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Wind tunnel experiments were conducted by installing wind-acceleration structures on both sides of a straight-bladed vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT) to improve the output performance of the turbine. In the case of Venturi-shape structures, a curved shape with a large outlet opening produced a higher power output than straight or brimmed Venturi shapes. More importantly, two simple flat plates installed upstream of the wind turbine achieved the highest power enhancement of 2.4 times the power of the bare wind turbine. From the analysis of the flow visualization results, the power enhancement was attributed to the increase in lift force on the blades in the upstream region due to the acceleration of the gap flow between the flat plates, and the decrease in drag force on the blades toward the upstream region due to stagnation of the flow behind the plates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective  Many external anatomical landmarks have been used for approximating deeper, intracranial structures. Herein, we evaluate the attachment of the longissimus capitis (LC) on the mastoid process as a landmark for the underlying sigmoid sinus. Methods  Adult cadavers underwent dissection of the posterior occiput with special attention to the attachment of the LC muscle. Once the periphery of the muscle's tendon of attachment was determined, a burr hole was made in this area and evaluated internally for its relationship to the sigmoid sinus. Results  From an intracranial view, burr holes on all sides were over the sigmoid sinus and just slightly lateral to the center of the sinus. The distance from the midline to the medial border of the insertion of the LC had a mean of 63.0 ± 7.2 mm. The width of the tendon of insertion of the LC on the mastoid process had a mean of 17.6 ± 5.7 mm. The length of the tendon insertion of the LC had a mean of 14.7 ± 4.7 mm. The distance from the inferior border of the insertion of the LC to the tip of the mastoid process had a mean of 6.2 ± 4.5 mm. Conclusion  To our knowledge, use of the attachment site of the LC on the mastoid process as an external landmark for the underlying sigmoid sinus has not previously been reported. Based on our cadaveric findings, the sigmoid sinus is centered under the attachment of the LC regardless of the width of its tendon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective  Many external anatomical landmarks have been used for approximating deeper, intracranial structures. Herein, we evaluate the attachment of the longissimus capitis (LC) on the mastoid process as a landmark for the underlying sigmoid sinus. Methods  Adult cadavers underwent dissection of the posterior occiput with special attention to the attachment of the LC muscle. Once the periphery of the muscle's tendon of attachment was determined, a burr hole was made in this area and evaluated internally for its relationship to the sigmoid sinus. Results  From an intracranial view, burr holes on all sides were over the sigmoid sinus and just slightly lateral to the center of the sinus. The distance from the midline to the medial border of the insertion of the LC had a mean of 63.0 ± 7.2 mm. The width of the tendon of insertion of the LC on the mastoid process had a mean of 17.6 ± 5.7 mm. The length of the tendon insertion of the LC had a mean of 14.7 ± 4.7 mm. The distance from the inferior border of the insertion of the LC to the tip of the mastoid process had a mean of 6.2 ± 4.5 mm. Conclusion  To our knowledge, use of the attachment site of the LC on the mastoid process as an external landmark for the underlying sigmoid sinus has not previously been reported. Based on our cadaveric findings, the sigmoid sinus is centered under the attachment of the LC regardless of the width of its tendon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolites in biofluids can serve as biomarkers for diagnosing diseases and monitoring body conditions. Among the available biofluids, interstitial fluid (ISF) in the skin has garnered considerable attention owing to its advantages, which include inability to clot, easy access to the skin, and possibility of incorporating wearable devices. However, the scientific understanding of skin ISF composition is limited. In this study, we aimed to compare metabolites between skin dialysate containing metabolites from the skin ISF and venous blood (plasma) samples, both collected under resting states. We collected forearm skin dialysate using intradermal microdialysis alongside venous blood (plasma) samples from 12 healthy young adults. We analyzed these samples using capillary electrophoresis–fourier transform mass spectrometry–based metabolomics (CE–FTMS). Significant positive correlations were observed in 39 metabolites between the skin dialysate and plasma, including creatine (a mitochondrial disease biomarker), 1-methyladenosine (an early detection of cancer biomarker), and trimethylamine N-oxide (a posterior predictor of heart failure biomarker). Based on the Human Metabolome Technologies database, we identified 12 metabolites unique to forearm skin dialysate including nucleic acids, benzoate acids, fatty acids, amino acids, ascorbic acid, 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylethyleneglycol (an Alzheimer's disease biomarker), and cysteic acid (an acute myocardial infarction biomarker). We show that some venous blood biomarkers may be predicted from skin dialysate or skin ISF, and that these fluids may serve as diagnostic and monitoring tools for health and clinical conditions. • Skin interstitial fluid offers non-clotting, easy access from the skin surface. • Identified 12 key metabolites in skin dialysate by using CE–FTMS–based metabolomics. • Skin dialysate positively correlates with plasma in 39 metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fractional nitric oxide (FeNO) is an index of eosinophilic airway inflammation. However, the effect of acute resistance exercise on FeNO is not completely known, in non-asthmatics. In this study, we aimed to assess the effects of acute resistance exercise on FeNO levels in non-asthmatics. Ten participants completed both exercise and control sessions. The resistance exercise routine consisted of three sets of 10 repetitions, each at 75 % of the one-repetition maximum, including vertical chest press, lateral pull-down, leg press, leg extension, and abdominal exercises. Additionally, FeNO levels and respiratory impedance were measured, and blood samples were collected from each participant at baseline, immediately after exercise (post), and 30 min after exercise (post 30). At baseline, post, and post 30, the FeNO levels did not significantly differ between the exercise and control sessions (17.1 ± 4.7 vs. 18.5 ± 3.8 vs. 16.9 ± 3.8 ppb, respectively) and exercise sessions (16.6 ± 3.4 vs. 19.3 ± 7.6 vs. 18.3 ± 5.6 ppb, respectively). Therefore, acute resistance exercise lasting approximately 30 min did not exert an impact on FeNO levels. • The effects of resistance exercise on FeNO levels in non-asthmatic individuals were investigated. • Participants completed exercise and control sessions with no significant differences in FeNO levels observed between the two. • Resistance exercise did not affect FeNO levels in non-asthmatics. This research adds to our understanding of FeNO responses during exercise in non-asthmatic individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic remodeling in cardiomyocytes is deeply associated with the pathogenesis of heart failure (HF). Glutaminolysis is an anaplerotic pathway that incorporates α-ketoglutarate (αKG) derived from glutamine into the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. It is well known that cancer cells depend on glutamine for their increased energy demand and proliferation; however, the physiological roles of glutamine metabolism in failing hearts remain unclear. To investigate the regulatory mechanisms and biological effects of glutamine metabolism in oxidative stress-induced failing myocardium. The intracellular levels of glutamine, glutamate, and αKG were significantly decreased by H 2 O 2 stimulation in rat neonatal cardiomyocytes (RNCMs). To better understand the metabolic flux in failing myocardium, we performed a stable isotope tracing study and found that glutaminolysis was upregulated in RNCMs under oxidative stress. Consistent