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While low‐resolution climate models at present struggle to appropriately simulate convectively coupled large‐scale atmospheric disturbances such as equatorial Kelvin waves (EKWs), superparameterization helps better reproduce such phenomena. To evaluate such model differences based on physical mechanisms, a linearized theoretical framework of convectively coupled EKWs was developed in a form readily applicable to model evaluation by allowing background stability and diabatic heating to have arbitrary vertical profiles rather than assuming simplified ones. A system of linearized equations of convection‐coupled gravity waves was derived as a two‐dimensional model of the convectively coupled EKWs. In this work, the basic states are taken from observations, CTL‐MIROC and SP‐MIROC experiments introduced in Part 1. The tendency of convectively coupled gravity waves to grow faster under top‐heavy heating is confirmed for realistic stratification profiles, as found in previous studies under constant stratifications. A comparison of linear unstable solutions with basic states taken from SP‐MIROC and CTL‐MIROC shows that the top‐heavy heating profile in SP‐MIROC largely contributes to the enhancement of the EKW‐like unstable modes, while subtle differences of stratification profiles considerably affect EKW behaviors. The bottom‐heavy heating bias in the CTL‐MIROC likely originates from insufficient modeling of subgrid stratiform precipitation in tropical organized systems. It is desirable to incorporate such stratiform components in cumulus parameterizations to achieve better EKW reproducibility. Plain Language Summary: Present global climate models (GCMs) cannot resolve small‐scale cumulus convection. Hence, they cannot reproduce sufficient amplitudes of convectively coupled large‐scale atmospheric disturbances such as the equatorial Kelvin wave (EKW). In contrast, high‐resolution models that explicitly simulate cumulus convection can reproduce these disturbances better. In this study, a linearized theoretical framework of the convectively coupled EKW was developed to interpret and evaluate model behavior. Using this framework, EKWs simulated by different models were compared based on their physical mechanisms. The basic states were taken from observations and MIROC simulations introduced in Part 1. The tendency of EKWs to grow under a top‐heavy heating condition was confirmed under realistic stratification profiles as found in previous studies under constant stratifications. A comparison of linear unstable solutions with the basic states taken from the MIROC simulations showed that the heating altitude is the most important factor for enhancing the EKW‐like unstable modes, while stratification profiles can sometimes considerably affect EKW growth. Bottom‐heavy heating bias in the conventional MIROC likely originates from insufficient parameterization of organized precipitating systems in the tropics. It is desirable to incorporate such stratiform components in the cumulus parameterization to achieve better EKW reproducibility. Key Points: A linearized model of the EKW is derived in a form readily applicable to evaluation of numerical simulationsSuperparameterized MIROC enhanced EKW amplitudes through top‐heavy heating profilesTo improve EKW reproducibility, GCMs need better representation of tropical stratiform precipitation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential scope of superparameterization (SP) was extended to higher resolutions of the global climate model (GCM) component by devising a technique called blockwise coupling. In this method, a horizontal average of multiple GCM columns, instead of one, is coupled to a cloud‐resolving model (CRM) domain. This enables SP‐GCMs to reduce the computational cost drastically, enabling higher‐resolution GCMs to be superparameterized. A blockwise‐coupled SP‐GCM called SP‐MIROC was implemented by coupling the climate model MIROC6 to the CRM SCALE‐RM. The 4 × 4‐bundled SP‐MIROC successfully reproduced horizontal patterns and frequency distributions of precipitation and realistic amplitudes of equatorial Kelvin waves (EKWs), which were underestimated in the standard MIROC6. As discussed in Yamazaki and Miura (2024b, https://doi.org/10.1029/2023MS003837) of this study, the amplitude boost of EKWs was enabled by a top‐heavy heating in SP‐MIROC. Comparison of power spectra between the 4 × 4‐bundled SP‐MIROC and nonbundled SP‐MIROC indicated that the effective resolution of dynamic variables was not degraded by the blockwise technique. Rather, spectra in the 4 × 4‐bundled SP‐MIROC were more realistic than those in the nonbundled SP‐MIROC. Although the 4 × 4‐bundling limits convective coupling in the smallest GCM scale, it could offer the best match of resolutions between the GCM‐handled dynamics and SP‐derived physics because the effective resolution of the dynamics is lower than the nominal grid spacing. Plain Language Summary: Superparameterization is a technique to explicitly simulate subgrid clouds in low‐resolution global climate models (GCMs) by coupling small domains of a high‐resolution cloud‐resolving model (CRM). This study expands the superparameterization technique by proposing and verifying blockwise coupling, in which a CRM domain is coupled to an average of multiple GCM columns; in contrast, the existing superparameterized (SP) models employ one‐to‐one coupling between a CRM and a GCM column. We implemented a SP‐GCM by coupling the climate model MIROC6 and the SCALE‐RM CRM with 4 × 4‐to‐one blockwise coupling. Multiple benefits in existing SP‐GCMs are reproduced in the simulation results of the blockwise‐coupled SP‐MIROC. Furthermore, 4 × 4‐bundled SP‐MIROC outperformed the one‐to‐one SP‐MIROC in terms of reproducing realistic zonal spectra. Blockwise coupling will drastically reduce computational costs, making superparameterization in higher‐resolution GCMs affordable. Key Points: A superparameterized version of the climate model MIROC6 named superparameterized (SP)‐MIROC was developedComputational cost is reduced by coupling a cloud‐resolving model domain to a block of multiple global climate model columns, instead of oneBlockwise‐coupled SP‐MIROC reproduced most benefits of SP without losing the effective resolution of dynamic variables [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces a novel diagnostic method to assess tropical atmosphere‐ocean coupling, using