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Waterfalls are among the fastest-eroding parts of river networks, but predicting natural waterfall retreat rates is difficult due to multiple processes that can drive waterfall erosion. We lack data on how waterfall height influences the mechanism and rate of upstream waterfall retreat. We addressed this knowledge gap with experiments testing the influence of drop height on waterfall retreat. Our experiments showed that shorter waterfalls retreat up to five times faster than taller waterfalls, when bedrock strength, sediment supply, and water discharge are constant. This retreat rate difference is due to a change in the erosion mechanism. Short waterfalls retreat by the formation of several small, rapidly eroding bedrock steps (i.e., cyclic steps), whereas tall waterfalls tend to form large bedrock plunge pools where lateral plunge pool erosion allows headwall undercutting and subsequent waterfall retreat. Because waterfall height can be partially set by the waterfall formation mechanism, our results highlight that the rate of waterfall retreat and subsequent landscape evolution can be modulated by the processes that form waterfalls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffraction, and quasi-elastic neutron scattering (QENS) measurements of aqueous glycine solutions confined in mesoporous silica (MCM-41) were performed at different glycine concentrations, pH, and loading ratio (=mass of glycine solution/mass of dry MCM-41) in the temperature range from 305 to 180 K to discuss the confinement effect on the thermal behavior, the structure, and the dynamic properties of the solutions. The freezing points of the confined glycine solutions decreased, compared with those of the bulk solutions. The corresponding exothermic peak due to ice formation became broader with an increase in the glycine concentration. By subtracting X-ray diffraction patterns of dry MCM-41 from those of glycine solution-loaded MCM-41, information about the structure of the confined glycine solutions was obtained. The radial distribution functions of the confined glycine solutions showed that the peaks assigned to the interaction between glycine molecules and the surface silanol (Si–OH) groups of MCM-41 at pH = 5 were observed, in contrast to the case at pH = 2. The QENS data on H/D substituted aqueous glycine solutions gave the translational diffusion coefficients and the residence time of glycine and water molecules confined in MCM-41 individually. The activation energy of the diffusion coefficient of a glycine molecule at pH = 5 was larger than that at pH = 2. These results imply that glycine molecules locate near the pore surface of MCM-41 due to the formation of hydrogen bonding between glycine molecules and the silanol group of the MCM-41 wall at pH = 5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Specimens for analysing the molecular pathology of skin disease are generally obtained through invasive methods, such as biopsy. However, less burdensome methods are desirable for paediatric patients. We recently established a method that comprehensively analyses RNA present in sebum (skin surface lipid–RNAs: SSL‐RNAs) using a next‐generation sequencer. Using this method, biological information can be obtained from the skin in a completely non‐invasive manner. Objectives: To verify the applicability of the SSL‐RNA method for analysis of paediatric skin and analyse the molecular pathology of mild‐to‐moderate atopic dermatitis (AD) in children. Methods: We collected sebum specimens from the whole faces of 23 healthy children and 16 children with mild‐to‐moderate AD (eczema area and severity index (EASI) score: 5.9 ± 2.6) ranging in age from 6 months to 5 years, using an oil‐blotting film. We then extracted SSL‐RNAs from the samples and performed an AmpliSeq transcriptomic analysis. Results: The expressions of genes related to keratinization (LCE, PSORS1C2, IVL and KRT17), triglyceride synthesis and storage (PLIN2, DGAT2 and CIDEA), wax synthesis (FAR2), ceramide synthesis (GBA2, SMPD3 and SPTLC3), antimicrobial peptides (DEFB1) and intercellular adhesion (CDSN), all of which are related to the skin barrier, are lower in children with AD than in healthy children. The children with AD also have higher expression of CCL17, a Th2‐cytokine and an increased Th2‐immune response as demonstrated by a gene set variation analysis. Moreover, KRT17 and CCL17 expression levels are significantly correlated with the EASI score. Conclusions: Molecular changes associated with abnormal immune responses and the epidermal barrier in children with mild‐to‐moderate AD can be determined using the SSL‐RNA method. This non‐invasive method could therefore be a useful means for understanding the molecular pathology of paediatric AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glass dosimeters are very useful and convenient detection elements in radiation dosimetry. In this study, this glass dosimeter was applied to a BNCT treatment field. Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is a next-generation radiation therapy that can selectively kill only cancer cells. In the BNCT treatment field, both neutrons and secondary gamma-rays are generated. In other words, it is a mixed radiation field of neutrons and gamma-rays. We thus proposed a novel method to measure only gamma-ray dose in the mixed field using two RPLGD (Radiophoto-luminescence Glass Dosimeter) and two sensitivity control filters in order to control the dose response of the filtered RPLGD to be proportional to the air kerma coefficients, even if the gamma-ray energy spectrum is unknown. As the filter material iron was selected, and it was finally confirmed that reproduction of the air kerma coefficients was excellent within an error of 5.3% in the entire energy range up to 10 MeV. In order to validate this method, irradiation experiments were carried out using standard gamma-ray sources. As the result, the measured doses were in acceptably good agreement with the theoretical calculation results by PHITS. In the irradiation experiment with a volume source in a nuclear fuel storage room, the measured dose rates showed larger compared with survey meter values. In conclusion, the results of the standard sources showed the feasibility of this method, however for the volume source the dependence of the gamma-ray incident angle on the dosimeter was found to be not neglected. In the next step, it will be necessary to design a thinner filter in order to suppress the effect of the incident angle. • In BNCT, the irradiation field is a mixed field of neutron and gamma-ray. • It is necessary to measure gamma-ray dose separately for the patient. • An iron shielding filter was proposed to control the sensitivity of glass dosimeter to be the same as air kerma coefficients. • Gamma-ray dose was accurately measured with standard gamma-ray sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the range of reach of our newly designed omni-directional ureteroscope (URF-Y0016), compared to the commonly used URF-P6, FlexX2s, and LithoVue™ scopes, in the upper, middle, and lower calyces in an ex-vivo pyelocaliceal model. Methods: We fabricated a three-dimensional pyelocaliceal model of the upper, middle, and lower pole calyces using urethane and acrylic resin. The inner surface of the dome of each calyx was engraved with reference lines along eight directions, set at 10° of latitude from the top to the base of the dome, and at angles of 0–90°, to precisely determine the range of reach of each scope. The main feature of the URF-Y0016 scope is the omni-directional bending of the tip of the flexible ureteroscope, with the control of these four directions integrated into a handgun-type control unit with a joystick. The range of reach within each calyx was measured by four expert surgeons. Results: The URF-Y0016 scope provided a greater range of reach along all directions in the lower pole calyx compared to URF-P6, FlexX2s, and LithoVue™ scopes (p < 0.001), particularly along the anterior–posterior direction in the lower lobe calyx. However, the URF-Y0016 scope did not influence the improvement of reach range in the upper and middle pole calyx compared to URF-P6, FlexX2s, and LithoVue™ scopes (p = 0.08, p = 0.296). Conclusion: The novel design of the URF-Y0016 could improve treatment outcomes for calyceal stones in the lower pole in practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigates the growth rate and electrical character of nanostructures produced by scanned probe oxidation. Experimental details; Results; Discussion.

Proposes a seed structure known as partially thickened silicon films on insulator (SOI) for multilevel seeded-laterally epitaxial silicon films on insulator. Dynamic simulation of recrystallization process; Overview of the SOI recrystallization process; Description of the bumpy surfaces measured by the stylus method.

Proposes an electron-beam annealing technique for the recrystallization of large-area silicon layers on insulationg materials. Clarifications regarding the conventional pseudoline electron beam; Concept of the sinusoidal wave modulation; Formation of the optimized wave modulation.

Presents an overview of a study which evaluated InP polycrystals and single crystals grown by the liquid-encapsulated Czochralski technique using photoluminescence. Applications of InP semiconductor materials; Method used in synthesizing InP polycrystals; Measurement of photoluminescence; Details on the photoluminescence spectra of various InP polycrystals.

