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Paclitaxel‐coated balloons have demonstrated improved efficacy compared with uncoated percutaneous transluminal angioplasty for femoropopliteal artery disease. While applying a long balloon, twisting of the balloon can be occurred. We reported two cases with twisting of the Ranger drug‐coated balloon for treating superficial femoral artery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Network‐attached storage (NAS) is a system that uses a redundant array of disks (RAID) to create virtual disks comprising multiple disks and provide network services such as FTP, SSH, and WebDAV. Using these services, the NAS's virtual disks store data about individuals or groups, making them a critical analysis target for digital forensics. Well‐known storage manufacturers like Seagate, Synology, and NETGEAR use Linux‐based software RAID, and they usually support Berkeley RAID (e.g., RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10) as well as self‐developed hybrid RAID. Those manufacturers have published data on the introduction and features of hybrid RAID, but there is not enough information to reassemble RAID from a digital forensic perspective. Besides, digital forensic tools (such as EnCase, FTK, X‐ways, and RAID Reconstructor) do not support automatic RAID reassembly for hybrid RAID, so research on hybrid RAID reassembly methods is necessary. This paper analyzes the disk array composed of hybrid RAID and explains the layout of disk array, partition layout in hybrid RAID, and hybrid RAID configuration strategy. Furthermore, it suggests parameters that are required for RAID reassembly and then propose a hybrid RAID reassembly procedure using them. Finally, we propose a proof‐of‐concept tool (Hybrid RAID Reconstructor) that identifies hybrid RAID from disk array and parse RAID parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We propose a novel scheme for combining two adaptation terms of affine projection algorithms with different projection orders and step-sizes. The selection of the mixing parameter that determines the performance of the proposed combination scheme is derived by the largest decrease of the mean-square deviation. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm exhibits a fast convergence speed and a small steady-state misalignment. Moreover, the proposed algorithm achieves a low computational complexity in the steady-state. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We deal with analysis and experiments of a novel moving-coil-type synchronous permanent magnet planar motor (SPMPM) with reduced cogging force. Our previous study assumed that the equation of magnetic flux existing between a permanent magnet (PM) and core was a second-order polynomial, and the minimum cogging force was theoretically and geometrically calculated without FE analysis. In this paper, the cogging force of SPMPM with an iron core is calculated exactly using geometrical factors, which are desired for determining the magnetic flux density. The analytical results of the cogging force using the factors agree well with those obtained by FE analysis and experiment. Several methods for reducing the cogging force of the SPMPM, such as separation and arrangement of the iron core, addition of an extra core, and addition of auxiliary core teeth, are introduced in this paper. Velocity control experiments of the SPMPM with modified and unmodified cores are carried out and the results are compared with each other. The velocity ripple of SPMPM with a modified core is much smaller than that of SPMPM with an unmodified core. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Dissolved oxygen (DO)-controlled nar promoter expression vectors were constructed, and their expression efficiency was compared with that of the T7 promoter pET22 expression vector by expressing human growth hormone (hGH), enhanced green fluorescence protein (EGFP), and β-tyrosinase in Escherichia coli cells. The nar promoter expression vector pRBS, which was engineered with a 5′-untranslated region and ribosomal binding site for the T7 promoter, expressed hGH at a rate of up to 32% of the total cellular proteins (TCP) in E. coli W3110narL−. The expression level of hGH was further enhanced, up to ∼42% of the TCP, by adding the N-terminal peptide tag of β-galactosidase to hGH, which was comparable to the expression of ∼43% of the TCP in pET-lac:hGH/BL21(DE3). A further engineered expression vector, pRBS(fnr), which coexpressed fumarate/nitrate reductase (fnr), expressed more EGFP than pET22 in BL21(DE3). In addition, recombinant β-tyrosinase was successfully expressed at a rate of up to ∼45% of the TCP in pRBS(fnr) in W3110narL−. From these results, the DO-controlled nar promoter system developed in this study can be considered a reliable and cost-effective expression system for protein production, especially in large-scale fermentation, as an alternative to the pET/BL(DE3) system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various types of nanocrystals have extensively demonstrated significant advantages in magnetic, chemical, catalytic, and particularly optical properties. Still, some limitations prevent these properties from being utilized for improved biological imaging, therapeutics or micro/nano-optoelectronics. A recently emerging, facile approach employing oligonucleotide DNA or RNA for direct surface passivation of nanocrystals is showing promise to bridge the gap between functional potential and realization. Oligonucleotide capping can provide hydrophilic nature, target recognition capabilities, and enhanced cellular uptake for nanocrystals, with a simplified synthesis capable of both templating and functionalizing. We overview synthesis, properties, and applications of nucleic acid templated nanocrystals and contrast these with nanocrystals synthesized by more classical capping methods. Finally, we highlight areas of research in oligonucleotide templated nanocrystals that have been largely unexplored to date, where further investigations can provide many new insights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Escherichia coli has been the most widely used host for the production of recombinant proteins because it is the best characterized system in every aspect. Furthermore, the high cell density culture of recombinant E. coli has allowed production of various proteins with high yield and high productivities. Various cultivation strategies employing different host strains and expression systems have been successfully employed for the production of recombinant proteins. New strategies for strain improvement towards the goal of enhanced protein production are actively being developed based on high-throughput omics approaches such as transcriptomics and proteomics. This paper reviews recent advances in the production of recombinant proteins by high cell density culture of E. coli. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We developed a giant-grain silicon (GGS) by Ni-mediated crystallization of amorphous silicon (a-Si) with a silicon-nitride (SiN x ) cap layer. Ni particles were sputtered onto the SiN x /a-Si layer and then it was annealed at around 600°C. The Ni diffuses through a SiN x cap and then forms NiSi2 crystallites in a-Si, which is able to induce crystallization. The grain size can be controlled from a few to 100μm. The grain size can be increased with increasing the cap layer thickness or by decreasing the Ni density on the SiN x . The p-channel GGS poly-Si TFT exhibited a field-effect mobility of 101cm2/Vs and a threshold voltage of −3.6V and is very stable under gate or hot carrier bias-stress. These superior performances may be due to the smooth surface of GGS poly-Si and solid-phase crystallization of a-Si. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Recombinant Escherichia coli (E. coli) displaying lipase on the cell surface was examined as a whole cell biocatalyst for enantioselective resolution of racemic compounds. The Pseudomonas fluorescens lipase was displayed on the cell surface of E. coli by fusing the lipase gene to the Salmonella typhimurium outer membrane protein C (OmpC) gene by C-terminal deletion–fusion strategy. The localization of truncated OmpC-lipase fusion protein was confirmed by confocal microscopy and whole cell lipase activity. As an application for enantioselective biocatalyst, whole cell bioconversion was examined using cell surface displayed lipase. When racemic ethyl 3-hydroxybutyrate, methyl mandelate and cis-3-acetoxy-4-phenylazetidin-2-one were used as substrates, (R)-3-hydroxybutyric acid, (S)-mandelic acid and (3S, 4R)-cis-3-hydroxy-4-phenylazetidin-2-one were successfully obtained with the enantiomeric excess of greater than 99%. The cell surface displayed lipase was found to be maintained without much loss of activity and selectivity during 10 repeated reactions over 120h. These results suggest that cell surface displayed lipase has a high enantioselectivity, broad substrate specificity and reusability, which makes it an excellent system for the production of various optically active compounds. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

High-level production of human leptin by fed-batch culture of recombinant Escherichia coli using constitutive promoter system was investigated. For the constitutive expression of the obese gene encoding human leptin, the strong constitutive HCE promoter cloned from the d-amino acid aminotransferase gene of Geobacillus toebii was used. To develop an optimal host–vector system, several different recombinant E. coli strains were compared for leptin production. In flask cultures, E. coli FMJ123, which is a rpoS mutant strain, showed the highest level of leptin production (41% of total proteins). By comparing the expression levels of leptin in several different rpoS- and rpoS+ strains, it could be concluded that rpoS mutation positively affected constitutive production of leptin. For the large-scale production of human leptin, fed-batch cultures of recombinant E. coli FMJ123 were carried out using three different feeding solutions—chemically defined, yeast extract-containing, and casamino acid-containing feeding solutions. Among these, the use of casamino acid-containing feeding solution allowed production of leptin up to 2.1 g/L, which was 2.1- and 1.8-fold higher than that obtained with chemically defined and yeast extract-contained feeding solutions, respectively. These results suggest that the HCE promoter can be used for the efficient production of leptin, and most likely other recombinant proteins, in a constitutive manner. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Growth of large-grain polycrystalline silicon has been demonstrated using silicide-mediated crystallization of amorphous silicon (a-Si) by a pulsed rapid thermal annealing (RTA). The Ni atoms in concentration of 4.6×1012/cm2 on the a-Si surface were heated at 700 °C in the RTA system for 10 s, ten times with 60 s intervals between the heat pulses. The Ni atoms on a-Si aggregate together, forming NiSi2 precipitates. The crystallization proceeds from the NiSi2 nuclei until the neighboring crystallites collide and forms distinct grain boundaries. It was found that 3.6×107 Ni atoms form a seed for metal induced crystallization and the grain size was 40 μm when the Ni density was 4.6×1012/cm2 on the a-Si. The grain size increases with decreasing metal density on a-Si. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The sliding wear behavior of the material of a steam generator in a nuclear power station (Inconel 600) was investigated at room temperature. Effects of the wear parameters such as material combination, sliding distance and contact stress were examined with various mating materials including 304 austenitic stainless steel, Inconel 600 and Al–Cu alloy 2011. In the prediction of the wear volume by Archard’s wear equation, the standard error range was calculated to be ±4.04×10−9 m3 and the reliability to be 71.9% for the combination of Inconel 600 and 304 stainless steel. The error range was considered to be relatively broad because the wear coefficient in Archard’s equation was assumed to be a constant, regardless of the changes in the mechanical properties during the wear. In the present study, the sliding wear behavior turned out to be influenced by the material combination; the wear volume of 304 stainless steel did not linearly increase with the sliding distance, while that of other material combinations exhibited linear increases. Based on the experimental results, the wear coefficient was modified as a function of the sliding distance. The calculation with the modified wear equation showed that the error range narrowed down to ±2.60×10−9 m3 and the reliability increased to 75.3%, compared to Archard’s original equation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We studied the growth of super-grain polycrystalline silicon by silicide mediated crystallization of amorphous silicon (a-Si) using a pulsed rapid thermal annealing (RTA). The Ni particles of 4.6×1012 cm−2 were scattered onto the a-Si and then heated at various temperatures in the RTA system. The grain size was found to decrease from 41 to 26 μm with increasing crystallization temperature from 650 to 750 °C. The formation of nuclei and the grain growth rate from the nuclei have been investigated as a function of temperature. The density of NiSi2 nuclei increases from 9.47×104 to 1.89×105 cm−2 as crystallization temperature increases from 650 to 750 °C. The grain growth velocity from the nuclei was found to be 8.6×10−5 cm s−1 at 750 °C. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Cell-surface display allows peptides and proteins to be displayed on the surface of microbial cells by fusing them with the anchoring motifs. The protein to be displayed – the passenger protein – can be fused to an anchoring motif – the carrier protein – by N-terminal fusion, C-terminal fusion or sandwich fusion. The characteristics of carrier protein, passenger protein and host cell, and fusion method all affect the efficiency of surface display of proteins. Microbial cell-surface display has many potential applications, including live vaccine development, peptide library screening, bioconversion using whole cell biocatalyst and bioadsorption. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The ability to modulate optical and electrical properties of two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors has sparked considerable interest in transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). Herein, we introduce a facile strategy for modulating optoelectronic properties of monolayer MoSe2 with external light. Photochromic diarylethene (DAE) molecules formed a 2-nm-thick uniform layer on MoSe2, switching between its closed- and open-form isomers under UV and visible irradiation, respectively. We have discovered that the closed DAE conformation under UV has its lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy level lower than the conduction band minimum of MoSe2, which facilitates photoinduced charge separation at the hybrid interface and quenches photoluminescence (PL) from monolayer flakes. In contrast, open isomers under visible light prevent photoexcited electron transfer from MoSe2 to DAE, thus retaining PL emission properties. Alternating UV and visible light repeatedly show a dynamic modulation of optoelectronic signatures of MoSe2. Conductive atomic force microscopy and Kelvin probe force microscopy also reveal an increase in conductivity and work function of MoSe2/DAE with photoswitched closed-form DAE. These results may open new opportunities for designing new phototransistors and other 2D optoelectronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optical transition energies (Eii) of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) are influenced by the local environment created by solvents and adsorbed molecules. Analysis of SWCNT photoluminescence (PL) energies in various dielectric media is used to elucidate a semiempirical scaling relation for Eii shifts and nanotube structural properties from a classical solvatochromic formalism. The SWCNT Kataura plot is corrected for a dielectric constant of unity and used in conjunction with the scaling to accurately describe PL energy shifts in a broad range of dielectric media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the levitation mechanism of a maglev planar transportation vehicle. Levitation force is generated using magnetic wheels and nonmagnetic conductor. The combination of the linear induction motor mechanism enables the vehicle to do planar motion. The effects of the major design parameters are estimated through the analysis and experiments. Parametric design to get required performance of the levitation mechanism is achieved using those design parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study which focused on the fabrication of an off-state leakage thin-film transistor using a chlorine incorporated amorphous silicon stacked active layer. Experimental details; Results and discussion; Conclusions.

We have studied the fabrication of low off-state leakage current amorphous silicon thin-film transistor (TFT) using Cl incorporated amorphous silicon [a-Si:H(:Cl)] as an active layer. The room temperature conductivity and conductivity activation energy of a-Si:H(:Cl) deposited by adding 10% SiH2Cl2 into silane plasma are much less than those of undoped hydrogenated amorphous silicon because the a-Si:H(:Cl) shows a p-type conduction. The off-state leakage currents of the a-Si:H(:Cl) TFT under light illumination are much less than that of conventional a-Si:H TFT without degrading the field effect mobility because the photoconductivity of a-Si:H(:Cl) is much less than that of a-Si:H. © 1996 American Institute of Physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Architectured materials exhibit negative Poisson's ratios and enhanced mechanical properties compared with regular materials. Their auxetic behaviors emerge from periodic cellular structures regardless of the materials used. The majority of such metamaterials are constructed by top‐down approaches and macroscopic with unit cells of microns or larger. There are also molecular auxetics including natural