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Microvesicles or ectosomes represent a major type of extracellular vesicles that are formed by outward budding of the plasma membrane. Typically, they are bigger than exosomes but smaller than apoptotic vesicles, although they may overlap with both in size and content. Their release by cells is a means to dispose redundant, damaged, or dangerous material; to repair membrane lesions; and, primarily, to mediate intercellular communication. By participating in these vital activities, microvesicles may impact a wide array of cell processes and, consequently, changes in their concentration or components have been associated with several pathologies. Of note, microvesicles released by leukocytes, red blood cells, and platelets, which constitute the vast majority of plasma microvesicles, change under a plethora of diseases affecting not only the hematological, but also the nervous, cardiovascular, and urinary systems, among others. In fact, there is evidence that microvesicles released by blood cells are significant contributors towards pathophysiological states, having inflammatory and/or coagulation and/or immunomodulatory arms, by either promoting or inhibiting the relative disease phenotypes. Consequently, even though microvesicles are typically considered to have adverse links with disease prognosis, progression, or outcomes, not infrequently, they exert protective roles in the affected cells. Based on these functional relations, microvesicles might represent promising disease biomarkers with diagnostic, monitoring, and therapeutic applications, equally to the more thoroughly studied exosomes. In the current review, we provide a summary of the features of microvesicles released by blood cells and their potential implication in hematological and non-hematological diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Psoriasis is characterized by excessive growth and aberrant differentiation of epidermal keratinocytes due to persistent inflammation. However, the underlying mechanism that triggers immune activation in psoriasis is not clear. In this study, we explored excessive DNA as a potential trigger of psoriasis using cultured human keratinocytes and psoriatic skin tissues. We demonstrated that human genomic DNA fragments induced tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α expression, hyperproliferation and over‐expression of heparin‐binding epidermal‐like growth factor (HB‐EGF) and transforming growth factor (TGF)‐α, accompanied by defective expression of keratins 1 and 10 in cultured normal human epidermal keratinocytes, which have a similar phenotype to that of keratinocytes in psoriatic skin lesions. In psoriatic lesions, we found high levels of double‐stranded (ds)DNA fragments, accompanying keratinocytes expressing Ki‐67, HB‐EGF and TNF‐α. In addition, we showed that 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 inhibited genomic DNA fragment‐induced TNFA and interleukin‐1β (IFNB) expression in human keratinocytes, and an intact function of cathelicidin anti‐microbial peptide (CAMP) was required for this effect. These results suggest that excessive dsDNA fragments probably act as a risk factor for immune activation in psoriasis, and the active form of vitamin D can prevent genomic DNA‐mediated skin inflammation via CAMP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A spray coating process of magnetic powder composite material is proposed in this paper for planar inductors and transformers for small DC/DC converter. This is a low temperature (≤150 °C) process that is usable for ferrites and extensively other magnetic powders and flakes. A commercially available Ni-Cu-Zn spinel ferrite particles and epoxy resin composite is applied for a 3 x 3 mm2 planer spiral inductor whose coil has 1 μm-thick, line/space =56/9 μm, and 10 turns made on a Si substrate, and exhibited inductance enhancement from from 157 nH to 205 nH (30%) without any resistance increase, up to 5 MHz. Physical stress by the proposed spray coating process can be negligible, judging from the well increased inductance and low resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite universal administration of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents, patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are at high risk for presenting persistent anemia. Due to ambiguities in optimal hemoglobin targets and evidence of recombinant human erythropoietin (EPO)-related toxicity, an increase in blood transfusions has been observed in chronic renal disease over the past years. The probable effects of uremic plasma on the performance of stored red blood cells (RBCs) after transfusion have not been investigated.Study Design and Methods: Leukoreduced RBCs after short or long storage in CPD-SAGM (n = 5) were assessed for hemolysis, surface removal signaling, reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, and shape distortions before and after reconstitution with healthy (n = 10) or uremic plasma from ESRD patients (n = 20) for 24 hours at physiologic temperature, by using a previously reported in vitro model of transfusion.Results: Temperature and cell environment shifts from blood bag to plasma independently and in synergy affected the RBC physiology. Outcome measures at transfusion-simulating conditions might not be analogous to timing of storage lesion. The uremic plasma ameliorated the susceptibility of stored RBCs to hemolysis, phosphatidylserine externalization, and ROS generation after stimulation by oxidants, but negatively affected shape homeostasis versus healthy plasma. Creatinine, uric acid, and EPO levels had correlations with the performance of stored RBCs in ESRD plasma.Conclusion: Renal insufficiency and EPO supplementation likely affect the recovery of donor RBCs and the reactivity of RBCs after transfusion by exerting both toxic and cytoprotective influences on them. ESRD patients constitute a specific recipient group that deserves further examination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hemodiafiltration (HDF) is a renal replacement therapy that is based on the principles of diffusion and convection for the elimination of uremic toxins. A significant and increasing number of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients are treated with HDF, even in the absence of definite and conclusive survival and anemia treatment data. However, its effects on red blood cell (RBC) physiological features have not been examined in depth. In this study, ESRD patients under regular HDF or conventional hemodialysis (cHD) treatment were examined for RBC-related parameters, including anemia, hemolysis, cell shape, redox status, removal signaling, membrane protein composition, and microvesiculation, in repeated paired measurements accomplished before and right after each dialysis session. The HDF group was characterized by better redox potential and suppressed exovesiculation of blood cells compared with the cHD group pre-dialysis. However, HDF was associated with a temporary but acute, oxidative-stress-driven increase in hemolysis, RBC removal signaling, and stomatocytosis, probably associated with the effective clearance of dialyzable natural antioxidant components, including uric acid, from the uremic plasma. The nature of these adverse short-term effects of HDF on post-dialysis plasma and RBCs strongly suggests the use of a parallel antioxidant therapy during the HDF session. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Modified, bioreactive red blood cells ( RBCs) and RBC-derived microvesicles (MVs) likely contribute to the hematological and cardiovascular complications in end-stage renal disease ( ESRD). This study assesses the physiological profile of RBCs in patients with ESRD receiving standard or high doses of recombinant human erythropoietin (rh EPO). Method Blood samples from twenty-eight patients under sustained hemodialysis, responsive, or not to standard rh EPO administration were examined for RBC morphology, fragility, hemolysis, redox status, removal signaling, membrane protein composition, and microvesiculation before and after dialysis. Acute effects of uremic plasma on RBC features were examined in vitro through reconstitution experiments. Results Overall, the ESRD RBCs were characterized by pathological levels of shape distortions, surface removal signaling, and membrane exovesiculation, but reduced fragility compared to healthy RBCs. Irreversible transformation of RBCs was found to be a function of baseline Hb concentration. The more toxic uremic context in non-responsive patients compared to rh EPO responders was blunted in part by the antioxidant, antihemolytic, and anti-apoptotic effects of high rh EPO doses, and probably, of serum uric acid. A selective lower expression of RBC membrane in complement regulators ( CD59, clusterin) and of CD47 'marker-of-self' was detected in non-responders and responders, respectively. Evidence for different short-term dialysis effects and probably for a different erythrocyte vesiculation mechanism in rh EPO responsive compared to non-responsive patients was also revealed. Conclusion Deregulation of RBC homeostasis might involve diverse molecular pathways driving erythrocyte signaling and removal in rh EPO non-responders compared to responsive patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2014, a team of high school students and teachers measured individual exposure doses using D-Shuttle dosimeters. In total, 216 students and teachers participated in the project, with the cooperation of 12 high schools in Japan (six from Fukushima Prefecture), four from France, eight from Poland, and two from Belarus. The participants wore the dosimeters for 2 weeks and recorded their locations in diary charts. The distribution of annual exposure doses for each school and region, estimated from the measured results, overlapped. It was concluded that the external exposure of high school students in Fukushima Prefecture was not markedly higher compared with that of students from other regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute systemic vasculitis of childhood that does not have a known cause or aetiology. The epidemiological features (existence of epidemics, community outbreaks and seasonality), unique age distribution and clinical symptoms and signs of KD suggest that the disease is caused by one or more infectious environmental triggers. However, KD is not transmitted person-to-person and does not occur in clusters within households, schools or nurseries. KD is a self-limited illness that is not associated with the production of autoantibodies or the deposition of immune complexes, and it rarely recurs. Regarding the underlying pathophysiology of KD, innate immune activity (the inflammasome) is believed to play a role in the development of KD vasculitis, based on the results of studies with animal models and the clinical and laboratory findings of KD patients. Animal studies have demonstrated that innate immune pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) can cause vasculitis independently of acquired immunity and have provided valuable insights regarding the underlying mechanisms of this phenomenon. To validate this concept, we recently searched for KD-specific PAMPs and identified such molecules with high specificity and sensitivity. These molecules have structures similar to those of microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs), as shown by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. We propose herein that KD is an innate immune disorder resulting from the exposure of a genetically predisposed individual to microbe-derived innate immune stimulants and that it is not a typical infectious disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We are conducting the development of a transition edge sensor (TES) microcalorimeter system for energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), performed using a scanning-transmission electron microscope (STEM). The operating temperature of the TES microcalorimeter was maintained using a compact dry $$^{3}$$ He- $$^{4}$$ He dilution refrigerator. This was pre-cooled by a remote helium cooling loop system and a Gifford-McMahon cooler. These conditions allowed for high-resolution STEM imaging to be achieved. A single-pixel TES microcalorimeter with a polycapillary optic was selected to demonstrate the analytical operation of the EDS system in the STEM. For a Ti-It-Pt sample, an X-ray energy resolution of 8.6 eV full-width at half maximum (FWHM) was obtained at Ir M $$_{\alpha 1}$$ , Pt M $$_{\alpha 1}$$ , and Ir M $$_{\beta }$$ . Using an electron device sample, element distribution maps of Si, Ti, and W were obtained using a Si K $$_{\alpha 1}$$ X-ray energy resolution of 9.7 eV FWHM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies have shown that baseline hematologic characteristics concerning or influencing red blood cell (RBC) properties might affect storage lesion development in individual donors. This study was conducted to evaluate whether variation in hemolysis, microparticle accumulation, phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure, and other storage lesion-associated variables might be a function of the prestorage hematologic and biologic profiles of the donor.Study Design and Methods: Ten eligible, regular blood donors were paired and studied before donation (fresh blood) and during storage of RBCs in standard blood banking conditions. Plasma and cellular characteristics and modifications were evaluated by standard laboratory and biochemical or biologic analyses as well as by statistical and network analysis tools.Results: Nitrate/nitrite and other bioactive factors exhibited high interdonor variability, which further increased during storage in a donor-specific manner. Storage lesion evaluators, including RBC fragility and PS exposure, fluctuated throughout the storage period in proportion to their values in fresh blood. Donors' levels of phosphatidylserine exposure and hemoglobin F correlated with stored cells' mean cell (RBC) Hb concentration, oxidative stress markers, and cellular fragility.Discussion: Storage lesion indicators change in an orderly fashion, namely, by following donor-related prestorage attributes. These correlations are illustrated for the first time in "prestorage versus storage" biologic networks, which might help determine the best candidates for in vivo biomarkers of storage quality and provide deeper insight into the apparently complex donor variation effect on the RBC storage lesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mars Express (MEX) Ion Mass Analyser (IMA) found that the detection rate of the ring-like distribution of protons in the solar wind outside of the bow shock to be