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Background: Augmented reality has been widely applied in various fields, and its benefits in language learning have been increasingly recognized. However, the investigation of effective learning behaviours and processes in augmented reality learning environments, taking into account temporality and analysis of differences in learning behaviours between learning achievements from the perspective of learning strategies, is still a topic that requires further research. Objectives: The goal of this research is to explore effective learning processes in AR language learning environments and learning behavioural patterns of learners with different performance levels via LA taking into account temporality. Methods: We used the learning application designed and developed in previous studies to understand the learning process and behavioural patterns of acquiring Japanese compound verbs with augmented reality. Lag sequential analyses were conducted to analyse the learning behavioural transitions using learning data. Additionally, frequent sequences were analysed using frequent sequence mining to compare the learning behavioural patterns of learners with different learning performances. Results and Conclusions: We investigated the learning process and behavioural patterns and discussed the language learning strategies employed in the augmented reality learning environment. The results indicated that learners primarily performed strategies of performed expressions, recombining, and structured reviewing in AR compound verb learning activities. Furthermore, the results revealed the different types of strategies applied by different learning performance learners, whereby the low group learners used the least variety of strategies, and the middle and high group learners employed repeating and deductive reasoning strategies that were not followed by the low group. Lay Description: What is already known about this topic: The development of information and communication technologies have made augmented reality (AR) technology gradually known and applied.The use of AR is increasingly gaining attention in language learning owing to advantages of increasing motivation and satisfaction, learning performance of language skills and improving interaction among materials, learners and teachers.Learning Analytics (LA) plays a key role in analysing learning data.LA studies in language learning are almost always used to monitor data such as attendance and amount of learned vocabulary. What this paper adds: Employing temporal LA techniques of lag sequential analysis and frequent sequence mining to investigate learners' behavioural patterns and processes.Learning behavioural patterns in AR learning environments were discussed from the perspective of language learning strategies.The three main learning behavioural patterns of analysing expressions, recombining, and structured reviewing in the learning process were confirmed.High performance level learners used the greatest variety of learning strategies. Implications: A new category of language learning strategies under technology‐enhanced language learning is required.Different learning strategies should be instructed for the learner's performance in the AR learning environment.Based on a full understanding of the role of AR system features, it is crucial to conduct instructional designs for language learning using language learning strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accumulation of rare-earth and heavy metal ions from wastewater is important for industrial technology. However, practical accumulators of metal ions are expensive with respect procurement of raw materials, synthesis, and preparation. Therefore, it is preferable to accumulate metal ions using sustainable resources, such as natural polymers. Fucoidan, a water-soluble natural polymer, is a sulfated polysaccharide from the cell-wall of brown algae. Therefore, fucoidan behaves as an acidic polysaccharide in an aqueous solution. We prepared a fucoidan-inorganic composite material by mixing fucoidan and a silane coupling reagent, bis(3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl)amine (SiNSi). This fucoidan-SiNSi (F-SiNSi) composite material showed a water-insoluble property. This is due to the encapsulation of fucoidan into a three-dimensional network of SiNSi with siloxane bonding. When the F-SiNSi composite material is immersed in a metal ion-containing aqueous solution, the composite material accumulated the metal ions. The binding affinity of each metal ion was Ca(II), Mg(II) << Nd(III) < Cu(II), Zn(II), Ni(II), La(III) < In(III) < Y(III). Additionally, the maximum-accumulated amounts of the Nd(III), Cu(II), Zn(II), Ni(II), La(III), In(III), and Y(III) ions were 140, 200, 190, 200, 200, 230, and 270 nmol per mg of fucoidan, respectively. Furthermore, the molar ratios of the acidic groups (the sulfate and carboxyl groups) in the fucoidan and accumulated metal ions, were 0.081–0.156. Therefore, the F-SiNSi composite material showed a selectivity for rare-earth and heavy metal ions. The accumulation mechanism of the rare-earth and heavy metal ions was related to the carboxyl groups in the fucoidan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microplastic that pollutes the ocean is a serious problem around the world. The bioplastic consisting of biopolymers which is degraded in nature, is one of the strategies to solve this problem. Although the bioplastics consisting of protein, polysaccharide, polylactic acid, etc., have been reported, which consist of DNA, one of the most important materials in the genetic process, have not been reported to the best of our knowledge. In addition, a large amount of DNA-containing materials, such as salmon milts, is discarded as industrial waste around the world. Therefore, we demonstrated the preparation of a bioplastic consisting of salmon milt DNA. The DNA plastic was prepared by the immersion of a DNA pellet in a formaldehyde (HCHO) solution and heating. As a result, the water-stable DNA plastics were obtained at the HCHO concentration of 20% or more. Particularly, the DNA plastic with a 25% HCHO treatment showed water-insoluble, thermally stable, and highly mechanical properties. These are due to the formation of a three-dimensional network via the crosslinking reaction between the DNA chains. In addition, since DNA in plastic possesses the double-stranded structure, these plastics effectively accumulated the DNA intercalator, such as ethidium bromide. Furthermore, the DNA plastics indicated a biodegradable property in a nuclease-containing aqueous solution and the biodegradable stability was able to be controlled by the HCHO concentration. Therefore, salmon milt DNA has shown the potential to be a biodegradable plastic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this survey, 4 such cases were identified; for 3 drugs (oral to intravenous, oral to intramuscular, and oral to ocular injection) J-PhI study waivers were accepted, but for 1 drug (subcutaneous to intravenous) the waiver was not accepted. For small-molecule drugs, 5 drugs were successfully waived (dosing route: inhalation, ocular instillation, intramuscular, intravenous or subcutaneous injection) due to at least 1 reason in Table 1. Keywords: ethnic sensitivity/difference; dosage regimen; drug dose; Japanese; phase I study; regulatory science EN ethnic sensitivity/difference dosage regimen drug dose Japanese phase I study regulatory science 1410 1418 9 12/13/21 20211201 NES 211201 The pharmacokinetic (PK) and the pharmacodynamic (PD) properties of a drug and correlations of PK and PD with clinical efficacy and safety are important to assess the sensitivity of a drug to potential differences between ethnic groups. [Extracted from the article]