crystals which are not designable. There is a gap from few nanometers to microns, which may be filled by biomolecular self‐assembly. Herein, we demonstrate two‐dimensional auxetic nanostructures using DNA origami. Structural reconfigurations are performed by two‐step DNA reactions and complemented by mechanical deformation studies using molecular dynamics simulations. We find that the auxetic behaviors are mostly defined by geometrical designs, yet the properties of the materials also play an important role. From elasticity theory, we introduce design principles for auxetic DNA metamaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Architectured materials exhibit negative Poisson's ratios and enhanced mechanical properties compared with regular materials. Their auxetic behaviors emerge from periodic cellular structures regardless of the materials used. The majority of such metamaterials are constructed by top‐down approaches and macroscopic with unit cells of microns or larger. There are also molecular auxetics including natural crystals which are not designable. There is a gap from few nanometers to microns, which may be filled by biomolecular self‐assembly. Herein, we demonstrate two‐dimensional auxetic nanostructures using DNA origami. Structural reconfigurations are performed by two‐step DNA reactions and complemented by mechanical deformation studies using molecular dynamics simulations. We find that the auxetic behaviors are mostly defined by geometrical designs, yet the properties of the materials also play an important role. From elasticity theory, we introduce design principles for auxetic DNA metamaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Step length asymmetry is a characteristic feature of gait in post-stroke patients. A novel anterioposterior weight-shift training method with visual biofeedback (AP training) was developed to improve the forward progression of the trunk. This study aimed to investigate the effect of AP training on gait asymmetries, patterns, and gait-related function in subacute stroke patients. Forty-six subacute stroke patients were randomly assigned to the AP training group or the control group. The AP training group received conventional gait training and AP training five times per week for 4 weeks. The control group received the same intensity of conventional gait training with patient education for self-anterior weight shifting. Plantar pressure analysis, gait analysis, energy consumption, and gait-related behavioral parameters were assessed before and after training. The AP training group showed significant improvement in step length asymmetry, forefoot contact area and pressure, Berg balance scale score, and Fugl-Meyer assessment scale of lower extremity score compared to the control group (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant between-group difference with respect to energy cost and kinetic and kinematic gait parameters. In conclusion, AP training may help improve the asymmetric step length in stroke patients, and also improve anterior weight shifting, balance, and motor function in subacute stroke survivors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An algorithm that introduces a novel scheme for the combination of the two adaptation terms of the affine projection algorithm with different step sizes is proposed. The mixing parameter of the proposed algorithm is determined by minimising the mean‐square deviation. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm has a faster convergence rate and a smaller steady‐state error than other existing combination algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Structural DNA nanotechnology utilizes synthetic or biologic DNA as designer molecules for the self-assembly of artificial nanostructures. The field is founded upon the specific interactions between DNA molecules, known as Watson-Crick base pairing. After decades of active pursuit, DNA has demonstrated unprecedented versatility in constructing artificial nanostructures with significant complexity and programmability. The nanostructures could be either static, with well-controlled physicochemical properties, or dynamic, with the ability to reconfigure upon external stimuli. Researchers have devoted considerable effort to exploring the usability of DNA nanostructures in biomedical research. We review the basic design methods for fabricating both static and dynamic DNA nanostructures, along with their biomedical applications in fields such as biosensing, bioimaging, and drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The responses of DNA origami conformation to UV radiation of different wavelengths and doses are investigated. Short- and medium-wavelength UV light can cause photo-lesions in DNA origami. At moderate doses, the lesions do not cause any visible defects in the origami, nor do they significantly affect the hybridization capability. Instead, they help relieve the internal stress in the origami structure and restore it to the designed conformation. At high doses, staple dissociation increases which causes structural disintegration. Long-wavelength UV does not show any effect on origami conformation by itself. We show that this UV range can be used in conjunction with photoactive molecules for photo-reconfiguration, while avoiding any damage to the DNA structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amylose microparticles can be produced by self-assembly of amylose molecules through an amylosucrase-mediated synthesis. Here we investigated the role of short-chain fatty acids in the formation of amylose microparticles and the fate of these fatty acids at the end of the reaction. The rate of self-assembly and production yields of amylose microparticles were significantly enhanced in the presence of fatty acids. The effect was dependent on the length of the fatty acid carbon tail; butanoic acid (C4) was the most effective, followed by hexanoic acid (C6) and octanoic acid (C8). The amylose microparticles were investigated by carrying out SEM, XRD, Raman, NMR, FT-IR and DSC analysis. The size, morphology and