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Public libraries with multilingual communities should provide adequate access to multilingual resources to meet the needs of community members. Few previous studies have addressed online access to multilingual collections of public libraries that serve multilingual communities. This article highlights challenges in supporting multilingual users on public library websites that have multilingual users by asking what factors are involved, how the problems will eventually be solved, and what features will be needed in website design and indexing to enhance multilingual support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Design optimization of high-dimensional, computationally-expensive, and black-box problems has many challenges to resolve. Owing to the enormously high computational costs, obtaining the optimum design that has the minimum or maximum objective function value while satisfying constraints requires elaborated approaches. Instead, this paper suggests that if a design that satisfies a design target demanded by designers or decision makers can be obtained with low computational costs, the design could be quite useful for practitioners. To minimize the computational costs while obtaining the design, we aim to select the minimum number of significant input variables of a high-dimensional problem. Accordingly, a new design optimization problem for input variable selection, which is named design-target-based optimization (DTBO), is proposed to achieve it. The input variable selection is performed based on the selection measure that is calculated by the significance of input variables and the weights of each response. In the viewpoint of obtaining the design by minimally selecting the significant input variables, it is crucial to allocate weights appropriately by considering the status of constraints whether they are violated, active or inactive. Therefore, a penalty-Lagrange multiplier (PLM) method is also proposed for the DTBO to allocate weights adaptively. The performance and effectiveness of the DTBO for solving high-dimensional design problems are demonstrated by examining two numerical examples and the design of the body-in-white of a vehicle. We anticipate that the DTBO with the PLM method can obtain a practical design satisfying the design target efficiently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive fibrosing interstitial pneumonia of unknown etiology. In several randomized clinical trials, and in the clinical practice, pirfenidone is used to effectively and safely treat IPF. However, sometimes it is difficult to use the dose of pirfenidone used in clinical trials. This study evaluated the effects of low-dose pirfenidone on IPF disease progression and patient survival in the real-world. Methods: This retrospective, observational study enrolled IPF patients seen at the time of diagnosis at a single center from 2008 to 2018. Longitudinal clinical and laboratory data were prospectively collected. We compared the clinical characteristics, survival, and pulmonary function decline between patients treated and untreated with various dose of pirfenidone. Results: Of 295 IPF patients, 100 (33.9%) received pirfenidone and 195 (66.1%) received no antifibrotic agent. Of the 100 patients who received pirfenidone, 24 (24%), 50 (50%), and 26 (26%), respectively, were given 600, 1200, and 1800 mg pirfenidone daily. The mean survival time was 57.03 ± 3.90 months in the no-antifibrotic drug group and 73.26 ± 7.87 months in the pirfenidone-treated group (p = 0.027). In the unadjusted analysis, the survival of the patients given pirfenidone was significantly better (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.69, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.48–0.99, p = 0.04). After adjusting for age, gender, body mass index, and the GAP score [based on gender (G), age (A), and two physiological lung parameters (P)], survival remained better in the patients given pirfenidone (HR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.37–0.85, p = 0.006). In terms of pulmonary function, the decreases in forced vital capacity (%), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (%) and the diffusing capacity of lung for carbon monoxide (%) were significantly smaller (p = 0.000, p = 0.001, and p = 0.007, respectively) in patients given pirfenidone. Conclusions: Low-dose pirfenidone provided beneficial effects on survival and pulmonary function decline in the real-world practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A number of studies employing different in vitro assays have demonstrated the estrogen-like activity of natural substances. All assays have their advantages and limitations as a screening tool. No single in vitro assay is considered ideal for predicting estrogenic action in a complex in vivo system. To assess agonistic activities of several medicinal herbs on the estrogen receptor (ER) and their metabolic alteration, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Performance-Based Test Guideline No. 455 in vitro assay was performed in this study using recombinant VM7Luc4E2 cells in combination with rat liver S9 fractions. Ethanol extracts of medicinal herbs showed binding affinities for ER-α and ER-β at different levels. However, luciferase reporter assay using VM7Luc4E2 cells revealed that only two test extracts [Pueraria lobata root extract (PLE); Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract (GGE)] exhibited ER transcriptional activity when their activities were compared with the response by 17β-estradiol. Importantly, incubation of PLE or GGE with rat liver S9 fractions increased their ER transcriptional activities, in particular when phase I metabolic enzymes were activated. Puerarin and glabridin were the most abundant isoflavones found in PLE and GGE, respectively. The present results demonstrate that PLE and GGE possess potential as ER agonists with their metabolic activation. This study also suggests that the application of OECD in vitro assay with rat liver S9 fraction is an efficient screening tool to evaluate estrogenic activities of natural substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CTCs were only found in 65.3% of cancer patients, exosomes were elevated in both benign and malignant tumor patients, and cfDNA levels of early-stage patients were similar to those of the non-cancer cohorts. Tri-modal liquid biopsy: Combinational analysis of circulating tumor cells, exosomes, and cell-free DNA using machine learning algorithm Analysis of tumor biomarkers in circulation, commonly known as liquid biopsy, has been highlighted as an effective real-time monitoring technique for the surveillance of therapeutic responses and tumor progression.1-3 However, existing liquid biopsy assays that utilize a single tumor biomarker lack the sensitivity and specificity required to obtain clinically reliable information.4 In this study, we established a multimodal liquid biopsy (MMLB) system that integrates the expression profiles of the three different tumor biomarkers, circulating tumor cells (CTCs), exosomes, and cell-free DNA (cfDNA), using a machine learning algorithm (Figure 1). GLO:F2H7/01aug21:ctm2499-fig-0001.jpg PHOTO (COLOR): 1 Schematic illustration of the machine learning-based multimodal analysis of the triple tumor biomarkers - CTCs, exosomes, and cfDNA: (A) A graphical abstract of the multimodal liquid biopsy analysis. [Extracted from the article]