quite different between Mars orbital summer (around perihelion) and orbital winter (around aphelion) for four Martian years, while the north–south asymmetry is much smaller than the perihelion–aphelion difference. Further analyses using eight years of MEX/IMA solar wind data between 2005 and 2012 has revealed that the detection frequency of the pick-up ions originating from newly ionized exospheric hydrogen with certain flux strongly correlates with the Sun–Mars distance, which changes approximately every two years. Variation due to the solar cycle phase is not distinguishable partly because this effect is masked by the seasonal variation under the MEX capability of plasma measurements. This finding indicates that the variation in solar UV has a major effect on the formation of the pick-up ions, but this is not the only controlling factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oxidative stress orchestrates a significant part of the red blood cell (RBC) storage lesion. Considering the tremendous interdonor variability observed in the "storability," namely, the capacity of RBCs to sustain the storage lesion, this study aimed at the elucidation of donor-specific factors that affect the redox homeostasis during the storage of RBCs in standard systems.Study Design and Methods: The hematologic profile of regular blood donors (n = 78) was evaluated by biochemical analysis of 48 different variables, including in vivo hemolysis and plasma oxidant and antioxidant factors and statistical analysis of the results. The possible effect of the uric acid (UA) variable on RBC storability was investigated in leukoreduced CPD/SAGM RBC units (n = 8) collected from donors exhibiting high or low prestorage levels of UA, throughout the storage period.Results: Among the hematologic variables examined in vivo, cluster analysis grouped the donors according to their serum UA levels. Plasma antioxidant capacity, iron indexes, and protein carbonylation represented covariants of UA factor. RBCs prepared by low- or high-UA donors exhibited significant differences between them in spheroechinocytosis, supernatant antioxidant activity, and other RBC storage lesion-associated variables.Conclusion: UA exhibits a storability biomarker potential. Intrinsic variability in plasma UA levels might be related to the interdonor variability observed in the storage capacity of RBCs. A model for the antioxidant effect of UA during the RBC storage is currently proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Emergency medical technicians in Japan have experienced difficulties in identifying hospitals that will accept patients with severe finger injuries. We developed and managed a system named Interactive Teletriage using mobile phone photos to aid efficient patient transportation. The aim of this study was to investigate features related to the transportation of patients with severe finger injuries and to evaluate the feasibility of this system. Materials and methods: We prospectively analysed data from the medical association of Aichi Prefecture and the Nagoya City Fire Department in Japan. We investigated features related to the transportation of 474 patients with severe finger injuries in Nagoya from 2010 to 2013: 100 in 2010, 134 in 2011, 125 in 2012, and 115 in 2013. We began using Teletriage in August 2011 and compared the periods before and after its implementation. Results: The time of injury showed two different peaks from 09:00 to 11:00 h and at 13:00 h. The number of patients injured during each weekday was generally the same, while cases on Saturdays and Sundays reflected 70% and 47% of the weekday average, respectively. Of the 474 patients, 395 (83%) were accepted to hospitals after 3 or fewer requests for admission: 160 of 202 (79.2%) before and 235 of 272 (86.4%) after Teletriage, constituting a significant increase (p = 0.039). Furthermore, the number of patients who required 4 or more requests significantly decreased after implementation of Teletriage (p = 0.039): 42 patients (20.8%) before and 37 (13.6%) after Teletriage. Our data showed that as the number of requests until final determination increased, the transportation period increased. Furthermore, the mean transportation period significantly decreased from 22.3 min before to 18.1 min after Teletriage (p = 0.021). As the number of requests until final determination increased, the proportion of patients transported to Level I and II hospitals decreased; conversely, the proportion of patients transported to Level III, IV, and V hospitals increased. Conclusions: Our results indicated that the implementation of Teletriage has the potential to ease the problem of emergency medical transportation for those with severe finger injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microstructure of the heat affected zone after welding was investigated in Mod.9Cr–1Mo steel, using TEM and STEM-EDX. The microstructure of thin foil was observed at the fusion line, and at the positions of 0.5 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.5 mm, 3.0 mm and 3.5 mm to the base metal side of the fusion line. Martensite structure with very fine lath and high dislocation density was confirmed at all positions. Twins with a twin plane of (112) were locally observed at all positions. Elemental mapping was obtained for all positions by means of STEM-EDX. Inclusions of mainly Si were formed at the fusion line but not at the other positions. No precipitates could be detected at the fusion line or at the position of 0.5 mm. On the other hand, MX particles were observed at the positions of 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.5 mm, 3.0 mm and 3.5 mm even after welding. M 23 C 6 particles were also confirmed at the positions of 2.0 mm, 2.5 mm, 3.0 mm and 3.5 mm. Very fine equiaxed grains were locally observed at the positions of 2.0 mm and 2.5 mm. The Cr content of the equiaxed grains was about 12 mass%, although the martensite area included about 8 mass% Cr. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entecavir ( ETV) is reported to result in suppression of hepatitis B virus DNA ( HBV DNA) replication with minimal drug resistance. However, information on the long-term effect of such therapy on serum hepatitis B surface antigen ( HBs Ag) level and elimination of HBs Ag is not available. ETV therapy was started in 553 nucleos(t)ide-naïve patients with chronic hepatitis B infection ( HBe Ag positive: 45%) in our hospital. Serum HBs Ag levels were measured serially by the Architect assay. The median baseline HBs Ag was 2180 IU/mL (0.12-243 000 IU/mL), and median follow-up period was 3.0 years, with 529, 475, 355, 247 and 163 patients followed-up for 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 years, respectively. At year 5, the mean log HBs Ag decline from baseline was −0.48 log IU/mL, and the cumulative HBs Ag clearance rate was 3.5%. Multivariate analysis identified HBV DNA level at baseline (<3.0 log copies IU/mL, odd ratio = 10.2; 95% confidence interval = 1.87-55.5, P = 0.007) and HBsAg level (<500 IU/mL, odd ratio = 29.4; 95% confidence interval = 2.80-333, P = 0.005) as independent predictors of HBs Ag seroclearance. These results indicate that although serum HBs Ag level declines gradually during ETV therapy, HBs Ag seroclearance remains a rare event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A phase-space distribution function of