a two‐dimensional plane defined by the 90‐day high‐pass‐filtered sea surface temperature (SST) and column water vapor (CWV). The method was applied to reanalysis data and high‐resolution coupled atmosphere‐ocean simulation data. In the Indo–Pacific warm pool region, the phase relationship between SST and CWV remained consistent across both reanalysis and simulation data sets. However, differences in the temporal evolution of these variables were observed in the central Pacific region. The heat budget analysis results indicate that the differences between the two data sets in the central Pacific are related to variations in the effects of atmospheric disturbances on SST. This study demonstrates the potential of our novel diagnostic method for evaluating atmosphere–ocean coupling in climate models. Plain Language Summary: Weather disturbances in the tropics develop from the interaction between the ocean and the atmosphere. We can use climate models to investigate the impact of this interaction, but we need other methods to evaluate the interaction itself. In this study, we develop a new way to understand how the atmosphere and the ocean interact in the tropics. We achieve this by focusing on changes over time in the sea surface temperature and the amount of water vapor in the air. We found that these changes happen at different rates in different regions of the ocean. We also found that a climate model failed to capture these changes in some regions. Our new method improves our understanding of the atmosphere and ocean interaction and teaches us how to improve climate models. Key Points: A novel analysis method was developed to illustrate regional differences in the atmosphere‐ocean coupling across tropical oceansThe application of this diagnostic method to the reanalysis and coupled model data revealed differences in the central Pacific regionThrough heat budget analysis, we proposed distinct processes by which atmospheric disturbances change the sea surface temperatures [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We analyzed 3 hematopoietic stem cell transplant ( HSCT) recipients with inherited chromosomally integrated human herpesvirus-6 (inherited CIHHV-6). Cases 1 (inherited CIHHV-6A) and 2 (inherited CIHHV-6B) were inherited CIHHV-6 recipients. Case 3 received bone marrow from a donor with inherited CIHHV-6B. Following HSCT, HHV-6B was isolated from Case 1. HHV-6A and -6B messenger RNAs were detected in Cases 1 and 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The aim of this study was to define the profile of unemployed dental hygienists who could be enticed to re-enter the workforce and the factors that could facilitate their re-entry into the dental field in Japan. Methods The questionnaire was mailed with a postage-paid return envelope to a sample of 3095 licensed dental hygienists. A 50.4% response rate ( S = 1477) was observed. Results The rate of working dental hygienists was 60.3% ( n = 891), and of unemployed dental hygienists was 39.7% ( n = 586). Of the latter, 31.9% ( n = 187) stated intentions of returning to the workplace. The unemployed dental hygienists seeking employment were more often married and had more children, compared with working dental hygienists currently. This group also had significantly fewer total service years. Moreover, only 11.96% of them belonged to the Japan Dental Hygienists' Association, and 41.3% of those attended training workshops. According to their response, they perceived their top three major barriers to re-entry as 'lack sufficient dental hygiene skill', 'child rearing' and 'poor working atmosphere'. 'Flexibility in the work schedule' and 'location' were the most important factors for re-entry from their perspective. Conclusion There were not many dental hygienists hoping to return to the dental field. The findings suggested that strategies to encourage non-practicing dental hygienists to re-entry should be emphasized in the areas of a flexible working atmosphere, easy access to information on how to return to practice and guidance on how to maintain professionalism during inactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents Porcine embryonic fibroblasts (PEFs) are widely used as donor cells for somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) in pigs. Transfection of PEFs with exogenous DNA is essential for producing genetically modified (GM; transgenic or knockout) pigs via SCNT. In this case, selectable markers are strictly required selecting and enriching stably transfected cells. The most frequently used selective drug for this purpose is a neomycin analogue (G418/geneticin); neo has been widely used as a selectable marker gene in the genomic manipulation of pigs. However, little is known about optimal concentrations of other selection drugs. This often hampers functional analysis of the porcine genome and development of individual GM pigs. This study explores the optimal concentrations of selective drugs, other than neomycin, that can be used for the selection of transfected PEFs. Porcine embryonic fibroblasts were incubated in media containing different concentrations of drugs for up to 10 days, to determine the optimal drug concentrations fatal for PEFs. The following concentrations were found to be optimal selective concentrations for use with PEFs: G418/geneticin, 400 μg/ml; blasticidin S, 8 μg/ml; hygromycin B, 40 μg/ml; puromycin, 2 μg/ml; and zeocin, 800 μg/ml. Repeated transfections with plasmids carrying selectable markers resulted in the generation of multidrug-resistant swine transfectants. Furthermore, these markers were found to be independent. The present information will be useful for the production of SCNT-mediated GM piglets that express multiple transgenes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In prosthodontic treatment, the occlusal form should be designed such that bite force is applied at the position that has higher load-bearing capacity and is comfortable for the patient. The purpose of this study was to clarify the differences in bite force and occlusal sensation with different loading positions on the occlusal surface. Methods: Twelve healthy subjects were recruited for this study. Bite force and occlusal sensation were measured at five loading points on the upper and lower left first molars. Occlusal sensation was evaluated using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Results: Bite forces on the lingual side of the upper first molar and the