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Objective To identify the risk factors for severe diverticular bleeding in an elderly population. Methods Using a comprehensive computerized hospital database, severe and non-severe diverticular bleeding cases were compared for 19 factors: the age, sex, body mass index, comorbid conditions (hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, and chronic renal failure, including those undergoing dialysis), history of diverticular bleeding, use of low-dose aspirin, use of antiplatelet agent besides aspirin, use of anticoagulant agent, use of prednisolone, use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, use of cyclooxygenase-2 selective inhibitors, changes in vital signs, hypoalbuminemia, bilateral diverticula, identification of bleeding lesion, and rebleeding. Severe bleeding was defined as the need for blood transfusion, emergency surgery, or vascular embolization. Patients A total of 258 patients were admitted for lower gastrointestinal bleeding between August 2010 and July 2020, among whom 120 patients over 65 years old diagnosed with diverticular bleeding were included in this study. Results Fifty-one patients (43%) had severe diverticular bleeding. Independent risk factors for severe diverticular bleeding were as follows: change in vital signs [odds ratio (OR), 5.23; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.9-14.4; p=0.0014], hypoalbuminemia (OR, 12.3; 95% CI, 1.97-77.3; p=0.0073), bilateral diverticula (OR, 3.47; 95% CI, 1.33-9.02; p=0.011), and rebleeding (OR, 5.92; 95% CI, 2.21-15.8; p0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.79 after cross validation. Conclusion Severe diverticular bleeding in elderly population may be predicted by changes in their vital signs, hypoalbuminemia, bilateral diverticula, and rebleeding.

Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum L., JSA) is seriously damaged by a ringspot disease in Japan. Herein, to determine the causal agent using high-throughput sequencing, we discovered viral RNAs associated with JSA ringspot disease. We then determined the complete or near-complete nucleotide sequences of these RNAs using Sanger sequencing and RACE. The complementary strand of viral RNAs 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 encoded a single protein, which shared sequence identity with P1 (RNA-dependent RNA polymerase), P2 (glycoprotein precursor), P3 (nucleocapsid protein), P4 (movement protein), and a protein with unknown function of emaraviruses (genus Emaravirus), respectively; however, the highest amino acid sequence identity for the P1–P5 proteins between JSARaV and known emaraviruses was 41.9%, 30.0%, 30.1%, 52.2%, and 38.0%, respectively, all of which were lower than the species demarcation criterion. Furthermore, RNA segments harbored conserved 12-nt terminal sequences at the 5′- and 3′-termini, and a high complementarity of approximately 20 nt in 5′- and 3′-terminal sequences. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the presence of virus-like particles. JSA ringspot disease was found to be transmitted by an eriophyid mite (subclass Acari, superfamily Eriophyoidea) that belongs to the family Diptilomiopidae. Taken together, these results identified the virus responsible for the ringspot disease of JSA as a new member of the genus, Emaravirus, which we named as the Japanese star anise ringspot-associated virus (JSARaV). Moreover, this is the first report noting that eriophyid mites of the family Diptilomiopidae are capable of transmitting emaravirus.

An attenuated mutant strain of melon yellow spot virus (MYSV), an Orthotospovirus, designated as SA08-8, was obtained from a pathogenic isolate, C95S, via high temperature treatment, single local lesion isolation, and serial mechanical inoculation. Under greenhouse conditions, the SA08-8 strain conferred the cross-protection against wild-type MYSV but it was not transmissible by its known natural vector melon thrips. In SA08-8 genome, a total of 16 amino acid substitutions were found in the genes encoding RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, glycoprotein precursor, and nonstructural S protein. This attenuated mutant strain is a potential biocontrol agent for MYSV-induced crop diseases in the field.

Fecal impaction is the impaired excretion of a large fecal mass, and mild cases are treated by enema and osmotic laxatives. However, treatment-resistant cases need more invasive alternatives. A woman in her 60s presented with abdominal discomfort. Her abdomen was soft and without tenderness. Computed tomography revealed a large mass of feces in her sigmoid colon and no intestinal dilatation proximal to the mass. Endoscopy confirmed a fecal mass occupying the lumen. A glycerin enema, oral administration of polyethylene glycol, and enteral administration of amidotrizoic acid during colonoscopy were ineffective. We maneuvered a guidewire to form a loop at the tip of an endoscope, with which we subdivided the mass for successful removal. The patient’s abdominal discomfort disappeared immediately. Endoscopic disimpaction is far less invasive than surgery and should be considered when treating fecal impaction cases, without severe obstructive colitis, which are nonresponsive to conservative treatment.