the steady state in galaxy models that admits regular orbits overall in the phase space can be represented by a function of three action variables. This type of distribution function in Galactic models is often constructed theoretically for comparison of the Galactic models with observational data as a test of the models. On the other hand, observations give Cartesian phase-space coordinates of stars. Therefore, it is necessary to relate action variables and Cartesian coordinates in investigating whether the distribution function constructed in galaxy models can explain observational data. Generating functions are very useful in practice for this purpose, because calculations of relations between action variables and Cartesian coordinates by generating functions do not require a lot of computational time or computer memory in comparison with direct numerical integration calculations of stellar orbits. Here, we propose a new method called a torus-fitting method, by which a generating function is derived numerically for models of the Galactic potential in which almost all orbits are regular. We confirmed that the torus-fitting method can be applied to major orbit families (box and loop orbits) in some two-dimensional potentials. Furthermore, the torus-fitting method is still applicable to resonant orbit families, besides major orbit families. Hence, the torus-fitting method is useful for analysing real Galactic systems in which a lot of resonant orbit families might exist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experimental loss of occlusal support caused by the extraction or grinding of molar teeth has been reported to foment the impairment of learning and memory in laboratory animals. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of occlusal reconstruction after long-term loss of molars on spatial memory by using 8-arm radial maze and by assessing histopathological changes of neuron density in the hippocampus. Experimental dentures were inserted into the oral cavities of molarless rats to recover the occlusal support. Age-matched groups of control, molarless and denture-wearing rats were trained to perform the maze tasks. The difference of the error incidence in the maze task was evaluated between three groups. The difference of neuron density between three groups was also evaluated at the end of the maze task. Serum corticosterone levels were also measured to estimate the chronic stress, which could be caused by extraction, insertion of the experimental denture or any experimental procedure. The error incidence in the denture-wearing group was significantly higher than that of the control group, but significantly lower than that of the molarless group. Significant differences of neuron density were observed between three groups in each of the hippocampal CA1, CA3 and DG subfields. No significant difference of the serum corticosterone levels between three groups could be observed. From the results of this study, it was suggested that the recovery of occlusal support would bring amelioration of cognitive impairment concomitant with long period loss of molars in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim of this study was to quantitatively evaluate the adaptation of the denture base to the mucosa using a non-setting pressure-indicating paste and to examine the relationship between quality of fit and the need for denture relining. A total of 123 dentures from 70 partially edentulous patients were studied. Examination paste extruded from the tip of the 18-G needle was applied to those denture surfaces contacting the alveolar crest. The denture was manually positioned with all clasps engaged on abutment teeth, and adaptation was assessed through paste distribution. Multiple logistic regression was used to analyse variables associated with diagnosing the need for a denture reline, producing odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. The spread width was inversely proportional to the gap between the denture and mucosa. Regression analysis revealed statistically significant associations between the need for a denture reline and both the paste spread width and the duration of denture use. According to ROC curve analysis of the 'reline' and 'non-reline' groups, the need for a denture reline was indicated at a paste spread width of 2·0 mm or less. At this 2·0-mm threshold, the sensitivity was 85·1% and the specificity was 75·0%. The fit of removable denture bases was quantitatively evaluated by measuring the spread width of non-setting pressure-indicating paste extruded onto denture fit surfaces. The results suggest that the paste spread width is a useful parameter for discriminating the need for a denture reline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We developed a dry dilution refrigerator for a TES microcalorimeter for a TEM–EDS. [•] A GM cryocooler was used as a pre-cooler for the dilution refrigerator. [•] The dilution refrigerator was separated from the GM cryocooler in a split system. [•] The TES microcalorimeter was operated without disruption to the TEM performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Chronic kidney disease is a risk factor for cardiovascular mortality. This study uncovers pieces of hematological and erythrocyte protein variability observed in end stage renal disease (ESRD) in relation to disease progression/duration and mortality. Using a variety of experimental approaches, erythropoietin/dialysis-treated patients were compared to healthy individuals and had been followed for 36months. During that period, half of the patients died from cardiovascular diseases. The high levels of uremic toxins in those patients were associated with damaged erythrocytes, bad tolerance and poor response to hemodialysis therapy. The postmortem study revealed significant variation in alkaline phosphatase, duration of dialysis, erythrocyte transformation and intracellular hemoglobin concentration compared to the survived patients. The erythrocyte proteins showed substantial remodeling characteristic of pathologic regulation of cell hydration and susceptibility to the dialysis-induced oxidation defects. According to the follow-up study, duration of hemodialysis was associated with a trend towards increased intracellular hemoglobin concentration, membrane expression of glucose transporter-1 and stomatin as well as lower levels of circulating stomatocytes. The uremic index variation in long survived patients is accurately reflected in plasma and erythrocyte oxidative stress modifications. The ESRD patients exhibit impressive compensatory responses to the chronic challenges of the uremic milieu. Biological significance: This study demonstrates novel blood modifications probably associated with the duration of erythropoietin/hemodialysis treatment, disease progression and cardiovascular mortality in end stage renal disease. The observed variability adds new pieces to the erythrocyte pathophysiology puzzle in end stage renal disease and suggests novel hematologic and proteomic factors for consideration in future large scale studies on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality candidate biomarkers in uremic patients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Composition and temperature dependence of the crystal structure of IrTi with Ti content of 46–61 at.