Search

Density and dielectric spectra have been measured in the liquid phase of dimethyl ether (DME)–ethanol by an oscillating U-tube densimeter and a complex dielectric spectrometer under 1.00 MPa. The density was measured at 303.15 and 313.15 K and converted to the excess molar volume. The excess molar volumes were no smaller than − 0.880 and − 0.909 cm3·mol–1 at 303.15 and 313.15 K, respectively. The mole fraction dependence can be correlated with the Redlich–Kister equation, whose minimum was found to be around 0.58 for the mole fraction of DME. The dielectric constant and the dielectric relaxation time were evaluated from the complex dielectric spectra in the frequency range from 0.5 to 18 GHz at (293.2–313.2) K and 1.00 MPa. The dielectric constants and the relaxation time were decreased with the mole fraction of DME, and the latter tended to be around 25 ps in the mole fraction range higher than 0.6. The logarithmic dielectric constants can be correlated with a similar function to the Hildebrand equation with the volume fraction. The effective Kirkwood g-factor was evaluated at 293.2–313.2 K and 1.00 MPa. The g-factors were given by two linear functions crossed around 0.6 for the mole fraction of DME. Considering an atomic composition (C2H6O), the molecular sizes are not so different for DME and ethanol. Then, the solution structure was thought to be microscopically changed around 0.6 for the mole fraction of DME. The mole fraction will be utilized to switch the solubility to extract amphipathic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The finite-temperature electronic transport properties of the CoSi compound and its alloys with 3d transition metals including Fe, Cr, Mn, and Ni are elucidated by using the Korringa–Kohn–Rostoker Green's function method combined with the coherent potential approximation. On the basis of the linear response theory, the electrical resistivity of the CoSi compound observed in the experiments could be quantitatively reproduced by taking into account both local phonon displacements and antisite disorder effects. Our calculations reveal the formation of Co–Si disorders with a very small concentration and their dominant effect on resistivity in a low-temperature range. Moreover, alloying transition metals with CoSi also led to significant changes in the states of conduction electrons, which is interesting as a typical example of a rigid band scheme. Notably, we found that alloying with Ni could reduce the system's resistivity by more than 25%, suggesting its potential for enhancing the power factor of the CoSi compound for thermoelectric applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between the valence states of Eu ions in Eu-doped GaN and their magnetic properties is investigated by experiments and simulations. X-ray measurements have verified that the valence states of Eu ions can be controlled through growth temperature and codopants and that the highest concentration of divalent Eu ions is found in samples grown at 700 ° C by codoping with Si and O. According to our phenomenological analysis, magnetoresistance measurement implies the presence of Zener's p–f exchange interaction. However, the magnetization dependence on an external magnetic field shows non-hysteretic sigmoidal curves in all the samples. Our simulations suggest that this is due to the formation of nanostructures of the magnetic impurities in the samples by spinodal decomposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2016, a countermeasure was announced against the Nankai Trough long‐period and long‐duration ground motions (LPGMs) in Japan. However, the response spectrum method (RSM), indicated by the Ministry of Construction notification Vol. 2009 (MCN), was out of the countermeasure. An RSM considering characteristic changes due to repeated deformations has also been proposed. However, since the damping correction formula of MCN was used, its applicability to LPMGs has not been sufficiently investigated. In this paper, a method is proposed to evaluate the influence of characteristic changes due to repeated deformations using RSM for LPGMs and seismically isolated buildings using the lead plug‐inserted laminated rubber (LRB). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, Fe-doped semiconductors have been attracting much attention as ferromagnetic semiconductors due to the possibility that they may exhibit high Curie temperatures and low power consumption and that they may be useful for high-speed spin devices. High Curie temperature ferromagnetism has been observed in Fe-doped InAs, from which both n- and p-type ferromagnetic semiconductors can be fabricated. In order to obtain a higher Curie temperature than that of (In, Fe)As, we have focused on GaSb and InSb as host semiconductors. We have investigated their electronic structures, magnetic properties, and structural stability by using the Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker Green's function method within density functional theory. We have found that (Ga, Fe)Sb and (In, Fe)Sb show complex magnetic properties, which are determined by the correlation between magnetic exchange coupling constants and chemical pair interactions. Isoelectronic Fe-doped GaSb and InSb have strong antiferromagnetic interactions due to the super-exchange mechanism. By shifting the Fermi level–i.e., by n- or p-type doping–(Ga, Fe)Sb and (In, Fe)Sb can be made to undergo a magnetic transition from antiferromagnetic to ferromagnetic ordering. This transition can be well understood in terms of the Alexander-Anderson-Moriya mechanism. Our calculations indicate the possibility of manipulating (Ga, Fe)Sb and (In, Fe)Sb to achieve high Curie temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The effects of subthalamic nuclear deep brain stimulation therapy (STN-DBS) and combined postoperative rehabilitation for patients with Parkinson's disease with postural instability have yet to be well reported. This study investigated the effects of short-term postoperative rehabilitation with STN-DBS on physical function in patients with Parkinson's disease. Methods. Patients diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who were admitted to our hospital for STN-DBS surgery were included in this study. Data were prospectively collected and retrospectively analyzed. Postoperative rehabilitation consisted of muscle-strengthening exercises, stretching, and balance exercises for 40–60 minutes per day for approximately 14 days. The Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Mini-BESTest), Timed