Bunkyo Gakuin University

Paneth cell metaplasia (PCM) is a phenomenon in which Paneth cells, typically found in the small intestine, appear in the colonic epithelium of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Our study demonstrates that the PCM occurrence correlates with disease duration and active inflammation. Furthermore, we identified IL-22, an inflammation-associated cytokine, as a key regulator that promotes PCM formation in the colonic epithelium through suppression of Notch signaling and induces REG3A expression within metaplastic niches. In vitro, we show that Reg3a directly enhances cell proliferation and promotes wound healing using mouse colonic organoids. In vivo, Reg3aΔIEC mice in both acute and chronic DSS-induced colitis models exhibit delayed wound healing. Additionally, studies conducted with patient-derived human colonic organoids revealed that REG3A administration stimulates cell proliferation and accelerates wound healing. Together, these findings support a protective role of PCM-associated REG3A in the colonic epithelium of patients with UC.

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide, with a greater impact on low- and middle-income countries, particularly coastal communities that depend on fragile ecosystems. This study explores the effects of sociodemographic, behavioral, and metabolic factors on CVD incidence among the coastal population of Soropia, Konawe, Southeast Sulawesi. This research employs a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design and applies Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using Smart PLS software. Data collection was conducted through standardized questionnaires and physical examinations. The findings reveal that age significantly reduces CVD risk (p = 0.043, Exp(B) = 0.378), while gender and occupation show no significant impact. Among behavioral factors, a history of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) significantly lowers CVD risk (p = 0.024, Exp(B) = 0.158), whereas smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical activity are not associated with CVD Risk. In the metabolic group, Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) is the only significant factor influencing metabolic risk (p = 0.026, Exp(B) = 0.615). Other metabolic markers, including waist circumference and blood glucose, show weak associations. These results highlight the critical role of addressing behavioral and metabolic risk factors in reducing CVD burden, particularly through targeted public health interventions tailored to the unique challenges faced by coastal populations. The study underscores the importance of integrating behavioral modifications and metabolic risk management in health programs to mitigate CVD risks effectively.

Single-use plastics (SUPs) are deeply embedded in everyday consumption in rapidly developing Asian cities, yet their widespread use contributes to marine debris, microplastic pollution, and health risks. This study aimed to inform evidence-based policymaking to mitigate marine plastic pollution in the ASEAN+3 region. Stratified random sampling surveys (n = 1492) were conducted both face to face and online across five representative cities between September 2022 and February 2023. We quantified and compared the consumption and disposal patterns across nine SUP categories, assessed demographic influences, evaluated the impact of COVID-19, and derived insights for targeted policy interventions. Non-parametric tests were used to evaluate the differences. The results reveal significant inter-city variation: Shanghai and Harbin reported high overall SUP use despite a lower consumption of plastic shopping bags; Hanoi and Depok showed lower overall use but distinct preferences for plastic shopping bags and party cups; and Phnom Penh had the highest consumption of plastic shopping bags, bottles, and straws. Plastic shopping bags were the most used item in all cities (18–34 bags per week), with no significant differences between urban and rural areas, ages, or genders. In contrast, urban residents reported a higher use of plastic takeout containers, cutlery, coffee cups, and party cups. The COVID-19 pandemic notably reshaped SUP consumption patterns. Additionally, over half of SUPs were disposed of without proper separation. These findings underscore the need for flexible, phased, and context-specific interventions to support a resilient circular economy.

[Purpose] We investigated the relationship between pelvic and thoracic vertebral rotation movements during gait by analyzing the thoracic vertebrae in several segments. [Participants and Methods] Eighteen young male subjects participated in this study. Their pelvic and thoracic spinal rotational movements during gait were measured using a three-dimensional motion analysis system. The thoracic spine was analyzed in four segments (T2, T4, T7, and T10), and waveform correlation coefficients and rotational amplitudes were calculated for each segment. [Results] The waveform correlation coefficients showed a strong positive correlation between the pelvis and the T7 and T10 vertebrae. In terms of rotational amplitude, T7 and T10 exhibited similar rotation to the pelvis, indicating a positive correlation with pelvic rotation. [Conclusion] The lower thoracic vertebrae rotated ipsilaterally with the pelvis during gait, demonstrating coordinated movement. These findings highlight the importance of detailed analysis of the thoracic vertebral segments as a new indicator of gait assessment which has potential clinical application.

This final chapter summarizes key insights, offers policy and research recommendations, and reflects on immigration and geopolitical trends. It also suggests directions for future research into Nikkei and transnational entrepreneurship in Japan and Latin America.

This chapter mirrors the structure of Chap. 3 but shifts focus to the Nikkei experience in Mexico. It provides local context, highlights individual entrepreneurial journeys, and analyzes the specific challenges and opportunities in the Mexican landscape for Nikkei and Japanese transnational entrepreneurs.

Background: Primary lung cancer is among the cancers with the poorest prognosis, having the highest mortality rate among men and the second highest among women in Japan. While surgery is the primary treatment, advanced stages often require pharmacotherapy. Recently, ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of cell death caused by lipid peroxidation, has gained attention as a potential therapeutic strategy. This study investigated the prognostic impact of lipid peroxidation marker and regulators involved in ferroptosis in lung adenocarcinoma. Methods: We analyzed 207 patients who underwent resection surgery for lung adenocarcinoma at Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital. Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate the expression levels of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), ferroptosis suppressor protein 1 (FSP1), and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE). The association between these markers and clinicopathological factors was assessed, and in vitro experiments were conducted to examine the effects of these markers on cell death. Results: Low cytoplasmic accumulation of 4-HNE and low expression of GPX4 were associated with a worse prognosis, and low FSP1 expression was associated with unfavorable relapse-free survival. In vitro experiments demonstrated that 4-HNE inhibited cell proliferation, and combined inhibition of GPX4 and FSP1 induced ferroptosis. Conclusions: These findings suggest that lipid peroxidation markers and regulators can serve as prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in lung adenocarcinoma.

IntroductionThe current study investigated the relationship between the characteristics of a darts game, including the throwing motion toward a target, and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). To this end, we examined the associations between cognitive function and mental health, and the shift in center of gravity while throwing darts. In a preliminary investigation, a 1-month dart game intervention was conducted among older individuals living in the community. The participants were divided into the non-MCI and MCI groups, and the relationship between center of gravity movement during throwing and the presence of dementia was examined.MethodsThe intervention lasted for 1 month and was tested on healthy older individuals (aged ≥ 65 years) recruited from the community. The Japanese version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and the Trail Making Test was used to assess cognitive function. Mental health was evaluated using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale and the Subjective Well-being Inventory. The center of pressure was analyzed to determine the center of gravity shift during dart throwing.ResultsThe analysis of factors influencing the determination of the MCI score during the intervention revealed a tendency for the center of gravity shift to be associated as a protective factor in the non-MCI group, although this association did not reach statistical significance (odds ratio = 0.942, p = 0.084). In the MCI group, a significant effect of age was observed in the MCI score (odds ratio = 1.539, p = 0.007).ConclusionThe current findings suggest that conducting center of gravity shift testing could potentially provide a helpful tool for predicting early decline in cognitive function.