buccal side of the lower first molar were significantly higher and VAS scores were significantly lower, i.e. the subjects felt less discomfort during biting on the buccal side of the upper first molar and the lingual side of the lower first molar compared to the other side of each molar. Conclusions: Loading on the occlusal surfaces of the functional cusps of the upper and lower first molars produces more load-bearing capacity and is more comfortable than loading on the non-functional cusps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing need for long-term care in older adults is expected with the ageing of Japan's population. The aim of the present study was to show the relationship between perceived chewing ability and long-term care needs for over 5 years in elderly persons. The chewing ability of 812 elderly persons living independently was evaluated at baseline using self-assessed masticatory ability, and it was classified into one of three categories: ability to chew all foods (good masticatory ability), ability to chew only slightly hard food (fair masticatory ability), and ability to only chew soft or pureed food (poor masticatory ability). Participants' care needs were then followed through Japan's long-term care insurance system for over 5 years. The log-rank test and Cox proportional hazard model were used to examine statistical differences in the frequency of care-needs certification between participants with good and fair or poor masticatory ability. Among participants aged 65-79 years, the frequency of care-needs certification was significantly higher in those with fair or poor masticatory ability than in those with good masticatory ability, and the relative hazard ratio was significantly higher in those with fair or poor masticatory ability than in those with good masticatory ability, after adjusting for age, gender, current employment status, educational background, social interaction, chronic medical conditions and dentition status. These relationships were not found among those aged 80-93 years. Impairment in perceived chewing ability may be associated with higher incidence of certification in Japan's long-term care insurance system among elderly persons aged 65-79. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Among the elderly, the quality of higher brain function is a contributing factor in performing activities of daily living. The aim of the study is to elucidate, epidemiologically, associations between mastication and higher brain function. A total of 208 community-dwelling elderly persons, aged 70-74 years, were enrolled. Self-assessed masticatory ability (masticatory ability) was classified into one of three categories: ability to chew all kinds of food, ability to chew only slightly hard food, or ability to chew only soft or pureed food. Brain function was assessed by four neuropsychological tests: Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test, the Verbal Paired Associates 1 (VerPA) task and the Visual Paired Associates 1 task (from the Wechsler Memory Scale Revised Edition), and the Block Design subtest (from the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scales-Third Edition). Correlations between masticatory ability and each test were examined using Spearman rank correlation coefficients. Multinominal logistic regression models were conducted with the neuropsychological tests as the dependent variables and masticatory ability as the principal independent variable to adjust for age, gender, educational background, social activity, drinking/smoking habits, chronic medical conditions and dental status. Significant correlations were found between the RCPM test, the VerPA task, the Block Design test and masticatory ability. In multinominal logistic regression models, poor masticatory ability was significantly and independently related to the categories under the mean−s.d. points compared with those of the mean ± s.d. ranges for RCPM test and the VerPA task. Significant associations may exist between mastication and higher brain function among the elderly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary The aim of the present study was to elucidate whether self-assessed masticatory ability (masticatory ability) is significantly related to muscle strength of the body evaluated as handgrip strength and skeletal muscle mass of the whole body (kg) (SMM) after adjusting for confounding variables, including, age, gender, height, weight, employment status, type of household, educational background, social interaction, chronic medical conditions, smoking habit, drinking habits and dentition status among the elderly. A total of 381 persons aged 67-74 years were enrolled. Masticatory ability was classified into one of three categories: ability to chew all kinds of food, ability to chew only slightly hard food or ability to chew only soft or pureed food. Handgrip strength was measured, and bioimpedance analysis was used to estimate SMM. One-way analysis of variance and Bonferroni methods were used to examine differences in handgrip strength and SMM among the three groups of masticatory ability. An ordinal regression model was conducted with masticatory ability as the dependent variable and handgrip strength as the principal independent variable. Handgrip strength was significantly lower in those individuals who could chew only soft or pureed food than in those individuals who could chew all kinds of food. No significant difference in SMM was found among the three groups of masticatory ability. Masticatory ability was significantly related to handgrip strength after adjusting for SMM, dentition status and background factors. Chewing ability may be related to muscle strength of the body evaluated as handgrip strength, but not evaluated as SMM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating medical costs are a social problem in many countries. Masticatory ability is thought to be related to the general health conditions. The purpose of this study was to show relationships between self-assessed masticatory ability and medical costs among the elderly living independently in community. Data on background factors and self-assessed masticatory ability were collected from 702 Japanese elderly persons by questionnaires. An intra-oral examination was performed to examine the number of remaining teeth. Self-assessed masticatory ability was classified into one of three categories: ability to chew all kinds of food (Good), ability to chew only slightly hard food (Fair) or ability to chew only soft or pureed food (Poor). Data on the annual medical excluding dental costs were obtained from the Japanese National Health Insurance system. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to examine differences in outpatient costs and hospitalisation costs among the three groups of self-assessed masticatory ability. Univariate unconditional logistic regression models and multivariate logistic regression models were used with medical costs as the dependent variable and self-assessed masticatory ability as the principal independent variable. A significant difference ( P = 0·039) in hospitalisation costs but not outpatient costs was found among the three groups of self-assessed masticatory ability. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that severely impaired masticatory ability (Poor) was significantly related to higher costs of hospitalisation. Self-assessed impairment of masticatory ability may be a significant and independent indicator of higher costs of hospitalisation among community-dwelling elderly persons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nozaki K, Kaku M, Yamashita Y, Yamauchi M, Miura H. Effect of cyclic mechanical loading on osteoclast recruitment in periodontal tissue. J Periodont Res 2009; doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0765.2008.01193.x. © 2009 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2009 Blackwell Munksgaard Background and Objective: It is well accepted that cyclic mechanical loading induces osteoclastogenesis in periodontal tissue, but its molecular mechanisms are not well understood, in part because of a lack of appropriate models. In this study, we investigated a novel device that allows cyclic mechanical loading to be performed in a well-controlled manner. Furthermore, by employing this model, the effect of cyclic loading on osteoclast recruitment in the periodontal tissue was described. Material and Methods: By using a newly developed device, the cyclic loading of 20 n (reference loading corresponding to the fracture hardness of dietary pellets) and two excessive loadings (i.e. 30 and 40 n) were applied to maxillary right molars in rats for up to 7 d, and osteoclast recruitment in the periodontal tissue was evaluated by analyzing relevant marker proteins using immunohistochemistry. Results: Osteoclastogenesis was induced by day 3 within alveolar bone subjected to a compression force of 30 n. With both 30 and 40 n loadings, cells that were positive to for tartrate-resistant acid phosphate, receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand and osteoprotegerin were significantly increased in the alveolar bone/periodontal ligament in a time-dependent manner. Conclusion: A new device was developed that allows various levels of cyclic mechanical loading to be exerted. By using this device in rats, early events of osteoclast recruitment in the periodontal tissues were observed with excessive loadings in a time-dependent manner, indicating the usefulness of this model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The basic and clinical implications of evaluating plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) concentration in calves are unknown. Objective: To investigate the relationship between the plasma ANP concentration and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) in healthy calves subjected to volume overload (Study 1), and to compare the plasma ANP concentration in calves with or without heart disease (Study 2). Animals: Six healthy calves were used in Study 1; disease calves and sick calves with (n = 9) and without congenital heart disease (CHD) (n = 9) were used in Study 2. Methods: In Study 1, LVEDP in anesthetized calves was manipulated by IV administration of acetated Ringer's solution (rate of 100 mL/kg/h for 20 minutes) and furosemide. In Study 2, disease calves were identified by blood examination and echocardiography or pathological examination. The plasma ANP concentration was determined by a chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay for human α-ANP. Results: In Study 1, preloading significantly increased the plasma ANP concentration (36 ± 20–185 ± 156, P < .01) and LVEDP (−11 ± 7–2 ± 12, P < .01) from the baseline. Furthermore, plasma ANP concentrations were strongly correlated with LVEDP ( r= 0.61). In Study 2, the plasma ANP concentration was significantly higher in the calves with CHD than in the calves without heart disease (220 [67–970] versus 31 [10–86]; mean [range], P < .001). Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Measurement of plasma ANP concentrations in calves can provide additional information useful for predicting hemodynamic abnormalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Finite element analysis of clinical computed tomography (CT) scans provides a noninvasive means of assessing vertebral strength that is superior to dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA)-measured areal bone mineral density. The present study was undertaken to compare strength changes, measured using this newer method, in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients who were treated with alendronate (ALN) versus those who were not. METHODS: Thirty female RA patients without radiologic signs of L3 compression fractures or a history of osteoporosis medication were enrolled in a prospective randomized clinical trial. Patients were randomly assigned to the ALN group (5 mg orally, once daily) or the control group not receiving antiresorptive treatment. All patients were evaluated by DXA and quantitative CT at baseline and reevaluated after a mean of 12.2 months. Nonlinear finite element analysis was performed on the CT scans (n = 29 available for analysis) to compute an estimate of vertebral compressive strength and to assess strength changes associated with changes in the trabecular compartment and the outer 2 mm of bone (peripheral compartment). RESULTS: On average, vertebral strength was significantly decreased from baseline in the control group (n = 15) (median change -10.6%; P = 0.008) but was maintained in the ALN group (n = 14) (median change +0.4%; P = 0.55), with a significant difference between the 2 groups (P < 0.01). Strength decreased more rapidly within the trabecular bone, and ALN treatment was much more effective in the peripheral than the trabecular compartment. CONCLUSION: Our results indicate that patients with RA can