Up and Go test (TUG) seconds and steps, Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS), seconds for 10 times toe-tapping, lower limb extension torque using StrengthErgo240, and center of pressure sway in the quiet standing posture were evaluated preoperatively, postoperatively, and at discharge. Mini-BESTest changes were also evaluated in the two groups classified by the presence or absence of postural instability. One-way and two-way repeated measures analyses of variance were performed for each of the three periods of change, and paired t-tests with the Bonferroni method were performed as multiple comparison tests. A stepwise multiple regression model was used to identify factors associated with balance improvement. Results. A total of 60 patients with Parkinson's disease were included, and there were significant increases in Mini-BESTest, TIS, StrengthErgo240, and postural sway during closed-eye standing compared to pre- and postoperative conditions at discharge (p < 0.05), and they decreased significantly compared to the postoperative period (p < 0.05). On stepwise multiple regression analysis, decreased steps of TUG and improvement of TIS scores were related to improvement of the Mini-BESTest (p < 0.05). In addition, Mini-BESTest scores in both groups with and without postural instability were significantly increased at discharge compared to preoperative and postoperative conditions (p < 0.01). Conclusion. Postoperative rehabilitation combined with STN-DBS may provide short-term improvements in physical function compared with the preoperative medicated status. The improvements in gait step length and trunk function may be important factors for obtaining improvement of postoperative postural stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesenteric phlebosclerosis is a rare form of intestinal ischemia characterized by thickening of the right-sided colon and calcification of the mesenteric vein. We describe the case of a 58-year-old woman admitted to our hospital because of abdominal pain and distension. An abdominal computed tomography study revealed remarkable dilatation and fluid collection of the small intestine compatible with intestinal obstruction, which was considered to be the result of stenosis of the ascending colon. The thickened wall of the cecum and ascending colon was associated with calcification of the colonic wall and mesenteric veins. Colonoscopy showed dark purple discoloration of the edematous mucosa from the splenic flexure through the hepatic flexure, at which point the colonoscope could not be advanced further because of stenosis of the ascending colon. Over 10 years previously, the patient had taken an herbal medicine containing gardenia fruit, which can cause mesenteric phlebosclerosis. An extensive colonic resection was performed after intestinal decompression. This case highlights extensive mesenteric phlebosclerosis causing intestinal obstruction from the cecum through the proximal portion of the sigmoid colon, which was treated with extensive colonic resection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of flexible thermoelectric devices is gradually attracting increasing attention, particularly in the field of material design. In this study, we use first-principles calculations combined with Boltzmann equations to study the electronic and transport properties of Ag2S1−xSex, a key material with many important properties and extraordinary ductility, as well as a wide range of thermoelectric applications. The effect of Se alloying on the electronic structure of Ag2S and defect formation is investigated, and the role of alloying in increasing the n-type carrier concentration is discussed. The electron–phonon coupling approximation is used to reproduce the experimentally observed transport properties reasonably well, which shows that this scattering model is suitable for predicting the transport properties of semiconductors in thermoelectric applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of biological invasion is an issue of increasing significance in conservation ecology. Fisher equation is one of the traditional methods to describe biological invasion. In ecosystems, however, species usually live in patchy environments. In this study, a modified Fisher equation is derived, where the recently developed "swapping migration" is applied and the relation between invasion velocity and patch capacity is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The infectious disease (COVID-19) causes serious damages and outbreaks. A large number of infected people have been reported in the world. However, such a number only represents those who have been tested; e.g. PCR test. We focus on the infected individuals who are not checked by inspections. The susceptible-infected-recovered (SIR) model is modified: infected people are divided into quarantined (Q) and non-quarantined (N) agents. Since N-agents behave like uninfected people, they can move around in a stochastic simulation. Both theory of well-mixed population and simulation of random-walk reveal that the total population size of Q-agents decrease in spite of increasing the number of tests. Such a paradox appears, when the ratio of Q exceeds a critical value. Random-walk simulations indicate that the infection hardly spreads, if the movement of all people is prohibited ("lockdown"). In this case the infected people are clustered and locally distributed within narrow spots. The similar result can be obtained, even when only non-infected people move around. However, when both N-agents and uninfected people move around, the infection spreads everywhere. Hence, it may be important to promote the inspections even for asymptomatic people, because most of N-agents are mild or asymptomatic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Layered silicene with deformed buckled structure attracts great interest as a next generation 2D Dirac thermoelectric material beyond conventional layered materials. However, the difficulty of modulating atomic positions in silicene prevents its realization. This study proposes a method to deform buckled structure in layered silicene by controlling the intercalated atoms, which can dramatically enhance its thermoelectric properties. Silicene buckled structure is deformed in epitaxial CaSi2 thin films, Ca‐intercalated layered silicenes, on Si(111) substrates, which is related to the composition of intercalated Ca. Therein, buckling height of silicene is changed. This CaSi2 film with deformed silicene exhibits not only