and the resultant ? parameters (1.3–0.2) were used to estimate the solubility parameter (SP). The CO2/CH4and CO2/N2selectivities were 9.6–44 at 100–3000 kPa and were far larger than those of activated carbon.Sorption isotherms for CO2in PDMS rubber were measured at -30 to 25 °C. The amount absorbed at -3 °C reached 792 mg g-1near the condensation pressure (3130 kPa). The sorption isotherms obeyed the Flory–Huggins equation, and CO2/N2selectivity exceeded 44, which is 23 times higher than that of conventional activated carbon.

Here, a novel porous microneedle (PMN) device with bilaterally aligned electroosmotic flow (EOF) enabling controllable dual‐mode delivery of molecules is developed. The PMNs placed at anode and cathode compartments are modified with anionic poly‐2‐acrylamido‐2‐methyl‐1‐propanesulfonic acid and cationic poly‐(3‐acrylamidopropyl) trimethylammonium, respectively. The direction of EOF generated by PMN at the cathode compartment is, therefore, reversed from cathode to anode, countering the unwanted cathodal suctioning of interstitial fluid caused by reverse iontophoresis. With the bilateral alignment of EOF, the versatility of the proposed device is evaluated by delivering molecules with different charges and sizes using Franz cell. In addition, a 3D printed probe device is developed to ease practical handling and minimize electrical stimulation by integrating two PMNs in closed proximity. Finally, the performance of the integrated probe device is demonstrated by dual delivery of a variety of molecules (methylene blue, rhodamine B, and fluorescein isothiocyanate–dextran) using pig skin and vaccination using mice with delivered ovalbumin. Dual‐mode drug delivery using an integrated porous microneedle device generating aligned electroosmosis flow is developed. Two semicircular porous microneedles placed at anode and cathode compartments are modified with anionic poly‐2‐acrylamido‐2‐methyl‐1‐propanesulfonic acid and cationic poly‐(3‐acrylamidopropyl) trimethylammonium, respectively. Therefore, the alignment of electroosmotic flow toward the skin effectively mitigates the unwanted cathodal interstitial fluid suction by inducing a counterflow for reverse iontophoresis.

AbstractResearch shows promise for cognitive interventions for children diagnosed with brain tumors. Interventions have been delivered approximately 5 years postdiagnosis on average, yet recent evidence shows cognitive deficits may appear near diagnosis. The present study assessed the feasibility and initial effects of working memory training in children with brain tumors delivered soon after diagnosis and followed 2 years postdiagnosis. Children completed baseline assessments 10 months postdiagnosis and were randomized to complete adaptive or nonadaptive (i.e., control) Cogmed Working Memory Training. Children were administered the WISC-IV Working Memory Index (WMI) and NIH Toolbox Cognitive Battery (NTCB), and parents completed attentional and executive function measures at four time points. On average, participants completed half of prescribed Cogmed sessions. Retention for the three follow-up assessments proved difficult. For both Cogmed groups, WMI and NTCB scores significantly improved immediately postintervention compared to baseline scores. Significant differences were not maintained at the remaining follow-ups. There was preliminary evidence for improved executive function at the final follow-up on parent-reported measures. Working memory training closer to diagnosis proved difficult, though results suggest evidence of cognitive improvement. Future studies should continue to examine potentially efficacious interventions for children with brain tumors and optimal delivery windows to maximize impact.

The Tyr-Pro (YP) dipeptide can serve as an adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1) agonist. We thus investigated the AdipoR1-agonistic potential of YP-related tripeptides in the soybean protein sequence. Among the 17 soybean candidate tripeptides, those elongated at the C-terminus of YP (0.1 μM YPG, 140 ± 16%; 0.1 μM YPE, 141 ± 22%; 0.1 μM YPP, 145 ± 19%; 0.1 μM YPQ, 143 ± 20%; p< 0.05) significantly promoted glucose uptake by L6 muscle myotubes, comparable to the effect of 0.1 μM AdipoRon (163 ± 52%, p< 0.05). The knockdown of AdipoR1 expression in L6 cells abrogated this effect of YPG and YPP, indicating that the two tripeptides had an AdipoR1 agonistic effect. CHARMM-GUI-aided molecular dynamics simulation in a virtual phospholipid membrane revealed that YPG and YPP were stably positioned at the binding pockets of AdipoR1 (binding free energy < −10 kcal/mol). These findings demonstrate that the tripeptides YPG and YPP, with AdipoR1 agonistic YP sequences, have alternative adiponectin-like potential viatheir preferential binding to AdipoR1.