with this, the enzymatic activity of glutaminase (Gls), which converts glutamine to glutamate, was augmented in RNCMs treated with H 2 O 2. These findings suggest that glutamine anaplerosis is enhanced in cardiomyocytes under oxidative stress to compensate for the reduction of αKG. Furthermore, the inhibition of Gls reduced cardiac cell viability, ATP production, and glutathione (GSH) synthesis in RNCMs with H 2 O 2 stimulation. Finally, we evaluated the effects of αKG on failing myocardium and observed that dimethyl α-ketoglutarate (DMKG) suppressed oxidative stress-induced cell death likely due to the enhancement of intracellular ATP and GSH levels. Our study demonstrates that under oxidative stress, glutaminolysis is upregulated to compensate for the loss of αKG and its replenishment into the TCA cycle, thereby exerting cardioprotective effects by maintaining ATP and GSH levels. Modulation of glutamine metabolism in failing hearts might provide a new therapeutic strategy for HF. Image 1 • Glutaminolysis is upregulated in cardiomyocytes under oxidative stress. • Cardiac glutamine anaplerosis contributes to increased ATP and GSH synthesis. • αKG maintains ATP and GSH levels in cardiomyocytes under oxidative stress. • Cardiac glutaminolysis improves cell viability under oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A solar updraft tower is one of the wind power generation plants which utilizes solar energy. The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether the tower was also able to utilize crosswind energy. Wind tunnel experiments and numerical simulations were conducted simulating the crosswind. The results showed that suctioned updraft speed in the tower was proportional to the crosswind speed, and its conversion rate depended on the tower configuration. A diffuser-shaped tower with a vortex generator achieved to produce the updraft whose speed exceeded the crosswind speed. It was due to the low pressure created by the vortex atop the tower and to the diffuser effect. The crosswind utilization enables the simple power generation device to generate electricity during the night, and the hybrid utilization of renewable energies contributes to the increasing wind energy market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a case of aggressive adult granulosa cell tumor (AGCT) of the ovary. On presentation, the tumor was localized in the right ovary; a total abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy and partial omentectomy were performed. While some areas of the tumor represented typical AGCT, other areas showed enlarged and hyperchromatic nuclei with numerous mitoses (>10/high‐power field) with marked necrosis. The results of immunohistochemical analysis were compatible with AGCT, except that, in the necrotic portion, p53 was strongly positive, and the Ki‐67 index was high. Four months after laparotomy, recurrent tumors developed in the bones, liver, lungs and dura mater. The patient responded well to chemotherapy consisting of five cycles of paclitaxel and carboplatin, but later, the tumors rapidly proliferated, and the patient died of disease 11 months after laparotomy. FOXL2 examination demonstrated that both portions of the primary tumor did not have a point mutation (402C→G) specific to AGCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the role of beta‐human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) level and its change prior to methotrexate (MTX) treatment as predictors of treatment success and to access the posttreatment observation period for ectopic tubal pregnancy. Methods: Clinical data of 41 females treated with MTX for tubal pregnancies were reviewed and analyzed retrospectively. Results: Among 41 patients, 34 achieved complete resolution without surgery. No statistically significant difference was observed in the presence of hemorrhagic ascites, serum progesterone levels, or diameters of adnexal mass between the MTX success and failure groups. Serum HCG levels on the day of MTX administration (day 1) were significantly lower in the MTX success group. Moreover, % HCG change per day, which represents the increment ratio of HCG prior to MTX treatment, was significantly lower in the MTX success group. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves demonstrated that the treatment success was predicted by % HCG change per day less than +12.6% per day with a sensitivity of 87% and a specificity of 71%. The duration from treatment to complete recovery was strongly correlated with day 1 HCG levels. Conclusions: Pretreatment HCG change is a significant predictor of therapeutic success of MTX treatment, and the treatment period may be predicted from initial HCG levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concentrations of hydroperoxides (H 2 O 2 and MHP), O 3 , SO 2 and NO X * over Imizu City, Toyama Prefecture, Japan were measured during summers using a helicopter. The concentrations of hydroperoxides were analyzed by an HPLC system within 5–10 min after the sampling. The H 2 O 2 concentration was lowest at the surface, and the highest concentration was detected at altitudes of 6000 and 8000 ft. The MHP was also higher in the high-altitude atmosphere. Significantly high concentrations of hydroperoxides were observed when air pollutants were transported from China. The concentration of H 2 O 2 was higher than that of SO 2 above 4000 ft where the potential capacity of SO 2 oxidation in the aqueous phase is large. A helicopter is useful for measuring of hydroperoxides in the high-altitude atmosphere using an HPLC system in a laboratory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A tortuous common carotid artery poses a high risk of injury during tracheotomy. Preoperative diagnosis is therefore important to avoid serious complications. We found four cases of tortuous common carotid artery during an anatomical dissection course for students. The first case was a 91-year-old woman who had bilateral tortuous common carotid arteries without arteriosclerosis. Case 2 was a 78-year-old woman who had bilateral tortuous common carotid arteries without arteriosclerosis. Case 3 was an 86-year-old woman who died from bladder cancer and who also had a right tortuous common carotid artery without arteriosclerosis. Case 4 was an 89-year-old woman who had bilateral tortuous common carotid arteries and a tortuous brachiocephalic artery with severe arteriosclerosis. Case 4 was also examined using computed tomography to evaluate the arteriosclerosis. Computed tomography revealed severe calcification of the vascular wall, which was confirmed in the aortic arch and origins of its branches. In all four cases, the tortuosity was located below the level of the thyroid gland. Based on prior study results indicating that fusion between the carotid sheath and visceral fascia was often evident at the level of the thyroid gland, we speculated that the major region in which tortuosity occurs is at the same level or inferior to the level of the thyroid gland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seismic isolation is widely used in several countries, and the number of seismically isolated buildings has increased rapidly in recent decades. Seismic isolation extends the natural period of a building to decrease the absolute acceleration and seismic force. As there is a trade-off between the absolute acceleration and displacement, a soft layer results in a large displacement for a large seismic wave, but the hard one causes the large absolute acceleration even for a small seismic wave. The restoring force of a Duffing spring is given by the third and first orders of the displacement. This spring has been applied to protect a building from large earthquake waves. However, the influence of the coefficient of the Duffing spring that determines the dynamic characteristics of the system has not been clarified. Thus, a used Duffing spring may not be appropriate for seismic resistance. Moreover, most studies are based on analytical methods, and the advantages of the Duffing isolation have not been verified in an actual system. To address these problems, this paper reveals the influence of the coefficient of the Duffing spring on structural responses to seismic waves. Moreover, this paper devised a way to implement a Duffing spring for seismic isolation and carried out experiments to verify the validity in actual systems. The experimental results presented that the Duffing spring was effective in protecting a building in actual systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the life of the physician and theologian Michael Servetus and to discuss his analysis of the pulmonary circulation. Writers have praised Servetus for his commitment to educating his colleagues about what he heralded as the truth, and criticized him for his perceived arrogance. Servetus made contributions to the fields of geography, astrology, theology, and medicine. This paper refers to the translation of a portion of Servetus' book Christianismi Restitutio by Charles D. O'Malley. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We developed a PCR-based method to detect and quantify viable Bifidobacterium bifidum BF-1 cells in human feces. This method (PMA-qPCR) uses propidium monoazide (PMA) to distinguish viable from dead cells and quantitative PCR using a BF-1-specific primer set designed from the results of randomly amplified polymorphic DNA analysis. During long-term culture (10 days), the number of viable BF-1 cells detected by counting the number of CFU on modified MRS agar, by measuring the ATP contents converted to CFU, and by using PMA-qPCR decreased from about 1010 to 106 cells/ml; in contrast, the total number of (viable and dead) BF-1 cells detected by counting 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindolee (DAPI)-stained cells and by using qPCR without PMA and reverse transcrip- tion-qPCR remained constant. The number of viable BF-1 cells in fecal samples detected by using PMA-qPCR was highly and significantly correlated with the number of viable BF-1 cells added to the fecal samples, within the range of 105.3 to 10.3 cells/g feces (wet weight) (r> 0.99, P < 0.001). After 12 healthy subjects ingested 1010.3 to 1011.0 CFU of BF-1 in a fermented milk product daily for 28 days, 104.5 ± standard deviation [SD]) BF-1 CFU/g was detected in fecal samples by using strain-specific selective agar; in contrast, 106.2 ± 0.4 viable BF-1 cells/g were detected by using PMA-qPCR, and a total of 1076 ± 0.7 BF-1 cells/g were detected by using qPCR without PMA. Thus, the number of viable BF-1 cells detected by PMA-qPCR was about 50 times higher (P < 0.01) than that de- tected by the culture-dependent method. We conclude that strain-specffic PMA-qPCR can be used to quickly and accurately evaluate viable BF-1 in feces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The history of surgical spina bifida repair has seen many successes and failures. Many early surgeons attempted treatment of open spina bifida defects before a clear understanding of the disease process or pathology had been discovered. Conclusions: The attempts, while often fruitless, served to better our understanding of the disease and represent stepping-stones to the treatment we successfully use today. The present paper reviews the history of the surgical treatment of myelomeningoceles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measurements of ultrafine particles (UFPs) with diameters smaller than 100 nm were made with a Scanning Mobility Particle Sizer on the roadside of the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine route on the western slope of Mt. Tateyama, Japan, in the summer and autumn of 2007 and 2008. The number concentrations of nanoparticles (NPs) with diameters smaller than 50 nm increased sharply in the morning. This increase agreed with that of the NO concentration, which is a good indicator of vehicle emissions. Although the peak concentration of NO was also detected in the late afternoon, the concentrations of NPs did not increase. The vehicle emission of UFPs may vary considerably with the driving conditions. The emission of NPs might have been accelerated under a high engine-load condition. The NP concentrations in October were much higher than those in August, although there were more buses in August than in October. The number size distribution in the morning was bimodal, with the first peak around 20-30 nm and the second one around 70-80 nm. The first peak became small during the daytime. The first peak disappeared, and a small second peak remained through midnight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Interphase chromosome organization and dynamics can be studied in living cells using fluorescent tagging techniques that exploit bacterial operator/repressor systems and auto-fluorescent proteins. A nuclearlocalized Repressor Protein-Fluorescent Protein (RP-FP) fusion protein binds to operator repeats integrated as transgene arrays at defined locations in the genome. Under a fluorescence microscope, the tagged sites appear as bright fluorescent dots in living cells. This technique has been used successfully in plants, but is often hampered by low expression of genes encoding RP-FP fusion proteins, perhaps owing to one or more gene silencing mechanisms that are prevalent in plant cells. Results: We used two approaches to overcome this problem. First, we tested mutations in four factors involved in different types of gene silencing and/or epigenetic modifications for their effects on nuclear fluorescence. Only mutations in DDM1, a chromatin remodelling ATPase involved in repeat-induced heterochromatin formation and DNA methylation, released silencing of the RP-FP fusion protein. This result suggested that the operator repeats can trigger silencing of the adjacent gene encoding the RP-FP fusion protein. In the second approach, we transformed the tagged lines with a second T-DNA encoding the RP-FP fusion protein but lacking operator repeats. This strategy avoided operator repeat-induced gene silencing and increased the number of interphase nuclei displaying fluorescent dots. In a further extension of the technique, we show that green fluorescent-tagged sites can be visualized on moving mitotic chromosomes stained with red fluorescent-labelled histone H2B. Conclusions: The results illustrate the propensity of operator repeat arrays to form heterochromatin that can silence the neighbouring gene encoding the RP-FP fusion protein. Supplying the RP-FP fusion protein in trans from a second T-DNA largely alleviates this problem. Depending on the promoter used to drive expression of the RP-FP fusion protein gene, the fluorescent tagged sites can be visualized at high frequency in different cell types. The ability to observe fluorescent dots on both interphase and mitotic chromosomes allows tagged sites to be tracked throughout the cell cycle. These improvements enhance the versatility of the fluorescent tagging technique for future studies of chromosome arrangement and dynamics in living plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sister chromatids are often arranged as incompletely aligned entities in interphase nuclei of Arabidopsis thaliana. The STRUCTURAL MAINTENANCE OF CHROMOSOMES (SMC) 5/6 complex, together with cohesin, is involved in double-strand break (DSB) repair by sister chromatid recombination in yeasts and mammals. Here, we analyzed the function of genes in Arabidopsis. The wild-type allele of SMC5 is essential for seed development. Each of the two SMC6 homologs Arabidopsis is required for efficient repair of DNA breakage via intermolecular homologous recombination in somatic cells. Alignment of sister chromatids is enhanced transiently after X-irradiation (and mitomycin C treatment) in wild-type nuclei. In the smc5/6 mutants, the x-ray-mediated increase in sister chromatid alignment is much lower and delayed. The reduced S phase-established cohesion caused by a knockout mutation in one of the α-kleisin genes, SYN1, also perturbed enhancement of sister chromatid alignment after irradiation, suggesting that the S phase--established cohesion is a prerequisite for correct DSB-dependent cohesion. The radiation-sensitive51 mutant, deficient in heteroduplex formation during DSB repair, showed wild-type frequencies of sister chromatid alignment after X-irradiation, implying that the irradiation-mediated increase in sister chromatid alignment is a prerequisite for, rather than a consequence of, DNA strand exchange between sister chromatids. Our results suggest that the SMC5/6 complex promotes sister chromatid cohesion after DNA breakage and facilitates homologous recombination between sister chromatids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chromosomal arrangement of different transgenic repeat