Hajime Sakuma

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This study looked at how a protein called progranulin (PGRN) affects inflammation and scarring in the kidneys and liver of diabetic mice that were also fed a high-fat diet. It found that diabetic mice without PGRN (called KO mice) had less inflammation and scarring in their kidneys compared to those with PGRN, and those treated with a specific medication (SGLT2 inhibitor) had the least issues. In the liver, both the KO mice and those treated with the medication showed improvements in inflammation and scarring, highlighting different benefits from lacking PGRN versus medication use. Who this helps: This research helps patients with diabetes and liver or kidney issues.

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This study looked at how the shape of the skull affects the symmetry of the face in 50 women with jaw deformities. Researchers found strong connections between how much the chin was off-center and several facial and skull measurements, including where teeth and jaw points are positioned. Understanding these relationships helps in planning effective treatments for people with jaw and facial issues. Who this helps: This helps patients with jaw deformities and their doctors.

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This study looked at how well a new method called fractal analysis detects obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) compared to traditional methods, particularly when blood flow to heart tissue is reduced. The researchers analyzed data from 148 patients, finding that fractal analysis correctly identified obstructive CAD in 94% of cases, while the traditional method only achieved 80% accuracy. This is important because it means doctors can more accurately diagnose CAD, especially in patients with poor blood flow, which can lead to better treatment decisions. Who this helps: Patients with coronary artery disease and doctors diagnosing heart conditions.

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Researchers studied how well certain tests predict whether a random skin biopsy (RSB) will come back positive for intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) in 181 Japanese patients. They found that a combined model using both blood tests and imaging from PET-CT scans was more effective than using just clinical signs alone, showing better results in identifying patients who need the biopsy. This is important because using the right tests helps doctors make better decisions about which patients actually need RSB. Who this helps: This benefits patients suspected of having IVLBCL by improving the accuracy of their diagnosis.

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This study looked at levels of a protein called soluble BCMA in patients with Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) and found that those with the disease had much higher levels (an average of 100 ng/mL) compared to healthy individuals (41.4 ng/mL). Patients with symptoms of WM had even higher levels (133 ng/mL) than those without symptoms (73.8 ng/mL). The results show that tracking sBCMA levels can help doctors understand how severe a patient's disease is and how well treatment is working. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors in managing Waldenström macroglobulinemia.

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This study looked at issues in PET/CT scans where the bladder images sometimes don’t show enough detail due to high radioactivity from urine. Among 112 patients, researchers found that about 35% had low-accumulation artifacts in scans using certain methods, while using more advanced imaging techniques drastically reduced this number to only 6.3%. These findings are important because they can improve the quality of PET/CT scans, helping doctors get a clearer picture of patients' health. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by providing clearer imaging results for better diagnosis and treatment.

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This study explored a new way to repair the tear drainage system in the eye after removing a cancerous growth. The researchers used a special tissue flap from the nose to successfully reconstruct the tear duct in a patient, and after 6 months, there were no complications like excessive tearing or inflammation. This new technique appears effective at providing a strong and reliable pathway for tears, which is essential for proper eye function. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing eye surgery, especially those with skin cancers near the eye.

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This study looked at tumor plasma cells found in the blood of patients with two conditions: a benign one called monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and a more serious one called smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM). Out of 120 patients, 38.2% of those with MGUS and 61.8% with SMM had detectable tumor plasma cells in their blood. The research found that those with circulating tumor plasma cells had more genetic abnormalities that could indicate a higher risk of disease progression compared to those without these cells. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk for multiple myeloma, as well as their doctors, by providing better insights into monitoring and managing their conditions.

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This study looked at the round window niche veil (RWNV) in the ears of 191 Japanese patients using a high-tech CT scan to see how common it is in different age groups. The researchers found that RWNV was present in 66 out of 261 examined temporal bones, making the overall prevalence 25.3%. The findings vary by age, showing low prevalence in younger adults and higher in those aged 40-49, but no clear pattern with age was seen. This is important because understanding the RWNV can help improve how drugs are delivered to treat inner ear problems effectively. Who this helps: Patients with inner ear disorders.