metal‐like electrical conductivity but also three times larger Seebeck coefficient than the theoretically predicted value, resulting in ≈3000 times larger power factor (≈40 μW cm−1 K−2) than that of the reported CaSi2 film at room temperature. This result experimentally demonstrates that power factor can be greatly enhanced by deforming the silicene buckled structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a novel method to generate p-type conduction and low resistivity in wide- and ultrawide-bandgap III-nitride semiconductors via doping of a magnetic element. This method is based on the energetic competition between the covalency of the magnetic element and the ligand nitrogen atoms and the exchange-correlation energy of the magnetic impurity. Using magnetic elements with large exchange-correlation energy, we can obtain p-type wide- and ultrawide-bandgap semiconductors, which are basically difficult to synthesize due to the unipolarity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the electronic structure and transport properties of a ductile thermoelectric material α-Ag2S are examined using first-principles calculations combined with the Boltzmann transport equation within a constant relaxation-time approximation. The use of the exchange–correlation functional SCAN + rVV10 successfully describes the geometric and electronic structure of α-Ag2S with a direct bandgap value of 0.99 eV, which is consistent with the previous experimental observations. Based on the calculations of the formation energy of typical intrinsic defects, it is found that intrinsic defect formation greatly affects the conductivity of the system where silver vacancy and interstitial silver act as p-type and n-type defects, respectively. Large Seebeck coefficients at room-temperature, of around −760 μV K−1 for n-type and 1400 μV K−1 for p-type, are realized. It is also suggested that the doping of fully filled d-block elements such as Cu and Au not only maintained the Seebeck coefficients at high values but also improved electrical conductivity by more than 1.4 times, leading to the improvement of the power factor by up to 40% compared to the non-doped sample at low carrier concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study a food-web model which is known to exhibit a parity law: the behavior of stationary state differs by whether the species number is odd or even. Here we deal with the same ecosystem in patchy environment, where the capacities of patches are different. The migration between patches is permitted, only when there are empty cells in the destination. From reaction-migration equations, we find that the patch capacities largely affect the dynamics and phase transition. The previous parity law is paradoxically modified. Moreover, we find a new parity law originated in the difference of patch capacities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study computationally demonstrates that room-temperature ferromagnetism, which has been experimentally observed in Eu-doped GaN, is induced by holes in N 2p states (i.e., Zener's double exchange interaction) that arise on the assumption that Ga vacancies appear as a result of the introduction of Eu ions (i.e., volume compensation). The calculated Curie temperature (TC) suddenly increases over a certain range of Ga-vacancy concentrations and gradually increases with an increasing concentration of Eu ions. High TC above room temperature is dominated by Zener's double exchange mechanism in partially occupied N 2p hole-states, which itinerate throughout the whole crystals, and low TC is dominated by Zener's p-f exchange mechanism in Eu 4f and N 2p hybridization. We can reasonably explain the surprising experimental data of 4000 μB per Gd atom in Gd-doped GaN reported by Dhar et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 94, 037205 (2005)]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapidly rising demand for energy storage systems presents an imperative need to develop sodium-ion batteries with high energy density, high conductivity, and low barrier energy. In this work, we present a Density Functional study on the properties of two-dimensional NaxSiS as a promising anode material for rechargeable sodium-ion batteries. Energetically stable structures of Na-adsorbed silicene sulfide NaxSiS with various Na contents were explored. It is found that the adsorption energy of a Na atom is higher than −0.4 eV and it decreases with increasing Na content. The electronic structure of pristine silicene sulfide shows semiconductor behaviour with a bandgap of 0.99 eV, while the Na-adsorbed SiS exhibits metallic characteristics. The highest theoretical capacity of 187.2 mA h g−1, which is higher than that of well-known two dimensional materials, is found in the fully intercalated phase of SiS Na0.5SiS which corresponds to per side layer. Furthermore, Na ions can diffuse along two typical pathways on the surface of SiS with a small barrier of 183 meV which is much smaller than that of the two dimensional LixSiS, NaxTiS2, and NaxMoS2. All these characteristics suggest that silicene sulfide SiS can be expected to be a promising anode material for sodium ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus (STN-DBS) is a surgical treatment to reduce the "off" state motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD). Postural instability is one of the major impairments, which induces disabilities of activities of daily living (ADLs). The effectiveness of STN-DBS for postural instability is unclear, and the effect of rehabilitation following STN-DBS has remained uncertain. Objective. The purpose of this study was to examine changes in balance ability, gait function, motor performance, and ADLs following 2 weeks of postoperative rehabilitation in PD patients treated with STN-DBS. Methods. Sixteen patients were reviewed retrospectively from February 2016 to March 2017. All patients were tested in their "on" medication state for balance and gait performance using the Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Mini-BESTest) and the Timed "Up and Go" (TUG) test before the operation, after the operation, and during the discharge period. The UPDRS motor score (UPDRS-III) and Barthel Index (BI) were assessed before the operation and during the discharge period. Rehabilitation focused on muscle strengthening with stretching and proactive balance training. Friedman's test and the post hoc Wilcoxon's signed-rank test were used to analyze the balance assessments, and ANOVA and the post hoc Tukey's test were