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This population-based study aimed to evaluate the association between bowel habits from midlife and dementia. This was a cohort study using certification records for national long-term care insurance in Japan. Participants aged 50 to 79 years who reported bowel habits from eight districts within the Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective Study (JPHC Study) were followed from 2006 to 2016 for incident dementia. Hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated for men and women separately using Cox proportional hazards models accounting for various lifestyle factors and medical histories. Among 19,396 men and 22,859 women, 1889 men and 2685 women were diagnosed with dementia. In men, the multivariable-adjusted HRs compared with bowel movement frequency (BMF) of once/day were 1.00 (95% CI: 0.87–1.14) for twice/day or more, 1.38 (1.16–1.65) for 5–6 times/week, 1.46 (1.18–1.80) for 3–4 times/week, and 1.79 (1.34–2.39) for <3 times/week (P for trend <0.001). In women, the corresponding HRs were 1.14 (0.998–1.31), 1.03 (0.91–1.17), 1.16 (1.01–1.33), and 1.29 (1.08–1.55) (P for trend = 0.043). Harder stool was associated with higher risk (P for trend: 0.0030 for men and 0.024 for women), with adjusted HRs compared to normal stool of 1.30 (1.08–1.57) for hard stool and 2.18 (1.23–3.85) for very hard stool in men, and 1.15 (1.002–1.32) and 1.84 (1.29–2.63) in women. Lower BMF and harder stool were each associated with higher risk of dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Focal intestinal perforation (FIP) is a devastating complication of premature birth, and extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants are at highest risk. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and portal vein (PV) blood flow velocities to investigate the association between intestinal blood flow and FIP. In addition, the herbal formula Daikenchuto (TJ-100) is expected to improve intestinal blood flow disorders; therefore, we evaluated its effect. METHODS: We conducted a prospective cohort study of 15 ELBW infants from January 2020 to August 2021. Measured variables included birth weight, 5-minute Apgar score, time of oral feeding initiation, ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure (percent), diastolic and systolic blood pressure, SMA and PV blood flow velocity, and FIP onset data. Fifteen infants were divided into three groups: a non-surgery group (Group I; 6), a surgery group with FIP (Group II; 4), and a TJ-100 administration group (Group III; 5). The main outcome parameters included SMA and PV blood flow velocities with TJ-100. RESULTS: SMA and PV blood flow differed significantly for the SMA of Group I and the SMA and PV of Group III (P < 0.01, P = 0.01, and P = 0.04, respectively). There was a correlation between SMA and PV in Group III (P = 0.03). CONCLUSION: TJ-100 may increase SMA and PV blood flow and improve intestinal blood flow in ELBW infants at risk of FIP. Therefore, the effects of TJ-100 should undergo further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • We characterize two hybridogenous, sexual and allotetraploid Diphasiastrum spp. • D. wightianum is allotetraploid and originates from D. veitchii × D. multispicatum. • D. yueshanense is part of a hybrid complex of D. veitchii and an unknown parent. • Flow cytometry, cp + nc markers and MIG-seq reveal triploid and tetraploid taxa. • We present an evolutionary scheme to explain the complex speciation events. In the species groups related to Diphasiastrum multispicatum and D. veitchii , hybridization was investigated in samples from northern and southern Vietnam and the island of Taiwan, including available herbarium specimens from southeast Asia. The accessions were analyzed using flow cytometry (living material only), Sanger sequencing and multiplexed inter-simple sequence repeat genotyping by sequencing. We detected two cases of ancient hybridization involving different combinations of parental species; both led via subsequent duplication to tetraploid taxa. A cross D. multispicatum × D. veitchii from Malaysia represents D. wightianum , a tetraploid taxon according to reported DNA content measurements of dried material (genome formulas MM, VV and MMVV, respectively). The second case involves D. veitchii and an unknown diploid parent (genome formula XX). Three hybridogenous taxa (genome formulas VVX, VVXX, VVVX) were discernable by a combination of flow cytometry and molecular data. Taxon I (VVX, three clones found on Taiwan island) is apparently triploid. Taxon II represents another genetically diverse and sexual tetraploid species (VVXX) and can be assigned to D. yueshanense , described from Taiwan island but occurring as well in mainland China and Vietnam. Taxon III is as well most likely tetraploid (VVVX) and represented by at least one, more likely two, clones from Taiwan island. Taxa I and III are presumably asexual and new to science. Two independently inherited nuclear markers recombine only within, not between these hybrids, pointing towards reproductive isolation. We present an evolutionary scheme which explains the origin of the hybrids and the evolution of new and fully sexual species by hybridization and subsequent allopolyploidization in flat-branched clubmosses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Propagation characteristics of the zeroth-order symmetric (S[sub 0]) mode shear-horizontal (SH) wave in a cell structure containing a thermotropic liquid crystal layer with chiral smectic-C (SmC[sup *]), smectic-A (SmA), chiral nematic (N[sup *]) and isotropic (Iso) phase states, are examined. The SH wave propagation is numerically analyzed with consideration of the directional dependence of the viscosity and elastic constant of the SmA liquid crystal. Temperature dependencies of acoustic phase delay and propagation loss of the SH wave are observed. The critical behavior of the acoustic phase delay and the propagation loss of the SO mode SH wave in the vicinity of the N[sup *]-SmA phase transition temperature are explained by the existence of the elastic constant related to layer compression. The layer compression elasticity is predominant in the SmA phase, and is determined from the comparison of numerical analysis with experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nematic liquid-crystal director-orientation in the vicinity of the interface between a liquid-crystal layer and a glass substrate is evaluated in various orientations under an applied electric field, using shear horizontal (SH) wave propagation. The measured acoustic phase delay is related to numerical analysis of the propagation characteristics of the SH wave in a trilayer structure containing a nematic liquid-crystal layer (4-cyano-4′-pentylbiphenyl: 5CB) between two glass plates. This technique using SH wave propagation in a liquid-crystal cell is promising for evaluating the nematic liquid-crystal director angle in the