% was investigated using high-temperature X-ray diffraction analysis. Single-point energy calculations and geometry optimization were carried out based on first-principles calculations to understand the phase stability and transformation. Using X-ray diffraction analyses, a CsCl-type B2 structure was found in Ir-61 at.% Ti at room temperature; on the other hand, an orthorhombic structure in the alloys with Ti content below 58 at.%. The atomic positions obtained through first-principles calculations suggested a distorted L10 structure refined as a new orthorhombic (Cmmm #65) structure. The orthorhombic structure changed to almost a tetragonal structure with rising temperature and finally to a distorted B2 structure above 873 K in Ir-46–58Ti alloys. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Martensitic transformation behavior and shape memory properties of Ti-50at%Pt were investigated using high-temperature X-ray diffractometry and loading–unloading compression tests. The structure of the parent and martensite phases was identified as B2 and B19, respectively. Changes in the lattice parameters of the martensite phase were investigated as a function of temperature. Applying the lattice parameter changes, the volume strain between B19 and B2 phases at 1473 K was estimated at 2.5%. The compression test was carried out at room temperature and at 1123 K. Strain was precisely measured using a strain gage for the test at room temperature and a CCD camera for the test at 1123 K. Strain recovery was observed during unloading at room temperature and at 1123 K, which was below the martensite temperature. Shape recovery was investigated for the samples tested at room temperature and at 1123 K by heating at 1523 K for 1 h. It was found that the strain recovery rate was 30–60% for the samples tested at room temperature and about 11% for the samples tested at 1123 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice ( Oryza sativa cv. Koshihikari) seedlings were grown in a sandy dune soil in pots with a basal dressing of N (0.5 g N), P and K. Two N treatments were applied, a +N treatment in which a top dressing of 15N-labeled 0.5 g N was supplied on July 20 and a −N treatment in which no additional fertilizer was supplied. During the grain-filling stage from August 6 to 13, plants were subjected to one of three temperature treatments; controlled low temperature, LT (day/night 28/23 °C), controlled high temperature, HT (35/30 °C) and uncontrolled glasshouse temperature, UT (day/night averages, 38/26 °C). All plants were then exposed to 13CO2 for 1 h on August 11 in a growth chamber at 25 °C. On August 13, all plants were harvested and the 13C and 15N abundances and starch and sugar concentrations in the ears, shoots and roots were determined. The 13C content of the ear was lower in UT than in LT irrespective of the +N or −N treatment. The translocation of 15N to the ears was also slightly depressed in UT compared with LT. Under high-temperature conditions (HT and UT), the starch content per plant was reduced for −N, but for +N, it was not significantly different among the temperature treatments. A high accumulation of sucrose was observed in all plant parts under UT conditions. It is suggested that extreme high day temperatures during the grain-filling period may reduce starch synthesis in the grains and, especially so under N-deficient conditions. High temperatures also induce an accumulation of sucrose and a decrease in carbon and nitrogen transport from the shoots to the ears via the phloem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To establish a system for screening and identification of essential genes from the pathogenic haploid yeast Candida glabrata by using temperature-sensitive (ts) mutants. Methods and Results: Based on the general concepts that ts mutations are generated within essential genes in the genome by virtue of point mutation, we attempted to establish a system where essential genes were screened and identified from the C. glabrata genomic DNA library by the complementation of ts point mutations. By using this system, we successfully identified a putative TEM1 homologue as an essential gene by the complementation of a point mutation (- AT-/- AT- corresponding to Asp-143/Asn substitution) within its coding region in a ts mutant, T-3. Conclusions: We were able to establish a system for screening and identification of the essential genes, such as the TEM1 homologue, from the pathogenic yeast C. glabrata, as the gene that complements ts mutation. Significance and Impact of the Study: The identification of essential genes, by using the present system, may provide novel potential antifungal targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This work is a contribution to a large project, aimed at the development of an advanced environmental assessment modelling system to be used in Japan. The modelling system here considered consisted of the RAMS and HYPACT coupled models. The RAMS code was modified to properly simulate local scale phenomena using a fine mesh size of 250 m. In this direction, the main aim here was to investigate the effect of the choice of the turbulence closure scheme on the dispersion of pollutants. Our modified version of the RAMS/HYPACT model chain was validated using field experiments which were carried out by the Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute (JAERI) in the area of Mt. Tsukuba (Japan). The mean flow, turbulence and concentration fields obtained using two alternative turbulence closure schemes are compared. A discussion on the different performances of the turbulence closures is presented and the influence of the closure schemes over the plume dispersion is investigated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In order to elucidate the elctrochemical Li ion storage properties of metallic and semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), we have attempted several methods to obtain the sufficient amount of the two kinds of SWCNTs for the use of the electrochemical measurements. It was found by the electrochemical charge–discharge measurements that the reversible Li ion storage capacity of the metallic SWCNTs is about 5 times greater than that of the semiconducting SWCNTs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Identifying genetic pathways that cooperate in leukemogenesis facilitates our understanding of the molecular mechanisms at play. Interferon consensus sequence-binding protein (ICSBP) is a tumor suppressor, whose downregulation cooperates with BCR-ABL and NUP98-TOP1 gene products to accelerate leukemia induction in mouse models. Similarly, Meis1 synergizes with HoxA9 or NUP98-HOX (but not NUP98-TOP1) fusion genes to promote the early onset of leukemia. To investigate whether Icsbp deficiency interacts with Meis1 or its family member Meis3, we transplanted Icsbp−/− bone marrow (BM) cells after transduction with Meis1 or Meis3 retroviral vectors. Here, we show that enforced expression of Meis1 or Meis3 in Icsbp−/− BM cells induces a fatal, invasive myeloproliferative disease. Secondary mutations, such as activation of Mn1, led to the progression to acute myeloid leukemia in a few mice. Interestingly, expression of endogenous Meis1 and Meis3 mRNAs was repressed in the granulocytic progenitor population of Icsbp−/− mice. These results reveal a novel collaboration between Icsbp deficiency and Meis1/Meis3 in the acceleration of chronic myeloid leukemia-like