Search

We hypothesized that in patients with QT prolongation, resistance might not decrease in the wave-free period, because QTU prolongation cannot be detected by instantaneous wave-free ratio (iFR) analysis software. We investigated whether corrected QTU (QTUc) prolongation affects the hyperemic iFR value. Forty-two consecutive patients with intermediate stenosis (≥ 50%) in the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) were analyzed. Fractional flow reserve (FFR) and hyperemic iFR were simultaneously and continuously recorded with intravenous adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and papaverine infusions. In 17 patients with stenosis in the proximal LAD, coronary flow was measured. Patients were divided into two groups according to the median absolute deviation of the QTUc by ATP administration/QTUc by papaverine administration. FFR, hyperemic iFR, and flow data were compared between each stimulus and group. Moreover, influences of pressure and electrocardiogram parameters on differences in iFR values under ATP and papaverine administration were compared between the following two groups (group 1: the absolute difference of hyperemic iFR values between ATP and papaverine administration is ≤ 0.05; group 2: that is > 0.05). The paired t test and t test were used in analysis. Hyperemic iFR values of patients under the use of papaverine were lower than those of patients under the use of ATP when QTUc was more prolonged by papaverine administration than by ATP administration (ATP 0.74 ± 0.14, papaverine 0.71 ± 0.15, P = 0.025). No significant differences were observed in the FFR value and flow data between the groups. Regarding QTU, QTUc, and QTUc by ATP/QTUc by papaverine, significant differences were observed between group 1 and group 2. Pressure parameters did not induce significant differences. QTUc prolongation induced by papaverine was associated with lower hyperemic iFR values. An iFR-based assessment might lead to inappropriate treatment of patients with QTUc prolongation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recognition of vegetation changes induced by volcanic eruption is particularly important for paleoenvironmental studies in volcanic regions. In this study, we examined the molecular and stable carbon isotopic compositions (δ 13 C) of sedimentary leaf wax n -alkanoic acids from Lake Yamanaka at the northeastern foot of Mt. Fuji, central Japan, to distinguish volcanic effects on biomarker δ 13 C proxies from other environmental influences over the past 15,000 years. The δ 13 C values of C 30 acids showed a significant positive correlation with average chain length (ACL 24–30 ), suggesting that δ 13 C reflects plant physiological responses to changes in water availability for C 3 plants. The δ 13 C values of C 30 acids showed patterns similar to those of Holocene stalagmite δ 18 O records in Chinese caves, indicating that variations in hydroclimate at the northeastern foot of Mt. Fuji are controlled by large-scale changes in Asian monsoon activity. In contrast, the δ 13 C values of C 24 –C 28 acids increased abruptly at ca. 1750 and 1100 cal yr BP, which coincide with eruptive events at the northeastern flank of Mt. Fuji. This suggests an increase in input from C 4 plants, likely reflecting an increase in C 4 Miscanthus grass, a pioneer species on volcanic deposits, following by the devastation of forest by the eruptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have grown Ga doped ZnSnAs2 thin films on InP substrates using all-solid source MBE technique. Using the optimum substrate temperature of 340 ºC and Zn:Sn:As4 beam equivalent pressure ratio (BEPR) of 24:1:52, samples were prepared with different Ga concentration achieved by changing the Ga flux. Compositional analysis was performed using electron microprobe microanalysis (EMPA). We found that Ga concentration on the cation sites is 20.9% and 8.7%. XRD patterns of Ga doped samples showed only assignable to ZnSnAs2:Ga and InP substrate. The lattice constant decreases linearly from 0.5862 to 0.5829 nm with decreasing Ga concentration. The observed concentration dependence indicates that the lattice constant of the thin films can be controlled by Ga doping concentration. Hall coefficient and resistivity of Ga 8.7% doped sample can be well explained by the impurity band model. We were able to resolve the experimentally obtained carrier concentration pexp and mobility μexp into valence band carrier concentration pv with mobility μv and acceptor band carrier concentration pa with mobility μa. The computed apparent values papp and μapp are in good agreement with pexp and μexp, respectively. (© 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the benefits of implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) therapy in patients with Brugada syndrome (BrS) at risk of sudden cardiac arrest are well established, these relatively young patients can encounter complications in the long term. The objective of the present study was to determine the incidence of device complications in patients with BrS during long-term follow-up. The prevalence of device-related complications and the clinical outcome were determined in 41 consecutive patients with BrS (age 48 - 12 years; 38 men) who were treated with ICD implantation. During a median follow-up of 76 months (interquartile range 51 to 98), 15 patients (37%) experienced 21 adverse events, including 11 device-related complications in 8 (20%) and ‡1 inappropriate shock in 10 (24%). Five patients (12%) received appropriate shocks for ventricular fibrillation. Excluding inappropriate shocks, 95.1%, 89.6%, 86.6%, and 73.3% of patients were free of device-related complications at 1, 3, 5, and 7 years, respectively. Also, 92.6%, 89.8%, 89.9%, and 86.1% were free of lethal arrhythmias at 1, 3, 5, and 7 years, respectively. Adverse effects related to ICD implantation are not uncommon, and their prevalence increases with the follow-up duration required for patients with BrS. In conclusion, because complications can be encountered even very late after device implantation, asymptomatic young patients should be carefully selected and educated about the long-term outcomes of ICD therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Endoscopic screening and removal of colorectal adenomas can reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer. However, given the possibility of adenoma recurrence, surveillance colonoscopy is currently recommended after the initial screening and removal of colorectal adenomas. Aberrant crypt foci (ACF) have been shown to serve as a reliable surrogate marker of colorectal carcinogenesis. In this study, the relationship between the number of ACF at the initial endoscopic polypectomy and the likelihood of colorectal adenoma recurrence after polypectomy were investigated. Methods: High-magnification chromoscopic colonoscopy was performed in 82 subjects who underwent endoscopic polypectomy to identify ACF in the lower rectum. Surveillance colonoscopy was then performed 3 years after the baseline polypectomy at Yokohama City University Hospital. Results: The number of ACF was greater in patients who showed adenoma recurrence (7.88 ± 6.35) than in those who did not (2.19 ± 2.95) ( P < 0.001). Receiver-operating curve analysis showed that the number of ACF was a highly specific predictor of the risk of adenoma recurrence. Conclusions: This is the first study conducted to investigate the relationship between the number of ACF after endoscopic polypectomy and the likelihood of recurrence of colorectal adenomas. These results suggest that the number of ACF is a useful predictor of the likelihood of colorectal adenoma recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thermal fluctuation of mirror surfaces is the fundamental limitation for interferometric gravitational wave (GW) detectors. Here, we experimentally demonstrate for the first time a reduction in a mirror's thermal fluctuation in a GW detector with sapphire mirrors from the Cryogenic Laser Interferometer Observatory at 17 and 18 K. The detector sensitivity, which was limited by the mirror's thermal fluctuation at room temperature, was improved in the frequency range of 90 to 240 Hz by cooling the mirrors. The improved sensitivity reached a maximum of 2.2 × 10-19 m/√Hz at 165 Hz. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers an overview of the 2007 'academic Roadmap of Robotics from the Viewpoint of Engineering through 2050." It elaborates on the three likely problems of the society by 2050 such as an aging society, energy and environmental problems. Papers addressing the concerns of comfort, safety andd green are also enumerated.

