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We propose the use of a specially designed polyurethane foam with a plateau region in its mechanical characteristics—where stress remains nearly constant during deformation—between the electromyography (EMG) electrode and clothing to suppress motion artifacts in EMG measurement. Wearable EMG devices are receiving attention for monitoring muscle weakening due to aging. However, daily EMG measurement has been challenging due to motion artifacts caused by changes in the contact pressure between the bioelectrode and the skin. Therefore, this study aims to measure EMG signals in daily movement environments by controlling the contact pressure using polyurethane foam between the bioelectrode on the clothing and the skin. Through mechanical calculations and finite element method simulations of the polyurethane foam's effect, we clarified that the characteristics of the polyurethane foam significantly influence contact pressure control and that the contact pressure is adjustable through the polyurethane foam thickness. The optimization of the design successfully controlled the contact pressure between the bioelectrode and skin from 1.0 kPa to 2.0 kPa, effectively suppressing the motion artifact in EMG measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hand-gripping training is important for improving the fundamental functions of human physical activity. Bernstein's idea of "repetition without repetition" suggests that motor control function should be trained under changing states. The randomness level of load should be visualized for self-administered screening when repeating various training tasks under changing states. This study aims to develop a sensing methodology of random loads applied to both the agonist and antagonist skeletal muscles when performing physical tasks. We assumed that the time-variability and periodicity of the applied load appear in the time-series feature of muscle deformation data. In the experiment, 14 participants conducted the gripping tasks with a gripper, ball, balloon, Palm clenching, and paper. Crumpling pieces of paper (paper exercise) involves randomness because the resistance force of the paper changes depending on the shape and layers of the paper. Optical myography during gripping tasks was measured, and time-series features were analyzed. As a result, our system could detect the random movement of muscles during training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myosin IC, a single-headed member of the myosin I family, specifically interacts with anionic phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI[4,5]P2) in the cell membrane via the pleckstrin homology domain located in the myosin IC tail. Myosin IC is widely expressed and physically links the cell membrane to the actin cytoskeleton; it plays various roles in membrane-associated physiological processes, including establishing cellular chirality, lipid transportation, and mechanosensing. In this study, we evaluated the motility of full-length myosin IC of Drosophila melanogaster via the three-dimensional tracking of quantum dots bound to actin filaments that glided over a membrane-bound myosin IC-coated surface. The results revealed that myosin IC drove a left-handed rotational motion in the gliding actin filament around its longitudinal axis, indicating that myosin IC generated a torque perpendicular to the gliding direction of the actin filament. The quantification of the rotational motion of actin filaments on fluid membranes containing different PI(4,5)P2 concentrations revealed that the rotational pitch was longer at lower PI(4,5)P2 concentrations. These results suggest that the torque generated by membrane-bound myosin IC molecules can be modulated based on the phospholipid composition of the cell membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purposes of the present study were to confirm the presence of NRTN in the airways and to investigate the clinical and pathogenetic roles of NRTN in asthma.Methods: The NRTN levels in the induced sputum were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Relationships between NRTN and clinical characteristics, asthma control status, and airway inflammation were assessed.Results: Sixty-four asthmatic subjects were enrolled in the study. All asthmatic subjects had detectable sputum NRTN levels, with a mean (SD) level of 2.03 (1.29) ng/mL. The sputum NRTN levels had significant positive correlations with sputum eosinophil and exhaled nitric oxide levels and were significantly higher in the atopic subjects than in the non-atopic subjects. No significant difference in sputum NRTN levels were observed for asthma control status and asthma exacerbation. In sputum inflammatory analyses, sputum NRTN level was positively correlated with interleukin (IL)-5 and IL-13 levels, and negatively correlated with matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 level.Conclusion: It is plausible that sputum NRTN could serve as a new marker for Type 2 airway inflammation, implicating its role in the process of airway remodeling in asthma. Future studies should investigate the clinical relevance of sputum NRTN level in prospective analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) is considered to be an adjunct for asthma management, although its usefulness remains controversial. Therefore, it may be necessary for new approaches to use FeNO for asthma management. We evaluated whether diurnal variations of FeNO can predict response to asthma treatment. This pilot study consisted of 22 uncontrolled asthmatics and 16 healthy subjects. FeNO and peak expiratory flow (PEF) were measured by themselves twice daily at home for three weeks (asthmatics) or two weeks (healthy subjects), and daily mean and diurnal variations of FeNO and PEF levels