Mixotrophic culture enhances fucoxanthin production in the haptophyte Pavlova gyrans.

Fucoxanthin is a versatile substance in the food and pharmaceutical industries owing to its excellent antioxidant and anti-obesity properties. Several microalgae, including the haptophyte Pavlova spp., can produce fucoxanthin and are potential industrial fucoxanthin producers, as they lack rigid cell walls, which facilitates fucoxanthin extraction. However, the commercial application of Pavlova spp. is limited owing to insufficient biomass production. In this study, we aimed to develop a mixotrophic cultivation method to increase biomass and fucoxanthin production in Pavlova gyrans OPMS 30543X. The effects of culturing OPMS 30543X with different organic carbon sources, glycerol concentrations, mixed-nutrient conditions, and light intensities on the consumption of organic carbon sources, biomass production, and fucoxanthin accumulation were analyzed. Several organic carbon sources, such as glycerol, glucose, sucrose, and acetate, were examined, revealing that glycerol was well-consumed by the microalgae. Biomass and fucoxanthin production by OPMS 30543X increased in the presence of 10 mM glycerol compared to that observed without glycerol. Metabolomic analysis revealed higher levels of the metabolites related to the glycolytic, Calvin-Benson-Bassham, and tricarboxylic acid cycles under mixotrophic conditions than under autotrophic conditions. Cultures grown under mixotrophic conditions with a light intensity of 100 µmol photons m-2 s-1 produced more fucoxanthin than autotrophic cultures. Notably, the amount of fucoxanthin produced (18.9 mg/L) was the highest reported thus far for Pavlova species. In conclusion, the use of mixotrophic culture is a promising strategy for increasing fucoxanthin production in Pavlova species. KEY POINTS: • Glycerol enhances biomass and fucoxanthin production in Pavlova gyrans • Metabolite levels increase under mixotrophic conditions • Mixotrophic conditions and medium-light intensity are appropriate for P. gyrans.

Association between the executive dysfunction and balance function in patients with stroke.

INTRODUCTION: A previous study has shown an association between executive dysfunction (ED) and balance function in patients with stroke. However, it is unclear what factors mediate the association between ED and balance function. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between ED and balance function and to identify mediating factors using mediation analysis. METHODS: This study had a cross-sectional design. The study included 107 patients with stroke. This study was divided into two groups (ED and non-ED) using trail making test (TMT) part B. Two groups were compared for balance function (timed up and go test [TUGT] and Berg balance scale [BBS]) and other variables using paired test. In addition, partial correlation analysis with age, cognitive function as a control factor, and mediation analysis were also performed. RESULTS: The ED group (N = 55) had significantly lower TUGT and BBS scores than the non-ED group (N = 52). TMT part B correlated with TUGT (ρ = 0.41), BBS (ρ = -0.33), and Brunnstrom recovery stage (BRS) lower limb (ρ = -0.22). The TUGT model of mediation analysis showed a significant indirect effect as a result of mediation of the BRS lower limb between TMT part B and TUGT. The BBS model showed a significant indirect effect as a result of mediation of the activities of daily living (ADL) motor function between TMT part B and BBS. CONCLUSIONS: ED and balance function were associated, and the degree of paralysis and ADL motor function were associated with them in patients with stroke.

Clinical impact of fluoropolymer-based drug-eluting stent thrombosis in femoropopliteal artery occlusive lesions.

BACKGROUND: Endovascular treatment (EVT) is recommended for superficial femoral artery (SFA) lesions, and good results have been reported after implantation of drug-eluting stents (DES) for SFA. However, the major concern after implantation is acute thrombosis during the follow-up period, resulting in major amputation and major adverse limb events. In this study, we examined the incidence and outcome of acute thrombosis after DES implantation in the SFA. OBJECTIVES AND METHODS: DES implantation for a femoropopliteal lesion was performed in 288 patients at multiple centers in Japan from 2019 to 2021. A total of 25 patients (8.6%) with DES acute occlusion were analyzed retrospectively. The primary endpoint was amputation-free survival (AFS) after acute occlusion. RESULTS: The median patient age was 77 years, with 48% having diabetes, 40% undergoing maintenance dialysis, and 66% having chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI). The mean time from initial DES implantation to acute occlusion was 153.5 ± 177.6 days, with a median of 104 days. EVT was performed in 18 patients (72%), surgical revascularization in 3 (12%), and conservative treatment in 4 (16%). Two deaths within 30 days were both due to sepsis. No major amputation or major adverse cardiovascular events occurred within 30 days. The 1-year rates of patency and freedom from target lesion revascularization after DES thrombosis were 22.9% and 48.8%, respectively. AFS at 1 year was 55.1%. CONCLUSION: Acute DES occlusion is relatively frequent, and the outcome is poor. Therefore, the indication of DES implantation for a complex SFA lesion may require careful consideration. Further investigation may be needed in DES implantation for a complex SFA lesion.

