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We assess long-term surgical outcomes after an initial trabeculectomy for cytomegalovirus-associated anterior uveitis with secondary glaucoma (CMV-SG). We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 16 eyes of 15 patients with CMV-SG and 157 eyes of 157 patients with primary open-angle glaucoma. The average follow-up period was approximately 3 years. Surgical success was defined as intraocular pressure (IOP) below 18 mmHg and at least 20% lower than baseline. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis revealed that bleb survival rates were not significantly different in the CMV-SG and POAG groups (P = 0.75). Bullous keratopathy occurred in 2 of 16 eyes with CMV-SG postoperatively but did not occur in the POAG group. The corneal endothelial cell density decreased by 34.2 ± 22.7% in the CMV-SG group during an average follow-up period of 2.7 ± 2.0 years. Trabeculectomy effectively controlled IOP in CMV-SG, but attention must be paid to corneal endothelial cell loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two novel proofs show that the sum of a specific pair of normal random variables is not normal are established in this note. This is one of the most often misunderstood facts by first-year students in probability theory and statistics. The first proof is concise using the moment generating function. The second proof checks whether the moments of the sum have the property of normal distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composite structures are optimized in shape by terminating specific plies gradually. However, stress concentration at the ply drop-off can cause interlaminar delamination from the ply edge. In this study, Ply Curving Termination (PCT), which is introduced by locally curving fibers at 0° ply edges, is used to enhance tensile strength of the ply drop-off. To clarify the dependence of the PCT strength on the curved fiber angle (PCT angle), static tensile tests using ply drop-off specimens are conducted, followed by detailed damage observations using X-ray CT. The results indicates that the strength significantly increases with PCT but the fracture behavior differs depending on the PCT angle. Interestingly, specimens with large PCT angles fail from the position where the fibers curve, away from the ply edge. This PCT-specific failure mechanism is then elucidated using finite element analysis and the virtual crack closure technique, indicating that shear lag caused by the stiffness change due to fiber curving is important. Finally, using the revealed PCT failure mechanism, PCT angles that are the most effective in enhancing tensile strength is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents cultural conservation projects in Iran and Iraq, in each of which the social context of the archaeological site and the collection were also considered, in order to develop long-term conservation planning. The objective of one project is to improve the water supply for the local village population near an ancient salt mine in Iran in order to retain them as stewards of the archaeological site. Another project shows how digital media and different narrative perspectives are intended to appeal to different target groups in Iran and worldwide to raise awareness of the so-called salt mummies recovered from the ancient salt mine. International experts are also addressed via online formats to discuss the challenges of the ethical handling of human remains for conservation and exhibition. In Kurdistan (Iraq), young archaeology students are introduced to the topics of archaeological heritage management in order to recruit them as future caretakers. What all projects have in common is that relationships and cross-sector networks are being established to build a crisis-proof local community that takes care of its cultural heritage. In this way, projects can be implemented that are primarily carried out by local actors, thereby building up expertise that will endure. These projects are the initial attempts to link cultural preservation and social well-being and thus to make a contribution to sustainable development in line with the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A reflexive referentially depends on another NP. Long-standing inquiries in sentence processing literature revolve around whether and how forming this coreference relation during online sentence processing is susceptible to similarity-based interference. To address these questions, we conducted four experiments using L-maze tasks. The results revealed (delayed) interference in ungrammatical sentences, indicating facilitatory interference. We also found that structural information associated with a distractor and related to clause finiteness may influence memory retrieval. Interference effects were not observed in grammatical sentences across all experiments. These results suggest that online reflexive resolution may be susceptible to interference only when the reflexive mismatches its structurally accessible antecedent in features, and that structural information may influence how a distractor interferes with memory retrieval during online sentence processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this study were to retrospectively investigate the patient characteristics, treatment patterns, healthcare resource utilization (HCRU), and healthcare costs related to management of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) in Japan. Cohorts of NF1 patients with or without plexiform neurofibromas (PN) were identified from the Medical Data Vision database in 2008–2019. Baseline characteristics, NF1 medications, HCRU, and associated costs were assessed using descriptive statistics. All-cause HCRU and costs following the first confirmed NF1 diagnosis date were analyzed per patient per year (PPPY) in Japanese Yen (JPY) and United States Dollar (USD). A total of 4394 NF1 patients without PN and 370 NF1 patients with PN were identified. The mean age was 35.0 and 36.9 years, respectively. The proportion of patients with PN treated with medications was higher than that in patients without PN (except for antirheumatic/immunologic agents). Analgesics/non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were the most frequently prescribed NF1 medications (44.3% and 56.0% in patients without and with PN, respectively), followed by inpatient prescriptions of opioids/opioid-like agents (17.8% and 27.6%, respectively). Inpatient admissions accounted for the highest costs in both cohorts with the average cost PPPY being JPY 2,133,277 (USD 19,861) for patients without PN and JPY 1,052,868 (USD 9802) for patients with PN. NF1 is treated primarily with supportive care with analgesics/non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs being the most frequently prescribed NF1 medications in Japan. Findings underscored the unmet need and substantial economic burden among patients with NF1 and highlighted the need for new treatment options for patients with this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the performance of the abdominal handheld point-of-care ultrasonography (POcus) Butterfly-iQ to gold standard transvaginal ultrasonography (Us) in identifying the position of intrauterine devices (lUDs) in the hands of a medical doctor specialised in ultrasonography. Methods: in this diagnostic accuracy study, a single operator conducted abdominal POCUS followed by conventional transvaginal US. Seventy patients utilising copper or hormonal iUDs were assessed between June 2021 and October 2022. iUDs were categorised as entirely within the uterine cavity or malpositioned. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy were calculated for detecting malpositioned iUDs, with conventional US results serving as the reference standard. Concordance rate and Kappa coefficient were computed to assess the agreement between the two ultrasound modalities. Results: among the 70 patients, 46 (65.7%) used copper iUDs, and 24 (34.3%) used hormonal iUDs. Conventional transvaginal US showed iUDs entirely within the uterine cavity in 56 (80%) patients and 14 (20%) iUDs were malpositioned. Of the 14 malpositioned iUDs seen by conventional US, POCUS identified 13 demonstrating a sensitivity of 92.9% (66.1-99.8). Of the 56 iUDs entirely within the uterine cavity shown by conventional US, only two cases were considered malpositioned by POCUS demonstrating a specificity of 96.4% (87.7-99.6). The concordance rate was 95.7%, and the Kappa value was 0.87 in differentiating between iUDs entirely within the uterine cavity and those that were malpositioned. Conclusion: Abdominal POCUS using Butterfly-iQ, when administered by an imaging specialist, exhibited excellent performance in confirming iUDs entirely within the uterine cavity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ply drop-off is a weak point of a tapered composite laminate, where stress concentration occurs and delamination initiates. By suppressing delamination from the ply drop-off, more optimized structural design and further weight reduction are possible. Ply Curving Termination (PCT), which locally changes the fiber direction at the edge of the dropped ply, is one of the promising delamination suppression mechanisms. To improve the technical maturity of PCT, this study conducted tensile fatigue tests using asymmetric taper configuration. Damage initiation, delamination propagation, and final failure were evaluated in detail by changing the PCT fiber angle and loading level, confirming that large PCT angles are effective in improving the fatigue properties of tapered laminates and that controlling the location of initial damage is necessary to maximize the effectiveness of PCT. Based on the findings, an effective design guideline for tapered laminates with PCT was presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Posterior expansion of the utricular endolymphatic space (ES) is a finding occasionally observed, and often occurs in bilateral ears. The clinical significance of posterior expansion of the utricular ES is not clear. To investigate the clinical significance of posterior expansion of the utricular ES detected on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Among 957 patients who underwent contrast-enhanced MRI to investigate the presence of endolymphatic hydrops (EH), clinical findings in cases with posterior expansion of the utricular ES were evaluated and the significance of their existence is considered. Posterior expansion of the utricular ES was detected in 30 ears from 20 cases (7 males, 13 females; mean age 48.7 years). The ears with posterior expansion had a significantly lower incidence of vestibular EH than those without, and this tendency was more prominent in cases in bilateral ears. Some cases with posterior expansion had vestibular symptoms and were diagnosed with Ménière's disease, although EH was not detected in their vestibules. Posterior expansion of the utricular ES was associated with Ménière's disease without vestibular EH. Posterior expansion of the utricular ES might not be associated with the formation of EH but may occur independently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Particle flowability can be improved by admixing with particles smaller than the original main particles. However, the effects of the admixed particle coating structure for the main particle surface on the improvement of flowability are not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the effects of coating structures prepared under various mixing strength conditions (compression force and rotational speed) on particle compaction flowability. The main and admixed particles for various mass ratios were mixed in various mixing strength conditions and the compacted packing fractions of the mixed particles were measured. SEM images and SAXS were used to analyze the surface coating ratio, coating diameter, and fractal dimension of the admixed particles on the main particle surfaces. The difference in fractal dimension calculated from the SAXS data and the coating diameter ranges of the admixed particle agglomerates obtained from SEM images showed that the improvement mainly depended on coating structures in agglomerates 30–60 nm in size of the admixed particles. An optimal coating structure for improving the compaction flowability was an average gap between agglomerates on the main particle surfaces of around 2–3 times the coating diameter. This result was explained by a linked rigid three-body model movement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various complications of arterial embolisation (AE) for postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) are reported. Endometritis (EM) frequently causes abscesses, increasing hysterectomy risk. However, risk factors for EM after AE for PPH are unclear. We explored these risk factors. We included patients who underwent AE for PPH in our hospital from 2005 to 2020 and compared those who did (EM group) and did not develop EM after AE (non-EM group) in a case-control study. Twenty patients met the study criteria; eight patients (40%) had EM. There were no differences in risk factors between groups involved in infection, such as premature rupture of membranes. However, the contrast medium extravasation rate on computed tomography scans before the AE procedure was significantly higher in the EM group (p=.019) compared to the non-EM group. The greatest EM risk factor was contrast medium extravasation before AE for PPH, determined by classification and regression tree modelling (relative risk: 4.5). What is already known on this subject? Reportedly, the clinical success rate of arterial embolisation (AE) for critical haemorrhage in obstetrics is high, around 90%. However, information regarding AE complications is limited. Endometritis is one of these complications, which not only causes prolonged hospitalisation but may also require further treatment, such as hysterectomy. However, the incidence rate and risk factors for EM remain unknown. What do the results of this study add? In this study, 40.0% of patients developed EM after AE for PPH. Extravasation of contrast medium was the top risk factor (relative risk: 4.5 compared to those without EM, p=.019). The second-leading risk factor was a bleeding volume greater than 2500 mL (relative risk: 4.5 compared to those without EM, p=.019). What are the implications of these findings for future clinical practice and/or future research? We created an EM prediction model using extravasation and a bleeding volume greater than 2500 mL. The model was 87.5% sensitive and 66.7% specific. This prediction model allows for the early detection and treatment of EM by recognising high-risk patients and providing intensive postpartum management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large bone defects that occur after resection of calvarial tumours are commonly remedied using titanium meshes or bone prostheses. However, these methods have several problems. While intraoperative extracorporeal radiotherapy for bone flaps could avoid these problems, there have been only a few reports wherein meningiomas were treated with 120Gy irradiation. Moreover, no reports are available on calvarial metastasis of sarcoma, and the therapeutic radiation dose remains uncertain. Here, we report a case of giant calvarial metastasis of myxoid liposarcoma treated with intraoperative extracorporeal radiotherapy at a dose of 50Gy. The treatment resulted in successful tumour control followed by favourable bone reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thousands of glitter particles are potentially daily released into aquatic ecosystems, but their effects on the ecological processes of aquatic species remain unknown. The metallic coating of glitter could