Safe vaccination worldwide is critical to end the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We aimed to evaluate adverse reactions to vaccination using a web-based questionnaire and examine the risk factors for the occurrence of immunisation stress-related response (ISRR).We conducted a questionnaire survey using Google Form® among the employees of St. Marianna University Hospital who had received the COVID-19 vaccine between April 2021 and May 2021, 1 week after the first and second vaccinations. We developed and used a questionnaire to identify individuals with ISRR according to the World Health Organization diagnostic criteria. A generalised linear mixed model was constructed with ISRR onset as the dependent variable, subjects as the random factor, and each parameter as a fixed factor. A multivariate model was constructed using the forced imputation method with factors that were significant in the univariate analysis.We enrolled 2,073 and 1,856 respondents in the first and second questionnaire surveys, respectively. Fifty-five and 33 ISRR cases were identified in the first and second vaccinations, respectively. In the univariate analysis, strong pre-vaccination anxiety (odds ratio [OR], 2.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.30-4.12, p = 0·004) and history of allergy (OR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.14-2.24, p = 0·007) were significant risk factors. Multivariate analysis also showed that strong pre-vaccination anxiety (OR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.15-3.80, p = 0.016) and history of allergy (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.09-2.15, p = 0.014) were significant risk factors.Confirmation of allergy prior to vaccination and subsequent action are essential for addressing ISRR.

This study constructed a simplified post-endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) prediction model with a prognostic nutritional index (PNI). A total of 449 patients who underwent gastric ESD was included, divided with a ratio of 2:1, and assigned to the model or validation cohort. A prediction model of post-ESD (modified BEST-J score) was constructed using the model cohort. The modified BEST-J score was evaluated by comparing its accuracy to the BEST-J score in the validation cohort. Within 4 weeks of ESD, melena, hematemesis, or a 2 g/dL or greater decrease in hemoglobin level that required esophagogastroduodenoscopy was defined as post-ESD bleeding. In the model cohort, 299 patients were enrolled and 25 (8.4%) had post-ESD bleeding. Independent risk factors for post-ESD bleeding were use of P2Y12RA, tumor size > 30 mm, location of lesion at lower one-third of the stomach, and PNI ≤ 47.9. Constructing the modified BEST-J score based on these variables, the sensitivity, specificity, and positive likelihood ratio were 73.9%, 78.1%, and 3.37. When comparing the modified BEST-J score to the BEST-J score in the validation cohort, no significant difference was observed by ROC-AUC (0.77 vs. 0.75, p = 0.81). Modified BEST-J score can predict post-ESD bleeding more simply, with the same accuracy as the BEST-J score.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate adverse reactions to vaccination using a web-based questionnaire and examine the risk factors for the occurrence of immunization stress-related response (ISRR). Methods: We conducted a questionnaire survey using Google Form® among employees of St. Marianna University Hospital who had received the COVID-19 vaccine between April 2021 and May 2021, 1 week after the first and second vaccinations. We developed and used a questionnaire to identify people with ISRR, according to the WHO diagnostic criteria. A generalized linear mixed model was constructed with ISSR onset as the dependent variable, subjects as the random factor, and each parameter as a fixed factor. A multivariate model was constructed using the forced imputation method with factors that were significant in the univariate analysis. Findings: The number of respondents to the first and second questionnaires were 2,073 and 1,856, respectively. There were 55 and 33 ISRR cases with the first and second vaccinations, respectively. Univariate analysis showed that strong pre-vaccination anxiety (OR, 2·3; 95% CI, 1·30–4·12, p = 0·004) and history of allergy (OR, 1·6; 95% CI, 1·14–2·24, p = 0·007) were significant risk factors. Multivariate analysis also showed that strong pre-vaccination anxiety (OR, 2·1; 95% CI, 1·15–3·80, p = 0·016) and history of allergy (OR, 1·5; 95% CI, 1·09–2·15, p = 0·014) were significant risk factors. Interpretation: Confirmation of allergy prior to vaccination and subsequent action are important for addressing ISRR. Funding: None to declare. Declaration of Interest: None to declare. Ethical Approval: This study was approved by the St. Marianna University School of Medicine Ethics Committee (Approval number: 5261).