were calculated. In uncontrolled asthmatics, treatment was intensified a week after study entry, and then control status was reevaluated after three to four weeks. Asthmatics were then divided into two groups; good or poor responders. Diurnal variations of FeNO levels, as well as daily mean FeNO and PEF levels, in uncontrolled asthmatics before intensive treatment were significantly higher than those in healthy subjects, regardless of treatment response (p < 0.01). Furthermore, in the good responders, diurnal variations of FeNO levels were significantly decreased in the 1st week (p < 0.05) of intensive treatment, whereas the daily mean FeNO levels significantly dropped in the 2nd week (p < 0.05). In the poor responders, no such changes were observed in FeNO levels. In terms of PEF, only the daily mean levels were significantly elevated after the initiation of intensive treatment, regardless of treatment response. Diurnal variations of FeNO may contribute to predicting early therapeutic response to asthma treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose urethane-foam-embedded silicon pressure sensors, including a stress-concentration packaging structure, for integration into a car seat to monitor the driver's cognitive state, posture, and driving behavior. The technical challenges of embedding silicon pressure sensors in urethane foam are low sensitivity due to stress dispersion of the urethane foam and non-linear sensor response caused by the non-uniform deformation of the foam. Thus, the proposed package structure includes a cover to concentrate the force applied over the urethane foam and frame to eliminate this non-linear stress because the outer edge of the cover receives large non-linear stress concentration caused by the geometric non-linearity of the uneven height of the sensor package and ground substrate. With this package structure, the pressure sensitivity of the sensors ranges from 0 to 10 kPa. The sensors also have high linearity with a root mean squared error of 0.049 N in the linear regression of the relationship between applied pressure and sensor output, and the optimal frame width is more than 2 mm. Finally, a prototype 3 × 3 sensor array included in the proposed package structure detects body movements, which will enable the development of sensor-integrated car seats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electronic textile (e-textile) devices require mechanically reliable packaging that can bear up to 30% stretch induced by textile crimp stretch, because the boundary between the rigid electronic components and the soft fabric circuit in the e-textile is prone to rupture due to mismatch of their mechanical properties. Here, we describe a thin stress-concentration-relocating interposer that can sustain a textile stretch of up to 36%, which is greater than the 16% stretch of conventional packaging. The stress-concentration-relocating interposer consists of thin soft thermoplastic polyurethane film with soft via holes and is inserted between the electronic components and fabric circuit in order to move the area of stress concentration from the wiring area of the fabric circuit to the film. A finite element method (FEM) simulation showed that when the fabric is stretched by 30%, the boundary between the electrical components and the insulation layer is subjected to 90% strain and 2.5 MPa stress, whereas, at 30% strain, the boundary between the devices and the wiring is subjected to only 1.5 MPa stress, indicating that the concentration of stress in the wiring is reduced. Furthermore, it is shown that an optimal interposer structure that can bear a 30% stretch needs insulating polyurethane film in excess of 100 μm thick. Our thin soft interposer structure will enable LEDs and MEMS sensors to withstand stretching in several types of fabric. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nocturnal asthma symptoms are a well-known feature of sleep disturbance. However, there are few reports on the association between sleep-related characteristics and asthma exacerbation. The aim of the current prospective observational study was to explore the factors while sleeping associated with future asthma exacerbation. Materials and Methods: At baseline, adult asthmatics underwent home sleep monitoring by a Watch-PAT instrument and then they were prospectively followed-up for the occurrence of exacerbations. The number of asthma exacerbation was observed over a period of one year, and multivariable analyses of the factors associated with asthma exacerbation were performed. Results: A total of 62 asthmatic subjects were enrolled (mean age 62.1 years), 59 of whom were finally included in the prospective observational study. Obstructive sleep apnea (defined by an apnea-hypopnea index based on peripheral arterial tone more than 5 times/hour) were observed in 81% of the subjects. During the one-year monitoring period, 14 of the 59 subjects (24%) used occasional systemic corticosteroids for their exacerbation asthma (worsened group) while the other 45 subjects did not experience asthma exacerbation (stable group). A comparison of the baseline clinical characteristics and sleep-related data between the two groups, mean forced expiratory volume one second percent (FEV1/FVC), mean baseline Asthma Control Test (ACT) score, median pAHI value, and median oxygen desaturation index value were significantly lower in the worsened group than those in the stable group. Additionally, mean prevalence of the left lateral decubitus (LLD) position in sleep monitoring were significantly higher in the worsened group than that in the stable group. Among the independent variables, baseline asthma severity, ACT score, and the LLD position showed significant associations with asthma exacerbation. Discussion/Conclusion: The present study