Objective: In the gingival crevice, the interaction between epithelial cells and periodontopathic bacteria is important for the development of periodontitis. Treponema denticola is a major pathogen of chronic periodontitis and possesses several virulence factors, such as major surface protein (Msp) and prolyl‐phenylalanine‐specific protease (dentilisin). Here, we investigated the behaviours of epithelial cells infected with T. denticola by measuring the expression of interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, β defensin 2 (BD‐2) and heat‐shock protein 70 (HSP70). Methods: Epithelial cells were infected with T. denticola wild‐type strain, Msp‐deficient mutant or dentilisin‐deficient mutant, and the expression levels of the above targets were analysed by polymerase chain reaction. Results: Infection with T. denticola wild‐type strain and mutants induced the production of IL‐6 and HSP70. The level of BD‐2 induced by T. denticola wild‐type strain at 24 hr was significantly higher than that of the dentilisin‐deficient mutant. The level of IL‐1β mRNA in the wild‐type strain and dentilisin‐deficient mutant was slightly lower than that in the uninfected control. Conclusion: These results suggest that the levels of BD‐2 were affected by Msp and dentilisin. This effect may contribute to the disruption of the response of epithelial cells to eradicate T. denticola. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Using a strategy of placing a surgical drain after kidney transplantation, the duration of a lymphatic fluid leakage and prevalence of a symptomatic lymphocele were retrospectively analyzed. The risk factors for persistent lymphatic fluid leakage or asymptomatic lymphocele were evaluated using multivariate analysis to estimate the origin of the lymphatic fluid leakage. Materials and methods Patients with persistent lymphatic fluid leakage and symptomatic lymphocele were defined as those with lymphatic fluid drainage >50 mL for more than 15 days and those who required a percutaneous drainage of the lymphocele, respectively. Results Persistent lymphatic fluid leakage and symptomatic lymphocele were observed in 40 (16.4%) and 10 (4.1%) of a total of 244 patients, respectively. The maximum durations of lymphatic fluid drainage from the initial drain tube and the second drainage of the symptomatic lymphocele were 48 and 28 days, respectively. Anastomosis of the graft artery to the external iliac artery was an independent risk factor to predict persistent lymphatic fluid leakage or symptomatic lymphocele after kidney transplantation (odds = 2.597, P = .008). Conclusion The findings of the study suggest that the lymphatic fluid originates from the recipient's iliac lymph trunk rather than from the graft kidney. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The aim of this study was to examine how hospital patient-safety procedures affect the job satisfaction of hospital nurses. Additionally, we investigated the association between perceived autonomy and hospital patient-safety procedures and job satisfaction. Background Recently, measures for patient safety have been recognized as an essential requirement in hospitals. Hospital patient-safety procedures may enhance the job satisfaction of nurses by improving the quality of their work. However, such procedures may also decrease their job satisfaction by imposing excessive stress on nurses because they cannot make mistakes. Methods The participants included 537 nurses at 10 private hospitals in Japan (The surveys were collected from March to July 2012). Factors related to hospital patient-safety procedures were demonstrated using factor analysis, and the associations between these factors and nurses' self-perceived autonomy and job satisfaction were examined using structural equation modelling. Findings Five factors regarding hospital patient-safety procedures were extracted. Additionally, structural equation modelling revealed statistically significant associations between these factors and the nurses' self-perceived autonomy and job satisfaction. The findings showed that nurses' perceived autonomy of the workplace enhanced their job satisfaction and that their perceptions of hospital patient-safety procedures promoted their job satisfaction. However, some styles of chief nurses' leadership regarding patient safety restrict nurses' independent and autonomous decision-making and actions, resulting in a lowering of job satisfaction. Conclusion and implications for nursing and health policy This study demonstrated that hospital patient-safety procedures have ambiguous effects on nurses' job satisfaction. In particular, chief nurses' leadership relating to patient safety can have a positive or negative effect on nurses' job satisfaction. The findings indicated that hospital managers should demonstrate positive attitudes to improve patient safety for nurses' job satisfaction. In addition, policymakers in the hospitals should consider that chief nurses' leadership styles may reduce autonomy and suppress nurses' job satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details a study which analyzed the temperature dependence of cerium oxide layer epitaxy on silicon substrates with crystallographic orientation. Experimental procedures; Variation in growth temperatures; Results and discussion.

