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Multiplex real-time PCR is a quick and cost effective method for detection of various gene simultaneously. HFSV (Hemorrhagic Fever Syndrome Virus) is a newly emerging infectious disease because of globalization and climate change. We tried to develop a molecular diagnostic technique for various causative viruses and evaluate its usefulness for improving public health. Molecular diagnostic test method that qualitatively detects viruses causing viral hemorrhagic fevers hired Taq-Man Real-time RT-PCR technique. The Ct value was experimentally observed three or more times at the RNA concentration before and after the detection limit. After designing a multiplex real-time RT-PCR test for target gene of selected 17 viruses, the detection limit for each target and the presence or absence of cross-reaction and interference reaction were evaluated to determine its availability. Six kinds of viruses, including Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus, Omsk hemorrhagic fever virus, Sabia virus, Chapare virus, Yellow fever virus, and Variola virus (A4L gene, B12R gene), were able to confirm the detection limit of 0.5 copies/μl, and other Ebola virus, Marburg virus, Rift Valley fever virus, Kyasanur Forest disease virus, Junin virus, Guanarito virus, Machupo virus, Chikungunya virus, Hantavirus, Dengue virus types 1–4, and Lassa virus (L gene, GPC gene), and 11 kinds of viruses, the detection limit was confirmed at 5 copies/μl. No cross-reaction or interference between detected genes was observed. The virus test method developed through this study using multiplex is expected to be used for public health and quarantine as a test method that can be used when a hemorrhagic fever virus of unknown cause is introduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Seismic velocity and anisotropy are mainly controlled by the elastic components of rock microstructure. Here we present a MATLAB program, GassDem (Gassmann Differential effective medium), for modeling anisotropic seismic properties from rock microstructure using differential effective medium (DEM) theory and Gassmann's (1951) poroelastic relationship. Modeling provides a method to overcome the limitations of laboratory measurements, which are unable to reach realistic temperature and pressure conditions. DEM models a two-phase composite that consists of a background medium and inclusions. Components of the rock microstructure, such as porosity, crack geometry, and fluid type in the cracks, are considered to be inclusion properties in DEM theory. Gassmann's poroelastic relationship is used to calculate the elastic stiffness for fluid-saturated rocks. In the formulation of the DEM model, we achieve high numerical efficiency, particularly for inclusions with large aspect ratios, by taking the Fourier transform of the tensor Green's function and using the symmetry of the tri-axial ellipsoid to reduce the amount of integration. We provide examples of DEM modeling and a description for users to replicate the examples using the GassDem graphical user interface, or using a MATLAB script. Highlights • MATLAB program for DEM scheme and Gassmann's poroelastic relationship. • Modelling of elastic properties reflecting the microstructure of rocks. • Calculation of the tensor Green's function using Fourier integrals. • Kelvin tensor to preserve elastic energy density with the advantages in tensor algebra. • High numerical efficiency, particularly for inclusions with large aspect ratios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract V-doped semi-insulating (VDSI) SiC crystal is a promising substrate for high-frequency electronic devices achieved using GaN epitaxial films. However, V doping in a SiC crystal is difficult to control owing to the different sublimation temperatures of VC and SiC. The amount of V changes depending on the growth sequence, which has been a significant concern in VDSI SiC substrates in terms of wafer reliability. In this study, therefore, we aimed to synthesize a single source by vaporizing Si, C, and V under the same conditions to improve the doping issue in VDSI SiC. We synthesized V-doped SiC powder as the starting material for VDSI SiC substrate based on thermodynamic modeling, and the synthesized powder was used to grow a VDSI SiC crystal via physical vapor transport. Finally, considering the homogeneous V concentration in the grown crystal, the synthesized V-doped SiC was observed to be effective to grow VDSI SiC independent of the growth sequence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We define subducting plate geometries in the Nazca subduction zone by (re)locating intra-slab earthquakes in southern Peru (14–18°S) and using previously published converted phase analysis results to clarify the slab geometry and inferred relationships to the seismicity. We also provide both P - and S -wave velocity models of the subducting Nazca Plate and mantle layer above the slab using double-difference tomography to understand upper-plate volcanism and subduction zone process. The double-difference constraints for determining the hypocenters and velocity model ensure high accuracy of the relative location of earthquakes with respect to velocity structure. The relocated seismicity shows a smooth contortion in the slab-dip transition zone for ∼400 km between the shallow (30°)-to-flat dipping interface to the northwest and the 30°-dipping interface to the southeast. We find a significant slab-dip difference (up to 10°) between our results and previous slab models along the profile region sampling the horizontal slab at a depth of ∼85–95 km. Robust features in both P - and S -wave tomography inversions are both arc-normal and along-arc velocity variations. In the arc-normal direction, all profile results show that the slab velocities beneath the forearc (down to a depth of ∼100 km) transition to higher velocities beneath the backarc (at ∼100–140 km depth). In the along-arc direction, velocities of the subducting flat slab are shown to be depressed compared to those of the normal-dip slab. In addition, high shear-wave velocities and low Vp / Vs are detected in the mantle layer above the flat slab, indicating its cold and dry environment. Such differences in the velocity structures for the slab and mantle wedge between the two regions may indicate different hydration states, which greatly affects the upper-plate structure of southern Peru. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, by combining photopolymerization and particle leaching technique, in situ formation of porous hydrogel with pore interconnectivity was demonstrated in vivo upon subcutaneous injection into the back of mice as well as in vitro . A precursor solution containing thiolated heparin, PEG-diacrylate (PEG-DA), and gelatin microparticles (GMPs) as a fast dissolving porogen were photopolymerized by visible-light-initiated thiol-ene reaction with eosin Y (EY) as a photo initiator and triethanolamine (TEOA) as a co-initiator. Formation of porous structure of the hydrogel after subsequent leaching of GMPs was confirmed in an animal model as well as in a physiological environment. The physical characteristics of the hydrogel were analyzed, and the acute in vivo biocompatibility of this system was characterized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We provide teleseismic constraints on the continental collision zone along the SW-NE profile from the Tibetan Plateau to the Alxa block, traversing Lenglong Ling, a topographic boundary of the northeastern Tibetan Plateau. Our seismic profile crosses the Qilian Shan thrust belt, a zone of intense earthquake activity that includes a pair of M W 5.9 earthquakes (in 1986 and 2016) with a 30-year time interval occurring at the city of Menyuan near Lenglong Ling. A high degree of similarity between the two waveforms and their similar hypocenters indicate that the two events are repeating earthquakes. Both P - and S -wave receiver functions show contrasting lithospheric structure and crustal seismic properties across the repeating earthquake region, suggesting that Lenglong Ling can be the crustal boundary between the Tibetan Plateau and the Alxa block. High-frequency P receiver functions clearly show a SW-dipping underthrusted upper crust beneath the foreland of the Qilian Shan thrust belt. A strong low-velocity feature above the intracrustal underthrust beneath southwest Lenglong Ling indicates a mechanically weak zone developed coeval with the main compressional deformation during the last major tectonic event. Our observed, localized upper-crustal deformation beneath Lenglong Ling can be direct evidence of the lateral growth of the northeastern Tibetan Plateau, and can control the seismicity of the Qilian Shan thrust belt, including the Menyuan repeating earthquakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effect of heavy monsoon rains on the environmental levels of 13 veterinary pharmaceuticals was investigated. Kyungahn Stream has an annual average flow rate (AVF) of 4.2 m 3 /s and receives runoffs from agricultural areas and livestock farms scattered in the upper stream area, and Han River has an AVF of 845 m 3 /s with four sewage treatment plants with individual capacities of > 1 million m 3 /day. Grab samples collected in three different rain seasons, before, during, and after rain, were analyzed. Kyungahn Stream and Han River showed completely different patterns of environmental levels of pharmaceuticals: the former had higher detection rates and concentrations of the pharmaceuticals during and after rainy season, implying direct influence by rainfalls, whereas in the latter, higher detection rates were observed before rain (1236 ng/L of oxytetracycline (OTC), 2093 ng/L of tetracycline (TC), and 793 ng/L of chlorotetracycline (ChTC) as the highest values). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More than a decade after the discovery of deep episodic slow slip and tremor, or slow earthquakes, at subduction zones, much research has been carried out to investigate the structural and seismic properties of the environment in which they occur. Slow earthquakes generally occur on the megathrust fault some distance downdip of the great earthquake seismogenic zone in the vicinity of the mantle wedge corner, where three major structural elements are in contact: the subducting oceanic crust, the overriding forearc crust and the continental mantle. In this region, thermo-petrological models predict significant fluid production from the dehydrating oceanic crust and mantle due to prograde metamorphic reactions, and their consumption by hydrating the mantle wedge. These fluids are expected to affect the dynamic stability of the megathrust fault and enable slow slip by increasing pore-fluid pressure and/or reducing friction in fault gouges. Resolving the fine-scale structure of the deep megathrust fault and the in situ distribution of fluids where slow earthquakes occur is challenging, and most advances have been made using teleseismic scattering techniques (e.g., receiver functions). In this paper we review the teleseismic structure of six well-studied subduction zones (three hot, i.e., Cascadia, southwest Japan, central Mexico, and three cool, i.e., Costa Rica, Alaska, and Hikurangi) that exhibit slow earthquake processes and discuss the evidence of structural and geological controls on the slow earthquake behavior. We conclude that changes in the mechanical properties of geological materials downdip of the seismogenic zone play a dominant role in controlling slow earthquake behavior, and that near-lithostatic pore-fluid pressures near the megathrust fault may be a necessary but insufficient condition for their occurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to identify how hydrologic factors (e.g., rainfall, maximum depth, reservoir and catchment area, and water residence time) and water chemistry factors (e.g., conductivity, pH, suspended particulate