used to analyze gait performance. The significance level was p<0.05. Results. During the discharge period, the Mini-BESTest and TUG were significantly improved compared with the preoperative and postoperative periods (p<0.05). There were no differences between preoperative and postoperative periods in the Mini-BESTest (p=0.12) and TUG (p=0.91). The BI and motor sections of the UPDRS did not differ significantly between the preoperative and postoperative periods (p=0.45, p=0.22). Conclusion. The results of this study suggest that postoperative rehabilitation improves balance and gait ability in patients with PD treated with STN-DBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The associative interaction between resin‐bound polybrominated arenes and small molecules was analyzed by using various spectroscopic techniques as well as a synthetic molecular model to establish the thermodynamics. The binding in acetonitrile was three orders of magnitude stronger than that in methanol, partly owing to the tertiary conformational gating of the resin that controls the entropic terms. By using the entropic superiority, the associative binding of up to 3×104  m−1 is achieved with the non‐biological system. A modified Hill plot for the quantitative analysis of bindings was also devised, which enabled the interactions at the molecular level to be elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The self‐assembly behavior of ABA triblock copolymers comprising side‐chain (SC) liquid crystalline (LC) polymer (A blocks) and a main‐chain (MC) LC polyester (B block) is investigated for SCLC segment volume fractions (ϕ) ranging from 22% to 81%. At ϕ = 81% and 65%, the MCLC segments form cylinders and spheres, respectively, embedded in an SCLC matrix. At ϕ ≤ 56%, block copolymers form lamellar microdomains in which each segment forms smectic layers parallel to the lamellae. Whereas MCLC segments are mostly extended along the lamella normal but are folded to fit within the lamellae, the SCLC segment backbone is more elongated, traversing the smectic layers. Such backbone dimensions and mesogens' orientation in the SCLC segment are explained in light of the small interfacial area with the B5 segment, which is conserved even when the SCLC segment is in the isotropic liquid state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phosphidation of a ZnO/GaN solid solution photocatalyst enhanced significantly its activity for water splitting. The photocatalysts were heated with phosphorus in a vacuum-sealed quartz tube. Activation due to phosphidation was restricted within the narrow temperature range of 823–873 K, and varying amounts of P were added to the solid solution. In addition to X-ray diffraction peaks due to ZnO/GaN, active phosphide ZnO/GaN provided a single GaP peak with diffraction angles higher than normal GaP by 2ϑ = 0.20–0.44°, indicative of the formation of a GaP1−xNx alloy system. The diffraction peaks were simulated using first principles Ab inito calculations on molecular models of Ga32P32−yNy. The comparison with experimental shifts showed that the highest activity was induced in an x range of 0.034–0.074 of GaP1−xNx. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY The photoacoustic (PA) signal from the depletion layer beneath the metal electrode in a metal/semiconductor (M/S) structure was detected using the PA method. To measure the reverse-bias voltage dependence of distribution of the PA signal from the depletion layer, the surface of the electrode was illuminated and scanned by an intensity-modulated optical beam. It was found that the PA signal phase differences between depletion layer formation and the absence of a depletion layer were dependent on depletion layer spreading. One-dimensional scanning of the electrode also revealed that spreading of the depletion layer extends from the edges of the electrode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a subacute demyelinating disease of the brain caused by the JC virus that occurs mainly in immunocompromised patients. The prognosis is very poor. As the lesion looks like non- specific leukoencephalopathy, making a diagnosis at the early stage is very difficult. We report three PML cases in which there was a mismatch between C-methionine-positron emission tomography (MET-PET) uptake and F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) uptake. All three cases demonstrated the hyper-uptake of MET around the white matter lesions and hypo-uptake of FDG inside the lesions. We speculate that the infection had ended inside the white matter lesions of these patients, while JC virus infection was ongoing around the lesions, resulting in the increase of methionine metabolism, and the glucose metabolism was reduced or intermediate because inflammatory cells infiltrate PML lesions rarely. Two patients who were diagnosed and treated with mefloquine while the JC virus was at a low level in the cerebrospinal fluid are still alive. We suggest the usefulness of MET-PET for the early diagnosis of PML and early treatment with mefloquine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ni/Gd-doped CeO2(Ni-GDC) cermet is employed as a solid oxide fuel cell anode operating at 800°C. The single cells are a Ni-GDC/YSZ/LSM-YSZ structure. A novel plasticizer, 1,3-propanediol, is introduced into the fabrication process along with the use of the conventional organic binder PVB. Effects of anode compositions, 50% and 60% NiO, and additive types (PVB/PPD and PVB/PEG) on microstructure and electrical conductivity are compared. The results show that a more uniformity grain and pore distribution in the anode and a suitable additive enhances electrical conductivity. An improvement of cell performance with reduced total internal resistance is also observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate whether personality traits affect the rate of decline of gray matter volume, we analyzed the relationships between personality traits and the annual rate of changes of gray matter volume in 274 healthy community dwelling subjects with a large age range by applying a longitudinal design over 6 years, using brain magnetic resonance images (MRI) and the Revised NEO Personality Inventory (NEO-PI-R) at baseline. Brain MRI data were processed using voxel-based morphometry with a custom template by applying the DARTEL diffeomorphic registration tool. For each subject, we used NEO-PI-R to evaluate the five major personality traits, including neuroticism, extraversion, openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness. The