Objective: Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and aplastic anemia (AA) are the most common anemias that require transfusion therapy in Japan. This retrospective survey investigated relationships between iron overload, chelation practices, and morbidity/mortality in patients with these diseases. Method: Medical histories of transfusion-dependent patients were assessed at transfusion onset, chelation onset, and study end. Results: Data were collected from 292 patients with MDS, AA, pure red cell aplasia, myelofibrosis, and other conditions. Patients received a mean of 61.5 red blood cell units during the previous year. Fewer than half (43%) of patients had previously received deferoxamine (DFO) therapy. Only 8.6% received daily/continuous DFO. In all, 75 deaths were reported, with cardiac and liver failure noted in 24.0 and 6.7% of cases. Of these, 97% had ferritin levels >1000 ng/mL. Abnormal cardiac and liver function was observed in 21.9% (14/64) and 84.6% (11/13) of all patients assessed. Effective chelation with DFO resulted in improved serum ferritin, liver enzymes, and fasting blood sugar. Conclusions: Mortality is higher in heavily iron-overloaded patients, with liver and cardiac dysfunction being the primary cause. Daily/continuous chelation therapy was effective at reducing iron burden and improving organ function. Chelation therapy should be initiated once serum ferritin levels exceed 1000 ng/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Portal triad occlusion (PTO) causes portal congestion and damages the intestinal mucosa, which is associated with portal endotoxemia. However, administration of a sublethal dose of endotoxin results in resistance to its toxic activities. We tested the hypothesis that portal congestion due to PTO induces endotoxin tolerance. Materials and methods: Rats were subjected to PTO for 15 min. In Group 1, male rats underwent laparotomy and, 48 h after the surgery, a lethal dose of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide was administered. In Group 2, rats were subjected to PTO for 15 min. Then a lethal dose of LPS was administered 48 h after surgery. Group 3 was treated the same as Group 2, except that PTO was performed with portosystemic shunt. Group 4 was also treated same as Group 2, except that rats received polymixin B and neomycin by gavage to eliminate intestinal luminal bacteria before PTO. Survival was examined after the administration of a lethal dose of LPS. Changes in plasma levels of cytokine are also measured after the administration of LPS. The portal endotoxin level in each group after PTO was measured. Results: On survival test, only rats in Group 2 and Group 4 showed significantly higher survival rates. The portal endotoxin level was significantly elevated only in Group 2. The elevation of plasma cytokine levels (IL-6, TNF-α) and NO production (NO2 −/NO3 −) in Groups 2 and 4 were inhibited compare to those in Groups 1 and 3. Conclusions: PTO induced LPS tolerance possibly due to portal congestion and subsequent visceral congestion. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: Ethyl pyruvate has been shown to be an effective anti-inflammatory agent in a variety of in vitro and in vivo model systems. Herein, we used a murine model of acute pancreatitis to compare the effects of treatment with either Ringer's lactate solution or ethyl pyruvate solution on several physiologic and biochemical variables related to disease severity.Design: Experimental animal study.Setting: University laboratory.Subjects: C57Bl/6 mice.Interventions: Pancreatitis was induced by feeding the animals a choline-deficient diet supplemented with 0.5% ethionine for 24 hrs and then challenging the animals with seven hourly 50 microg/kg intraperitoneal injections of cerulein and a single intraperitoneal injection of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (4 mg/kg).Measurements and Main Results: When mice were treated with ethyl pyruvate (40 mg/kg intraperitoneally every 6 hrs for 48 hrs) instead of Ringer's lactate solution starting 2 hrs after the injection of lipopolysaccharide, long-term survival was improved from one of ten to six of ten (p =.057). When mice were treated with a 40 mg/kg dose of ethyl pyruvate just before the first dose of cerulein and then injected with a second 40 mg/kg dose 6 hrs later, serum concentrations of alanine aminotransferase measured 10 hrs after the first cerulein dose were significantly lower than in mice with pancreatitis treated with Ringer's lactate solution. In this model of acute pancreatitis, the same dosing regimen for ethyl pyruvate also ameliorated bacterial translocation to mesenteric lymph nodes and leakage of fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled albumin from blood into bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Treatment with ethyl pyruvate decreased pancreatic expression of tumor necrosis factor and interleukin-6 messenger RNA and nuclear factor-kappaB DNA binding in nuclear extracts prepared from pancreatic tissue.Conclusion: Treatment with ethyl pyruvate ameliorated the local inflammatory response and decreased local and distant organ injury in a murine model of necrotizing pancreatitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We previously showed that infusing rats with a solution of ethyl pyruvate ameliorates intestinal mucosal injury after mesenteric ischemia and reperfusion. Ethyl pyruvate also has been shown to inhibit the expression of various pro-inflammatory cytokines in several animal models of critical illness, but dose-response relationships have not been investigated.Design: Anesthetized C57BL/6 mice were subjected to 60 min of mesenteric ischemia followed by 60 min of reperfusion. After 55 min of ischemia, groups of mice were treated with normal saline or graded bolus doses of ethyl pyruvate dissolved in a calcium-containing balanced salt solution. Some animals (i.e., those in the sham group) were subjected to the anesthetic, but not mesenteric ischemia/reperfusion. Gut mucosal permeability was assessed using an everted gut sac technique.Setting: University research laboratory.Measurements and Results: Mesenteric ischemia/reperfusion significantly increased ileal mucosal permeability to the hydrophilic macromolecule, fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran (molecular mass 4,000 Da). Whereas the lowest dose of ethyl pyruvate evaluated (17 mg/kg) had no effect on gut mucosal permeability, the two highest doses tested (50 and 150 mg/kg) significantly ameliorated the development of ischemia/reperfusion-induced mucosal hyperpermeability to about the same extent. The two highest doses of ethyl pyruvate also significantly ameliorated deficits in ileal serosal and mucosal and hepatic surface microvascular perfusion induced by mesenteric ischemia/reperfusion. Ethyl pyruvate inhibited post-ischemia/reperfusion hepatic NF-kappaB activation and TNF mRNA expression in a dose-dependent fashion.Conclusion: Doses of ethyl pyruvate equal to or greater than 50 mg/kg ameliorate inflammation, microvascular hypoperfusion and gut mucosal damage induced by mesenteric ischemia/reperfusion in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