Complex stresses, which occur on the mechanical surfaces of transport machinery in service, bring a drastic degradation in fatigue life. However, it is hard to reproduce such complex stress states for evaluating the fatigue life with conventional multiaxial fatigue machines. We have developed a fatigue testing machine that enables reproduction of such complex stresses. The testing machine can reproduce arbitrary in-plane stress states by applying three independent loads to the test specimen using actuators which apply loads in the 0, 45, and 90 degree directions. The reproduction was tested with complex stress data obtained from the actual operation of transport machinery. As a result, it was found that the reproduced stress corresponded to the measured stress with an error range of less than 10 %. Then, we made a comparison between measured fatigue lives under random non-proportional loading conditions and predicted fatigue lives. It was found that predicted fatigue lives with σcr, stress on critical plane, were over a factor of 10 against measured fatigue lives. On the other hand, predicted fatigue lives with σma, stress in consideration of a non-proportional level evaluated by using amplitude and direction of principal stress, were within a factor of 3 against measured fatigue lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural bedrock rivers exhibit diverse erosional morphologies. Although the formation of alternate bars on bedrock has been noted in previous studies, the influence of these alternate bars on bedrock erosion has not been clarified. In this study, the authors propose a model for bedrock-alluvial channels that reproduces both bar formation and erosional morphology. In addition, the authors report on numerical simulations to evaluate the influence of sediment supply on the state of the bed at and over the bedrock surface. The numerical results illustrate the formation of different morphologies for different supply rates. When the sediment supply rate is close to transport capacity, mixed alluvial-bedrock alternate bars form. These bars are analogous to purely alluvial alternate bars. A meandering thread of alluvial material migrates downstream over a uniformly eroding bedrock surface. When the sediment supply rate is well below capacity, however, multiple incisional troughs (grooves) form on the bedrock surface, and alluvial cover tends to concentrate in the troughs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) is known to belong to a class of smart materials whose elastic properties can be varied by an externally applied magnetic field. In addition to the property of the field-dependent stiffness change of the MRE, the electrical resistance of the composite is also changed by the induced strain, thereby providing a new self-sensing feature. In the present study, a novel, dynamic vibration absorber is developed using an MRE with a self-sensing function and adaptability. The natural frequency of the absorber is instantaneously tuned to a dominant frequency extracted from the strain signal of MRE. The damping performance test shows that the vibration of a system with one degree-of-freedom that is exposed to a nonstationary disturbance can be adequately reduced by the proposed frequency-tunable dynamic absorber without the use of external sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the nitrogen compound removal efficiency of a hybrid subsurface constructed wetland, which began treating milking parlor wastewater in Hokkaido, northern Japan, in 2006. The wetland's overall removal rates of total nitrogen (TN) and ammonium (NH4+-N) improved after the second year of operation, and its rate of organic nitrogen (Org-N) removal was stable at 90% efficiency. Only nitrate (NO3–-N) levels were increased following the treatment. Despite increased NO3–-N (maximum of 3 mg-N/L) levels, TN removal rates were only slightly affected. Removal rates of TN and Org-N were highest in the first vertical bed. NH4+-N removal rates were highest in the second vertical bed, presumably due to water recirculation and pH adjustment. Concentrations of NO3–-N appeared when total carbon (TC) levels were low, which suggests that low TC prevented complete denitrification in the second vertical bed and the final horizontal bed. In practice, the beds removed more nitrogen than the amount theoretically removed by denitrification, as calculated by the amount of carbon removed from the system. This carbon-nitrogen imbalance may be due to other nitrogen transformation mechanisms, which require less carbon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soft X-ray microscopy has great advantages over other types of microscopy on the observation of hydrated specimens at high spatial resolution below 100 nm, and on the elemental and molecular mapping using absorption characteristics. These advantages are particularly suitable for biomedical applications. A possible problem associated with observation of specimens at high spatial resolution in a hydrated environment is described and a strategy to overcome the problem is presented. The latter part of the present report deals with spectromicroscopy to obtain molecular distribution in biological specimens. DNA and protein distributions in isolated nuclei are examined following to the progression of apoptosis at high resolution, and the oxidation product is visualized in human hair in relation to calcium content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate performance of a hybrid constructed wetland (CW) built for high organic content piggery wastewater