vicinity of the interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antiresorptive agent‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw is a rare but significant complication in patients using antiresorptive agents such as bisphosphonates and denosumab. Although the disease is well recognized, and many studies have been performed on the management of this condition, the treatment of severe osteonecrosis is still a challenge. Most recent studies have shown an advantage of surgical treatment over conservative treatment for stage 2/3 patients, but there is no consensus on the appropriate surgical procedures for antiresorptive agent‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw. Furthermore, patients with severe systemic conditions may not be appropriate for extensive surgical treatment, and the treatment protocol for such patients has not been established. In this review, issues regarding the current surgical treatment for antiresorptive agent‐related osteonecrosis of the jaws are discussed, with an emphasis on the clinical aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the spatial distributions of 226 Ra, 228 Ra, 134 Cs, and 137 Cs concentrations (activities) in seawater off the western and southern Korean Peninsula in July 2014. Radium-228 (and 226 Ra) concentrations in water samples varied widely from 5 to 14 mBq/L (2–4 mBq/L), showing a negative correlation with salinity, particularly at the surface off the western Korean Peninsula. This indicates that the seawaters in this area are fundamentally comprised of 228 Ra-poor and high-saline Kuroshio Current water and 228 Ra-rich and low-saline water (e.g., continental shelf water), with various mixing ratios. Although Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP)-derived 134 Cs was below the detection limit (<0.08 mBq/L) in waters off the western Korean Peninsula, low level 134 Cs (0.1–0.2 mBq/L) was detected in waters off the southern Korean Peninsula accompanied by higher 137 Cs concentrations (1.6–1.9 mBq/L) relative to that off the western Korean Peninsula. Combined with the lower radium concentrations, the detection of 134 Cs is explained by mixing of FDNPP-derived radiocesium-contaminated Kuroshio Current water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the dispersion of Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP)-derived radiocesium in the Sea of Japan and western Pacific coastal region and determine the sources of radiocesium in these areas, we examined the temporal and spatial variations of 134 Cs and 137 Cs concentrations (activities) during 2011–2016 in seawaters around the western Japanese Archipelago, particularly in the Sea of Japan. In May 2013, the surface concentration of 134 Cs was ∼0.5 mBq/L (decay-corrected to March 11, 2011), and that of 137 Cs exceeded the pre-accident level in this study area, where the effects of radiocesium depositions just after the FDNPP accident disappeared in surface waters in October 2011. Subsequently, radiocesium concentrations gradually increased during 2013–2016 (∼0.5–1 mBq/L for 134 Cs), exhibiting approximately homogeneous distributions in each year. The temporal and spatial variations of 134 Cs and 137 Cs concentrations indicated that FDNPP-derived radiocesium around the western Japanese Archipelago, including the Sea of Japan, has been supported by the Kuroshio Current and its branch, Tsushima Warm Current, during 2013–2016. However, in the Sea of Japan, the penetration of 134 Cs was limited to depths of less than ∼200 m during three years following the re-delivery of FDNPP-derived radiocesium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Quaternary ammonium cationic surfactants (ACSs) and N-[3-alkyl(12,14)oxy-2-hydroxypropyl]- l-arginine hydrochloride (N-AOHPA) were used to emulsify silicone. The potential of the resulting emulsions in hair conditioning products was investigated. Methods The emulsions were prepared using a homogenizer and/or high-pressure homogenizer. ACSs and N-AOHPA were used as silicone emulsifiers. The stability of the emulsions was evaluated by measuring particle sizes, creaming fractions, polydispersity indexes and zeta potentials. Moreover, the N-AOHPA-stabilized emulsion was compared with the ACS-stabilized emulsion to evaluate the adsorption amount of silicone on healthy and bleached hair surfaces and the inhibitory effects on amino acid dissolution from bleached hair. The adsorption site of the N-AOHPA-stabilized emulsion was observed using a scanning electron microscope. Results For all surfactants, the silicone emulsions prepared using the high-pressure homogenizer were more stable than those prepared using the homogenizer. When N-AOHPA was used as the surfactant, the silicone emulsion was especially stable. Furthermore, the d50 value of the N-AOHPA-stabilized emulsion was smaller than that of the ACS-stabilized emulsion. The adsorption behaviour of the silicone droplets in the different emulsions varied depending on the nature of the surfactant and the preparation method. The amount of ACS-stabilized silicone adsorbed on healthy hair was higher than that adsorbed on bleached hair, especially when the emulsion was prepared using the homogenizer. In contrast, the amount of N-AOHPA-stabilized silicone adsorbed on bleached hair was high, and no differences were observed between the N-AOHPA-stabilized emulsions prepared using the homogenizer and high-pressure homogenizer. The emulsified droplets, especially the N-AOHPA-stabilized droplets prepared using the high-pressure homogenizer, prevented amino acid dissolution from bleached hair. It was concluded that the silicone droplet adsorption site affected the dissolution process because the small N-AOHPA-stabilized droplets adsorbed at cuticle edges. Conclusion This study shows that N-AOHPA has good potential for use as an emulsifier in products used for improving the condition of damaged hair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the association between serum total cholesterol ( TC) and suicide using a large general population cohort with long follow-up times. Method Analyses included 16 341 men and 28 905 women aged 40-69 from the Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective Study followed from 1990 to 2012. TC levels were defined per clinical guidelines: low (<4.66 mmol/l [180 mg/dl]), normal (4.66-5.70 mmol/l [180-220 mg/dl]), and high (≥5.70 mmol/l [220 mg/dl]). Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to determine hazard ratios ( HR) and confidence intervals ( CI) for suicide according to TC level. Mean follow-up time was 19 years for men and 20 years for women. Results There were 185 suicides (men: 107; women: 78) during follow-up. Compared to women with normal TC, women with high TC had a significantly increased risk of suicide ( HR = 1.90, 95% CI, 1.13-3.19). Incremental increases (0.26 mmol/l [10 mg/dl]) of low-density lipoprotein ( HR = 1.11, 95% CI, 1.02-1.21) and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ( HR = 1.09, 95% CI, 1.01-1.18) were also associated with increased risk of suicide in women. There was no association between TC levels, or lipid fractions, and suicide in men. Conclusion High TC levels may be associated with an increased risk of suicide in women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Extremely soft polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) rubber was prepared. • The sorption amount of hexane at 195 K at 23 Pa was 3500 times higher than at 298 K. • This rubber captured up to 776 mg/g of hexane at saturated vapor pressure (298 K). • The sorption enthalpy (30 kJ/mol) was small and appropriate for the regeneration. • This sorbent was insensitive to humidity, unlike conventional sorbents such as AC. A series of soft polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) rubbers was obtained by diluting reaction mixtures of a PDMS macromer and a crosslinker with an organic solvent. The degree of swelling of the softest rubber was 600 wt% when immersed in pure hexane at room temperature. From the Flory–Huggins equations, the free energy change for hexane sorption per 1 g rubber was calculated to be −7.4 J g−1 and the entropy contribution of the polymer chains was 1.6 J g−1 larger than that of the conventional PDMS rubber. The loosely crosslinked PDMS rubber could sorb 776 mg g−1 of hexane at 298 K and 606 mg g−1 at 195 K. The latter value was 4.4 times larger than that of the conventional PDMS rubber. At a low pressure of 23 Pa, the PDMS rubber sorbed a 3500-fold greater amount of hexane at 195 K, as compared with the value at 298 K. This high sorption amount is because the expansion energy of such soft PDMS rubber is small. The sorption heat of the loosely crosslinked PDMS rubber was 30.3 kJ mol−1 when calculated from the Clausius–Clapeyron equation. This value is substantially smaller than that of commercial activated carbon (75 kJ mol−1). Unlike activated carbon, PDMS rubber is insensitive to water and selectively sorbs VOCs even under a saturated humidity. Because of the large swelling potential and small sorption/desorption heat, the loosely crosslinked PDMS rubber will be an indispensable sorbent for the recovery of flammable gasses such as alkane and iso -alkane VOCs in the chemical and oil and gas industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigates the magnetic properties of multilayer films composed of FeRhIr, silver and iron multilayers. Experimental details; Results and discussion.

Objective This study aimed to validate the Japanese version of the LupusPRO questionnaire for use with systemic lupus erythematosus patients. Methods Participants were 205 lupus patients recruited from three rheumatology centers in Japan. Demographic data were collected and quality of life was assessed using the LupusPRO and the Short Form Health Survey-12. Disease activity was evaluated by physicians using the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Activity Index. Some participants completed questionnaires 10–14 days after the first survey. Internal consistency reliability, test-retest reliability, content validity and convergent validity were examined, and confirmatory factor analysis was performed. Results Participants’ mean age was 47.8 ± 13.6 years. Older participants scored lower on physical quality of life and higher on coping than younger participants. The LupusPRO showed satisfactory test-retest reliability (n = 111). Test-retest reliability was lower for the mental and social aspects of quality of life, indicating fluctuations in quality of life during the two-week interval. Internal consistency reliability was good and convergent validity with the corresponding domains of the Short Form Health Survey-12 was satisfactory. Confirmatory factor analysis showed a good model fit. Conclusion The Japanese LupusPRO is a reliable and valid measure to evaluate treatment interventions for systemic lupus erythematosus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated lateral profiles of 228 Ra (half-life; 5.75 years) activity and 228 Ra/ 226 Ra (1600 years) activity ratio using 241 surface water samples collected in/around the Sea of Japan and the East China Sea (ECS) during June–October of 2009–2014. In the ECS, the 228 Ra/ 226 Ra ratio in the surface waters exhibited markedly wide variation (<0.05–3.5) in June, predominantly reflecting the mixing between the 228 Ra-rich continental shelf water and the 228 Ra-depleted Kuroshio Current water. In July, the surface waters of the central Sea of Japan (135–138°E) became separated into three currents: the Offshore Branch of the Tsushima Warm Current (OBTWC) ( 228 Ra/ 226 Ra =0.7–1.2) at 39–41°N, the Coastal Branch of the TWC (CBTWC) (~0.7) on the southern side, and sub-Arctic Current (~0.7) on the northern side. From the central to northeastern Sea of Japan, the 228 Ra/ 226 Ra ratio at the surface (0.8–1.0) was within a range between that of the CBTWC and OBTWC. The fraction of continental shelf water in the CBTWC, OBTWC, and in their combined current was estimated to be 11–16%, ~8%, and 10–11%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sleep problems are common in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This study aimed to examine the following: (1) predictors of sleep quality and (2) fluctuations in sleep quality in patients with SLE. Patients with SLE were recruited from three rheumatology centers in Japan. We collected demographic and clinical data and data on sleep quality as measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Medical Outcome Study Short Form-12, and the Lupus Patient Reported Outcome Tool (LupusPRO). Fluctuations in sleep quality were examined by administering the PSQI a second time after a 2-week interval. We used multiple linear regression analysis to predict sleep quality. Of 205 patients who completed the survey, 62.9% showed poor sleep quality. The largest fluctuation in sleep quality was for 'waking in the middle of the night or early morning.' 'LupusPRO pain/vitality' was a major predictor of poor sleep. The other significant predictors were mostly LupusPRO subscales and clinical variables and SF-12 subscales were mostly non-predictive. The majority of the participants had poor sleep quality. A lupus-specific QoL scale is important for understanding poor sleep quality in SLE patients. Symptom management appeared to play a key role in improving sleep quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed a simple method for 40 K removal by acidified water leaching combined with ammonium phosphomolybdate coprecipitation, for estimating low levels of radiocesium in Japanese flounder. 