Although circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is a promising biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of various tumors, clinical correlation of cfDNA with gastric cancer has not been fully understood. To address this, we developed a highly sensitive cfDNA capture system by integrating polydopamine (PDA) and silica. PDA-silica hybrids incorporated different molecular interactions to a single system, enhancing cfDNA capture by 1.34-fold compared to the conventional silica-based approach (p = 0.001), which was confirmed using cell culture supernatants. A clinical study using human plasma samples revealed that the diagnostic accuracy of the new system to be superior than the commercially available cfDNA kit, as well as other serum antigen tests. Among the cancer patients, plasma cfDNA levels exhibited a good correlation with the size of a tumor. cfDNA was also predicative of distant metastasis, as the median cfDNA levels of metastatic cancer patients were ~60-fold higher than those without metastasis (p = 0.008). Furthermore, high concordance between tissue biopsy and cfDNA genomic analysis was found, as HER2 expression in cfDNA demonstrated an area under ROC curve (AUC) of 0.976 (p <0.001) for detecting patients with HER2-positive tumors. The new system also revealed high prognostic capability of cfDNA, as the concentration of cfDNA was highly associated with the survival outcomes. Our novel technology demonstrates the potential to achieve efficient detection of cfDNA that may serve as a reliable biomarker for gastric tumor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Statistical model selection and evaluation methods like Akaike information criteria (AIC) and Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) have often established efficient output for reliability analysis with large sample size. Information criterion can provide better model selection and evaluation in small sample sizes setup by considering the well-known measure of bootstrap resampling. Our purpose is to utilize the capabilities of bootstrap resampling in information criterion to check for uncertainty arising from model selection as well as statistics of interest for small sample size using reliability analysis. In this study, therefore, a unique and efficient simulation scheme is proposed which contemplates the best model selection devised from efficient bootstrap simulation or variance reduced bootstrap information criterion to be combined with reliability analysis. It is beneficial to compute the spread of reliability values as against solitary fixed values with desirable statistics of interest for uncertainty analysis. The proposed simulation scheme is verified using a number of sample size focused response functions under repetitions-centred approach with AIC-based reliability analysis for comparison and MCS for accuracy. The results show that the proposed simulation scheme aids the statistics of interest by reducing the spread and hence the uncertainty in sample size-based reliability analysis when compared with conventional methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) considering vehicle performances becomes a core technology for autonomous vehicle to adjust the vehicle speed while maintaining a safe distance from preceding vehicles. Improvement of the vehicle performances has limitations by only designing ACC's control parameters or its strategies. Furthermore, uncertainties of vehicle parameters and vehicle occupants can affect the vehicle performances considerably. Therefore, this paper studies the total design process of ACC system considering the control and the vehicle parameters simultaneously and reflecting the uncertainties. Three cases of deterministic design optimisation (DDO) are performed to show the effectiveness of considering the vehicle parameters. Additionally, one case of robust design optimisation (RDO) is performed to demonstrate the importance of considering the uncertainties. Conclusively, by performing the RDO, the vehicle performances are improved, and especially mean of fuel efficiency is increased and the standard deviation of the fuel efficiency is decreased. Moreover, enhancement and robustness of the product's performance are expected by implementing this design process to the development of control system with structural discipline at the concept design stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In recent years, circulating fluidized bed combustor (CFBC) has been regarded as a viable alternative to the conventional pulverized coal combustor (PCC) for utility-scale coal power generation owing to its superior technology for fuel flexibility and supercritical (SC)/ultra supercritical (USC) steam circuit adaptability. The objective of this study is to analyze the economic feasibility of a 600MWe USC CFB boiler, in which coal or a mixture of coal and biomass would be used as fuel. After the demonstration and commercialization of SC CFBC units had succeeded up to 600MWe, USC CFBCs have been widely developed throughout the world. Although high capital costs, high auxiliary power use, and technology maturity have hindered the adoption of USC CFBC for utility power generation, the demand of cleaner environments and energy conversion have driven communities to develop and adopt USC CFBC. Its economic feasibility was evaluated in terms of net present value (NPV), benefit/cost ratio (B/C ratio), and internal rate of return (IRR). In particular, the effect of coal tax and domestic biomass co-combustion on economic efficiency was analyzed. Highlights • The economic feasibility of 600MWe USC CFB power plant were investigated. • The economic efficiency of biomass co-combustion could be higher than that of coal combustion due to carbon trade exchange. • The 600MWe USC CFB power plant with biomass co-combustion could be feasible in spite of coal tax or carbon tax. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-k oxide materials for metal–oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistors and metal–oxide–semiconductor (MOS) structure on SiC have been explored to enhance SiC-based device performance. In our experiments, the MOS capacitors with a high-k barium titanate (BaTiO3) insulating layer were fabricated using the aerosol deposition (AD) method, and post-deposition annealed in O2 atmospheres. We examined the effects of post-deposition annealing on the BaTiO3 films and their impact on the surface and electrical characteristics of MOS capacitors. The crystallinity and surface morphologies of the BaTiO3 films were analyzed by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. We conducted the electrical analysis through current–voltage and capacitance–voltage (C–V) measurements. The post-deposition annealing process effectively reduced the gate leakage current of BaTiO3/4H-SiC and elevated the rectification ratio from 9.12 × 108 to 1.61 × 109. C–V characteristics were measured at 1 MHz to investigate the oxide defect charges inside the MOS capacitors. Near-interface trap density ( N it ) decreased from 9.10 × 1011 to 5.53 × 1011 cm−2 due to post-annealing, which diminished flat band voltage hysteresis. Fixed oxide charge density ( Q f ) also diminished from 4.00 × 1011 to 3.58 × 1011 cm−2, and the oxygen vacancies were compensated by the oxygen atoms introduced from the O2 during the post-deposition annealing. Our findings suggest that the post-deposition annealed process significantly influences surface and electrical properties during BaTiO3 thin film deposition using AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. This study compares thirty blind and visually impaired users' assessment of accessibility and usability of the two mobile platforms (mobile app and mobile website) of a digital library. Method. Triangulation of data collection was applied, including think-aloud protocols, transaction logs, post-platform questionnaires, post-platform interviews, and post-search interviews. Analysis. Two steps of analysis were used. First, quantitative analysis was applied to compare assessments of participants towards two mobile platforms' accessibility and usability. Second, qualitative data were analysed to identify types of design factors. Results. Mobile app performs significantly better in all accessibility and usability variables except accessing information/objects. Most importantly, nine types of design factors are revealed in relation to blind and visually impaired users' assessment of accessibility and usability for the two mobile platforms. Furthermore, the design problems of the mobile website are associated with a responsive design that adjusts the digital library interface to a mobile device, the complexity of digital library structure and formats, and a sight-centred design that excludes blind and visually impaired users' unique information-seeking behaviours. Conclusion. Mobile platforms of digital libraries, especially mobile websites, need to improve their designs. Design implications for mobile websites are further discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • A novel UV-curable patch system that can be used to repair the cracked surfaces of chemical reservoirs has been developed. • The patch consists of a pressure sensitive adhesive based on acrylated epoxidized soy bean oil (AESO). • The optimization of the curing behavior and adhesion performance of the UV-curable patch. • Investigation of the leak prevention performance of the UV-curable patch system for various toxic chemicals. • Demonstration of the applicability of the UV-curable patch system to a laboratory scale chemical reservoir. Abstract We present a novel UV-curable patch system that can be used to repair the cracked surfaces of chemical reservoirs. When a crack occurs in a chemical reservoir, the patch can be quickly attached to the damaged area, and then cured with a portable UV source in order to prevent the further spread of toxic chemicals. Crosslinked acrylated epoxidized soy bean oil (AESO) materials with various compositions and crosslinking densities were prepared by reacting AESO