potentially reflect light and interfere with photosynthesis, so this study analysed the photosynthetic rates of the macrophyte Egeria densa in the presence and absence of 0.04 g/L glitter using the light and dark bottle method. We collected 400 individuals of E. densa and separated them into four equal-sized treatment groups (with and without glitter under iluminated and dark conditions). We found that the presence of glitter reduced the rates of net photosynthesis (P N) and gross photosynthesis (P G) of E. densa by 34.61%, and 29.65%, respectively, compared with the control treatment without glitter, and also decreased the light intensity inside the bottles. These results suggest that the metal coating of glitter particles attenuates light penetration and increases water reflectance, wich interferes with underwater radiation and light absorption for photosynthetic processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the defining properties of human language is the abundance of potentially unbounded dependencies between elements in a sentence. And yet, how speakers formulate dependencies in sentence production is still poorly understood. Here we examine the timing of verb planning in sentences involving across-the-board and parasitic gap constructions. Using a new task we call the Sentence-Word Interference task, we show that speakers plan the verb of a secondary clause before sentence onset, but selectively when producing across-the-board sentences and not when producing parasitic gap sentences. Based on this timing contrast, we argue that speakers plan verbs predominantly before the production of their dependents, but only when verbs and their dependents engage in both conceptual and direct syntactic relationships. More broadly, the current study suggests that sentence planning is constrained by syntactic relationships that are not reducible to conceptual relationships or to surface word order. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constructive studies on symbol emergence systems seek to investigate computational models that can better explain human language evolution, the creation of symbol systems, and the construction of internal representations. Specifically, emergent communication aims to formulate a computational model that enables agents to build efficient sign systems and internal representations. This study provides a new model for emergent communication, which is based on a probabilistic generative model (PGM) instead of a discriminative model based on deep reinforcement learning. We define the Metropolis-Hastings (MH) naming game by generalizing previously proposed models. It is not a referential game with explicit feedback, as assumed by many emergent communication studies. Instead, it is a game based on joint attention without explicit feedback. Mathematically, the MH naming game is proved to be a type of MH algorithm for an integrative PGM that combines two agents that play the naming game. From this viewpoint, symbol emergence is regarded as decentralized Bayesian inference, and semiotic communication is regarded as inter-personal cross-modal inference. This notion leads to the collective predictive coding hypothesis regarding language evolution and, in general, the emergence of symbols. We also propose the inter-Gaussian mixture model (GMM)+ variational autoencoder (VAE), a deep generative model for emergent communication based on the MH naming game. In this model, two agents create internal representations and categories and share signs (i.e. names of objects) from raw visual images observed from different viewpoints. The model has been validated on MNIST and Fruits 360 datasets. Experimental findings demonstrate that categories are formed from real images observed by agents, and signs are correctly shared across agents by successfully utilizing both of the observations of agents via the MH naming game. Furthermore, scholars verified that visual images were recalled from signs uttered by agents. Notably, emergent communication without supervision and reward feedback improved the performance of the unsupervised representation learning of agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coexistence of vascular malformations in the conus medullaris and cauda equina has been rarely reported, and the complex angioarchitecture in multiple arteriovenous lesions remains poorly understood. A 17-year-old woman presented with a sudden-onset, stepwise worsening of weakness and pain in the bilateral legs. Angiography revealed conus medullaris arteriovenous malformation and cauda equina arteriovenous fistulas. One of the drainers was shared between the coexisting lesions and harboured a varix. Targeted embolisation of a fistulous point in the conus lesion was performed with precaution to prevent occluding the common drainage route, which led to symptom improvement with angiographical diminishment of the varix. Recognising that communications between drainers can be observed in multiple spinal arteriovenous lesions is important in facilitating a safe embolisation. Cautious assessment of angiogram with fusion images of cone-beam computed tomography and volumetric T2 magnetic resonance imaging can help in establishing the diagnosis and treatment strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the postoperative long-term outcomes after an average of 9.2 years following cochlear implantation (CI) in prelingually deafened adults, along with preimplantation factors predicting postoperative outcomes. Twenty-six prelingually deafened adults who underwent CI at >18 years were compared with those who had undergone CI in childhood (<9 years) and were >10 years old. Outcome measures includedhearing thresholds, preoperative and postoperative aided hearing level (HL), speech discrimination score (SDS), and Categories of Auditory Performance (CAP) scores. Correlation analyses were performed on the following: SDS results, aided HL, school attendant status, implant manufacturers, and speech processor models. Improvement was achieved in the aided HL and SDS results, although these results were not better than those of the child group. CAP score was also statistically significantly improved after CI. Statistically significant correlation between the preoperative SDS and postoperative HL with CI results was observed. In other words, the better the preoperative SDS results, the better the postoperative SDS results. Prelingually deafened adults achieved considerable improvement through CI. It is important to understand that patients achieving better hearing with a well-fitted hearing aid and good SDS performance before surgery may be good candidates for CI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To present a case of neuroretinitis following an mRNA COVID-19 vaccination. A 78-year-old healthy woman was presented with blurry vision in her left eye 1 day after receiving the third dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. The ocular examination revealed an optic disc swelling and retinal thickening of the macula with subretinal fluid in the left eye. The fluorescein angiography revealed hyperfluorescence of the left optic disc. The neuroretinitis resolved gradually after taking azithromycin and prednisolone orally. This is the first report of unilateral neuroretinitis following COVID-19 vaccination, implying a potential association between the mRNA vaccine and neuroretinitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taxanes are important chemotherapeutic agents used to manage breast cancer and gynaecological malignancies. However, ovarian toxicity induced by the taxane docetaxel (DOC) is of great concern. We investigated DOC-induced toxicity in the ovaries of female CD1 strain mice. The mice were divided into control (saline), DOC-5 (5 mg/kg DOC), and DOC-10 (10 mg/kg DOC) groups and administered saline or DOC on the first day of the study and two weeks