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Simple Summary: High-grade bone and soft tissue sarcomas are known for high recurrence and low survival rates. New drug development is costly and time-consuming. Instead, new combinations of existing drugs may offer novel anticancer strategies. We previously demonstrated that the combination of the mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor everolimus and the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib is effective against osteosarcoma cells in a drug screening test. Building on previous research, we showed that the combination of everolimus and bortezomib exerted synergistic antiproliferative and apoptotic effects against fibrosarcoma and osteosarcoma, suppressing pulmonary metastases in osteosarcoma-bearing mice. Furthermore, we identified that everolimus and bortezomib inhibited tumor growth via the JNK/p38/ERK MAPK and AKT pathways. This combination treatment may be effective against bone and soft tissue sarcoma suppressing tumor growth and metastasis. The combination of the mammalian target of rapamycin and proteasome inhibitors is a new treatment strategy for various tumors. Herein, we investigated the synergistic effect of everolimus and bortezomib on tumor growth and metastasis in bone and soft tissue sarcomas. The antitumor effects of everolimus and bortezomib were assessed in a human fibrosarcoma (FS) cell line (HT1080) and mouse osteosarcoma (OS) cell line (LM8) by MTS assays and Western blotting. The effects of everolimus and bortezomib on HT1080 and LM8 tumor growth in xenograft mouse models were evaluated using tumor volume and the number of metastatic nodes of the resected lungs. Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate cleaved PARP expression. The combination therapy decreased FS and OS cell proliferation compared with either drug alone. This combination induced more intense p-p38, p-JNK, and p-ERK and activated apoptosis signals, such as caspase-3, compared with single-agent treatment. The combination treatment reduced p-AKT and MYC expression, decreased FS and OS tumor volumes, and suppressed lung metastases of OS. The combination therapy inhibited tumor growth in FS and OS and metastatic progression of OS via the JNK/p38/ERK MAPK and AKT pathways. These results could aid in the development of new therapeutic strategies for sarcomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Percutaneous transluminal septal myocardial ablation (PTSMA) is a well-established interventional therapy for drug-refractory hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) as an alternative to surgical myectomy. Although guidelines recommend that PTSMA should be performed in institutions with extensive experience, it is not centralized to such high-volume centers in real-world clinical practice. Thus, this study aimed to assess the feasibility of PTSMA in non-high-volume centers. We retrospectively examined patients with HOCM who underwent PTSMA between August 2012 and May 2020 at four institutions that experienced fewer than 20 cases of PTSMA procedures. The primary clinical endpoint was a composite of safety (all-cause death, electrical defibrillation for ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation, cardiac tamponade, permanent pacemaker implantation, and repeated interventions) and efficacy endpoints (repeated interventions [PTSMA or surgical myectomy]). Fifty-eight consecutive patients were enrolled. During the 30-day follow-up, no major clinical adverse events were noted except three patients (5.2%) requiring permanent pacemaker implantation for complete atrioventricular block. The percentage of patients with New York Heart Association functional class 1 or 2 significantly increased from 8.6 to 100% (p < 0.001). In the Cox proportional hazard model, left ventricular outflow tract pressure gradient at rest ≥ 30 mmHg (hazard ratio [HR] 6.56; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.44–29.90; p = 0.015) and mitral regurgitation grade ≥ 3 (HR 10.75; 95% CI 1.81–63.79; p = 0.009) at the 30-day follow-up were associated with a composite of major clinical adverse events. The current study demonstrated that 58 patients who underwent PTSMA in non-high-volume centers had favorable 30-day clinical outcomes, with a primary composite endpoint rate of 5.2%. A prospective study with a larger sample size and longer follow-up is warranted to verify the safety and efficacy of PTSMA in non-high-volume centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Theoretical deformation response of hypothetical β-titanium alloys was investigated using first-principles calculation technique under periodic boundary conditions. Simulation was carried out on hypothetical 54-atom supercell of Ti-X (X=Cr, Mn, Fe, Zr, Nb, Mo, Al, and Sn) binary alloys. The results showed that the strength of Ti increases by alloying, except for Cr. The most effective alloying elements are Nb, Zr, and Mo in the current simulation. The mechanism of bond breaking was revealed by studying the local structure around the alloying element atom with respect to volume change. Moreover, the effect of alloying elements on bulk modulus and admissible strain was investigated. It was found that Zr, Nb, and Mo have a significant effect to enhance the admissible strain of Ti without change in bulk modulus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A complete set of low temperature elastic constants Cij and piezoelectric coefficients eij of α-quartz single crystal has been investigated by resonance ultrasound spectroscopy coupled with a laser-Doppler interferometry. Most elastic constants showed monotonic elastic stiffening, while C66 continuously softened as the temperature decreased. Two piezoelectric coefficients eij showed monotonic decreasing upon cooling, and we found a strong correlation between e11 and C66, representing that thermal contraction induced internal strain plays an important role in their temperature behaviors. Group theoretical lattice dynamics analysis revealed that the elastic softening and the correlation can be attributed to an optical-mode-phonon-type internal strain having doubly degenerated E symmetry in the point group of D3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