disease.Oncogene (2008) 27, 3865–3869; doi:10.1038/sj.onc.1211043; published online 28 January 2008 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Crystallography and morphology of various interfaces in Ti–Ni, Ti–Pd and Ni–Mn–Ga shape memory alloys are investigated by transmission electron microscopy. Neither ledge nor step structures are recognized at the irrational interface of the <011>B19′ type II twin in Ti–Ni martensite and the <121>B19 type II twin in Ti–Pd martensite in the two dimensional lattice image from the η 1 direction. The combination of plate variants of the 10 and the 14M Ni–Mn–Ga martensites is subsequently discussed. There are four plate variants commonly designated as A, B, C and D, and three fundamental plate combinations can be identified in a given plate group, namely A: B (C: D) of type II, A: C (B: D) of type I and A: D (B: C) of compound twins in both the martensites. An interesting phenomenon is the migration of A: D boundary in the 10M martensite during the observation. Finally, we present the atomic structures of {114}B2 Σ9 boundary in the B2 parent phase of Ti–Ni. The influence of heat treatment atmosphere on the boundary structures is also discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Conventional synchrotron radiation sources enable the structure of matter to be studied at near-atomic spatial resolution and picosecond temporal resolution. Free-electron lasers promise to extend this down to femtosecond timescales. The process by which free-electron lasers amplify synchrotron light—known as self-amplified spontaneous emission—is only partially temporally coherent, but this can be improved by seeding it with an external laser. Here we explore the use of seed light produced by high-order harmonic generation in a gas, covering wavelengths from the ultraviolet to soft X-rays. Using the SPring-8 Compact SASE Source test accelerator, we demonstrate an increase of three orders of magnitude in the intensity of the fundamental radiation at 160 nm, halving of the free-electron laser saturation length, and the generation of nonlinear harmonics at 54 nm and 32 nm. The low seed level used in this demonstration suggests that nonlinear harmonic schemes should enable the generation of fully coherent soft X-rays at wavelengths down to the so-called ‘water window’, vital for the study of biological samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction measurement of solid C60 under high pressure up to about 26GPa was performed using He gas as pressure transmitting medium. This is the first study to precisely investigate the structural property of the He intercalated C60 under high pressure in a few tens GPa range. It was found that the He intercalated C60 solid is much less compressible than the pure C60 solid. The bulk modulus of the He intercalated C60 solid is determined to be B 0 =35.1 (6.0) GPa. The effect of hydrostaticity on the deformations of unit cell and C60 molecule is also discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) binds to two different types of serine/threonine kinase receptors termed type II (TβR-II) and type I (TβR-I). TGF-β is unable to bind to TβR-I in the absence of TβR-II, and initiates receptor assembly by binding with high affinity to TβR-II. Previous structural analysis of the TGF-β3–TβR-II complex has suggested that two charged amino acid residues, D55 and E142 of TβR-II, are binding sites of TGF-β. In the present study, we have shown that mutations of the amino-acid residues, D55 and E142 of TβR-II, resulted in loss of TGF-β binding and downstream signaling activity. Moreover, we found that 3,5,7,2′,4′-pentahydroxyflavone (Morin) inhibits TGF-β binding to TβR-II, and suppresses phosphorylation of Smad2 and expression of a TGF-β target gene Smad7 induced by TGF-β. Our findings may thus provide useful information for designing therapeutic agents for various diseases induced by TGF-β, including advanced cancers.Oncogene (2007) 26, 3311–3320. doi:10.1038/sj.onc.1210123; published online 4 December 2006 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) with Z-contrast is applied to characterize the antiphase boundary (APB) of the B2 structure in a rapidly solidified TiPd melt-spun compound. The atomic shift associated with the R = (1/2)a0 〈111〉 type displacement vector is directly observed at the boundary. A microstructure modification of the melt-spun compound with the cooling rate during solidification is also described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) on vertical bone regeneration of edentulous ridge. Bilateral upper first and second molars of 8-week-old Wistar rats were extracted and the ridges were allowed to heal for 3 weeks. Compressed poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) copolymer/gelatin sponge (PGS) was used as a carrier of rhBMP-2. PGS alone (control group) or PGS with 5 μg rhBMP-2 (test group) was implanted at the top part of alveolar ridge. The sham group received no implantation. The rats were killed at 1, 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks after implantation and examined histologically and histomorphometrically. In the test group, significant bone augmentation was evident on the alveolar ridge throughout the experimental period. Histomorphometric analysis revealed greater tissue volume and height of alveolar bone in the test group compared with the control and sham groups ( P < 0·05) from 4 weeks onward and the augmented tissues (5 mm3 in tissue volume and 1·5 mm in bone height) were maintained until 12 weeks. Osteoblast surface increased at 2 and 4 weeks and osteoid thickness reached a peak (25 μm) at 2 weeks. Dynamic variables, which represented calcification, were higher in the test group than the control and sham groups at 4 and 8 weeks ( P < 0·05). These results suggest that use of rhBMP-2/PGS may achieve vertical bone augmentation, and stabilizes denture prosthesis or makes up for inadequate bone mass for implant prosthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Mesoscale models are often used to reproduce the atmospheric processes at relatively high resolutions, both for meteorological and pollutant dispersion studies and applications. Particularly in non-homogeneous conditions, a proper description of turbulent transport is a fundamental aspect. In this work, we compare two analogous 1.5-order turbulence schemes implemented in RAMS, mainly differing in the form of the turbulent kinetic energy dynamical equation (1D or 3D) and in the relationships linking the closure quantities, such as diffusion coefficients and dissipation terms. We present results from simulations performed in a simple, idealized case, along with results related to two field campaigns carried on in the Tsukuba region (Japan) in 1989 and 1990. Both turbulence schemes are able to well reproduce the mean flow, but different performances are related to the turbulence field. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The present study investigated behavioural responses of naïve rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss, lake charr Salvelinus namaycush, lake whitefish Coregonus clupeaformis and goldfish Carassius auratus to food extracts as well as selected amino acids (at 10−6 M) and related chemicals in a flow-through behaviour trough. Cysteine, the most potent olfactory stimulating amino acid determined electrophysiologically, enhanced locomotor activity, an initial arousal behaviour, in all species examined, in exactly the same fashion as did food extracts. The increased locomotor activity was followed by distinct species-specific search behavioural patterns: 1) bottom searching in rainbow trout; 2) surfacing and jumping in lake charr; 3) exploratory behaviour against the trough window in lake whitefish; 4) gravel pecking in goldfish. Olfactory-stimulating neutral amino acids alanine and serine and gustatory-stimulating imino acid proline were effective, to varying degrees, in eliciting feeding behaviour. Arginine and glutamate suppressed the locomotor activity in rainbow trout, but triggered feeding behaviour in the other species. Agmatine, a decarboxylated arginine, stimulated feeding behaviour in all species tested, except rainbow trout. The observed behavioural responses were in close accordance with the electrophysiological threshold and specificity. Together, the present data demonstrate that single amino acids and closely related chemicals initiate feeding behaviour primarily by olfaction, and interchangeably and complemented by gustation, in naive fishes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Rho activator ECT2 functions as a key regulator in cytokinesis. ECT2 is phosphorylated during G2/M phase, but the physiological significance of this event is not well known. In this study, we show that phosphorylation of ECT2 at threonine-341 (T341) affects the autoregulatory mechanism of ECT2. In G2/M phase, ECT2 was phosphorylated at T341 most likely by Cyclin B/Cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (Cdk1), and then dephosphorylated before cytokinesis. Depletion of ECT2 by RNA interference (RNAi) efficiently induced multinucleate cells. Expression of the phospho-deficient mutant of ECT2 at T341 suppressed the multinucleation induced by RNAi to ECT2, indicating that ECT2 is biologically active even when it is not phosphorylated at T341. However, the phospho-mimic mutation at T341 weakly stimulates the catalytic activity of ECT2 as detected by serum response element reporter gene assays. As T341 is located at the hinge region of the N-terminal regulatory domain and C-terminal catalytic domain, phosphorylation of T341 may help accessing downstream signaling molecules to further activate ECT2. We found that the phospho-mimic mutation T341D increases binding with itself or the N-terminal half of ECT2. These results suggest a conformational change of ECT2 upon phosphorylation at T341. Therefore, ECT2 activity might be regulated by the phosphorylation status of T341. We propose that T341 phosphorylation by Cyclin B/Cdk1 could be a trigger for further activation of ECT2.Oncogene (2006) 25, 566–578. doi:10.1038/sj.onc.1209078; published online 19 September 2005 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The structural property of a C60-peapod sample under high pressure up to 25GPa was investigated by in situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction measurements using a diamond anvil cell. It was observed that the C60–C60 distance in a carbon nanotube decreases with pressure from 0.956nm at 0.1MPa down to 0.845nm at 25GPa. It was also found that the distance value upon complete release of the pressure after compression remained at a value lower than its initial value. These experimental results indicate the polymerization of C60 molecules in a carbon nanotube. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: ESR measurements were carried out for α-(BEDT-TTF)2PF6 and ζ-(BEDT-TTF)2PF6(THF). The temperature dependences of the spin susceptibility of the two salts are very similar to each other and seem to behave as typical paramagnetic insulators with low-dimensional antiferromagnetic interaction. The absolute values of the macroscopic antiferromagnetic interaction, J/k B, are also very close. However, there are obvious differences in their ground states and microscopic behaviors. ζ-(BEDT-TTF)2PF6(THF) undergoes an antiferromagnetic transition at around 5K., while α-(BEDT-TTF)2PF6 shows no long-range magnetic ordering down to 2K. The temperature dependent behaviors of the ESR linewidth, ΔH PP, are quite different: The ΔH PP of ζ-(BEDT-TTF)2PF6(THF) is almost temperature independent in the paramagnetic region and shows an abrupt increase below about 30K, while the ΔH PP of ζ-(BEDT-TTF)2PF6 gradually decreases as the temperature decreases. The low temperature electronic states of these salts are discussed from the microscopic point of view. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

IL-6/STAT-3 signals play key roles in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It is known thatLactobacillus caseistrain Shirota (LcS) improves inflammatory disorders. This study aimed to elucidate the effect of LcS on murine chronic IBD and to clarify the mechanism. We focused the inhibitory effect of LcS on the production of IL-6 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated large intestinal lamina propria mononuclear cells (LI-LPMC) isolated from mice with chronic colitis and in RAW264·7 cellsin vitro. We also determinedin vivothe effect of LcS on murine chronic IBD models induced with dextran sodium sulphate and SAMP1/Yit mice. Finally, we examined the cellular determinants of LcS for the down-regulation of IL-6 secretion by LI-LPMC, RAW264·7 cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) derived from patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). LcS, but not other strains ofLactobacillus, inhibited the production of IL-6 in LPS-stimulated LI-LPMC and RAW264·7 cells, down-regulating the nuclear translocation of NF-κB. The LcS-diet-improved murine chronic colitis is associated with the reduction of IL-6 synthesis by LI-LPMC. LcS also improved chronic ileitis in SAMP1/Yit mice. The release of IL-6in vitroin LPS-stimulated LI-LPMC, RAW 264·7 cells and UC-PBMC was inhibited by a polysaccharide-peptidoglycan complex (PSPG) derived from LcS. This probiotic-induced improvement in murine chronic inflammatory bowel disease is associated with the down-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and IFN-γ production in LPMC. Therefore, LcS may be a useful probiotic for the treatment of human inflammatory bowel disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The defect-related relaxation behaviors and the leakage of fresh and/or dc-electrically degraded specimens of Au/(Ba0.5Sr0.5)TiO3/Pt capacitors on the TiO2 coated sapphire substrates were investigated. The relaxation behaviors of (Ba0.5Sr0.5)TiO3 films are assumed to be the electron-detrapping in the depletion layer. The local electric field enhancement due to oxygen vacancies near the Pt/(Ba0.5Sr0.5)TiO3 interface, which is estimated from the Poisson equation, was assumed to be sufficiently high as a cause of tunneling conduction, and assumed to be a cause of dc-electrical degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hematopoietic stem cell gene therapy has not provided clinical success in disorders such as chronic granulomatous disease (CGD), where genetically corrected cells do not show a selective advantage in vivo. To facilitate selective expansion of transduced cells, we have developed a fusion receptor system that confers drug-induced proliferation. Here, a‘selective amplifier gene (SAG)’encodes a chimeric receptor (GcRER) that generates a mitotic signal in response to estrogen. We