I construct a dynamic two-sector model which formalizes Ricardo’s argument on the effects of the introduction of machinery. My model does not require the inappropriate assumptions common to other Ricardian models. Using this model, I show that if machinery is introduced, both the demand for labour and the output of the consumption good must decline temporarily and can then recover. As well, the temporal decline of value of the gross produce is not a necessary condition for the above temporal decline of the demand for labour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thrombopoietin (TPO) receptor is expressed in the megakaryocytic lineage from late progenitors to platelets. We investigated the effect of TPO on the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation pathway in human platelets. TPO by itself did not activate ERK1, ERK2 and protein kinase C (PKC), whereas TPO directly enhanced the PKC-dependent activation of ERKs induced by other agonists including thrombin and phorbol esters, without affecting the PKC activation by those agonists. TPO did not activate the mitogen-activated protein kinase/ERK kinases, MEK1 and MEK2, but activated Raf-1 and directly augmented the PKC-mediated MEK activation, suggesting that TPO primarily potentiates the ERK pathway through regulating MEKs or upstream steps of MEKs including Raf-1. The MEK inhibitor PD098059 failed to affect not only thrombin-induced or phorbol ester-induced aggregation, but also potentiation of aggregation by TPO, denying the primary involvement of ERKs and MEKs in those events. ERKs and MEKs were located mainly in the detergent-soluble/non-cytoskeletal fractions. ERKs but not MEKs were relocated to the cytoskeleton following platelet aggregation and actin polymerization. These data indicate that TPO synergizes with other agonists in the ERK activation pathway of platelets and that this synergy might affect functions of the cytoskeleton possibly regulated by ERKs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses human T cell leukemia virus type I (HTLV-I) and its association with a variety of human diseases. Information on HTLV-I associated diseases; Interaction between HTLV-I viral products and cellular molecules; HTLV-I-infected cells in the host.

Discusses the expression of various adhesion molecules in adult T-cell leukemia (ATL) cells and HTLV-I-infected cell lines. Key role of cell adhesion molecules in trafficking, localization and infiltration of leukemic cells in ATL; E-selecting-mediated pathway as predominant adhesion pathway; Presence of adhesion pathway mediated by as yet unknown cell adhesion molecule; Development of monoclonal antibodies.

The article reports on the case of a 58 year old man with palpitation and no structural heart disease who was referred to a medical center for electrophysiological study and catheter ablation. A discussion of a diagnosis of tachycardia which was given to the patient, and of the mechanisms which could have led to the patient's tachycardia, is presented.

A case study is presented in which a 67-year-old woman with drug-resistant paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) and no structural heart disease received catheter ablation. The spontaneous initiation of AF occurring after a decapolar circular mapping catheter was placed in the right superior pulmonary vein is discussed.

The CLIO project in Japan consists of two kinds of interferometric detectors in a tunnel of Kamioka mine. One is a geophysical strain meter and the other one is a gravitational wave (GW) detector. The GW detector is called Cryogenic Laser Interferometer Observatory (CLIO). The characteristics of CLIO are the use of cryogenic to reduce the thermal noises and an underground site for low seismic vibration. CLIO is under construction, and installation of the first cryogenic system was completed in the autumn of 2004. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transient noise appearing in the data from gravitational‐wave detectors frequently causes problems, such as instability of the detectors and overlapping or mimicking gravitational‐wave signals. Because transient noise is considered to be associated with the environment and instrument, its classification would help to understand its origin and improve the detector's performance. In a previous study, an architecture for classifying transient noise using a time–frequency 2D image (spectrogram) is proposed, which uses unsupervised deep learning combined with variational autoencoder and invariant information clustering. The proposed unsupervised‐learning architecture is applied to the Gravity Spy dataset, which consists of Advanced Laser Interferometer Gravitational‐Wave Observatory (Advanced LIGO) transient noises with their associated metadata to discuss the potential for online or offline data analysis. In this study, focused on the Gravity Spy dataset, the training process of unsupervised‐learning architecture of the previous study is examined and reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessment of coronary artery lesions using the fractional flow reserve and instantaneous flow reserve (iFR) measurements has been found to reduce the incidence of further cardiovascular events. Here, we investigated differences in terms of coronary flow velocity and resistance within the analysis interval between the iFR and the intracoronary electrocardiogram (IC-ECG)-triggered distal/aortic pressure (Pd/Pa) ratio (ICE-T). We enrolled 23 consecutive patients (n = 33 stenoses) who required coronary flow measurements. ICE-T was defined as the average Pd/Pa ratio in the period corresponding to the isoelectric line of the IC-ECG. We compared the index value, flow velocity, and intracoronary resistance during the analysis intervals of the iFR and the ICE-T, both at rest and under hyperemia. ICE-T values and ICE-T intracoronary resistance were both found to be significantly lower, whereas flow velocity was significantly higher than those of the iFR at both rest and under hyperemia (P < 0.001), and all fluctuations in ICE-T values were also significantly smaller than those in the iFR. In conclusion, the ICE-T appears theoretically superior to pressure-dependent indices for analyzing phases with low and stable resistance, without an increase in invasiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a 56-year-old woman who suffered from regular narrow QRS complex tachycardia and referred for electrophysiological study and catheter ablation. Topics discussed include a baseline electrophysiological test performed on her that revealed a normal AH/HV interval during sinus rhythm, the atrial activation that occurred during the tachycardia and differential diagnosis of the irregular tachycardia such as irregular atrial tachycardia.