identified that sleeping in the LLD position was also associated with asthma exacerbation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pathogenic mitochondrial (mt)DNA mutations, which often cause life‐threatening disorders, are maternally inherited via the cytoplasm of oocytes. Mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT) is expected to prevent second‐generation transmission of mtDNA mutations. However, MRT may affect the function of respiratory chain complexes comprised of both nuclear and mitochondrial proteins. Methods: Based on the literature and current regulatory guidelines (especially in Japan), we analyzed and reviewed the recent developments in human models of MRT. Main findings: MRT does not compromise pre‐implantation development or stem cell isolation. Mitochondrial function in stem cells after MRT is also normal. Although mtDNA carryover is usually less than 0.5%, even low levels of heteroplasmy can affect the stability of the mtDNA genotype, and directional or stochastic mtDNA drift occurs in a subset of stem cell lines (mtDNA genetic drift). MRT could prevent serious genetic disorders from being passed on to the offspring. However, it should be noted that this technique currently poses significant risks for use in embryos designed for implantation. Conclusion: The maternal genome is fundamentally compatible with different mitochondrial genotypes, and vertical inheritance is not required for normal mitochondrial function. Unresolved questions regarding mtDNA genetic drift can be addressed by basic research using MRT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) is widely used as a biomarker of allergic airway inflammation. At present, both stationary chemiluminescence and portable electrochemical analyzers produced by different manufacturers are available. However, it remains debatable whether those analyzers are comparable to each other. We compare FeNO levels obtained by different analyzers. Methods: For the first study, 153 subjects were enrolled to compare differences in FeNO levels measured using three analyzers (NA623NP®, NObreath®, and NIOX MINO®) which were produced by different manufacturers. For the second study, 30 subjects were recruited to compare FeNO levels obtained by the two analyzers (NIOX MINO® and NIOX VERO®) produced by the same manufacturer. FeNO was measured twice using each analyzer in random order. Results: FeNO levels obtained using the NIOX MINO® and NObreath® were more variable than those measured using the NA623NP®. There were strong positive correlations in FeNO levels measured by the NA623NP®, NIOX MINO®, and NObreath® (p < 0.001). The NA623NP® and NIOX MINO® provided the highest and lowest FeNO levels, respectively; whereas, those obtained by NObreath® were intermediate. No significant differences were observed in FeNO levels obtained using the NIOX MINO® and NIOX VERO®. Conclusions: FeNO levels measured by the NIOX MINO® and NIOX VERO®, both of which were produced by the same manufacturer, have comparability. However, significant differences in FeNO levels exist when measured by analyzers manufactured by different manufacturers. This should be taken into account for FeNO measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manganese (Mn)-based strong magnets have long been a challenge because their 3d half-filled nature, owing to the close proximity of Mn atoms, results in antiferromagnetic ordering. Among various Mn magnetic materials, L10-MnAl (τ-phase) has received much attention since it shows ferromagnetism at a high Curie temperature despite the very short Mn–Mn distance. However, because of the difficult synthesis of the stoichiometric and perfectly ordered τ-phase, its intrinsic magnetic properties and mechanism are unclear. Here, we show the first observation of antiferromagnetism, having sixfold magnetic superstructure along the c-axis, in stoichiometric and chemically ordered τ-phase. Moreover, we found that super-exchange interaction between Mn atoms via p-electrons of Al atoms causes antiferromagnetism in τ-phase. The ferromagnetism in the conventional Mn-rich τ-phase results from the suppression of the super-exchange interaction due to the substitution the excess Mn atoms for the Al atoms. The current study of Mn-based magnetic materials mainly focuses on the lattice constant engineering based on the simple Beth-Slater picture of direct exchange. These findings present effective ways to obtain high magnetization without antiferromagnetic ordering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The objective is to clarify the practical problem of the preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) for myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) in Japanese subjects. Methods: For the 32 couples who consented to participate in PGT for DM1, CTG repeats number on the unaffected alleles was analyzed. Based on the allele combination, they were classified into 3 groups by the number of diagnostic allelic pattern; "full informative," "semi informative," and "noninformative." According to the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (JSOG) principle, PGT was performed using the direct diagnosis to the 288 embryos from the 17 couples who received the ethical approval from both our institution and JSOG. Results: In the 32 couples, the frequency of CTG repeats on the unaffected alleles showed bimodal distribution. The "full informative," "semi informative," and "noninformative" couples accounted for 46.9% (15/32 couples), 46.9% (15/32 couples) and 6.2% (2/32 couples), respectively. The transferable embryos accounted for 28.9% (33/114 embryos) in the "full informative" couples, although it was limited to 12.6% (22/174 embryos) in the "semi informative" couples. Conclusion: The loss of unaffected embryos which cannot be diagnosed