arrays inserted at various chromosomal positions was tested by FISH in Arabidopsis 2C leaf and root nuclei. Large lacO (∼10 kb) but not tetO (4.8 kb) or small lacO (∼2 kb) arrays were, in general, more often spatially associated with heterochromatic chromocenters (CC) than flanking regions (that either overlap the array insert position or are between 5 and 163 kb apart from the insert site). Allelic and ectopic pairing frequencies of lacO arrays were significantly increased only in nuclei of lines with two large lacO arrays inserted at different positions on the same chromosome arm. Within the same lines, root nuclei showed a significantly lower increase of pairing frequencies at the insert position compared to leaf nuclei but still a higher frequency than in the wild-type situation. Thus, the frequencies of homologous pairing and association with heterochromatin of transgenic repeats may differ with the construct, the chromosomal insertion position, the cell type and with the number and repetitiveness of inserts. Strong CpG methylation is correlated with a high frequency of homologous pairing at large repeat array loci in somatic cells but has no impact on their association with CCs. These results show that single low-copy arrays apparently do not alter interphase chromatin architecture and are more suitable for chromatin tagging than multiple high copy arrays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Size-separated aerosol number concentrations and water-soluble constituents were measured in Toyama, the Hokuriku district, near the coast of the Japan Sea, during the spring and summer in 2003. The number concentrations of coarse particles were significantly high in April, which was due to Asian dust events called Kosa in Japanese. Particulate nssCa2+, which is mostly present in the coarse-mode particles, was significantly high in April. On the other hand, the concentrations of NH4 + and nssSO4 2−, which mainly exist as the accumulation-mode particles were not high in April. The mass-size distributions of water-soluble constituents were compared with the size-separated number concentrations of particles. Backward trajectory analysis was also employed to examine the transport process of the air mass in Toyama. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Measurements of fog and rain water chemistry at the summit of Mt. Fuji, the highest peak in Japan, as well as at Tarobo, the ESE slope of Mt. Fuji in September 2002. The pH of fog and rain water sampled at Mt. Fuji varied over a range of 4.0–6.8. Acidic fogs (pH<5.0) were observed at the summit when the air mass came from the industrial regions on the Asian continent. The ratio of [SO4 2−]/[NO3 −] in the fog water was lower at Tarobo than at the summit. High concentrations of Na+ and Cl− were determined in the rain water sampled at the summit, possibly because of the long-range transport of sea-salt particles raised by a typhoon through the middle troposphere. The vertical transport of sea-salt particles would influence the cloud microphysical properties in the middle troposphere. Significant loss of Mg2+ was seen in the rain water at the summit. The concentrations of peroxides in the fog and rain water were relatively large (10–105 μM). The potential capacity for SO2 oxidation seems to be strong from summer to early autumn at Mt. Fuji. The fog water peroxide concentrations displayed diurnal variability. The peroxide concentrations in the nighttime were significantly higher than those in the daytime. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Fluorescent chromatin tagging makes possible tracking of specific loci in vivo and in situ. Loci tagged by the lac operator ( lacO )/GFP-LacI /Nuclear Localization Signal (NLS) system show rapid motility and constrained chromatin dynamics in somatic nuclei of a transgenic line, designated EL702C, in Arabidopsis thaliana. The tagged loci associated with each other significantly more often than expected at random, due to homologous pairing of the lacO tandem repeat arrays. Furthermore, these arrays associated significantly more often than average euchromatic regions with heterochromatic chromocenters (CCs). We show now that the inserted lacO array in this transgenic line became strongly methylated at CG sites in the T3 generation, which can be reversed upon transfer into the mutant backgrounds of decrease in DNA methylation 1 ( ddm1) and methyltransferase 1 ( met1). Concomitantly, the tagged loci showed lower association frequencies as compared with the transgenics in wild-type background, which is correlated with a significant decrease in allelic and ectopic pairing of the lacO repeat arrays as visualized by fluorescence in situ hybridization. In contrast, the preferential association of the lacO arrays with heterochromatin, locus mobility in somatic nuclei and transcription of neighboring transgenes were not altered by reduced DNA methylation in ddm1 and met1 backgrounds. Our results show that repeat arrays can activate hypermethylation of the inserted locus that correlates with high frequencies of homologous pairing in somatic cells. In contrast, the preferential association of these inserted arrays with CCs in plant cells occurs through another mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

16S rRNA gene-targeted group-specific primers were designed and validated for specific detection and quantification of the Clostridium leptum subgroup and the Atopobium cluster. To monitor the predominant bacteria in human feces by real-time PCR, we used these specific primers together with four sets of groupspecific primers for the Clostridium coccoides group, the Bacteroides fragilis group, Bifidobacterium, and Prevotella developed in a previous study (T. Matsuki, K. Watanabe, J. Fujimoto, Y. Miyamoto, T. Takada, K. Matsumoto, H. Oyaizu, and R. Tanaka, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 68:5445-5451, 2002). Examination of DNA extracted from the feces of 46 healthy adults showed that the C. coccoides group was present in the greatest numbers (log10 10.3 ± 0.3 cells per g [wet weight] [average ± standard deviation]), followed by the C. leptum subgroup (log10 9.9 ± 0.7 cells per g [wet weight]), the B. fragilis group (log10 9.9 ± 0.3 cells per g [wet weight]), Bifidobacterium (log10 9.4 ± 0.7 cells per g [wet weight]), and the Atopobium cluster (log10 9.3 ± 0.7 cells per g [wet weight]). These five bacterial groups were detected in all 46 volunteers. Prevotella was found in only 46% of the subjects at a level of log10 9.7 ± 0.8 cells per g (wet weight). Examination of changes in the population and the composition of the intestinal flora for six healthy adults over an 8-month period revealed that the composition of the flora of each volunteer remained stable throughout the test period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly sensitive quantitative PCR detection method has been developed and applied to the distribution analysis of human intestinal bifidobacteria by combining real-time PCR with Bifidobacterium genus- and species-specific primers. Real-time PCR detection of serially diluted DNA extracted from cultured bifidobacteria was linear for cell counts ranging from 10[sup 6] to 10 cells per PCR assay. It was also found that the method was applicable to the detection of Bifidobacterium in feces when it was present at concentrations of > 10[sup 6] cells per g of feces. Concerning the distribution of Bifidobacterium species in intestinal flora, the Bifidobacterium adolescentis group, the Bifidobacterium catenulatum group, and Bifidobacterium longum were found to be the three predominant species by examination of DNA extracted from the feces of 46 healthy adults. We also examined changes in the population and composition of Bifidobacterium species in human intestinal flora of six healthy adults over an 8-month period. The results showed that the composition of bifidobacterial flora was basically stable throughout the test period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses the development of 16S rRNA-gene-targeted group-specific primers for the detection and identification of predominant bacteria in human feces. Specificity of primers; Bacterial counts; Identification of the isolates; 16S rDNA sequence analysis of unidentified isolates.