later. Two weeks after the second dose, the ovaries were removed for analysis after inducing superovulation. Ovary weight, the number of secondary follicles, and the total number of follicles were reduced after DOC administration. Additionally, the expression levels of caspase-3 and the pro-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 interacting mediator of cell death (BIM) increased. Our findings suggest that high-dose DOC induces damage to growing follicles; however, it may not affect primordial follicles. What is already known on this subject? Docetaxel (DOC) is one of the most effective chemotherapeutic agents used to manage various cancers. Some in-vitro studies have examined paclitaxel-induced ovarian toxicity; however, limited research on DOC is available. What do the results of this study add? We investigated DOC-induced ovarian toxicity in female CD1 strain mice at 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg. We found that DOC reduced ovary weight, the number of secondary follicles, and the total number of follicles, with the higher dose having a higher effect. What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? We believe that our study makes a significant contribution to the knowledge about the effect of DOC on ovarian function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantile regression predicts the τ-quantile of the conditional distribution of a response variable given the explanatory variable for τ ∈ (0, 1). The aim of this paper is to establish the asymptotic distribution of the quantile estimator obtained by penalized spline method. A simulation and an exploration of real data are performed concerned with our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we developed a snake robot composed of fins and a drill to excavate and move underground. In addition, we proposed a method of underground motion using a robot. The underground motion is divided into anchoring and drilling motions. The anchoring motion fixes the robot by anchoring the fins attached to its sides on the tunnel wall using articulated motions. This anchoring motion is required to withstand the reaction forces during the drilling motion and propel the robot. The snake robot has multiple joints; thus it can have various shapes. By changing the shape of the robot, it can accommodate itself to change the tunnel diameter. The drilling motion creates a forward space using the robot's drilling unit. This motion uses the front as well as the sides of the drill for efficient excavation. This reduces the number of insertions and removals, thereby decreasing excavation time. The effectiveness of the anchoring and drilling motions was tested using the robot in an environment simulating an underground tunnel. It was confirmed that the robot could fix, excavate, and withstand reaction forces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Janus kinase 1 inhibitor upadacitinib is therapeutically effective for atopic dermatitis (AD). However, predictive factors for high responders to upadacitinib have not been established in real-world clinical practice. Objectives: To identify predictive factors for responders to upadacitinib 15mg or 30mg, defined as achievers of investigator’s global assessment (IGA) 0/1 with ≥ 2-point improvement from basal IGA. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted from August 2021 to July 2023 on 159 AD patients treated with upadacitinib 15mg and 52 patients with 30mg. Patients in each group were categorized into responders (achievers of IGA 0/1 at week 12) and non-responders (non-achievers). We compared baseline values of clinical and laboratory parameters between responders and non-responders. Logistic regression analysis was used to detect variables predicting responders. Receiver-operating characteristic curves were used for evaluating prediction capabilities of the variables. Results: In logistic regression analysis, responders to 15mg upadacitinib were associated with lower total EASI and higher age whereas responders to 30mg were associated with lower LDH and lower IgE. Conclusions: Lower total EASI and higher age may predict responders to upadacitinib 15mg while lower IgE and lower LDH may predict responders to 30mg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Though Janus kinase inhibitors such as upadacitinib rapidly relieve itch in atopic dermatitis (AD) patients, how early itch relief impacts later skin clearance is not examined. Objectives: This study aims to determine if early itch relief by upadacitinib could predict complete skin clearance in later phases. Methods: This retrospective study involved 105 patients with moderate-to-severe AD treated with upadacitinib 15mg/day. Eczema area and severity index (EASI), atopic dermatitis control tool, and achievement rate of EASI 100 were evaluated at weeks 4, 12, and 24. The threshold of early peak pruritus-numerical rating scale (PP-NRS) predicting later skin clearance was assessed by area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve, and predictors for EASI 100 achievement were determined by logistic regression analysis. Results: The rate of achieving EASI 100 at week 24 was extremely higher in patients who achieved week 2 PP-NRS ≤ 1 (42.9%) than in non-achievers (1.4%). The logistic regression analysis showed that the achievement of week 2 PP-NRS ≤ 1 and low body mass index were associated with achievement of EASI 100 at weeks 12 and 24. Conclusions: The achievement of week 2 PP-NRS ≤ 1 may predict later skin clearance in upadacitinib treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To enhance the effectiveness of formative assessment and self-regulated learning, this study focused on evaluative judgement. A process for developing evaluative judgement and co-regulation had proposed. However, this co-regulation and evaluative judgement model lacks validation for use in classroom settings; the process of developing evaluative judgement remains unclear. Thus, this study aims to examine the processes of co-regulation and development of evaluative judgement by applying the co-regulation and evaluative judgement model in a Japanese elementary school. We confirmed that evaluative judgements are shared with students through co-regulation and that both evaluative judgements and learning outcomes are enhanced. The results support the co-regulation and evaluative judgement model and partially reveal the process of the development of evaluative judgement. Evaluative judgements are expected to expand the effectiveness of formative assessment and self-regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human–macaque conflict occurs in urban areas that overlap with habitats of monkeys. Improving awareness among residents regarding appropriate control measures is essential for conflict mitigation, but only a few studies have examined the reluctance of residents to engage in preparedness behaviors. We examined the reluctance of residents to apply prevention measures against wildlife damage. We evaluated the structural relationships among three factors related to behaviors of natural disaster preparedness – place attachment, damage risk, and outcome expectations – using covariance-based structural equation modeling. We conducted risk estimation based on radio-tracking data and a questionnaire to examine the effects of these factors on preparedness behaviors. Results showed an increased reluctance among residents with poor place attachment and low expectations toward the efficacy of preventive measures. To further facilitate preparedness behaviors, it is necessary to strengthen the attachment of residents to their communities and continue communicating the appropriate preparedness behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic eczematous disease with severe pruritus. Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, upadacitinib, baricitinib, and abrocitinib, are systemic treatments for AD. The outcomes of switching from one JAK inhibitor to another have not been examined. We assessed the outcomes of switching from baricitinib 4 mg to upadacitinib 30 mg in Japanese patients with moderate-to-severe AD. Twenty patients treated with baricitinib 4 mg, showing insufficient response or adverse events, were switched to treatment with upadacitinib 30 mg. We evaluated total eczema area and severity index (EASI), EASI at head and neck, trunk, upper, or lower limbs, EASI of erythema, edema/papulation, excoriation, or lichenification, and peak pruritus numerical-rating scale (PP-NRS) at baseline (start of baricitinib), weeks 0 (time of switching), and 4 and 12 after switching. Total EASI, EASI at each anatomical site, EASI of each clinical sign, and PP-NRS were markedly reduced at weeks 4 or 12 compared to week 0. Achievement rates of more than 75% or 90% reduction of EASI from baseline significantly improved after switching. Switching from baricitinib 4 mg to upadacitinib 30 mg effectively improved rash and pruritus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Listening difficulties (LiD) present difficulties in listening and paying attention to spoken information despite normal pure tone audiometry. Endolymphatic hydrops (EH) is a common inner ear condition associated with Ménière's disease but may also be present in the asymptomatic ear. Using magnetic resonance imaging, we investigated EH in patients with LiD and assessed whether the severity of EH was related to the results of auditory processing tests (APTs). 111 patients with no abnormalities on pure tone audiometry, but displaying difficulties in listening, underwent evaluation through APTs and questionnaires. Upon obtaining informed consent, the inner ears of 20 consenting patients were evaluated utilizing a 3-Tesla magnetic resonance imaging. A higher percentage of patients diagnosed with LiD by APTs had significant EH in the cochlea and vestibule than in previously reported control cases. The percentage of correct answers in the speech-in-noise test was significantly lower in patients with than in those without significant EH. In this study, significant EH of the cochlea was associated with poor listening to noise. The presence of EH affects the functioning of the auditory processing system, even in ears that test normally on standard audiometric tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to identify the formulation differences of groups in two online activities in a university course with different strategies by using social network analysis. Specifically, the connections within the members and identification of brokers were analyzed. Whilst the group enhancing a "community of practice" in WeChat by assigned posting showed larger evolution on the social graph, it lacked active involvement of students' friends and structural holes and their diameter were shown to increase towards the end. Another group enhancing a "personal knowledge network" in Twitter by their free posting showed no ties with any social actors, implying a cold-start and problems of sparsity in the social communication. From the discussion about brokers, we concluded similar future needs to develop their social skills to promote itinerant and liaison brokers to evolve learning groups socially. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive flood flow over the historic diversion weir in the vegetated Asahi River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan, was recently recorded for the first time after its renovation work. Fluvial researchers analysed the diversion discharge for flood mitigation measures through laboratory studies and conventional two-dimensional (2-D) depth-averaged simulations. The existing model was insufficient for simulation of certain phenomena such as flow resistance caused by vegetation branches and leaves and vertical flow distribution around the river corridor. Therefore, we developed a three-dimensional (3-D) vegetation resistance porous model by estimating topography, land cover, and vegetation distribution from airborne light detection and ranging (LiDAR) topo-bathymetry (ALB) data. Results show that the water level and flow regime were more reproducible than by referenced 2-D calculations when compared to space-time image velocimetry (STIV) data and field measurements. The diversion discharge designed using the proposed model is feasible with the current riverbed and vegetation conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various complications of arterial embolisation (AE) for postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) are reported. Endometritis (EM) frequently causes abscesses, increasing hysterectomy risk. However, risk factors for EM after AE for PPH are unclear. We explored these risk factors. We included patients who underwent AE for PPH in our hospital from 2005 to 2020 and compared those who did (EM group) and did not develop EM after AE (non-EM group) in a case-control study. Twenty patients met the study criteria; eight patients (40%) had EM. There were no differences in risk factors between groups involved in infection, such as premature rupture of membranes. However, the contrast medium extravasation rate on computed tomography scans before the AE procedure was significantly higher in the EM group (p=.019) compared to the non-EM group. The greatest EM risk factor was contrast medium extravasation before AE for PPH, determined by classification and regression tree modelling (relative risk: 4.5). What is already known on this subject? Reportedly, the clinical success rate of arterial embolisation (AE) for critical haemorrhage in obstetrics is high, around 90%. However, information regarding AE complications is limited. Endometritis is one of these complications, which not only causes prolonged hospitalisation but may also require further treatment, such as hysterectomy. However, the incidence rate and risk factors for EM remain unknown. What do the results of this study add? In this study, 40.0% of patients developed EM after AE for PPH. Extravasation of contrast medium was the top risk factor (relative risk: 4.5 compared to those without EM, p=.019). The second-leading risk factor was a bleeding volume greater than 2500 mL (relative risk: 4.5 compared to those without EM, p=.019). What are the implications of these findings for future clinical practice and/or future research? We created an EM prediction model using extravasation and a bleeding volume greater than 2500 mL. The model was 87.5% sensitive and 66.7% specific. This prediction model allows for the early detection and treatment of EM by recognising high-risk patients and providing intensive postpartum management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic sleep disorders (CSD) comprise a potential risk factor for metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, obesity and stroke. Thus, the identification of biomarkers for CSD is an important step in the early prevention of metabolic dysfunctions induced by sleep dysfunction. Diagnostic saliva samples can be easily and noninvasively collected. Thus, we aimed to identify whole microRNA (miRNA) profiles of saliva in control and psychophysiologically stressed CSD mouse models and compare them at Zeitgeber time (ZT) 0 (lights on) and ZT12 (lights off). The findings of two-way ANOVA revealed that the expression of 342 and 109 salivary miRNAs was affected by CSD and the time of day, respectively. Interactions were found in 122 miRNAs among which, we identified 197 (ZT0) and 62 (ZT12) upregulated, and 40 (ZT0) and seven (ZT12) downregulated miRNAs in CSD mice. We showed that miR-30c-5p, which is elevated in the plasma of patients with hypersomnia, was upregulated in the saliva of CSD mice collected at ZT0. The miRNAs, miR-10a-5p, miR-146b-5p, miR-150-5p, and miR-25-3p are upregulated in the serum of humans with poor sleep quality, and