as transferable was a clinically major problem and implied an increase in oocyte retrieval, especially for "semi informative" couples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The binding activity to heparan sulphate is crucial for the mitogenic activity of fibroblast growth factor 4 (FGF4) in developing mammalian embryos. There are two conserved cysteine residues in FGF family proteins, Cys-84 and Cys-151 in mouse FGF4, and these constitute all of the cysteine residues in FGF4. However, the relationships among the heparin binding activity, growth promoting activity, and the two conserved cysteine residues in FGF4 are still unclear. Consequently, we generated in Escherichia coli three kinds of point-mutated mouse FGF4, namely C84S, C151S, and C84S;C151S, by converting the cysteine residues to serine residues. In heparin column chromatography, the heparin binding activities of these mutants were attenuated. In particular, the activity of the double-mutated C84S;C151S was weakened considerably. The growth promoting activities of these mutants correlated well with their heparin binding activities. We also demonstrated that an octapeptide, the Leu-76 to Tyr-83 region, which contained four basic amino acid residues and flanked Cys-84 in mouse FGF4, enhanced the heparin binding activity when fused to glutathione-S-transferase as a recombinant protein. Overall, our findings imply that the two conserved cysteine residues in FGF4 are both involved in the heparin binding activity and mitogenicity likely by affecting the configuration of heparin binding sites in FGF4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the random magnetic anisotropy in isotropic nanocrystalline composite permanent magnets was investigated by means of numerical simulations. The magnetization reversal of randomly oriented hard-soft exchange-coupled grains was simulated using the Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert equation in which the magnetization in a particular grain is assumed to align in the same direction (single-spin model). The calculations show that the energy product (BH)max of nanocomposite magnets has a peak value 50 MGOe at 6 nm. It is about 80% of that of single-crystal Nd2Fe14B. The coercivity HC exhibits a steep decrease toward smaller grain size, which is the result of the suppression of the random magnetic anisotropy by exchange interaction. Therefore, in isotropic nanocomposite magnets, the enhancement of energy product is limited by the suppression of the random magnetic anisotropy by exchange interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a case of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) complicated with a IgG4 related disease like symptoms presenting as eyelid swellings. In the present case, the serum level of IgG4 and the ratio of IgG4 to IgG were generally increased by the disease course of EGPA. Considering the course of clinical symptoms, there is a possibility that orbital manifestations were one of the clinical features during the disease course of EGPA while the histological features of right eyelid tissue and other ocular manifestations were consistent with the diagnosis of IgG4 related disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the treatment with anticancer drugs, it is important to deliver an anticancer agent to target site of the tumor at an appropriate concentration. However, it is difficult to directly measure the distribution amount of the agent and effect of anticancer drug is evaluated using its tumor suppression effect. In this study, we report an approach to visualizing an anticancer agent distribution in tumor-bearing mouse model using Overhauser enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (OMRI). The agent, doxorubicin, is one of anthracycline anticancer drugs and can form a free radical at its quinone sites and could be visualized using OMRI. After direct injection into a tumor, doxorubicin free radical was successfully imaged in tumor-bearing mouse, demonstrating practical usefulness of OMRI in the study of pharmacodynamics of free radical compounds. Imaging of antitumor agent would be potentially useful as a guidance tool for image-guided-therapy of cancer local chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We reported previously that EGAM1 homeoproteins (EGAM1 and EGAM1N), transcribed from the Crxos gene as splicing variants, are expressed in preimplantation mouse embryos and mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells. Exogenous expression of these proteins affects the maintenance of an undifferentiated state and the progression of differentiation in mouse ES cells. Human tetrapeptide-repeat homeobox 1 (TPRX1), a member of the eutherian totipotent cell homeobox (ETCHbox) genes, is an ortholog of Crxos. However, the roles of TPRX1 in the differentiation of human pluripotent cells are still unknown. Because the TPRX1 transcripts were undetectable in an undifferentiated state and during the progression of differentiation in wild-type human embryonal carcinoma NT2/D1 cells, it would be advantageous to clarify the relationship between the exogenous expression of TPRX1 and the induction of genes encoding lineage-specific transcription factors in pluripotent cells. The expression of GATA6 and FOXA2, crucial transcription factors for the formation of the primitive endoderm, was upregulated, whereas that of CDX2, a crucial transcription factor for the formation of the trophectoderm, was downregulated by enforced expression of TPRX1. Overall, we suggest that TPRX1 is capable of modulating the expression of lineage-specific transcription factors in pluripotent cells derived from humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Although endometriosis is a benign disease, it shares some features with cancers, such as invasiveness