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an idiopathic chronic inflammatory disorder affecting the large intestine, which may involve mucosal degeneration. Glycoproteins, mucin2 (MUC2) and the LY6/PLAUR domain containing 8 (LYPD8) are present on the mucous layer of the colon and can hinder the invasion of bacteria, thus contributing to the prevention of colitis. The present study investigated the expression levels of interleukin-8 (IL-8), MUC2 and LYPD8 on the mucous membranes of patients with UC. A total of 18 patients with UC (6 females and 12 males) were examined. Biopsies of the lesions as well as matching normal membranes were obtained and the mRNA expression levels of IL-8, MUC2 and LYPD8 were compared. LYPD8 expression was downregulated in the lesions and the relapsing-remitting subtype of lesions was associated with higher levels of MUC2 expression compared with single attack and chronic lesions subtypes. A positive correlation between Matts' histopathological grade and IL-8, as well as a negative correlation between Matts' histopathological grade and LYPD8 were observed. The expression levels of LYPD8 were lower in highly active lesions and these levels decreased according to the intensity of the mucosal inflammation. Conversely, an increase in MUC2 expression levels may reflect the recovery of the outer mucus layer in the remission phase. Therefore, the examination of MUC2 and LYPD8 expression levels may be useful indicators of mucosal healing in patients with UC.

To develop a wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) device using a photonic crystal (PC), we investigate coupling strength between a circular cavity resonator and a waveguide with various structural parameters. In the WDM device, light signals with various wavelengths generated in different cavity resonators travel through a single waveguide. Careful tuning of the cavity-waveguide coupling is necessary for practical operations, since the light signals must have the same intensities in the waveguide. Carrying out three-dimensional finite-differential time-domain (FDTD) calculations along with photonic bands, we search for the optimum structure for the WDM.

今回、ベトナムの高齢者ケアの現状と課題を明らかにすることを目的に、ハノイ市およびホーチミン市の高齢者ケア施設及び看護系大学を訪問し、高齢者ケアおよび認知症ケアの実態について情報を得る機会を得た。ベトナムの高齢化率は6.74%とまだ低く、経済背景からも家庭で世話をするという概念がみられるが、今後の高齢化社会にむけて、家庭だけでは介護・看護できないことが予測される。また、認知症ケアにおいては、その国の文化背景や認知症に対する考え方が多大に影響する。今回の訪問により、ハノイ市およびホーチミン市においては①高齢者ケア施設の設立、②看護･介護に携わる職員を育てる大学教育の必要性、③働く場所の変化に適応することの必要性が示唆された。

Plant high-affinity K+ (HAK) transporters are divided into four major clusters. Cluster I transporters, in particular, are thought to have high-affinity for K+. Of the 27 HAK genes in rice, eight HAK transporters belong to cluster I. In this study, we investigated the temporal expression patterns during K+ deficiency and K+ transport activity of these eight HAK transporters. The expression of seven HAK genes except OsHAK20 was detected. Expression of OsHAK1, OsHAK5 and OsHAK21 was induced in response to K+ deficiency; however, that of other genes was not. Six of the eight HAK transporters-OsHAK1, OsHAK5, OsHAK19, OsHAK20, OsHAK21, and OsHAK27-complemented the K+-transporter-deficient yeast or bacterial strain. Further, the yeast cells expressing OsHAK1 were more sensitive to Na+ than those expressing OsHAK5. Mutant analysis showed that the high-affinity K+ uptake activity was almost undetectable in oshak1 mutants in a low-K+ medium (0.02 mM). In addition, the high-affinity K+ uptake activity of wild-type plants was inhibited by mild salt stress (20 mM NaCl); however, Na+ permeability of OsHAK1 was not detected in Escherichia coli cells. The high-affinity K+ uptake activity by leaf blades was detected in wild-type plants, while it was not detected in oshak1 mutants. Our results suggest that OsHAK1 and OsHAK5 are the two important components of cluster I corresponding to low-K+ conditions, and that the transport activity of OsHAK1, unlike that of OsHAK5, is sensitive to Na+. Further, OsHAK1 is suggested to involve in foliar K+ uptake.