The Impact of Multileaf Collimator Size on Single Isocenter Dynamic Conformal Arcs-Based Radiosurgery for Brain Metastases.

PURPOSE: To compare the plan quality of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) between 2.5-mm and 5-mm multileaf collimator (MLC) and investigate the factors' influence on the differences by MLC size. METHODS: Seventy-six treatment plans including 145 targets calculated with a single isocenter multiple noncoplanar dynamic conformal arc (DCA) technique using automatic multiple brain metastases (MBM) treatment planning system. Conformity index (CI), gradient index (GI), lesion underdosage volume factor (LUF), healthy tissue overdose volume factor (HTOF), geometric conformity index (g), and mean dose to normal organs were compared between 2.5-mm and 5-mm MLC. Then the factors that influenced the differences of these parameters were investigated. The impact of target size was also investigated for CI and GI values of individual targets (n=145), and differences between 2.5-mm and 5-mm MLC were analyzed. RESULTS: All parameters except for LUF were significantly better in plans with 2.5 mm MLC. Target size was a significant factor for difference in HTOF, and distance between targets was a significant factor for difference in brain dose and GI. Among 145 metastases, the average inverse CI was 1.35 and 1.47 with 2.5-mm and 5-mm MLC, respectively (p<0.001). The average GI was 3.21 and 3.53, respectively (p<0.001). For individual targets, target size was a significant factor in CI and GI both with 2.5-mm and 5-mm MLC (p-value: <0.001, each). CI and GI were significantly better with 2.5-mm than 5-mm MLC. CI was almost >0.67 except for ≤5mm targets with 5-mm MLC. Also, GI was almost smaller than 3.0 for >10 mm targets both with 2.5-mm and 5-mm MLC. CONCLUSIONS: MBM with 5-mm MLC was almost fine. However, it may be better to use a conservative margin for larger metastases. It may also be better to avoid SRS with 5-mm MLC for patients with ≤5 mm target size.

Work engagement of psychiatric nurses: a scoping review.

OBJECTIVES: Work engagement is an essential factor in improving employee performance. However, no reviews on the work engagement of psychiatric nurses have been conducted to date. This study aimed to examine the current status of research on the work engagement of psychiatric nurses and identify salient factors. DESIGN: A scoping review. METHODS: This review adhered to the established scoping review methodological guidelines and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews checklist. The inclusion criteria were based on nurses, work engagement and psychiatric settings without language or date restrictions. Regardless of the methodology or study design, research studies related to the work engagement of psychiatric nurses have been included. A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL and PsycINFO from the inception of each database, with the search strategies being set by an information specialist. The deadline for the search was 15 February 2023. RESULTS: The study included 12 studies. All studies have been published since 2013. The study designs included cross-sectional (n=10), longitudinal (n=1) and intervention (n=1) studies. The impacts of work engagement were classified into (1) attitudes towards patients, (2) attitudes towards work, (3) mental health and (4) quality of care. Factors influencing work engagement were classified into (1) demographics, (2) workplace factors, (3) individual factors and (4) patient factors. CONCLUSION: Work engagement of psychiatric nurses has lately gained attention, although data are limited because most studies used a cross-sectional design. Psychiatric nurses with higher work engagement showed positive outcomes. Workplace and individual factors can potentially improve their work engagement. The findings can assist nursing managers in enhancing psychiatric nurses' work engagement and, consequently, their performance.