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This study looked at how a mineral called nesquehonite changes when it loses water. Researchers found that when nesquehonite dehydrates, it forms tiny cracks, with an average distance between these cracks of about 258 nanometers. The changes in nesquehonite's structure during dehydration are important because they could lead to better ways to use this mineral in various industrial applications, such as in building stronger materials. Who this helps: This helps manufacturers and engineers looking for effective materials for construction and other industries.

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This study looked at the side effects that Japanese children experienced after receiving the BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine. Out of 1,016 children, 6.2% had fever after the first dose, 14.1% after the second, and 18.0% after the third, but no serious side effects like heart inflammation or allergic reactions were reported. Understanding these side effects and their risk factors is important because it can help build trust in the vaccine and encourage more children to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Who this helps: This helps parents and public health officials in promoting vaccination among children.

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This research studied how antibodies from patients with anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis (a brain disorder) affect the size of tiny structures on nerve cells called dendritic spines. The study found that these antibodies caused a significant decrease in the width and length of these spines, while making them denser. This matters because changes in spine size can disrupt brain function and lead to cognitive and behavioral issues in patients. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis and their doctors.

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This study looked at the structure of certain areas in the middle ear of children under 15 years old, focusing on the sinus tympani (ST), subtympanic sinus (STS), and facial sinus (FS). The researchers analyzed scans from 86 kids and found that Type C classification of ST was most common in 57% of cases, especially in infants at 86%. In contrast, Types A for both STS and FS were the most common at 78% and 52%, respectively. These findings highlight important differences in ear anatomy between children and adults, which can affect medical treatment. Who this helps: This helps doctors better understand and treat ear conditions in children.

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This study focused on a rare case of Wilms tumor, which usually affects children but can occur in adults, particularly in older patients. The researchers presented the case of an 80-year-old man who was treated for this tumor but sadly died shortly afterward due to its aggressive nature; autopsy findings showed widespread tumor spread. They reviewed 11 similar cases in patients aged 70 and older and found that more than half had poor outcomes, with only three surviving beyond a year after treatment. This helps: Patients and doctors dealing with adult Wilms tumor, especially in elderly individuals.

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This study focused on teaching elementary school students about tardigrades using low-cost tools like smartphone microscopes and 3D printing. Over two years, 249 students participated in workshops where they collected moss, observed tardigrades, and created 3D models. The results showed that student interest in tardigrades and these technologies increased significantly, with 93-95% expressing high interest after the activities, and 74% successfully finding tardigrades in their samples. Who this helps: This helps elementary school students by making science more engaging and accessible.

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This study looked at how joining self-help groups, avoiding nonalcoholic beer, and not smoking affect recovery from alcohol dependence in Japanese men after they completed a treatment program. Results showed that men who participated in self-help groups had a 52.7% abstinence rate compared to 36.8% for those who did not. Also, only 15.3% of those who consumed nonalcoholic beer remained abstinent, versus 51.2% of those who didn’t drink it. These findings matter because they highlight the importance of self-help participation and avoiding certain behaviors to improve recovery outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from alcohol dependence and their support systems.

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This study looked at how tofogliflozin, a medication for diabetes, affects the muscle function of male mice with diabetes-related muscle loss. The researchers found that treatment with tofogliflozin improved the muscle's energy-producing ability, helped the muscles perform better during exercise, and increased the size of specific muscle fibers without causing weight loss. This is important because it shows that tofogliflozin can enhance muscle health in diabetic patients without leading to further muscle loss. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with type 2 diabetes, especially those experiencing muscle weakness.

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This study looked at how imaging using a specific type of scan (FDG PET/CT) can predict the chances of cancer coming back in patients with hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma while they are undergoing chemoradiotherapy. Out of 35 patients, 12 (or 34%) had their cancer return after treatment. The researchers found that a certain measurement (the decrease in SUVmax) was a strong indicator of whether the cancer would return, with those showing a smaller decrease at a significantly higher risk of recurrence. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and patients by providing better tools to predict cancer outcomes and personalize treatment plans.