lose a substantial amount of vertebral strength over a relatively short period of time, and this loss can be prevented by ALN, primarily via its positive effect on the outer 2 mm of vertebral bone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designs of removable partial dentures are suggested to affect the mobility of abutment teeth and removable partial denture (RPD) during oral functions. This study aimed to examine the effect of direct retainer and major connector designs on RPD dynamics under simulated loading. Six different Kennedy class II maxillary RPDs were fabricated on a maxillary model. These dentures involved 3 different direct retainers (wrought-wire clasp, RPA clasp, and conical crown telescopic retainer) and 2 different major connectors (Co-Cr major connector and heat-cured acrylic resin with a metal strengthener). Using an experimental model with simulated periodontal ligaments and mucosa that were fabricated using silicone impression material, three-dimensional displacements of the RPDs were measured under a simulated 30-N loading with a displacement transducer type M-3. Significant effects of “direct retainer design” on bucco-palatal displacements and “major connector” on mesio-distal displacements were revealed by 2 × 3 two-way analysis of variance of abutment teeth movements ( P < 0·001 and P = 0·002, respectively). Additionally, analysis of variance of RPD displacements revealed significant effects of “direct retainer design” on corono-apical displacements and “major connector” on mesio-distal displacements ( P = 0·001 and P = 0·028, respectively). Rigid direct retainers and rigid major connectors decrease the movements of both abutment tooth and RPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to develop a new assessment scale to evaluate the risk of chewing and swallowing disorders among frail community-dwelling elderly individuals. Subjects were 85 frail elderly individuals (29 men and 56 women) living in southern Japan. First, we pooled 18 subjectively evaluated variables identified by previous studies as being related to chewing and swallowing disorders. Secondly, using factor analysis, we extracted 12 variables as the ‘dysphagia risk assessment for the community-dwelling elderly’ (DRACE) and examined its reliability using Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Thirdly, we examined the validity of the DRACE by comparing it with an existing method for evaluating dysphagia. Cronbach's alpha coefficient of the DRACE was 0·88, indicating satisfactory reliability. Dysphagia risk assessment for the community-dwelling elderly scores were significantly related to the results of the 3-oz water test ( P < 0·01). Furthermore, DRACE scores were closely associated with activities of daily living as evaluated by the Barthel index, a tendency that was consistent with previous studies. These findings suggest that the DRACE is a useful tool with sufficient reliability and validity to detect latent risk of chewing and swallowing disorders among frail community-dwelling elderly individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several lines of evidence suggest that metabolic changes in the kynurenic acid (KYNA) pathway are related to the etiology of schizophrenia. The inhibitor of kynurenine 3-monooxygenase (KMO) is known to increase KYNA levels, and the KMO gene is located in the chromosome region associated with schizophrenia, 1q42-q44. Single-marker and haplotype analyses for 6-tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of KMO were performed (cases = 465, controls = 440). Significant association of rs2275163 with schizophrenia was observed by single-marker comparisons ( P = 0.032) and haplotype analysis including this SNP ( P = 0.0049). Significant association of rs2275163 and haplotype was not replicated using a second, independent set of samples (cases = 480, controls = 448) ( P = 0.706 and P = 0.689, respectively). These results suggest that the KMO is unlikely to be related to the development of schizophrenia in Japanese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The morbidity and mortality of the dependent elderly that result from aspiration pneumonia have been recognised as a major geriatric health problem. The tongue has an extremely large surface area and due to its papillary structure can retain considerable quantities of food, and thus can support and harbour a large bacterial population. The purpose of this study was to gain more information on the microflora of the tongue surface and to assess the existence of oral infectious pathogens potentially causing respiratory disease in nursing home residents. Subjects and methods: The tongue bacterial flora of 69 nursing home residents were examined to identify microorganisms by the culture method. Results: Thirteen species of microorganisms were detected from the tongue in this study. In 41 of 69 subjects (59%), potential respiratory pathogens, had colonised the tongue surface. Conclusion: The results of the present study revealed that bacteria that commonly cause respiratory infection colonised the tongue of nursing home residents, suggesting that it may function as a reservoir of potential respiratory pathogens to facilitate colonisation on the oropharynx. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The regional tensile bond strengths of two dual-cure composite resin core materials to root canal dentine using either a one or two-step self-etching adhesive were evaluated. Extracted premolar teeth were decoronated and their root canals prepared to a depth of 8 mm and a width of 1·4 mm. In one group, a one-step self-etching adhesive (Unifil Self-etching Bond) was applied to the walls of the post-space and light-cured for 10 s. After which, the post-spaces were filled with the a dual-cure composite resin (Unifil Core) and then half the specimens were light-cured for 60 s and the other half placed in darkness for 30 min. In the second group, a self-etching primer (ED Primer II) was applied for 30 s, followed by an adhesive resin (Clearfil Photo Bond), which was light-cured for 10 s. The post-spaces were filled with a dual-cure composite resin (DC Core) and then half the specimens were light-cured for 60 s and the other half placed in darkness for 30 min. Chemical-cure composite resin was placed on the outer surfaces of all the roots, which were then stored in water for 24 h. They were serially sliced perpendicular to the bonded interface into 8, 0·6 mm-thick