There are numerous cultivars of tea (Camellia sinensisL.), but the differences in their anti-hyperglycemic-related effects are largely unknown. The inhibition of the dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP)-IV enzyme plays an essential role in controlling hyperglycemia in diabetes by blocking the degradation of incretin hormones, which is necessary for insulin secretion. In this study, we examined the DPP-IV inhibitory activity of leaf extracts from diverse Japanese green tea cultivars. The inhibitory rates differed among tea extracts. Metabolic profiling (MP), using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, of all cultivars revealed compositional differences among cultivars according to their DPP-IV inhibitory capacity. Epigallocatechin-3-O-(3-O-methyl)gallate, kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, myricetin-3-O-glucoside/galactoside, and theogallin were newly identified as DPP-IV inhibitors. The bioactivity of a tea extract was potentiated by adding these ingredients in combination. Our results show that MP is a useful approach for evaluating the DPP-IV inhibitory potency of green tea and for determining bioactivity-related ingredients and combinations.

Previous studies have shown that preoperative factors predict the postoperative Barthel Index score in patients with trochanteric fractures, while there is less evidence on the effects of perioperative factors on the prediction. This study aimed to assess the effects of preoperative and perioperative factors on the early postoperative Barthel Index score in patients with trochanteric fractures. Consecutive 288 patients aged ≥60 years with trochanteric fractures who could independently walk before injury were included. Patients were grouped according to the Barthel Index score measured after 2 weeks of surgery; the cut-off value was 20 points. Two logistic regression models were created to assess the effects of preoperative (model 1: dementia, walking ability before injury, and nutrition status) and perioperative (model 2: independent variables in model 1, reduction quality, and basic mobility function) factors on the Barthel Index score. Sensitivity and specificity were used to assess the predicative accuracy of the models. Poor preoperative (model 1: χ2= 34.626, P< 0.01) and perioperative (model 2: χ2= 43.956, P< 0.01) characteristics were significantly related to lower Barthel Index score. Sensitivity and specificity were similar between the models (model 1: 83.3% and 38.9% and model 2: 82.2% and 42.6%, respectively). Both preoperative and perioperative factors were significantly related to the early postoperative Barthel Index score after trochanteric fracture. However, only minimal increase in predictive accuracy was observed when perioperative predictors were analyzed along with preoperative factors. Both baseline characteristics and basic postoperative mobility should be considered when treating patients with trochanteric fractures.

Graphical abstract:

A polymer solution can be flash-frozen to prepare homopolymers with mesoporous structures in a template-free manner. The flash-freezing method is derived from the ice-templating or freeze-casting method. Herein, we comprehensively investigated the effects of 13 good solvents for polystyrene as well as the polystyrene concentration on the fabrication process. Solvents with high boiling-point-to-melting-point ratios yielded uniformly sized mesoporous polystyrenes at polymer concentrations ≥20 wt %. Such solvents provided a high specific surface area (328 m2/g) and a large mesopore volume (1.78 g/cm3) at the optimal polystyrene concentration. Solvents with medium-boiling-point-to-melting-point ratios formed bimodal mesopores, while a low polystyrene concentration gave hierarchical structures composed of mesopores and macropores. These results provide an understanding of the mechanism associated with the formation of mesopores and enable control over the desired mesopore morphology.