Comparison of Aversion to Visual Dental Stimuli Between Patients and Dentists: A Preliminary Study.

Purpose: Fearful dental patients often cite various dental instruments or procedures as triggers for their dental fear. Thus, visual dental stimuli provoke anxiety. This preliminary study aimed to assess the level of aversion to visual stimuli in dental patients and compare it with that in dentists. Patients and Methods: A total of 43 dental patients (25 women, 18 men; average age, 29.9 ± 13.3 years; patient group) and 13 dentists (4 women, 9 men; average age, 28.2 ± 2.0 years; dentist group) were included. All participants had previously undergone dental treatment. The dental fear level was assessed using the self-reported Dental Fear Survey (DFS). Thirty-two images associated with dental treatment were prepared and classified into three categories: dental instruments, dental procedures, and the dental environment. All participants rated their level of disgust toward each image on a visual analog scale with scores ranging from 0 to 100. Results: In the patient group, the disgust ratings for tooth extraction, dental drilling, and local anesthesia were >60, which were significantly different from those in the dentist group (Mann-Whitney U-test, p<0.001, p=0.001, and p=0.001, respectively). The ranking order of the disgust ratings for the 32 images showed significant correlation between the patient and dentist groups (Spearman correlation coefficient, r=0.80, p<0.001). In the patient group, the disgust ratings for dental impressions and the interdental brush, dental light, and dental chair were significantly correlated with DFS scores (r=0.61, p<0.001; r=0.47, p=0.001; r=0.41, p=0.006; and r=0.40, p=0.008, respectively). Conclusion: This study revealed that patients have more negative feelings toward invasive procedures than dentists. However, a significant correlation was identified between the ranking of aversion-provoking dental stimuli by patients and dentists. Furthermore, the level of aversion to several dental-related items that do not cause pain was correlated with the dental fear level.

Enhancing Long-Term Durability of Electrochemical Reactors Producing Formate from CO2 and Water Designed for Integration with Solar Cells.

Artificial photosynthetic cells producing organic matter from CO2 and water have been extensively studied for carbon neutrality, and the research trend is currently transitioning from proof of concept using small-sized cells to large-scale demonstrations for practical applications. We previously demonstrated a 1 m2 size cell in which an electrochemical (EC) reactor featuring a ruthenium (Ru)-complex polymer (RuCP) cathode catalyst was integrated with photovoltaic cells. In this study, we tackled the remaining issue to improve the long-term durability of cathode electrodes used in the EC reactors, demonstrating high Faradaic efficiencies exceeding 80% and around 60% electricity-to-chemical energy-conversion efficiencies of a 75 cm2 sized EC reactor after continuous operation for 3000 h under practical conditions. Introduction of a pyrrole derivative containing an amino group in the RuCP coupled with UV-ozone treatment to create carboxyl groups on the carbon supports effectively reduced the detachment of the RuCP catalyst by forming a strong amide linkage. A newly developed chemically resistant graphite adhesive prevented the carbon supports from peeling off of the conductive substrates. In addition, highly durable anodes composed of IrOx-TaOy/Pt-metal oxide/Ti were adopted. Even though the EC reactor was installed at an inclined angle of 30°, which is approximately the optimal angle for receiving more solar energy, the crossover reactions were sufficiently suppressed because the porous separator film impeded the transfer of oxygen gas bubbles from the anode to the cathode. The intermittent operation improved the energy-conversion efficiency because the accumulated bubbles were removed at night.

Cerebral activation caused by dental sounds: a functional magnetic resonance imaging study.

Dental drilling sounds can induce anxiety in some patients. This study aimed to use functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to assess the relationship between dental fear and auditory stimuli. Thirty-four right-handed individuals (21 women and 13 men; average age, 31.2 years) were selected. The level of dental fear was assessed using the dental fear survey (DFS). Based on a threshold DFS score > 52, participants were categorized into two groups: dental fear (DF) group (n = 12) and control group (n = 22). Two types of stimuli were presented in a single session: dental and neutral sounds. Cerebral activation during the presentation of these sounds was evaluated using contrast-enhanced blood oxygenation level-dependent fMRI. In the DF group, dental sounds induced significantly stronger activation in the left inferior frontal gyrus and left caudate nucleus (one-sample t test, P < 0.001). In contrast, in the control group, significantly stronger activation was observed in the bilateral Heschl's gyri and left middle frontal gyrus (one-sample t test, P < 0.001). Additionally, a two-sample t test revealed that dental sounds induced a significantly stronger activation in the left caudate nucleus in the DF group than in the control group (P < 0.005). These findings suggest that the cerebral activation pattern in individuals with DF differs from that in controls. Increased activation of subcortical regions may be associated with sound memory during dental treatment.