matter, chlorophyll-a, dissolved organic carbon, and sulfate) interact to affect the spatial variance in monomethylmercury (MMHg) concentration in nine artificial reservoirs. We hypothesized that the MMHg concentration of reservoir water would be higher in eutrophic than in oligotrophic reservoirs because increased dissolved organic matter and sulfate in eutrophic reservoirs can promote in situ production of MMHg. Multiple tools, including Pearson correlation, a self-organizing map, and principal component analysis, were applied in the statistical modeling of Hg species. The results showed that rainfall amount and hydraulic residence time best explained the variance of dissolved Hg and dissolved MMHg in reservoir water. High precipitation events and residence time may mobilize Hg and MMHg in the catchment and reservoir sediment, respectively. On the contrary, algal biomass was a key predictor of the variance of the percentage fraction of unfiltered MMHg over unfiltered Hg (%MMHg). The creation of suboxic conditions and the supply of sulfate subsequent to the algal decomposition seemed to support enhanced %MMHg in the bloom reservoirs. Thus, the nutrient supply should be carefully managed to limit increases in the %MMHg/Hg of temperate reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We review geophysical and geochemical properties in the vicinity of the stagnant Pacific slab beneath northeast China, Korea and Japan to understand the origin and current state of intraplate volcanism in East Asia. East Asia has been susceptible to intensive volcanism since the Cretaceous. In particular, during the Cenozoic, Jeju Island, Korea is the most significant volcanic construct in East Asia. The generation of adakites and A-type granitoids littered throughout East Asia during the Cretaceous has been previously explained by the subduction of the Izanagi–Pacific ridge system. However, a recently revised plate reconstruction model does not comprise such a tectonic episode and consequently fails to explain adakites in arc magmatism during the Cretaceous. Thus, we propose an alternative hypothesis: temporal plume–slab interaction on the source of East Asian magmatism in order to trigger the adakites in arc magmatism without ridge subduction. In addition, we provide an overview on the tectonics and volcanism of Jeju Island during the Cenozoic in the context of the lithospheric structure from seismological constraints and recent geochemical results. The main scientific aims are to understand the consequences of mantle mixing in response to long-term subduction and subsequent changes on the stress state to determine the distribution of chemical heterogeneities, and thus define the origin and development of intraplate volcanism in East Asia. Although geophysical and geochemical data for Jeju Island are not sufficient at present, we strongly state that Jeju Island and the surrounding regions hold a key to unraveling the source of intraplate magmatism since the Cretaceous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A p H-responsive nanofibrous mesh was prepared for the controlled release of antibiotics in response to p H changes. Eudragit EPO ( EPO) and Eudragit L100 ( L100) were injected through inner and outer needle and simultaneously electrospun through coaxial nozzles composed of inner and outer needles. Various amounts of EPO and L100 were coejected with tetracycline through the needle and simultaneously electrospun to the fibrous meshes. The mass erosion rates of the meshes at p H 6.0 gradually decreased as the amounts of EPO increased, whereas those at p H 2.0 showed negligible differences; these differences were confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and monitoring the dry weight changes. At p H 6.0, the fibrous structures of the meshes rapidly disappeared compared to those under acidic conditions because Eudragit L100 is localized to the shell of the nanofiber during the electrospinning process. Both the p H changes and the blend ratio of the two polymers significantly affected the tetracycline release; tetracycline was rapidly released from the meshes at p H 6.0, whereas the release rates were attenuated at p H 2.0. Tetracycline was released faster from the mesh at higher blend ratios of EPO for both p H values. The electrostatic interaction between EPO and L100 is expected to yield different release profiles of tetracycline. Consequently, higher amounts of encapsulated drugs were released from the mesh at neutral pH and successfully inhibited bacterial growth. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 104:2611-2618, 2015 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Excess iron induces tissue damage and is implicated in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Iron toxicity is widely attributed to hydroxyl radical formation through Fenton’s reaction. We report that excess iron, but not other Fenton catalytic metals, induces activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, a pathway also implicated in AMD. Additionally, iron-induced degeneration of the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) is suppressed in mice lacking inflammasome components caspase-1/11 or Nlrp3 or by inhibition of caspase-1. Iron overload increases abundance of RNAs transcribed from short interspersed nuclear elements (SINEs): Alu RNAs and the rodent equivalent B1 and B2 RNAs, which are inflammasome agonists. Targeting Alu or B2 RNA prevents iron-induced inflammasome activation and RPE degeneration. Iron-induced SINE RNA accumulation is due to suppression of DICER1 via sequestration of the co-factor poly(C)-binding protein 2 (PCBP2). These findings reveal an unexpected mechanism of iron toxicity, with implications for AMD and neurodegenerative diseases associated with excess iron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Public concerns about water pollution have led to the assessment of risks associated with waterborne pollutants. The water intake rate is a key exposure