7 Li and 27 Al MAS-NMR, magnetic susceptibility, and complex impedance measurements have been performed to study the local structure and electrical resistivity in Al doped spinel LiMn 2− x Al x O 4 ( x  = 0, 0.05) exposed to a ball-milling process. The milling process decreased the effective magnetic moment of the Mn species, arising from the appearance of Mn 4+ , and lead to the suppression of the antiferromagnetic correlation. A hopping time and an activation energy for hopping charge carrier, estimated from electrical resistivity, relatively became larger above milling time of 2.5 h. 7 Li and 27 Al MAS-NMR spectra were dependent on milling time, and changes in the spectrum intensities were related to the distribution of Al/Li site occupation. Consequently, we concluded that structural disorder caused by the moderate milling process stimulated a migration of Al 3+ ions from the 8 a site to the 16 d one and the increase of Li + ions at the 8 a site on the diffusion pathway. Such a mutual site migration between the 8 a and 16 d site for Li + and Al 3+ ions would be favorable to Li + ion diffusion in the milled samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the actual factor determining the softening effect of a fabric softener. The adsorption area of the softener on model cotton cloths and yarns was identified using bromophenol blue. There was almost no softener at the cross-points of the yarns in the cloth samples or in the inner part of the yarns. The softening performance was better when there was less softener at the cross-points of the yarns than when the yarns were evenly covered by the softener. Thus we conclude that the presence of softener at the cross-points of yarns is not a vital factor in the softening effect. In addition, more softener was found on the outer part of the yarn than the inner part, indicating gradation in the adsorption pattern of the softener. Thus, we propose that more softener is adsorbed on the exposed part of the yarn in a cloth, and the formation of a hydrogen-bonding network containing bound water is inhibited, thus softening the outer part of the yarn. However, the presence of a small amount of softener in the inner part of the yarn preserves the hydrogen-bonding network. Favorable elasticity, or bounce, of the yarns and cloth is realized when an appropriate amount of softener is used. Excess softener would reach the inner part of the yarn, reducing the diameter of the core part of the yarn, making the cloth appear wilted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasma concentrations of amino acids reflect the intracellular amino acid pool in mammals. However, the regulatory mechanism requires clarification. In this study, we examined the effect of leucine administration on plasma amino acid profiles in mice with and without the treatment of 2-aminobicyclo-(2,2,1)-heptane-2-carboxylic acid (BCH) or rapamycin as an inhibitor of system L or mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1, respectively. The elevation of plasma leucine concentration after leucine administration was associated with a significant decrease in the plasma concentrations of isoleucine, valine, methionine, phenylalanine, and tyrosine; BCH treatment almost completely blocked the leucine-induced decrease in plasma amino acid concentrations. Rapamycin treatment had much less effects on the actions of leucine than BCH treatment. These results suggest that leucine regulates the plasma concentrations of branched-chain amino acids, methionine, phenylalanine, and tyrosine, and that system L amino acid transporters are involved in the leucine action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Site occupation and structural change in Li substituted AgNbO3 were probed by 7Li NMR. Characteristic changes in the 7Li NMR spectra depending on Li content were observed. Analysis of integrated intensity of the spectra revealed that 16% of substituted Li+ ions occupy quasi-stable sites induced in crystal structure at 300K in the 5mol% Li substituted sample and would be in the state of motion, which are comparable to that of Li+ ion in LiNbO3 at high temperature. On the other hand, it was found that the Li+/Ag+ sublattice in the 12.5mol% Li substituted sample is easily made unstable by structural disturbance introduced in structure and the instability of the sublattice stimulates a local Li+ ion motion via quasi-stable sites at room temperature. An appearance of the quasi-stable sites in local structure due to the Li substitution is closely related to instability of the Li/Ag sublattice and Li+ ion dynamics in Li substituted AgNbO3. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

For a better understanding and detailed analysis of the electric behavior of EDLCs, we present one dynamic equivalent circuit model and two static ones, each of which consists of a resistance and a capacitance varying with voltage. A dynamic model based on the differential capacity is used to simulate the discharging curves. Also, two static models based on the integral and the effective capacity are used to estimate the energy efficiency and constant current charging-discharging time. Owing to the same energy-oriented approach as is used in defining the effective capacity, the static model based on this capacity shows its superiority in estimating the efficiency and capacitance over another static model based on the integral capacity. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 180(4): 29-37, 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (). DOI 10.1002/eej.21300 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: XRD, 7Li MAS NMR, and electrical resistivity measurements were carried out to probe the local structure and the Li+ ionic diffusion in lithium manganese oxide Li2MnO3 prepared by mechanical milling and solid state reaction. XRD profiles and NMR spectra remarkably changed as milling time increased, and it is suggested that a disordered frame structure consisting of Mn–O polyhedral blocks was produced. Such a precursor would enable one to synthesize Li–Mn–O compounds at relatively lower temperatures compared to the synthesis just by solid state reaction. The activation energy for the hopping of the Li+ ions in Li2MnO3 sintered at 900°C was determined to be 0.46eV from the analysis based on a simple Debye model of electrical resistivity. Changes in the NMR spectra and the electrical resistivities suggest that the Li+ ions begin to occupy available sites in the Mn–O block layer at low temperatures and located in those, forming the lithium layer sandwiched by oxygen layers, at high temperatures in Li2MnO3 prepared via mechanical milling. The establishment of the lithium layers plays an important role in a valid Li+ ionic conduction in layered Li2MnO3. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: There have been few reports on the long-term outcomes after the operative treatment of missed Monteggia fracture-dislocations in children. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes after open reduction for the treatment of a missed Monteggia fracture-dislocation. Methods: We postoperatively investigated the clinical and radiographic outcomes for twenty-two children with a missed Monteggia fracture. The study group included fourteen boys and eight girls who had had a mean age often years (range, four years to fifteen years and eleven months) at the time of open reduction. Each patient had been managed with open reduction of the radial head combined with a posterior bending elongation ulnar osteotomy and anular ligament reconstruction. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were reviewed over a mean duration of follow-up of seven years. Results: The postoperative Mayo Elbow Performance Index at the time of follow-up ranged from 65 to 100, with nineteen excellent, two good, one fair, and no poor results. The radial head remained in a completely reduced position in sever~teen patients and was subluxated in five patients at the time of the latest follow-up. In four patients, osteoarthritic changes were observed at the radiohumeral joint. Radiographically, there were fifteen good, seven fair, and no poor results. A good radiographic result was obtained in all of the patients who had undergone open reduction within three years after the injury or before the age of twelve years, whereas a fair result was obtained in seven of the remaining eight patients. Conclusions: If open reduction for the treatment of a missed Monteggia fracture is performed when the patient is less than tweIve years of age or within three years after the injury, good long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes can be expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: 7Li NMR measurements have been performed to study milling effects on ionic diffusion in lithium cobalt oxide, LiCoO2 and piezoelectric compound, LiNbO3 prepared by mechanical milling method. The milling process gives quite different effects on NMR spectra of these compounds. Both 7Li MAS and static NMR spectra of the milled LiCoO2 show the line broadening with increasing milling time. 59Co static spectra also show specific changes in the line shape with increasing milling time. These results would be attributed to the change in an electronic state of Co 3d orbitals because of charge compensation associated with oxygen vacancies and/or defects. 7Li static NMR spectrum of milled LiNbO3 shows complicated line shape with increasing milling time. It is explained by superposition of two spectra arising from mobile Li+ ions and non-mobile ones settled on the fixed site. It is shown that the ratio of mobile Li+ ions increases up to a maximum of 9.4% with increasing milling time. Milling effects on the Li+ ionic diffusion in LiCoO2 and LiNbO3 are discussed in connection with changes in local structure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Li+ ionic diffusion in LiCoO2 exposed to ball milling was studied by XRD, complex resistivity, and NMR. Angular frequency dependence of the complex resistivity is analyzed by using a Debye-type relaxation model. The Li+ ion hopping time becomes fast by exposing to short-time milling, whereas it becomes slow by exposing to long-time milling. The activation energy of the Li+ ionic diffusion in milled LiCoO2 samples varies from 0.29 to 0.36 eV as the milling time increases up to 60 h. These results suggest that exposure to appropriate milling time enhances the Li+ ionic diffusion but the excessive milling is disadvantageous for the Li+ ionic diffusion. In addition, an increase in the line width of 7Li NMR spectrum with increasing milling time is discussed in connection with the line width arising from magnetic cobalt ions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ionic diffusion and conductivity in Li2CuO2 and LiCuO2 have been studied by complex impedance measurements. The conductivity of both samples is largely enhanced with increasing temperature and reaches 10−2–10−1 S/m at around 450 K. X-ray diffraction measurements show that a small amount of CuO phase appears with increasing temperature in both samples. High electric conduction would be ascribed to a complicated mechanism containing the ionic and hole conduction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The temperature dependence of the spin-lattice relaxation time, T 1 and the line width of the 7Li nucleus were measured in delithiated Li x CoO2 (x =0.6, 0.8, 1.0). Two different relaxation behaviors were observed in the temperature dependence of T 1 −1 in a x =0.8 sample. These would have arisen from inequivalent Li sites in two coexisting phases; an original hexagonal (HEX-I) and a modified hexagonal (HEX-II) phase in the x =0.8 sample. We analyzed using a phenomenological non Debye-type relaxation model. Motional narrowing in the line width was observed in each sample, the result revealing that Li+ ions begin to move at low temperature in samples with less Li content. It was found that the activation energy associating with Li+ ion hopping in the HEX-II phase is smaller than that in the HEX-I phase. These results show that the HEX-II phase produced in the Li deintercalation process would be suitable for Li+ ionic diffusion in multi-phase Li x CoO2, and it is expected that this would enable fast ionic diffusion. Li+ ionic diffusion related to phase transition is discussed from 7Li NMR results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Li x V2O5 (0.4< x <1.4) prepared by solid-state reaction were studied by 7Li and 51V NMR spectroscopy. 7Li NMR spectra showed a narrowing of the line width in relation to Li+ionic diffusion. Analysis of Li x V2O5 using a Debye-type relaxation model showed a low activation energy ∼0.07 eV in the sample of x =0.4 below room temperature, and revealed a Li+ionic diffusion with larger activation energy ∼0.5 eV above 450 K in lithium-rich samples. The latter is ascribed to the existence of a multi-phase system comprising stable ɛ- and γ-phases, resulting from complicated phase transitions at high temperature. These shapes and shifts enable the classification of the β-, ɛ-, δ-, and γ-phases. The ionic diffusion of Li+ ions is discussed in relation to the complicated phase transitions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The temperature dependence of the 7Li–NMR line width of LiCuO2 was measured. The line widths were constant at low temperature, while a narrowing in the line widths was observed above 370 K. The results are explained by a model of thermally activated diffusion of Li+ ions. The activation energy for the Li+ ionic diffusion was estimated to be 0.23 eV in LiCuO2, being lower than that in LiCoO2. It indicates that the fast ionic diffusion occurs in LiCuO2. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