crystal structure of the resulting amylose microparticles were comparable with those of amylose microparticles produced without fatty acids. The results indicated the carboxyl group of the fatty acid to be responsible for promoting the self-assembly of amylose chains to form microparticles. The fatty acids were eventually removed from the microstructure through the tight association of amylose double helices to form the amylose microparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transradial approach is increasingly used for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and we therefore aimed to compare the clinical outcomes after transradial intervention (TRI) and transfemoral intervention (TFI) in all patients undergoing PCI. Among 6,973 patients enrolled in a nationwide, prospective, multicenter registry (February 2013 to September 2013), 1,860 underwent TRI (n = 1,445, 77.7%) and TFI (n = 415, 22.3%). Bleeding and major adverse cardiac events (MACE; death, myocardial infarction, revascularization, or stent thrombosis) were compared. Bleeding occurred in 42 patients (2.3%) and was significantly less likely in the TRI versus TFI group (overall cohort: 1.5% vs 4.8%, p = 0.001; propensity score-matched: n = 728, 2.7% vs 5.2%, p = 0.048). Multivariate regression revealed that TRI was negatively associated with bleeding (odds ratio 0.42, 95% CI 0.21 to 0.83, p = 0.013). MACE occurred in 152 patients (8.2%). Kaplan-Meier estimates showed higher MACE-free survival rates in the TRI versus TFI group (overall cohort: 93.3% vs 86.7%, log-rank p = 0.026; propensity score-matched: 91.8% vs 86.5%, log-rank p = 0.04). Cox proportional analysis demonstrated that TRI independently predicted improved MACE (hazard ratio 0.64, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.91, p = 0.024). In conclusion, TRI is associated with reduced bleeding rates and better clinical outcomes than TFI in all patients undergoing PCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Affine projection sign algorithm (APSA) is a useful adaptive filter for a highly correlated input signal in the presence of impulsive noise. In this study, a novel variable step-size APSA is proposed using selective input vectors to achieve both fast convergence rate and low steady-state mean-square deviation (MSD) with low computational cost. The selective input vectors and step size are chosen so as to maximize the theoretical MSD difference derived using Price׳s theorem. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm has the fastest convergence rate and lowest steady-state MSD when compared with recent variable step-size APSAs. Moreover, it effectively reduces computational cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease characterized by persistent inflammation and joint destruction. A lipid mediator (LM, namely, 17S-monohydroxy docosahexaenoic acid, resolvin D5, and protectin DX in a ratio of 3:47:50) produced by soybean lipoxygenase from DHA, exhibits anti-inflammatory activity. In this study, we determined the effect of LM on collagen antibody-induced arthritis (CAIA) in mice and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclast formation in RAW264.7 cells. LM effectively downregulated the expression of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) and cathepsin K, inhibited osteoclast formation, and suppressed the NF-κB signaling pathway in vitro. In vivo , LM at 10 μg/kg/day significantly decreased paw swelling and inhibited progression of arthritis in CAIA mice. Moreover, proinflammatory cytokine (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, IL-17, and interferon-γ) levels in serum were decreased, whereas IL-10 levels were increased following LM treatment. Furthermore, LM alleviated joint inflammation, cartilage erosion, and bone destruction in the ankles, which may be related to matrix metalloproteinase and Janus kinase (JAK)–signal transducer and activators of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway. Our findings suggest that LM attenuates arthritis severity, restores serum imbalances, and modifies joint damage. Thus, LM represents a promising therapy for relieving RA symptoms. [Display omitted] • Lipid mediators (LM) produced by soybean lipoxygenase from DHA attenuated RANKL- induced osteoclast formation. • LM improved RA symptoms and inflammatory situation in CAIA mice. • LM alleviated cartilage degradation and bone erosion in CAIA mice. • LM regulated the synovial inflammation by inhibiting the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supramolecular polymers have unique characteristics such as self‐healing and easy processing. However, the scope of their structures is limited to mostly either flexible, random coils or rigid, straight chains. By broadening this scope, novel properties, functions, and applications can be explored. Here, DNA is used as a model system to engineer innovative, nanoscaled morphologies of supramolecular polymers. Each polymer chain consists of multiple copies of the same short (38–46 nucleotides long) DNA strand. The component DNA strands first dimerize into homo‐dimers, which then further assemble into long polymer chains. By subtly tuning the design, a range of polymer morphologies are obtained; including straight chains, spirals, and closed rings with finite sizes. Such structures are confirmed by AFM imaging and predicted by molecular coarse simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Gram-stain-negative, strictly aerobic, non-flagellated, rod-shaped bacterium, designated GSB7T, was isolated from seawater collected at the Yellow Sea coast of South Korea. Catalase and oxidase activities were positive. Growth occurred at pH 6.0–9.0 (optimum pH 7.0), 10–40 °C (optimum 30 °C) and with 0–8% NaCl (optimum 1–2%). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain GSB7T belonged to the genus Marivivens, showing the sequence similarities of 96.3, 96.1, and 96.0% with Marivivens niveibacter HSLHS2T, Limimaricola hongkongensis DSM17492T, and Marivivens donghaensis AM-4T, respectively. The respiratory quinone was ubiquinone-10 and the major fatty acids were summed feature 8 (C18:1ω7c and/or C18:1ω6c), C18:1ω7c 11-methyl, C16:0 and C10:0 3-OH. The polar lipids comprised phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, one unidentified aminolipid, and five unidentified lipids. The DNA G + C content calculated from the whole-genome sequence was 60.6 mol%. On the basis of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and genotypic characteristics presented in this study, strain GSB7T is suggested to represent a novel species of the genus Marivivens, for which the name Marivivens aquimaris sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is GSB7T (= KCTC 82026T = JCM 34042T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Lipid mediators (LM) produced by soybean lipoxygenase from DHA attenuated the inflammation in TNF-α/IFN-γ-stimulated HaCaT cells. • LM improved AD symptoms and inflammatory situation in DNCB-induced mice. • LM modulated gut microbiota diversity, and restored the microbial composition in DNCB-induced mice. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily results from immune dysregulation. We determined the potential therapeutic benefits of lipid mediators (LM, 17S-monohydroxy DHA, resolvin D5, and protectin DX in a ratio of 3:47:50) produced by soybean lipoxygenase from DHA. The underlying molecular mechanisms involved in TNF-α/IFN-γ-stimulated HaCaT cells as well as its effect in an AD mouse model induced by DNCB in BALB/c mice were examined. The results indicated that LM effectively attenuates the production of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IL-1β) and chemokines (IL-8 and MCP-1) by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway in TNF-α/IFN-γ-stimulated HaCaT cells. The oral administration of LM at 5 or 10 μg/kg/day significantly reduced skin lesions, epidermal thickness, and mast cell infiltration in AD mice. Furthermore, LM reduced the production of IgE and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) in the serum, modulated gut microbiota diversity, and restored the microbial composition. Overall, our findings suggest that LM represents a potential therapeutic agent for improving AD symptoms through its ability to suppress inflammatory cytokines and alter the composition of gut microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The fermentative production of platform chemicals in biorefineries is a sustainable alternative to current petroleum‐refining processes. Industrial microorganisms, such as Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Corynebacterium glutamicum, have been engineered as microbial cell factories that are able to utilize biomass for the production of value‐added platform chemicals and polymers. Compared to E. coli and S. cerevisiae, C. glutamicum displays weak carbon catabolite repression and can co‐utilize mixed sugars as carbon sources, without any significant growth retardation. Pathways for the utilization of alternative carbon sources, such as d‐xylose and l‐arabinose from lignocellulosic biomass, lactose and galactose from whey, glycerol from biodiesel, and methanol from natural gas refineries, have been evaluated for chemical production. However, the application of C. glutamicum in biorefineries is limited because it does not secrete hydrolases for the efficient utilization of cellulose, xylan, and starch from lignocellulosic and starch biomass. To solve the limitation, C. glutamicum has been engineered for the consolidated bioprocessing of biomass by the heterologous expression of amylolytic and cellulolytic enzymes. Recently, C. glutamicum has been extensively engineered for polyamide monomer production owing to its ability to produce l‐lysine and l‐glutamate. This review summarizes recent advances in the development of C. glutamicum strains that can utilize renewable biomass resources for the production of industrially important chemicals. It highlights recent progress in metabolic engineering for the production of polyamide monomers. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-based production of industrially important chemicals provides an eco-friendly alternative to current petrochemical-based processes. Because of the limited supply of fossil fuel reserves, various technologies utilizing microbial host strains for the sustainable production of platform chemicals from renewable biomass have been developed. Corynebacterium glutamicum is a non-pathogenic industrial microbial species traditionally used for l-glutamate and l-lysine production. It is a promising species for industrial production of bio-based chemicals because of its flexible metabolism that allows the utilization of a broad spectrum of carbon sources and the production of various amino acids. Classical breeding, systems, synthetic biology, and metabolic engineering approaches have been used to improve its applications, ranging from traditional amino-acid production to modern biorefinery systems for production of value-added platform chemicals. This review describes recent advances in the development of genetic engineering tools and techniques for the establishment and optimization of metabolic pathways for bio-based production of major C2-C6 platform chemicals using recombinant C. glutamicum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We compared outcomes between biodegradable polymer biolimus-eluting stent (BP-BES) and new-generation durable polymer drug-eluting stent (DP-DES) implantations in patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI). Among 13472 patients with acute MI in a nationwide registry, 557 (64.8%) were in the BP-BES and 303 (35.2%) in the new-generation DP-DES group following coronary reperfusion. The occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE; death, MI, revascularization) and stent thrombosis was compared. Major adverse cardiac events occurred in 53 (6.2%) patients and showed similar rates between the BP-BES and new-generation DP-DES groups (all: 6.6% vs 5.9%, P = .652; propensity score [PS] matched: n = 380, 6.3% vs 5.3%, P = .623). Stent thrombosis did not differ between groups (all: 0.3% vs 0.4%, P = .892; PS matched: 0.5% vs 0.5%, P = 1.000). Major adverse cardiac event-free survival was comparable between groups (all: 93.4% vs 94.1%, log-rank P = .357; PS matched: 93.7% vs 94.7%, log-rank P = .445). Biodegradable polymer biolimus-eluting stent was not associated with MACE (all: hazard ratio [HR], 1.67; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.75-3.74; P = 0.212; PS matched: HR, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.40-2.75; P = .915). In conclusion, in patients with acute MI, BP-BES was equivalent to the new-generation DP-DES in terms of outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Self-assembly kinetics of SCGA were temperature-dependent. • Yield and particle size were decreased with increasing temperature. • Fastest formation and crystallization rates were observed at 4 and 20℃, respectively. • Nucleation enabled the formation of SCGA at 60℃. • Temperature and nucleation changed the physicochemical properties of SCGA. Self-assembly (formation and crystallization) kinetics of short-chain glucan aggregates (SCGAs) prepared at isothermal conditions (4, 20, 40, and 60℃) with or without nucleation (4℃, 1 h) were investigated. The fastest formation and crystallization rates of SCGA were observed when short-chain glucan was stored at 4℃ and 20℃, respectively. SCGA was not formed at 60℃. However, nucleation resulted in SCGA forming-ability at 60℃. Moreover, nucleation increased the yield in all temperature conditions. SCGA with nucleation decreased the crystal melting transition temperature range. All SCGAs had nanosized particles (<500 nm) with B-type crystal patterns regardless of temperature and nucleation. Consequently, self-assembly temperature and presence of nucleation step could change the physicochemical characteristics of SCGA, and manipulation of the nucleation step is expected to be an effective method to increase the yield of SCGA and produce SCGA at high temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We compared the longitudinal course of post-bronchodilator Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (pFEV1) over a 10-year period in subjects with spontaneous healed pulmonary tuberculosis (SHPTB) with that in normal subjects. Methods: We prospectively investigated 339 subjects with SHPTB and 3211 normal subjects. pFEV1 values measured biannually over 10 years were analyzed using mixed effects model. Results: At baseline, there were no differences in gender, smoking amount, and mean height, except mean age (50.0 ± 8.1 VS. 48.1 ± 7.3, P< 0.001) between the SHPTB and normal group. 52% of the 339 participants with SHPTB and 56% of the 3211 normal participants participated till the end of study. According to the final model, the SHPTB group showed significantly larger decrease in the average pFEV1 over the time than the normal group (P< 0.001) adjusted for gender, age, height, smoking pack years, and time effects. Especially, the interaction effect between time and group was statistically significant (P = 0.036). Conclusion: The average lung function in terms of pFEV1 decreases faster in subjects with SHPTB than in normal individuals over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this work has been to synthesize and investigate Pd(TC3), an intercalating porphyrin that has conformable substituents capable of groove binding to B-form DNA. (TC3 denotes the doubly deprotonated form of 5,10,15,20-tetra[3-(3′-methylimidazolium-1′-yl)prop-1-yl]porphyrin.) Palladium(ii) is an apt choice for the central metal ion because it remains strictly four-coordinate and provides for a luminescent triplet excited state with a long lifetime. The DNA hosts are hairpin-forming sequences programmed to differ in base composition. Luminescence, absorbance, and circular dichroism results are consistent with the idea that congruent structural reorganization takes place at the host and ligand during uptake. Photoexcitation of DNA-bound Pd(TC3) generates a comparatively modest steady state concentration of singlet oxygen, due to a relatively slow reaction with molecular oxygen in solution. The sheer size of the substituent groups disfavors quenching, but groove-binding interactions compound the problem by inhibiting mobility. The results show how ligand design affects adduct structure as well as function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cordyceps militaris is an edible and potentially medicinal mushroom. It contains various biologically active compounds, including exopolysaccharides. In this study, the abilities as antioxidants and prebiotics of exopolysaccharides of C. militaris (CMP) and its low-molecular-weight polysaccharide of CMP (LCMP) obtained using glycoside hydrolase digestion were investigated. CMP and LCMP had obvious DPPH, ABTS, and hydroxyl radical scavenging activities of 13.71%, 38.33% and 23.94%, and 30.36%, 69.32% and 43.82%, respectively, at a concentration of 1 mg/mL. In the gut microbiota consortium, treatment with CMP or LCMP increased Bacteroidetes growth and decreased Firmicutes / Bacteroidetes ratios, compared with the negative or glucose-treated controls. Based on changes in the consortium, the media treated with CMP and LCMP had increases in acetic, lactic, and 2-hydroxyisocaproic acid metabolites. In particular, LCMP-treated media had increases in production of two phenolic acids, benzoic acid and hydrocinnamic acid. Prebiotic activity tests found that CMP and LCMP had growth-promoting activities (mean values 0.34–0.77 and 0.46–0.95, respectively) similar to those of inulin (mean values 0.43–1.11). These results indicated that LCMP was a beneficial antioxidant and an excellent prebiotic that enhanced proliferation of probiotics and phenolic acid abundance. This may provide a basis for the understanding of the effects of prebiotics on health. Cordyceps militaris , Exopolysaccharides (EPS), Prebiotics, Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), Phenolic acids. • Enzymatic digestion of EPS can increased antioxidant and prebiotic activities. • LCMP could beneficially regulate F/B ratios in the gut microbial consortium. • SCFAs