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Medical illustrations represent a precious resource for learning surgical anatomy and surgical techniques, allowing preoperative and postoperative reviews. As traditional hand-drawn illustrations are difficult to use and expressing the area of neurointerventional surgery is time-consuming, we proposed methods for neurointerventional surgeons to create digital illustrations (DIs) for neurointerventional surgery using the iPad-exclusive Procreate application (Savage Interactive, Hobart, Australia). Dedicated "digital pens" were created and used for each endovascular device, creating straightforward representations of neurointerventional procedures and changes over time. DIs in neurointervention easily depict changes to highlighted surgical scenes for various devices with complex configurations and structures. DIs are also versatile, allowing easy intrainstitutional and interinstitutional sharing and discussion of technical tips on the manipulation of medical devices (coils, catheters, stents, etc.) among neurointerventional surgeons worldwide. DIs can be applied as educational tools not only in neurointerventional surgery, but also in craniotomy surgery and for surgical records from other specialties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have been developing nanosized graphene, called graphene flower, as a material that induces coherent scattering very cold neutrons. Previous experiments have found that the seed part of the graphene flower is more effective than the petal part in increasing the coherent scattering. Based on these results, we found that further modification of the graphene flower to increase the seed portion increased the total cross-section, although it did not reach the level of nanodiamonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Dry eye can compromise corneal astigmatism measurement repeatability during preoperative cataract surgery examination. No previous studies have analyzed the effectiveness of long-acting 3% diquafosol sodium (LA-DQS) on astigmatism measurement repeatability. This research assessed the effect of LA-DQS on astigmatism measurement repeatability in preoperative patients with cataract and short tear break-up time (TBUT) type dry eyes in both eyes of the same patient. Correlations between repeatability and TBUT, corneal high-order aberrations (HOAs), and corneal astigmatism magnitude were also analyzed. Methods: In total, 122 eyes (61 patients) with short TBUT-type dry eye were enrolled. Preoperatively, only one eye of all patients was treated with LA-DQS for 4 weeks. TBUT and corneal HOAs were checked using CASIA 2 before and 4 weeks post-treatment. The cylindrical power and meridian of astigmatism were measured at 3- and 4-week post-treatment using IOLMaster 700. Power vectors J0 and J45 were used for astigmatism calculations. Repeatability of astigmatism measurements was assessed as the within-subject standard deviation (Sw). The relative effects of TBUT and HOAs on J0 Sw and J45 Sw were also analyzed. Comparative changes in these variables were evaluated between treated and non-treated eyes, with additional analysis of their correlations. Results: Treated eyes exhibited significant improvements in TBUT, HOAs, and post-treatment measurements of J0 Sw and J45 Sw at 3 and 4 weeks. In non-treated eyes, J0 Sw and J45 Sw showed significant correlation with TBUT and corneal HOAs. HOAs showed stronger relative associations with J0 Sw and J45 Sw than TBUT. In non-treated eyes, no significant correlation was found between cylindrical power and astigmatism measurement repeatability. Conclusions: In short TBUT-type dry eye, preoperative treatment with LA-DQS significantly improved astigmatism measurement repeatability. This may improve the precision of intraocular lens (IOL) power calculations regardless of the magnitude of corneal astigmatism, especially when toric IOLs are used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate whether polymorphisms of GAS6 and PROS1, which each encode protein ligands for a family of tyrosine kinase receptors, are associated with Behçet's disease (BD) in a Japanese population. Methods: We recruited 734 Japanese patients with BD and 1789 Japanese healthy controls. In all participants, we genotyped two single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) reportedly associated with BD: rs9577873 in GAS6 and rs4857037 in PROS1. Results: We found that GAS6 rs9577873 was not significantly associated with BD. In contrast, PROS1 rs4857037, specifically the A allele, was associated with increased risk for BD. The A allele was also significantly associated with BD under additive and recessive genetic models. Expression analysis revealed that this allele was significantly associated with increased PROS1 expression. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that increased PROS1 expression related to the A risk allele of rs4857037 affects tyrosine kinase receptor signaling, contributing to the development of BD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Although uncommon, incomplete capsulotomy, anterior capsule tags and anterior capsule tears are still encountered during femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS), resulting in surgical complications. This highlights the need to improve femtosecond laser-assisted capsulotomy technique to reduce capsulotomy-related complications. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of a newly developed, modified technique of setting capsulotomy irradiation thickness in lowering the incidence of capsulotomy-related complications in FLACS. Methods: This open-label prospective, comparative cohort study included 440 eyes (220 patients) treated with FLACS using the LenSx laser system (Alcon Laboratories, Inc. Fort Worth, TX, USA). Varying capsulotomy irradiation thicknesses were applied in each eye of the same patient. In Group 1, capsulotomy irradiation thickness was set between the upper edge of the highest point of the anterior capsule and the lower edge of the lowest point of the anterior capsule (modified technique). In Group 2, this was set between the center of the highest point of the anterior capsule and the center of the lowest part of the anterior capsule (conventional technique). Incidence rates of incomplete capsulotomy, anterior capsule tags and tears, and posterior capsule tears were compared. Results: Preoperative baseline characteristics showed no significant differences. Mean total of the irradiation thicknesses was 877.1 ± 81.9 µm in Group 1 and 808.9 ± 80.0 in Group 2, with a statistically significant difference (P < 0.001). Incidences of incomplete capsulotomy were 1.8% and 7.7%, anterior capsule tags were 2.3% and 8.6%, and anterior capsule tears were 0% and 3.2% in Groups 1 and 2, respectively. These differences were statistically significant (P = 0.006, 0.005, and 0.015, respectively). No posterior capsule tears were reported in either group. Conclusion: The modified technique for capsulotomy in FLACS may significantly reduce the occurrence of capsulotomy-related complications, maximizing the benefits of FLACS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is proposed that nanosized graphene aggregation could facilitate coherent neutron scattering under particle size conditions similar to nanodiamonds to enhance neutron intensity below cold neutrons. Using the RIKEN accelerator-driven compact neutron source and iMATERIA at J-PARC, we performed neutron measurement experiments, total neutron cross-section and small-angle neutron scattering on nanosized graphene aggregation. For the first time, the measured data revealed that nanosized graphene aggregation increased the total neutron cross-sections and small-angle scattering in the cold neutron energy region. This is most likely due to coherent scattering, resulting in higher neutron intensities, similar to nanodiamonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HCT) is the only curative treatment for myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), although predicting post-transplant outcomes remains inconclusive. This study evaluated patients who underwent allo-HCT for MDS to identify prognostic factors and develop a clinical risk model. Methods: We evaluated 55 patients between June 2000 and March 2015 to identify prognostic factors and develop a model for three-year overall survival (OS) and event-free survival (EFS). Cox regression analysis was performed on four factors: age ≥55 years; Hematopoietic Cell Transplant-Comorbidity Index >2; intermediate or worse cytogenetic status based on revised International Prognostic Scoring System; and unrelated donor status associated with poor OS in the univariate analysis. A clinical risk model was constructed using the sum of the regression coefficients and evaluated using receiver operating characteristic analysis and five-fold cross-validation. Results: Patient median age was 51 (range: 30–67) years. Median follow-up was 45.8 (range: 1.27–193) months; the three-year OS and EFS rates were 61.8% and 56.4%, respectively. The areas under the curves (AUCs) for OS and EFS were 0.738 and 0.778, respectively, and the average AUC for 50 times five-fold cross-validation were 0.711 and 0.723 for three-year OS and EFS, respectively. Conclusion: A four-clinical-risk-factor model that could effectively predict post-transplantation outcomes and help decision-making in MDS treatment was developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The present study aimed to compare the effects of rebamipide and artificial tears during the perioperative period of cataract surgery on the postoperative visual outcomes. Methods: Seventy-two eyes from 36 patients with a cataract were enrolled. Rebamipide (group R) was administered in one eye and Mytear® artificial tear ophthalmic solution (group A) in the other eye