40 K removal from ashed samples was approximately 98%, with the radiocesium yield of ~98%. The treatment reduced the γ-spectral baseline to ~1/5 at ground and ~3/100 at underground levels (1.04 and 0.11 cph/keV, respectively). Faint signal of 134 Cs, which is embedded in the Compton continuum of 40 K in an untreated sample, was detected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined lateral distributions of 134 Cs, 137 Cs, 226 Ra, and 228 Ra in the surface seawaters around the Kuril Islands and the Kamchatka Peninsula in the northwestern North Pacific Ocean during June 2014. The sampling area included three water current areas, the Oyashio Current, the current from the Okhotsk Sea, and the coastal current along the east Kamchatka Peninsula. 226 Ra and 228 Ra distributions differed along the three currents. Low levels of 134 Cs were detected in the surface waters of the Oyashio Current (0.09–0.35 mBq/L), but it was <∼0.1 mBq/L at the surface along the other two currents. This indicates that the distribution of Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP)-derived radiocesium in surface waters off the Kamchatka and along the Kuril Islands is predominantly governed by the Oyashio current system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Many users in Japan of skin brightening/lightening cosmetics containing rhododendrol ( RD) have developed leucoderma. Leucoderma appears on skin areas repeatedly treated with RD-containing cosmetics. RD-induced leucoderma ( RDIL) presents different degrees of well-defined hypopigmentation. It is crucial to determine the degree of hypopigmentation to differentiate RDIL from vitiligo vulgaris ( VV). Objectives To quantitatively evaluate hypopigmentation of RDIL lesions and the recovery of pigmentation, and to compare the hypopigmentation with VV and normal skin. Materials and methods Sixteen cases of RDIL, nine cases of VV and 15 healthy controls were examined using a novel multispectral camera ( MSC) that can simultaneously obtain the reflection intensity at 10-nm wavelength intervals from 400 to 760 nm of the photographed area. ∆Absorbance was calculated by subtracting the log of reflection intensity of the target area from that of a white reflection standard. Results Most RDIL lesions showed lower ∆Absorbance than healthy skin and higher ∆Absorbance than VV lesions between 400 and 550 nm. Statistical comparison of the maximum ∆Absorbance from 420 to 460 nm (Max∆Absorbance) for VV, RDIL and control skin showed that the Max∆Absorbance of RDIL was significantly higher than that of VV and lower than that of control skin. The comparison of ∆Absorbance of the same sites in RDIL lesions between the initial visit and 6 months later showed significant improvement after 6 months. Conclusions These studies demonstrated quantitative changes in RDIL and its recovery phase and suggested the utility of a MSC in obtaining objective colour information of skin disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lateral and temporal profiles for concentrations of Cs and Cs were examined in marine sediments obtained from coastal and offshore areas on the Sea of Japan-side of central Honshu. In 2013, concentrations declined sharply from an estuarine (30 Bq/kg-dry for Cs) to offshore areas. In the offshore Sado Basin, the concentration of short-lived Cs, which was not detected (<0.3 Bq/kg-dry) in 2010, was 1-15 Bq/kg-dry in 2011-2013. Discharged riverine materials affected by radiocesium derived from the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant have been delivered to this offshore basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We analyzed a total of 25 seawater samples collected from 2 columns within the Sea of Japan for Ra (half life 1,600 years) and Ra (half life 5.75 years) by employing low-background γ-spectrometry. The Ra activity level in the deep proper water (DPW) (~0.13 mBq/L) was found to be higher than that of deep waters from the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans (<0.1 mBq/L), indicating its continuous delivery to the DPW by active water circulation before complete radioactive decay. Using a steady state box model of Ra and Ra, the turn-over time in the DPW was calculated to be ~80 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the delivery mechanism of radiocesium emitted from the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP), we examined vertical profiles of 134 Cs, 137 Cs, and 228 Ra concentrations and the 228 Ra/ 226 Ra ratio in the water columns off the Sanriku Coast in the northwestern Pacific Ocean, in July 2012, along with their surface lateral variations in July 2009. Radiocesium concentrations exhibited maximum peaks (3–5 mBq/L for 134 Cs) at depths of 100–200 m, accompanied by high 228 Ra concentrations (0.6–0.8 mBq/L) in comparison with shallower depths (∼0.4 mBq/L). Taking the circulation patterns of currents in the area into account, it was inferred that radioactive depositions were supplied to the 228 Ra-rich Tsugaru Warm Current Water (TWCW) in the offshore area of the Sanriku Coast following the FDNPP accident, and that after the spring of 2011, this water (∼26.5 σ θ ) was covered by lower density surface water, which helped intrude its way to depths of 100–200 m. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents three case study of lupus nephritis (LN) with serum interleukin-32y detection including case of a 44-year old female, 30-year old female, and 45-year old female. It states that the three cases had histories of LN and one active disease. It mentions that the IL-32y contribute to the pathogenesis of renal diseases in LN patients.

An arrangement of a large-eddy simulation (LES) is described that facilitates a spatially developing thermally stratified atmospheric boundary layer (ABL). When the inflow and outflow boundary conditions are specified, the LES of stably stratified ABL turns out to be challenging because spurious reflections of waves at the boundary accumulate inside the domain. To tackle this problem, a fringe method with an auxiliary LES running concurrently is applied to enforce upstream/downstream boundary conditions. An artificial forcing term is applied within a fringe region located at the beginning of the main LES domain in order to ensure statistically stationary inflow boundary conditions. The auxiliary LES, which is horizontally homogeneous in a doubly periodic domain, is used to determine the inflow condition of the main LES domain. The present scheme is used to provide an Eulerian perspective of the stratocumulus to shallow cumulus cloud (Sc-Cu) transition, one of the key cloud regimes over the subtropical ocean. In this study, the transition is triggered by increasing the sea surface temperature (SST) and the LES runs until a statistically steady evolution of the Sc-Cu transition is achieved. The flow statistics are compared with those from a recycling-type method and it is found that the fringe method is more suitable for the current applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurposeTo evaluate the images created in a model eye during simulated cataract surgery.Patients and methodsThis study was conducted as a laboratory investigation and interventional case series. An artificial opaque lens, a clear intraocular lens (IOL), or an irrigation/aspiration (I/A) tip