In order to analyze the predominant Bacteroides species in normal human feces, species-specific primer sets for Bacteroides eggerthii, B. fragilis, B. ovatus, B. thetaiotaomicron, B. uniformis and B. vulgatus were designed. Normal human feces were cultured on Bacteroides selective agar (neomycin brilliant green taurocolic acid (NBGT) agar plates). We identified the colonies with the aforementioned species-specific primers. B. vulgatus and B. ovatus were found to be predominant in all volunteers, and B. thetaiotaomicron and B. uniformis varied between volunteers. However, B. fragilis and B. eggerthii were not detected in any volunteers using this culture method. When we used the direct PCR method with extracted bacterial DNA from feces, B. vulgatus and B. ovatus were detected from all samples, and B. thetaiotaomicron, B. uniformis and B. fragilis from four or five out of six samples, but no B. eggerthii was detected. This is the first report that analyzes the predominant Bacteroides species in normal human intestine using a systematic molecular identification method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed a new wind turbine system that consists of a diffuser shroud with a broad-ring brim at the exit periphery and a wind turbine inside it. The shrouded wind turbine with a brimmed diffuser, which we called a "wind lens turbine" (WLT), has demonstrated power augmentation by a factor of about 2–5 compared with a bare wind turbine for a given turbine diameter and wind speed. The increase in power output depends on the diffuser shape and length and the brim height. However, a simple theory presented in this paper argues that only two performance coefficients are needed to predict the performance of WLT. The coefficients are the back pressure coefficient of the brim and the pressure recovery coefficient of the diffuser. We theoretically showed that the back pressure coefficient was particularly important for the performance of WLT. Finally, the simple theory was evaluated with experimental results. The results showed good agreement with each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid development of gene therapy technology in recent years, its abuse as a method of sports doping in athletics has become a concern. However, there is still room for improvement in gene-doping testing methods, and a robust animal model needs to be developed. Therefore, the purposes of this study were to establish a model of gene doping using recombinant adeno-associated virus vector-9, including the human erythropoietin gene (rAAV9-hEPO), and to establish a relevant testing method. First, it was attempted to establish the model using rAAV9-hEPO on mice. The results showed a significant increase in erythrocyte volume accompanied by an increase in spleen weight, confirming the validity of the model. Next, we attempted to detect proof of gene doping by targeting DNA and RNA. Direct proof of gene doping was detected using a TaqMan-qPCR assay with certain primers/probes. In addition, some indirect proof was identified in RNAs through the combination of a TB Green qPCR assay with RNA sequencing. Taken together, these results could provide the foundation for an effective test for gene doping in human athletes in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study explores the relationship between phase angle (PhA), an indicator of cellular health, and metabolic health parameters among junior sumo wrestlers in Japan. Given the demanding lifestyle and high‐energy diets of sumo wrestlers that predispose them to metabolic syndrome post‐retirement, this study focuses on a younger cohort. The primary aim is to evaluate if PhA could serve as an early indicator of metabolic health issues within this unique demographic. A total of 14 sumo wrestlers aged 9–17 years were assessed to determine the relationship between PhA and various metabolic markers, including glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), using a TANITA MC‐780A‐N body composition analyzer and standard blood tests. Bivariate regression analysis and Pearson's correlation revealed a negative relationship between PhA and HbA1c even after adjusting for age and weight (ß = −0.496, r2 = 0.776, r = −0.756, p = 0.004). The results indicate a significant negative relationship between PhA and HbA1c levels, suggesting that lower PhA values, which indicate poorer cellular integrity, are associated with higher HbA1c levels, signifying impaired glycemic control. These findings underscore the potential of PhA as a valuable biomarker for monitoring metabolic health in young sumo wrestlers, with implications for early intervention and management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the distribution of bifidobacterial species in human intestinal microflora. Use of 16S rRNA-gene-targeted species-specific primers in the examination; B. catenulatum group as the most common among the distribution; Demonstration of a rapid and accurate detection of bifidobacterial species in human feces.

A brimmed-diffuser augmented turbine (called a wind lens turbine: WLT) actively uses vortices around the brim to enhance its power output. However, the vortices are usually unstable and asymmetric. This study attempted to stabilize the vortices to enhance the power output of a WLT. Then, we investigated new approaches using vortex stabilization plates and polygonal brims in wind tunnel experiments and numerical simulations. Both approaches achieved a 1.5–3.8% increase in power output compared with a standard WLT. Our numerical simulations revealed a periodicity existing in a fluctuating vortex structure on the circular brim. Importantly, vortex stabilization plates and polygonal brims must be the same periodic scale to suppress the vortex fluctuation and stabilize the vortices effectively. In addition, a larger brim tended to enhance the stabilizing effects. We believe that this discovery provides an easy way to increase the power output of existing wind turbines. It is particularly important in light of advances in wind energy technology and the increasing wind energy market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind solar towers constitute a fairly new scheme for harvesting renewable energy from solar and wind energy sources. In such a tower, solar radiation is collected and hot air is enforced to go fast through the tower, a process called thermal updraft, which fuels a wind turbine to generate power. Using vortex generators at the top of the tower creates a pressure difference, which increases the thermal updraft. In this work, we describe the setup of a wind solar tower system established at Kyushu University in Japan. Then, we demonstrate how data was collected from this system in order to train regression models for thermal updraft prediction. The feature selection process was guided by sensitivity analysis. After that, several machine learning models were investigated and the most suitable model was selected based on quality and time metrics. The linear regression model was particularly examined in detail, and was shown to have a satisfactory high accuracy of thermal updraft prediction graphically and numerically with a coefficient of determination of R 2 = 0.981. We also evaluated a reduced prediction model based on the six most essential features, which could be a reduced model description for the WST. This reduced model showed little performance degradation (R 2 = 0.974), with significant reduction in the needed effort and resources, as well as data collection requirements. [Display omitted] • Wind solar tower: renewable energy technique that combines powers from solar & wind. • Machine learning methods gained research momentum because of their prediction capabilities. • The linear regression model was accurately sufficient in predicting thermal updraft. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sacral dorsal rami form the posterior sacrococcygeal plexus (PSCP), which has been scantly studied. This study's goal was to clarify the PSCP s detailed anatomy and discuss its clinical relevance. Ten sides of 5 fresh-frozen cadavers were dissected for this research. After the muscles covering the sacrum were removed, the PSCP was identified and traced under the operating microscope until the entire plexus was exposed. The contributions to this plexus and its relations to surrounding anatomic structures were recorded. The PSCP was found on all sides and was composed of a medial trunk (MT), communicating branches, and a lateral trunk. Each sacral dorsal ramus's MT formed a series of loops created by adjacent sacral dorsal rami placed between the transverse tubercles and the posterior sacral foramina. The MT, communicating branches, and lateral trunk demonstrated potential entrapment sites. To our knowledge, this is the first anatomic study that provides detailed images that indicate 3 potential sites where surrounding structures could entrap the PSCP. Knowledge of its detailed anatomy might help in better understanding low-back pain, targeting pain sources and guide spine surgeons for avoiding injury to these nerves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumors of the greater sciatic foramen remain difficult to treat. They often have both intrapelvic and extrapelvic components that may limit visualization and make safe resection of the tumor difficult. Therefore the goal of the present anatomic study was to quantitate how much additional surgical working space could be gained by transection of the sacrospinous and sacrotuberous ligaments. Sixteen sides from 9 fresh-frozen Caucasian cadaveric torsos underwent transgluteal dissection and exposure of the greater sciatic foramen and associated liagments. With the piriformis in place, the vertical and horizontal diameters of the greater sciatic foramen were measured. Next, the sacrotuberous and sacrospinous ligaments were cut at their ischial attachments. The vertical diameter of the now confluent greater and lesser sciatic foramina (V 2) was measured. The mean vertical diameter of the greater sciatic foramen (V 1) was 54.8 ± 9.7 mm. The horizontal diameter of the greater sciatic foramen had a mean of 44.3 ± 6.1 mm with a range of 30–52 mm. After transection of the sacrotuberous and sacrospinous ligaments, the vertical distance of the greater and lesser sciatic foramina (V 2) had a mean of 74.8 ± 6.8 mm with a range of 60.1–90 mm. The mean ratio of V 2 to V 1 was 1.40. The vertical length of the greater sciatic foramen increased, on average, 40% after resection of the sacrotuberous and sacrospinous ligaments. The results of this study support an alternative technique for resecting large intrapelvic tumors via a transgluteal approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumption of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum TWK10 (TWK10) has beneficial probiotic effects, improves exercise endurance performance, regulates body composition, and mitigates aging‐related problems in mice and humans. Here, we investigated the effects of heat‐killed TWK10 on exercise endurance performance, muscle weight and strength, fatigue, and body composition in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial. Thirty healthy males aged 20–40 years were assigned to the Control group or heat‐killed TWK10 group (TWK10‐HK) in a balanced order according to each individual's initial maximal oxygen uptake. After 6‐week administration, the exercise endurance time in the TWK10‐HK was significantly increased (p = 0.0028) compared with that in the Control group. The grip strength on the right and left hands of the subjects was significantly increased (p = 0.0002 and p = 0.0140, respectively) in the TWK10‐HK compared with that in the Control group. Administration of heat‐killed TWK10 resulted in a significant increase (p = 0.0275) in muscle weight. After 6‐week administration, serum lactate, and ammonia levels were significantly lower in the TWK10‐HK group than in the Control group during the exercise and recovery periods. These findings demonstrate that heat‐killed TWK10 has significant potential to be used as a postbiotic for humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperthermia increases intravascular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and is associated with greater hyperthermia‐induced cutaneous vasodilation. Hyperthermia may also increase skin interstitial fluid ATP thereby activating cutaneous vascular smooth muscle cells and sweat glands. We evaluated the hypothesis that whole‐body heating would increase skin interstitial fluid ATP, and this response would be associated with an increase in cutaneous vasodilation and sweating. Nineteen (8 females) young adults underwent whole‐body heating using a water‐perfusion suit to increase core temperature by ~1°C during which time cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC, ratio of laser‐Doppler blood flow to mean arterial pressure) and sweat rate (ventilated capsule technique) were measured at four forearm skin sites to minimize between‐site variations. Dialysate from the skin sites were collected via intradermal microdialysis. Heating increased serum ATP, CVC, and sweat rate (all p ≤ 0.031). However, heating did not modulate dialysate ATP (median, baseline vs. end‐heating: 2.38 vs. 2.70 nmol/ml) (p = 0.068), though the effect size was moderate (Cohen's d = 0.566). While the heating‐induced increase in CVC was not correlated with changes in serum ATP (r = 0.439, p = 0.060), we observed a negative correlation (rs = −0.555, p = 0.017) between dialysate ATP and CVC. We did not observe a significant correlation between the heating‐induced sweating and serum, dialysate, or sweat ATP (rs = 0.091 to −0.322, all p ≥ 0.222). Altogether, we showed that passive heating increases ATP in blood and possibly skin interstitial fluid, with the latter potentially blunting cutaneous vasodilation. However, ATP does not appear to modulate sweating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The middle cluneal nerves (MCNs) are stated to arise from the sacral dorsal rami of S1 to S3 and supply the gluteal skin, but their detailed anatomy is unclear and often variably depicted and described. Therefore, the goal of this study was to revisit the anatomy of the MCNs and provide a clearer picture of their morphology. Five fresh-frozen Caucasian cadavers (10 sides) (2 men and 3 women) were dissected for this study. The sacral dorsal rami from each posterior sacral foramen were identified and traced laterally to identify the MCNs. The contribution, pathway, and distribution of the MCNs were investigated. Each sacral dorsal ramus joined to form the posterior sacrococcygeal plexus. A total of 25 MCNs were identified. The MCNs were formed by the sacral dorsal rami of S1-2 in 48% (12/25), S1-3 in 4% (1/25), S1-4 in 20% (5/25), S2-3 in 8% (2/25), and S2-4 in 20% (5/25). The MCNs pierced the gluteus maximus by 2 different pathways and supplied the gluteal skin or the gluteus maximus muscle. We clarified the anatomy and variations of the MCNs and revisited its current nomenclature. Such knowledge might improve diagnoses and invasive procedure outcomes in patients with pathology in the region of the MCNs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The superficial anterior atlanto-occipital ligament (SAAOL) is a narrowband located anterior to the anterior atlanto-occipital membrane. Nearly forgotten, it has not been well described in older anatomical textbooks and is missing in the current anatomical literature. As all of the binding structures of the craniocervical junction (CCJ) are important in maintaining stability, this study aims to clarify the anatomy and potential function of the SAAOL. Materials and Methods: The CCJ from ten fresh-frozen cadavers was studied. These specimens were derived from three males and seven females, and the age at death ranged from 57 to 91 years (mean, 79.8 years). The length, width, and thickness of the SAAOL were measured. In five specimens, the force to failure was recorded. Results: The SAAOL was found between the anterior tubercle of the atlas and the occiput and located as central thick fibers in front of the anterior atlanto-occipital membrane in 9 (90%) specimens. In one specimen, the vertical band to the occipital bone did not attach to the anterior tubercle of the atlas, but extended to the anterior aspect of the axis. The mean length, width, and thickness of the SAAOL were 19.8, 6.2, and 0.6 mm, respectively. The force to failure for the ligament was 38.8 N. Conclusion: The SAAOL was a constant structure of the anterior atlanto-occipital joint. This ligament seems to be a secondary stabilizer of the CCJ by limiting the extension of CCJ. Knowledge of this ligament may help in further understanding of craniocervical stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curling is a target‐based team sport played in a cold environment. The type of stress curling players face