It is a great pleasure to present Current Topics of Infectious Diseases in Japan and Asia. This is a memorable scientifi c publication for Showa University, prepared in conjunction with the 6th Annual Meeting, Showa International Symposium for Life Sciences, held at the university in 2009. This symposium was supported in part by Grants for the Pro- tion of the Advancement of Education and Research in Graduate School. On behalf of Showa University, it is a privilege to see the publication of this volume of scientifi c research articles for the advancement of knowledge about infectious diseases in Japan and Asia. Akiyoshi Hosoyamada, M.D., Ph.D. President Showa University, Tokyo, Japan February 2010 Preface The 6th Annual Meeting, Showa International Symposium for Life Sciences, hosted by Showa University, was held in the university’s Kamijo Hall on September 19, 2009. The symposium was entitled “Current Topics of Infectious Diseases in Japan and Asia” and focused on various infectious diseases in the region. Two prominent researchers from overseas — Dr. Lee Ching Ng from Singapore and Dr. Guanghui Li from China — and eight Japanese speakers gave lectures, which were followed by productive discussions, with special comments by Dr. Patricio N. Abinales of Kyoto University.