Single isocenter dynamic conformal arcs-based radiosurgery for brain metastases: Dosimetric comparison with Cyberknife and clinical investigation.

Purpose: To compare the dosimetric quality of automatic multiple brain metastases planning (MBM) with that of Cyberknife (CK) based on the clinical tumor condition, such as the tumor number, size, and location. Methods: 76 treatment plans for 46 patients treated with CK were recalculated with the MBM treatment planning system. Conformity index (CI), homogeneity index (HI), gradient index (GI), lesion underdosage volume factor (LUF), healthy tissue overdose volume factor (HTOF), geometric conformity index (g) and mean dose to normal organs were compared between CK and MBM for tumor number, size, shape and distance from the brainstem or chiasm. Results: The results showed that the mean brain dose was significantly smaller in MBM than CK. CI did not differ between MBM and CK; however, HI was significantly more ideal in CK (p = 0.000), and GI was significantly smaller in MBM (P = 0.000). LUF was larger in CK (p = 0.000) and HTOF and g was larger in MBM (p = 0.003, and 0.012). For single metastases, CK had significantly better HTOF (p = 0.000) and g (p = 0.002), but there were no differences for multiple tumors. Brain dose in MBM was significantly lower and CI was higher for tumors < 30 mm (p = 0.000 and 0.000), whereas HTOF and g for tumors < 10 mm were significantly smaller in CK (p = 0.041 and p = 0.016). Among oval tumors, brain dose, GI and LUF were smaller in MBM, but HTOF and g were smaller in CK. There were no particular trends for tumors close to the brainstem, but HTOF tended to be smaller in CK (0.03 vs. 0.29, p = 0.068) for tumors inside the brainstem. Conclusions: MBM can reduce the brain dose while achieving a dose distribution quality equivalent to that with CK.

Glycogen deficiency enhances carbon partitioning into glutamate for an alternative extracellular metabolic sink in cyanobacteria.

Glycogen serves as a metabolic sink in cyanobacteria. Glycogen deficiency causes the extracellular release of distinctive metabolites such as pyruvate and 2-oxoglutarate upon nitrogen depletion; however, the mechanism has not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to elucidate the mechanism of carbon partitioning in glycogen-deficient cyanobacteria. Extracellular and intracellular metabolites in a glycogen-deficient ΔglgC mutant of Synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942 were comprehensively analyzed. In the presence of a nitrogen source, the ΔglgC mutant released extracellular glutamate rather than pyruvate and 2-oxoglutarate, whereas its intracellular glutamate level was lower than that in the wild-type strain. The de novo synthesis of glutamate increased in the ΔglgC mutant, suggesting that glycogen deficiency enhanced carbon partitioning into glutamate and extracellular excretion through an unidentified transport system. This study proposes a model in which glutamate serves as the prime extracellular metabolic sink alternative to glycogen when nitrogen is available.

Effect of aromatherapy with peppermint essential oil on the gag reflex: a randomized, placebo-controlled, single-blind, crossover study.