during a curling match remains to be determined. In the present study, 16 Japanese curling players performed a practice curling match (six ends lasting 90 min), wherein the following variables were documented: core and skin temperatures, heart rate, thermal sensation and comfort, urine‐specific gravity, body fluid loss, salivary cortisol, α‐amylase activity, salivary secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA), and fractionated exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO, a respiratory stress marker). Pre‐match resting core temperature was 37.24 ± 0.31°C, which increased up to 37.73 ± 0.41°C during the match (p < 0.001). Facial skin temperatures decreased after the match (all p ≤ 0.015), whereas finger skin temperatures remained unchanged (p ≥ 0.375). Thermal discomfort increased following the match but thermal sensation remained unchanged. Following the match, players lost 0.29 ± 0.15 L body fluid (sweat, respiratory evaporation, and urine), which was nearly compensated by fluid ingestion of 0.22 ± 0.13 L (p = 0.119). Nevertheless, urine‐specific gravity increased from 1.021 ± 0.010 to 1.024 ± 0.008 after the match (p = 0.012), with 31% and 50% players being dehydrated at pre‐ and post‐match, respectively. Salivary cortisol decreased (p < 0.001) after the match without changes in salivary SIgA, α‐amylase activity, and FeNO (all p ≥ 0.113). Therefore, during a curling match, the core temperature and thermal discomfort increase, whereas the face skin temperature decreases. Additionally, players may undergo dehydration before the match, which could be exacerbated after the match. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of a dietary protein supplement containing enzymatically modified isoquercitrin (EMIQ) on plasma amino-acid levels in healthy people. A randomized double-blind cross-over trial (UMIN000044791) was conducted with a sample of nine healthy individuals. These participants ingested soy protein with or without 42 mg EMIQ for 7 days after performing mild exercise. Plasma amino-acid levels were measured before ingestion and at 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 180, and 240 min after ingestion on the last day. The concentrations of total amino acids at 0 and 120 min and easily oxidized amino acids at 120 min were significantly higher in the plasma of individuals who consumed 42 mg EMIQ. Oxidative stress levels were lower and plasma testosterone levels were higher in participants who ingested soy protein with 42 mg EMIQ than in those who did not. These results suggest that daily ingestion of soy protein with 42 mg EMIQ can be useful for effective protein absorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute dietary nitrate (NO 3 −) supplementation can increase [NO 3 −], but not nitrite ([NO 2 −]), in human skeletal muscle, though its effect on [NO 3 −] and [NO 2 −] in skin remains unknown. In an independent group design, 11 young adults ingested 140 mL of NO 3 −-rich beetroot juice (BR; 9.6 mmol NO 3 −), and 6 young adults ingested 140 mL of a NO 3 −-depleted placebo (PL). Skin dialysate, acquired through intradermal microdialysis, and venous blood samples were collected at baseline and every hour post-ingestion up to 4 h to assess dialysate and plasma [NO 3 −] and [NO 2 −]. The relative recovery rate of NO 3 − and NO 2 − through the microdialysis probe (73.1% and 62.8%), determined in a separate experiment, was used to estimate skin interstitial [NO 3 −] and [NO 2 −]. Baseline [NO 3 −] was lower, whereas baseline [NO 2 −] was higher in the skin interstitial fluid relative to plasma (both P < 0.001). Acute BR ingestion increased [NO 3 −] and [NO 2 −] in the skin interstitial fluid and plasma (all P < 0.001), with the magnitude being smaller in the skin interstitial fluid (e.g., 183 ± 54 vs. 491 ± 62 μM for Δ[NO 3 −] from baseline and 155 ± 190 vs. 217 ± 204 nM for Δ[NO 2 −] from baseline at 3 h post BR ingestion, both P ≤ 0.037). However, due to the aforementioned baseline differences, skin interstitial fluid [NO 2 −] post BR ingestion was higher, whereas [NO 3 −] was lower relative to plasma (all P < 0.001). These findings extend our understanding of NO 3 − and NO 2 − distribution at rest and indicate that acute BR supplementation increases [NO 3 −] and [NO 2 −] in human skin interstitial fluid. • [NO 3 −] and [NO 2 −] in skin interstitial fluid was assessed using microdialysis. • Basal [NO 3 −] is lower in skin interstitial fluid relative to plasma. • Basal [NO 2 −] is higher in skin interstitial fluid compared with plasma. • Dietary nitrate (NO 3 −) increases [NO 3 −] and [NO 2 −] in skin interstitial fluid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asia differs substantially among and within its regions populated by diverse ethnic groups, which maintain their own respective cultures and dietary habits. To address the diversity in their gut microbiota, we characterized the bacterial community in fecal samples obtained from 303 school-age children living in urban or rural regions in five countries spanning temperate and tropical areas of Asia. The microbiota profiled for the 303 subjects were classified into two enterotype-like clusters, each driven by Prevotella (P-type) or Bifidobacterium/Bacteroides (BB-type), respectively. Majority in China, Japan and Taiwan harbored BB-type, whereas those from Indonesia and Khon Kaen in Thailand mainly harbored P-type. The P-type microbiota was characterized by a more conserved bacterial community sharing a greater number of type-specific phylotypes. Predictive metagenomics suggests higher and lower activity of carbohydrate digestion and bile acid biosynthesis, respectively, in P-type subjects, reflecting their high intake of diets rich in resistant starch. Random-forest analysis classified their fecal species community as mirroring location of resident country, suggesting eco-geographical factors shaping gut microbiota. In particular, children living in Japan harbored a less diversified microbiota with high abundance of Bifidobacterium and less number of potentially pathogenic bacteria, which may reflect their living environment and unique diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improvement of synthesis of non-peripherally alkyl-substituted macrocycle molecules, 1,4,8,11,15,18,22,25-octaalkyltetrabenzotriazaporphyrins (CnTBTAPH2) has been investigated. In the reaction from 3,6-dialkyl phthalonitrile to CnTBTAPH2, the yield has been markedly improved by replacing a conventional Grignard reagent with methyllithium. The modified procedure using a stable solvent was significantly effective for the scale-up of the reaction system as well as the yield enhancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerebral blood flow increases more during water-based exercise than land-based exercise owing to the effects of end-tidal CO2 (PETCO2) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) changes due to water immersion. However, it is unclear whether oxygenated hemoglobin (oxy-Hb) concentrations in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) are increased more by water-based or land-based exercise. We hypothesized that oxy-Hb concentrations in the PFC are higher during water-based exercise than land-based exercise when the exercise intensity is matched. To test this hypothesis, 10 healthy participants (age: 24.2 ± 1.7 years; height: 1.75 ± 0.04 m; weight: 69.5 ± 5.2 kg) performed light- to moderate-intensity cycling exercise in water (water-based cycling (WC); chest-high water at 30 °C) and on land (LC). Stroke volume, cardio output, heart rate, MAP, respiratory rate, PETCO2, and oxy-Hb in the PFC were assessed during 15 min of exercise, with exercise intensity increased every 5 min. Both WC and LC significantly increased oxy-Hb concentrations in the PFC as exercise intensity was increased (intensity effect: p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in oxy-Hb concentrations during WC and LC in most prefrontal areas, although significant differences were found in areas corresponding to the left dorsolateral PFC (exercise effect: p < 0.001). Thus, WC and LC increase oxy-Hb concentrations in the PFC in a similar manner with increasing exercise intensity, but part of the PFC exhibits enhanced oxy-Hb levels during WC. The neural response of the PFC may differ during water-based and land-based exercise owing to differences in external information