Denser Pd coatings were prepared on the inner wall of the Cu tubes and the photon-stimulated desorption (PSD) of gases from the tubes in response to synchrotron radiation was assessed. In comparison with low PSD materials such as TiZrV coatings, the Pd coatings exhibited ultra-low PSD yields. Especially, the initial H 2 PSD yield was lower one order. These ultra-low PSD yields could be maintained after several cycles of air exposure and followed heating. In addition, the denser Pd films showed significantly lower resistivities compared to the TiZrV films. • ・Gas desorption from dense Pd films in response to synchrotron radiation were assessed. • ・Desorption yields of Pd films were much lower than that of TiZrV films. • ・Ultra-low PSD yields could be maintained after several cycles of air exposure and heating. • ・Dense Pd films showed significantly lower resistivities compared to the TiZrV films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to apply coating technology to the development of accelerator components with low gas desorption under synchrotron radiation (SR) exposure, TiZrV, Ag and Pd coating films were prepared and gas desorption in response to SR were studied at KEK Photon Factory (PF). TiZrV alloy is a non-evaporable getter (NEG) material widely used to coat accelerators vacuum chambers, and low pressure under SR irradiation was observed in the TiZrV coated tubes after activation. In this study, planar Cu substrates were coated with TiZrV, Ag and Pd and their SR-stimulated desorption yields were measured. It has been identified that the desorption yield of the TiZrV coated sample was significantly lower than that of the bare Cu substrate, while Ag coating also exhibited similarly low desorption yield. In addition, the Pd coating demonstrated the possibility of further decreasing the gas desorption in response to the SR. • Gas desorption from TiZrV, Ag and Pd coating films in response to SR were investigated. • Intrinsic desorption yield of TiZrV films were significantly lower than that of the bare Cu substrate. • Desorption yields of the Ag films were close to that of the TiZrV films. • Pd films showed possibility of further decrease of SR-stimulated desorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented regarding a 64-year-old man who was scheduled for a colon polyp resection.

A letter to the editor is presented in response to the article "Preparation with Oral Tablets of Sodium Phosphate (Visceral®) is Suitable for Colonoscopy but Not for Colonoscopy with Upper Endoscopy."

Reducing delamination is essential in increasing the impact resistance of laminated composites. In this study, two methods were used to improve energy-absorption capabilities of laminated glass/epoxy composites; one was based on small fiber angle changes between adjacent laminae, and the other was based on through-thickness stitching reinforcement. Penetration thresholds were determined for small-angle laminated composites [0/θ]6 for which θ = 0, 5, 10, and 15 deg. The small-angle laminated composites, especially [0/15]6, were found to have higher penetration thresholds than the conventional large-angle laminated composites, such as [0/90]6, due to damage progression (most notably, fiber bridging). Stitched small-angle laminated composites were also found to have higher impact resistance than unstitched specimens with the same stacking sequence. The use of small-angle composites was extended to multi-axis laminated composites, such as biaxis, triaxis, and sexiaxis laminated composites. Penetration thresholds of the multi-axis laminates were found to be very comparable with the uniaxis laminated composites, that is, [0/θ]6. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the data obtained by laser interferometric gravitational wave detectors, transient noise with non-stationary and non-Gaussian features occurs at a high rate. This often results in problems such as detector instability and the hiding and/or imitation of gravitational-wave signals. This transient noise has various characteristics in the time–frequency representation, which is considered to be associated with environmental and instrumental origins. Classification of transient noise can offer clues for exploring its origin and improving the performance of the detector. One approach for accomplishing this is supervised learning. However, in general, supervised learning requires annotation of the training data, and there are issues with ensuring objectivity in the classification and its corresponding new classes. By contrast, unsupervised learning can reduce the annotation work for the training data and ensure objectivity in the classification and its corresponding new classes. In this study, we propose an unsupervised learning architecture for the classification of transient noise that combines a variational autoencoder and invariant information clustering. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed architecture, we used the dataset (time–frequency two-dimensional spectrogram images and labels) of the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) first observation run prepared by the Gravity Spy project. The classes provided by our proposed unsupervised learning architecture were consistent with the labels annotated by the Gravity Spy project, which manifests the potential for the existence of unrevealed classes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of leptin in colorectal carcinogenesis is still unclear. We produced and used intestinal epithelium-specific LEPR cKO mice to clarify the importance of local/regional LEPR-mediated signaling in colorectal carcinogenesis.Leptin, secreted by the adipose tissue and known to be related to obesity, is considered to be involved in the onset and progression of colorectal cancer. However, the exact role of leptin in colorectal carcinogenesis is still unclear, as several controversial reports have been published on the various systemic effects of leptin. The aim of this study was to clarify the local and precise roles of leptin receptor (LEPR)-mediated signaling in colonic carcinogenesis using intestinal epithelium-specific LEPRb conditional knockout (cKO) mice. We produced and used colonic epithelium-specific LEPRb cKO mice to investigate the carcinogen-induced formation of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) and