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This study looked at 25 children from Australia, Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan who developed severe brain swelling and organ failure due to SARS-CoV-2 infection from February 2022 to January 2024. Among these children, 22 (88%) died, with 11 (44%) passing away within the first day of being hospitalized. The findings highlight a critical health crisis where COVID-19 can cause life-threatening brain and organ issues in kids, showing the urgent need for better understanding and treatment. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers manage severe COVID-19 cases in children more effectively.

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This study looked at how radioactive cesium ions (Cs) behave in certain types of clay minerals. Researchers found that the longer Cs is adsorbed, the harder it becomes to remove from these sediments. Specifically, they noticed that in low-concentration hydroxy-Al clay, the rate of desorption was much slower, with differences linked to the clay's structure. Understanding this behavior is crucial for developing better ways to clean up cesium from the environment and design materials that can effectively trap or remove cesium from water. Who this helps: This helps environmental scientists and cleanup teams working to remediate contaminated sediments.

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This study looked at adults who had Kawasaki disease (KD) as children, focusing on their coronary arteries many years later. Researchers found that among 11 patients, 39% had abnormal plaque in their coronary artery walls, which can lead to serious heart problems. Specifically, these abnormalities were common even in patients who appeared to have normal arteries, indicating a long-term risk for complications. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and patients who had Kawasaki disease, helping them understand potential future heart risks.

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This study looked at dialysis initiation trends in Hokkaido, Japan, from 2012 to 2021, focusing on changes related to specific diseases. It found that while the number of new dialysis patients due to chronic glomerulonephritis (CGN) decreased, there was an increase in cases linked to nephrosclerosis, especially among older adults. Specifically, dialysis initiation rates for diabetic kidney disease (DKD) fell across all age groups, but the national rate among men over 80 rose, highlighting the need for targeted health interventions. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare policymakers in managing kidney disease care more effectively.

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This study looked at how red blood cell distribution width (RDW) can help differentiate between gastrointestinal lymphoma and chronic inflammatory enteropathy in dogs. Researchers reviewed health records of 116 dogs and found that dogs with gastrointestinal lymphoma had a higher RDW (average 18.3% or more) compared to those with the other condition, which helps predict survival. Specifically, dogs with higher RDW had a shorter survival time, averaging only 134 days. Who this helps: This benefits veterinarians and dog owners by improving diagnosis and treatment options for affected dogs.

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This case report discusses an unusual brain tumor in an 18-year-old man that initially looked like a common type of brain tumor called a meningioma. The patient had symptoms like headaches and nausea, and scans showed a mass in his brain, but after surgery to remove it, doctors found out it was actually a germ cell tumor that had spread from the chest (mediastinum). This matters because it highlights the need for doctors to consider different types of tumors in young men, even when the symptoms and scans suggest something more common. Who this helps: This helps young male patients who may have rare tumors that mimic more common conditions.

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This study looked at how tiny molecules called microRNAs (miRNAs) affect kidney damage, specifically in a condition known as chronic kidney disease (CKD), which can lead to kidney failure. The researchers found that certain miRNAs play important roles in promoting kidney scarring, or interstitial fibrosis, which happens as the disease progresses. Understanding these processes is crucial because it could lead to new ways to diagnose and treat CKD, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic kidney disease and their doctors.

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Cardiovascular MRI and spirometry in 80 patients with coronary artery disease found that worse airflow obstruction (lower FEV1/FVC) was independently associated with impaired left atrial conduit strain. Emphysema severity was also independently linked to reduced FEV1/FVC. These findings suggest airway disease primarily disrupts the passive filling function of the left atrium in patients with coronary disease.

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This study looked at how well a type of heart imaging called Tmapping can detect DNA damage in heart cells in patients with a heart condition called dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Researchers analyzed 36 patients and found that there is a strong relationship between Tmapping results and the level of DNA damage; for example, patients with higher DNA damage showed significantly higher Tmapping results. Understanding this connection is important because it may help doctors assess heart damage and improve treatment outcomes, especially since DNA damage can indicate how the heart might recover after therapy. Who this helps: Patients with heart conditions and their doctors.