from 4 weeks preoperatively to 3 months postoperatively. Tear breakup time (TBUT), high-order aberrations (HOAs), superficial punctate keratopathy in the central part of the cornea (C-SPK), and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) were assessed at baseline, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after cataract surgery with trifocal intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. Contrast sensitivity and disability glare with visual angle values compatible with spatial frequencies of 1.1, 1.8, 2.9, 4.5, 7.1, and 10.2 cycles/degree (CPD) were evaluated postoperatively. Between-group differences of all variables were analyzed. Results: At baseline, no significant differences in the variables were noted between the two groups. Mean TBUT was significantly higher, while mean C-SPK and HOAs were significantly lower in group R than in group A at each assessment. Mean CDVA was significantly higher at 1 week and 1 month postoperatively in group R compared with group A; this value was not significant at 3 months. Between-group differences in contrast sensitivity and disability glare were statistically significant at all spatial frequencies, 1 week and 1 month postoperatively. At 3 months postoperatively, there were significant differences in contrast sensitivity and disability glare at most spatial frequencies. Conclusion: Dry eye management with rebamipide in the perioperative period of cataract surgery with trifocal IOL implantation was significantly more effective than artificial tears in improving ocular surface condition, contrast sensitivity, and disability glare postoperatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The RANS (RIKEN Accelerator driven Neutron Source), one of compact accelerator neutron sources (CANS), tries to expand its performance by installing a cold neutron which may provide new opportunities in many applications. RANS is a low power CANS with a proton beam of 7 MeV and 100 µA at maximum. A moderator system was constructed based on results of optimization design study with mesitylene. Recently, we have done performance tests aiming at showing characteristics as cold neutron source. Cryogenic mesitylene moderator was installed on a plug with a new target moderator reflector configuration of RANS. Experiment using a gas electron multiplier (GEM) detector was carried out to measure neutron spectra of the cold moderator. This paper describes performance of the cold moderator in terms of 1) Cold neutron gain of optimization design with respect to a polyethylene moderator, 2) Temperature dependency of cold neutron spectrum flux regarding scattering kernel (SK), and 3) comparison between experiment and calculation. A note is given for comparison between calculations with different SKs available. Also, two-dimensional imaging of cold and thermal neutron spectrum flux on the viewed surface is shown with a pinhole slit configuration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Refractive accuracy is crucial for increasing patient satisfaction after cataract surgery. Tear film instability caused by dry eye can lead to inaccurate measurement of corneal power, which is one of the most important factors for postoperative refractive calculation. This study investigated the effect of 2% rebamipide ophthalmic suspension on the predicted refractive accuracy for cataract surgery in patients with dry eye. Methods: This single-center, prospective, open-label study included 35 dry eyes (with tear breakup time < 5 s) who underwent cataract surgery. The patients were treated with rebamipide for 4 weeks before the preoperative examination. In addition to the usual evaluation of biometric variables essential for cataract surgery, tear breakup time (TBUT), superficial punctate keratopathy in the central part of the cornea (C-SPK), corneal higher-order aberrations (HOAs), and predicted postoperative spherical equivalent (P-SE) were evaluated at baseline and 4 weeks after dry eye treatment. The patients' subjective spherical equivalent (S-SE) was evaluated 1 month postoperatively. The difference between S-SE and P-SE was used to assess the accuracy of the P-SE. Improvement in TBUT, C-SPK, HOA, and the accuracy of P-SE after dry eye treatment were analyzed. Results: The accuracy of the biometry readings for the achieved P-SE was within 0.25 D in 42.9% and 54.3%; within 0.5 D in 71.4% and 88.6%; and within 0.75 D in 88.6% and 97.1% of eyes before and after rebamipide treatment, respectively (p < 0.01). TBUT, C-SPK, and HOAs significantly improved after rebamipide treatment (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Rebamipide significantly improved the corneal surface condition and accuracy of the predicted postoperative refraction in dry eyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Passenger lymphocyte syndrome (PLS) is a specific subtype of graft versus host disease (GVHD) following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) characterized