results show that the annual rate of change in regional gray matter volume in the right inferior parietal lobule was correlated significantly and negatively with a personality of openness, which is known to be related to intellect, intellectual curiosity, and creativity adjusting for age, gender, and intracranial volume. This result indicates that subjects with a personality trait of less openness have an accelerated loss of gray matter volume in the right inferior parietal lobule, compared with subjects with a personality trait of more openness. Because the right inferior parietal lobule is involved in higher cognitive function such as working memory and creativity, a personality trait of openness is thought to be important for preserving gray matter volume and cognitive function of the right inferior parietal lobule in healthy adults. Hum Brain Mapp 34:3347-3353, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microlamellar and smectic liquid crystal (LC) structures of a block copolymer of a main-chain LC polyester connected at both ends with poly(ethyl methacrylate) are investigated by fiber X-ray scattering. In the as-spun fiber, the lamellae are parallel to the fiber axis, while the smectic layers are perpendicular to it. Annealing the as-spun fiber at a temperature higher than the isotropization temperature ( Ti) of the LC segment preserves the lamellae, but the LC structure disappears. Further annealing the fiber at T < Ti improves the lamellar stacking coherence and aligns the smectic layers parallel to the lamellae. In contrast, annealing the as-spun fiber at T < Ti conserves the smectic layers and arranges the lamellae in parallel to the smectic layers. Thus, the liquid crystallinity affects the lamellar ordering and orientation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although elevated serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) is related to atherosclerosis, brain infarction, and cognitive decline, it has not been clarified whether increased hsCRP is associated with the decline in brain gray matter volume. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between hsCRP levels and brain regional gray matter volume using brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data from 109 community-dwelling healthy elderly subjects. Brain MRIs were processed with voxel-based morphometry using a custom template by applying diffeomorphic anatomical registration using the exponentiated lie algebra (DARTEL) procedure. We found a significant negative correlation between regional gray matter volume of the posterior and lateral aspects of the left temporal cortex and hsCRP level after adjusting for age, gender, and intracranial volume. Our results suggest that subjects who have mild inflammation related to arteriosclerosis have decreased regional gray matter volume in the posterior and lateral aspects of the left temporal cortex. Thus, preventing the progression of arteriosclerosis may be important for preventing a decrease in gray matter volume in healthy elderly subjects. Hum Brain Mapp 34:2418-2424, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This deformation causes giant enhancement of Seebeck coefficient due to band structure change, leading to high thermoelectric power factor. Giant Enhancement of Seebeck Coefficient by Deformation of Silicene Buckled Structure in Calcium-Intercalated Layered Silicene Film (Adv. Keywords: epitaxial growth; layered materials; silicene; silicide; thermoelectric materials; thin films EN epitaxial growth layered materials silicene silicide thermoelectric materials thin films 1 1 1 01/10/22 20220101 NES 220101 B Ca-Intercalated Layered Silicene (CaSi SB 2 sb ) with Deformed Buckled Structure b In article number 2101752, Tsukasa Terada, Yoshiaki Nakamura, and co-workers reveal that in epitaxial film of Ca intercalated layered silicene, CaSi SB 2 sb on Si substrate, the silicene buckled structure is deformed through the control of the Ca/Si ratio. [Extracted from the article]

The aim of this study was to analyze correlations among the annual rate of gray matter volume change, age, gender, and cerebrovascular risk factors in 381 healthy community-dwelling subjects with a large age range by applying a longitudinal design over 6 years using brain magnetic resonance images (MRIs). Brain MRI data were processed with voxel-based morphometry using a custom template by applying diffeomorphic anatomical registration using the exponentiated lie algebra procedure. The annual rate of regional gray matter volume change showed significant positive correlations with age in several regions, including the bilateral temporal pole, caudate nucleus, ventral and dorsolateral prefrontal cortices, insula, hippocampus, and temporoparietal cortex, whereas significant negative correlations with age were observed in several regions including the bilateral cingulate gyri and anterior lobe of the cerebellum. Additionally, a significant age-by-gender interaction was found for the annual rate of regional gray matter volume change in the bilateral hippocampus. No significant correlations were observed between the annual rate of regional gray matter volume change and body mass index or systolic blood pressure. A significant positive correlation between the annual rate of gray matter volume change and age indicates that the region shows not linear but accelerated gray matter loss with age. Therefore, evaluating the annual rate of the gray matter volume change with age in healthy subjects is important in understanding how gray matter volume changes with aging in each brain region and in anticipating what cognitive functions are likely to show accelerated decline with aging. Hum Brain Mapp 34:2292-2301, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cigarette smoking decreases brain regional gray matter volume and is related to chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD). COPD leads to decreased pulmonary function, which is represented by forced expiratory volume in one second percentage (FEV1.0 %); however, it is unclear if decreased pulmonary function is directly related to brain gray matter volume decline. Because there is a link between COPD and cognitive decline, revealing a direct relationship between pulmonary function and brain structure is important to better understand how pulmonary function affects brain structure and cognitive function. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to analyze whether there were significant correlations between FEV1.0 % and brain regional gray and white matter volumes using brain magnetic resonance (MR) image data from 109 community-dwelling healthy elderly individuals. Methods: Brain MR images were processed with voxel-based morphometry using a custom template by applying diffeomorphic anatomical registration using the exponentiated lie algebra procedure. Results: We found a significant positive correlation between the regional white matter volume of the cerebellum and FEV1.0 % after adjusting for age, sex, and intracranial volume. Conclusion: Our results suggest that elderly individuals who have a lower FEV1.0 % have decreased regional white matter volume in the cerebellum. Therefore, preventing decreased pulmonary function is important for cerebellar white matter volume in the healthy elderly population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A liquid crystal (LC) ABA triblock copolymer with poly(styrene) (PS) A blocks and a main-chain nematic LC polyester B block is synthesized by atom-transfer radical polymerization of styrene with an LC polyester macro-initiator. The nematic LC and PS amorphous phases are segregated from each other to form lamellae with a spacing of 27 nm. The 16 nm-thick nematic LC lamellae are significantly smaller than the contour length of the LC segment (63 nm), and the nematic director is parallel to the lamellae. The central LC segment is primarily more extended in the lamellar direction, but folds so as to meander through the LC lamella and bridges adjacent PS domains. The lamellar microstructure exhibits a reversible spacing increase of up to 31 nm with increasing temperature, suggesting a corresponding increase in the probability of the chain folding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate age-related changes in the topological organization of structural brain networks by applying a longitudinal design over 6 years. Structural brain networks were derived from measurements of regional gray matter volume and were constructed in age-specific groups from baseline and follow-up scans. The structural brain networks showed economical small-world properties, providing high global and local efficiency for parallel information processing at low connection costs. In the analysis of the global network properties, the local and global efficiency of the baseline scan were significantly lower compared to the follow-up scan. Moreover, the annual rate of change in local and global efficiency showed a positive and negative quadratic correlation with the baseline age, respectively; both curvilinear correlations peaked at approximately the age of 50. In the analysis of the regional nodal properties, significant negative correlations between the annual rate of change in nodal strength and the baseline age were found in the brain regions primarily involved in the visual and motor/control systems, whereas significant positive quadratic correlations were found in the brain regions predominately associated with the default-mode, attention, and memory systems. The results of the longitudinal study are consistent with the findings of our previous cross-sectional study: the structural brain networks develop into a fast distribution from young to middle age (approximately 50 years old) and eventually became a fast localization in the old age. Our findings elucidate the network topology of structural brain networks and its longitudinal changes, thus enhancing the understanding of the underlying physiology of normal aging in the human brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies have demonstrated developmental changes of functional brain networks derived from functional connectivity using graph theoretical analysis, which has been rapidly translated to studies of brain network organization. However, little is known about sex- and IQ-related differences in the topological organization of functional brain networks during development. In this study, resting-state fMRI (rs-fMRI) was used to map the functional brain networks in 51 healthy children. We then investigated the effects of age, sex, and IQ on economic small-world properties and regional nodal properties of the functional brain networks. At a global level of whole networks, we found significant age-related increases in the small-worldness and local efficiency, significant higher values of the global efficiency in boys compared with girls, and no significant IQ-related difference. Age-related increases in the regional nodal properties were found predominately in the frontal brain regions, whereas the parietal, temporal, and occipital brain regions showed age-related decreases. Significant sex-related differences in the regional nodal properties were found in various brain regions, primarily related to the default mode, language, and vision systems. Positive correlations between IQ and the regional nodal properties were found in several brain regions related to the attention system, whereas negative correlations were found in various brain regions primarily involved in the default mode, emotion, and language systems. Together, our findings of the network topology of the functional brain networks in healthy children and its relationship with age, sex, and IQ bring new insights into the understanding of brain maturation and cognitive development during childhood and adolescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photoacoustic signal from the depletion layer formed within a planar metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM) structure was detected using the photoacoustic method. To measure the distribution of the photoacoustic signal from the depletion layer, the surface of the sample was illuminated and scanned by an intensity-modulated optical beam. The amplitude and phase shifts of the observed signal increased with an increase in the reverse bias in the Schottky barrier. The intensity distribution of the photoacoustic signal corresponded closely to the position of the photocurrent distribution, showing the presence of the depletion layer as measured by the photoelectric method. This demonstrates clearly that the photoacoustic signal reflects the presence of the depletion layer in semiconductor materials, and that the photoacoustic method can be used effectively for the visualization of the depletion layer. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 96(2): 65-70, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10402 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have identified several genetic loci associated with the development of familial inclusion body myopathy. However, there have been few genetic analyses of sporadic inclusion body myositis (sIBM). In order to explore the molecular basis of sIBM and to investigate genotype-phenotype correlations, we performed a clinicopathological analysis of 21 sIBM patients and screened for mutations in the Desmin, GNE, MYHC2A, VCP, and ZASP genes. All coding exons of the five genes were sequenced directly. Definite IBM was confirmed in 14 cases, probable IBM in three cases, and possible IBM in four cases. No cases showed missense mutations in the Desmin, GNE, or VCP genes. Three patients carried the missense mutation c.2542T>C (p.V805A) in the MYHC2A gene; immunohistochemical staining for MYHC isoforms in these three cases showed atrophy or loss of muscle fibers expressing MYHC IIa or IIx. One patient harbored the missense mutation c.1719G>A (p.V566M) in the ZASP gene; immunohistochemical studies of Z-band-associated proteins revealed Z-band abnormalities. Both of the novel heterogeneous mutations were located in highly evolutionarily conserved domains of their respective genes. Cumulatively, these findings have expanded our understanding of the molecular background of sIBM. However, we advocate further clinicopathology and investigation of additional candidate genes in a larger cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine structural brain networks using regional gray matter volume, as well as to investigate changes in small-world and modular organization with normal aging. We constructed structural brain networks composed of 90 regions in young, middle, and old age groups. We randomly selected 350 healthy subjects for each group from a Japanese magnetic resonance image database. Structural brain networks in three age groups showed economical small-world properties, providing high global and local efficiency for parallel information processing at low connection cost. The small-world efficiency and node betweenness varied significantly and revealed a U- or inverted U-curve model tendency among three age groups. Results also demonstrated that structural brain networks exhibited a modular organization in which the connections between regions are much denser within modules than between them. The modular organization of structural brain networks was similar between the young and middle age groups, but quite different from the old group. In particular, the old group showed a notable decrease in the connector ratio and the intermodule connections. Combining the results of small-world efficiency, node betweenness and modular organization, we concluded that the brain network changed slightly, developing into a more distributed organization from young to middle age. The organization eventually altered greatly, shifting to a more localized organization in old age. Our findings provided quantitative insights into topological principles of structural brain networks and changes related to normal aging. Hum Brain Mapp, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the relationship between age and gray matter structure and how interactions between gender and hemisphere impact this relationship, we examined correlations between global or regional gray matter volume and age, including interactions of gender and hemisphere, using a general linear model with voxel-based and region-of-interest analyses. Brain magnetic resonance images were collected from 1460 healthy individuals aged 20-69 years; the images were linearly normalized and segmented and restored to native space for analysis of global gray matter volume. Linearly normalized images were then non-linearly normalized and smoothed for analysis of regional gray matter volume. Analysis of global gray matter volume revealed a significant negative correlation between gray matter ratio (gray matter volume divided by intracranial volume) and age in both genders, and a significant interaction effect of age×gender on the gray matter ratio. In analyzing regional gray matter volume, the gray matter volume of all regions showed significant main effects of age, and most regions, with the exception of several including the inferior parietal lobule, showed a significant age × gender interaction. Additionally, the inferior temporal gyrus showed a significant age × gender × hemisphere interaction. No regional volumes showed significant age6hemisphere interactions. Our study may contribute to clarifying the mechanism(s) of normal brain aging in each brain region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mutations in the progressive external ophthalmoplegia 1 ( PEO1), adenine nucleotide translocator 1 ( ANT1) and DNA polymerase gamma ( POLG) genes were reported in patients with progressive external ophthalmoplegia and parkinsonism. However, the genotype-phenotype correlation and pathophysiology of these syndromes are still unknown. In order to define the molecular basis of progressive external ophthalmoplegia and parkinsonism, we screened for mutations in PEO1, ANT1, POLG genes and the whole mitochondrial genome in two families . In results, we identified a compound heterozygous POLG substitutions, c.830A>T (p.H277L) and c.2827C>T (p.R943C) in one of the families. These two mutations in the coding region of POLG alter conserved amino acids in the exonuclease and polymerase domains, respectively, of the POLG protein. Neither of these substitutions was found in the 100 chromosomes of ethnically matched control subjects. In the other family, no mutations were detected in any of the three genes and the whole mitochondrial genome in the blood sample, although mitochondrial DNA deletions were observed in the muscle biopsy sample. Progressive external ophthalmoplegia and parkinsonism are genetically heterogenous disorders, and part of this syndrome may be caused by mutations in other, unknown genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Whether the degree of white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) shows a significant correlation with the rate of global gray matter volume decline over a period following initial baseline measurement remains unclear. The purpose of the present study was to reveal the relationship between the degree of WMHs at baseline and the rate of global gray matter volume decline by applying a longitudinal design. Methods: Using a 6-year longitudinal design and magnetic resonance images of the brains of 160 healthy individuals aged over 50 years and living in the community, we analyzed the correlation between degree of WMHs using Fazekas scaling at baseline and rate of global gray matter volume