Background: Dynamic balance is essential for pitching motion because pitching kinematics requires whole body coordination. The Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) and the Y balance test (YBT) evaluate dynamic balance quantitatively. There are some reports that investigated the relationship between SEBT/YBT and pain in upper and lower extremities, but there is no study among high school baseball pitchers.Hypothesis: Dynamic balance deficiency is associated with shoulder pain among high school baseball pitchers.Study Design: Cross-sectional study.Level of Evidence: Level 4.Methods: A total of 259 male high school pitchers who participated in the preseason medical checkups were included in the study. YBT was used to measure their dynamic balance. The participants completed a questionnaire which asked if they were currently experiencing shoulder pain.Results: Twenty-two pitchers had shoulder pain during the preseason medical checkups. In the YBT, the posterolateral balance while standing with the axis leg as well as the posteromedial and posterolateral balance while standing with the step leg were significantly lower in the pain group than in the nonpain group (P= 0.05, 0.04, and 0.001, respectively). A logistic regression analysis showed that posterolateral balance when standing with the step leg was an independent risk factor for current shoulder pain (P= 0.04, odds ratio 0.942, 95% CI 0.892-0.996).Conclusion: The dynamic balance of high school baseball pitchers with shoulder pain was lower than that of participants without shoulder pain. In particular, posterolateral direction with the step leg standing was significantly related to shoulder pain.Clinical Relevance: Among high school baseball pitchers, decreased dynamic balance was related to current shoulder pain. YBT maybe recommended in preseason medical checkups for high school baseball pitchers.

Background: Water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and child health interventions are proven simple and cost-effective strategies for preventing diarrhea and minimizing excess mortality. Individually, they are able to prevent diarrhea though sub-optimally, and their effectiveness when combined may be higher. This study examined the effect of integrated WASH and maternal and child health (MCH) interventions on prevalence of diarrhea, in a resource-limited setting in Kenya. Methods: A controlled intervention was implemented in Narok County. The interventions included WASH interventions integrated with promotion of MCH. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on targeted indicators before and after the interventions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square to establish the impact of the interventions. Results: A total of 431and 424 households and 491 and 487 households in intervention and control sites, respectively, participated in the baseline and endline surveys. Following implementation of the interventions, prevalence of diarrhea decreased by 69.1% (95% CI: 49.6–87.1%) and 58.6% (95% CI: 26.6–82.4%) in the intervention and control site, respectively. Treatment of drinking water and animal husbandry practices were significantly associated with diarrhea post-interventions. Conclusions: Integrating WASH interventions with other diarrhea control strategies and contextualizing them to meet site-specific needs may effectively prevent diarrhea.

Background: Previous studies have shown conflicting evidence regarding the incidence of cancer in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) compared with that in healthy individuals. Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) such as cyclosporine and tacrolimus have been widely used to treat SLE; however, their effects on cancer risk remain unclear. We aimed to investigate the incidence of cancer in patients with SLE and determine the potential association between CNI use and cancer risk. Methods: The standardized incidence ratio (SIR) of cancer among patients with lupus in the Lupus Registry of Nationwide Institutions (LUNA) was calculated based on the age-standardized incidence rate of cancer reported by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. We also examined the association between CNI exposure and cancer risk, while considering potential confounding factors. The analysis accounted for confounding variables such as age, sex, smoking history, maximum glucocorticoid dose, treatment history with cyclophosphamide, ongoing hydroxychloroquine, Systemic Lupus International Collaboration Clinics/American College of Rheumatology Damage Index (SDI) value (excluding cancer occurrence), comorbidity of diabetes mellitus, and smoking history. Results: The study included 704 patients with SLE (625 females; 88.8%) with a median age of 44 years [interquartile range (IQR) = 34–55] years. The median past maximum glucocorticoid dose was 40 mg/day [IQR = 30–60 mg/day], and the SDI at registration was 1 [IQR = 0–2]. Among the patients, 246 (35.1%) had smoking histories, and 38 (5.4%) experienced cancer complications. Gynecological malignancies accounted for 63.2% of all cancers. The SIR of cancer in the LUNA cohort was 1.08 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.74–1.43). No statistically significant risks of cancer were found in relation to CNI treatment history; the odds ratio using multiple logistic regression was 1.12 (95% CI = 0.42–3.00), the risk ratio using standardization was 1.18 (95% CI = 0.47–2.16), and the risk ratio using inverse probability weighting was 1.8 (95% CI = 0.41–4.66). Conclusions: The incidence of cancer in patients with SLE in the LUNA cohort did not significantly differ from that in the general population. These findings suggest that CNI treatment in this cohort did not pose a risk factor for cancer development.