Plant high-affinity K(+) (HAK) transporters are divided into four major clusters. Cluster I transporters, in particular, are thought to have high-affinity for K(+). Of the 27 HAK genes in rice, eight HAK transporters belong to cluster I. In this study, we investigated the temporal expression patterns during K(+) deficiency and K(+) transport activity of these eight HAK transporters. The expression of seven HAK genes except OsHAK20 was detected. Expression of OsHAK1, OsHAK5 and OsHAK21 was induced in response to K(+) deficiency; however, that of other genes was not. Six of the eight HAK transporters—OsHAK1, OsHAK5, OsHAK19, OsHAK20, OsHAK21, and OsHAK27—complemented the K(+)-transporter-deficient yeast or bacterial strain. Further, the yeast cells expressing OsHAK1 were more sensitive to Na(+) than those expressing OsHAK5. Mutant analysis showed that the high-affinity K(+) uptake activity was almost undetectable in oshak1 mutants in a low-K(+) medium (0.02 mM). In addition, the high-affinity K(+) uptake activity of wild-type plants was inhibited by mild salt stress (20 mM NaCl); however, Na(+) permeability of OsHAK1 was not detected in Escherichia coli cells. The high-affinity K(+) uptake activity by leaf blades was detected in wild-type plants, while it was not detected in oshak1 mutants. Our results suggest that OsHAK1 and OsHAK5 are the two important components of cluster I corresponding to low-K(+) conditions, and that the transport activity of OsHAK1, unlike that of OsHAK5, is sensitive to Na(+). Further, OsHAK1 is suggested to involve in foliar K(+) uptake.

Japan has experienced several severe drought disasters in the past and is still suffering from drought conditions in some parts of the country every year. To cope with the drought disasters, Japan takes three types of countermeasures: (i) water resources planning and development as supply side measures; (ii) promotion of efficient water use as demand side measures; and (iii) coordinated drought risk management as risk control measures. Owing to continuous efforts in water resources development, water saving, and water recycling, drought risk is currently mitigated to some extent. Japan further needs to improve the drought safety level and secure stable water supply.

We applied carbon nanotube (CNT) sheets, which are high-purity and suitable for mass production, to field-emission lamps (FELs) with vacuum-sealed diode structures. Three such FELs were designed and fabricated to correspond to the field-emission characteristics of individual CNT sheets. We suppressed the variation in the anode–cathode voltage to within the range of 5.4–6.0 kV, which contributes to the light output of the FELs. The stabilities of the FELs ranged from −0.65% to 0.26% in the short term; therefore, we confirmed that the high-purity CNT sheets were stable during operation. All FELs could be operated for 500 h without significant degradation, even when the FEL was operated in a passive vacuum instead of a dynamic vacuum.

Rice MTP11 is the trans-Golgi-localized transporter that is involved in Mn tolerance with MTP8.1, and it is required for normal fertility. Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the most manganese (Mn)-tolerant species, and it is able to accumulate high levels of this metal in the leaves without showing toxic symptoms. The metal tolerance protein 8.1 (MTP8.1), a member of the Mn-cation diffusion facilitator (CDF) family, has been shown to play a central role in high Mn tolerance by sequestering Mn into vacuoles. Recently, rice MTP11 was identified as an Mn transporter that is localized to Golgi-associated compartments, but its exact role in Mn tolerance in planta has not yet been understood. Here, we investigated the role of MTP11 in rice Mn tolerance using knockout lines. Old leaves presented higher levels of constitutively expressed MTP11 than other tissues and MTP11 expression was also found in reproductive organs. Fused MTP11:green fluorescent protein was co-localized to trans-Golgi markers and differentiated from other Golgi-associated markers. Knockout of MTP11 in wild-type rice did not affect tolerance and accumulation of Mn and other heavy metals, but knockout in the mtp8.1 mutant showed exacerbated Mn sensitivity at the vegetative growth stage. Knockout of MTP11 alone resulted in decreased grain yield and fertility at the reproductive stage. Thus, MTP11 is a trans-Golgi localized transporter for Mn, which plays a role in Mn tolerance through intracellular Mn compartmentalization. It is also required for maintaining high fertility in rice.