and phenolic acids were produced by gut microbiota from treatment of LCMP. • LCMP can prevent a gut dysbiosis and maintain the abundance of Lactobacillus spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is difficult to eradicate as it leads to chronic inflammation in the digestive tract due to immune system malfunction. The present study demonstrated the protective effect of 7S,15R-dihydroxy-16S,17S-epoxy-docosapentaenoic acid (diHEP-DPA), which had been previously synthesized, on a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced BALB/c mouse model of UC. UC was induced with 4% DSS drinking water for 7 days. Initially, the anti-inflammatory effect of diHEP-DPA was confirmed by demonstrating that lipopolysaccharide-stimulated THP1 cells treated with diHEP-DPA decreased IL-6, TNF-α and nitrite levels by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and Griess reagent kit. The results indicated that the administration of diHEP-DPA at 20 µg/kg significantly reduced the severity of colitis, as determined by hematoxylin and eosin staining. The levels of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β in the colon tissue and serum were significantly reduced in the diHEP-DPA + DSS-treated group compared with in the control group, as determined by FACS and ELISA kit. It was also observed that diHEP-DPA decreased myeloperoxidase (MPO) and nitrite levels in the colon tissues of diHEP-DPA + DSS-treated mice, as indicated using commercial MPO and nitric oxide kits. The diHEP-DPA+DSS-treated mice also exhibited decreased expression levels of phosporylated (p)-inhibitor κB protein, p-p65 and inducible nitric oxide synthase in the colon tissue by inhibiting inflammation, which were measured by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and weatern blot analysis. Overall, the present study demonstrated the protective effect of diHEP-DPA against a severe colitis condition in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here we design a DNA origami-based site-specific molecular capture and release platform operated by a DNAzyme-mediated logic gate process. We show the programmability and versatility of this platform with small molecules, proteins, and nanoparticles, which may also be controlled by external light signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The transradial (TR) approach for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is challenging and associated with failure in elderly patients. We compared the TR and transfemoral (TF) approaches in patients > 80 years with acute myocardial infarction (MI) undergoing PCI. Methods A total of 1945 (7.2%) octogenarians were enrolled from among 27,129 patients in the Korea Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry. The TR group (n = 336, 17.3%) was compared with the TF group (n = 1609, 82.7%) in the overall and propensity-matched cohorts with respect to procedural success, complications, in-hospital mortality, and one-year mortality and total major adverse cardiac event (MACE; death, MI, and revascularization) rate. Results In the overall cohort, the TR group had lower incidence of Killip class III or IV compared to the TF group. The disease extent and lesion severity were similar between groups, as was the procedural success rate (97.7% vs. 98.3%); however, in-hospital complications were significantly lower in the TR group (8.1% vs. 20.3%). In-hospital mortality was significantly lower in the TR group than the TF group (3.4% vs. 11.4%), as were the one-year mortality and total MACE (9.8% vs. 18.4% and 13% vs. 21.9%, respectively). These outcomes were consistent in the propensity-matched cohort. The TR approach was found to be a significant predictor of low in-hospital mortality (OR 0.355, 95% CI 0.139–0.907), but not of one-year mortality (OR 0.644, 95% CI 0.334–1.240). Conclusions In octogenarians with acute MI undergoing PCI, the TR approach was more effective than the TF approach as it had lower complication rate and better clinical outcomes with comparable procedural success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DNA based synthetic molecular walkers are reminiscent of biological protein motors. They are powered by hybridization with fuel strands, environment induced conformational transitions, and covalent chemistry of oligonucleotides. Recent developments in experimental techniques enable direct observation of individual walkers with high temporal and spatial resolution. The functionalities of state-of-the-art DNA walker systems can thus be analyzed for various applications. Herein we review recent progress on DNA walker principles and characterization methods, and evaluate various aspects of their functions for future applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies reveal that it is possible to design a palladium(II)-containing porphyrin to bind exclusively by intercalation to double-stranded DNA while simultaneously enhancing the ability to sensitize the formation of singlet oxygen. The comparisons revolve around the cations [5,10,15,20-tetra(N-methylpyridinium- 4-yl)porphyrin]palladium(II), or Pd(T4), and [5,15-di(N-methylpyridinium-4-yl)porphyrin]palladium(II), or Pd(tD4), in conjunction with A=T and G=C rich DNA binding sequences. Methods employed include X-ray crystallography of the ligands as well as absorbance, circular dichroisrn, and emission spectroscopies of the adducts and the emission from singlet oxygen in solution. In the case of the bulky Pd(T4) system, external binding is almost as effective as intercalation in slowing the rate of oxygen-induced quenching of the porphyrin's triplet excited state. The fractional efficiency of quenching by oxygen nevertheless approaches 1 for intercalated forms of Pd(tD4), because of intrinsically long triplet lifetimes. The intensity of the sensitized, steady-state emission signal varies with the system and depends on many factors, but the Pd(tD4) system is impressive. Intercalated forms of Pd(tD4) produce higher sensitized emission yields than Pd(T4) is capable of in the absence of DNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]