Daprodustat is a prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor that stimulates erythropoiesis in a manner similar to the natural response to hypoxia, whereby inhibition of hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) prolyl‐4‐hydroxylases by daprodustat ultimately results in increased levels of HIF‐responsive genes. Daprodustat is under development as an emerging new class of agents for the treatment of anemia associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This was a single‐center, single‐dose, open‐label, randomized, 2‐way crossover study in healthy Japanese male participants consisting of 2 parts. The primary objective was to evaluate the bioequivalence (BE) between daprodustat tablet strengths (part 1) and to evaluate the food effect on the pharmacokinetics (PK) of daprodustat (part 2). A total of 64 healthy Japanese male participants were enrolled; 52 participants were included in part 1 and 12 in part 2. BE was demonstrated between the daprodustat 2‐mg tablet and the daprodustat 4‐mg tablet. A standard CKD meal did not have a large effect on the PK parameters of daprodustat after a single oral dose of daprodustat 4 mg. Administration of single oral doses of daprodustat 4 mg was generally well tolerated in the healthy Japanese participants, and no new safety signals were identified without regard to food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soybean, one of the most abundant plants, has been cultivated around the world as a familiar crop. Especially, most of the soybean is globally used as a crop to obtain the oil. The degreased soybean contains a lot of protein in it. The part of the degreased soybean is used for the food of human consumption and livestock feed, however most of this are discarded as industrial waste throughout the world. Therefore, we demonstrated the preparation of bioplastics consisting of soy protein. Although the soy protein without the cross-linking reaction by formaldehyde (HCHO) was collapsed in water, bioplastics were stable in water. Additionally, the bending strength of the bioplastic increased with the HCHO concentration and showed the maximum value of approximately 35 MPa at a 1% HCHO concentration. Surprisingly, this bending strength value was the same as that of polyethylene. In contrast, the infrared spectra indicated the formation of methylene cross-linking between the basic amino acids, such as lysine and arginine. Finally, we estimated the biodegradable property of the bioplastic by pronase, one of the proteolytic enzymes. As a result, this bioplastic showed the weight loss of approximately 30% after the incubation time of 6 days. These results suggested that the bioplastic consisting of soy protein possesses a biodegradable property. Therefore, the bioplastic consisting of soybean may have the potential to be used as a biodegradable material, such as agricultural materials, industrial parts, and disposable items. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, we used a novel drill dilator (Tornus ES, Asahi Intecc) for EUS-HGS in a difficult case of this kind (Fig. The present case demonstrates that Tornus is useful for fistula dilation in difficult cases of EUS-HGS. [Extracted from the article]

Online learning environments presently accumulate large amounts of log data. Analysis of learning behaviors from these log data is expected to benefit instructors and learners. This study was intended to identify effective measures from e-book materials used at Kyushu University and to employ these measures for analyzing learning behavioral patterns. In an evaluation, students were grouped into four clusters using k-means clustering, and their learning behavioral patterns were analyzed. We examined whether the learning behavioral patterns exhibited relations with the learning outcomes. The results reveal that the learning behavior of "backtrack" style reading exerts a significant positive influence on learning effectiveness, which can aid students to learn more efficiently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recently, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided hepaticogastrostomy (HGS) combined with antegrade stenting (AS) has been reported to be associated with longer stent patency and reduced procedure-related adverse events. In EUS-AS, an uncovered metal stent is usually selected to prevent stent misplacement or dislocation. However, because patient survival has improved with advances in chemotherapy, longer stent patency may be required.Aim: The technical feasibility and safety of EUS-guided transhepatic biliary drainage combined with EUS-AS using a novel covered metal stent were evaluated.Methods: Patients with malignant biliary obstruction leading to obstructive jaundice, in whom standard ERCP had failed or was contraindicated, were enrolled in this study between July 2015 and October 2017. As the control group, patients undergoing EUS-AS using an uncovered metal stent were enrolled between October 2014 and June 2015.Results: A total of 39 patients were enrolled in this study. Among them, EUS-AS using a covered metal stent was performed in 17 patients and using an uncovered metal stent in the remaining 22 patients. Median stent patency including stent dysfunction and patient death was longer in the covered metal stent group (153 days) compared with that of the uncovered metal stent group (108 days) although there were no significant differences (P = 0.06). In only cases with stent dysfunction was median stent patency of the covered metal stent group significantly longer than that of the uncovered metal stent group (not available vs 150 days, P = 0.02).Conclusions: In conclusion, EUS-guided transluminal biliary drainage combined with EUS-AS using a covered metal stent may be feasible and safe, although the indications for this procedure should be carefully considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this longitudinal study were to describe undergraduates' learning behavioral types in e-learning and to investigate their relationship to learning outcomes over an entire semester. In the first part of the study, 441 students at a national university in Japan were analyzed with regard to their visualization of learning progress. Seven distinct types of learning behavior were identified: (1) procrastination, (2) learning habit, (3) random, (4) diminished drive, (5) early bird, (6) chevron, and (7) catch-up. In the second part of this study, data from 226 students were analyzed. The results showed significant relationships between their learning type and ultimate learning outcomes. The students who exhibited the learning habit type scored significantly higher on the test than those students of the procrastination