International audience; The relationship between new media and events has increasingly important effects. International expositions (expos), which inspired the opening ceremonies and presentation of medals at the Olympic Games, are considered to be the prototype of national media events. Based on interviews with expo organisers, this study investigated differences in the ways Japan, China, and South Korea utilised information and communication technology (ICT) in their respective 2005, 2010, and 2012 expos. Analysis suggests that the ways these countries organised their expos reflected their respective ICT policies. As such, international expos of the 21st century can be understood as national media events of a new era.

A new iron-based superconductor (Ca,Pr)FeAs2 was discovered. Plate-like crystals of the new phase were obtained and crystal structure was investigated by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The structure was identified as the monoclinic system with space group P21/m, and is composed of two Ca(Pr) planes, anti-fluorite Fe2As2 layers, and As2 zigzag chain layers. Plate-like crystals composed of the new phase showed superconductivity with Tc ~20 K in both magnetization and resistivity measurements.

We demonstrate a simple manipulation of gold nanoparticles that creates a structure-dependent nanometer-scale antenna on the surface of bacteria. Our studies illuminate the concept of the "effective use of light" based on the absorption and emission of light by antennas formed on bacteria.

A patient with severe posterior maxillary hypoplasia was simulated using a 3-dimensional model by rapid prototyping, and segmental vertical distraction osteogenesis was planned to advance the posterior maxillary segment. The bi-directional distractor was adapted to the alveolar ridge and zygomatic buttress. After a 7-day latency period, we started distraction at a rate of 0.35mm every 12h. 12mm of advancement of the posterior maxillary segment was achieved. This distraction osteogenesis using a bi-directional distractor with proper therapeutic planning and good surgical technique will help ensure adequate vector control to predictably regenerate the hard and soft tissues during alveolar distraction.

To confirm the feasibility of our proposed current driven photonic crystal laser diode (PC-LD) used for wavelength division multiplex (WDM) applications, finite difference time domain simulations were performed. We found that the lasing wavelength is linearly increasing when increasing the radius of the circular cavity. In the wavelength range from 1300 to 1320 nm, Q-factors of the cavities are always larger than 7000. These results meet requirements for PC-LD used in WDM applications.

We proposed a novel design of a current-driven photonic crystal (PC) cavity laser using circular resonators. Resonant modes can be varied by adjusting the diameter of the resonator [1]. This feature enables us to realize wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) on a PC structure without using the conventional optical multiplexer. Then we find the requirement of applying the proposed PC cavity lasers to WDM in the 1.3-µm range by calculating the photonic band-gap (PBG) of a GaAs based 2-dimensional (2D) PC structure. According to the simulation result, the filling ratio expressed as r/a (r is the radius of the air holes and a is the lattice constant of the PC structure) should be in a certain range. Furthermore, a regular PC structure with a=340nm meeting the requirement was also successfully fabricated. The simulation and experimental results show the possibility of realizing WDM using our proposed PC cavity lasers.

Neuropathic pain caused by nerve damage in the central and/or peripheral nervous systems is a refractory disorder and the management of such chronic pain has become a major issue. Neurotropin is a drug widely used in Japan and China to treat chronic pain. Although Neurotropin has been demonstrated to suppress chronic pain through the descending pain inhibitory system, the mechanism of analgesic action in the peripheral nervous system remains to be elucidated. In this study, we investigated the local effects of Neurotropin on peripheral nerve damage in a chronic constriction injury (CCI) model. Neurotropin reduced mRNA expressions of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in the sciatic nerve 1 day after the injury. Activation of Erk was also inhibited locally in the Neurotropin treatment group. Since Erk activation results in demyelination along with dedifferentiation of Schwann cells, we investigated the expression level of myelin basic protein. Five days after the injury, Neurotropin attenuated the downregulation of myelin basic protein in the sciatic nerve in the CCI model. Local effects of Neurotropin around the injury site may result in discovery of new treatments for not only neuropathic pain but also demyelinating diseases and peripheral nervous system injury.

Large submandibular gland stone has always been a therapeutic challenge. When they cannot be accessed in a simple transoral approach necessitate gland removal. The advent of external lithotripsy gave hope for a conservative treatment, but the success rates ranged from 40% in the submandibular glands with specifically poor results in case of large stones. Sialendoscopy, initially described in 1990 for diagnosis and now used in sialendoscopy, cannot always extract large submandibular gland stones. To avoid submandibular gland excision, we report a technique combining sialendoscopy and a transoral approach.