associated with water immersion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to test the hypothesis that changes in the dermal tissue dielectric constant (TDC) and biomechanical properties of the skin would be correlated with the indicators related to dehydration. Ten healthy adult men were enrolled in three trials: no fluid intake (DEH), ad libitum fluid intake (AL-HYD), and programmed fluid intake (P-HYD) after exercise in a randomised crossover design. The participants performed a pedalling exercise at 60% heart rate reserve until 2% body mass loss. At 120 min after exercise, an incremental exercise test was carried out. Aerobic capacity, body composition, TDC, biomechanical properties of the skin (pliability, viscoelasticity, and total recovery), and indicators related to dehydration in the serum and urine were measured before and 120 min after exercise. Higher values of the pliability and viscoelasticity, and lower value of the total recovery on the hand were demonstrated in the P-HYD trial compared to the DEH trial (all P < 0.05). Changes in the TDC were significantly correlated with changes in body mass, total body water, serum osmolarity, and hematocrit (all P < 0.05). Changes in the biomechanical properties of the hand were significantly correlated with changes in body mass, hematocrit, and urine specific gravity (all P < 0.05). The present study showed that the changes in skin characteristics correlated with the body water and dehydration-associated indicators in the serum and urine, thus suggesting that skin characteristics may be useful in the assessment of dehydration. Highlights This study was the first to investigate the effect of dehydration and rehydration on the TDC and biomechanical properties of the skin upon instrumental measure, and not manual testing. This study confirmed the decline in aerobic capacity by dehydration and immediate recovery with sufficient rehydration. Changes in the TDC and the biomechanical properties of the skin correlated with the body water and dehydration-associated indicators in the serum and urine. Skin characteristics may be useful in the assessment of dehydration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Many dental procedures are at risk of injuring the lingual nerve. We performed this study to better elucidate the microanatomy that exists between the ipsilateral lingual and hypoglossal nerves so that iatrogenic injury can be avoided. Methods: Adult human cadaveric tongues (ten sides) underwent Sihler's staining to identify the microanatomy between the lingual and hypoglossal nerves. Results: The lingual nerve entered the middle part of the anterior two-thirds of the tongue from its lateral side and divided into two to four thick branches. These branches were then disseminated to the anterior, middle, and posterior parts of the anterior two-thirds of the tongue via 7-14 thin nerve bundles as terminal branches. The hypoglossal nerve entered the tongue at the posterior border of its anterior two-thirds and traveled forward to the apex of the tongue on all sides. All specimens were found to have communicating branches between the lingual and hypoglossal nerves at its anterior, middle, and posterior thirds. Conclusions: Our results indicate that the ipsilateral lingual and hypoglossal nerves constantly have three connections on each side between them. This knowledge might aid the dentist in minimizing iatrogenic nerve injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of underwater exercise on respiratory function remains unclear when its metabolic rate is matched with exercise performed on land. Therefore, we compared the breathing responses and respiratory function during and after water (WC)‐ and land (LC)‐based cycling performed at the matched oxygen uptake (VO2). Twelve healthy men performed 15 min of incremental WC and LC on separate days. During WC, participants cycled continuously at 30, 45, and 60 rpm (stages 1, 2, and 3) for 5 min each. During LC, participants cycled at 60 rpm for 15 min while wattage was increased every 5 min and adjusted to match VO2 to the WC condition. Breathing patterns during cycling and spirometry data before and after cycling were collected. VO2 during WC and LC was similar. Respiratory rate (WC: 27 ± 3 vs. LC: 23 ± 4 bpm, p = 0.012) and inspiratory flow (WC: 1233 ± 173 vs. LC: 1133 ± 200 ml/s, p = 0.035) were higher and inspiratory time (WC: 1.0 ± 0.1 vs. LC: 1.2 ± 0.2 s, p = 0.025) was shorter at stage 3 during WC than LC. After WC, forced vital capacity (p = 0.010) significantly decreased while no change was observed after LC. These results suggest that at similar metabolic rates during WC and LC, breathing is slightly shallower during WC which may have chronic effects on respiratory muscle function after multiple bouts of aquatic cycling. Underwater exercise may be beneficial for respiratory muscle rehabilitation when performed on a chronic basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We anatomically investigated an approach in which the skin incision is made directly above the dorsal column of the acetabulum. • The area from the greater sciatic notch to the base of the ischial tuberosity could be exposed using this approach. • An 8-hole plate could be placed from the gluteal ridge to the base of the ischium through a 9.3 ± 0.7 cm skin incision. • This approach can be a useful minimally invasive approach for acetabular fractures. In this study, we investigated the area that can be addressed with an approach in which the skin incision is made directly above the dorsal column with Thiel cadaveric specimens. Six Thiel cadaveric specimens were prepared. A skin incision was made directly above the dorsal column. The accessible proximal end from the proximal part of the greater sciatic notch to the gluteal ridge and the accessible distal end of the ischium were marked with a flat chisel. A molded 8-hole reconstruction plate was placed from the base of the ischium toward the gluteal ridge and fixed with 3 screws proximally and 2 screws distally. The length of the skin incision and the distance from each reference point on the bone to the reachable markings were assessed after the muscles were removed. Mean skin incision length was 9.3 ± 0.7 (range, 8.0–10.0) cm. In 3 of 6 cases, proximal screws were inserted through different spaces between muscle fibers. In all cases, we were able to reach at least the greater sciatic notch, the gluteal ridge at the level of superior border of the acetabulum, and the base of the ischial tuberosity. In all cases, an 8-hole plate could be placed from the gluteal ridge to the base of the ischium. There were no superior gluteal artery or sciatic nerve injuries in any of the cases. We anatomically investigated the area that can be addressed with an approach in which the skin incision was made directly above the dorsal column. In all cases, we were able to access the areas needed to reduce the fracture and place the plates necessary to stabilize the fracture through a 9.3 ± 0.7 cm skin incision. This approach can be a useful minimally invasive posterior approach for acetabular fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to determine the contribution of the orbicularis oculi (OOc) to the zygomaticus major (Zmj) in connecting the orbital region to the corner of the mouth. The OOc and Zmj of 22 embalmed adult Korean cadavers were dissected in 44 hemifaces. The OOc fibers were traced to determine their contribution to the Zmj. Parts of the superficial bundle in the orbital region of the OOc extended directly or indirectly to the Zmj in 22.7% of the specimens. The anatomical contribution of the OOc to the Zmj was divided into three categories depending on whether the connection between them was direct or indirect: (1) superficial orbital OOc fibers extended directly to the Zmj in 6.8% of the specimens, (2) superficial orbital OOc fibers extended to the zygomaticus minor and their small portion joined to the upper fibers of the Zmj in 15.9% of the specimens, and (3) no connection was identified between the OOc and Zmj in 77.3% of the specimens. The results of this study provide further anatomical insight into the relationship between the OOc and zygomaticus muscle complex. This information could be helpful for elucidating the anatomy of smiling and treatment and surgery designs for balanced or ideal smiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]