Aim: This study aimed to develop a multiplex PCR assay for simultaneous detection of major Gram-negative etiologies of septicemia and evaluate its performance. Methods: Multiplex PCR (mPCR) assays were developed targeting 11 bacterial strains. Species-specific primers were confirmed using known clinical isolates and standard strains. Gradient PCR was performed on each primer against its target bacterial gene to determine its optimal amplification condition. The minimum detectable DNA concentration of the two assays was evaluated by adjusting bacterial DNA concentration to 100 ng/μL and, tenfold serially diluting it up to 10 pg/μL with DNAse-free water. The diagnostic accuracy of mPCR assays was established by subjecting the assays to 60 clinical blood samples. Results: Two mPCR assays were developed. Optimal primer annealing temperature of 55 °C was established and utilized in the final amplification conditions. The assays detected all targeted bacteria, with a 100 pg minimum detectable DNA concentration. Pathogens were not detected directly from whole blood, but after 4 h and 8 h of incubation, 41% (5/12) and 100% (12/12) of the bacteria were detected in culture fluids, respectively. The assays also identified Salmonellaspp.and Klebsiella pneumoniaeco-infections and extra pathogens (1 E. coliand 2 K. pneumoniae) compared with culture. The sensitivity and specificity of the mPCR were 100.0% (71.7–100.0) and 98.0% (90.7–99.0), respectively. The area under the ROC curve was 1.00 (1.00–1.00). Conclusions: The mPCR assays demonstrated substantial potential as a rapid tool for septicemia diagnosis alongside the traditional blood culture method. Notably, it was able to identify additional isolates, detect co-infections, and efficiently detect low bacterial DNA loads with high sensitivity, implying its value in enhancing efficiency of diagnosis of septicemia.

Abstract To determine the time-course of human subcutaneous hemorrhage, heme oxygenase (HO)-1 expression and macrophage infiltration were observed using an immunohistochemical technique and semiquantitative analysis. The number of immunoreactive cells [...]

One of the mechanisms involved in the progression of diabetic nephropathy, the most common cause of end-stage renal failure, is angiogenic phenomenon associated with the increase of angiogenic factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A and angiopoietin (Ang)-2, an antagonist of Ang-1. In the present study, we examined the therapeutic efficacy of 2-(8-hydroxy-6-methoxy-1-oxo-1H-2-benzopyran-3-yl) propionic acid (NM-3), a small molecule isocoumarin with antiangiogenic activity, using diabetic db/db mice, a model of obese type 2 diabetes. Increases in kidney weight, glomerular volume, creatinine clearance, urinary albumin excretion, total mesangial fraction, glomerular type IV collagen, glomerular endothelial area (CD[31.sup.+]), and monocyte/macrophage accumulation (F4/[80.sup.+]) observed in control db/db mice were significantly suppressed by dally intraperitoneal injection of NM-3 (100 mg/kg, for 8 weeks). Increases in renal expression of VEGF-A, Ang-2, fibrogenic factor transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, and chemokine monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 but not tumor necrosis factor-α were also inhibited by NM-3 in db/db mice. Furthermore, decreases of nephrin mRNA and protein levels in db/db mice were recovered by NM-3. In addition, treatment of db/db mice with NM-3 did not affect body weight, blood glucose, serum insulin, or food consumption. NM-3 significantly suppressed the increase of VEGF induced by high glucose in cultured podocytes and also suppressed the increase of VEGF and TGF-β induced by high glucose in cultured mesangial cells. Taken together, these results demonstrate the potential use of NM-3 as a novel therapeutic agent for renal alterations in type 2 diabetes., Diabetic nephropathy is complicated in 30-40% of patients with type 2 diabetes and is the most common pathological disorder predisposing end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in Japan and the Western world. [...]