with the triethylenetetramine (TETA) crosslinker and tested as UV-curable pressure sensitive adhesives (PSAs). The optimum curing behavior and adhesion performance of the UV-curable patch system were found by using various analytical methods, namely oscillatory rheology, and peel, tack strength, and tensile tests. Finally, an optimized patch was applied to a laboratory scale chemical reservoir in order to assess its performance as a UV-curable crack repairing patch system for the prevention of chemical spills from cracked reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we introduce a novel dual stimuli responsive self-reporting thiol-epoxy thermoset (DSRTET) coatings which can detect both crack occurrence and pH variation. For crack detection, microcapsule containing tetraphenylethylene (TPE) which exhibits aggregation induced emission (AIE) effect was prepared via multi-step emulsion polymerization and dispersed in DSRTET coatings. For pH variation detection, commercial thymol blue as a pH indicator was added into the polymer matrix. The effect of microcapsule contents in DSRTET on their curing behavior, material properties, and crack sensitivity was characterized using an oscillatory rheology, rigid body pendulum test (RPT), nano-indentation test (NST), universal test machine (UTM) and scratch tester. It was revealed that crack sensitivity of DSRTET coatings was greatly influenced by material properties as well as microcapsule content. The color transition of DSRTET coatings in response to acid or base solution were quantitatively investigated using a multi-angle spectrophotometer after simple acid and base solution drop tests. The color of DSRTET coatings changed from a pale green to red for acidic solution and to blue for basic solution. Finally, The DSRTET used in this study was applied to laboratory scale chemical reservoirs in order to verify the potential as a dual stimuli response self-reporting coating which can detect both crack in coating material and chemical spill caused by the leakage or breakage of the reservoir part. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between tear film and meibomian gland parameters in patients with normal tension glaucoma (NTG), who underwent topical prostaglandin analog (PGA) monotherapy, and medication compliance. Methods: Ocular surface disease index (OSDI), Schirmer’s test, tear film break-up time (TBUT), keratoepitheliopathy (KEP) score with fluorescein, and meibomian gland parameters were assessed in 45 eyes of 45 patients with NTG (NTG group), who received topical PGA monotherapy for more than 1 year. The results were compared to those of 40 eyes of 40 normal subjects (control group). Medication compliance was assessed by an 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8). Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with medication compliance. Results: There was a significant difference in OSDI (P = 0.043), Schirmer’s test (P < 0.001), TBUT (P < 0.001), KEP score (P = 0.015) and all meibomian gland parameters (all P < 0.001) between two groups. When the NTG group was divided into compliant and non-compliant groups based on the scores of MMAS-8, 30 (75%) patients were classified into the compliant group. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the lid margin score (OR, 0.256; 95% CI, 0.072–0.908, P = 0.035), meibum score (OR, 0.144; 95% CI, 0.023–0.915, P = 0.04), and meibo score (OR, 0.344; 95% CI, 0.140–0.845, P = 0.02) were significant factors associated with compliance in patients with NTG. The meibomian gland parameters showed a negative correlation with medication compliance (all P < 0.005). Conclusions: Malfunction of the meibomian glands can be an important clinical finding associated with compliance of PGA monotherapy in patients with NTG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the clinical features of peripapillary microvasculature in myopic eyes and investigate the association between the superficial and deep peripapillary microvascular density and the myopic optic disc characteristics. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study included one hundred and fifty healthy myopic eyes with β-peripapillary atrophy (β-PPA). Ovality index, degree of optic disc rotation, and the area of β-PPA were measured. Superficial and deep peripapillary microvascular density was measured using optical coherence tomography angiography. Logistic regression analysis was performed to look for the factors associated with peripapillary microvascular reduction. Results: The mean superficial peripapillary microvascular density was 62.14 ± 5.47%; 33 (22.0%) participants were found to have decreased microvascular density. Increased axial length (p < 0.001) and decreased average peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (p = 0.027) were associated with the superficial peripapillary microvascular reduction. The mean deep peripapillary microvascular density was 73.76 ± 4.02%; 26 (17.33%) participants were found to have decreased microvascular density. Larger ovality index (p = 0.028) and more inferiorly rotated optic disc (p = 0.021) were associated with the deep peripapillary microvascular reduction. Conclusions: Axial elongation was significantly associated with microvascular reduction in the superficial peripapillary retina, whereas it was not associated with deep peripapillary microvascular reduction. The deep peripapillary microvascular density was independently associated with myopic optic disc characteristics such as ovality index and optic disc rotation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scratch-healing poly (methyl methacrylate)- co -[poly (methyl metharyleate)- graft -(oligo-caprolactone)] urethane networks containing a Diels Alder (DA) adduct unit (GCPNp-DAs) were successfully synthesized and shown to be capable of undergoing thermally reversible crosslinking. The synthesized polymers were coated on steel substrates to investigate the influence of their material properties on their scratch-healing performance. The reversible formation of crosslinked and de-crosslinked structures of the GCPNp-DAs at DA and retro-DA (rDA) reaction temperatures was demonstrated using FT-IR spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), oscillatory rheology, and nanoindentation. The scratch-resistance and healing performances of the GCPNp-DA coatings were evaluated quantitatively using a scratch test machine equipped with an optical microscope (OM) and an atomic force microscope (AFM). These results were found to be greatly influenced by the material properties of the coatings such as the elastic modulus, indentation hardness ( H IT ), crosslinking density ( v c ), and thermal transition temperature as well as by whether the deforming load that produced the scratches was increased in a progressive (gradual) or step-wise manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract With the goal of developing information retrieval (IR) systems, including digital libraries (DLs), that support universal access, the authors conducted two studies to identify the help-seeking situations that blind and visually impaired (BVI) users encountered in DLs. First, the authors quantitatively compared BVI users’ help-seeking situations when interacting with the DL's mobile website (M.Web) and the mobile app (M.App). Using multiple data collection methods, the mobile study identified six situations BVI users faced more frequently when using M.Web than M.App. Second, the findings of the mobile study were qualitatively compared with the situations that occurred in the desktop environment, highlighting eight unique situations. It is more difficult for BVI users to interact with DLs in the mobile environment because of the reduced size of the mobile interface, complex DL structures, dynamic elements, diverse formats, and sight-centered design. Specific design recommendations were offered to enhance DLs in the mobile environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The piezoelectric energy harvester, which accumulates electrical energy from ambient vibration energy has emerged as an alternative energy source because of its eco-friendly characteristics. Numerous studies have been conducted on the basis of experimental methods to increase the power generating capabilities of the piezoelectric energy harvester. Recently, research using optimization techniques to improve the performance has been carried out. However, since the previous studies did not consider various uncertainties that exist in the energy harvester, it is difficult to overcome the variance of performance caused by the uncertainties. In order to obtain the highest performance from the piezoelectric energy harvester and simultaneously retain robustness while installed under the road pavement, this