BACKGROUND: Sensitive gag reflexes prevent dental patients from receiving appropriate treatment. Aromatherapy helps patients relax during dental procedures. However, the effect of aromatherapy on the gag reflex caused by the stimulation of the oral cavity is unknown. This study aimed to evaluate whether aromatherapy reduces gag reflexes during oral stimulation. METHODS: In this randomized, placebo-controlled, single-blind, crossover study, the gag reflexes of 24 healthy individuals (12 females and 12 males; mean age: 34.3 ± 9.5 years) were quantified. A standard saliva ejector was slowly guided down the participant's throat to determine the maximum tolerance of the gag reflex, and the insertion distance was measured to quantify the gag reflex. All individuals participated in an aromatherapy session with peppermint essential oil and a placebo session with distilled water. The gag reflex was quantified before (baseline) and after each session. Another measurement was performed using nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation as a positive control. RESULTS: Gag reflex values significantly increased after aromatherapy with both peppermint essential oil and placebo compared to baseline values (paired t-test, P < 0.001 and P = 0.014, respectively). The gag reflex value also increased significantly during nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation (paired t-test, P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the increase rate of gag reflex values between the positive control and aromatherapy interventions, but it was significantly lower after the placebo intervention (repeated measures analysis of variance, P = 0.003; post-hoc test, P = 0.83 and P = 0.02). CONCLUSION: Aromatherapy with peppermint essential oil has the potential for reducing gag reflex during dental procedures. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was registered in the University hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry under the code UMIN000050616 (approved 17/03/2023).

ppGpp accumulation reduces the expression of the global nitrogen homeostasis-modulating NtcA regulon by affecting 2-oxoglutarate levels.

The cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942 accumulates alarmone guanosine tetraphosphate (ppGpp) under stress conditions, such as darkness. A previous study observed that artificial ppGpp accumulation under photosynthetic conditions led to the downregulation of genes involved in the nitrogen assimilation system, which is activated by the global nitrogen regulator NtcA, suggesting that ppGpp regulates NtcA activity. However, the details of this mechanism have not been elucidated. Here, we investigate the metabolic responses associated with ppGpp accumulation by heterologous expression of the ppGpp synthetase RelQ. The pool size of 2-oxoglutarate (2-OG), which activates NtcA, is significantly decreased upon ppGpp accumulation. De novo 13C-labeled CO2 assimilation into the Calvin-Benson-Bassham cycle and glycolytic intermediates continues irrespective of ppGpp accumulation, whereas the labeling of 2-OG is significantly decreased under ppGpp accumulation. The low 2-OG levels in the RelQ overexpression cells could be because of the inhibition of metabolic enzymes, including aconitase, which are responsible for 2-OG biosynthesis. We propose a metabolic rearrangement by ppGpp accumulation, which negatively regulates 2-OG levels to maintain carbon and nitrogen balance.

Time-varying overdispersion of SARS-CoV-2 transmission during the periods when different variants of concern were circulating in Japan.

Japan has implemented a cluster-based approach for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) from the pandemic's beginning based on the transmission heterogeneity (overdispersion) of severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, studies analyzing overdispersion of transmission among new variants of concerns (VOCs), especially for Omicron, were limited. Thus, we aimed to clarify how the transmission heterogeneity has changed with the emergence of VOCs (Alpha, Delta, and Omicron) using detailed contact tracing data in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. We estimated the time-varying dispersion parameter ([Formula: see text]) by fitting a negative binomial distribution for each transmission generation. Our results showed that even after the emergence of VOCs, there was transmission heterogeneity of SARS-CoV-2, with changes in [Formula: see text] during each wave. Continuous monitoring of transmission dynamics is vital for implementing appropriate measures. However, a feasible and sustainable epidemiological analysis system should be established to make this possible.

The Subchondral Bone Condition During Microfracture Affects the Repair of the Osteochondral Unit in the Cartilage Defect in the Rat Model.