tumors in the colon, using their littermates as control. There were no differences in the body weight or systemic condition between the control and cKO mice. The tumor sizes and number of large-sized tumors were significantly lower in the cKO mice as compared with those in the control mice. On the other hand, there was no significant difference in the proliferative activity of the normal colonic epithelial cells or ACF formation between the control and cKO mice. In the control mice, marked increase of the LEPRb expression level was observed in the colonic tumors as compared with that in the normal epithelium; furthermore, signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT3) was activated in the tumor cells. These findings suggest that STAT3 is one of the important molecules downstream of LEPRb, and LEPRb/STAT3 signaling controls tumor cell proliferation. We demonstrated the importance of local/regional LEPR-mediated signaling in colorectal carcinogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Dipyridamole increases the levels of extracellular adenosine. The study investigates the impact of low-dose intravenous dipyridamole on adenosine test after pulmonary vein (PV) isolation (PVI). Methods and Results This prospective study included 12 paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) patients (61 ± 12 years; nine men) who underwent PVI at the first procedure. Transient PV reconnection was provoked by adenosine test in 4/48 PVs. In 44 PVs without reconnection, intravenous infusion of low-dose (10 mg) dipyridamole preceded the adenosine test. Additional six patients (PVs) with transient dormant conduction were included. Among the total 10 PVs with transient reconnection, it was eliminated by radiofrequency (RF) application(s) until no dormant conduction was exposed by adenosine test(s) in five PVs. Then, dipyridamole potentiated adenosine test was undertaken to provoke dormant conduction (group 1). In the remaining five PVs, dipyridamole potentiated adenosine test was followed by RF elimination of conduction gap and repeat adenosine test to confirm complete elimination (group 2). Low-dose dipyridamole prolonged the duration of adenosine-induced atrioventricular block without vasodilatatory hypotension. There was no evidence of reconnection in 44 PVs without dormant conduction and in group 1 wherein transient reconnection was eliminated by 4.8 ± 3.2 RF applications in 8.8 ± 3.0 minutes and adenosine injected 3.1 ± 1.8 times. In group 2, dipyridamole plus adenosine test revealed the same dormant conduction that persisted longer than during adenosine alone. It was eliminated by single RF application in 3.4 ± 0.9 minutes, and adenosine was injected once. Conclusions Low-dose dipyridamole safely prolongs the electrophysiological effects of adenosine test without provoking additional PV reconnection. This allows sustained visualization and facilitates complete RF elimination of the electrical conduction gap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas desorption from copper tubes coated with Pd or Pd/TiZrV in response to synchrotron radiation was investigated. Following activation (250 °C for 4 h), Pd/TiZrV film exhibited H 2 desorption yield that was over one order of magnitude lower than that from TiZrV film. The Pd and Pd/TiZrV films also desorbed smaller amount of CO and CO 2 during exposure. Compared to the TiZrV film, the Pd film exhibited a higher H 2 pumping rate and was more likely to release H 2 and CO during activation. These characteristics are considered to have reduced the photon-stimulated desorption yield of the Pd layer. • Gas desorption from Pd or Pd/TiZrV coated tubes in response to SR were measured. • H 2 desorption yield from Pd/TiZrV film was more than one order of magnitude lower than that from TiZrV film. • Pd surface released smaller amount of CO and CO2 than TiZrV surface during exposure. • It is confirmed that applying Pd films to surface effectively reduced desorption yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims Obesity increases the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). Serum leptin levels are markedly elevated in obese individuals, but the involvement of leptin in CRC growth remains unclear. We explored the hypothesis that leptin signalling regulates the growth of CRC, by examining the effects of leptin deficiency on murine colon tumour growth. Methods We used genetic (leptin-deficient and leptin receptor-deficient) models of obesity and investigated carcinogen-induced colon polyp formation and cell proliferation in the colonic epithelium. Colonic tissues and cell lines were analysed by histopathology and molecular-biology methods. Results A significant increase in the proliferative activity of normal colonic epithelial cells was observed in the obesity model; on the other hand, significant decrease of tumour cell proliferation was observed in leptin-deficient tumours, and tumour growth was dramatically inhibited in leptin-deficient and leptin-receptor-deficient mice despite the animals exhibiting severe obesity. Notably, a marked increase of the leptin receptor (ObR) expression levels was observed in colon tumours as compared to the normal epithelium. Nuclear b-catenin staining was pronounced in all tumours, irrespective of leptin deficiency, whereas altered cellular localisation of b-catenin was not observed in the normal colonic epithelial cells. In vitro, b-catenin knockdown decreased ObR expression, and stimulation of recombinant Wnt increased ObR expression. In addition, the proliferative and survival effects of leptin were found to be mediated by the ObR/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signalling in colon tumours. Conclusions Our findings indicate that leptin is important for CRC growth in obesity, and acts as a growth factor for CRC at stages subsequent to tumour initiation in colorectal carcinogenesis. Thus, inhibition of leptin signalling may be an effective strategy for therapy and prevention of colonic adenoma and cancer, which show activation of Wnt signalling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Relapse and spontaneous remission (SR) are characteristic features of autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP). Aim and methods: We conducted a study to determine if the predictive factors might be potentially