Diabetic nephropathy is one of the major microvascular complications in diabetes and is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease worldwide. Among various factors, angiogenesis-associated factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A and angiopoietin (Ang)-2 are involved in the development of diabetic nephropathy. We previously reported the therapeutic efficacy of antiangiogenic tumstatin peptide in the early diabetic nephropathy model. Here, we examine the effect of endostatin peptide, a potent inhibitor of angiogenesis derived fTom type XVIII collagen, in preventing progression in the type 1 diabetic nephropathy mouse model. Endostatin peptide did not affect hyperglycemia induced by streptozotocin (STZ). Glomerular hypertrophy, hyperffltration, and albuminuria were significantly suppressed by endostatin peptide (5 mg/kg) in STZ-induced diabetic mice. Glomeruiar mesangial matrix expansion, the increase of glomerular type IV collagen, endothelial area (CD[31.sup.+]), and F4/[80.sup.+] monocyte/macrophage accumulation were significantly inhibited by endostatin peptide. Increase in the renal expression of VEGF-A, flk-1, Ang-2, an antagonist of angiopoietin-1, transforming growth factor-β1, interleukin-6, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 was inhibited by endostatin peptide in diabetic mice. Decrease of nephrin mRNA and protein in diabetic mice was suppressed by treatment with endostatin peptide. The level of endostatin in the renal cortex and sera was increased in diabetic mice. Endogenous renal levels of endostatin were decreased in endostatin peptide-treated groups in parallel with VEGF-A. Although serum levels of endostatin were decreased in the low-dose endostatin-peptide group, high-dose administration resulted in elevated serum levels of endostatin. These results demonstrate the potential use of antiangiogenic endostatin peptide as a novel therapeutic agent in diabetic nephropathy., Diabetic nephropathy is a complication in 30-40% of patients with type 2 diabetes and is the most common pathological disorder predisposing end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in Japan and in the [...]

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jtcvs.2004.05.030 Byline: Ryosuke Tsuchiya (a), Kenji Suzuki (a), Yukito Ichinose (b), Yoh Watanabe (c), Tsutomu Yasumitsu (d), Naoki Ishizuka (e), Harubumi Kato (f) Abstract: Indications for surgical intervention for very limited small cell lung cancer have not yet been determined. The objective of this study is to determine whether resection followed by cisplatin and etoposide is feasible. Author Affiliation: (a) Division of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo (b) Department of Thoracic Oncology of the National Kyushu Cancer Center, Kyushu (c) Department of Surgery of the University of Kanazawa, Kanazawa (d) Department of Surgery of the Habikino Hospital, Osaka (e) JCOG Data Center of the National Cancer Center, Tokyo (f) Department of Surgery of the Tokyo Medical College, Tokyo, Japan; and the Lung Cancer Surgical Study Group of Japan Clinical Oncology Group Article History: Received 3 September 2003; Revised 21 April 2004; Accepted 6 May 2004 Article Note: (footnote) Supported in part by a Grant-in-Aid for Cancer Research from the Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Abstract The size-effect on bond strength between deformed bars and concrete is investigated using pullout and lap splice tests. The specimen parameters include bar diameter (up to 52 mm), rib [...]

Newborn's sleeping position by mothers' and nursery staff is assessed to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Exclusive supine sleep position is recommended, and mothers and nursery staff are educated about it.

Prognostic relevance of differentiation grade has remained controversial in gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC) after curative resection.

Background: Diesel exhaust particles (DEP) synergistically aggravate acute lung injury related to lipopolysaccharide (IPS) in mice, but the camponents in DEP responsible far this have not been identified. A study [...]

Background: Bestatin is a potent aminopeptidase inhibitor that has immunostimulant and antitumor activity. We conducted a prospective randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to determine whether postoperative adjuvant treatment with bestatin could prolong the survival of patients with completely resected stage I squamous-cell lung carcinoma. Methods: Patients with confirmed, resected stage I squamous-cell lung carcinoma were randomly assigned to receive either bestatin (30 mg) or placebo daily by mouth for 2 years. We assessed whether bestatin treatment was associated with overall survival and 5-year cancer-free survival and assessed its safety. All statistical tests were two-sided. Results: From July 8, 1992, through March 30, 1995, 402 patients were entered in the study, 202 in the bestatin group and 198 in the placebo group. The median follow-up for surviving patients was 76 months (range = 58-92 months). The 5-year overall survival was 81% in the bestatin group and 74% in the placebo group for a difference of 7% (95% confidence interval [CI] = -1.4% to 15.0%). The 5-year cancer-free survival was 71% in the bestatin group and 62% in the placebo group for a difference of 9% (95% CI = -0.7% to 17.8%). Overall survival (P = .033, log-rank test) and cancer-free survival (P = .017, log-rank test) were statistically significantly different by Kaplan-Meier analysis. Few adverse events were observed in either group. Conclusions: Survival was statistically significantly better for patients with completely resected stage I squamous-cell lung carcinoma who were treated with bestatin as a postoperative adjuvant therapy than for those who received a placebo. This result requires confirmation in other phase III trials.