BACKGROUND: Microfracture (MF) is frequently performed as a first-line treatment for articular cartilage defects. Although good clinical outcomes are often obtained in the short term, poor clinical outcomes sometimes occur because of subchondral bone deterioration. The condition of the subchondral bone treated with MF may affect the repair of the osteochondral unit. PURPOSE: To analyze histological findings of the osteochondral unit after performing MF on subchondral bone in different states-normal, absorption, and sclerosis-in a rat model. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. METHODS: Full-thickness cartilage defects (5.0 × 3.0 mm) were created in the weightbearing area of the medial femoral condyle in both knees of 47 Sprague-Dawley rats. Five MF holes were created within the cartilage defect using a 0.55-mm needle to a depth of 1 mm at 0 weeks (normal group), 2 weeks (absorption group), and 4 weeks (sclerosis group) after the cartilage defect was created. In the left knee, MF holes were filled with ß-tricalcium phosphate (ß-TCP). At 2 and 4 weeks after MF, knee joints were harvested and histologically analyzed. RESULTS: MF holes were enlarged at 2 weeks and further enlarged at 4 weeks in all groups. In the absorption group, osteoclast accumulation around the MF holes and cyst formation were observed. The trabecular bone surrounding the MF holes was thickened in the sclerosis group. The diameter of the MF hole was largest in the absorption group at 2 and 4 weeks after MF compared with the other groups. No subchondral bone cysts were observed after ß-TCP implantation. Pineda scores in all groups were significantly better with ß-TCP implantation than without ß-TCP implantation at 2 and 4 weeks. CONCLUSION: MF for subchondral bone with bone absorption induced enlargement of the MF holes, cyst formation, and delay of cartilage defect coverage. Implantation of ß-TCP into the MF holes enhanced remodeling of the MF holes and improved repair of the osteochondral unit compared with MF only. Therefore, the condition of the subchondral bone treated with MF affects repair of the osteochondral unit in a cartilage defect.

Improvement in persistent idiopathic facial pain with comorbid ADHD using the combination of a dopamine system stabilizer and psychostimulant: A case report.

Key Clinical Message: Persistent idiopathic facial pain (PIFP) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may coexist and can be improved with ADHD medications. Thus, clinicians should screen for ADHD by a multidisciplinary approach when treating PIFP and differentiate between other odontogenic disorders. Abstract: We report a case of a woman with persistent idiopathic facial pain (PIFP) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) that markedly improved with the administration of a combination of aripiprazole (APZ) and methylphenidate (MP) treatment. Screening for ADHD and administration of APZ and/or MP may be considered in treating PIFP.

Circular cell culture for sustainable food production using recombinant lactate-assimilating cyanobacteria that supplies pyruvate and amino acids.

Recently, we reported a circular cell culture (CCC) system using microalgae and animal muscle cells for sustainable culture food production. However, lactate accumulation excreted by animal cells in the system characterized by medium reuse was a huge problem. To solve the problem, as an advanced CCC, we used a lactate-assimilating cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. PCC 7002, using gene-recombination technology that synthesises pyruvate from lactate. We found that the cyanobacteria and animal cells mutually exchanged substances via their waste media: (i) cyanobacteria used lactate and ammonia excreted by animal muscle cells, and (ii) the animal cells used pyruvate and some amino acids excreted by the cyanobacteria. Because of this, animal muscle C2C12 cells were amplified efficiently without animal serum in cyanobacterial culture waste medium in two cycles (first cycle: 3.6-fold; second cycle: 3.9-fold/three days-cultivation) using the same reuse medium. We believe that this advanced CCC system will solve the problem of lactate accumulation in cell culture and lead to efficient cultured food production.

Case report: Remission of chronic low back pain and oral dysesthesia comorbid with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder by treatment with atomoxetine and pramipexole.

Introduction: Oral dysesthesia is a disease characterized by pain and/or abnormal sensations in the oral region, without any organic abnormality. Its symptoms include pain, and it is considered to be a disorder associated with idiopathic oral-facial pain. It is also known that idiopathic oral-facial pain tends to coexist with chronic musculoskeletal pain, including low back pain, even before its onset. Such coexisting idiopathic pain conditions are also called chronic overlapping pain conditions (COPCs). In general, COPCs are often refractory to treatment. Recently, it has been reported that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with many COPCs, such as pain in the facial and lower back regions and so on. However, there are no reports of (1) ADHD as a comorbidity with oral dysesthesia (OD) or (2) of the therapeutic effects of ADHD medications or dopamine agonists on low back pain and OD or an (3) evaluation of cerebral blood flow over time after treatment with these medications for OD and low back pain. Case Presentation: In this study, we report the case of an 80-year-old man with OD and chronic low back pain that persisted for more than 25 years. His OD and chronic back pain were refractory to standard treatment, prevented him from continuing work, and tended to be exacerbated by conflicts in his relationship with his son. In recent years, ADHD has often been found to be comorbid with chronic pain, and ADHD medications have been reported to improve chronic pain as well. The patient was confirmed to have undiagnosed ADHD and was treated with the ADHD medication atomoxetine and dopamine agonist pramipexole, which dramatically improved his OD, chronic back pain, and cognitive function. Furthermore, along the course of treatment, there was improvement in cerebral blood flow in his prefrontal cortex, which was thought to reflect improved function in the region. Consequently, he was able to resume work and improve his family relationships. Conclusion: Therefore, in the cases of ODs and COPCs, screening for ADHD and, if ADHD is diagnosed, ADHD medications or dopamine agonists may be considered.