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This study looked at how well a new type of heart scan called ultra-high-resolution coronary CT angiography (CCTA) works for viewing heart stents, comparing it to a standard method. They found that the new method produced better image quality scores, with 82.2% rated as good or excellent compared to 53.5% with the standard method; it also showed less blurriness around the stents. This is important because clearer images can help doctors better assess stents, potentially leading to improved patient care without increasing radiation exposure. Who this helps: Patients who have heart stents.

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This study focused on improving the quality control of digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), a type of breast X-ray, by creating a special tool called an air hole phantom. The researchers found that this phantom effectively measured depth resolution and distortion, with the depth accuracy (Z-resolution) meeting established standards and geometric distortion remaining within a 5% error margin. This is important because it helps ensure that breast imaging is accurate, which can lead to better diagnosis and treatment of patients. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and patients by improving the reliability of breast cancer screenings.

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This study looked at how caffeine affects blood flow to the heart when using a drug called adenosine, which improves blood flow during heart tests. Researchers found that when caffeine was taken, blood flow to the heart was less than when a placebo was used, showing figures of 2.30 mL/min/g compared to 2.97 mL/min/g with the placebo. The findings highlight the importance of avoiding caffeine before heart imaging tests because it can significantly reduce blood flow readings and affect the accuracy of results. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing heart imaging tests and the doctors interpreting their results.

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This study compared two types of CT scans—photon-counting detector CT (PCD-CT) and conventional energy-integrating detector CT (EID-CT)—to see which provides better images of the temporal bone. In a group of seven patients, PCD-CT showed better visibility of important structures in the ear, scoring between 3.7 and 5.0 on a scale where higher scores mean better images, while the radiation exposure was similar for both types of scans. This matters because clearer images can help doctors better diagnose and treat ear conditions without increasing radiation risk. Who this helps: Patients with ear problems who need accurate imaging for treatment.

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This study focused on understanding how a type of brain cell called microglia repopulates itself after being removed from brain tissue. The researchers found that removing more than 95% of microglia allowed the remaining cells to multiply and gradually refill the empty space, but this repopulation stopped once a certain number was reached without causing cell death. They discovered that a specific signaling pathway is necessary for this multiplication, and that existing microglia can slow down the growth of newly forming ones by direct contact. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying brain health and diseases, as well as potential future treatments for neurological conditions.

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This study looked at a 36-year-old woman whose central venous catheter got stuck in a blood vessel in her lung after chemotherapy for colon cancer. Researchers used a balloon catheter to remove the stuck catheter safely and without any complications. This approach could be helpful in similar cases where traditional methods, like using a snare wire, are difficult. Who this helps: Patients with central venous catheters who experience complications.

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This study looked at new surgical methods to help people who have facial paralysis, which can cause both functional issues and cosmetic problems. In two cases, doctors performed surgery to remove specific facial muscles that cause drooping and then used tissue from inside the cheek to fill in the gaps. A year later, both patients showed improved symmetry and movement of their lips, with no signs of depression at the surgery site. Who this helps: This benefits patients with facial paralysis seeking better facial appearance and movement.

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This study looked at ways to find new treatments for lymphoid cancers in dogs by testing existing drugs that are already approved for other uses. Researchers screened nearly 1,900 drugs and found 45 that specifically killed cancer cells without harming normal cells. Five of these drugs showed promise, as they could effectively lower cancer cell growth at doses that are achievable in dogs. Who this helps: This research benefits veterinarians and dog owners looking for effective treatments for dogs with cancer.

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This study looked at the development of a small structure in the ear called the posterior canaliculus (PC) in a group of Japanese patients aged 0 to 59. Researchers found that the average length of the PC was about 8.3 millimeters, and as children grow, the distance between the PC and a nearby facial nerve becomes smaller, which stabilizes around age 9. The most important finding is that these anatomical changes vary a lot between individuals, especially in young children, indicating a "high-risk window" for ear surgery in kids under 10. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors performing ear surgeries, especially on young patients.