slabs, and then transversely sectioned into beams, approximately 8 × 0·6 × 0·6 mm, for the microtensile bond strength test (μTBS). Data were divided into two (coronal/apical half of post-space) and analysed using three-wayanovaand Scheffe's test (P < 0·05). Failure modes were observed under an scanning electron microscope (SEM) and statistically analysed. Specimens for observation of the bonded interfaces were prepared in a similar manner as for bond strength testing, cut in half and embedded in epoxy resin. They were then polished to a high gloss, gold sputter coated, and after argon ion etching, observed under an SEM. For both dual-cure composite resins and curing strategies, there were no significant differences inμTBS between the coronal and apical regions (P > 0·05). In addition, both dual-cure composite resins exhibited no significant differences inμTBS irrespective of whether polymerization was chemically or photoinitiated (P > 0·05). Both dual-cure composite resins exhibited good bonding to root canal dentin, which was not dependent upon region or mode of polymerization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Testicular sperm extraction (TESE) combined with intracytoplasmic sperm injection is becoming a first-line treatment even for non-obstructive azoospermia. The current focus of TESE is the identification of seminiferous tubules that contain spermatozoa and minimization of testicular damage. Although microdissection TESE has been introduced as a preferred procedure for sperm retrieval, no serial follow-up studies of testicular damage have been reported. In the present study, we assayed serum testosterone concentrations and for the presence of antisperm antibodies (ASA) for 1 year after conventional multiple TESE or microdissection TESE and compared postoperative testicular damage between procedures. Thirteen patients who underwent conventional multiple TESE and 12 patients who underwent microdissection TESE were included in this study. Serum total and free testosterone concentrations were evaluated before operation and 1, 6 and 12 months after TESE. Serum ASA was also evaluated before and 12 months after TESE. Serum total and free testosterone concentrations in all patients in both groups showed no significant postoperative decrease. A comparison between the two groups of serum total and free testosterone concentrations showed no significant difference (total testosterone, p = 0.2477; free testosterone, p = 0.3098). No incidence of new ASA formation was identified in the present study. In conclusion, TESE procedures cause neither a decrease of serum testosterone nor formation of ASA. Serum testosterone concentration are similar between patients in the conventional multiple TESE and microdissection groups. Therefore, microdissection TESE is safe with respect to testicular damage, particularly for patients with hypogonadism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A dwarfing effect of the 44.1 cM chromosomal region between the threshability gene Q and Xfba068 on the long arm of hexaploid wheat chromosome 5A has been reported. To clarify whether Q or its adjacent region is responsible for regulating culm elongation, two precise genetic stocks of near-isogenic lines (NIL), a single chromosome substitution line, ‘Chinese Spring’ (CS; ‘Cappelle-Desprez’ 5A) (NIL- Q) and a single chromosome recombinant substitution line (NIL- q) were used. The target segment of NIL- q included the q allele and QEet.ocs-5A.1, an earliness per se gene, from spelt wheat in the CS genetic background. They were grown under 16-h day length with and/or without vernalization treatment. Being independent of heading date, NIL- Q showed shorter elongation in lower internodes and decreased internode differentiation in comparison with NIL- q. The culm-length reduction associated with Q was confirmed in the recombinant F5 population derived from the cross between NIL- Q and NIL- q. Vernalization promotion had a tendency to reduce this dwarfing effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

summary In Japan, the elderly population suffering from dementia is rapidly increasing. Several animal studies have indicated a relationship between reduced masticatory function in the elderly subject and cognitive impairment. However, epidemiological studies examining this have been scarce. Using an epidemiological approach, the present study investigated this relationship in 44 females with and 44 without dementia, all aged over 65 years. Age and basic activities of daily living, such as walking, eating, excreting, bathing and dressing, were matched in the two groups. Cognitive impairment of the subjects was measured using the revised Hasegawa Dementia Rating Scale. Masticatory function was assessed in terms of the number of teeth present, maximum bite force, occlusal contact area, and mastication score. The number of teeth present in cognitively normal subjects was significantly higher than in cognitively impaired subjects (P < 0·05). In addition, maximum bite force, occlusal contact area, and mastication scores of cognitively normal subjects were significantly higher than those of cognitively impaired subjects (P < 0·01). These results suggest that masticatory function in the elderly person is associated with cognitive status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary In five subjects, bilateral condylar movement was assessed during lateral excursions with different tooth guidance angles without changing the intercuspal position. Statistical analysis of anova (P < 0·01) revealed that when the incisal path angle became steeper than the natural tooth guidance, distances of the non-working side condyle paths (centre of condyle) decreased significantly, while distances of the working side condyle paths (centre of condyle) remained unchanged. Directions of the working side condyle paths were random, while directions of the non-working side condyle paths remained stable. By analysing six points around the centre of the condyle, it was not possible to confirm any affect on the working side condyle movement by changing the tooth guidance angle. It was revealed that the non-working side condyle had an ‘active’ role during lateral excursions, and that the working side condyle moved as a result of mandibular movement that was changed because of a steepening of the incisal path angle during lateral excursions. This suggests the possibility that the working side condyle movements were affected ‘passively’ by altering the tooth guidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