by an immune-mediated hemolysis caused by donor-derived B cells. However, precise nature of PLS has not been well characterized due to its rarity. We herein report two cases of PLS following ABO-incompatible HSCT whose clinical course and dynamics of anti-ABO allo-antibody and blood type conversion were closely examined. Both cases demonstrated acute hemolysis upon engraftment, and the presence of high titer allo-antibody against recipients' red blood cells (RBCs) helped us to reach the diagnosis of PLS. Hemolysis in both cases showed spontaneous improvement with prednisolone and supportive therapy including transfusion and fluid support. In one case with blood type O, the patient recursively developed PLS in the second and the third HSCT from ABO-mismatch donors, leading to a hypothesis that original blood type O may serve as a background for acute elevation of serum anti-ABO antibody and therefore a risk for developing PLS in multiple ABO-incompatible HSCTs. When hemolysis is noted following ABO-incompatible HSCTs, PLS should be considered and measurement of anti-ABO antibodies is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Understanding the relationship between postoperative intraocular lens (IOL) shift and refractive change is crucial for the accuracy of predicted postoperative refraction (PPR). We assessed the relationships between different IOL fixation methods, haptic designs, and several metrics. Methods: Single-center, open-label study which included 69 eyes. We preoperatively measured the anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens thickness (LT), axial length (AL), and PPR. AcrySof IQ (n = 27) and FineVision (n = 24) were fixed in the bag, and FEMTIS (n = 18) was fixed in capsulorhexis. At 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month postoperatively, we checked the IOL position and refraction and compared the IOL shift, refraction change, and the margin of error of the predicted PPR (PR-PPR difference). We also analyzed the correlation between postoperative and preoperative variables. Results: FEMTIS showed the highest stability in terms of IOL shift and refraction. The in-the-bag-fixated IOLs showed a significant forward shift between 1 day and 1 week postoperatively. There were significant differences in the PR-PPR difference between the IOLs. ACD and AL showed significant positive correlations, and LT showed a significant negative correlation with IOL shift and change in PR between 1 day and 1 week, but not between 1 week and 1 month postoperatively. Conclusion: The relationship between postoperative IOL shift and refraction change varied according to IOLs with different haptic types. Capsulorhexis fixation may be more stable than in-the-bag fixation. Furthermore, preoperative ACD, LT, and AL may be useful factors to predict IOL shift, change in PR, and to a lesser extent the degree of the margin of error in clinical practice. Our findings may improve the accuracy of PPR and refractive outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study investigated the effect of rebamipide on discrepancies in the power and axis of astigmatism between two intra-patient keratometric measurements in patients with dry eyes. Methods: Fifty-eight dry eyes (with a short tear breakup time [TBUT] of less than 5 s) were analyzed. Patients with dry eye were treated with 2% rebamipide ophthalmic suspension (group R) or Mytear® artificial tear ophthalmic solution (group M) for 4 weeks. TBUT and corneal higher-order aberrations (HOAs) were evaluated at baseline and 4 weeks after treatment. Astigmatism power and axis were measured twice during both evaluations, at 5-min intervals. Baseline and post-treatment measurements were compared. Changes in TBUT and HOAs, and intra-patient discrepancies in astigmatism power and axis measurements were evaluated. Results: HOAs showed significant positive correlations with intra-patient differences in astigmatism power and axis (P < 0.001). At the 4-week post-treatment follow-up, TBUT increased, and HOAs and astigmatism power and axis discrepancies decreased in a significant number of patients in group R (P < 0.001). In group M, only differences in astigmatism power decreased in a significant number of cases (P = 0.005). The degree of change in the intra-patient difference in astigmatism power between the two post-treatment keratometric measurements was significantly greater in group R than in group M (P < 0.001). In group R, baseline HOAs exhibited a significant positive correlation with changes in HOAs and intra-patient differences in astigmatism power (both P < 0.001). In group M, baseline HOAs were only significantly correlated with changes in intra-patient differences in astigmatism power (P = 0.030). Conclusion: In dry eyes with short TBUTs, rebamipide significantly improved the corneal surface condition and significantly reduced intra-patient discrepancies in astigmatism