We report a case of isolated oculomotor nerve paresis due to sphenoiditis. A 33-year-old woman reporting mild left-side ptosis and diplopia had no signs of brain aneurysm or diabetes mellitus. Despite her left-side ocular movement disturbance and ptosis, ophthalmological examination showed neither visual impairment nor pupil dilation. Symptoms were due to isolated left-side oculomotor nerve paresis. Computed tomography (CT) showed soft tissue density in the sphenoid sinus, fielding a definitive diagnosis of sphenoiditis necessitating endoscopic surgery under general anesthesia. All symptoms disappeared within 2 months postoperatively.

We encountered a case of brainstem infarction with paralytic pontine exotropia. A 74-year-old male with hypertension, hyperlipidemia and diabetes complained of dizziness on day 1. He developed vertigo on day 5 and came to our hospital on day 7. CT findings were normal, but he showed spontaneous nystagmus to the right and one-and-a-half syndrome in addition to ataxia. On the same day, he was admitted to our hospital and MRI was performed. MRI (T2WI and diffusion) showed a high intensity area on the middle-left side of the lower pons. We considered that he had initially had TIA and developed brainstem infarction on day 7. We suggested that impairment of eye movement was caused by paralytic pontine exotropia, which followed one-and-a-half syndrome. After treatment, ataxia recovered, but impairment of eye movement remained. Neurological examinations are important even in cases showing normal CT findings.

To clarify roles of an endogenous pain modulatory system of the central nervous system (CNS) in hyperalgesia, we tried to identify qualitative and quantitative protein changes by a proteomic analysis using an animal model of hyperalgesia. Specifically, we first induced functional hyperalgesia on male Wistar rats by repeated cold stress (specific alternation of rhythm in temperature, SART). We then compared proteomes of multiple regions of CNS and the dorsal root ganglion between the hyperalgetic rats and non-treated ones by 2-D PAGE in the pI range of 4.0-7.0. We found that SART changed the proteomes prominently in the mesencephalon and cerebellum. We thus analyzed the two brain regions in more detail using gels with narrower pI ranges. As a result, 29 and 23 protein spots were significantly changed in the mesencephalon and the cerebellum, respectively. We successfully identified 12 protein spots by a MALDI-TOF/TOF MS and subsequent protein database searching. They included unc-18 protein homolog 67K, collapsin response mediator protein (CRMP)-2 and CRMP-4, which were reported to be involved in neurotransmitter release or axon elongation. Interestingly, mRNA expression levels of these three proteins were not changed significantly by the induction of hyperalgesia. Instead, we found that the detected changes in the protein spots are caused by the post-translational modification (PTM) of proteolysis or phosphorylation. Taken together, development of the hyperalgesia would be linked to PTM of these three CNS proteins. PTM regulation may be one of the useful ways to treat hyperalgesia.

A high resolution X-ray microscope equipped with a multi-walled carbon nanotube cathode was developed. This system has ordinary scanning electron microscopy functions available for the precise adjustment of focusing conditions including astigmatism and an alignment of an electron beam. By the adoption of a transmission type, X-ray images with high magnification can be easily obtained. The diameter of an electron probe, which is one of the factors limiting a spatial resolution of X-ray microscopes, was estimated to be about 270 nm from a resolution of obtained SEM images. Clear X-ray images with the resolution higher than 400 nm were successfully obtained.

Regulation of K+/Na+ homeostasis is an important mechanism in plant growth. The high-affinity K+ uptake system plays a central role in this mechanism especially when plants experience environmental stresses of K+ starvation and high salinity. K+ channels and the K+/Na+ co-transporter like HKT have been closely studied as principal members of the K+ transport system in plants. The KT/HAK/KUP family is a major K+ transporter family present in bacteria, fungi and plants. In plants, the KT/HAK/KUP transporters form a large family. Arabidopsis thaliana has 13 genes and rice has at least 25. KT/HAK/KUP transporters serve various functions in various K+ traffic, but their physiological roles are still unclear. Plant KT/HAK/KUP transporters could be divided into 4 related clusters according to their amino acid sequences, the character of transporters belongs to each cluster was summarized. We analyzed the expression of OsHAK genes in rice roots under both K+ starvation and salt stress conditions.