these were also upregulated in the saliva of CSD mice collected at ZT0. The miRNAs miR-30c, miR146b-5p, miR150, and miR-25-5p are associated with cardiovascular diseases, and we found that plasma concentrations of brain natriuretic peptides were significantly increased in CSD mice. The present findings showed that salivary miRNA profiles could serve as useful biomarkers for predicting CSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a case of bullous keratopathy complicated with cytomegalovirus (CMV) corneal endotheliitis that was successfully treated with ripasudil eye drops. A retrospective case report. A 65-year-old female patient diagnosed with CMV-associated anterior uveitis in the right eye was referred to us when anterior uveitis recurred with bullous keratopathy. Initial best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.4 (decimal visual acuity). Her condition did not improve with anti-CMV treatment, and BCVA decreased to 0.07. At this point, intraocular pressure (IOP) was 20 mmHg, and ripasudil eye drops were started for IOP control. After 1 month, not only had IOP decreased to 14 mm Hg but the condition of the corneal edema had also improved. The central corneal thickness decreased to a normal level, and the BCVA recovered to 0.8. Ripasudil eye drops not only lower IOP in patients with CMV corneal endotheliitis but may also have the potential to treat bullous keratopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neck pain is a common manifestation of musculoskeletal disorders of the cervical and thoracic spine. Manual therapy interventions to the thoracic spine are recommended for treating patients with several types of neck pain. However, only a few studies have investigated the thoracic spine mobility associated with neck movement. Compare cervical and upper thoracic rotation angles in subjects with and without neck pain. The subjects included nine individuals who experienced neck pain (pain, Group P) and 11 who did not (non-pain, Group N). The rotation angle was measured using MRI. The imaging limb position was at 90% of the maximum neck rotation. The MR images were analyzed using image analysis software to calculate the rotation angle of C1 to Th3. The rotation angle of the segment was then calculated by subtracting the rotation angle corresponding to the lower vertebra from that corresponding to the upper vertebra. The total rotation of each segment was calculated as the sum of the right and left rotation angle. Then, the segmental rotation angles were compared between groups. The rotation angles of C3-C4, C7-Th1, and Th1-Th2 were significantly smaller in Group P than in Group N, and C5-C6 and C6-C7 were significantly larger in Group P than in Group N. There was no statistical difference in rotational angle at all other spinal levels measured. The results of this study indicate subjects with neck pain had hypermobility of the lower cervical spine and hypomobility of the cervico-thoracic junction and upper thoracic spine compared with subjects without neck pain. These results add to current understanding of biomechanical factors that may be related to neck pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper examines the emotions of 15 learners of Japanese across seven weekly online text chats in Japanese with native Japanese speakers, and the factors that caused their emotions. The data came from questionnaires about the learners' biodata and previous experiences of text chats, weekly reports about their chats, transcripts of the chats, and occasional questions in e-mail exchanges between the researcher and the learners to clarify certain statements in the weekly reports. The learners' positive and negative emotions and the causes of those emotions were coded and counted for descriptive quantitative analysis. The learners reported both positive and negative emotions within each individual chat as well as across the seven weeks. Enjoyment was the most frequently occurring of the positive emotions, while a sense of difficulty was most often reported among the negative emotions. Both positive and negative emotions changed over the seven weeks. The chat process and issues with the Japanese language tended to be triggers for negative emotions, with positive emotions likely to be triggered by the chat partners, and also by discussions of hobbies, similar interests and culture. It would appear to be important for learners to develop a rapport with their partner through chat communications and to avoid focusing too much on their own limited foreign language proficiency in order to increase their positive emotions in online text chats, thus improving the experience and leading to greater learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine normal corneal eccentricity in a rural Japanese population and to examine factors associated with eccentricity value. This used data from the Locomotive Syndrome and Health Outcome in Aizu Cohort Study (LOHAS) project between 2009 and 2012. Residents of Minamiaizu and Tadami in Fukushima, Japan, who were aged 40 years or over, were invited for a comprehensive eye examination. For 1371 patients with no history of internal eye surgery, corneal eccentricity was measured using a Pentacam. Of 1371 people recruited to the study, 1215 (1215 eyes) met the inclusion criteria. The overall mean eccentricity was 0.46 (SD = 0.18; range, −0.85 to 0.88). Corneal eccentricity was significantly associated with age, spherical equivalent, pupil diameter, anterior chamber angle, anterior chamber volume, and central corneal thickness, but not with gender or body mass index. In this study, the normal cornea in this Japanese population was prolate. Corneal eccentricity was likely to decrease with increasing age. Also, spherical equivalent and other anterior segment parameters had an influence on corneal eccentricity. Corneal eccentricity measurements might be helpful in the diagnosis of corneal diseases and in calculations for intraocular lens implantation and corneal refractive surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microsatellite instability (MSI)-high status is associated with good responsiveness to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Although MSI-high status has been actively investigated in pediatric brain tumors, studies of other pediatric solid tumors are lacking. Among 334 consecutive pediatric patients with solid tumors, we retrospectively analyzed formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor tissues of 36 of 74 patients (49%) who died of disease. We assessed the MSI status in these tissues using five multiplexed markers. The results revealed that none of the patients had an MSI-high status. These results indicate that MSI-high status is a rare event in pediatric patients with refractory/relapsed solid tumors. Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/08880018.2021.1998266 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a histology-free description of the eumonostiliferous hoplonemertean Tetrastemma parallelos sp. nov. based on a single specimen dredged from a depth between 11 and 18 m off Kouyatsu, Tateyama, Chiba, Japan. Dorsally, T. parallelos sp. nov. is characterised by the presence of two orange-pigmented parallel lines in addition to a reddish cephalic patch. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on partial sequences of 16S, 18S, 28S rRNA, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), and histone H3 gene markers along with sequences of 20 Tetrastemma species available in public databases confirmed that our species belongs to a clade recently proposed as the Asian–Australian Pacific subclade of the genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An accurate observational dataset of the size-resolved concentration of mineral dust particles in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and cryosphere is needed for investigating the effect of mineral dust on the climate with earth system models. However, automated measurements of dust particles remain challenging due to the complexities of the physicochemical properties (e.g., shape and mineralogy) of individual dust particles and the difficulties in discriminating dust from other particulate components (e.g., black carbon). Here, we suggest the use of complex forward-scattering amplitude data obtained by the single particle extinction and scattering (SPES) method as a low-cost optical approach for identification and quantification of silicate (aluminosilicates + quartz) particles, the major particulate component of desert dust. We focus here on the submicron particle-size range to challenge the robust identification of wavelength or smaller scale dust solely according to the principle of elastic light scattering. The two-dimensional nature of the complex scattering amplitude data allows us to identify silicate-dominant particles in waterborne dust samples and discriminate them from light-absorbing particulate components (e.g., hematite). We demonstrate that the two-dimensional dataspace of the complex amplitude allows an accurate retrieval of the particle-size distribution of silicate particles thanks to the simultaneous retrieval of the particle's effective refractive index. We discuss some notable differences in our results from those retrieved from conventional elastic light scattering approaches. Copyright © 2022 American Association for Aerosol Research [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unilateral spatial neglect (USN) may lead to poor functional rehabilitation outcomes. However, studies investigating the rehabilitation outcomes of right-sided USN are lacking. We aimed to investigate (1) the clinical impacts of USN, including right-sided USN, for stroke patients in sub-acute rehabilitation, and (2) evaluate the differences in clinical characteristics and rehabilitation outcomes between right- and left-sided USN patients. We retrospectively screened the medical records of 297 inpatients at the Tokyo-Bay Rehabilitation Hospital who experienced a cerebrovascular accident with supratentorial lesions between January 1st, 2014 and December 31st, 2016. We performed independent multiple regression analysis in patients with left and right hemisphere damage. The Behavioral Inattention Test was a significant independent variable for predicting the motor, cognitive, and total functional independence measure (FIM), compared to the Stroke Impairment Assessment Set and Mini-Mental State Examination. USN affects motor FIM recovery more than cognitive FIM recovery regardless of the damaged hemisphere. Our study results confirm that both right- and left-sided USN influence the functional recovery of stroke patients. USN occurs, slightly less frequently, following a left hemisphere stroke. However, USN negatively affected rehabilitation outcomes, regardless of the neglected side. Therefore, USN treatment is necessary for patients with left and right hemisphere damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the fall of 2009 and in the spring of 2012, supported by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) in the National Institutes of Health (NIH), we designed a course "Phylogenetic Analysis and Molecular Evolution" (PAME), the first cross-listed course across three different colleges (College of Arts and Sciences, College of Engineering, and College of Agriculture). This course was the first at the author's university. The course will be made available to graduate students and advanced undergraduate students in biology and computer science, and undergraduate student in statistics and mathematics at regional universities and colleges. The graduate students will learn how to gather sequence data, use bioinformatics tools, and analyze biological data using mathematics and statistics throughout the project. In this paper, we propose an online course on PAME facilitated with the statistical software RStudio on Amazon Web Service (AWS). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, transcanal endoscopic ear surgery (TEES) is known as an innovative and minimally invasive surgery. To clarify the usefulness of TEES for the ossicular malformation, we performed a retrospective study. We examined cases of ossicular malformation performed using TEES at our hospital between April 2015 and April 2020. The hearing level results were countable for 16 cases. Post-operative hearing levels were significantly improved. Transient nausea, tongue paralysis, and taste disorders were observed; however, no other complications were observed. In 2015–2018, some of the cases required the assistance of a surgical microscope. In contrast, all the cases were performed by TEES after 2019 using a powered device to curve the canal. TEES requires considerable training, and the sensation of depth is difficult to acquire. However, this less invasive method is also helpful for ossicular malformation cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In previous research, an analysis model named the 'beam on Vlasov foundation model' was proposed to theoretically analyze the compliance and energy release rate of sandwich single cantilever beam (SCB) test specimens. The validity of the analytical model was confirmed when it was applied to sandwich specimens with homogeneous cores. In this study, the analysis model is applied to the analysis of a sandwich SCB test specimen where the Young's modulus of the core varies along the thickness direction. The procedures to obtain the solution for two specific cases are described. One is the case that the Young's modulus of the core varies in the thickness direction as an exponential function. The other is the case that the Young's modulus of the core varies as a combination of exponential functions which is symmetric with respect to the midplane of the core. By comparing with finite element analysis, it is confirmed that the beam analysis model can provide reliable results even when the core is inhomogeneous in the thickness direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This real-world study examined the prevalence of programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) expression and assessed the frequency of microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) status and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) positivity in Japanese patients with advanced gastric and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma. This multicenter (5 sites), retrospective, observational study (November 2018–March 2019) evaluated Japanese patients with advanced gastric and GEJ adenocarcinoma after surgical resection (Stage II/III at initial diagnosis) or unresectable advanced cancer (Stage IV). The primary objectives were prevalence of PD-L1 expression (combined positive score [CPS] ≥1), MSI status, and EBV positivity. Tumor specimens of 389/391 patients were analyzed (male, 67.1%; mean age, 67.6 ± 12.2 years); 241/389 (62%) were PD-L1 positive, 24/379 (6.3%) had MSI-H tumors, and 13/389 (3.3%) were EBV positive. PD-L1 expression was higher in tumor-infiltrating immune cells than in tumor cells for lower CPS cutoffs. Among patients with MSI-H tumors and EBV-positive tumors, 19/24 (79.2%) and 9/13 (69.2%), respectively, were PD-L1 positive. A greater proportion of patients with MSI-H tumors (83.3% [20/24]) were PD-L1 positive than those with MSI-low/stable tumors (60.8% [216/355]; p =.0297); similarly, an association was observed between history of H pylori infection and PD-L1 expression. A higher proportion of patients with MSI-H tumors demonstrated PD-L1 expression with a CPS ≥10 (66.7% [16/24]) vs those with MSI-low/stable tumors (24.8% [88/355]; p <.0001). The prevalence of PD-L1 positivity among Japanese patients was comparable to that in previous pembrolizumab clinical trials and studies in gastric