type. The results imply that regulated learning (i.e., forming a learning habit) could increase learning effectiveness and lead to better learning outcomes in e-learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anhydrous proton conductor consisting of a polypeptide was prepared by the mixing of polyglutamic acid (poly(Glu)) and polyhistidine (poly(His)), which were synthesized by the polymerization of an amino acid with diphenylphosphoryl azide (DPPA). These polypeptide hybrid materials interacted between the carboxyl group of poly(Glu) and the imidazole group of poly(His) and produced the acid-base structure. As a result, these polypeptide hybrid materials showed a thermal stability at intermediate temperatures (≤ 200 °C). Additionally, these hybrid materials indicated the proton conductivity of 1.4 × 10 −4 S cm −1 at 180 °C under anhydrous conditions. Furthermore, an activation energy of the proton conduction under anhydrous condition was 0.52–0.63 eV, one order higher than that of the customary humidified perfluorinated membranes. These results suggested that the proton transfer of hybrid material occurred by the anhydrous proton conductive mechanism. Therefore, the polypeptide hybrid material may have the potential to be utilized as a novel proton conductor under anhydrous condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, collaborative filtering, a recommendation algorithm that incorporates a user's data such as interest, has received worldwide attention as an advanced learning support system. However, accurate recommendations along with a user's interest cannot be ideal as an effective learning environment. This study aims to develop and evaluate an online English vocabulary learning system using collaborative filtering that allows learners to learn English vocabulary while expanding their interests. The online learning environment recommends English news articles using information obtained from other users with similar interests. The learner then studies these recommended articles as a method of learning English. The results of a two-month experiment that compared this system to an earlier collaborative filtering system called 'GroupLens' reveal that learners who used the collaborative filtering system developed in this study read various news articles and had significantly higher scores on topic-specific vocabulary tests than did those who used the previous system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We demonstrated the immobilization of double-stranded DNA onto the glass beads by psoralen, one of the DNA-intercalators in nature. As a result, DNA-immobilized glass beads (DNA-P-beads) were prepared by the intercalation of psoralen, which was immobilized onto the glass surface, onto the double-stranded DNA. These DNA-P-beads formed covalent bondings between psoralen and the nucleic acid base by 365nm UV irradiation. The amount of immobilized-DNA was 0.24mg per gram of glass beads. These DNA-P-beads were stable in water, and the DNA on the bead surface maintained its double-stranded structure. These DNA-P-beads selectively removed the planar-structure containing harmful compounds, such as dioxin and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) derivatives, from an aqueous multi-component solution. Additionally, a DNA-P-bead column effectively removed harmful compounds. Furthermore, the DNA-P-bead column could be reused by the addition of common organic solvents, such as ethanol. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Direct tissue analysis using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry (MS) provides the means for in situ molecular analysis of a wide variety of biomolecules. This technology-known as imaging mass spectrometry (IMS)-allows the measurement of biomolecules in their native biological environments without the need for target-specific reagents such as antibodies. In this study, we applied the IMS technique to formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples to identify a substance(s) responsible for the intestinal obstruction caused by an unidentified foreign body. In advance of IMS analysis, some pretreatments were applied. After the deparaffinization of sections, samples were subjected to enzyme digestion. The sections co-crystallized with matrix were desorbed and ionized by a laser pulse with scanning. A combination of α-amylase digestion and the 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid matrix gave the best mass spectrum. With the IMS Convolution software which we developed, we could automatically extract meaningful signals from the IMS datasets. The representative peak values were m/ z 1,013, 1,175, 1,337, 1,499, 1,661, 1,823, and 1,985. Thus, it was revealed that the material was polymer with a 162-Da unit size, calculated from the even intervals. In comparison with the mass spectra of the histopathological specimen and authentic materials, the main component coincided with amylopectin rather than amylose. Tandem MS analysis proved that the main components were oligosaccharides. Finally, we confirmed the identification of amylopectin by staining with periodic acid-Schiff and iodine. These results for the first time show the advantages of MALDI-IMS in combination with enzyme digestion for the direct analysis of oligosaccharides as a major component of histopathological samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: α-Lipoic acid (α-LA) has been reported to reduce ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). Proinflammatory cytokines stimulate the induction of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) gene expression, leading to excess production of NO and resulting in liver injury including IRI. We hypothesized that inhibition of iNOS induction underlies the protective effects of α-LA on the liver. The objective was to investigate whether α-LA directly influences iNOS induction in cultured hepatocytes, which is used as a simple in vitro injury model, and the mechanism involved. Methods: Primary cultured rat hepatocytes were treated with interleukin (IL)-1β in the presence or absence of α-LA. The induction of iNOS and NO production and its signal were analyzed. Results: α-LA inhibited the expression of iNOS mRNA and protein dose- and time-dependently, resulting in decreases in NO production. α-LA had no effects on the degradation of IκB proteins and activation of NF-κB. In contrast, α-LA inhibited the upregulation of type I IL-1 receptor stimulated by IL-1β, although α-LA had no effect on Akt activation. Transfection experiments with iNOS promoter-luciferase constructs revealed that α-LA had no effect on the transactivation of the iNOS promoter, but decreased the stabilization of iNOS mRNA. Further, α-LA inhibited the expression of an iNOS gene antisense-transcript, which is involved in iNOS mRNA stability. Conclusions: Results indicate that α-LA inhibits the induction of iNOS gene expression at a posttranscriptional step via iNOS mRNA stabilization, rather than promoter activation. It may provide useful therapeutic effects through the suppression of iNOS induction involved in liver injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A DNA–cyclodextrin–silica composite was prepared by the sol–gel method. This composite possessed the bi-functions of double-stranded DNA, such as intercalation into DNA, and cyclodextrin, such as inclusion into its intramolecular cavity. Therefore, we demonstrated the accumulation of harmful compounds from an aqueous multi-component solution using a DNA–cyclodextrin–silica composite column. As a result, the DNA–cyclodextrin–silica composite column can effectively accumulate not only planar structure-containing harmful compounds, such as dioxin and polychlorobiphenyl (PCB) derivatives, but also non-planar structure containing compounds, such as bisphenol A and diethylstilbestrol, from an aqueous multi-component solution. The accumulated amount of these harmful compounds was more than 90%. Additionally, the DNA–cyclodextrin–silica composite column was recycled by the application of methanol. Therefore, the DNA–cyclodextrin–silica composite may have the potential to be used as an environmental material for the accumulation of harmful compounds from industrial or experimental waste. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A DNA–cyclodextrin (CD)–inorganic hybrid material was prepared by mixing the DNA, CD, and silane coupling reagents, such as 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) or tetraethoxysilane (TEOS). The DNA–PCD–APTES hybrid material possessed a high water-stability. Additionally, the tensile strength of the hybrid material containing the APTES was approximately two times higher than that of hybrid material without the inorganic component. These chemical and physical properties were due to the formation of a siloxane network in the hybrid material and the electrostatic interaction between the phosphate group in the DNA and amino group in the APTES. Furthermore, the DNA–PCD–APTES hybrid material could be immobilized on a glass filter by the coupling reaction to the silanol group in the filter. When an aqueous multi-component solution, which contained dibenzofuran, biphenyl, bisphenol A, diethylstilbestrol, and naphthalene, was applied to DNA–PCD–APTES hybrid filter, this filter could effectively accumulate various harmful compounds, such as dioxin, polychlorobiphenyl (PCB), and bisphenol A. Especially, the accumulation of diethylstilbestrol was extremely high and this value was approximately 85%. In contrast, DNA–PCD–TEOS hybrid, that was prepared by the mixing of TEOS without the amino groups, was a fragile material and could not use for the adsorbent of harmful compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Alpha-cyclodextrin (α-CD), β-CD, and γ-CD are composed of six, seven, and eight d -glucopyranose residues, respectively, and have a hydrophobic cavity in their molecules. In this study, the water-soluble cyclodextrin-immobilized poly(allylamine) (PCD) with various cavity sizes was synthesized. These α-PCD, β-PCD, and γ-PCD showed stability constants of 9.9×102 M−1, 4.5×103 M−1, and 6.2×103 M−1 to the 1,8-ANS molecule, respectively. Additionally, these PCD polymers formed water-insoluble composite materials by mixing with the double-stranded DNA, which can accumulate planar structure-containing harmful compounds, such as dioxin and polychlorobiphenyl (PCB). Therefore, we demonstrated the accumulation of various harmful compounds by the DNA–PCD composite materials having various cavity sizes. As a result, although the DNA–β-PCD composite material could encapsulate the non-planar structure-containing harmful compounds, such as bisphenol A and diethylstilbestrol, the DNA–α-PCD composite material did not interact with these molecules. These phenomena were due to the effect on the intramolecular cavity of the CD in the polymer. In contrast, all of the DNA–PCDs could accumulate the planar structure-containing compounds by an intercalation mechanism regardless of the cavity size in the CD. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Water-soluble β-cyclodextrin-immobilized poly(ethyleneimine) (PEICD) was synthesized by the grafting of β-cyclodextrin to the branched poly(ethyleneimine). In an aqueous solution, this PEICD polymer could encapsulate bisphenol A, known to be a harmful compound. Additionally, the stability constant of bisphenol A to the PEICD polymer was 1.1×104 M−1. However, the water-solubility of PEICD has been making it difficult to utilize it as an environmental material. Therefore, we prepared the DNA–PEICD composite material by mixing the double-stranded DNA and PEICD. This DNA–PEICD composite material was extremely stable in water and possessed both properties of the intercalation into the double-stranded DNA and the encapsulation into the CD cavity. As a result, this material can accumulate various harmful compounds, such as dioxin- and polychlorobiphenyl (PCB)-derivatives and bisphenol A, from a multi-component solution. Therefore, the DNA–PEICD composite material may have the potential to be used as an environmental material. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: H3PW12O40 (12-phosphotungstic acid; PWA) is efficient catalysts for the selective oxidation of alkanes, aldehydes, and perfluorinated acids. However, PWA molecules are high solubility in water and this property has been making it difficult to utilize as an industrial catalyst. In this study, the water-insoluble PWA-conjugated chitosan matrix was prepared by mixing the aqueous PWA and chitosan solutions. This conjugate matrix was constructed by the electrostatic interaction between amino group of chitosan and negative charge of PWA and showed the thermal stability at <100°C. In addition, the PWA-conjugated chitosan matrix indicated the property for triphase catalyst as epoxidation of allylic alcohols, such as cinnamyl alcohol, farnesol, and so on. The isolated yield of epoxidation with the conjugate matrix was as same as that of pure PWA. Furthermore, since this conjugate matrix did not dissolve in water, matrices could easily separate from the reaction solvent and recycle more than 3 times. Therefore, the PWA-conjugated chitosan matrices may have a potential to utilize the novel catalyst for the epoxidation of various allylic alcohols. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Previously, we reported the DNA-inorganic hybrid material including double-stranded DNA by mixing the aqueous DNA solution and silane coupling reagents. Here, we immobilized the DNA-inorganic hybrid material onto the glass bead and prepared the DNA-immobilized glass bead column. The DNA-immobilized glass beads were stable in water and the amount of eluted DNA from the DNA-glass beads did not change for more than 1 week. Additionally, this DNA-immobilized column selectively accumulated the harmful compounds with the planar structure, such as dioxin- and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)-derivatives, and these accumulation percentages were 50–70%. Furthermore, the DNA-immobilized glass bead was recycled nine times by the application of ethanol solution and the accumulative ratio was maintained at more than 60% and did not appear to be decreasing. Therefore, these DNA-columns might have a potential for the selective removal and separation of DNA-intercalating molecules and harmful compounds with the planar structure from experimental or industrial drainages. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study aimed to clarify the relationship between media, learners’ perception of social presence, and output in communicative learning using synchronous computer-mediated communication (SCMC). In this study, we developed four types of SCMC: videoconferencing (image and voice), audioconferencing (voice but no image), text chat with image (image but no voice), and plain text chat (no image and no voice). Each system allows learners to be conscious of and utter a target formulaic expression. I investigated the effect of each system on psychological perception and productive output as well as the relationship between perception and output. The results show that image and voice promote consciousness of natural communication and relief, while a text-mediated system enhances confidence in grammatical accuracy. In order to clarify the relationship between media, affective side, and output, path analysis was conducted using SPSS Amos 7.0. The results indicated that voice communication strongly affects both learners’ affective side and output. The existence of a partner’s image enhances the consciousness of natural communication, which leads to a number of self-corrections, an aspect of learning performance. However, voice communication has a negative effect on confidence in grammatical accuracy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Double-stranded DNA is one of functional polymers, but the large amounts of DNA sources, such as salmon milt and shellfish gonads, have been discarded as industrial wastes. Therefore, conversion of this discarded DNA to be a useful material would be beneficial to utilize the unique property of DNA. These materials including DNA have been prepared by mixing with the organic polymers, such as alginic acid, collagen, and chitosan. However, since these materials have consisted from entirely organic components, these do not have the mechanical strength for a material. So, we prepared the organic–inorganic hybrid materials by mixing DNA with silane coupling reagents bis(trimethoxysilylpropyl)amine or bis[(3-trimethoxysilyl)propyl]ethylenediamine. These hybrid materials with the flexibility were water-insoluble and resistant to hydrolysis by nuclease. In addition, the mechanical strength of this hybrid material was approximately twice as high as that of DNA without mixing with silane coupling reagents. Furthermore, the double-stranded DNA in the hybrid materials has been maintained in a B-form structure in aqueous solution. Thus, we demonstrated the utilization of DNA as a functional material. As a result, this material could selectively accumulate harmful DNA-intercalating compounds with the planar structure, such as dibenzo-p-dioxin, dibenzofuran, and ethidium bromide. Organic–inorganic hybrid material including double-stranded DNA has potential to serve as a useful biomaterial for medical, engineering, and environmental applications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • Protein composite material indicates anhydrous proton conductivity. • Basic protein protamine and acid molecule form an acid-base composite. • Protamine is used as an energy material, such as anhydrous proton conductor. Protamine, one of the nucleoproteins, is contained in the sperm of fishes and is a linear polypeptide with many arginine (Arg) residues. The basic polypeptide chain can behave as the proton acceptor site in the acid-base composite material. Therefore, we prepared the composite material by the mixing of the basic protein, protamine, and the acidic molecule, methanediphosphonic acid (MP). The protamine-MP composite materials formed the acid-base complex by the electrostatic interaction between the protonated guanidino group in Arg residue and the deprotonated phosphonic acid group in the MP molecule. In addition, the protamine-MP composite material showed the anhydrous proton conductivity of 9.1 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 160 °C in the flowing dry nitrogen. The proton conducting mechanism in the protamine-MP composite material depended on the proton transfer to the proton defect site in the MP molecule without the need of diffusible molecules, such as the oxonium ion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Large amounts of DNA-enriched biomaterials, such as salmon milts and shellfish gonads, are discarded as industrial waste around the world. Therefore, the utilizations of DNA with the specific function are important for the biomaterial science and the curce technology. We could convert the discarded DNA to an enzymatic collapsible material by the addition of DNA to the artificial polymer material, such as nylon. Although these DNA–artificial polymer composite materials were stable in water, these materials indicated the collapsibility at the DNA-hydrolyzed enzyme, such as Micrococcal nuclease, condition. Additionally, these collapsibilities under enzyme condition were controlled by the number of imino groups in the components of the artificial polymer. Furthermore, these composite materials could create the fiber form with a highly ordered molecular orientation by the reaction at the liquid/liquid interface. The DNA–artificial polymer composite materials may have the potential utility as a novel bio-, medical-, and environmental materials with the enzymatic collapsibility and degradability. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In animal models of liver injury, proinflammatory cytokines are implicated in inducing iNOS, which is followed by the production of NO in hepatocytes. Previously we have reported that the up-regulation of type I IL-1 receptor (IL-1RI) is required for the transcriptional activation of iNOS gene, in concert with the activation of transcription factor NF-κB. In this study, we found three alternatively spliced isoforms of IL-1RI in primary cultured rat hepatocytes: two (long and short) membrane-bound and one soluble IL-1RI. Interleukin (IL)-1β markedly augmented the mRNA levels of long and short IL-1RI with time, but was less effective for soluble IL-1RI. Two membrane-bound IL-1RI were localized in the intracellular fraction, whereas soluble IL-1RI was released into the culture medium. Cotransfection experiments with iNOS promoter-luciferase constructs revealed that the overexpression of long and short IL-1RI, but not soluble IL-1RI, significantly increased the transactivation of iNOS promoter and the stabilization of its mRNA. In contrast, the addition of conditioned medium containing soluble IL-1RI reduced the induction of iNOS and NO production stimulated by IL-1β. These results further suggest that the enhancement of IL-1RI isoforms may contribute to the regulation of iNOS induction in hepatocytes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