factor that needs to be employed in the risk assessment of water contaminants. However, water consumption patterns vary considerably due to many factors, including region, culture, and time. Because limited information is available on the water intake rate in Asian countries, we carried out a nationwide survey using an online questionnaire to assess the direct tap water and beverage consumption within the general Korean population. To measure seasonal variation in water consumption, this survey was conducted twice, in the spring (n =1092) and summer (n =1148) of 2006. Water intake rates were assessed by age, gender, season, and region. The average rate total water intake was 2566.2ml/day (direct tap water 1015.9ml/day; beverage 1073.0ml/day; indirect tap water 477.3ml/day) in the spring. Indirect tap water intake through the consumption of water-rich dishes occupies 18.5% of average total water intake. In the summer, the average consumption of direct tap water and beverages increased by up to 19.7 and 7.6%, respectively. For the exposure assessment of water related environmental contaminants, a value of 1493mg/L is proposed as a central tendency value and for a reasonable maximum, a value of 2914mg/L (90th percentile) is suggested. This exposure factor may be used in regions with geographic and ethnic characteristics similar to Korea. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Aim of the study: Although treatment with the essential oil of lavender induces neuroemotional changes, there is a lack of data regarding its specific effects on neurotransduction, especially dopaminergic neurotransduction. We investigated the relationship between altered motor activity and changes in the expression of dopamine receptors (DR), particularly the receptor subtypes D2 and D3, in lavender oil-treated mice. Materials and methods: After the administration of lavender oil (intraperitoneal injections of 10–1000mg/kg lavender oil once per day for 5 days), motor coordination and dopamine receptor expression were examined in the olfactory bulb and the striatum of the mouse brain. Results: After 5 days, mice treated with 1000mg/kg lavender oil showed significantly increased rotarod activity when compared to controls. Although DRD2 expression showed no change in the olfactory bulb or striatum of lavender-treated mice, DRD3 expression increased significantly in the olfactory bulb; this increase was dose-dependent and was observed at both the mRNA and protein levels. Conclusions: These data indicate that altered dopamine D3 receptor subtype homeostasis in the olfactory bulb may contribute to lavender oil-induced behavioral change. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Surfactin is one of the most powerful biosurfactants, and is known to have antibiotic, anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory functions. In this study, we investigated the effect of surfactin on antigen-presenting property of macrophages. Thioglycollate-elicited mouse peritoneal macrophages were tested for surface molecule expression, cytokine production, phagocytosis, capacity to induce T cell activation by mixed lymphocyte reaction, and underlying signaling pathways. Surfactin significantly suppressed lipopolysaccharide-induced expression of CD40, CD54, CD80, and MHC-II, but not of CD86 and MHC-I. Surfactin-treated macrophages also exhibited impaired phagocytosis and reduced IL-12 expression. And surfactin markedly inhibited the activation of CD4+ T cells. Impaired translocation and activation of NF-κB p65 were founded on macrophages exposed to surfactin. In addition, surfactin inhibited the phosphorylation and degradation of IκB-α, and suppressed the activation of IKK, Akt, JNK and p38 kinase. These results suggest that surfactin impair the antigen-presenting function of macrophages by inhibiting the expression of MHC-II and costimulatory molecules via suppression of NF-κB, p38, JNK and Akt. These novel findings provide new insight into the immunopharmacological role of surfactin in autoimmune disease and transplantation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We collected influent and effluent samples from four sewage treatment plants (STPs) as well as surface water samples in Han River of Seoul, Korea, in three sampling events representing different flow conditions, i.e., April, June, and August, 2005, and analyzed for eleven pharmaceuticals including acetaminophen, caffeine, carbamazepine, cimetidine, diltiazem, trimethoprim, and five sulfonamide antibiotics, using LC-MS-ESI. Pharmaceuticals of high annual production amount were detected in higher level in STP influents. Levels of pharmaceutical residues in the influents were the highest for acetaminophen (average 27,089 ng/L), followed by caffeine (23,664 ng/L), cimetidine (8045 ng/L), and sulfamethoxazole (523 ng/L). Levels of acetaminophen and caffeine in STP effluents were very low compared to the influent concentrations. However cimetidine was detected in relatively high levels even in STP effluent samples. In effluent samples, cimetidine showed the highest level (5380 ng/L), followed by caffeine (278 ng/L), sulfamethoxazole (193 ng/L), and carbamazepine (111 ng/L). The concentration of cimetidine was also the highest in surface water samples (average 281 ng/L), which is the highest level reported from surface water worldwide to our knowledge. Caffeine (268.7 ng/L), acetaminophen (34.8 ng/L), and sulfamethoxazole (26.9 ng/L) were also detected in relatively high levels. Levels of pharmaceuticals detected in surface water samples upstream STPs were generally very low compared to the downstream samples, suggesting that the STPs potentially be a major source of the test pharmaceuticals into Han River. The hazard quotients (HQs) were calculated for the test pharmaceuticals based on their occurrences in surface water, and no pharmaceutical resulted in HQ greater than one, suggesting that their potential environmental impact may be low. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Pharmaceuticals are manufactured and used for specific biological functions in veterinary and human medicine. Their detection in the environment and their bioactivity have resulted in concern for potential adverse effects on non-target species. Notwithstanding recent attention for their occurrence in the environment, there are significant research gaps for existing pharmaceuticals with regard to their potential ecological consequences. In this study, the four most abundantly used pharmaceuticals in Korea, namely acetaminophen, carbamazepine, cimetidine, and diltiazem, and six sulfonamide related antibiotics, including sulfamethoxazole, sulfachlorpyridazine, sulfathiazole, sulfamethazine, sulfadimethoxine, and trimethoprim were examined for their acute aquatic toxicity employing a marine bacterium (Vibrio fischeri), a freshwater invertebrate (Daphnia magna), and the Japanese medaka fish (Oryzias latipes). In general, Daphnia was the most susceptible among the test organisms. The most acutely toxic among the chemicals tested in this study was diltiazem, with a median lethal concentration of 8. 2 mg/L for D. Magna. The resulting acute toxicity of these pharmaceuticals was reasonably predicted by physicochemical descriptors such as pH-dependent distribution coefficient and E HOMO − E LUMO gap. Predicted environmental concentrations (PECs) derived for the test pharmaceuticals in Korea ranged between 0. 14 and 16. 5 μg/L. Hazard quotients derived from PECs and predicted no effect concentrations (PNECs) for sulfamethoxazole and acetaminophen were 6. 3 and 1. 8, respectively, suggesting potential environmental concerns and a need for further investigation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Seismic anisotropy of polycrystalline materials depends on the characteristics of microcracks as well as the crystallographic orientations of minerals. Here, we present a MATLAB-based software, AnisEulerSC (Anis otropy from Euler angles using S elf- C onsistent approximation), for modeling the anisotropic seismic properties of a polycrystalline aggregate with microcracks using the self-consistent approximation. In this program, several commands of MTEX (a MATLAB toolbox for texture analysis) are utilized to analyze constituent components of a rock sample based on experimental measurement data (e.g., electron backscatter diffraction) and to calculate and visualize seismic wave velocities and polarizations. We provide several examples of SC modeling to explore the effects of grain shapes on a polycrystalline aggregate and the effects of crack shapes and orientations on the anisotropic seismic properties of a polycrystalline aggregate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Pn waveforms are sensitive to the gradients of crust-mantle transition zone (CMTZ). • Southern Korea features sharp Moho while eastern China Moho shows variability. Abstract The seismic velocity structure of the crust-mantle transition zone (CMTZ) provides key constraints on crustal dynamics, and can be studied with Pn wave which propagates horizontally along the Moho discontinuity. In this study, we first explore an effect of velocity-gradient structures in the CMTZ through synthetic Pn waveforms, and demonstrate that the shape of Pn changes from step-like to pulse-like when the CMTZ becomes from sharp to a gradient velocity structure, respectively. We then use Pn waveforms of the regional earthquakes (the July 2012 Mw 4.8 earthquake in east China and the September 2016 Mw 5.1 earthquake in South Korea) to examine the CMTZ structures to the west and east of the Yellow Sea and thus to constrain tectonic affinity between the eastern China and southern Korean Peninsula. The Pn waveforms from the Mw 4.8 event in east China show that the Moho in southern Yangtze Craton is sharp whereas there may be a gradient structure in CMTZ with a 6–10 km thickness in northern Yangtze Craton. The Pn waveforms from the Mw 5.1 event in South Korea show that the CMTZ in South Korea is also sharp, similar to the southern Yangtze Craton. Observed difference in CMTZ structures suggest that Sulu Orogenic Belt may extend along the north of the Gyeonggi Massif in Korea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated monomethylmercury (MMHg) concentrations in 448 samples of four common fish species (barbel steed, largemouth bass, leopard mandarin, and bluegill) and the trophic states of 14 artificial reservoirs in South Korea in order to understand how trophic states of reserviors affect MMHg concentrations in fish. The trophic state index (TSI) of each reservoir was determined using empirical equations based on the monthly chlorophyll-a, total phosphorus, and Secchi depth, collected over a three-year period. The length-normalized MMHg concentrations in fish showed a negative correlation with the TSI based on chlorophyll-a (r 2 = 0.90) and total phosphorus (r 2 = 0.75) that may be a result of particle dilution of MMHg in surface waters. This study revealed that MMHg accumulation in fish was better correlated with TSI than MMHg in water, therefore, we suggest that the measurement of TSI based on chlorophyll-a and total phosphorus is an effective way to predict MMHg bioaccumulation across diverse reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In the processing of single crystal SiC using the PVT method, defects such as micropipes and dislocations occur due to various reasons, including growth rate, temperature gradient, seed quality, pressure change and the SiC source powder. Among these factors, the SiC source powder was investigated to reduce defects in single crystal SiC. β-SiC powder was used to reduce the growth temperature and change basic properties of the particle, including microstructure, particle size and chemical composition, through the purification process. The structure of the purified β-SiC particle was changed into a spherical structure and its particle size expanded. Chemical analysis revealed reduced free carbon, oxide phases such as silica (SiO2), silicon oxycarbide and metallic impurities. Purified β-SiC powder showed increased particle size of 37µm and showed improved purity. With this, we grew single crystal 4H SiC and compared the micropipe and dislocation density to that of single crystal 4H SiC grown with non-purified β-SiC powder. The experimental results confirmed that the 4H SiC wafer grown by purified β-SiC powder exhibited improved quality. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Despite data supporting an immune-modulating effect of ar-turmerone in vitro, the underlying signaling pathways are largely unknown. Here, we investigated the anti-neuroinflammatory properties of ar-turmerone in LPS-stimulated BV-2 microglial cells. Increased pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, PGE2, NO and ROS production and MMP-9 enzymatic activity in LPS-stimulated microglial cells was inhibited by ar-turmerone. Subsequent mechanistic studies revealed that ar-turmerone inhibited LPS-induced JNK, p38 MAPK and NF-κB activation. Furthermore, ar-turmerone decreased the phosphorylation of LPS-induced STAT-1. Additionally, ar-turmerone increased the phosphorylation of STAT-3, an anti-inflammatory transcription factor. We next demonstrated that ar-turmerone induced HO-1 and Nrf-2 activation suppressed the activation of neuroinflammatory molecules in LPS-induced microglial cells, and that down-regulation of HO-1 signals was sufficient to induce the expression of iNOS, COX-2 and ROS production in microglial cells. Interestingly, we found that ar-turmerone induced phosphorylation of CREB by upregulating the cAMP level in microglial cells. Furthermore, HO-1 activation via PKA-mediated CREB phosphorylation attenuated the expression of neuroinflammatory molecules in LPS-induced microglial cells. Overall, the results of this study demonstrate that HO-1 and its upstream effectors PKA play a pivotal role in the anti-neuroinflammatory response of ar-turmerone in LPS-stimulated microglia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this study, we prepared a perfectly ordered nacre-mimetic composite from plate-like alumina particles and epoxy resin using a rolling method. A specific feature of this method is that it progressively aligns the component particles along a single direction regardless of the product thickness at resin contents as low as 25 wt%. The obtained composite exhibited a strength as high as 200 MPa during bending. However, to examine the mechanical properties of artificial nacre, various factors such as the types of initial components and their particle sizes, contents, and orientation degrees must be considered. Hence, this study consists of two parts. The present work (which constitutes the first part) is focused on the orientation effect produced by the plate-like particles and deformation behavior of the composites observed at different orientation degrees. It was found that the obtained composite material with perfectly ordered particles exhibited pull-out behavior similar to that of natural nacre (including the crack propagation route). Further, the fracture toughness of the composite, which was higher than that of alumina, was also affected by its orientation degree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer-derived ceramic environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) in combination with active fillers are highly attractive due to their facile processing and applicability at elevated temperatures. In this study, several kinds of active and passive fillers were added to polymer-derived ceramics and then coated onto carbon steel, using cheap and simple lacquer methods (such as dip or spray coating). The resultant coating, investigated by Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), Scanning Electron Microscopy with X-ray microanalysis (SEM/EDS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), adhesion tests and oxidation tests, showed that it acted as an excellent film to withstand thermal cycling, and prevented carbon steel from being oxidized at elevated temperatures. The low-cost and effective coating method described in this paper can be used widely to protect carbon steel used at high temperatures (e.g. steel boiler tubes in waste-to-energy plants). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SiC crystal growth using the top seeded solution growth (TSSG) method involves the precipitation of solid SiC from carbon that is dissolved in a silicon melt. The growth rate of SiC is strongly influenced by the solubility of C in liquid Si, which is quite low. In this study, the dissolution of C from graphite to the Si melt was explored by observing the formation of an SiC interlayer at a graphite – Si liquid interface. The SiC interlayer was observed to become thickened during the several hours needed to reach a certain thickness at 1500 °C. Assuming that the SiC interlayer is a direct C source, a pre-formed SiC layer was coated on the graphite crucible to evaluate its effect on the concentration of C in the Si melt. As a result, the concentration of C in the Si melt increased within a short time, especially at low temperatures. By applying the SiC coated crucible to the TSSG process for SiC crystal growth, we confirmed that the development of a pre-formed SiC layer enhanced the growth rate of SiC crystals, especially at the initial stage of crystal growth at low temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SiC was sintered by spark plasma sintering (SPS) using polycarbosilane (PCS), and the effects of pressure on the sintering behavior of SiC during SPS were investigated. The pressure conditions were set as 40 and 80 MPa, and pyrolyzed PCS was used to induce reactive sintering during heat treatment such as pyrolysis, crystallization, and crystal growth. According to the results, a high pressure accelerated the reactions in samples and resulted in a high-density body consisting of small-sized grains; however, it induced a phase transition to the α phase, which