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This study looked at how well patients with heart failure (HF) understand their condition and engage in advance care planning (ACP), which is about making decisions for future medical care. Out of 177 patients, only 39.6% of those with stage C HF knew their correct stage, and just 21.7% of stage D patients did. Even though many recognized the importance of having a surrogate decision-maker, less than half had discussed end-of-life wishes with them, highlighting a need for better communication and support from healthcare providers. Who this helps: This helps patients with heart failure and their families by promoting clearer discussions about future care.

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This study looked at whether using electrical stimulation on the wrist while practicing handwriting can improve how well adults write with their non-dominant hand. Researchers found that people who used the electrical stimulation methods showed better handwriting quality compared to those who didn’t get any help, but there was no extra benefit from the stimulation compared to just practicing handwriting alone. This is important because it shows a promising way to help people improve their writing skills, especially for those who might need to strengthen their non-dominant hand skills. Who this helps: This helps adults who want to improve their handwriting skills, particularly those recovering from injuries or conditions affecting their dominant hand.

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This study looked at how common a condition called superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSC dehiscence) is in a sample of Japanese patients using a very detailed type of CT scan. Out of 402 temporal bones examined, only 1 had a definite case of dehiscence, resulting in a prevalence rate of just 0.25%, which is much lower than what earlier studies found. This is important because it suggests that using this advanced imaging technique can lead to more accurate diagnoses and prevent mislabeling patients with symptoms they do not actually have. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and patients by improving the accuracy of diagnoses related to ear conditions.

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This study looked at a new way to use a type of heart imaging called cine CT, which can evaluate heart function with less radiation. Researchers found that scanning 20 seconds after a contrast agent peak gives the best results while exposing patients to only about 0.9 mSv of extra radiation, leading to a total of 2.9 mSv for both tests. This approach offers doctors a valuable option for assessing heart function in patients who might not be able to get other tests, improving diagnosis while minimizing radiation exposure. Who this helps: Patients suspected of having coronary artery disease who need functional heart assessments.

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This study looked at ways to improve how we visualize complex decision tree models used in healthcare for diagnosing diseases. Researchers found a new technique that makes it easier to understand how these decision trees classify data, even when dealing with large and complicated datasets. Their method helps visualize decision-making processes more intuitively, allowing users to see how closely related different data points are in five biology datasets. Who this helps: This helps doctors and medical researchers understand diagnostic tools better.

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This study looked at a medical imaging technique called quantitative perfusion cardiovascular magnetic resonance (QP-CMR) to see how accurately it measures blood flow in the heart compared to a more established method, O-water positron emission tomography (PET). The researchers tested 39 patients with suspected heart issues and found that QP-CMR had a strong agreement with PET, with correlation values around 0.78, indicating good accuracy in measuring heart blood flow. The Fermi function model and the Tofts model outperformed the modified-Tofts model in finding abnormal blood flow, suggesting that using these models can help better diagnose heart conditions. Who this helps: This benefits patients with heart disease and healthcare providers diagnosing heart conditions.

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This study looked at how certain antibodies are involved in central nervous system infections caused by human herpesviruses. Out of 17 adults tested, none had antibodies linked to a specific receptor, but two had antibodies related to myelin when infected with the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which is known for causing chickenpox and shingles. Both patients recovered fully, suggesting that these antibodies could be part of the immune response in VZV infections and highlighting the need to consider autoimmune factors in similar cases. Who this helps: This helps patients with nerve-related complications from herpesvirus infections and their doctors.

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This research looked at a rare condition where a specific autoimmune disease, known as MOGAD, can present with symptoms similar to meningitis without typical neurological signs. The study found that patients with MOGAD who experience aseptic meningitis often have high cerebrospinal fluid pressures. Understanding this connection is important because it can lead to better diagnosis and treatment of patients who might otherwise be misdiagnosed. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients with MOGAD by improving awareness of its different presentations.