and the potential to metastasize. This study sought to investigate the epithelial-mesenchymal transition status in human endometriotic lesions.Material and Methods: Thirteen endometriosis patients and 10 control women without endometriosis undergoing surgery for benign indications were recruited. We examined the expression of E-cadherin, vimentin, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition-induced transcriptional factors, such as Snail and ZEB1, by immunohistochemistry. We evaluated the expression of each marker in epithelial cells of both endometriotic lesions (ovarian endometrioma, deep infiltrating endometriosis, adenomyosis) and normal endometria. The correlation between ZEB1 expression and serum level of CA125 was also investigated.Results: Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that although E-cadherin, vimentin, and Snail were expressed in epithelia of normal endometria and endometriotic lesions, ZEB1 expression was only expressed in epithelia of endometriotic lesions. Additionally, ZEB1 was most frequently observed in epithelial cells of invasive endometriosis. The endometriosis patients with high serum CA125 level were more likely to have ZEB1-positive lesions.Conclusions: This is the first observation of ZEB1 expression in epithelial cells of benign disease. The preferential expression of ZEB1 in epithelial cells of endometriotic lesions suggests that these cells may have, at least in part, a higher level of mesenchymal features possibly via ZEB1-driven epithelial-mesenchymal transition than normal endometria and that ZEB1 can be a potential indicator of invasiveness or severity of endometriosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA) and coronary angiography (CAG) with regard to luminal graphic definition of calcified segments using 128-slice dual-source computed tomography (DSCT), specifically for patients with an Agatston score >400.Materials and Methods: Of 1148 consecutive patients who underwent coronary CTA using a 128-slice DSCT, 132 subjects had severe calcification with an Agatston score >400. Thirty-nine of the 132 patients who had undergone CAG within 3 months before or after coronary CTA were included. We investigated the distribution of calcification, and we visually evaluated significant stenosis in the calcified and all segments. Results were compared with CAG.Results: The target group in this study had a very high mean Agatston score of 1771 ± 1724. Results for sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of 247 calcified vs all 325 segments were as follows: sensitivity 93.2 vs 92.2%, specificity 83.9 vs 87.5%, PPV 70.8 vs 69.6%, and NPV 96.7 vs 97.3%, respectively.Conclusion: 128-slice DSCT has potential for evaluation of calcified segments in the lumen, even in patients whose Agatston score exceeds 400. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with idiopathic interstitial pneumonia can experience acute respiratory worsening, also known as acute exacerbation, with a large deterioration on prognosis. The precise mechanism remains unclear; however, syndecan-4 may be involved. Syndecan-4, a transmembrane heparan sulfate proteoglycan expressed in a variety of cells (e.g., epithelial cells, macrophages, fibroblasts, etc.), performs various biological roles by binding to several proteins through its heparan sulfate glycosaminoglycan side chains. The goal of this study was to clarify the role of syndecan-4 in acute exacerbation of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia. Methods: Patients with idiopathic interstitial pneumonia who had been sequentially admitted to our hospital due to acute exacerbation were retrospectively analyzed. First, serum syndecan-4 levels in the acute exacerbation and clinically stable phases were compared. Second, the relationship between serum syndecan-4 levels and clinical parameters was analyzed. Third, the relationship between serum syndecan-4 levels and prognosis was evaluated. Results: Serum syndecan-4 levels were significantly lower in patients with acute exacerbation of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia than in patients in the clinically stable phase. Serum syndecan-4 levels also showed a significant positive correlation with white blood cell count and a weak positive tendency with KL-6 and baseline %VC. Prognosis was significantly worse in patients with idiopathic interstitial pneumonia with high baseline serum syndecan-4 levels than with low baseline levels. Multiple logistic analysis indicated baseline serum syndecan-4 level as the only prognostic predictor following acute exacerbation. Conclusions: Baseline serum syndecan-4 is a possible prognostic biomarker after the onset of acute exacerbation of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cesarean scar syndrome results from a postoperative defect of the uterine isthmus, also known as an isthmocele. Patients present with gynecological symptoms, such as abnormal genital bleeding or infertility, after cesarean delivery. Although the cesarean rate is increasing worldwide, this syndrome is not widely known.Case Presentation: A 43-year-old G2P1 Japanese woman with atypical cesarean scar syndrome had a 3-year history of secondary infertility and postmenstrual brown discharge. Laparoscopic and hysteroscopic exploration revealed a cesarean scar defect connected to a small cavity in the myometrium: this was not an endometrial cavity or a uterine diverticulum. After endoscopic excision of the cavity, the brown discharge resolved, and the patient achieved ongoing pregnancy on her third attempt at intrauterine insemination.Conclusion: Consensus is still lacking regarding the diagnosis and treatment of cesarean scar defect. However, the gynecologists should be aware that cesarean scar syndrome can have scar defects forming cavities of unusual