cancer. Particularly, higher PD-L1 expression was observed in MSI-H tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Japan has one of the highest asthma prevalence rates in Asia; however, there is a lack of epidemiological studies on asthma among children in Japan. This study aimed to describe the severity of asthma and the prescription patterns for its treatment among pediatric patients, by using a large-scale claims database. The analysis datasets were extracted from the JMDC database for the period of April 1, 2009 to March 30, 2015; included records were restricted to patients between 2 and 15 years of age. The Japanese Pediatric Guidelines for the treatment and management of asthma (JPGL) steps were used as a proxy for asthma treatment and severity. We also described the characteristics of asthma in children by stratifying the prevalence and incidence cohorts by index years. In the prevalence cohort (56% male), from 2010 to 2014, approximately 80–90% of the children received step 1 or 2 treatment, with the remainder receiving step 3 or 4 treatment, as defined by the JPGL. The majority (approximately 90%) of patients visited clinics for asthma treatment, while a minority visited hospitals. Our study showed the severity of asthma among Japanese pediatric patients, as well as their demographic characteristics, using a large-scale claims database. The majority of pediatric asthma patients received treatment for mild-to-moderate asthma, while less than 10% received treatment for severe asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Porphyromonas gulae, a major periodontal pathogen in animals, possesses fimbriae that have been classified into three genotypes (A, B, C) based on the diversity of fimA genes encoding fimbrillin protein (FimA). P. gulae strains with type C fimbriae were previously shown to be more virulent than other types. In this study, we further examined the host toxicity mediated by P. gulae fimbriae by constructing recombinant FimA (rFimA) expression vectors for each genotype and raised antibodies to the purified proteins. Methods and Results: All larvae died within 204 h following infection with P. gulae type C at the low-dose infection, whereas type A and B did not. Among fimA types, the survival rates of the larvae injected with rFimA type C were remarkably decreased, while the survival rates of the larvae injected with rFimA type A and type B were greater than 50%. Clindamycin treatment inhibited the growth of type C strains in a dose-dependent manner, resulting in an increased rate of silkworm survival. Finally, type C rFimA-specific antiserum prolonged the survival of silkworm larvae stimulated by infection with P. gulae type C strain or injection of rFimA type C protein. Conclusion: These results suggested that type C fimbriae have high potential for enhancement of bacterial pathogenesis, and that both clindamycin and anti-type C rFimA-specific antibodies are potent inhibitors of type C fimbriae-induced toxicity. This is the first report to establish a silkworm infection model using P. gulae for toxicity assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is an autoimmune subepidermal blistering disease. Although several cases of BP in end-stage renal disease patients receiving peritoneal dialysis (PD) or hemodialysis have been reported, the incidence of BP in these patients remains unknown. We recently experienced three PD patients diagnosed with BP. The skin injury was likely to be a trigger of BP in all the three PD patients. Nifedipine and icodextrin exposures were possible factors directly or indirectly affecting the onset of BP, because they were common in the three cases. We also report that the incidence of BP in PD patients was 3/478.3 person-years in a single-center 10-year study. This case series with a literature survey describes that the skin and tissue injuries are potential triggers responsible for the onset of BP in dialysis patients and that the incidence of BP in these patients seems to be much higher than that in the general population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine the injury profile of Japanese university handball players. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 1017 participants who played in the 2018 Japanese National University Handball Championship were followed. The incidence within the previous year was 0.59 [95% CI, confidence interval: 0.56–0.62] per player per year. The ankle (33.3%), knee (23.6%), and shoulder/clavicle (12.6%) were the body regions most affected by traumatic mechanisms, while the lumbar spine/lower back (26.0%), knee (15.7%), and shoulder (15.0%) were the body regions most affected by overuse mechanisms. Sprain (30.7%), ligamentous rupture (23.2%), and fracture (11.8%) were the main types of traumatic injuries, and stress fracture (25.0%) and lesion of meniscus or cartilage (25.0%) were the main types of overuse injuries. Female players were 1.5 times more likely (OR, odds ratio: 1.55 [95% CI: 1.20–2.01]) to experience an injury than their male counterparts, and line players were also 1.5 times more likely (OR: 1.49 [95% CI: 1.00–2.21]) to experience an injury than their wing counterparts. This study showed that there is a need for increased injury prevention efforts in Japanese handball, especially among female players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Otological diseases including Meniere's disease (MD) involve endolymphatic hydrops (EH), which can be visualized by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with gadolinium contrast agents, but the temporal changes of contrast in the inner ear have not been evaluated. We investigated the permeability of the blood–perilymph barrier (BPB) in ears with EH to evaluate the severity of the inner ear disturbances. The study included 32 ears from 16 patients with EH or related diseases who underwent MRI. The permeability of the BPB was assessed by the signal–intensity ratio (SIR) at four-time points: before and at 10 min, 4 h, and 24 h after administration of gadolinium for assessing EH. Cochlear EH was found in 25 of the 32 ears, and vestibular EH in 11. The rate of EH was significantly higher in symptomatic ears; however, the existence of EH was not related to SIR values. Nevertheless, SIR values in the basal turn were significantly higher 4 and 24 h after injection of gadolinium in patients aged ≥50 years. Higher SIR values observed in older patients with EH indicate severe disturbances of the BPB in the cochlea, which may account for intractable inner ear disturbances in older patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sit-to-stand motion is an important daily activity, and it is important to study the mechanism of the motion to improve the ability when it becomes weak. To study the mechanism, we hypothesized that muscle synergy generates muscle activity as a feedforward signal, which is modified by sensory input. This study focuses on determining the sensory input primarily used for modifying sit-to-stand motion. To obtain this, we built artificial neural network models that generate muscle activities based on sensory input and feedforward signals and analyzed the effect of each input on the output. The models were built for each motion phase. The input was information from vestibular and somatosensory input and averaged muscle synergy as feedforward signals, and the output was muscle synergy. As a result, it was revealed that humans may primarily use hip angle to bend forward, ankle and vertical foot reaction force to hip rise, ankle, knee, and lumber angles and vertical foot reaction force to extend body, and lumber angle to stabilize. This indicates the type of sensory input used to control each muscle synergy in each motion phase. The information should be used to modify the sit-to-stand motion in environmental conditions where the motion is performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]