With the recent progress in power electronics devices, harmonic pollution in the power system becomes a significant problem. Therefore, a great deal of attention has been paid to harmonic regulations and suppression technologies. As the utility power distribution system becomes broader and more complex, advanced harmonic measurement and analysis technologies are required. This paper presents the advanced measurement system of harmonics in a wide-area distribution system. The proposed measurement system has the following features. The measurement unit it each point in the distribution system consists of a digital signal processor as a high-speed processor and a global positioning system as a synchronization measurement. These units as terminals at multipoints in the distribution system are connected to the central monitoring station by the Internet. By using this system, the harmonic flows in the distribution system are measured and, hence, harmonic modeling can be realized in real time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We adopt first-principle approach to calculate potential energy surfaces for α-quartz and -cristobalite silicon dioxide (SiO2) with hydrogenated impurities in the neutral, positive, and negative charged states. It is expected that H atoms in SiO2 have an important role to generate leakage current paths. In this paper, we calculate stable and unstable positions of a migrating H atom and discuss electrons or holes trapping mechanism. These results clarify that the dynamics of the H atom in the neutral, negative, and positive charged states should be different from one another, and therefore, the mechanism of the dielectric break down of SiO2 also depends on the charged environment. Based on the regional density functional theory, we have calculated the effective charge tensor density of the migrating H atom in the neutral state. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The motion of Li+ defects and the magnetic behavior have been investigated by 7Li-NMR technique. The spin–lattice relaxation time T1, the spin–spin relaxation time T2 and the Knight shift K were measured in delithiated LixNiO2 from 4.2 to 650 K. The motional narrowing observed in delithiated samples above 200 K indicates that a remarkable motion of Li+ defects exists. A contribution from a development of the magnetic correlation between Ni3+ spins appeared in T1−1 and K below 100 K in LiNiO2. The increase for T1−1 and K at low temperatures was strongly suppressed with decreasing x. This implies that nonmagnetic Ni4+ ion produced by vacancies would cut off the magnetic correlation between inter/intra-Ni layer. The increase of vacancies promotes the motion of Li+ defects and substantially varies the magnetic behavior. The magnetic relaxation process arising from Ni3+ spins which is dominant at low temperatures changes into a relaxation process based on the motion of Li+ defects with increasing temperature. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Examines modulation by nitric oxide (NO) of sympathetic neurotransmitter release and vasoconstriction in the isolated pump-perfused rat kidney. Role of NO in various kinds of physiological responses; Infusion of the drug solution; Determination of renal norepinephrine efflux; Evaluation of the effects of NOS inhibitors and other drugs.

We have discussed the gas-phase parasitic reactions in MR3/H2/NH3 (M=Al, Ga, In; R=CH3, C2H5) systems following the elimination of methane or ethane in terms of the regional density functional theory by carrying out ab initio quantum chemical calculations. It is clearly shown that Al source gases enhance reactivity for both of R=CH3 and C2H5. Furthermore, the difference in reactivity between M(CH3)3/H2/NH3 and M(C2H5)3/H2/NH3 systems is discussed. We found that the substitution of ethyl groups for methyl in metal source strengthens the M–N coordination interaction, and the tendency to reduce activation energies of the elimination reaction is observed. However, the steric repulsion between ethyl groups and ammonia, which hardly takes place for R=CH3, raises activation energies in the presence of excess ammonia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper presents experimental results on a new type of current limiter using a model current limiter. This type of current limiter consists of a reactor with two coils reverse wound so as to maintain the noninductive state in the core. A parallel circuit with a power semiconductor switch and a resistor is connected to one of the two coils in series. Maintaining the noninductive condition by turning on the semiconductor switch during the normal loading state, theoretically there is no voltage drop across the limiter, that is, the impedance of the limiter remains at zero. The limiter has a current limiting impedance value during current limiting performance under short circuit conditions. The principle is that, when turning off the semiconductor switch, the resistor is inserted in the circuit, so that the noninductive condition is canceled. The effects of the turn ratio of the reactor winding and the characteristics of the inserted resistor with linear and nonlinear characteristics are experimentally studied. The normal current through a semiconductor is reduced by taking a high winding turn ratio of the coil connected to a semiconductor. On the other hand, the voltage across the semiconductor terminals during the current limiting period increases in proportion to the winding turn ratio of the coil. The current limiting impedance and energy absorption of nonlinear resistors during the current limiting period are numerically analyzed and compared, and a method to determine the optimum winding ratio is proposed. © 2000 Scripta Technica, Electr Eng Jpn, 132(2): 19–28, 2000 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study evaluated the long-term outcomes of eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) treated with aflibercept according to a treat-and-extend (T&E) regimen for up to 5 years. Methods This retrospective study included 112 eyes of 111 patients with nAMD who received aflibercept according to the T&E regimen. The patients received 3 monthly injections of aflibercept followed by a T&E regimen for at least 12 months. Data, including best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), treatment interval, presence of exudation, central retinal thickness, and central choroidal thickness were analyzed. Results: Of the 112 consecutive eyes, 66 completed the 5-year follow-up. After 5 years of treatment, BCVA (logMAR) was significantly better than baseline (0.29 ± 0.31 at baseline and 0.18 ± 0.23 at 5 years, P < 0.01). A mean of 7.0 ± 1.5 injections in the first year and 4.9 ± 2.2 injections per year thereafter were required. In eyes with subretinal hyperreflective material (SHRM) at baseline, BCVA at baseline and 5 years were significantly worse than in eyes without SHRM at baseline and 5 years. However, the eyes with SHRM required fewer injections and exhibited greater BCVA improvement. Conclusion: This retrospective study demonstrated the effectiveness of the T&E regimen with aflibercept in managing nAMD over a 5-year period, maintaining significant improvements in BCVA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The improvement of the cooling-gas velocity distribution over the coil windings in SF6 gas transformer is very important to achieve high quality for designing. In this paper, the application results of the reflective-type ultrasonic wave method to measure the cooling gas distribution in the SP6 gas transformer are reported. This measurement can be performed without disturbance of the gas flow by the presence of the sensors, and this method is demonstrated to be more effective than the conventional fluid velocity measuring method. In this measurement, the velocity of gas flow at some locations in the transformer was not proportional to the volume of the input gas flow. It can be divided into three patterns corresponding to the location as follows. (a) Gas velocity increases with the increase of the input gas flow amount. (b) Gas velocity is constant regardless of the increase of the input gas flow amount. (c) Gas velocity decreases with the increase of the input flow in the first, and changes to increase with the further increase of the input flow. These characteristics are compared with the computational results of gas flow analysis. © 1998 Scripta Technica. Electr Eng Jpn, 122(3): 1–9, 1998 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper shows the basic characteristics of a current-limiting element for the power system using y-type high-Tc superconductor. (1) A Yba2Cu3Ox-type superconductor was produced. Its size was 4.7 x 1.5 x 47 mm. (2) Current I and voltage V were measured under the low temperature of 50 to 100 k. (3) The flow resistance and the resistance of the element were defined and evaluated from the I-V characteristics obtained under the conditions of lower temperature than the critical value Tc,and larger current density than the critical value JC (4) The resistance value change due to temperature rise also was evaluated under the larger current than the critical current. (5) A schematic calculation was tried for practical use in some system condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considers the stereochemistry and the mechanism of the [1,3] sigmatropic silyl shift in allylsilane. Divergence points on the inversion and retention paths; Activation energy along the retention path; Transition states of the [1,3] silyl shift.

Calculates the amount of electron transfer from an initiator to a monomer for the initiation reaction of anionic polymerization by means of the regional density functional theory. Correlation of anionic polymerization with monomer reactivity; Order of the value of anionic polymerization; Correct order of reactivity of the monomer.

Describes an automated wheelchair guided by a magnetic ferrite marker which is relatively free from adverse influence by dirt or mud and permits easy use by severely disabled and older people. Wheelchair permitting free movement indoors and outdoors; Amenities for increased comfort; Other added features for convenience.

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) affects the key parameters of oncogenesis, which increases the cell resistance to apoptosis, the proliferation of cancer cells, angiogenesis, invasion, malignancy, and the ability of tumor cells to respond to anticancer therapy. This study aimed to elucidate the association between IL-6 and IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) expression in tissues and clinical outcomes in patients with soft tissue sarcomas (STSs) because, to our knowledge, this has not been done before. We enrolled 86 patients with histologically-proven localized STSs who underwent surgical resection. The cohort included 48 men and 38 women, with a mean age of 65.6 years. The mean follow-up duration was 40.5 months. The expression of IL-6 and IL-6R was immunohistochemically determined. We analyzed prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) and metastasis-free survival (MFS). High IL-6 expression was observed in 23.3% (20/86), high IL-6R expression in 44.2% (38/86), and high expression of both in 16.3% (14/86) of patients. Multivariate analysis showed that a high expression of both IL-6 and IL-6R was a prognostic factor for OS and MFS. We found that this high expression indicated that the patient had a poor prognosis for OS and MFS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the critical current increase of high-T[sub c] superconductor pipe with coaxial configuration. Effect of external magnetic field on superconductor critical current; Use of glass-ceramic method in superconductor specimen fabrication; Influence of inner bar current flow on pipe critical current increase.

The aim of this study was to evaluate calcium charge and release of conventional glass-ionomer cement (GIC) containing nanoporous silica (NPS). Experimental specimens were divided into two groups: the control (GIC containing no NPS) and GIC-NPS (GIC containing 10 wt % NPS). The specimens were immersed in calcium chloride solutions of 5 wt % calcium concentration for 24 h at 37 °C, whereupon the calcium ion release of the specimens was measured. The calcium ion release behavior of GIC-NPS after immersion in the calcium solution was significantly greater than that of the control. Scanning electron microscopy and electron-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy results indicated that calcium penetrated inside the GIC-NPS specimen, while the calcium was primarily localized on the surface of the control specimen. It was demonstrated that NPS markedly improved the calcium charge and release property of GIC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report first-principle electronic-state calculations for aluminum (Al) nanowires, which receive much attention as a new device material. First-principle calculations of the periodic boundary nanowire models have been carried out by means of supercell approximation techniques with density functional theory. The stable structures of Al nanowires have been investigated by geometry optimization of model structures of various types. For each stable structure, we have discussed the properties of nanowire in detail, such as radius of wire, interatomic distances, and