Background: Reactive nitrogen species (RNS) have a number of inflammatory actions and the production of these molecules has been reported to be increased in the airways of patients with chronic [...]

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Carbon nanoarchitectures derived from biobased building blocks are potential sustainable alternatives to electrode materials generated with petroleum-derived resources. We aim at developing a fundamental understanding on the connection between the structure and electrochemical performance of porous carbon nanofiber (PCNF) architectures from the polysaccharide chitosan as a biobased building block. We fabricated a range of PCNF architectures from the chitosan carbon precursor and tailored their structure by varying the amount and molecular weight of the sacrificial pore-forming polymer poly(ethylene oxide). The morphology (high-resolution scanning electron microscopy), carbon structure (X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy), pore network (N2gas adsorption, small-angle X-ray scattering), and surface/bulk composition (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) were studied in detail together with a comprehensive electrochemical analysis on the fabricated electrodes. In supercapacitor devices, the best-performing freestanding electrode had (1) a high accessible surface area (as,BET≈ 700 m2g–1) and hierarchical pore network (micro- and mesopores) providing a fast ion diffusion process, high specific capacitance, and rate capability, (2) surface chemistry allowing a high Coulombic efficiency by avoiding parasitic Faradaic side reactions, and (3) a unique turbostratic carbon nanostructure leading to low charge transfer resistance while keeping good electrical conductivity. This electrode exhibited good stability over 2000 cycles (at 2 A g–1) with high capacitance retention (>80%) and charge efficiency (>90%). In the capacitive deionization (CDI) device, our electrode demonstrated an ultrahigh salt adsorption capacity of 23.6 mg g–1, which is among the state-of-the-art values reported for a biobased carbon. A high charge efficiency (85%) was achieved during the CDI process using low-cost materials, in contrast to similarly performing devices fabricated with expensive ion exchange membranes or petroleum-based carbon precursors. Our results demonstrate that inexpensive chitosan-based materials can be readily transformed in one carbonization step without any aggressive activating chemicals into tailor-made hierarchically ordered state-of-the-art carbon materials for charge storage devices.

BackgroundPrehospital stroke triage scales help with the decision to transport patients with suspected stroke to suitable hospitals.ObjectiveTo explore the effect of the region-wide use of the Japan Urgent Stroke Triage (JUST) score, which can predict several types of stroke: large vessel occlusion (LVO), intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), and cerebral infarction other than LVO (CI).MethodsWe implemented the JUST score and conducted a retrospective and prospective multicenter cohort study at 13 centers in Hiroshima from April 1, 2018, to March 31, 2020. We investigated the success rate of the first request to the hospital, on-scene time, and transport time to hospital. We evaluated the door-to-puncture time, puncture-to-reperfusion time, and 90-day outcome among patients with final diagnoses of LVO.ResultsThe cohort included 5141 patients (2735 before and 2406 after JUST score implementation). Before JUST score implementation, 1269 strokes (46.4%) occurred, including 140 LVO (5.1%), 394 ICH (14.4%), 120 SAH (4.4%), and 615 CI (22.5%). The JUST score was used in 1484 (61.7%) of the 2406 patients after implementation, which included 1267 (52.7%) cases of stroke (186 LVO (7.7%), 405 ICH (16.8%), 109 SAH (4.5%), and 567 CI (23.6%)). Success rate of the first request to the hospital significantly increased after JUST score implementation (76.3% vs 79.7%, p=0.004). JUST score implementation significantly shortened the door-to-puncture time (84 vs 73 min, p=0.03), but the prognosis remained unaltered among patients with acute LVO.ConclusionsUse of prehospital stroke triage scales improved prehospital management and preparation time of intervention among patients with acute stroke.