decline 6 years later. To obtain the rate of global gray matter volume decline, we calculated global gray matter volume and intracranial volume at baseline and at follow-up using a fully automated method. Results: The annual percentage change in the gray matter ratio (GMR, APC), in which GMR represents the percentage of gray matter volume in the intracranial volume, showed a significant positive correlation with the degree of deep WMHs and periventricular WMHs at baseline, after adjusting for age, gender, present history of hypertension, and diabetes mellitus. Conclusion: Our results suggest that degree of WMHs at baseline predicts the rate of gray matter volume decline 6 years later and that simple visual scaling of WMHs could contribute to predicting the rate of global gray matter volume decline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Community structure is a universal and significant feature of many complex networks in biology, society, and economics. Community structure has also been revealed in human brain structural and functional networks in previous studies. However, communities overlap and share many edges and nodes. Uncovering the overlapping community structure of complex networks remains largely unknown in human brain networks. Here, using regional gray matter volume, we investigated the structural brain network among 90 brain regions (according to a predefined anatomical atlas) in 462 young, healthy individuals. Overlapped nodes between communities were defined by assuming that nodes (brain regions) can belong to more than one community. We demonstrated that 90 brain regions were organized into 5 overlapping communities associated with several well-known brain systems, such as the auditory/language, visuospatial, emotion, decision-making, social, control of action, memory/learning, and visual systems. The overlapped nodes were mostly involved in an inferior-posterior pattern and were primarily related to auditory and visual perception. The overlapped nodes were mainly attributed to brain regions with higher node degrees and nodal efficiency and played a pivotal role in the flow of informa- tion through the structural brain network. Our results revealed fuzzy boundaries between communities by identifying overlapped nodes and provided new insights into the understanding of the relationship between the structure and function of the human brain. This study provides the first report of the overlapping community structure of the structural network of the human brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine if muscle energy metabolism, as measured by (31)P-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), is a metabolic marker for the efficacy of treatment of Machado-Joseph disease (MJD). We obtained (31)P-MRS in the calf muscle of 8 male patients with MJD and 11 healthy men before, during, and after a 4 minute plantar flexion exercise in a supine position. The data showed that there was a significant difference between the groups in terms of the PCr/(Pi + PCr) ratio at rest (P = 0.03) and the maximum rate of mitochondrial ATP production (V(max)) (P < 0.01). In addition, V(max) was inversely correlated with the scale for the assessment and rating of ataxia score (r = -0.34, P = 0.04). The MJD group also showed a reduction in V(max) over the course of 2 years (P < 0.05). These data suggest that this noninvasive measurement of muscle energy metabolism may represent a surrogate marker for MJD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Manual dilatation of the anal sphincter and transanal introduction of the circular stapling device are required for intraluminal stapling anastomosis. This procedure has been regarded as one of the causes of postoperative evacuatory disorder in low anterior resection. However, there has been no evidence of this matter. Therefore, we conducted this study to clarify the impact of the procedure of stapling anastomosis on postoperative anal function. Methods: Twenty-five cases with sigmoid colon cancer underwent potentially curative sigmoid colectomy with stapling anastomosis (ST group) and 20 cases with hand-sewn anastomosis (non-ST group). The patients were questioned regarding the daily frequency of bowel movement, the presence of urgency and soiling, and Wexner’s incontinence score. Anorectal manomatry and pudendal nerve terminal motor latency were also evaluated. The patients’ questionnaire and physiologic examinations were prospectively obtained before, and 1 and 6 months after the operation. Results: Postoperative bowel habit was graded as satisfied in 92% (23/25 patients) in the ST group and 90% (18/20 patients) in the non-ST group. There was no significant difference between the 2 groups in terms of presence of fecal incontinence, discrimination of gas and stool, and daily frequency of bowel movement. In anal manometry, there was no significant difference between the 2 groups regarding the resting and squeezing anal canal sphincter pressures at 1 and 6 months postoperatively. Pudendal nerve terminal motor latency showed their latency from 2.0 to 2.5 ms throughout the periods, and there was no difference between the 2 groups before, and 1 and 6 months after the operation. Conclusion: Stapling anastomosis does not affect anal function in the early postoperative period. Copyright © 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A possibility of half-metallic ferromagnetism for the homogeneous phase in the half-Heusler alloy-based DMS CoTi1− xFe xSb is predicted. A phase diagram of the spinodal and binodal decomposition is constructed through the evaluation of the mixing free energies. By applying the Monte Carlo simulation method to the Ising model with realistic chemical pair interactions between Fe magnetic impurities, we simulate the spinodal decomposition and nanoscale separation in this alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structural and magnetic properties of XYSi (X = Ni, Pd, Pt; Y = Mn and Cr) are investigated through the ab initio calculation of the electronic structure, equilibrium lattice constant, magnetic exchange interaction and Curie temperature. The role of X and Y elements in the opening of the minority spin gap is discussed. The Fermi level lies closer to the conduction band for slighter X or Y. XYSi is half-metallic ferromagnets at equilibrium lattice constant, except PdMnSi. The Curie temperature of 1076, 785 and 634 K has been predicted by Monte Carlo simulations for NiMnSi, PtMnSi and NiCrSi, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]