stability for deformation. Furthermore, the growth and the reconstruction of nanowire by adsoprtion of Al atom have been simulated. We have also discussed the electronic processes and the driving forces in the growing process of Al nanowire, in terms of the quantum mechanical energy densities based on the regional density functional theory [Tachibana, J. Chem. Phys. 115, 3497 (2001)]. They have disclosed the driving force of the stability in electronic processes and give new images of microscopic electronic stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have carried out the MRCI ab initio calculations for small lithium and sodium clusters, and elucidate the interaction between atoms in various high-spin electronic states, in terms of the quantum mechanical energy densities based on the regional density functional theory [Tachibana, J. Chem. Phys. 115, 3497 (2001)]. When the separated two electronic drop regions, where the electronic kinetic-energy density is positive, connect to each other, it is observed that ratios of occupation on configurations change rapidly in the Li[sub 2] molecule. These results are considered as one of the evidences that valence electrons can move around both two Li atoms freely in the meaning of classical mechanics. The shape of electronic drop region depends strongly on the electronic state and represents the characteristics of interaction clearly, and the electronic tension density also gives new images of microscopic electronic stresses. Furthermore, we have clarified the most stable structures of Li[sub 3] and Li[sub 4] for the high-spin electronic state, which are respectively different from the most stable structures for the low-spin electronic state. The stabilization energy due to taking in a Li atom is raised gradually as the number of atoms in Li[sub n] cluster increases in the initial stage of cluster propagation. The formation energies of Na[sub 2], Na[sub 3], and Na[sub 4] clusters are much smaller than that of the corresponding lithium clusters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of present study is to develop pharmacokinetic (PK) prediction methods using in silico PK model for oral immediate release drug products (i.e. solution, suspension, and amorphous solid dispersion). A poorly water soluble compound with low bioavailability in rat was used (CS-758 as a model compound). A constructed in silico PK model contained an advance compartmental absorption and transit model. For solution, the in silico PK model reproduced an observed rat plasma concentration (Cp)-time profile. In addition, an in vitro dissolution method was developed to predict a rat Cp-time profile for suspension. As a result, the in silico PK model could predict the observed one by using dissolution profiles as the input. Furthermore, a dissolution profile of amorphous solid dispersion was applied to verify the in silico PK model. A result indicated the simulated rat Cp-time profile was significantly comparable to the observed one. This study demonstrated that the integration of an in silico PK model into dissolution profiles can predict rat Cp-time profiles for suspension and amorphous solid dispersion. These results suggest that the integration of in silico PK modeling approaches into dissolution profiles can contribute to the formulation screening for poorly soluble compounds by predicting PK behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bi-Sb material is regarded as a potential thermoelectric (TE) material for low temperature cooling applications and doping is a commonly used way to modulate the thermoelectric performance of this material. In the present study, graphene (Gr) dopant was introduced into the Bi 85 Sb 15 powder by ball milling and fully densified (Bi 85 Sb 15 ) 1-x Gr x (x = 0.0, 0.02, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0 wt%) solid composites were prepared by spark plasma sintering. The scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy reveal that the inclusion of Gr nanosheets refined the structures, and distributed throughout the grain boundaries and the matrix of the solid Bi-Sb composites, which eventually created more coherent and new interfaces and structural deformities in the matrix of the Bi-Sb alloys. The electric conductivity simultaneously enhanced with Seebeck coefficient, attributed to the increase in carrier concentration and density of state effective mass, respectively. The thermal conductivity is surprisingly increased with graphene doping, especially at high temperature. This is in turning enhanced the TE properties of the (Bi 85 Sb 15 ) 1-x Gr x composites, the highest achieved figure of merit, 0.39 (260 K), is obtained for the sample with 0.5 wt% Gr, which is two times larger than that of the pristine sample, 0.18 (280 K). The improvement in TE properties seems to be promising strategy to be followed up for the potential TE materials with Gr doping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mer proto-oncogene tyrosine kinase (MerTK), which is expressed in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), regulates phagocytosis of shed photoreceptor outer segments (POS). To investigate the effects of drug-induced MerTK inhibition on the retina, UNC569, a specific MerTK inhibitor, was orally administered to male mice at a concentration of 60, 100, or 150 mg/kg for up to 14 days. Furthermore, MerTK inhibition in the retinal tissue sample was examined using a phosphorylation assay following a single dose of UNC569 at 100 mg/kg. In electron microscopic examination, UNC569 at 100 mg/kg or more increased phagosomes and phagolysosomes in the RPE. In addition, UNC569 at 150 mg/kg increased chromatin-condensed nuclei in the outer nuclear layer, indicating the early phase of apoptosis of photoreceptor cells. MiR-183, miR-96, and miR-124, which are enriched in photoreceptor cells, were elevated in the plasma of mice following treatment of 150-mg/kg UNC569, in conjunction with the photoreceptor lesion. Additionally, 100-mg/kg UNC569 inhibited MerTK phosphorylation in the retina. These results suggest that MerTK inhibition impaired phagocytic function of the retina, leading to accumulation of shed POS within the POS layer and increasing phagosomes and phagolysosomes in the RPE to delay POS renewal, resulting in apoptosis of photoreceptor cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the direct joining of superconducting glass-ceramics in the Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O (BSCCO) system by welding with LNG-O[sub 2] flame. Advantage of welding process through flame; Conversion of joined product into a superconductor; Fabrication of large-sized superconducting apparatus.