treatment in a cold region. The system consists of four vertical and one horizontal flow subsurface CWs. The wetland was built in 2009 and water quality was monitored from the outset. Average purification efficiency of this system was 95±5, 91±7, 89±8, 70±10, 84±15, 90±6, 99±2, and 93± 16% for biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total carbon (TC), total nitrogen (TN), ammonium-N (NH4-N), total phosphorus (TP), total coliform (T. Coliform), and suspended solids (SS), respectively during August 2010-December 2013. Pollutant removal rate was 15±18 gm-2 d-1, 49±52 gm-2 d-1, 6±4 gm-2 d-1, 7±5 gm-2 d-1, and 1 ±1 gm-2 d-1 for BOD5, COD, TN, NH4-N, and TP, respectively. The removal efficiency of BOD5, COD, NH4-N, and SS improved yearly since the start of operation. With respect to removal of TN and TP, efficiency improved in the first three years but slightly declined in the fourth year. The system performed well during both warm and cold periods, but was more efficient in the warm period. The nitrate increase may be attributed to a low C/N ratio, due to limited availability of carbon required for denitrification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A laser cooled heavy atom is one of the candidates to search for the permanent electric dipole moment (EDM) of the electron due to the enhancement mechanism and its long coherence time. The laser cooled francium (Fr) factory has been constructed to perform the electron EDM search at the Cyclotron and Radioisotope Center, Tohoku University. The present status of Fr production and the EDM measurement system is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Strained Ge microbridges along [1 1 1] direction are fabricated based on Ge-on-Si(1 1 0). • Strong PL was obtained from the Ge microbridge the [1 1 1] uniaxial tensile-strain. • PL spectra from dry-etched Ge microbridges show Fabry-Perot resonant peaks. • We successfully regrew a strained SiGe layer on the Ge microbridge. • We observed strong emissions at shorter wavelength from the SiGe/Ge microbridge. Strained SiGe/Ge microbridges are fabricated based on Ge-on-Si(1 1 0). The Si(1 1 0) substrate is employed to fabricate the microbridge along [1 1 1] direction as uniaxial strain in the [1 1 1] direction is expected to be the most effective to shift the direct valley of the conduction band. As a result, very strong room temperature photoluminescence is obtained from the fabricated Ge microbridge. It is remarkable that Fabry-Perot resonant peaks are seen in this emission, which is attributed to the vertical side wall of the bridge realized by the anisotropic dry etching process. Moreover, for the purpose of controlling of the emission wavelength, a SiGe layer is regrown on the Ge microbridge. We observe strong emissions from the SiGe at shorter wavelength, demonstrating that the emission wavelength can be controlled using SiGe/Ge hetero structures on the microbridge and this structure is very promising for realization of efficient light sources for Si photonics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electron Cyclotron Resonance-Ion Plasma Accelerator (ECR-IPAC) device, which theoretically can accelerate multiple charged ions to several hundred MeV with short acceleration length, has been proposed. The acceleration mechanism is based on the combination of two physical principles, plasma electron ion adiabatic ejection (PLEIADE) and Gyromagnetic Autoresonance (GYRAC). In this study, we have designed the proof of principle machine ECR-IPAC device and simulated the electromagnetic field distribution generating in the resonance cavity. ECR-IPAC device consisted of three parts, ECR ion source section, GYRAC section, and PLEIADE section. ECR ion source section and PLEIADE section were designed using several multi-turn solenoid coils and sextupole magnets, and GYRAC section was designed using 10 turns coil. The structure of ECR-IPAC device was the cylindrical shape, and the total length was 1024 mm and the maximum diameter was 580 mm. The magnetic field distribution, which maintains the stable acceleration of plasma, was generated on the acceleration center axis throughout three sections. In addition, the electric field for efficient acceleration of electrons was generated in the resonance cavity by supplying microwave of 2.45 GHz. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gas exchange of the upper fully expanded leaf of the root parasite Striga hermonthica and of its host Sorghum bicolor was measured under wet and dry conditions to identify the mechanisms of the devastating effects of the parasite on its hosts under drought. The short-term water stress severely reduced photosynthetic rate in infected sorghum, but less in S. hermonthica. Soil water stress did not affect leaf respiration rate in either S. hermonthica or infected sorghum. This suggests that under dry conditions both infected sorghum and S. hermonthica decreased autotrophic carbon gain. The transpiration rate of S. hermonthica, a major driving force for assimilate uptake from the host, was higher and less affected by water stress than that of infected sorghum. Stomatal density on the abaxial surfaces of the leaves was higher in S. hermonthica than in sorghum. Both S. hermonthica infection and water stress decreased stomatal conductance of the sorghum leaves. S. hermonthica, irrespective of soil water status, had greater stomatal aperture on the adaxial and abaxial surfaces of its leaves than infected sorghum. These results indicate that the higher transpiration rate of S. hermonthica even under water stress, achieved through higher stomatal density on the abaxial surfaces of the leaves and greater stomatal aperture on both surfaces of the leaves, may induce the maintenance of water and solute transfers from the host to the parasite leading to severe damage to the host under drought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