Schwannoma occasionally arises in the head and neck region and it is reported that pre-operative diagnosis of this lesion is usually difficult. We encountered a case of schwannoma in the submandibular region which needed to be differentiated from parotid tumor. A 66-year-old man with schwannoma in the left upper neck region was reported. He had noticed swelling of the left upper neck in 2000 but did not consult a hospital for treatment because the swelling was painless. The patient was referred to our department for swelling on March 27, 2006. Based on enhanced CT (contrast study) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, the lesion was diagnosed as a neurogenic tumor. Since the surgery, patient has not developed any recurrence.

Immune responses against heat shock protein 60 (HSP60) of pathogen-origin are thought to be defensive events which, due to molecular mimicry, misdirect to a human counterpart. Therefore, atherosclerosis may be serologically predicted by anti-HSP60 antibodies (Abs). In the present study, we analyzed the clinical prevalence of the serum IgG Abs against Helicobacter pylori (Hp)-derived HSP60 (Hp-HSP60) or its peptide fragments in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD; n = 250), as compared to those in age- and gender-matched non-CVD patients ( n = 293). Anti-Hp cell lysate Abs frequently appeared in Hp-infected patients who were not associated with CVD. In contrast, Abs against the particular amino acid sequence Hp-HSP60 II3 (II3 region, Glu 141 –Leu 160 , in Hp-HSP60) predominantly appeared in CVD patients, as well as IgG anti-human HSP60 (Hu-HSP60 w ). Furthermore, neither titer of anti-Hp-HSP60 II3 nor anti-Hu-HSP60 w Abs was correlated with the levels of high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP). This data strongly suggested that IgG anti-Hp-HSP60 II3 Abs cross-reacted with Hu-HSP60 w were independent diagnostic markers relevant to CVD. Further, the 20 amino acid residues (Glu 141 –Leu 160 ) might be predominant CVD-associated epitopes that induce anti-Hu-HSP60 auto-Abs, whose location was predicted in the tertiary structure of Hu-HSP60.

A new BiS2-based superconductor Bi2(O,F)S2 was discovered. This is a layered compound consisting of alternate stacking structure of rock-salt-type BiS2 superconducting layer and fluorite-type Bi(O,F) blocking layer. Bi2(O,F)S2 was obtained as the main phase by topotactic fluorination of undoped Bi2OS2 using XeF2, which is the first topotactic synthesis of an electron-doped superconductor via reductive fluorination. With increasing F-content, a- and c-axis length increased and decreased, respectively, and Tc increased up to 5.1 K., 9 pages, 4 figures

The present study indicates that visual signals responsible for OKN are conducted through the retinal ganglion cells mainly contralaterally, and only in the ventral region of the retina ipsilateral to the injection site. The retinal ganglion cells projecting into the NOT ipsilateral to the injection site were identified as small- and medium-sized cells in the rat. The density of the ventral ganglion cells of the retina contralateral to the injection site was lower than that in any other regions of the retina except for the dorsal region of the retina, and the density of the ventral ganglion cells ipsilateral to the injection site was about 4 times greater than that on the contralateral side. This finding requires physiological investigation in the future.

Beta vulgaris L. accumulates a large amount of glycinebetaine (betaine), a metabolite that is related to salt- tolerance. Production of betaine involves expression of many genes that encode enzymes such as betaine aldehyde dehydrogenase, choline monooxygenase, phosphoethanolamine N-methyltransferase, S-adenosyl-L-methionine synthetase, S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine hydrolase, and methionine synthase. We examined transcriptional regulation of the betaine- related genes in leaf beet (Beta vulgaris L. var cicla, cv. shirogukifudanna). Transcript expression of these betaine-related genes in leaf tissue had the following common features: (1) a similar pattern of transcript induction under salt stress, (2) reduced induction under salt stress in a dark condition, and (3) diurnal rhythms of transcript levels under a photoperiod of 16 h light/8 h darkness. The co-regulation of transcripts may contribute to the effective betaine production without disturbing the biosynthesis of other products in leaf beet.