was inserted into the 'anterior chamber' of a model eye with the frosted posterior surface corresponding to the retina. Video images were recorded of the posterior surface of the model eye from the rear during simulated cataract surgery. The video clips were shown to 20 patients before cataract surgery, and the similarity of their visual perceptions to these images was evaluated postoperatively.ResultsThe images of the moving lens fragments and I/A tip and the insertion of the IOL were seen from the rear. The image through the opaque lens and the IOL without moving objects was the light of the surgical microscope from the rear. However, when the microscope light was turned off after IOL insertion, the images of the microscope and operating room were observed by the room illumination from the rear. Seventy percent of the patients answered that the visual perceptions of moving lens fragments were similar to the video clips and 55% reported similarity with the IOL insertion. Eighty percent of the patients recommended that patients watch the video clip before their scheduled cataract surgery.ConclusionsThe patients' visual perceptions during cataract surgery can be reproduced in the model eye. Watching the video images preoperatively may help relax the patients during surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: The prevention and early detection of post-transplantation rejection and infection are key clinical points to achieve long-term survival after lung transplantation. Although surveillance bronchoscopy (SB) is performed in many transplantation centers, it is still controversial because of its undefined clinical significance and its possible complications. We evaluated the clinical utility of SB after cadaveric lung transplantation in Japan, where bilateral transplantation is officially limited to patients medically requiring bilateral grafts. Patients and Methods: Twenty-eight patients who underwent cadaveric lung transplantation followed by SB were retrospectively analyzed with reference to the results of bronchoscopy. SB is routinely performed at 1, 2, 3, 6, and 12 months after lung transplantation and annually thereafter. Clinically indicated bronchoscopy (CIB) is considered in patients with suspected rejection or airway infection, and for follow-up examination after treatment for acute rejection. Results: There were 206 bronchoscopies, including 189 SBs and 17 CIBs, performed in 28 patients who underwent cadaveric lung transplantation between 2000 and 2013 at Osaka University Hospital. Among SBs, 92 (49%) showed positive results of transbronchial lung biopsy (TBLB) or bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), and intervention was applied following 34 SBs (18%). Among CIBs, 8 (47%) showed positive results of TBLB or BAL, with intervention performed in 3 patients (18%). A2-3 and B2R findings according to the revised International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) rejection score and airway infection/colonization were frequently observed within a year following lung transplantation. Cytomegalovirus infection was found in 7 SBs (6%) by TBLB only within 2 months after transplantation. Regarding complications, moderate bleeding occurred in 21 (11%), pneumothorax in 2 (1%), prolonged hypoxemia in 1 (0.5%), and pneumonia in 1 (0.5%) among the 189 SBs. Conclusion: SB frequently detects rejection and airway infection or colonization with minimum complications, especially within 12 months after cadaveric lung transplantation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence rate increased rapidly in Japan between the 1950s and 1990s. We examined the association between rice intake and CRC risk in comparison with bread, noodles and cereal among Japanese adults enrolled in the Japan Public Health Center-based prospective Study.Methods: A total of 73,501 Japanese men and women were followed-up from 1995 to 1999 until the end of 2008 for an average of 11 years. During 801,937 person-years of follow-up, we identified 1276 incident cases of CRC. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) of CRC for rice, noodle, bread and cereal intake were calculated by Cox proportional hazards model.Results: Overall, no significant association was observed for the highest quartile of rice intake compared with the lowest and the risk of CRC and its subsites in men (HR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.56-1.07) and women (HR, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.71-1.68). However, a non-significant inverse trend was observed between rice intake and rectal cancer in men. No clear patterns of association were observed in bread, noodle and cereal intake.Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the consumption of rice does not have a substantial impact on the risk of CRC in the Japanese population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence rate increased rapidly in Japan between the 1950s and 1990s. We examined the association between rice intake and CRC risk in comparison with bread, noodles and cereal among Japanese adults enrolled in the Japan Public Health Center-based prospective Study.Methods:A total of 73 501 Japanese men and women were followed-up from 1995 to 1999 until the end of 2008 for an average of 11 years. During 801 937 person-years of follow-up, we identified 1276 incident cases of CRC. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) of CRC for rice, noodle, bread and cereal intake were calculated by Cox proportional hazards model.Results:Overall, no significant association was observed for the highest quartile of rice intake compared with the lowest and the risk of CRC and its subsites in men (HR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.56-1.07) and women (HR, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.71-1.68). However, a non-significant inverse trend was observed between rice intake and rectal cancer in men. No clear patterns of association were observed in bread, noodle and cereal intake.Conclusion:Our findings suggest that the consumption of rice does not have a substantial impact on the risk of CRC in the Japanese population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] GABAA receptors in adrenal medullary cells consisted of α3, β, and γ2 subunits. [•] The expression of α3 subunits depended on glucocorticoid activity. [•] Allopregnanolone, a neuroactive steroid, enhanced GABAA receptor activity. [•] Allopregnanolone decreased an EC50 for GABA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The adverse-pressure gradient turbulent boundary layer at high Re is studied. [•] Wall-model LES works well for nonequilibrium turbulent boundary layer. [•] Relationship of skin-friction to Re and Clauser pressure parameter is explored. [•] Self-similarity is observed in the velocity statistics over a wide range of Re. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: To assess the migration patterns of radiocesium emitted from the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP), we analyzed 228Ra/226Ra ratios and 7Be concentrations and compared them with 134Cs and 137Cs concentrations in seawater samples collected within the Sea of Japan before and after the FDNPP accident (i.e., during the period 2007–2012) using low-background γ-spectrometry. The 228Ra/226Ra ratios in surface waters exhibited lateral and seasonal variations, reflecting the flow patterns of surface water. This indicates the transport patterns of the FDNPP-derived radiocesium by surface water. Cosmogenic 7Be (half-life: 53.3 d) exhibited markedly high concentrations (5–10 mBq/L) at depths shallower than 50 m, with concentrations decreasing steeply (0.2–2 mBq/L) at depths of 50–250 m. The distribution of 7Be concentrations suggests that the downward delivery of the FDNPP-derived radiocesium to below 50 m depth was negligible for a few months prior to its removal from the Sea of Japan. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