QEet.ocs-5A.1 , a quantitative trait locus controlling ear emergence time, has been detected on wheat chromosome 5AL using single chromosome recombinant lines (SCRs) developed from a cross between `Chinese Spring' (CS) (`Cappelle-Desprez' 5A) and CS (Triticum spelta 5A). This locus has little influence on grain yield and its components, and thus has breeding potential for changing ear emergence time without yield reduction. To characterize the phenotypic expression of QEet.ocs.1 and to test its interaction with the Vrn-A1 gene for vernalization response, six near-isogenic SCRs differing for these two gene regions were grown together with the parental controls under different vernalization and photoperiod regimes. The T. spelta allele of QEet.ocs.1 accelerated heading time when vernalization and photoperiod were satisfied, demonstrating that the function of this QTL is earliness per se . There was no interaction between Vrn-A1 and QEet.ocs.1 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Preharvest sprouting (PHS) in wheat represents a major constraint to the production of high-quality grain. Genetic variation for tolerance to PHS is associated with seed dormancy. The present study was initiated to detect homologous chromosome variation associated with seed dormancy genes in a PHS tolerant cultivar ‘Zenkojikomugi’ (Zen) and ‘Chinese Spring’ (CS) using the backcross reciprocal monosomic method. The most striking effect on variation in seed dormancy was associated with chromosome 3A, and followed by group 4 chromosomes. These chromosomes of Zen increased dormancy compared with the respective CS homologues. Chromosomes 2D and 7D of Zen, and 6A of CS seemed to contribute smaller positive effects on dormancy. Chromosomes 2A of CS and Zen, as well as 3B, were equally effective in enhancing dormancy. The chromosome 3 A factors were independent of the grain-colour gene R-A1 because Zen was found to carry the white-grained R-A1a allele, which was identical to that of CS, and there was no difference in dormancy between the reciprocal F1 seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Recently, there has been a resurgence of interest in the interactions between oral conditions and a number of prevalent systemic diseases. The morbidity and mortality of the dependent elderly that result from aspiration pneumonia have been recognized as a major geriatric health problem. The purpose of this study was to gain more information on the microflora of plaque on dentures and to assess the existence of oral infectious pathogens potentially causing the respiratory disease in the dependent elderly.Subjects and Methods: The denture bacterial flora of 50 dependent elderly were examined to identify microorganisms by the culture method.Results: 18 species of microorganisms were detected in denture plaque in this study. A variety of pathogens with the potential to cause respiratory infection pathogens colonized on the dentures of dependent elderly.Conclusion: The results of the present study revealed that bacteria that commonly cause respiratory infection colonized on the dentures of dependent elderly, suggesting that denture plaque may function as a reservoir of potential respiratory pathogens to facilitate colonization on the oropharynx. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five lateral excursions on both left and right sides of 20 healthy subjects were recorded by Gnatho-hexagraph® , which was an opto-electronic system with six degrees of freedom. The incisor point, the working condylar point (WCP) and the balancing condylar point (BCP) were analysed. When the incisor point moved 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 mm on its path, the incisor point and corresponding condylar points were analysed. The linear distances from the intercuspal position (ICP) to each analysed point at each analysed position were calculated as Linear distance. The distance between five lateral excursions in x , y , z , space coordinates at each analysed position of three analysed points were calculated as D x, y, z, s . To evaluate the stability of lateral excursions, the Index S was defined as the equation (S =D /Linear distance * 100) and calculated. From the result of Index S , the WCP showed significantly less stability than the other two analysed points (P < 0·05). The incisor point showed best stability, especially in upper–lower direction. The BCP also showed good stability. Index S revealed the characteristic movement in x , y , z , space coordinates at each analysed point and it showed clearly the stability of lateral excursions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although silicon substrates for semiconductor devices do not contain any dislocations initially, the thin-film stresses sometimes produce dislocations during fabricating processes. Since the dislocations degrade electrical characteristics, it is important to estimate the critical stress for dislocation generation in order to maintain the integrity and reliability of the device. Therefore, we have developed a method that uses a ball-press test for evaluating the critical stress for dislocation generation. The critical stress is calculated from the critical press load for dislocation generation. We used this test method to determine the temperature dependence of the critical stress, and found that the change of the critical stress with temperature is not so large when compared with that of the reference tensile test data. This is because, since the tensile specimen contains some dislocations or initial damage, the tensile test data probably includes the influence of the movement of these dislocations. Furthermore, the effect of ion implantation was examined and this makes clear that the critical stress of implanted specimen is decreased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to (1) determine the standard value of maximum bite force and to (2) compare the maximum bite force of the elderly between healthy and frail subjects. Subjects included 349 healthy elderly individuals (149 males, 200 females) and 24 frail elderly individuals (seven males, 17 females) ranging from 65 to 74 years of age. Maximum bite force was evaluated using a Dental Prescale system™. The maximum bite force of the healthy subjects was significantly higher than that of the frail subjects in both males (P=0·020) and females (P=0·015). However, no significant difference was observed in the number of present teeth between the healthy and frail subjects. Median of maximum bite force in healthy males was 4080 N, and that of the healthy females was 2435 N. These results suggest that the frail elderly have latent bite force problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study statistically evaluates the relationship between chewing ability and quality of life (QOL) in elderly Japanese residents. We used a subjective evaluation and a mastication score determined by the food intake status to evaluate chewing ability. The PGC morale scale was used to evaluate the QOL level. The mastication score was significantly related to the QOL level in the subject group (P<0·05). The relationship between the subjective evaluation of chewing ability and the score on the PGC morale scale showed a similar tendency. In the section of the PGC morale scale that assesses agitation, attitude towards own aging, and lonely dissatisfaction, chewing ability was correlated with attitude toward own aging in particular (P<0·05). These results have suggested that the chewing ability is closely related to the QOL of the elderly residing in a rural community in Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIn the present study we applied the Zung self-rating depression scale (SDS) to 19 renal failure patients who were introduced to haemodialysis in the Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital, Nagoya, Japan. The patients were divided into two groups: the emergent introduction (EI) group, who underwent unanticipated and sudden introduction to haemodialysis, and the ordinary introduction (OI) group, who experienced a more systematic introduction to haemodialysis following recommendation by medical specialists. The patients’ Zung SDS responses were collected twice, just before and 2 weeks after haemodialysis introduction. The total SDS score of the EI group was significantly higher than that of the OI group, both before and after haemodialysis introduction. The total SDS scores for the EI and OI groups were significantly reduced after haemodialysis introduction. The SDS scores for the EI group were significantly higher in the mood of depression and cognitive symptoms categories, both before and after haemodyalysis introduction. Before introduction, SDS scores of the EI group were significantly higher in the categories of motor and vegetative symptoms. The SDS scores for vegetative symptoms in the EI group significantly decreased after introduction to haemodialysis. These results suggest that haemodialytic excretion of uremic toxins helps to reduce SDS scores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reports on the administration of leptospiral lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice that results in massive surface marker changes in the lymphocytes of the spleen. Relation of changes to the large number of cells undergoing apoptosis; Effects induced by tumor necrosis factor-alpha.

The present study was conducted In order to determine the statistical relationship between chewing activity and activities of daily living (ADL) in the elderly. Subjects which took part were 79 elderly individuals (37 males, 42 females) ranging in age from 65 to 74 years. Based on questionnaires regarding diet, a mastication score was determined to evaluate chewing activity in each subject, This score was scaled from 0 to 100%. AOL levels were determined using two indices: the guidelines of the Ministry of Health and Welfare of Japan and the Tokyo Metropolitan institute of Gerontology (TMIG) index. The TMIG index is a multidimensional 13-item index of competence in which scores range from 0 to 13 points. According to the guidelines of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the independence level of each subject was evaluated as independent, home-bound, or bedridden. These independence levels showed a significant correlation with the mastication score (P < 0.01). The mastication score also significantly correlated with the TMIG index, showing a Spearman coefficient of correlation of 0.63 in males (P < 0.01 and 0.71 in females (P < 0.01). These results suggest that chewing activity is related to ADL levels in elderly subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To identify homoeologous group-3 chromosomes that carry genes for vernalization, day-length responses, and earliness per se, a series of aneuploid lines (mono- somics and tetrasomics) and chromosome-substitution lines in 'Chinese Spring' (CS) were surveyed under different vernalization and day-length regimes in controlled environments. The results indicated that genes on all three chromosomes of group 3 can have striking effects on ear-emergence time, The replacement of CS 38 by its homologues in 'Lutescens 62' and 'Cheyenne' produced an increased Insensitivity to vernalization, while 3B homologues from 'Ceska Presivka' gave CS a remarkable sensitivity to vernalization. This provided evidence for multiple allelism at a new Vrn locus on chromosome 3B. A negative association between gene dosage and day-length response was found an CS 3D which was thought to carry a gene for promoting insensitivity to day- length The behaviour of CS monosonic 3A and CS (Timstein 3A), in reducing numbers of days to heading independently of environmental stimuli, suggested the presence of earliness per se genes on this chromosome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study used the human monocytic tumor cell line U937 to examine whether Porphyromonas gingivalis fimbriae induce differentiation of monocyte/macrophage progenitors. When the progenitor cells were incubated with P. gingivalis fimbriaè, the incubation resulted in increased Fc rosette formation and increased CD11b production by the cells. The presence of a protein kinase C inhibitor, H7 or calphostin C, in the medium eliminated the stimulatory effects of P. gingivalis fimbriae on Fc rosette formation. Furthermore, CD11b expression was inhibited by calphostin C. In contrast, HA1004, an inhibitor of cyclic nucleotide-dependent protein kinase, had no effect on P. gingivalis fimbriae-induced Fc rosette formation or CD11b expression. These results demonstrate that P. gingivalis fimbriae are a potent inducer of the differentiation of the monocyte/macrophage tumor cell line U937, most probably via cyclic nucleotide-independent protein kinase C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]