5α-reduced inhibitors (5ARIs) are usually administered to patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia, however, whether 5ARIs affect sexual function remains a controversial issue for both patients and urologists. In this study, we evaluated the impact of dutasteride treatment for erectile function in patients with once-negative prostate biopsy and benign prostate hyperplasia. 81 patients with benign prostate hyperplasia were enrolled in a one-arm prospective study. They were administrated 0.5 mg/day of dutasteride for 12 months. Patient characteristics, change of IPSS and IIEF-15 scores at baseline and 12 months after dutasteride administration were examined. The mean ± SD age of the patients was 69.4 ± 4.9 years and the prostate volume was 56.6 ± 21.3 mL, respectively. The mean ± SD prostate volume and PSA levels were decreased 25.0% and 50.9%, respectively, after 12 months of dutasteride administration. IPSS total, voiding subscore, storage subscore, and QOL score significantly improved after 12 months of dutasteride administration. No significant change was observed in any of the IIEF scores after 12 months. There was no decrease in EF severity. Twelve months administration of dutasteride for patients with BPH improved urinary function and did not increase the risk of sexual dysfunction. Work supported by industry: no. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 71-year-old man with chronic pancreatitis developed recurrent acute pancreatitis because of pancreatic duct stricture. This report demonstrates the need for recognizing pancreatic duct perforation as a potential adverse event of RFA for pancreatic duct stricture. [Extracted from the article]

The performance of six multistage hybrid constructed wetland systems was evaluated. The systems were designed to treat four kinds of high-content wastewater: dairy wastewater (three systems, average inflow content 2,400-5,000 mg COD -1 ,3-6 years of operation); pig farm wastewater, including liquid food washing wastewater (one system, 9,500 mg COD-1 , 3 years); potato starch processing wastewater (one system, 20,000-60,000 mg COD-1 , 3 years); and wastewater containing pig farm swine urine (one system, 6,600 mg COD-1 ,2.8 years) (COD ¼ chemical oxygen demand). The systems contained three or four vertical (V) flow beds with self-priming siphons and surface partitions and no or one horizontal (H) flow bed (three to five beds). In some V flow beds, treated effluents were recirculated (Vr) through the inlet to improve performance. Mean annual temperature was 5-8 WC at all locations. To overcome clogging due to the high load in a cold climate, we applied a safety bypass structure and floating cover material to the V flow beds. Calculated average oxygen transfer rates (OTRs) increased proportionally with the influent load, and the OTR value was Vr>V> H. The relations of load-OTR, COD-ammonium, and a Arrhenius temperature dependent equation enable the basic design of a reed bed system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The HV bushing has a function of a bulk head between insulation gas (SF6) of 0.6MPa and vacuum, which is needed to insulate −1MV in vacuum in ITER heating neutral beam (NB) injection system. Mechanical analyses were carried out to verify the mechanical integrity of the HV bushing composed of five-stage double-layered insulator columns with large brazed ceramic ring and fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) ring of which non-metallic material is required to satisfy a safety factor of ≥3.5. As for the FRP ring required sustaining the pressure load, seismic load and dead weight, it was confirmed that isotropic fiber cloth FRP rings having sufficient strength against shear stress should be used. The shape and fixation area of the Kovar sleeve were modified to lower the stress at the brazing area having vacuum leak tightness and pressure tightness against the air filled at 0.6MPa. As a result, a design of the insulator for the HV bushing was established satisfying the requirement. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We have applied the coupled-channel complex scaling method (ccCSM) to system. One advantage of ccCSM is that resonant states as well as scattering states can be treated in the same framework. For the interactions in the system, we have constructed a meson–baryon potential-matrix by basing on the chiral SU(3) theory and respecting the scattering length obtained in the Martinʼs analysis. For future purpose to apply it more complicated system such as , we adopt a local Gaussian form in the r-space. We have investigated both the non-relativistic (NR) and the semi-relativistic (SR) kinematics. In the SR case, two types of the potentials are obtained. To test the constructed potentials, we have calculated scattering amplitudes and searched resonances. One resonance pole, corresponding to , is found in isospin system around ( or ) on complex-energy plane with the NR (SR) kinematics. Mean distance between meson and baryon in the resonant state is ( ) for NR (SR), in which the states are treated as Gamow states. In addition, we have observed a signature of another pole in lower-energy region involving large decay width, although they are unstable against the change of scaling angle θ. This may correspond to the lower pole of the double-pole of discussed in literature today. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Early-onset epileptic encephalopathies include various diseases such as early-infantile epileptic encephalopathy with suppression burst. We experimentally investigated the unique clinicopathological features of a 28-month-old girl with early-onset epileptic encephalopathy. Her initial symptom was intractable epilepsy with a suppression–burst pattern of electroencephalography (EEG) from 7days of age. The suppression–burst pattern was novel, appearing during sleep, but disappearing upon waking and after becoming 2months old. The EEG showed multifocal spikes and altered with age. Her seizures demonstrated various clinical features and continued until death. She did not show any developmental features, including no social smiling or head control. Head MRI revealed progressive atrophy of the cerebral cortex and white matter after 1month of age. 123IMZ-SPECT demonstrated hypo-perfusion of the cerebral cortex, but normo-perfusion of the diencephalon and cerebellum. Such imaging information indicated GABA-A receptor dysfunction of the cerebral cortex. The genetic analyses of major neonatal epilepsies showed no mutation. The neuropathology revealed atrophy and severe edema of the cerebral cortex and white matter. GAD-immunohistochemistry exhibited imbalanced distribution of GABAergic interneurons between the striatum and cerebral cortex. The results were similar to those of focal cortical dysplasia with transmantle sign and X-linked lissencephaly with ARX mutation. We performed various metabolic examinations, detailed pathological investigations and genetic analyses, but could not identify the cause. To our knowledge, her clinical and pathological courses have never been described in the literature. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background Neuroimmunological disorders are involved in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis (AD), partly through enhanced sensory nerve-skin mast cell interaction. Cell adhesion molecule 1 (CADM1) is a mast-cell adhesion molecule that mediates the adhesion to, and communication with, sympathetic nerves. Objectives To investigate the role of mast cell CADM1 in the pathogenesis of AD, CADM1 expression levels by comparing between lesional and nonlesional skin mast cells of an AD mouse model, which was developed by repeated application of trinitrochlorobenzene, and to examine, in cocultures, how the alterations in CADM1 detected in lesional mast cells might affect the sensory nerve-mast cell interaction. Methods AD-like lesional and nonlesional skin mast cells were collected separately by laser capture microdissection. CADM1 expression was examined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and CADM1 immunohistochemistry. In cocultures, adhesion between dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurites and IC2 mast cells was analysed by loading a femtosecond laser-induced impulsive force on neurite-attendant IC2 cells, while cellular communication was monitored as the IC2 cellular response ([Ca2+]i increase) after nerve-specific stimulant-induced DRG activation. Results AD-like lesional mast cells expressed three-fold more CADM1 transcripts than nonlesional cells. This was supported at the protein level, shown by immunohistochemistry. In coculture, CADM1 overexpression in IC2 cells strengthened DRG neurite-IC2 cell adhesion and doubled the population of IC2 cells responding to DRG activation. A function-blocking anti-CADM1 antibody abolished these effects in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusions Increased expression of CADM1 in mast cells appeared to be a cause of enhanced sensory nerve-mast cell interaction in a hapten-induced mouse model of AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field observations were conducted with respect to the vertical migration of the dinoflagellate Peridinium bipes and its influence on vertical nutrient transport in a stratified reservoir. P. bipes migrated vertically with circadian rhythms; that is, P. bipes migrated downward and accumulated in the top layer of the hypolimnion from evening to night and then migrated upward and accumulated in the epilimnion in the early morning. In the top layer of the hypolimnion, a rapid decrease in nutrient concentration was observed in the evening, presumably due to uptake by P. bipes. Active migration from the epilimnion to the top of the hypolimnion was also suggested by estimation of the descent velocity of P. bipes, which was advantageous for the uptake of nutrients. Moreover, based on the equilibrium of forces during migration, the energy cost of vertical migration could be inferred to be negligible. The results suggest that active vertical migration of P. bipes played an important role in nutrient transport between the hypolimnion and the epilimnion in a stratified reservoir. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroxylammonium nitrate (HAN)-based solutions have been investigated as candidates for a green monopropellant. However, their high burning rate characteristics have hampered the application. In order to elucidate the mechanism of extremely high burning rates of some HAN-based solutions, the combustion characteristics of HAN-based aqueous solutions are studied. It is found that the role of the two-phase region is very important, and intense boiling of water owing to the superheat mechanism is responsible for the high burning rate. Hydrodynamic instability is taken into account, and the dependence of the instability on pressure is estimated. It is found that the instability is strongly affected by the Markstein number. The HAN-based monopropellant is applied to thrusters of a small-sized experimental mockup of a supersonic aircraft and used in the first free-fall test. Their operation is found to be successful and is described in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We have constructed a 129Xe nuclear spin oscillator which executes a self-sustained oscillation through an external feedback loop with optical detection of nuclear spin. The oscillator is capable of operating at frequencies much lower than the conventional nuclear spin maser. A method for efficient optical detection of spin has been developed and applied to the nuclear spin oscillator, and the frequency characteristics of the oscillator at low frequencies has been investigated. The spin oscillator was operated at frequencies 2.5–36 Hz. The frequency performance of the oscillator is discussed in relation to a planned search for an atomic electric dipole moment taking advantage of the present oscillator scheme. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Perpendicular magnetic recording tape medium with laminated soft magnetic underlayers was successively formed on a 4.5μm thin plastic film by the facing targets sputtering method at room temperature. The tape medium showed extremely high SNR values with sharp transitions in playback tests by a drum tester, compared to a linear format commercial tape medium. An areal density of 45.0Gb/in.2 of perpendicular tape medium was confirmed by a high-resolution contact tester. These results suggest that the perpendicular recording tape medium by the facing targets sputtering method is a promising candidate for a tape cartridge of over 50-TB. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Differential-phase-shift (DPS) quantum key distribution (QKD) is one of the QKD protocols, featuring simplicity for practical implementation. It uses a coherent pulse train whose phase should be stable at least within the pulse interval. This paper quantitatively investigates the phase stability required for DPS-QKD systems. The phase stability is characterized by the spectral linewidth of the light source. A theoretical model and experiments are presented, the results of which indicate that the linewidth should be, for example, less than 0.35% of the free-spectral-range of an asymmetric Mach–Zehnder interferometer in a receiver to achieve quantum bit error rate of less than 0.5% due to linewidth broadening of the light source. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate detailed vessel response after everolimus-eluting stents (EES) implantation in human de novo coronary lesions by optical coherence tomography (OCT). Design, setting and patients Between November 2008 and October 2009, 25 patients (14 men, 65.5±8.6years) with de novo native coronary artery lesions were implanted with 30 EES, and OCT was performed at 8months post-implantation. Main outcome measures Neointimal thickness (NIT) on each strut, strut apposition to the vessel wall, the frequency of struts surrounded by low intensity area and the incidence of intra-stent thrombus were analysed. To evaluate the radial unevenness of NIT, the difference between the maximum and minimum NIT (dNT) was calculated for each cross-section. Results At 236±39days after implantation, there were no major adverse cardiac events, nor target vessel revascularisation. A total of 5931 struts was evaluated by OCT. The median NIT was 80[mu]m (25th and 75th percentile 50[mu]m and 140[mu]m) and average NIT was 100±74[mu]m. The number of neointima-covered struts was 5834 (98.4%), and 31 (0.52%) struts showed malapposition without neointimal coverage. The number of struts surrounded by low intensity area was 452 (7.62%). Eleven EES (37%) showed full neointimal coverage. No intra-stent thrombus was detected. The average dNT was 108±77[mu]m. Conclusions Most EES struts were covered with uniform and thin neointima. The frequency of low-intensity neointima was very low, which may be a result of promoted vessel healing. These results may support improved clinical outcomes with EES in clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on Glycophorin (GP) glycoproteins in red blood cell (RBC) membranes of healthy and diseased Cyprinus carpio L. carps, which highlights its physiological function as MN blood group antigens and receptors for viruses and malaria parasite. It mentions the extraction of carp blood specimens post-anaesthesia via the mouth using a syringe. Furthermore, it suggests that GP from carp RBC membranes may act as a non-specific antibody-like agglutinin in the blood of carp.

Algal blooms in eutrophic water bodies are controlled by inputs of phosphorus (P) as the growth-limiting nutrient. Runoff particulate P associated with soil from fields often predominates among P fractions. Here, an algal bioassay to investigate the potential bioavailability of particulate P in soil collected from a citrus orchard was conducted. Microcystis aeruginosa was cultured in medium containing soil as the sole source of P. The P in the soil was not notably solubilized after autoclaving. Analyses of chlorophyll-a, suspended solids, particulate organic carbon, and particulate organic nitrogen showed that M. aeruginosa could utilize some of the P present in the soil, perhaps that in particulate form, but this form of P was not sufficient to maintain optimum growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]