paper presents robust design optimization of piezoelectric energy harvester which is insensitive to the uncertainties. Prior to performing the robust optimization, statistical information of the uncertainties that exist in the piezoelectric energy harvester was measured from 30 piezoelectric experiments. Then uncertainty quantification was performed using Akaike information criterion. A statistical model calibration method, used to improve the accuracy of the simulation model for robust optimization, was proposed and implemented, based on the uncertainty data. By using the calibrated simulation model, the piezoelectric energy harvester was evaluated and optimized to achieve maximum performance and robustness simultaneously. Finally, the robust optimum design solution for the piezoelectric energy harvester was verified, showing improved performance and reduced variance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reduce the operating temperature of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), we develop a highly conductive, bimodal-shape Nd 0.2 Ce 0.8 O 2−δ (NDC) materials at an intermediate temperature (IT) with excellent sinterability for the anode-supported cell design. The advanced bimodal NDC composite materials consist of powders synthesized by both the glycine-nitrate process and coprecipitation methods. The bimodal NDC electrolyte shows 2–3 fold higher conductivity than that of singly processed NDC electrolytes in the IT range. Further, this doubly processed highly conductive NDC material for the electrolyte and composite cathode significantly improves the performance of the anode-supported configuration of IT-SOFCs. This is due to the rapid transport of oxygen-ions in the electrolyte, small grain sizes of the bimodal cathode with a high porosity, and the improved interfacial property between the electrolyte and cathode, which results in decreased ohmic and polarization resistance of bimodal-based cells at 550–650 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is widely used for an early stage cancer therapy. However, the insufficient heat treatment enhances the metastatic potential in residual tumor, resulting in recurrence. Here, we present a microfluidic-based cell monitoring chip for detecting the changes in mechanical properties derived by epithelial-to-mesenchymal-like transition (EMT), due to the insufficient hyperthermia. The conventional molecular analysis requires complicated, time-consuming, and irreversible preprocesses. In comparison, the simple and rapid microfluidic-based analysis enables the phenotypical discrimination in a cellular level and permits the further analysis without any chemical damages on cells. We construct five different concentric pressure zones, each consists of four rings, having evenly spaced 10 μm-wide slots. After exposing cells under 37, 42, and 47 °C for an hour, we counted the cells trapped in each zone by inserting cell mixtures into the center of the device. As the exposed temperature increases, the total capture rate decreased by 38.6, 19.2, and 15.3%, showing higher deformability. Moreover, a large portion of heat-treated cells were captured on the low pressure zones, while untreated cells were uniformly distributed. The results suggest that the non-lethal hyperthermia enhances the cell deformability. Thereby, our chip facilitates simple and rapid validation for measuring the efficacy of RFA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The kinetics of the crosslinking reactions of model thiol-epoxy polymer networks (TEPNs) was visualized by tracking their pH variations. The color transitions of the TEPNs were monitored in real-time and the results were correlated with those of Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, isothermal differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and oscillational rheology. The influence of the glass transition temperatures ( T g ) of the TEPNs on the kinetics of the low temperature crosslinking reactions was investigated by employing various TEPNs with different crosslinker functionalities. The mechanical and chemical properties of the TEPNs were also determined and the trends in the data were related to the crosslinking densities ( v c ) calculated from dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerin is an inner nuclear membrane protein that is involved in maintaining the mechanical integrity of the nuclear membrane. Increasing evidence supports the involvement of emerin in the regulation of gene expression; however, its precise function remains to be elucidated. Here, we show that emerin downregulated genes downstream of Notch signaling, which are activated exclusively by the Notch intracellular domain (NICD). Deletion mutant experiments revealed that the transmembrane domain of emerin is important for the inhibition of Notch signaling. Emerin interacted directly and colocalized with the NICD at the nuclear membrane. Emerin knockdown induced the phosphorylation of ERK and AKT, increased endogenous Notch signaling, and inhibited hydrogen peroxide-induced apoptosis in HeLa cells. Notably, the downregulation of barrier-to-autointegration factor (BAF) or lamin A/C increased Notch signaling by inducing the release of emerin into the cytosol, implying that nuclear membrane-bound emerin acts as an endogenous inhibitor of Notch signaling. Taken together, our results indicate that emerin negatively regulates Notch signaling by promoting the retention of the NICD at the nuclear membrane. This mechanism could constitute a new therapeutic target for the treatment of emerin-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-ionic (H + /O 2− ) electrolytes are fabricated by compositing both proton conductor (BaZr 0.85 Y 0.15 O 3-δ , BZY) and oxygen-ion conductor (Nd 0.1 Ce 0.9 O 2−δ , NDC) for intermediate temperature-solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs). This hybrid electrolyte decreases the electronic loss of NDC under reducing atmospheres and improves the poor sinterability of BZY. The electronic conduction caused by the NDC reduction is effectively blocked by the BZY in the composite electrolyte, thus offering both advantages of BZY with its high OCV and more rigid electro-chemo-mechanical property. In addition, the composite BZY-NDC electrolyte also exhibits great chemical stability against exposure to steam and CO 2 . Furthermore, the compositing of BZY and NDC improves the proton conductivity of the electrolytes, and the conductivity of composite electrolyte is higher than that of single BZY at temperatures >600 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report solutions (durable material and degradation prevention method) to minimize the performance degradation of cell components occurring in the solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) operation. Reliability testing is carried out with the Ni Nd 0.1 Ce 0.9 O 2-δ (NDC) anode-supported intermediate temperature-SOFCs. For the cathode materials, single perovskite structured Ba 0.5 Sr 0.5 Co 0.8 Fe 0.2 O 3-δ (BSCF) and double perovskite structured NdBa 0.5 Sr 0.5 Co 1.5 Fe 0.5 O 5+δ (NBSCF) are prepared and evaluated under harsh SOFC operating conditions. The double perovskite NBSCF cathode shows excellent stability in harsh SOFC environments of high humidity and low flow rate of air. Furthermore, we propose the concurrent fuel and air starvation mode, in which the cell potential is temporarily reduced due to the formation of both fuel-starvation (in the anode) and air-depletion (in the cathode) concurrently under a constant load. This is carried out in order to minimize the performance decay of the stable NBSCF-cell through the periodic and extra reduction of a H 2 O (and a O 2 ) in the anode. The operating-induced degradation of SOFCs, which are ordinarily assumed to be unrecoverable, can be completely circumvented by the proposed periodical operation logic to prevent performance degradation (concurrent fuel-starvation and air-depletion mode). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Acquiring adequate tissue for immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis is important in the differential diagnosis of subepithelial tumors (SETs). In this study, we aimed to compare the diagnostic yield based on IHC analysis between endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) and EUS-guided fine needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) after on-site cytological evaluation for cellularity in gastric SETs. Methods In 22 patients with gastric SETs, EUS-guided tissue sampling was performed on the same SET in a randomized sequence, with EUS-FNA followed by EUS-FNB, or vice versa. After on-site cytological evaluation for cellularity, the cytological and histological examinations were performed. Results There was a significant difference in the median number of needle passes to obtain adequate cellularity in the on-site cytological evaluation (2.0 for EUS-FNA vs 1.0 for EUS-FNB, P = 0.008). The proportion of adequate cellularity on the first needle pass was significantly higher in the EUS-FNB than in the EUS-FNA group (68.2% vs 31.8%, P = 0.034). However, diagnosis based on IHC examination was established in 15 (68.2%) and 18 (81.8%) cases by EUS-FNA and EUS-FNB, respectively ( P = 0.488). Conclusions EUS-FNB decreases the number of needle passes to obtain adequate cellularity and yields a higher proportion of adequate cellularity during the first needle pass compared with EUS-FNA in gastric SETs. However, there was no significant difference in diagnostic yield with IHC stain between the two procedures after on-site cytological evaluation for adequate cellularity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose To compare the effects of ketorolac 0.45% and diclofenac 0.1% on macular thickness and volume after uncomplicated cataract surgery. Methods A total of 76 eyes of 76 patients who underwent uncomplicated cataract surgery were included. Patients were treated with either diclofenac 0.1% (38 eyes) or ketorolac 0.45% (38 eyes) after surgery. The macular thickness and volume were obtained with optical coherence tomography ( OCT). Central subfield thickness ( CST, OCT 1 mm zone), total foveal thickness ( TFT, OCT 3 mm zone), total macular thickness ( TMT, OCT 6 mm zone), average macular thickness (AMT) and total macular volume ( TMV) were compared between the two study groups. Results No significant differences between groups were found in macular thickness or volume 1 month after cataract surgery. Two months after surgery, the ketorolac group had significantly lower CST, TFT, TMT and AMT than the diclofenac group (p < 0.05 for all). Additionally, 1 and 2 months after surgery, changes from preoperative values in CST (both p = 0.04), AMT (p = 0.02 and p < 0.01, respectively) and TMV (both p = 0.04) were significantly less in the ketorolac group than in the diclofenac group. Conclusions Following uncomplicated cataract surgery, topical ketorolac 0.45% was more effective than diclofenac 0.1% in preventing increases in macular thickness and volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A piezoelectric energy harvester (PEH) transduces mechanical energy into electrical energy, which can be utilized as an energy source for self-powered or low-power devices. Therefore, maximizing the power of a PEH is a crucial design objective. It is well known that structural designs are firstly conducted for controlling resonance characteristics, and then circuit designs are pursued through impedance matching for improving power. However, a PEH contains solid mechanics, electrostatics, and even a circuit-coupled multi-physics system. Therefore, this research aims to design a PEH considering a circuit-coupled multi-physics. As a design process, a conceptual design is developed by topology optimization, and a detailed design is developed sequentially by applying size optimization as a post-processing step to refine the conceptual design results for manufacturable design. In the two optimization processes, design optimizations of a structure coupled with circuit resistor are performed to maximize the power, where the electrical and mechanical interactions between PZT, substrate, and circuit resistor are simultaneously considered. Additionally, stress constraints are also added for structural safety to ensure operational life of PEH. As a result of the proposed design methodology, a manufacturable design of PEH having maximum power and operational life is obtained with power density of 6.61   μ W g − 2 m m − 3 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on mechanisms and symptoms of several simulated failure modes, which may have significant influences on the long-term durability and operational stability of intermediate temperature-solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs), including fuel/oxidation starvation by breakdown of fuel/air supply components and wet and dry cycling atmospheres. Anode-supported IT-SOFCs consisting of a Ba 0.5 Sr 0.5 Co 0.8 Fe 0.2 O 3-δ (BSCF)-Nd 0.1 Ce 0.9 O 2-δ (NDC) composite cathode with an NDC electrolyte on a Ni-NDC anode substrate are fabricated via dry-pressings followed by the co-firing method. Comprehensive and systematic research based on the failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) of anode-supported IT-SOFCs is conducted using various electrochemical and physiochemical analysis techniques to extend our understanding of the major mechanisms of performance deterioration under SOFC operating conditions. The fuel-starvation condition in the fuel-pump failure mode causes irreversible mechanical degradation of the electrolyte and cathode interface by the dimensional expansion of the anode support due to the oxidation of Ni metal to NiO. In contrast, the BSCF cathode shows poor stability under wet and dry cycling modes of cathode air due to the strong electroactivity of SrO with H 2 O. On the other hand, the air-depletion phenomena under air-pump failure mode results in the recovery of cell performance during the long-term operation without the visible microstructural transformation through the reduction of anode overvoltage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composite electrolyte materials composed of neodymium-doped ceria (Nd 0.2 Ce 0.8 O 1.9 ; NDC) and (Li–0.5Na) 2 CO 3 are investigated to understand the unique behaviors of their multi-ionic conduction. In the intermediate temperature, the NDC-based carbonate composite electrolytes exhibit a much higher conductivity compared to pure NDC. It has been claimed that the oxide ions are transported in the doped-ceria phase via oxygen vacancies and the protons are conducted through the second carbonate phase, thereby resulting in an enhanced ionic conductivity. However, it has not been experimentally demonstrated if the proton conduction within the carbonate phase aided in improving the conductivity of oxygen ions in the composite system. Hence, the primary objective of this work is to cultivate a deeper insight into the conduction property of these composites as an attempt to clarify the ionic transport phenomenon responsible for enhanced conductivity. Electrical conductivities of NDC and NDC/carbonate materials are investigated as a function of oxygen partial pressure and vapor pressure of water to understand transport properties of composite electrolytes. The ionic and electronic transference numbers of composite electrolytes are measured by the oxygen- and hydrogen-concentration cells containing water. The dominant charge carriers are identified quantitatively through the analysis of the partial conductivity of proton, oxygen ions, and electrons (holes). Understanding the transport properties and transference numbers of composite electrolytes can contribute to the development of commercial solid oxide fuel cells, which can be done by reducing the operating temperature using a highly ionic conductive NDC/carbonate composite electrolyte at the intermediate temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although particulate matter is a known carcinogen, its association with childhood cancer is inconclusive. The present study aimed to examine the association between long-term exposure to particulate matter and childhood cancer. A retrospective cohort was constructed from the claims database of the Korea National Health Insurance Service, including children born in seven metropolitan cities in Korea between 2002 and 2012. Monthly mean concentrations of particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter <10 μm (PM 10) and other air pollutants (NO 2 , SO 2 , CO, and O 3) were calculated using data from the AirKorea. Monthly mean concentrations of particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter <2.5 μm (PM 2.5) were estimated based on a data fusion approach. Cumulative exposure was assessed by averaging the monthly concentrations accounting for the residential mobility of the children. The occurrence of cancer was identified by the appearance of diagnosis codes in the claims database. Hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated using Cox proportional regression, adjusting for potential confounders and O 3 concentrations. During the study period, 1,725 patients were newly diagnosed with cancer among 1,261,855 children. HR of all cancers per 10 μg/m3 increment in annual mean concentrations of PM 2.5 and PM 10 were 3.02 (95% CI: 1.63, 5.59) and 1.04 (0.74, 1.45), respectively. PM 2.5 exposure was positively associated with childhood cancer in a large retrospective cohort with exposure assessment accounting