is stable at high temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Mice exposed to 2-methylbutyric acid exhibit increased olfactory avoidance and rotarod activity. [•] Inhalation exposure to 2-methylbutyric acid increased the expression of eNOS in the olfactory bulb of mice. [•] Behavioral effects of 2-methylbutyric acid may be mediated through the altered NOS homeostasis in the olfactory bulb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: The roots of Achyranthes japonica Nakai have been used in traditional herbal medicine for the treatment of edema and arthritis in Korea. Aim of the study: In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanism responsible for anti-inflammatory effects of the aqueous extract of A. japonica roots (AJ) in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Materials and methods: Nitric oxide (NO) production and as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression were examined in TG-elicited peritoneal macrophages and RAW 264.7 cells. Cell viability was monitored by MTT assay. Protein and mRNA expressions were determined by Western blotting and RT-PCR, respectively. The activity of NF-κB and Nrf2 were examined by EMSA, immunocytochemistry or reporter assay. Results: AJ inhibited LPS-induced NO secretion as well as iNOS expression, without affecting cell viability. Furthermore, AJ suppressed LPS-induced NF-κB activation, degradation of IκB-α, phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38. Further study demonstrated that AJ induced heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) gene expression via nuclear translocation and transactivation of Nrf2. In addition, the inhibitory effects of AJ on iNOS expression were abrogated by small interfering RNA-mediated knock-down of HO-1. Conclusions: These results suggest that AJ suppresses LPS-induced NO production and iNOS expression in macrophages through the inhibition of IκB/NF-κB and MAPK as well as the Nrf2-mediated HO-1 induction. These findings provide the scientific rationale for anti-inflammatory therapeutic use of A. japonica roots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Amyloid β (Aβ) induces the production of neuroinflammatory molecules, which may contribute to the pathogenesis of numerous neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, suppression of neuroinflammatory molecules could be developed as a therapeutic method. Aromatic (ar)-turmerone, turmeric oil isolated from Curcuma longa, has long been used in Southeast Asia as both a remedy and a food. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of ar-turmerone in BV2 microglial cells. Aβ-stimulated microglial cells were tested for the expression and activation of MMP-9, iNOS, and COX-2, the production of proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and ROS, as well as the underlying signaling pathways. Ar-turmerone significantly suppressed Aβ-induced expression and activation of MMP-9, iNOS, and COX-2, but not MMP-2. Ar-turmerone also reduced TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and MCP-1 production in Aβ-stimulated microglial cells. Further, ar-turmerone markedly inhibited the production of ROS. Impaired translocation and activation of NF-κB were observed in Aβ-stimulated microglial cells exposed to ar-turmerone. Furthermore, ar-turmerone inhibited the phosphorylation and degradation of IκB-α as well as the phosphorylation of JNK and p38 MAPK. These results suggest that ar-turmerone impaired the Aβ-induced inflammatory response of microglial cells by inhibiting the NF-κB, JNK, and p38 MAPK signaling pathways. Lastly, ar-turmerone protected hippocampal HT-22 cells from indirect neuronal toxicity induced by activated microglial cells. These novel findings provide new insights into the development of ar-turmerone as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is a potent anti-inflammatory molecule that regulates pro-inflammatory mediators. Several studies have indicated that HO-1 expression is induced by a variety of stimuli such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), cytokines, oxidative stress, and antioxidant phytochemicals. In this study, we assessed the anti-inflammatory effects of a novel α-iso-cubebenol isolated from dried fruits of Schisandra chinensis in human macrophage THP-1 cells and investigated the involvement of HO-1 signaling. We first observed that α-iso-cubebenol induced HO-1 mRNA and protein expression in a dose- and time-dependent manner via activation of erythroid-specific nuclear factor-regulated factor 2 (Nrf2). We also found that α-iso-cubebenol induced phosphorylation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt and extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK) in a time-dependent manner. Furthermore, treatment of THP-1 cells with inhibitors and siRNA specific for PI3K/Akt and ERK decreased the expression of HO-1. These results suggested that α-iso-cubebenol induced HO-1 expression through the activation of PI3K/Akt, ERK, and Nrf2 signaling. Next, α-iso-cubebenol strongly inhibited Porphyromonas gingivalis LPS-stimulated pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-12). Moreover, we observed that α-iso-cubebenol treatment inhibited nuclear levels and activity of NF-κB in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, treatment with tin-protoporphyrin (SnPP), a selective inhibitor of HO-1, reversed the α-iso-cubebenol-mediated inhibition of P. gingivalis LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines. Hence, α-iso-cubebenol might induce anti-inflammatory effects on P. gingivalis LPS-stimulated human THP-1 macrophages by mediating the activation of PI3k/Akt and ERK that leads to over-expression of HO-1 and Nrf-2. These findings suggest that α-iso-cubebenol may be considered as a novel therapeutic agent to ameliorate periodontitis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The lipopolysaccharide (LPS) of Porphyromonas gingivalis is thought to induce periodontitis. In this