Studies have recently revealed the linoleic acid metabolic pathway of Lactobacillus plantarum , the representative gut bacterium in human gastrointestinal tract, and the anti-inflammatory effects of metabolites in this pathway. However, no clinical trials have evaluated the association between these metabolites and revascularization in patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent PCI with subsequent revascularization or coronary angiography (CAG) without revascularization. Patients with frozen blood samples at the index PCI and revascularization or follow-up CAG were enrolled. Among 701 consecutive patients who underwent PCI, we enrolled 53 patients who underwent subsequent revascularization and 161 patients who underwent follow-up CAG without revascularization. Patients who underwent revascularization showed significantly lower plasma 10-oxo-octadecanoic acid (KetoB) levels (720.5 [551.6–876.5] vs. 818.4 [641.1–1103.6 pg/mL]; p = 0.01) at index PCI. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that decreased plasma KetoB levels at the index PCI were independently associated with subsequent revascularization after PCI (odds ratio; 0.90 per 100 pg/mL increase, 95% confidence interval; 0.82–0.98). Additionally, in vitro experiments showed that the addition of purified KetoB suppressed the mRNA levels of IL-6 and IL-1β in macrophages and IL-1β mRNA in neutrophils. Plasma KetoB level at index PCI was independently associated with subsequent revascularization after PCI, and KetoB could act as an anti-inflammatory lipid mediator in macrophages and neutrophils. The assessment of gut microbiome-derived metabolites may help predict revascularization after PCI. [Display omitted] • KetoB, lipid metabolites generated from linoleic and oleic acid by gut microbiome. • Lower plasma KetoB level was associated with subsequent revascularization after PCI. • KetoB suppressed the mRNA expression of IL-1β and IL-6 in macrophages. • KetoB suppressed the mRNA expression of IL-1β in neutrophils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have recently revealed the linoleic acid metabolic pathway of Lactobacillus plantarum , the representative gut bacterium in human gastrointestinal tract, and the anti-inflammatory effects of metabolites in this pathway. However, no clinical trials have evaluated the association between these metabolites and revascularization in patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent PCI with subsequent revascularization or coronary angiography (CAG) without revascularization. Patients with frozen blood samples at the index PCI and revascularization or follow-up CAG were enrolled. Among 701 consecutive patients who underwent PCI, we enrolled 53 patients who underwent subsequent revascularization and 161 patients who underwent follow-up CAG without revascularization. Patients who underwent revascularization showed significantly lower plasma 10-oxo-octadecanoic acid (KetoB) levels (720.5 [551.6–876.5] vs. 818.4 [641.1–1103.6 pg/mL]; p = 0.01) at index PCI. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that decreased plasma KetoB levels at the index PCI were independently associated with subsequent revascularization after PCI (odds ratio; 0.90 per 100 pg/mL increase, 95% confidence interval; 0.82–0.98). Additionally, in vitro experiments showed that the addition of purified KetoB suppressed the mRNA levels of IL-6 and IL-1β in macrophages and IL-1β mRNA in neutrophils. Plasma KetoB level at index PCI was independently associated with subsequent revascularization after PCI, and KetoB could act as an anti-inflammatory lipid mediator in macrophages and neutrophils. The assessment of gut microbiome-derived metabolites may help predict revascularization after PCI. [Display omitted] • KetoB, lipid metabolites generated from linoleic and oleic acid by gut microbiome. • Lower plasma KetoB level was associated with subsequent revascularization after PCI. • KetoB suppressed the mRNA expression of IL-1β and IL-6 in macrophages. • KetoB suppressed the mRNA expression of IL-1β in neutrophils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hair diameters and bending stresses were measured for chemically untreated regions of hair close to the scalp, collected from 38 Japanese female (age range: 26–51) and 35 Caucasian female (age range: 20–40) volunteers. For the bending stress measurements, a new methodology to obtain averaged Young's modulus has been developed in which 50 fibres are measured together to give reproducible data, overcoming the individual differences in each hair fibre. By comparing the resulting data of the fibres collected from the panelists younger than 40 years of age, no significant difference in Young's modulus between Japanese and Caucasian hair was recognized, and the modulus was c. 10 GPa, regardless of the hair diameter. On the other hand, there existed cases in which fibres showed lower Young's moduli, and these fibres were from senior panelists who were conscious of the decrease in hair volume and bounce with ageing. This result indicates that the decrease in volume and bounce in hair with ageing is not only caused by a decrease in hair diameter and fewer hairs per square centimetre of scalp but also by some internal change in the hair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon carbide (SiC) is one of the most promising materials for applications in harsh environments thanks to its excellent electrical, mechanical, and chemical properties. The piezoresistive effect of SiC has recently attracted a great deal of interest for sensing devices in hostile conditions. This paper reviews the piezoresistive effect of SiC for mechanical sensors used at elevated temperatures. We present experimental results of the gauge factors obtained for various poly-types of SiC films and SiC nanowires, the related theoretical analysis, and an overview on the development of SiC piezoresistive transducers. The review also discusses the current issues and the potential applications of the piezoresistive effect in SiC. [2015-0092] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Arthrodesis of the carpometacarpal (CM) joint of the thumb has been recognized as a common technique that gives pain relief, stability, and strength, but it has some disadvantages, such as nonunion, pantrapezial osteoarthritis, and reduced mobility. Methods: Thirteen thumbs of 12 patients with CM joint arthritis who underwent CM joint arthrodesis were reviewed retrospectively. The average age of the patients was 61.0 years. The follow-up period ranged from 2 to 5 years. Arthrodesis was performed with a T-plate and an autogenous iliac cancellous bone graft for all patients. Results: All thumbs had radiographic evidence of union, and there was no nonunion. No reduction of motion of the interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb was found after surgery. Postoperatively, scaphotrapeziotrapezoid arthritis and metacarpophalangeal arthritis progressed in two joints each. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score improved from 39.9 (range 8-69) to 11.1 (range 0-23.1). All patients had no or slight problems of the thumb and no complaints related to the pelvis in daily living and were either very satisfied or satisfied with the surgery. Conclusions: Arthrodesis of the thumb CM joint with a plate and bone graft achieved satisfactory results in all cases with very few complications. This procedure is a valuable tool in middle-aged and elderly patients with thumb CM joint arthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Broadband dielectric spectroscopy (BDS) measurements were performed on cotton cloth samples with softener agents in natural environments, and a recent analytical technique of fractal analysis refined in dielectric spectroscopy was used for water structures. Three relaxation processes observed in the GHz, MHz, and kHz regions were attributed to the dynamic behaviors of hydrogen-bonding networks (HBNs) of water and interacting molecules, hydrated polymer chains, and ions restricted in the interfaces of large structures. Fractal analysis of the GHz region suggested that the GHz frequency process was retained, even in the dry state, revealing a broad spatial distribution of HBN fragments of various sizes. This typical tendency for heterogeneous hydration in cotton cloth was emphasized by the addition of a softener agent, as the value of Cole–Cole's relaxation time distribution parameter changed from 0.55 to 0.41. The addition of the softener agent still retained the GHz frequency process, even in the dry state. This result means that the softener inhibited the formation of hydration sites on the cellulose surface and induced the dispersion of hydration sites. Thus, HBNs are fragmented by the softener agent. On the other hand, water molecules still aggregate to retain HBNs in a restricted area. The heterogeneous dispersion of HBN fragments broadens the GHz relaxation process, and the lower-frequency tail overlaps with the lower relaxation process because of chain dynamics with interacting water molecules. The structure formed by these water molecules, which is restricted by polymer chains and related to the stiffening effect of cotton fabric, is also heterogeneously hindered by the appropriate concentration of the softening agent. These indications were also consistent with the T2 relaxation time obtained using the Carr–Purcell–Meiboom–Gill method of nuclear magnetic resonance measurements and are consequently reflected in the hydration model for macroscopic properties of cotton fabric. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To identify a safe entry point for needle insertion in patients with idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), cross-sectional images of the wrist MRI of 45 normal volunteers and 180 consecutive patients with idiopathic CTS were reviewed. Insertion of the needle from the five different entry points into the carpal tunnel was simulated by drawing a 1-pixel line, and the incidence of contact with the median nerve was compared. In the CTS patients, the lowest incidence was 3% when inserted at one-third of the length between the FCR and FCU tendons on the ulnar side at the level of the distal part of the distal radioulnar joint and 4% at the mid point between the palmaris longus tendona and the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon. It was greater in the advanced stage of CTS than the less severe CTS.We recommend those two entry points. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To identify a safe entry point for needle insertion in patients with idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), cross-sectional images of the wrist MRI of 45 normal volunteers and 180 consecutive patients with idiopathic CTS were reviewed. Insertion of the needle from the five different entry points into the carpal tunnel was simulated by drawing a 1-pixel line, and the incidence of contact with the median nerve was compared. In the CTS patients, the lowest incidence was 3% when inserted at one-third of the length between the FCR and FCU tendons on the ulnar side at the level of the distal part of the distal radioulnar joint and 4% at the mid point between the palmaris longus tendona and the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon. It was greater in the advanced stage of CTS than the less severe CTS.We recommend those two entry points. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photovoltaic (PV) generator changes its power output with the weather. If the photovoltaic generator output changes fast, the power system may require more load-following capability and spinning reserve. This paper proposes a method of controlling the change rate of the photovoltaic generator output. The photovoltaic generator is combined with an electric double layer capacitor (EDLC). A moving average is used to eliminate short period fluctuations in the photovoltaic generator output. The output of the power conversion system (PCS) is determined by the moving average. The output changes within a limited rate. The capacitor voltage is maintained at a constant value to make the capacitor as small as possible. The necessary capacitance is theoretically derived. The effectiveness of this method is verified by experiments. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 172(4): 10–18, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20946 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The study is done on the deformation dipole model. By the combined use of the self-consistent field treatment of the local density approximation and the spherical solid model, the numerical calculations are carried out for the dipole polarizability and the deformation dipole tensor of the ions in the rock-salt structure lithium halide crystals. The Szigeti effective charge is obtained from the deformation dipole tensor. The calculated results are compared with those in other alkali halide crystals. The ease of the cation migration is discussed in connection with the deformation dipole tensor of the counter anion. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) functionality is an important determinant of coronary artery disease (CAD) development. We recently developed cholesterol-uptake capacity (CUC), a rapid cell-free assay system that directly evaluates the capacity of HDL to accept additional cholesterol. We aimed to evaluate the association between CUC and revascularization in patients who have undergone percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent PCI with subsequent revascularization or coronary angiography (CAG) without revascularization. The patients who had frozen blood samples for which CUC were measurable at the index PCI and follow-up were enrolled. We finally enrolled 74 patients who underwent subsequent revascularization and 183 patients who underwent follow-up CAG without revascularization. The serum CUC level at the index PCI was significantly lower in the revascularization group than that in the non-revascularization group (84.3 [75.2–98.9] vs. 92.0 [81.6–103.3 A U.]; p = 0.004). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that decreased serum CUC level at the index PCI was independently associated with subsequent revascularization (odds ratio, 0.98; 95% confidence interval, 0.969–1.000). After adjusting for 16 cardiovascular risk factors, the serum CUC level at the index PCI and follow-up and the absolute change in serum CUC level from the index PCI to follow-up were significantly lower in the revascularization group than those in the non-revascularization group. Serum CUC level at index PCI was independently associated with subsequent revascularization after PCI. Continuous assessment of HDL functionality by CUC might help predict subsequent revascularization after PCI. [Display omitted] • Cholesterol-uptake capacity (CUC) is a simple and rapid cell-free assay to evaluate high-density lipoprotein (HDL) functionality. • CUC directly evaluates the capacity of HDL to accept additional cholesterol. • Lower serum CUC at index percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was associated with subsequent revascularization. • Decreased change value in CUC during the follow-up in the revascularization group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]