evaluated the in vivo efficacy of SAG-mediated cell expansion in a mouse disease model of X-linked CGD (X-CGD) that is deficient in the NADPH oxidase gp91phox subunit. Bone marrow cells from X-CGD mice were transduced with a bicistronic retrovirus encoding GcRER and gp91phox, and transplanted to lethally irradiated X-CGD recipients. Estrogen was administered to a cohort of the transplants, and neutrophil superoxide production was monitored. A significant increase in oxidase-positive cells was observed in the estrogen-treated mice, and repeated estrogen administration maintained the elevation of transduced cells for 20 weeks. In addition, oxidase-positive neutrophils were increased in the X-CGD transplants given the first estrogen even at 9 months post-transplantation. These results showed that the SAG system would enhance the therapeutic effects by boosting genetically modified, functionally corrected cells in vivo.Gene Therapy (2004) 11, 1370-1377. doi:10.1038/sj.gt.3302317; Published online 1 July 2004 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we illustrate the main features of a new scheme which aims at obtaining coherent radiation at very short wavelengths (down to 1.5 nm) by using the Harmonics of an intense laser, generated in a gas, as a seed to inject in a long undulator, either in the pure SASE or in the HGHG configuration. The unique spatial and temporal coherence properties of the High-Order Harmonics are then conserved, and the High Gain FEL amplifier system saturates up to the GW level. An experiment is here proposed, to be performed on the new compact LINAC-based source SCSS, currently under development in SPring-8. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We propose an automatic contour extraction scheme based on an active contour model (Snake). In this technique, after first determining the central point of a mass, an initial contour is arranged, and a control point''s direction of movement is limited to directions radiating from the central point. Moreover, it became possible to increase extraction accuracy by choosing the pixel used for processing and using two images, an edge intensity image and a degree of separation image defined based on the concentration histogram, for the calculation of the image forces of a snake. The accuracy of the placement of the central point and the automated extraction method were investigated using 53 digitized mammograms having many difficult contours. The results were quantitatively compared with correct segmentation described by doctor''s sketches. The number of cases in which the extracted region corresponded with the correct one at 81–100% and 61–80% were 25 and 12, respectively. The initial results of the application of this technique show that it may be effective in improving the performance of our computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The temper softening behavior of Fe–C binary martensite with various carbon contents was considered by evaluating the matrix strength through nanoindentation. The tempering temperature dependence of conventional micro-Vickers hardness shows a “hump” around 673 K, while the matrix strength obtained by nanoindentation simply decreases with tempering temperature. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Study Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the uptake rates of (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) and (11)C-choline in patients with lung cancer, pulmonary tuberculosis, and atypical mycobacterial infection of the lung by positron emission tomography (PET) scanning with relation to their tumor size.Design: Ninety-seven patients with untreated lung cancer, 14 patients with untreated pulmonary tuberculosis, and 5 patients with untreated atypical mycobacterial infection were examined. The diagnosis of lung cancer was confirmed pathologically after biopsy and surgery. The diagnosis of tuberculosis and atypical mycobacterial infection was confirmed by bacterial culture. The uptake rates of FDG and (11)C-choline were presented quantitatively as the standardized uptake value (SUV).Setting: International Medical Center of Japan.Results: In lung cancer patients, the SUV of FDG increased with increasing tumor size, whereas the SUV of (11)C-choline was almost constant at around 3.5 for every tumor size. In tuberculosis patients, the SUV of FDG increased with increasing tumor size, whereas the SUV of (11)C-choline was almost constant at around 2 for every tumor size. In atypical mycobacterial infection patients, the SUV of FDG and the SUV of (11)C-choline were equally low at around < or = 2.Conclusion: The differences in the SUVs of FDG and (11)C-choline in patients with lung cancer, tuberculosis, and atypical mycobacterial infection for the same tumor size (tumor size, > 1.5 cm) were distinct. In lung cancer patients, the SUVs of both FDG and (11)C-choline were high. In tuberculosis patients, the SUV of FDG was high, but the SUV of (11)C-choline was low. In atypical mycobacterial infection patients, the SUVs of both FDG and (11)C-choline were low. It may be possible to apply this principle to make a presumptive diagnosis of a solitary pulmonary nodule if it is too small to make a definitive diagnosis pathologically and bacteriologically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The normal modes of peanut-shaped C120 fullerenes, which appear as stable intermediate isomers between the [2+2] dumbbell C120 and the completely coalesced C120 nanotube [H. Ueno, S. Ōsawa, E. Ōsawa, K. Takeuchi, Full. Sci. Technol. 6, 319 (1998)], were investigated by semi-empirical AM1 method. It was found that the peanut-shaped C120 isomers have a feature of infrared (IR) absorption band in the range 1300–1400 cm–1, which is attributed to the in-plane atomic motions in their negative curvature region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helicity switching of circularly polarized undulator radiation provides a valuable tool in synchrotron radiation experiments, particularly in the study of circular dichroism. At SPring-8, we have developed a helicity switching system by means of selecting radiation from two helical undulators. Right and left circular photon beams are alternately supplied to the beamline using electron beam orbit bumps. Instead of reversing the magnetic field applied to a sample, helicity switched light was used in magnetic circular dichroism measurements and the measuring time was reduced by 1/3. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Wind tunnel experiments of gas diffusion were performed over flat terrain and over an isolated three-dimensional hill under neutral, stable and unstable (sea breeze) conditions. Conditions of airflow in the wind tunnel were determined so as to satisfy the similarity rule for the bulk Richardson number, by controlling temperature profiles and wind velocity of the thermally stratified wind tunnel. Typical characteristics were observed under each condition of atmospheric stability; reversed vortex behind the hill in neutral condition, downward slope wind in stable one and convective motion in unstable one. We compared these experiments with the results of a Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS) model for the wind velocity over the hill under neutral conditions. The numerical results showed good agreement with the experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]