related to the relapse in 70 consecutive AIP patients. Regarding SR, we studied the data of patients without corticosteroid treatment (CST). Results: CST was administered to 60% (42/70) of the patients; however, relapse was noted in 45.2% (19/42) of these patients. In 95% (18/19) of the AIP patients developing relapse, the relapse occurred within 3 years. The relapse rate was 80% (12/15) in the AIP patients administered CST for less than 12 months and 25.9% (7/27) in those administered CST for over 12 months ( p < 0.01). The results of univariate analysis revealed significant association of relapse with the presence of jaundice, IgG4 seropositivity, presence of diffuse pancreas swelling, duodenal papillitis (DP), history of initial CST, and history of supportive treatment ( p < 0.05), whereas multivariate analysis revealed that IgG4 seropositivity (OR 10.506, p = 0.0422) and the presence of jaundice (OR 6.945, p = 0.0174) are significant independent factors predictive of relapse in AIP patients. SR was recognized in 65.0% (13/20) of AIP patients without CST. The results of univariate analysis revealed that SR was associated with IgG4 seropositivity ( p < 0.05), and multivariate analysis identified IgG4 seropositivity (OR 0.032, p = 0.0092) as a significant independent factor predictive of SR in these cases. Conclusion: AIP patients with IgG4 seropositivity and jaundice are at a higher risk of relapse and they could therefore be candidates for over 3 years of maintenance CST. AIP patients with IgG4 seronegativity have a high likelihood of SR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Differentiation of sclerosing cholangitis-associated autoimmune pancreatitis (SC-AIP), primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and cancer of the hilar part of the bile duct (CHB) has been challenging. The aim of the present study was to evaluate characteristic intraductal ultrasonography (IDUS) features that could be used to discriminate SC-AIP from PSC and CHB. Six patients with SC-AIP, 10 patients with PSC and 12 patients with CHB were identified. We reviewed the following bile duct features observed using IDUS to determine their usefulness for differentiating SC-AIP from PSC and CHB: presence of symmetrical wall thickness, wall thickness, presence of homogeneous internal foci and presence of lateral mucosal lesions continuous to the hilar. IDUS results (SC-AIP, PSC, CHB) were as follows: wall thickness (mm), 3.7 ± 0.9, 2.6 ± 0.9, 2.8 ± 0.0.6; presence of symmetrical wall thickness, 100% (6/6), 20% (2/10), 8.3% (1/12); presence of homogeneous internal foci, 100% (6/6), 10% (1/10), 8.3% (1/12); and presence of lateral mucosal lesions continuous to the hilar, 83.3% (5/6), 40%(4/10), 25% (3/12). Symmetrical wall thickness of the bile duct, homogeneous internal foci and lateral mucosal lesions continuous to the hilar were detected significantly more often among the patients with SC-PSC than among the patients with PSC or CHB ( P < 0.05). IDUS findings, such as symmetrical wall thickness, presence of homogeneous internal foci and presence of lateral mucosal lesions continuous to the hilar can facilitate the differential diagnosis of SC-AIP from PSC and CHB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activating synthetic ligands for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), such as pioglitazone, are commonly used to treat persons with diabetes mellitus with improvement of insulin resistance. Several reports have clearly demonstrated that PPARγ ligands could inhibit colorectal cancer cell growth and induce apoptosis. Meanwhile, aberrant crypt foci (ACF) have come to be established as a biomarker of the risk of CRC in azoxymethane-treated mice and rats. In humans, ACF can be detected using magnifying colonoscopy. Previously, CRC and adenoma were used as a target for chemopreventive agents, but it needs a long time to evaluate, however, ACF can be a surrogate marker of CRC even for a brief period. In this clinical study, we investigated the chemopreventive effect of pioglitazone on the development of human ACF as a surrogate marker of CRC. Twenty-nine patients were divided into two groups, 20 were in the endoscopically normal control group and 9 were in the pioglitazone (15mg/day) group, and ACF and adenoma were examined before and after 1-month treatment. The number of ACF was significantly decreased (5.8 ± 1.1t o3.3 ± 2.3) after 1 month of pioglitazone treatment, however, there was no significant change in the number of crypts/ACF or in the number and size of adenomas. Pioglitazone may have a clinical application as a cancer-preventive drug. This investigation is just a pilot study, therefore, further clinical studies are needed to show that the PPARγ ligand may be a promising candidate as a chemopreventive agent for colorectal carcinogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Successive improvements have been performed on the vacuum system for the Photon Factory Advanced Ring (PF-AR) at the High Energy Accelerator Research Organization (KEK). The main purpose is to prolong electron beam lifetime for stable operation as an intense pulsed X-ray source. In the past three years, a total of 61 sputter ion pumps (SIPs) were additionally installed, and the increased effective pumping speed amounts to 13% of total. Comparison between calculated and observed beam lifetimes indicates that the lifetime is restricted mainly by the residual gas scatterings and that improvement of the vacuum will realize still longer lifetime. Sudden beam lifetime drops caused by dust trappings have been investigated for many years. The frequency of the lifetime drops has decreased as operation time elapsed after a large-scale reconstruction. Effect of distributed ion pumps (DIPs) on the lifetime drops has also been investigated experimentally. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Cellular adaptation to hypoxia is mediated in part by the transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1). Accumulating data suggest that pro-inflammatory mediators can up-regulate HIF-1α protein expression and HIF-1 DNA-binding activity in the absence of hypoxia. Accordingly, we investigated HIF-1 mediated signaling in endotoxemic rats. Materials and methods: We studied three groups of male Sprague Dawley rats. Controls (N = 5) were injected i.p. with saline. Endotoxemic rats (N = 9) received a sublethal dose of lipopolysaccaride (Escherichia coli; 5 mg/kg, i.p.). A third group of rats (N = 5) received the HIF-1 stabilizing agent CoCl2 (14 mg/kg, i.p.) at T = 0 h and T = 16 h. At T = 18 h, liver microvascular perfusion was measured using laser Doppler flowmetry and hepatic tissue samples were obtained. RNA was isolated and mRNA levels of the HIF-1 dependent genes aldolase A and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were determined using quantitative real-time RT-PCR. HIF-1α content was estimated by immunoprecipitation followed by Western blotting. Results: HIF-1α increased in hepatic tissue after treatment with LPS or CoCl2. LPS markedly increased hepatic expression of aldolase A, but failed to alter expression of VEGF. CoCl2 increased aldolase A and VEGF mRNA expression. Although hepatic microvascular perfusion was comparable in saline- and LPS-treated rats, hepatic microvascular blood flow and aldolase A expression were significantly inversely correlated among endotoxemic rats (r = 0.773; P = 0.003). Conclusions: Increased expression of aldolase A in endotoxemic rats is mediated by both hypoxia-dependent and hypoxia-independent mechanisms. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A murine endotoxemia model and cultured Calu-3 monolayers were used to test the hypothesis that excessive nitric oxide (NO) production secondary to induction of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) is a key factor leading to altered tight junction (TJ) protein expression and function in the pulmonary epithelium. C57B1/6J mice were injected with either Escherichia coli 011l:B4 lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 2 mg/kg) or vehicle. Twelve hours later, leakage of FITC-dextran (M[sub r] 4 kDa; FD4) from blood into bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was significantly increased in endotoxemic but not control mice. This decrease in bronchoalveolar barrier function was associated with upregulation of iNOS protein expression and NF-[sub K]B activation in lung tissue. Expression of the TJ proteins, zonula occludens (ZO)-1, ZO-2, ZO-3, and occludin, as assessed by immunoblotting and/or immunofluorescence, decreased in lung after the injection of mice with LPS. Treatment of endotoxemic mice with an isoform-selective iNOS inhibitor [L-N[sup 6]-(1-iminoethyl)lysine; L-NIL] ameliorated LPS-induced changes in TJ protein expression and preserved bronchoalveolar epithelial barrier function. Incubating Calu-3 bronchiolar epithelial monolayers with cytomix (a mixture of 1,000 U/ml IFN-γ, 10 ng/ml TNF-α, and 1 ng/ml IL-1β) increased permeability to FD4, but adding L-NIL prevented this effect. These results suggest that decreased expression and mistargeting of TJ proteins in lung after systemic inflammation may be NO dependent. zonula occludens-1; occludin; nitric oxide; permeability; multiple organ dysfunction syndrome; inducible nitric oxide synthase; lipopolysaccharide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We tested the hypothesis that increased production of nitric oxide (NO·) by inducible NO· synthase (iNOS) is a key factor responsible for alterations in the expression, localization, and function of key tight junction (TJ) proteins in mice challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS, endotoxin). Endotoxemia was associated with hepatobiliary epithelial barrier dysfunction, as evidenced by increased plasma-to-bile leakage of FITC-labeled dextran (relative molecular mass 40 kDa) and increased circulating levels of bile acids and conjugated bilirubin. Immunoblotting revealed decreased expression of zonula occludens (ZO)-1, ZO-2, ZO-3, and occludin in liver after injection of C57B1/6J mice with 2 mg/kg Escherichia coli 0111:B4 LPS. Nonidet P-40-insoluble (i.e., TJ-associated) occludin and ZO-1 were virtually undetectable 12 and 18 h after injecting LPS. Immunofluorescence microscopy also revealed deranged subcellular localization of ZO-1 and occludin in endotoxemic mice. Pharmacological inhibition of iNOS activity using 1-N[sup 6]-(1-iminoethyl)lysine (5 mg/kg) or genetic ablation of iNOS ameliorated LPS-induced changes in hepatobiliary barrier function, and these strategies partially preserved TJ protein expression and localization. Steady-state levels of occludin and ZO-3 transcripts decreased transiently after injecting LPS but returned toward normal by 12 and 24 h after induction of endotoxemia, respectively. These results support the view that iNOS-dependent NO· production is an important factor contributing to hepatobiliary epithelial barrier dysfunction resulting from systemic inflammation and suggest that iNOS induction may play a role in the development of cholestatic jaundice in patients with severe sepsis. multiple organ dysfunction syndrome; jaundice; hyperbilirubinemia; endotoxemia; inducible nitric oxide synthase; lipopolysaccharide [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We sought to determine the role of IL-6 as a mediator of the alterations in gut barrier function that occur after hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation (HS/R). C57B1/6 wild-type (WT) and IL-6 knockout (KO) mice on a C57B1/6 background were subjected to either a sham procedure or HS/R. Organ and tissue samples were obtained 4 h after resuscitation. In WT mice, HS/R significantly increased ileal mucosal permeability to fluorescein isothiocyanate-1abeled dextran (average molecular mass, 4 kDa) and bacterial translocation to mesenteric lymph nodes. These alterations in gut barrier function were not observed in IL-6 KO animals. HS/R increased ileal steady-state mRNA levels for IL-6, TNF, and IL-10 in WT but not in IL-6 KO mice. Ileal mucosal expression of the tight junction protein, ZO-1, decreased after HS/R in WT but not IL-6 KO mice. Collectively, these data support the view that expression of IL-6 is essential for the development of gut barrier dysfunction after HS/R. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses a study on the biological function of kpm, a human serine/threonine kinase that is homologous to Drosophila tumor suppressor warts and its mammalian homologue LATS1. Stable transfectants of wild-type kpm; Western blot analysis results; Levels of expression of kpm induced after the removal of doxycycline.