PurposeTo evaluate the functional outcomes of patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) who underwent intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) treatment, compared with photodynamic therapy (PDT), after at least 2 years.MethodsWe retrospectively studied all the treatment-naïve patients with PCV who were scheduled to undergo IVR or PDT between August 2005 and June 2010. All the patients who had a 2-year or longer follow-up period were included in the study. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in the two groups was compared before treatment and at 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months after the initial treatment. The regression of the polyps was also assessed using indocyanine green angiography.ResultsA total of 77 patients were included in this study. Thirty-three eyes were treated with IVR, and 44 eyes were treated with PDT. Although no significant differences between the two groups were observed at baseline or at 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment, a significantly better BCVA was seen in the IVR group, compared with the PDT group, at 18 and 24 months after treatment (P=0.035 and P=0.021, respectively). No significant difference in the rate of polyp regression was observed between the two groups (P=0.092).ConclusionIVR was well tolerated and maintained or improved the vision of patients with PCV, compared with PDT, as evaluated at 2-year follow-up examinations. PDT for the treatment of PCV might result in unfavorable outcomes, with no superiority to achieving the involution of polyps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In lotic systems, the hyporheic zone has been suggested as a potential refuge for aquatic organisms during disturbances (hyporheic refuge hypothesis). However, the supporting evidence is unclear, especially regarding the survival of hyporheic refugees and their contribution to the recovery of post-disturbance populations. Moreover, few studies have focused on the importance of the hyporheic refuge for aquatic vertebrates such as fish. In this study, we present evidence that the hyporheic zone acts as a refuge for a small benthic fish ( Cobitis shikokuensis) following surface drying in an intermittent river. We examined its survival during and recolonization after dry periods by direct hyporheic sampling and mark-and-recapture surveys. When the streambed dried, hyporheic sampling was conducted 58 times across 33 locations in the intermittent reach and 31 individuals of C. shikokuensis were captured from extracted hyporheic water. Mark-and-recapture surveys revealed that recolonizers after re-wetting included C. shikokuensis individuals that had survived dry periods in the hyporheic refuge. The condition factor of C. shikokuensis significantly declined after dry periods, suggesting that most recolonizers suffered from physiological stress, probably within the hyporheic refuge. These results clearly support the long-debated, hyporheic refuge hypothesis, and provide a striking example of the critical role of the hyporheic zone in population maintenance of lotic organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the constraints on achieving positive social and environmental outcomes from community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) in Ethiopia, a rarely researched country. A comparative case study on successful and failed CBNRM in a pioneering and influential CBNRM project revealed the important determinant for disparity in outcome to be whether the existing collective decision-making arrangements on use rights and benefit-sharing support the members to whom those benefits are salient. Institutionalising CBNRM in government forest policy and improving the capacity to implement it are recommended to improve current conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A total of 37 seawater samples were collected at 10 sites along the coastline of the Northern Sanriku and Tsugaru Strait, 250–450 km north of the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant in April–December 2009 and May–June 2011, and analyzed for 134Cs and 137Cs activities using low-background γ-spectrometry. The 134Cs and 137Cs activities measured in these samples in May 2011 were found to be 2–3 mBq/L and 2.5–4 mBq/L, respectively. By June, these values had decreased by 25–45%/month and 5–30%/month, respectively. These results can be plausibly explained by surface infusion of these isotopes into the sea by atmospheric transport from Fukushima and their subsequent reduction by water migration to off-shore and deeper regions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A total of 82 surface seawater samples was collected in the Japan Sea and the southwestern Okhotsk Sea before and after the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP) accident. Analysis of 134Cs and 137Cs concentrations using low-background γ-spectrometry revealed that the 137Cs concentration of the samples collected in June 2011 was 1.5–2.8mBq/L, which is approximately 1–2 times higher than the pre-accident 137Cs level, while the 134Cs concentration was less than detectable to 1mBq/L. In addition to 134Cs being clearly detected (∼1mBq/L), 137Cs concentration in water samples from the northeastern Japan Sea (2–2.8mBq/L) was also higher than that from the coast in the southwestern Japan Sea (∼1.5mBq/L). These higher concentrations in the northeastern Japan Sea could be ascribed to the atmospheric transport of nuclides from the FDNPP as aerosols and subsequent transport and dilution after delivery to the sea surface. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Eugenol, which is contained in several plants including clove, has been widely used as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory drug in the dental clinic. Eugenol also has anesthetic effects and produces sedation and the reduction of convulsion threshold. These benefits have been partly attributed to the effects of eugenol on neural tissues, such as inhibition of voltage-gated ion channels. As expected from the fact that eugenol is a vanilloid compound, this drug activates transient receptor potential (TRP) V1 channels in the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Although eugenol affects synaptic transmission in the central nervous system (CNS), this has not yet been fully examined. We investigated how eugenol affects spontaneous glutamatergic excitatory transmission in substantia gelatinosa (SG; lamina II of Rexed) neurons of adult rat spinal cord slices by use of the blind whole-cell patch-clamp technique. Bath-applied eugenol reversibly enhanced spontaneous excitatory transmission and produced an outward current at −70 mV in SG neurons. The former action was due to a large increase in the frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic current (sEPSC) with a small increase in the amplitude. These actions of eugenol were seen by its repeated application and resistant to a voltage-gated Na+ channel blocker tetrodotoxin. The effect of eugenol on sEPSC frequency was concentration-dependent with an EC50 value of 3.8 mM and unaffected by a TRPV1 antagonist capsazepine, whereas inhibited by a nonspecific TRP antagonist ruthenium red and a TRPA1 antagonist HC-030031. On the other hand, the eugenol-induced outward current was not affected by these TRP antagonists. It is concluded that eugenol activates TRPA1 channels in the SG, leading to an increase in the spontaneous release of l-glutamate to SG neurons, and that eugenol also produces a membrane hyperpolarization that is not mediated by TRP channels. Eugenol is suggested to activate different types of TRP channel between the PNS and CNS. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The outcomes of organ transplantation are determined by graft rejection, the mechanisms of which are some of the most important areas of study in the transplantation field. The main cause of rejection is the immunologic response of the recipient toward the transplanted organ. The immunologic responses are regulated by T-cell subsets, especially helper T-cells, which have been characterized as TH1 or TH2 cells according to their profiles of cytokines production. A unique subset of recently identified lymphocytes, the regulatory T cells (Tregs), seem to play a role in tolerance. The recently identified TH17 cells are a subset of effector-helper lymphocytes that specifically secrete interleukin (IL) 17. Interestingly, TH17 and Treg both develop from naïve T cells on stimulation by transforming growth factor β. The difference is only the existence of IL-6, a proinflammatory cytokine. TH17 clears pathogens that are not adequately handled by TH1 and TH2 elements, as well as contributing to autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and inflammatory diseases. Autoimmune diseases are caused by reactions to self-antigens. TH17 (or IL-17) and IL-6 are also thought to be involved in rejection after organ transplantation. We examined the contributions of TH17 and IL-6 in bronchiolitis obliterans (BO), the histologic finding in chronic rejection of lung transplantations. Earlier studies have reported that TH17 and IL-6 contribute not only to chronic rejection of lung transplantations, but also to the rejection of other solid organs, e.g., heart, liver, and kidney. In addition, prospective avenues of research on TH17 and IL-6 in transplantation have emerged from the perspectives of recent studies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: To contribute to evidence-based policy decision making for national cancer control, we conducted a systematic assessment to estimate the current burden of cancer attributable to known preventable risk factors in Japan in 2005. Methods: We first estimated the population attributable fractions (PAFs) of each cancer attributable to known risk factors from relative risks derived primarily from Japanese pooled analyses and large-scale cohort studies and the prevalence of exposure in the period around 1990. Using nationwide vital statistics records and incidence estimates, we then estimated the attributable cancer incidence and mortality in 2005. Results: In 2005, ∼55% of cancer among men was attributable to preventable risk factors in Japan. The corresponding figure was lower among women, but preventable risk factors still accounted for nearly 30% of cancer. In men, tobacco smoking had the highest PAF (30% for incidence and 35% for mortality, respectively) followed by infectious agents (23% and 23%). In women, in contrast, infectious agents had the highest PAF (18% and 19% for incidence and mortality, respectively) followed by tobacco smoking (6% and 8%). Conclusions: In Japan, tobacco smoking and infections are major causes of cancer. Further control of these factors will contribute to substantial reductions in cancer incidence and mortality in Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Oral Diseases (2012) 18, 206-212 Objectives: The effect of growth differentiation factor 5 and bone morphogenetic protein 2 on human periodontal ligament-derived cells was investigated with special reference to tendo/ligamentogenesis-related markers. Materials and Methods: Effects of each factor were analyzed by quantitative PCR for scleraxis and tenomodulin and by western blotting for scleraxis. After exposure to those factors, STRO-1-positive and STRO-1-negative fractions of human periodontal ligament tissues were isolated with an immunomagnetic cell sorting system, and the expression of scleraxis in each fraction was analyzed by western blotting. Non-separated crude cells were used as a control. Results: Growth differentiation factor 5 and bone morphogenetic protein 2 did not increase alkaline phosphatase activity in crude periodontal ligament-derived cells. Growth differentiation factor 5, but not bone morphogenetic protein 2, increased the expression of scleraxis in crude, STRO-1-positive and STRO-1-negative periodontal ligament-derived cells. The expression of scleraxis in STRO-1-positive periodontal ligament-derived cells was significantly less compared to that in crude P2 and STRO-1-negative periodontal ligament-derived cells. Conclusion: Growth differentiation factor 5 induced the expression of scleraxis and may enhance tendo/ligamentogenesis in human periodontal ligament-derived cells. The expression of scleraxis was higher in STRO-1-negative fraction, suggesting more differentiated state of the cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: For the treatment of chronic hepatitis C, a combination of pegylated interferon-α (PEG-IFNα) and ribavirin has been widely used as a standard of care. Enhancement of immune response against hepatitis C virus (HCV) is known to be involved in the efficacy of the combination therapy. Our aim was to elucidate whether or not the frequency or function of blood cells is related to the outcome of the therapy.Methods: Sixty-seven chronic hepatitis C patients with high viral load of HCV genotype 1 infection