The dolls' eyes manoeuvre in head tilt in roll (DM), recognised as one of the otolith function tests from Barany's era in 1906 and treated as a classic test in the roll plane which yields ocular counter-rolling (OCR), was investigated in normal subjects. The DM is a simple, safe, and sound test but has not yet become quantitative. Recently, we devised a new three-dimensional eye movement image analysis technique using a commercialised infrared CCD camera, a personal computer, and public domain software. Image analysis was performed automatically using the public domain software NIH Image.As the result of the DM, OCRs in particular torsional components of eye movements, of which analysis was performed by NIH Image, were performed by seven healthy normal subjects sampled among fifty normal subjects.Six subjects were able to perform smooth OCRs under our critical instruction, except one subject wearing soft contact lens. They all reported no perception disorder and experienced had no sickness during the DM.In a future study, we would like to apply the DM to patients with Meniere's disease (MD). The histopathological feature of MD is defined as endolymphatic hydrops (EH) and EH initially involves the whole inner ear system. If possible, to detect EH in the inner ear organs, we would like to investigate whether or not there is any abnormality of OCRs in MD patients. The DM can be useful to detect such abnormalities, non-invasively.

Liver dendritic cells (DC) are believed to play important roles in liver immunity, autoimmunity, and in the regulation of hepatic allograft acceptance. However, limited information is available on the phenotypes and functions of DC in the liver. To address this issue, we isolated DC from murine liver using procedures that do not involve collagenase, and characterized the freshly isolated DC population that had not been subjected to in vitro expansion. Thence, based on the expression of CD4, B220, and CD11b, four subsets or groups of hepatic NK1.1−CD11c+ DC were identified with the following phenotypes: B220+CD4+, B220+CD4−, B220−CD11b+, and B220−CD11b−. Each subset was further characterized both phenotypically and functionally. In addition to unique phenotypic expression, each subset displayed different allostimulation capability in mixed lymphocyte reaction assays. All four groups developed DC morphology following in vitro culture with activation agents and synthesized distinct patterns of cytokines in response to different stimuli. Taken together, our results suggest that groups I and II are IFN-α-producing plasmacytoid DC, group III cells are myeloid-related DC, while group IV is a heterogenous population containing both myeloid- and lymphoid-related DC. Our results demonstrate the highly heterogeneous nature of hepatic DC, which is in agreement with the unique requirements for APC in the complex liver environment.

Sialolithiasis is an obstructive salivary disease, that usually occurs in the submandibular gland. Sialolithiasis of the parotid gland is relatively rare. We encountered two cases of sialolithiasis in the parotid gland and attempted a minimally-invasive approach by sialendoscopy. In this study we used two kind of fiberscopes for the sialendoscopy: one was the rigid type, 1.7-mm outer diameter (OD) without a working channel, and the other was the flexible type, 2.8-mm OD with a working channel. In terms of size, the former was more appropriate for sialendoscopy than the latter. However, the working channel was important for examination of the stensens duct and for treatment. Treatment was not performed, however, because in the first case the parotid stone was extracted unintentionally by the rigid endoscope during examination, and in the second case the stone dislodged by itself. We suggest that sialendoscopy is a useful approach. It is minimally-invasive, easy, inexpensive and presents a low patient burden.

Incorporation of different structured synthetic hemes, 5,10,15,20-tetraphenylporphyrinatoiron(II) derivetives with a covalently linked proximal base [FeP(1) to FeP(7)], into human serum albumin (HSA), provides seven types of albumin-heme hybrids (HSA-FeP) with different O 2 -binding abilities. An HSA host absorbs a maximum of eight FeP molecules in each case. The obtained all HSA-FePs can reversibly bind and release O 2 under physiological conditions (in aqueous media, pH 7.3, 37 °C) as similar as hemoglobin and myoglobin. The difference in the fence structures did not affect the O 2 -binding parameters, however the axial histidine coordination significantly increased the O 2 -binding affinity, which is ascribed to the low O 2 -dissociation rate constants. The most remarkable effect of the heme structure appeared in the half-lifetime (τ 1/2 ) of the O 2 -adduct complex. The dioxygenated rHSA-FeP(4) showed an unusually long lifetime (τ 1/2 : 25 hr at 37 °C) which is ca. 13-fold longer than that of rHSA-FeP(1).