DNA has special properties and its unique double-helical structure offers excellent prospects for creating novel DNA-based materials. In recent years, DNA has been shown to be an ideal molecule in the material world. This review is intended to provide an overview of functional materials derived from DNA based on the double-helical structure. Various DNA-based materials are reviewed according to the basic DNA structural properties, including the electrostatic properties of DNA as a highly charged polyelectrolyte, complementary base pairing, and intercalation and groove binding interaction with small molecules. Finally, attempts to produce biomaterials based on DNA are also summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines potential designs in the usage of synchronous computer-mediated communication (SCMC) for communicative language learning in learner-centered communication. In this study, we compared four types of SCMC: text-based chat with and without interlocutors' image, video conferencing, and audio conferencing, each supporting of the use of formulaic expressions concerning communication strategies. We investigated the effect of each type of SCMC on four features of language learning: perceived consciousness of social presence; perceived consciousness of language learning in communication; productive performance; and consciousness of learning objectives. The results showed that the interlocutor's image has a main effect for social presence as well as on some aspects of productive performance, and that the use of voice has a significant effect on perceived consciousness of language learning in communication, productive performance and consciousness of learning objectives. In addition, an interaction effect was confirmed on perceived consciousness of social presence and productive performance. It can be said that social presence aids second language communication in learner-centered communication; however, it can inhibit consciousness of learning context and learning objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Metal oxides with the nano-structure, such as nano-porous, -sheet, -particle, and -tube, have been attracted for the functional materials on the future technology. Especially, one-dimensional (1D) metal oxide nanotubes are emerging as potentially useful materials. In this paper, we prepared the 1D proton conductor under high vapor pressure condition employing titanate (H2Ti3O7) nanotube (TNT). This metal oxide nanotube showed the proton conductivity of 5×10−4 Scm−1 at intermediate temperature (⩽160°C), fully saturated humidification (relative humidity of 100%), and high vapor pressure (6atm) conditions. This conduction behavior in metal oxide nanotube is controlled by the liquid phase mediated charge transport (liquid-like mechanism). The proton conductor of 1D may have a potential not only for the fuel cell electrolytes operated at intermediate temperature conditions but also for various electrochemical devices. Furthermore, 1D proton conductor, such as TNT, might be used as the basic proton conductor to discuss the proton conductive mechanism. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The controls of proton transfer through membranes involve fundamental properties of chemical energy conversion in industrial devices as well as living systems. In particular, ion-exchange membranes are generally used as superior proton conductors for polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFC) due to the fluidic nature of water, although the cell operation above the boiling point (>100°C) has been considered to provide a higher efficiency and an easier humidity management. We show that biomembranes consisting of uracil and chitin phosphate have large anhydrous proton conductivities over a wide temperature range from room temperature to 160°C with sufficient thermal stabilities. Water-free conductivities exceeding 10−3 Scm−1 have been obtained in the elastic polymeric material, and the fuel cell employing the biomembrane as an electrolyte exhibited a stable current generation under non-humidified H2/O2 conditions at 160°C. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The control of proton transfer through membranes involves fundamental properties of chemical energy conversion in industrial devices as well as living systems. In particular, ion-exchange membranes are generally used as superior proton-conductors for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) because of the fluidic nature of water, although cell operation above water''s boiling point (>100°C) has been considered to provide higher efficiency and easier humidity management. We show that biomembranes consisting of uracil and chitin phosphate have high anhydrous proton conductivities over a wide temperature range, from room temperature to 160°C, with sufficient thermal stability. Water-free conductivities exceeding 10−3 S/cm have been obtained in the elastic polymeric material, and a fuel cell employing the biomembrane as an electrolyte exhibited stable current generation under non-humidified H2/O2 conditions at 160°C. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Fibrillization and aggregation of α-synuclein may play a critical role in neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s diseases. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector delivery of an α-synuclein ribozyme was tested for its silencing effect on degenerating nigrostriatal neurons in the MPP+ model of Parkinson’s disease. We designed α-synuclein ribozyme against human α-synuclein gene expression and constructed α-synuclein ribozymes-carrying rAAV vector (designated rAAV-SynRz). Co-transfection of rAAV-SynRz and rAAV-α-synuclein into HEK293 cells resulted in down-regulation of α-synuclein protein expression in vitro. Then, rAAV-SynRz was injected into the substantia nigra (SN) of MPP+-treated rats. Cell counts of TH-positive neurons in the SN revealed that rAAV-SynRz significantly protected TH-positive cells against apoptotic death, compared with those of rAAV-EGFP or no rAAV injected rats. Our results indicate that the use of rAAV-SynRz allowed the survival of higher number of TH-positive neurons in SN in the MPP+ model. Down-regulation of α-synuclein expression could be potentially a suitable target for gene therapy of Parkinson’s disease. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Large amounts of DNA-enriched biomaterials, such as salmon milts and shellfish gonads, are discarded as industrial waste around the world. We could convert the discarded DNA into a novel bio-matrix by the hybridization of DNA and metal ions, such as Al3+, Cr3+, Fe2+, Fe3+, Cu+, Cu2+, Zn2+, and Cd2+. These water-insoluble DNA-metal ion matrices could be created in various desirable forms, such as a gel, capsule, film, or fiber. DNA-Al3+ matrices were found to maintain a B-form DNA structure, which was the native double-stranded DNA structure in water. The DNA-Al3+ fiber showed flexibility with the molecular orientation in the direction of drawing. When a DNA-Cu2+ matrix was incubated in an aqueous hydroquinone or ascorbic acid solution, benzoquinone or dehydroascorbic acid was produced, respectively, by the oxidative effect of Cu2+ in the DNA-metal ion matrix. These results suggest that metal ions in the DNA-metal matrix maintained the oxidative function. The water-insoluble DNA-metal ion matrices may have a potential utility as a functional bio-material, such as an antibacterial, oxidative, bio-sensor, and ion conductive materials. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We have investigated a low production cost anhydrous proton conductor consisting of a composite of chitosan, one of the world''s discarded materials, and methanediphosphonic acid (MP) having a high proton exchange capacity. This chitosan–200wt.