L-Lactate treatment by photosynthetic cyanobacteria expressing heterogeneous L-lactate dehydrogenase.

L-Lactate is a major waste compound in cultured animal cells. To develop a sustainable animal cell culture system, we aimed to study the consumption of L-lactate using a photosynthetic microorganism. As genes involved in L-lactate utilization were not found in most cyanobacteria and microalgae, we introduced the NAD-independent L-lactate dehydrogenase gene from Escherichia coli (lldD) into Synechococcus sp. PCC 7002. The lldD-expressing strain consumed L-lactate added to basal medium. This consumption was accelerated by expression of a lactate permease gene from E. coli (lldP) and an increase in culture temperature. Intracellular levels of acetyl-CoA, citrate, 2-oxoglutarate, succinate, and malate, and extracellular levels of 2-oxoglutarate, succinate, and malate, increased during L-lactate utilization, suggesting that the metabolic flux from L-lactate was distributed toward the tricarboxylic acid cycle. This study provides a perspective on L-lactate treatment by photosynthetic microorganisms, which would increase the feasibility of animal cell culture industries.

Relationships among hip instability, iliofemoral ligament, and pain in patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the relationships among hip instability, pain, and morphology of the iliofemoral ligament (ILFL) in patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) using ultrasonography (US). METHODS: We reviewed 86 patients (109 hips) with DDH (Group D), 40 patients (46 hips) with borderline hip dysplasia (BDDH) (Group B) and 20 patients (23 hips) without hip pain and bony abnormality (control group). Group D was classified into three subgroups-the severe (group SP), moderate (group MP), and none/mild (group NMP) hip pain groups-using the visual analogue scale (VAS). For evaluating hip instability and ILFL morphology, the distance between the anterior edge of the anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS) and the horizontal line to the femoral head, and ILFL thickness were measured using US. The difference between the distance in the neutral position and Patrick position was calculated and defined as the femoral head translation distance (FTD). RESULTS: FTD and ILFL thickness in group D were significantly larger than those in the control group and group B (P < 0.05). There was a significant positive correlation between FTD and ILFL thickness in three groups (r = 0.57, P < 0.05; r = 0.55, P < 0.05; r = 0.62, P < 0.05, respectively). FTD and ILFL thickness in group SP were significantly larger than those in group NMP (P < 0.05). FTD and ILFL thickness in group D had significantly negative correlations with the lateral center edge (r = -0.54, P < 0.05; r = -0.40, P < 0.05, respectively) and vertical-center-anterior angle (r = -0.51, P < 0.05; r = -0.43, P < 0.05, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Acetabular bony deficiency, especially in the anterior and lateral region can result in antero-posterior hip instability, leading to thickened ILFL and hip pain, even in patients with BDDH. These findings may facilitate our understanding and treatment of patients with DDH. When hip instability is suspected, hip US examination may help confirm the diagnosis and assist in providing objective clinical diagnostic evidence.

Size distributions of cellulose nanocrystals in dispersions using the centrifugal sedimentation method.

Nanocellulose is a remarkable biomaterial. It is a plastic alternative with significance from the viewpoint of carbon offset and neutrality. To efficiently develop nanocellulose-based functional materials, it is imperative to evaluate their dispersion states. In this study, the sedimentation equivalent diameter distributions of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) are analyzed by centrifugal sedimentation. The diameter distribution is well correlated with that estimated from the widths and the lengths of the CNCs obtained by transmission electron microscopy. Hence, centrifugal sedimentation has the potential to assess the dispersion states of nanocellulose on the nanometer scale and should contribute to basic research and applications.