shapes and features. Surgical correction of these defects will often improve postmenstrual bleeding and subfertility in these cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Syndecan-4 is a transmembrane heparan sulfate proteoglycan expressed in a variety of cells, and glycosaminoglycan side chains of syndecan-4 bind to several proteins, suggesting several biological functions. However, the role of syndecan-4 in acute bacterial pneumonia has not yet been elucidated. Methods: Serum syndecan-4 levels were measured in patients with acute pneumonia, and the relationships between serum syndecan-4 levels and clinical parameters were analyzed. Next, we treated wild-type and syndecan-4-deficient mice with Streptococcus pneumoniae intranasally and analyzed the phenotype of syndecan-4-deficient mice. Results: In the patients with acute pneumonia, serum syndecan-4 levels were significantly higher than in the healthy volunteers and correlated negatively with the pneumonia severity score. In addition, in patients who improved with short-term antibiotic therapy, serum syndecan-4 levels were higher on admission and gradually increased during antibiotic therapy. Furthermore, in syndecan-4-deficient mice, the survival rate was significantly worse, and total neutrophil counts in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, bacterial counts in blood, and plasma levels of inflammatory cytokines were significantly higher than in wild-type mice. Conclusions: These results suggest that syndecan-4 has an anti-inflammatory function in acute pneumonia and could serve as a useful biomarker in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Secretoglobin (SCGB) 3A2, previously known as uteroglobin-related protein 1, is a secreted protein highly expressed in the epithelial cells of the airways. It has been demonstrated that SCGB3A2 is involved in allergic airway inflammation such as bronchial asthma. However, the role of SCGB3A2 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced airway inflammation has yet to be reported. The goal of this study was therefore to clarify the role of SCGB3A2 in LPS-induced airway inflammation. We stimulated BEAS-2B, human bronchial epithelial cells, with LPS and analyzed messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and CXCL8 with or without pre-incubation of SCGB3A2. The mRNA expression of TNF-α and CXCL8 was clearly upregulated 3 h after LPS stimulation, and pre-incubation of SCGB3A2 significantly inhibited the upregulation of the mRNA expression. The pre-incubation of SCGB3A2 also inhibited LPS-induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), but not p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase in BEAS-2B cells. Furthermore, PD98059, a specific inhibitor for ERK, as well as SP600125, a specific inhibitor for JNK, inhibited LPS-induced mRNA upregulation of inflammatory mediators. These results demonstrate the novel biological activity of SCGB3A2, which is that it attenuates LPS-induced inflammation in bronchial epithelial cells through inhibition of ERK and JNK activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The survival rate of patients with malignant melanoma is still low, and there is no established chemotherapeutic method. With the appearance of molecular targeted drugs, improvement in the survival rate can be expected. However, at present, malignant melanoma remains a disease associated with one of the poorest prognoses. Materials and methods: We analyzed a total of 51 cases of malignant melanoma who were treated at the Department of Dermatology, University of Fukui from September 2001 to May 2013. Results: The survival rate was significantly lower in patients aged ≥65 years. The 5-year survival rate was 100 % for Stage 0/I, 79.59 % for Stage II, and 52 % for Stage III. The incidence of lymph node metastasis was highest in nodular melanoma, and zero in lentigo maligna melanoma. There was a significantly high risk of lymph node metastasis in the presence of ulceration. There was no association between incisional biopsy and lymph node metastasis. Conclusions: Although the data were obtained in only one institution and the number of cases was limited in this study, the results are close to previous international data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are many methods for sentinel lymph node (SLN) navigation. The methods using radioisotopes and blue dyes are performed mainly for the identification of SLN. Our current method for SLN biopsy is a combination of three techniques with 99mTc-phytate, patent blue V dye, and preoperative CT-lymphography (CTLG). Patients and methods: Iomeprol (Iomeron) as a water-soluble contrast agent is diluted twofold with 1 % lidocaine and intradermally injected into a few sites (2-5 ml at each site) around the tumor. After the injection, CT imaging is performed using a 64-row MDCT system (Siemens SOMATOM Definition AS+). We performed CTLG in 34 patients (16 men, 18 women) between September 2008 and March 2013. Results: CTLG clearly visualized the SLN and the lymphatic drainage in 21 out of 34 patients. Conclusions: We can detect the SLN and lymphatic flow near to tumors without shine-through effect, especially in the head and neck regions. It is thought that CTLG may be useful to determine the range of lymph node dissection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective Hyaluronan is an important constituent of the extracellular matrix in lungs, and growing evidence demonstrates its important biological properties in the lung. However, its role in interstitial pneumonia remains to be fully clarified. The goal of this study was to clarify the role of hyaluronan in interstitial pneumonia. Methods Hyaluronan in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage ( BAL) fluid of chronic interstitial pneumonia ( CIP) patients was measured, and the correlation with clinical parameters was determined. In addition, the correlation between hyaluronan in serum and clinical parameters was analysed in patients with acute exacerbation of interstitial pneumonia ( IP-AE). Results When compared with healthy controls, serum hyaluronan was significantly greater in patients with CIP and was positively correlated with serum biomarkers of inflammation and fibrosis, such as C-reactive protein and surfactant protein- D. In BAL fluid, the amount of hyaluronan was positively correlated with the percentage of inflammatory cells and the amount of CXCL8. When compared with CIP patients, patients with IP-AE had significantly greater amounts of serum hyaluronan, and patients with the highest serum hyaluronan had the worst 60-day outcomes. Conclusions This work suggests that serum hyaluronan may be a clinically useful biomarker of interstitial pneumonia and suggests the possibility that hyaluronan is involved in the pathogenesis of interstitial pneumonia by recruiting inflammatory cells into the lungs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the correlation between the ooplasmic volume and the number of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copies in embryos and how they may affect fecundity. Method: Using real-time PCR, mtDNA quantification was analyzed in unfertilized oocytes and uncleaved embryos. The size of the ovum was also assessed by calculating the ooplasmic volume at the time of granulosa cell removal for IVF or ICSI. Quantification analysis of the mtDNA in blastomeres was performed by real-time PCR at the 7–8 cell stage of the cleaved embryos at 72 h after oocyte retrieval. We calculated the cytoplasmic volume of the blastomeres. Result: Our studies showed a significantly lower mtDNA copy number in unfertilized oocytes and uncleaved embryos in women who were older than 40 years of age ( p < 0.05). The larger ooplasmic volume was also associated with earlier and more rapid cleavage ( p < 0.05). The ooplasmic volume was also significantly larger in the group achieving pregnancy. We found a significant positive correlation between blastomere volume and the number of mtDNA copies ( r = 0.76, p < 0.01, from Pearson product–moment correlation coefficient). Conclusions: We have shown that blastomere volume is directly proportional to the number of mtDNA copies. Therefore, larger cytoplasmic volume, with earlier cleavage speed, implies more mtDNA copies. Evaluation of mtDNA quantification and the measurement of ooplasmic and blastomere volume may be useful for selection of high quality embryo and pregnancy outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Asthma education is an important adjunct for asthma control although the way asthma education affects asthma outcomes is poorly understood. The asthma control test (ACT), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) have all been used as markers of asthma control. However, the use of FeNO as a surrogate marker remains controversial. Objectives. (i) To examine whether asthma education is associated with asthma control; (ii) to compare absolute levels and changes of ACT, FEV1, and FeNO over a year; and (iii) to evaluate whether FeNO can be used as an additional marker of asthma control. Methods. Fifty asthmatics with poor adherence (12 mild, 21 moderate, and 17 severe) received asthma education at study entry. Medications were unchanged for the first 3 months, and ACT, FEV1, and FeNO measurements were recorded at entry, 3, 6, and 12 months. Asthma control was assessed at each visit and patients were categorized as either 'stable' or 'unstable' asthmatics according to the global initiative for asthma (GINA) guidelines. Results. A significant decrease in FeNO and increase in ACT score were noted in the stable asthmatic group at 3 months ( p < .001), and this persisted over 12 months. Significant correlations were seen between changes (Δ) in FeNO, ACT, and FEV1 over time. However, significant correlations between the absolute levels were not maintained over 12 months. A decrease of ≥18.6% in FeNO and a ≥3-point increase in ACT score (sensitivity: 80% and 73.3% and specificity: 83.3% and 87.5%, respectively) were associated with stable asthma control although the absolute levels were not. Conclusions. Asthma education may be useful to achieve stable control. In addition, changes rather than absolute levels of FeNO and ACT may be better markers of asthma control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To date, bronchial diverticula have generally been treated as a pathological condition associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), although only a limited amount of published information is available on the relationship between bronchial diverticula as depicted by multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) and airflow limitations. Purpose: To evaluate the relationship between airflow limitations and main bronchial diverticula in the subcarinal region using spirometry and thin-section MDCT. Material and Methods: A total of 189 consecutive adult patients were retrospectively evaluated based on spirometry and thin-section MDCT of the chest. All examinations were performed at our institution between June and October 2008. The study group included 70 women and 119 men with a mean age of 65 years (range 19-86 years). The relationship between the FEV1% and bronchial diverticula in the subcarinal region was analyzed (Student's t-test). Results: The indications for conducting the examinations were pulmonary diseases (82 patients), cardiovascular diseases (22), extrapulmonary malignancies (74), and other conditions (11). A total of 84/189 (44.4%) patients showed bronchial diverticula, and the FEV1% of 70/84 (83.3%) patients was above 70. The FEV1% of patients