% MP composite material showed the high proton conductivity of 5×10−3 Scm−1 at 150°C under anhydrous conditions. Additionally, the proton conducting mechanism of the chitosan–MP composite material was due to proton transfer to the proton defect site without the assistance of diffusible vehicle molecules. The utilization of a biopolymer, such as chitosan, for PEMFC technologies is novel and challenging where biological products are usually considered as waste, non-hazardous, and environmentally benign. Especially, the low production cost of the biopolymer is an attractive feature. Anhydrous proton conducting biopolymer composite membranes may have potential not only for PEMFCs operated under anhydrous conditions, but also for bio-electrochemical devices including an implantable battery, bio-sensors, etc. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The development of anhydrous proton conducting membrane is important for the operation of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) at intermediate temperature (100–200°C). In this study, we have investigated the acid–base hybrid materials by mixing of strong phosphonic acid polymer of poly(vinylphosphonic acid) (PVPA) with the high proton-exchange capacity and organic base of heterocycle, such as imidazole (Im), pyrazole (Py), or 1-methylimidazole (MeIm). As a result, PVPA-heterocycle composite material showed the high proton conductivity of approximately 10−3 Scm−1 at 150°C under anhydrous condition. In particular, PVPA-89mol% Im composite material showed the highest proton conductivity of 7×10−3 Scm−1 at 150°C under anhydrous condition. Additionally, the fuel cell test of PVPA-89mol% Im composite material using a dry H2/O2 showed the power density of approximately 10mWcm−2 at 80°C under anhydrous conditions. These acid–base anhydrous proton conducting materials without the existence of water molecules might be possibly used for a polymer electrolyte membrane at intermediate temperature operations under anhydrous or extremely low humidity conditions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Anhydrous proton conducting material for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEFC) was prepared by the mixing of zwitterionic-type molecular solid 3-pyridinesulfonic acid (PS) and organic acid methylenediphosphonic acid (MP). As a result, PS molecule, which has sulfonic acid and pyridine group in its structure, showed the proton conductivity of 4×10−5 Scm−1 at 160 °C under anhydrous condition. Surprisingly, by the mixing of MP to PS material, the PS–MP composite material exhibited a conductivity of 2×10−3 Scm−1. Moreover, the conductivity of PS–MP composite material did not decrease under the heating at 160 °C for 50 h. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Recently, membranes with high anhydrous proton conducting have been attracted remarkable interest for the application to the polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEFC). In this paper, we have investigated the anhydrous proton conductor consisting of alginic acid (AA), one of the acidic biopolymers, and imidazole (Im). This AA–Im composite material showed the proton conductivity of 2×10-3Scm-1 at 130°C under anhydrous conditions. Additionally, these AA–Im composite materials have the highly mechanical property and thermal stability. Furthermore, the biological products, such as biopolymer, are cheap, non-hazardous, and environmentally benign. The proton conductive biopolymer composite material may have the potential for its superior ion conducting properties, in particular, under anhydrous (water-free) or extremely low humidity conditions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To elucidate the role of &aplha;-synuclein in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease, both human &aplha;-synuclein transgenic mice and targeted overexpression of human &aplha;-synuclein in rat substantia nigra using viral vector-based methods have been studied, however, little is known about the pathogenetic changes of dopaminergic neuron loss. Therefore, it is necessary to address whether the pathogenetic changes in brains with Parkinson's disease are recapitulated in these models. Here, we used the recombinant adeno-associated viral (rAAV) vector system for human &aplha;-synuclein gene transfer to rat substantia nigra and observed approximately 50% loss of dopaminergic neurons at 13 weeks after infection, which was comparably slower than the progression of neurodegeneration reported in other studies. In the slower progression of neurodegeneration, we identified several important features in common with the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease, such as phosphorylation of &aplha;-synuclein at Ser129 and activation of caspase-9. Both findings were also evident in cortical tissues overexpressing &aplha;-synuclein via rAAV. Our results indicate that overexpression of &aplha;-synuclein via rAAV apparently recapitulates several important features of brains with Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies, and thus &aplha;-synucleinopathy described here is likely to be an ideal model for the study of the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, a lot of attentions have been paid for a development of water-free polymer electrolyte membranes fuel cells (PEMFC) at intermediate temperatures (above 100 °C) because of many technological advantages of higher temperature operation. However, the proton conductivity of conventional polymer membranes under water-free condition is usually very low and the polymeric membranes are not stable at higher temperatures. So, the development of non-hydrous proton conducting membrane under water-free condition has been a state of the art issue in the advanced PEMFC technology. In this study, non-hydrous protonic conducting material was prepared by the mixing of acidic surfactant of mono-dodecylphosphate (MDP) and organic base of benzimidazole (BnIm). The proton conductivity and thermal stability of MDP–BnIm mixed material increased with the mixing ratio of BnIm. Maximum proton conductivity of MDP–BnIm mixed material (BnIm mixing ratio of 200 wt.%. vs. MDP) was found to be 1×10−3 S cm−1 at 150 °C under water-free condition. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The Ile-Lys-Val-Ala-Val (IKVAV) sequence derived from laminin-1 promotes cell adhesion, neurite outgrowth, and tumor growth and metastasis. Here, we examined amyloid formation of an IKVAV-containing peptide (LAM-L: AASIKVAVSADR, mouse laminin α1 chain 2097–2108). The LAM-L peptide was stained with Congo red and exhibited fibrils in electron microscopy with a characteristic cross-β X-ray diffraction pattern. Further, infrared spectra of LAM-L suggested a β-sheet structure. These results indicate that LAM-L forms amyloid-like fibrils. We also examined amyloid-like fibril formation of LAM-L analogs. The neurite outgrowth activity of the LAM-L analogs was closely related to their amyloid-like fibril formation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Describes the immobilization of double-stranded DNA onto porous glass beads through ultraviolet radiation in Tokyo, Japan. Removal of chemical compounds; Difficulty to reproduce DNA molecules in synthetic polymers; Utilization of modified DNA.