who underwent 48 weeks of PEG-IFNα2b and ribavirin therapy were examined. During the treatment, frequencies of myeloid or plasmacytoid dendritic cells, Th1, Th2 cells, NK cells, and regulatory T cells were phenotypically determined.Results: Among the patients enrolled, 29 showed a sustained virological response (SVR), 18 a transient response (TR) and 17 no response (NR). The clinical and immunological markers were compared between the SVR and non-SVR patients, including TR and NR. Based on clinical, histological, immunological parameters, and cumulative dosage of PEG-IFNα2b and ribavirin, multivariate analyses revealed that higher platelet counts and higher regulatory T cell frequency at week 12 are indicative of SVR. Even in patients who attained complete early virological response at week 12, multivariate analyses disclosed that higher platelet counts and higher plasmacytoid dendritic cell frequency are indicative of SVR.Conclusions: In PEG-IFNα and ribavirin combination therapy for chronic hepatitis C patients, the increments of regulatory T cells and plasmacytoid dendritic cell frequency are independently related to favorable virological response to the therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether 5 combined healthy lifestyle factors (not smoking, moderate drinking, eating minimum salt-preserved foods, being physically active, and having appropriate body mass index) are associated with reduced risk of cancer. METHODS: Participants were enrolled in the Japan Public Health Center Study and responded to the 5-year follow-up questionnaire covering lifestyle factors in 1995-1999 at ages 45-74 years. During follow up through December 31, 2006, 3451 and 2125 cases of cancer were newly identified in men and women, respectively. For men and women, a factor-dependent risk reduction was observed for healthy lifestyles and cancer development. Compared to 0-1 healthy lifestyle factors, the adjusted RRs and 95% CIs for adherence to 2, 3, 4, and 5 healthy factors were 0.86 (0.78-0.95), 0.72 (0.65-0.80), 0.61 (0.54-0.69), and 0.57 (0.45-0.72), respectively, for men (P for trend<0.0001) and 0.86 (0.53-1.40), 0.73 (0.46-1.16), 0.68 (0.42-1.08), and 0.63 (0.39-1.01), respectively, for women (P for trend=0.0003). Risk was reduced 14% and 9% by each one healthy lifestyle for men and women, respectively. Risk reduction was more pronounced among elderly women. CONCLUSION: These combined lifestyle factors have a considerable impact on preventing cancer.Copyright © 2012 by Elsevier Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The influence of graft site on the survival of canine follicles and oocytes after autografting was investigated. Hemi-ovaries were autografted to three locations (quadriceps femoris muscle fascia, kidney capsule, and gastrosplenic ligament), and grafted ovaries were recovered (under anesthesia) 28 to 31 d after transplantation. The grafted hemi-ovaries were bisected: one-quarter ovary was used for histological assessment and another quarter for evaluation of oocyte viability. As controls, the remaining fresh hemi-ovaries were used to assess the viability of follicles and oocytes in non-transplanted ovaries. Most follicles in the histological sections of the grafts were classified as primordial or primary follicles. Antral follicles were not observed in the grafts, irrespective of the graft site. The percentages of viable follicles in the sections from control ovaries, and the ovaries grafted to the kidney capsule, the quadriceps femoris muscle fascia, and the gastrosplenic ligament were 17.4, 22.9, 18.3, and 32.4%, respectively. A total of 12 oocytes was recovered from the 15 hemi-ovaries grafted in five bitches, of which five (41.7%) oocytes from the ovaries grafted to the quadriceps femoris muscle fascia and the kidney capsule were cultured for assessment of meiotic competence. Three oocytes were viable but remained in the germinal vesicle stage after 72 h of maturation culture. The quadriceps femoris muscle fascia might be useful for grafting like the kidney capsule, but improvement of follicle survival and meiotic competence of oocytes in the grafts is necessary. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We have developed a characterization method for two-dimensional imaging of critical current density in coated conductors (CCs) based on scanning Hall-probe microscopy (SHPM). The distributions of the magnetic field around a sample were measured for several different conditions of external magnetic fields, and then were converted to those of the sheet current density which flowed to shield the external magnetic field or to trap the penetrated magnetic field. As a result, it was found that the amplitude of the sheet current density corresponded to that of critical current density almost in all the area of the sample except for the region where current direction changed. This indicates that we could obtain an in-plane distribution of the critical current density with a spatial resolution of around 100μm in non-destructive manner by this method. We believe that this measurement will be a multifunctional and comprehensive characterization method for coated conductors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary The present study examined the association of denture quality and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with removable dentures. In a study of 171 consecutive patients with removable partial dentures or complete dentures (mean age: 68·0 ± 9·3 years) at a university-based prosthodontic clinic, dentists rated two aspects of denture quality (stability and aesthetics) using a 100-mm visual analog scale (VAS). HRQoL was evaluated using the mental and physical component summary (MCS and PCS) scores of the Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form 36-Item Health Survey (SF-36). Oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) was evaluated using the Oral Health Impact Profile-Japanese version (OHIP-J). The associations among denture quality, OHRQoL, and HRQoL were examined by linear regression models. Bivariable linear regression analyses revealed that denture stability was significantly associated with the SF-36 MCS [regression coefficient = 0·52 for a 10-unit increase in denture stability on a 0-100 VAS, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0·03-1·00, P = 0·04], but not with the PCS (0·11, 95% CI: −0·49 to 0·70). Denture aesthetics was not related to the PCS or the MCS (0·22, 95% CI: −0·44 to 0·88 or 0·07, 95%CI: −0·47 to 0·62). When OHIP-J was added to the regression model, this variable was substantially and significantly associated with the MCS and PCS summary scores; in addition, the regression coefficient for denture quality decreased in magnitude and was statistically nonsignificant in all analyses. The quality of removable dentures had a minimal effect on HRQoL in patients with removable dentures, and this association was mediated by OHRQoL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]