with lesions ranged from 26.0 to 97.8 (mean 76.8), whereas the range was 28.1-94.4 (mean 73.7) in those without lesions. There was no significant association between the FEV1% and the presence of subcarinal bronchial diverticula (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Our data demonstrate that thin-section chest CT commonly demonstrates main bronchial diverticula in the subcarinal region in patients without airflow limitations. We propose that the presence of a small number of tiny bronchial diverticula under the carina may not be a criterion for the diagnosis of COPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the relationship between Cloninger's four dimensions of temperament and multidimensional self-oriented perfectionism as a factor of gender. Multiple regression analysis indicated that, for both sexes, persistence on the temperamental dimension positively affected all aspects of self-oriented perfectionism. Novelty seeking and reward dependence negatively affected concern over mistakes only in men. Reward dependence negatively affected desire for perfection. Harm avoidance positively affected concern over mistakes and desire for perfection only in women. The results of this study suggest that there are gender commonalities and differences in temperamental traits that form the basis of multidimensional self-oriented perfectionism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The consistency of the boundary conditions imposed on the nonequilibrium Green’s function (NEGF) method is investigated by comparing the electron energy distribution at the drain end with the thermal equilibrium distribution. We show that the boundary condition is not consistently satisfied in the cases of ballistic transport and quasi-ballistic transport including scattering only in the channel region. It is pointed out that inclusion of scattering in the high-doped regions is inevitable to be consistent and crucial to obtain reliable transport characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine whether off-line fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) measurement is applicable to screen allergic airway inflammation for epidemiologic studies, we examined 280 adults, measuring off-line FeNO samplings, pulmonary function, and serum immunoglobulin E (IgE). Subjects with recurrent wheeze (recurrent wheezers) had significantly higher FeNO and IgE levels and significantly lower forced expiratory volume in 1 second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) than non-wheezers. Statistical analysis showed that FeNO and FEV1/FVC were significant predictors for recurrent wheezers, independent of smoking. The cut-off FeNO level for screening allergic airway inflammation was 38 ppb in non-smokers and 32.9 ppb in smokers. Thus, off-line FeNO can be used as a good marker to screen allergic airway inflammation, regardless of smoking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the thermosensitive periods and physiological processes in tomato flowers exposed to moderately elevated temperatures, tomato plants (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill., cv. NC 8288) were grown at 28/22 °C or 32/26 °C day/night temperature regimes and then transferred to the opposite regime for 0–15 d before or 0–24 h after anthesis. For plants initially grown at 28/22 °C, moderate temperature stress before anthesis decreased the percentage of fruit set per plant, but did not clarify the thermosensitive period. The same level of stress did not significantly reduce fruit set when applied immediately after anthesis. For plants initially grown at 32/26 °C, fruit set was completely prevented unless a relief period of more than 5 d was provided before anthesis. The same level of stress relief for 3–24 h after anthesis also increased fruit set. Plants were most sensitive to 32/26 °C temperatures 7–15 d before anthesis. Microscopic investigation of anthers in plants grown continuously at high temperature indicated disruption of development in the pollen, endothecium, epidermis, and stomium. This disruption was reduced, but still observable in plants relieved from high temperature for 10 d before anthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Presents a cross-cultural study on how college students from eleven countries rate the importance of love in the establishment and maintenance of marriage. Importance of love, specially on marriage establishment and maintenance, among Western and Westernized cultures; Lack of sex differences on love perception; Emphasis of love in marriage decisions in individualistic cultures.

The use of ferromagnetic nanoparticles for hyperthermia and thermoablation therapies has shown great promise in the field of nanobiomedicine. Even local hyperthermia offers numerous advantages as a novel cancer therapy; however, it requires a remarkably high heating power of more than 1 kW g[?]1 for heat agents. As a candidate for high heat generation, we focus on ferromagnetic nanoparticles and compare their physical properties with those of superparamagnetic substances. Numerical simulations for ideal single-domain ferromagnetic nanoparticles with cubic and uniaxial magnetic symmetries were carried out and MH curves together with minor loops were obtained. From the simulation, the efficient use of an alternating magnetic field (AMF) having a limited amplitude was discussed. Co-ferrite nanoparticles with various magnitudes of coercive force were produced by co-precipitation and a hydrothermal process. A maximum specific loss power of 420 W g[?]1 was obtained using an AMF at 117 kHz with H0 = 51.4 kA m[?]1 (640 Oe). The relaxation behaviour in the ferromagnetic state below the superparamagnetic blocking temperature was examined by Mossbauer spectroscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]