Objectives: Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration and fine‐needle biopsy (EUS‐FNA/FNB) is not fully established as a pathological sampling tool for gallbladder lesions due to limited evidence. We therefore aimed to clarify the effectiveness and safety of this procedure in a large‐population cohort. Methods: This study retrospectively evaluated the diagnostic yield of EUS‐FNA/FNB for accurately differentiating between benign and malignant gallbladder lesions. Puncture targets included the gallbladder mass, lymph node, and liver mass. Adverse events and factors associated with diagnostic accuracy were analyzed as well. Results: In 187 patients with gallbladder lesions undergoing EUS‐FNA/FNB, 18 benign lesions and 169 malignant lesions were identified. Overall sampling adequacy was 98% (184/187). The diagnostic accuracy of EUS‐FNA/FNB was 97% (182/187), sensitivity was 97% (164/169), and specificity was 100% (18/18). A single postprocedural complication (minor bleeding) was recorded in one patient. In the 169 cases of malignancy, 203 sites were punctured for pathological sampling of the primary mass (n = 94), lymph node (n = 79), and metastatic liver mass (n = 30). No significant difference was found for diagnostic accuracy among the puncture sites (P = 0.70). In cases having specimens obtained from the primary mass, the accuracy of those targeting liver invasion sites was significantly higher than that of other sites (98% vs. 83%, P < 0.01). Conclusion: EUS‐FNA/FNB demonstrated clinical usefulness and safety for the pathological diagnosis of gallbladder lesions, with high diagnostic yield and a low incidence of adverse events. Targeting the site of liver infiltration may improve the diagnostic rate of EUS‐FNA/FNB in the primary mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a 82-year-old woman with hepatic hilar carcinoma who had been treated using several metal stents 6 months previously was admitted with obstructive jaundice. It discusses that computed tomography imaging indicated stent obstruction and the endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography showed obstruction in the hepatic bile ducts and subsequent treatment provided to the patient.

However, if a transpapillary bile duct stent has previously been deployed, duodenal stents can become distorted by the bile duct stent. We herein describe technical tips for recanalization of a distorted duodenal metal stent using a novel fine-gauge electrocautery dilator (Medico's Hirata Inc., Osaka Japan) [5]. [Extracted from the article]

The article reports on the synthesis of a self-ordered, crystalline glass, mesoporous nanocomposite with high proton conductivity. Mesoporous inorganic materials have a pore size range of 2-50 nm and have several properties that may be beneficial for their use as possible solid-state electrolyte alternatives. Mesoporous materials as a proton conducting electrolyte for fuel cells have been reported. At the intermediate temperature region, proton conductivity decreases by the evaporation of water because the origin of proton conduction in mesoporous material is based on the physisorbed water in the pore.

Tract dilation is one of the most difficult stages of endoscopic ultrasound‐guided hepaticogastrostomy (EUS‐HGS), especially for beginners. To overcome this problem, we applied a special dedicated dilator. Herein, we retrospectively evaluate the safety and usefulness of a novel drill dilator in EUS‐HGS. This single‐center retrospective study included 20 consecutive patients who underwent EUS‐HGS with a novel drill dilator. The tip is 0.77 mm, and it becomes 7F at 3 cm from tip. The track is dilated to 7F by simple clockwise rotation. The technical success rate of both initial tract dilation and stent placement was 20/20 (100%). No cases required additional dilation such as balloon or electric cautery. In 13/20 cases (65.0%), EUS‐HGS was performed by beginner endoscopists. Median time required for dilation was 62.5 s (range, 30–144 s). Median procedure time was 13 min (range, 7–25 min). Early adverse events were two cases of mild fever. There was no bile leakage or bleeding. The novel drill dilator appears to be safe and useful for EUS‐HGS. As it is not necessary to press the device strongly, there is no pushback during dilation and the scope position is stable. These characteristics facilitate EUS‐HGS even for beginners. This device may enable the further development and increased dissemination of EUS intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background There are several types of pancreatic mass, so it is important to distinguish between them before treatment. Artificial intelligence (AI) is a mathematical technique that automates learning and recognition of data patterns. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of our AI model using endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) images of multiple types of pancreatic mass (pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma [PDAC], pancreatic adenosquamous carcinoma [PASC], acinar cell carcinoma [ACC], metastatic pancreatic tumor [MPT], neuroendocrine carcinoma [NEC], neuroendocrine tumor [NET], solid pseudopapillary neoplasm [SPN], chronic pancreatitis, and autoimmune pancreatitis [AIP]). Methods Patients who underwent EUS were included in this retrospective study. The included patients were divided into training, validation, and test cohorts. Using these cohorts, an AI model that can distinguish pancreatic carcinomas from noncarcinomatous pancreatic lesions was developed using a deep-learning architecture and the diagnostic performance of the AI model was evaluated. Results 22 000 images were generated from 933 patients. The area under the curve, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy (95 %CI) of the AI model for the diagnosis of pancreatic carcinomas in the test cohort were 0.90 (0.84–0.97), 0.94 (0.88–0.98), 0.82 (0.68–0.92), and 0.91 (0.85–0.95), respectively. The per-category sensitivities (95 %CI) of each disease were PDAC 0.96 (0.90–0.99), PASC 1.00 (0.05–1.00), ACC 1.00 (0.22–1.00), MPT 0.33 (0.01–0.91), NEC 1.00 (0.22–1.00), NET 0.93 (0.66–1.00), SPN 1.00 (0.22–1.00), chronic pancreatitis 0.78 (0.52–0.94), and AIP 0.73 (0.39–0.94). Conclusions Our developed AI model can distinguish pancreatic carcinomas from noncarcinomatous pancreatic lesions, but external validation is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A recombinant adeno-associated viral (rAAV) vector system has frequently been used for gene transfer to rat substantia nigra (SN), and we have previously demonstrated that this technique (rAAV-α-synuclein) induced α-synucleinopathy, which closely resembles pathogenic changes in Parkinson''s disease (PD). In the present study, the neuroprotective effect of parkin was examined by co-infection of rAAV-parkin with rAAV-α-synuclein into dopaminergic neurons in SN. At 13 weeks post-rAAV infection, α-synuclein overexpression induced dopaminergic neuron loss, while co-expression of parkin mitigated the α-synuclein toxicity. Moreover, α-synuclein-induced dopaminergic neuron loss consequently resulted in motor dysfunction, which was also mitigated by parkin. Taken together, our results indicate that parkin gene therapy is effective against α-synucleinopathy, suggesting its potential suitability for patients with PD. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

An abstract of the article "AAV-Parkin Gene Therapy for Alpha-Synucleinopathy as Parkinson's Diseased Model," by Hideki Mochizuki and colleagues is presented.