for residential mobility. • The association between childhood cancer and PM2.5 was examined. • Long-term exposure to PM2.5 was associated with increased childhood cancer risk. • Retrospective cohort study with health insurance database enabled to observe enough events. • Accounting address change during follow-up made exposure assessment more accurate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims Impedance analysis using high-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) enables the recognition of pharyngeal residue in patients with oropharyngeal dysphagia. The aims of this study were to evaluate appropriate criteria for impedance analysis in a large patient cohort, as well as the diagnostic accuracy and agreement of analysis performed by HRIM trainees. Methods We reviewed 33 controls (13 males; median age, 61.2 years) and 104 oropharyngeal dysphagia patients (61 males; median age, 70.4 years) who underwent a flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing study (FEES) and HRIM. Two experts compared the pharyngeal residue on FEES and impedance color pattern at 1,000, 1,500 and 2,000 Ω of the impedance bar. Three trainees were given a 60 minutes tutorial to determine the diagnostic accuracy and agreement of this analysis. Results The diagnostic sensitivity of experts for predicting liquid residue was 73.1% for 1,000 Ω, 96.2% for 1,500 Ω and 100% for 2,000 Ω. Significantly higher sensitivity was observed at 1,500 Ω compared to 1,000 Ω (P < 0.001). The diagnostic specificity of experts for liquid residue was 98.3% for 1,000 Ω, 96.6% for 1,500 Ω and 83.1% for 2,000 Ω. There was a higher specificity at 1,500 Ω compared to 2,000 Ω (P = 0.008). The κ value among the 3 trainees was 0.89 and the diagnostic accuracy of the trainees for liquid residue was comparable to that of the experts. Conclusions The impedance analysis at 1,500 Ω provides more accurate information for the detection of liquid residue, irrespective of the level of expertise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims It is essential that clinicians have an understanding of patients' perceptions of constipation as well as constipation misperception (CM), which can be defined as failure to recognize the six constipation symptoms (infrequency, straining, hard stool, incomplete evacuation, anorectal obstruction or manual maneuver). The aims of our study were to identify the prevalence of CM and its association with demographics and clinical features. Methods This nationwide survey included 625 self-reported constipated subjects (431 females; mean age, 41.2 years) among random participants in the National Health Screening Program. The prevalence of CM for each constipation symptom was estimated, and the participants were classified into nil (0), low (1-2), mid (3-4) and high (5-6) level CM subgroups according to the number of misperceived symptoms. Results The highest rate of CM was observed for manual maneuver (48.3%), followed by anorectal obstruction (38.4%), stool infrequency (34.6%), incomplete evacuation (32.2%), hard stool (27.2%) and straining (25.4%). Among the nil (n = 153), low (n = 242), mid (n = 144) and high level (n = 86) subgroups, there were significant differences in the proportions of males (18.3%, 34.3%, 39.6% and 30.2%; P = 0.001, respectively), never-married status (25.7%, 38.2%, 36.8% and 45.9%; P = 0.030, respectively) and those who did not receive treatment for constipation (41.8%, 47.5%, 58.3% and 66.3%; P < 0.001, respectively). There was a significant linear trend of increasing degree of CM with decreasing symptoms experienced (P < 0.001). Conclusions CM is significantly associated with gender, marital status, treatment utilization and the range of constipation symptoms experienced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Composite BaZr0.85Y0.15O3−δ proton conductors with (Li–0.5Na)2CO3 are fabricated for protonic ceramic fuel cells. [•] (Li–0.5Na)2CO3 promotes the densification of BaZr0.85Y0.15O3−δ at low sintering temperature. [•] The conductivity of composite electrolytes is significantly higher than that of BaZr0.85Y0.15O3−δ. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Vibrio vulnificus is a foodborne pathogen that is prevalent in coastal waters worldwide. Infection with V. vulnificus causes septicemia with fatality rates exceeding 50% even with aggressive antibiotic therapy. Several vaccine studies to prevent V. vulnificus infection have been performed but have had limited success. In this study, we identified the C-terminal region (amino acids 3491 to 4701) of the V. vulnificus multifunctional autoprocessing RTX (MARTXVv or RtxA1) protein, RtxA1-C, as a promising antigen that induces protective immune responses against V. vulnificus. Vaccination of mice with recombinant RtxA1-C protein with adjuvant elicited a robust antibody response and a dramatic reduction in blood bacterial load in mice infected intraperitoneally. Vaccination resulted in significant protection against lethal challenge with V. vulnificus. Furthermore, intraperitoneal passive immunization with serum raised against the recombinant RtxA1-C protein demonstrated marked efficacy in both prophylaxis and therapy. These results suggest that active and passive immunization against the C-terminal region of the RtxA1 protein may be an effective approach in the prevention and therapy of V. vulnificus infections. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Two isolation valves failed prematurely in the steam generator blow down system of a nuclear power plant. Metallurgical analysis of the damaged stems in the isolation valves was made. Heat treatment tests were carried out to verify the reliability of stems in comparison with the required mechanical specifications. The results of the analysis showed the abnormal precipitation of nonmetallic inclusions, MnS, in the matrix. These nonmetallic inclusions which could acts as notches were distributed randomly to 0.2vol.%, two times higher than those of typical materials. In addition, the hardness of the damaged stems was twofold higher and the elongation was reduced by half compared to those values attainable from a proper full annealing. It is concluded that improper tempering applied to the damaged stems resulted in second hardening and decrease in toughness, consequently shortening the life of the stems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We report a novel scratch-resistant and healable automotive clearcoat that can not only protect the substrate surface but also facilitate scratch repair. A self-healable disulfide polyurethane diol adduct (DSPUDA) was synthesized via step-growth polymerization with bis(4-hydroxyphenyl) disulfide, isophorone diisocyanate, and poly(tetrahydrofuran). The reversibility of bond cleavages and associations of the synthesized DSPUDA was quantified through nuclear magnetic resonance analysis, and its healing properties were confirmed using a universal testing machine and a rheometer. The material properties of clearcoats were tuned by varying the amounts of the DSPUDA added to prepared control clearcoats. The scratch resistances of the resultant clearcoats were assessed using an Amtec-Kistler car-wash tester and a gloss-meter, and their scratch-healing performances were evaluated using a micro-scratch tester and an optical microscope. In addition, the healing efficiency was quantitatively scrutinized using a nano-scratch tester and an atomic force microscope. The thermal properties of the clearcoat samples specifically, the thermal decomposition temperature, glass-transition temperature, and degree of crosslinking were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and dynamic mechanical analysis, respectively. The mechanical properties of the clearcoat surfaces were investigated using nano-indentation and pendulum hardness tests. The healing efficiency and mechanical properties of the prepared clearcoats exhibited an inverse trade-off relationship. Nevertheless, optimizing the proportion of reversible disulfide bonds of the DSPUDA in the polyacrylate-based urethane networks not only resulted in superior scratch healing and scratch resistance but also maintained sufficient mechanical properties for the coatings to be used as automotive clearcoats. • A novel self-healable disulfide polyurethane diol adduct (DSPUDA) was synthesized. • The reversibility of bond cleavages and associations of the DSPUDA were investigated. • The self-healing and rheological properties of automotive clearcoats containing DSPUDA were quantitatively analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the electrification of automobiles, the importance of an electric traction motor and inverter system is increasing. Durability and reliability tests are crucial in the development process