study, we isolated Schisandrin from the dried fruits of Schisandra chinensis and examined the anti-inflammatory effect of Schisandrin in macrophages stimulated with LPS from P. gingivalis. First, Schisandrin inhibited LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. And Schisandrin suppressed the nuclear translocation and activity of NF-κB and phosphorylation of IκBα in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Next, the presence of a selective inhibitor of HO-1 (SnPP) and a siRNA specific for HO-1 inhibited Schisandrin-mediated anti-inflammatory activity. Furthermore, Schisandrin induced HO-1 expression of RAW 264.7 cells through Nrf-2, PI3K/Akt, and ERK activation. Therefore, these results suggest that the anti-inflammatory effects of Schisandrin on P. gingivalis LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells may be due to a reduction of NF-κB activity and induction of the expression of HO-1, leading to TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 down-regulation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Several lanostane triterpenes [butyl ganoderate A (1), butyl ganoderate B (2), butyl lucidenate N (3), and butyl lucidenate A (4)] bearing a butyl ester side chain from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma lucidum exhibited considerable inhibitory effects on adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells. The inhibitory mechanism of 1 and 3 on adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells was investigated; we found that the mRNA and protein expression levels of SREBP-1c were reduced by treatment with 1 and 3 versus the untreated control. Furthermore, compounds 1 and 3 suppressed the mRNA expression levels of FAS and ACC. These results demonstrate that inhibition of adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells by treatment with 1 and 3 may be mediated in part through down-regulation of the adipogenic transcription factor SREBP-1c and its target genes, such as FAS and ACC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The separation of synthetic dye Rhodamine 6G (R6G) and water was investigated using blended organic liquids in a supported liquid membrane (SLM) extraction system. Liquid membrane (LM) components include octyl alcohol (OcOH) as the dye extractant and a polysiloxane liquid as the stabilizing agent. Initial permeation results revealed the suitability of poly (phenyl methyl) siloxane (PPMS) over poly (octyl methyl) siloxane as the blending agent. The most acceptable condition for dye extraction was determined at feed solution pH≅1, wherein highest distribution coefficient, KD (OcOH/H2O)=18, was attained. Though permeability decreased at optimal blending condition of 1:1 (w/w) OcOH/PPMS, SLM longevity was exhibited with>98% LM retention after 15h operation in contrast to pure OcOH SLM system (>60% LM loss). Equilibrium experiments reveal that dye extraction followed Langmuir adsorption principle. The dye transport was elucidated using mass transfer analysis wherein it showed a decrease in overall coefficient (ko ) at increasing feed concentrations. This was a direct consequence of KD decline, which becomes more apparent at higher concentrations when SLM saturation point is approached. At varied hydrodynamic conditions, improved ko values were observed up to Reω =10,000 when minimal variation in film resistance is attained. Beyond this condition, ko becomes independent from stirring rate effect nonetheless SLM stability is compromised due to shear-induced LM losses. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Aim of the study: The roots of Dichroa febrifuga Lour. have been used as a traditional antimalarial drug and also used in the treatment of productive cough and unstable fever caused by infection in China and Korea. In this study, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory effect and underlying molecular mechanism of aqueous extract of Dichroa febrifuga (AEDF) in C57BL/6 mouse peritoneal macrophages. Materials and methods: The effect of AEDF on proinflammatory cytokine (IL-1β and IL-6) production was analyzed by ELISA and real-time RT-PCR. The effects of AEDF on NF-κB/IκB-α/IKK were measured by reporter assay (in RAW 264.7 cells), EMSA, Western blotting and kinase assay. The effects of AEDF on Akt and MAPKs activity were assayed by Western blotting. Results: AEDF inhibited the production of IL-1β and IL-6, NF-κB activation, IκB-α degradation, and IKK, Akt, ERK1/2 and JNK activities in LPS-stimulated mouse peritoneal macrophages. Conclusions: These results suggest that AEDF inhibits proinflammatory cytokine (IL-1β and IL-6) production in LPS-stimulated mouse peritoneal macrophages, and that these effects are mediated by the inhibition of the activity of IKK/IκB/NF-κB and the phosphorylation of Akt, ERK1/2, and JNK. Our results provide a molecular basis for understanding the inhibitory effects of Dichroa febrifuga roots on endotoxin-mediated inflammation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The thorns of Gleditsia sinensis LAM. (Leguminosae) have been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of inflammatory diseases including swelling, suppuration, carbuncle and skin diseases in China and Korea. In this study, we investigated the mechanism responsible for anti-inflammatory effects of Gleditsia sinensis thorns in RAW 264.7 macrophages. The aqueous extract of Gleditsia sinensis thorns (AEGS) inhibited LPS-induced NO secretion as well as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression, without affecting cell viability. Furthermore, AEGS suppressed LPS-induced NF-κB activation, phosphorylation and degradation of IκB-α, phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). These results suggest that AEGS has the inhibitory effects on LPS-induced NO production and iNOS expression in macrophages through blockade in the phosphorylation of MAPKs, following IκB-α degradation and NF-κB activation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]