Neutrophil motility is crucial to effective host defenses against microorganisms. While uropod retraction is a critical step in the migration of neutrophils, the underlying molecular mechanism is not well understood. Here, we show that inhibition of the Rho small GTPase with C3 exoenzyme prevented the retraction of trailing uropods, indicating that the process of rear release is mediated by a Rho signaling pathway. C3 exoenzyme caused marked elongation of directionally migrating neutrophils, suggesting an additional role for Rho in the maintenance of functional polarized cell shape. We also show that phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of the plasma membrane–actin filament cross-linker moesin are spatiotemporally controlled in migrating neutrophils. In particular, phosphorylation of moesin at threonine 558 depended on Rho activity. Videomicroscopy showed that dephosphorylation of this carboxy-terminal threonine preceded uropod retraction. Calyculin A, an inhibitor of type 1 and type 2A serine/threonine phosphatases, suppressed the moesin dephosphorylation and impaired uropod retraction in a dose-dependent manner. Cypermethrin, an inhibitor of type 2B serine/threonine phosphatase, had no such effects. The finding that Rho small GTPase and type 1/type 2A phosphatases are involved in rear release yields novel insights into the biochemical mechanisms of neutrophil migration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A dual-pass differential Fabry–Perot interferometer (DPDFPI) is one candidate of the interferometer configurations utilized in future Fabry–Perot type space gravitational wave antennas, such as Deci-hertz Interferometer Gravitational wave Observatory. In this paper, the working principle of the DPDFPI has been investigated and necessity to adjust the absolute length of the cavity for the operation of the DPDFPI has been found. In addition, using the 55 cm-long prototype, the operation of the DPDFPI has been demonstrated for the first time and it has been confirmed that the adjustment of the absolute arm length reduces the cavity detuning as expected. This work provides the proof of concept of the DPDFPI for application to the future Fabry–Perot type space gravitational wave antennas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of pneumonia following bronchoscopy is a very important post-bronchoscopic complication, while lung abscesses after bronchoscopy are rare. However, bronchoscopic techniques have advanced, and recently, we have observed patients with lung abscess after bronchoscopy. Therefore, the risk factors might vary from those in past reports. This study was performed to identify the incidence of and risk factors for post-bronchoscopy respiratory infections. We retrospectively studied adult patients diagnosed with lung cancer by bronchoscopy at Fukujuji Hospital from January 2017 to June 2019. The infection and noninfection groups were compared. The incidence of lung abscess was compared between recent periods and 2013, when endobronchial ultrasonography with a guide sheath (EBUS-GS) was not yet used in our hospital. We reviewed 327 patients, including 20 patients (6.1%) with infections. The risk factors for infection were necrosis and/or a cavity in the tumor (p < 0.001), a large tumor diameter (≥30 mm) (p = 0.010), and a low serum albumin level (<4.0 g/dL) (p = 0.010). We developed a predictive score with these risk factors, and the area under the curve was 0.737 (95% Cl: 0.610–0.864). No significant differences in age, current smoking status, or abnormal bronchoscopic findings were observed, although these were previously reported as risk factors. In total, 12 patients had lung abscesses (3.7%), which is a higher incidence than that in 2013 (0.8%). The risk factors for developing post-bronchoscopy respiratory infection in our study varied from those in past reports, possibly because of the advancements in bronchoscopic techniques, such as EBUS-GS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing amount of orbital debris is becoming a serious concern for space development activities. To remedy the situation, it is necessary to prevent new debris generation through highly probable post-mission disposal operations and remove existing large debris objects from crowded orbits. An electrodynamic tether (EDT) is a promising deorbit propulsion device for both purposes, as it is propellant-less in principle and thus simple and cost effective. An on-orbit EDT experiment called the Kounotori Integrated Tether Experiment (KITE) was conducted in early 2017 on the sixth H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV-6) for demonstrating and raising the maturity of the core EDT technologies. In the KITE mission, EDT operation was planned using the combination of a bare tether (720 m long) and a field emission cathode (FEC). Although tether deployment was unsuccessful due to a mechanical malfunction of the holding & releasing mechanism of the end-mass, the FEC operated successfully throughout the mission period and demonstrated its capabilities in low Earth orbit (LEO). Another KITE device – an electrical potential monitor called LP-POM – also operated successfully from HTV launch to re-entry, obtaining engineering and scientific results. In addition to these experimental results, the lessons learned during the development process are meaningful for future EDT research and development. • An on-orbit experiment of an electrodynamic tether (called KITE) was conducted. • KITE features the combination of a net-like bare tether and a field emission cathode. • End-mass was not released by a mechanical trouble, so the tether was not deployed. • The field emission cathode operated successfully and showed its capabilities in space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A laser strainmeter with a 1500-m baseline was constructed at an underground site in Kamioka, Gifu Prefecture, Japan, and has been operating since August 2016. The laser interferometer measures the change in distance between two retroreflectors housed in two vacuum chambers with a separation of 1500 m. The retroreflectors are fixed to the ground in the tunnel of the KAGRA gravitational wave telescope. A high-frequency-stabilized laser is used as a light source; it achieves an Allan variance of 3 × 10. Since operations began, ground motions with large amplitude and timescale variations have been detected. The recorded tidal waveform almost agrees with the theoretical waveform; however, a slight difference of ~13% in amplitude is found, likely due to a topographic effect. The strain spectrum of the observed data for the 1500-m strainmeter indicates that the lowest background noise attained is less than 10 in the mHz band. Seismic waves up to 6 × 10 in amplitude have been observed without saturation or fringe steps. The strainmeter, with its excellent resolution, dynamic range, and bandwidth performance, provides a new method for observing low-frequency ground motion on seismic, geodetic, and intermediate timescales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 74-year-old male suffering from congestive heart failure with atrial tachycardia (AT) with 2 : 1 atrioventricular conduction was admitted to our hospital. After the therapy with diuretics and β-blocker, his rapid AT was still sustained. He took the catheter ablation for his AT. Postpacing interval mapping from entrainment and noncontact mapping system revealed the mechanism of his AT, originated from sinus venosa. His AT was successfully terminated and eliminated by radiofrequency catheter ablation. After the successful ablation, he has been free from any AT, and his cardiac function was also improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study in which index atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation was performed in an 85-year-old man with drug-resistant paroxysmal AF who was under sedation and the pulmonary vein (PV) potentials are questioned. The article notes small sharp signals with 110 milliseconds of the delay from sinus P wave onset, recorded on a mapping catheter, remained at the anterior part of the right superior PV (RSPV).

The article presents a case study of a 47 year old woman with regular wide QRS tachycardia without any structural heart disease who was was referred to a medical center for catheter ablation. A discussion of the mechanisms which could have led to the patient's regular wide QRS tachycardia is presented.