of electric vehicle (EV) systems. To reduce the time and cost of durability and reliability tests, accelerated life testing (ALT) that applies high-stress conditions in a short time needs to be carried out. Because the electric traction motor and inverter system have been combined as vehicles have become smaller, it is necessary to concurrently test these parts. This study proposes a scenario-based multidisciplinary optimization (SBMO) method to develop a new ALT that simultaneously assesses the mechanical damage to the electric traction motor and the electrical damage to the inverter system. First, four driving scenarios for the ALT are extracted by analyzing the driving conditions of various field tests. Second, a methodology for EV modeling and lifespan prediction of the electric traction motor and inverter system based on the analytical mechanics is proposed. Third, discrete scenario variables corresponding to the four driving scenarios are defined. Fourth, a new SBMO problem is formulated to generate a new ALT. The test requirements of an ALT are reflected in the SBMO constraints to be employed in the development of EVs. Finally, a genetic algorithm is used to solve the SBMO problem. The SBMO successfully obtains the optimum ALT cycle satisfying the test requirements for designing an electric traction motor and inverter system in the early design stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Effects of overexpression of an unfolded protein response (UPR) gene were investigated in recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains harboring 16 copies of the gene for human kringle protein, LK8. In S. cerevisiae, Hac1p plays a crucial role as a transcription activator and Ire1p as endonuclease acting on the HAC1 transcript to remove an intron and induce the UPR. The disruption of the two genes was detrimental to LK8 expression, and interestingly, the hac1Δ strain was not able to utilize galactose as a carbon source and concomitantly delayed cell growth compared with the wild type and the ire1Δ strains. In a complementation test, the growth defect was partially recovered by the overexpression of the HAC1 gene controlled by the GAL1 promoter. Additional activation of UPR was mediated by the GAL1 promoter driven coexpression of the HAC1 gene and enhanced the intracellular and secreted levels of LK8 by 4- and 1.6-fold, respectively. The UPR was essentially required for the heterologous production of LK8. Furthermore, Hac1p is the factor promoting LK8 protein production as well as cell growth in recombinant S. cerevisiae strains. This result indicates that the additional activation of UPR might be a good option for overproduction of heterologous proteins in S. cerevisiae. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The detailed mechanisms of how DNA that is assembled around a histone core can be accessed by DNA-binding proteins for transcription, replication, or repair, remain elusive nearly 40 years after Kornberg''s nucleosome model was proposed. Uncovering the structural dynamics of nucleosomes is a crucial step in elucidating the mechanisms regulating genome accessibility. This requires the deconvolution of multiple structural states within an ensemble. Recent advances in single-molecule methods enable unprecedented efficiency in examining subpopulation dynamics. In this review, we summarize studies of nucleosome structure and dynamics from single-molecule approaches and how they advance our understanding of the mechanisms that govern DNA transactions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Nucleosomes are the fundamental packing units of the eukaryotic genome. A nucleosome core particle comprises an octameric histone core wrapped around by ~147bp DNA. Histones and DNA are targets for covalent modifications mediated by various chromatin modification enzymes. These modifications play crucial roles in various gene regulation activities. A group of common hypotheses for the mechanisms of gene regulation involves changes in the structure and structural dynamics of chromatin induced by chromatin modifications. We employed single molecule fluorescence methods to test these hypotheses by monitoring the structure and structural dynamics of nucleosomes before and after histone acetylation and DNA methylation, two of the best-conserved chromatin modifications throughout eukaryotes. Our studies revealed that these modifications induce changes in the structure and structural dynamics of nucleosomes that may contribute directly to the formation of open or repressive chromatin conformation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Vibrio vulnificus is a lethal pathogen that is responsible for most seafood-related deaths. The mortality rate for susceptible individuals is higher than 50% within 1–2days after contact with the bacteria. Recent studies suggest that RtxA1, a secreted bacterial toxin, plays a key role in the cytotoxicity and pathogenesis of V. vulnificus. Despite the important role of RtxA1 in the virulence of V. vulnificus, few monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) against RtxA1 have been generated or characterized. In this study, we purified a recombinant RtxA1 protein with a mass of approximately 130kDa that contains GD-rich repeats proposed to play an important role in host cell killing, and generated a panel of 10 new MAbs against the recombinant RtxA1 protein. By performing competition binding assays and expressing RtxA1 fragments via nested deletions of the gene, we spatially mapped our new MAbs to three fragments of the recombinant RtxA1 protein. Western blot analysis and immunostaining studies showed that the MAbs efficiently reacted with secreted and host cell-targeted RtxA1 from V. vulnificus. These data suggest that the RtxA1 MAbs might be effectively used as important biomaterials for manufacturing toxin-neutralizing therapeutic MAbs targeting the bacterial RtxA1 toxin and could be relevant for developing rapid and specific diagnostic tools against lethal V. vulnificus infections. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Vector potential current method is proposed as an effective computational technique for design sensitivity analysis of static linear electromagnetic-structure coupled system. With this method, design derivatives of responses can be acquired without access to the source code of a finite element program. This method is suitable for design sensitivity analysis outside of a finite element program. Several numerical examples are performed to verify the accuracy of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: Epilepsy is a neurodegenerative disease with periodic occurrences of spontaneous seizures as the main symptom. The aim of this study was to investigate the neuroprotective effects of capsaicin, the major ingredient of hot peppers, in a kainic acid (KA)-induced status epilepticus model. After intraperitoneal injections of KA (30mg/kg) in 8-week-old male ICR mice, the animals were treated subcutaneously with capsaicin (0.33mg/kg or 1mg/kg) and then examined for any anti-ictogenic, hypothermic, antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects of the capsaicin treatment 3 days after KA treatment. KA injections significantly enhanced neurodegenerative conditions but co-injection with capsaicin reduced the detrimental effects of KA in a dose-dependent manner in mice. The co-administered group that received KA and 1mg/kg of capsaicin showed significantly decreased behavioral seizure activity and body temperature for 3h and also remarkably blocked intense and high-frequency seizure discharges in the parietal cortex for 3 days compared with those that received KA alone. Capsaicin treatment significantly diminished the levels of oxidant activity and malondialdehyde concentration and increased the antioxidant activity in the blood and brain of KA-treated mice. In addition, capsaicin significantly lowered the KA-induced increase in the concentration of the cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α in the brain. Furthermore, co-treatment of KA and capsaicin (1mg/kg) resulted in considerably decreased apoptotic cell death in the cornu ammonis sections of the hippocampus compared with that seen in the KA-alone group. These findings indicate that capsaicin is preventative for the epileptogenesis induced by KA in mice. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)/poly(1-vinyl-3-ethylimidazolium+ (trifluoromethane sulfonyl)imide−) (PIL) complexes were prepared at various PEDOT/PIL molar ratios and dispersed in propylene carbonate at a concentration of 1wt%. After casting, the maximum conductivity was measured to be 1.2×10−1 S/cm, which could be explained by the 3D variable range hopping model. The optimum surface roughness of the PEDOT/PIL film was measured, showing S a and S q values of 5.92 and 11.0nm, respectively. The conductivity of the polymerized PEDOT without a template process had low conductivity due to its poor surface roughness and large particle size. Therefore, the conductivity of PEDOT/PILs is determined by the particle size, crystallinity and surface morphology. These results were supported by surface mapping microscopy, X-ray photon spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The T4 bacteriophage helicase loader (gp59) is one of the main eight proteins that play an active role in the replisome. gp59 is a small protein (26 kDa) that exists as a monomer in solution and in the crystal. It binds preferentially to forked DNA and interacts directly with the T4 helicase (gp41), single-stranded DNA-binding protein (gp32), and polymerase (gp43). However, the stoichiometry and structure of the functional form are not very well understood. There is experimental evidence for a hexameric structure for the helicase (gp41) and the primase (gp61), inferring that the gp59 structure might also be hexameric. Various experimental approaches, including gel shift, fluorescence anisotropy, light scattering, and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, have not provided a clearer understanding of the stoichiometry. In this study, we employed single-molecule photobleaching (smPB) experiments to elucidate the stoichiometry of gp59 on a forked DNA and to investigate its interaction with other proteins forming the primosome complex. smPB studies were performed with Alexa 555-labeled gp59 proteins and a forked DNA substrate. Co-localization experiments were performed using Cy5-labeled forked DNA and Alexa 555-labeled gp59 in the presence and absence of gp32 and gp41 proteins. A systematic study of smPB experiments and subsequent data analysis using a simple model indicated that gp59 on the forked DNA forms a hexamer, In addition, the presence of gp32 and gp41 proteins increases the stability of the gp59 complex, emphasizing their functional role in T4 DNA replication machinery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Nonvolatile memory device with SiC nano-particles formed in SiO2 was fabricated and its electrical properties were evaluated. The SiC and SiO2 thin layer were deposited by radio-frequency magnetron sputtering in the argon gas ambient. The SiC nano-particles were formed after post thermal annealing at 900  ∘C for 3 min, and then their average size appeared at about 10 nm and was distributed between tunnel oxide and control oxide layers. The flat-band voltage shift in a gate capacitor structure with SiC nano-particles appeared at about 5.1 V when the induced gate voltage was swept from ±14 V. Also, the memory window of nonvolatile memory devices to define write and erase conditions were about 2.7 V during the operations at ±12 V for 1 s. According to these write and erase conditions, it was maintained at about 1.2 V after 104 s at the charge-retention characteristics. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The major cement composition ratios of alite, belite, aluminate, and ferrite have been calculated with the Bogue models until now. However, a recent comprehensive analysis based on various experimental data has revealed that the chemical composition of alite, belite, aluminate, and ferrite implemented by the Bogue models are slightly different than the experimental data, where small amounts of Al2O3 and Fe2O3 existing in alite and belite can change the prediction of cement composition. Since the amounts of cement compound are very important factors in determining the properties of concrete, improvement in the calculation would give more precise prediction for application usages such as climate change adaptable cement and high durable concrete manufacturing. For this purpose, 20 new models are proposed by modifying chemical compositions of the cement compounds and verified with the 50 experimental data sets. From the verification, the most accurate models are identified. The calculation using new models exhibit an accuracy improvement of approximately 5% compared to the Bogue models. Their applicable range is also presented. The study results are discussed in detail in the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The elastic net can analyze the significance of input variables regardless of the data type of input variables and statistical assumptions. However, the significance can alter owing to sampling uncertainty arising from the design of experiments such as the optimal Latin hypercube design which may generate different datasets at each time even if the same number of data points is sampled. This sampling uncertainty affects elastic net modeling and causes incorrect inferences. Additionally, studies on the reduction of sampling uncertainty for the elastic net are not addressed yet. Therefore, this study proposes a robust elastic net via bootstrap method (RENBOOT) to reduce sampling uncertainty. Relevance of input variables was analyzed using the statistical criterion that is based on bootstrap confidence intervals for estimated coefficients of the elastic net to accurately analyze the significance of input variables. Then, the significance of relevant input variables was analyzed using the significance measure that is based on bootstrap replications for the estimated coefficients of the elastic net. Through mathematical examples, the accuracies (balanced accuracy, F1 score, Cohen's kappa, root mean square error) of the relevance and significance of input variables using RENBOOT were verified to be highly improved compared with those of the elastic net. Furthermore, the significance of input variables for the body-in-white of a vehicle was analyzed using RENBOOT, which can give useful information for significant input variable selection. That is, we expect that design optimization can be performed efficiently by selecting significant input variables based on the significance via RENBOOT. • Sampling uncertainty of the elastic net is addressed. • RENBOOT is proposed to reduce the sampling uncertainty. • Statistical criterion and significance measure are used to analyze significance. • Accuracies of RENBOOT are significantly improved compared with those of elastic net. • Significance of input variables for the body-in-white of a vehicle is analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

News portals should be held to the same standard of liability for defamation as other news media. Internet service providers (ISPs) enjoy blanket immunity from liability for defamation under Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, while information content providers (ICPs) might not. Some courts have indicated, however, that a defendant who participates in developing third-party content should be classified as an ICP and thus be held liable. Confusion over the difference between an ISP and an ICP is applied to the case of news portals. This study investigates to what extent news portals should enjoy immunity from liability for defamation. To determine a news portal's exposure to liability, a continuum of involvement is proposed as a standard in which liability is based on a defendant's actions and not on the medium employed. A defendant's involvement with third-party content can be classified under the four levels of the continuum, which can guide courts in deciding whether a defendant is liable. Congress should amend Section 230 to incorporate the continuum and allow courts discretion in determining whether a defendant is immune from liability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: To increase the metabolic flux toward the NADPH-generating pentose phosphate pathway in a recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain that harbors the xylose reductase gene from Pichia stipitis, expression of phosphoglucose isomerase (PGI) encoded by the PGI1 gene was modulated by a promoter replacement using the ADH1 promoter. Although the ADH1 promoter down-regulated PGI expression in glucose-limited condition, the decline of PGI activity did not exert a profound influence on xylitol production in a series of glucose-limited fed-batch cultivations. However, simultaneous enforcement of glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) activity and attenuation of phosphoglucose isomerase activity worked in a cooperative manner to increase xylitol production and to reduce utilization of cosubstrate required for xylitol production in a glucose-limited fed-batch cultivation of the PGI mutant strain with an enhanced G6PDH activity. An 1.9-fold increase in specific xylitol productivity of 0.34±0.03g/gcellsh was achieved compared with the control strain containing xylose reductase only. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]