power and axis measurements. Rebamipide may improve the accuracy of intraocular lens (IOL) power calculations in dry eyes, particularly when toric IOLs are implanted. Plain Language Summary: This study investigated the effect of rebamipide on discrepancies in power and axis of astigmatism between two intra-patient keratometric measurements in patients with dry eyes. Short tear break-up time and corneal high-order aberrations were evaluated at baseline and 4 weeks after treatment. Astigmatism power and axis were measured twice at both evaluations. Baseline and post-treatment measurements were compared, and changes in short tear break-up time and high-order aberrations, as well as intra-patient discrepancies in astigmatism power and axis measurements, were evaluated. High-order aberrations at baseline showed significant positive correlations with intra-patient differences in astigmatism power and axis. Rebamipide significantly improved the corneal surface condition and significantly reduced intra-patient discrepancies in astigmatism power and axis measurements. Rebamipide may improve the accuracy of intraocular lens power calculations in dry eyes, particularly when toric intraocular lenses are implanted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Halos are a chief source of patient dissatisfaction after multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of age, postoperative refraction, and pre- and postoperative pupil size on postoperative halo size with a trifocal diffractive IOL (AcrySof IQ PanOptix) and extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) IOL (TECNIS Symfony) to determine whether these factors could predict postoperative halo size. Patients and Methods: This single-center, open-label study conducted between October 2018 and April 2020 in Yokosuka, Japan included 160 patients: 80 with PanOptix and 80 with Symfony IOLs. Size and intensity of the halos were examined binocularly using a computer-based simulator (Eyeland Design Network GmbH) and scored from 0 (minimum) to 10 (maximum) at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively, along with the change in each variable for both IOLs. The respective correlations of halo size with age, postoperative refraction, pre- and postoperative pupil size, and discomfort level due to the halo were also investigated 6 months postoperatively. Results: Halo size and intensity were significantly mitigated between 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. Throughout the observation period, halo size was significantly larger with PanOptix than with Symphony (P < 0.05), and halo intensity was significantly higher with Symphony than with PanOptix (P < 0.05). The pre- and postoperative pupil size correlated positively with halo size, while age and postoperative refraction were negatively correlated, for both IOLs. Conclusion: Understanding the features and predictive preoperative factors of halos in different types of multifocal IOLs may be useful in improving patient satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid recurrence of a pilocytic astrocytoma with anaplastic transformation is extremely rare. The case of an elderly patient with a cerebellar pilocytic astrocytoma with anaplastic transformation during short-term follow-up is reported. An 83-year-old woman presented initially with dizziness and a gait deviation to the right. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a homogeneously enhanced mass in the right cerebellar hemisphere, and the tumor was subtotally removed by right suboccipital craniotomy. Histologic examination showed that the tumor cells contained eosinophilic cytoplasm and spindle-shaped processes with Rosenthal fibers and eosinophilic granular bodies, diagnosed as a typical pilocytic astrocytoma (PA). The MIB-1 index was <1%. The patient did not receive postoperative adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy. Two months after surgery, magnetic resonance imaging showed growth of the residual tumor adjacent to the fourth ventricle, causing obstructive hydrocephalus. She underwent surgery again, and the tumor was totally removed. Histologic findings showed mitotic cells and increased cellularity compared with the primary tumor, which was compatible with anaplastic transformation of PA with a MIB-1 index of 50%. Postoperatively, she was observed with best supportive care without postoperative adjuvant therapy. Nine months after the second operation, she died due to tonsillar herniation and obstructive hydrocephalus caused by a recurrent tumor. An autopsy was performed. It is extremely rare, as in the present case, that a cerebellar PA in an elderly patient recurs rapidly with anaplastic transformation, despite deferred postoperative adjuvant therapy including radiation and chemotherapy. A novel molecular-targeted therapy is needed for anaplastic PA showing aggressive biological behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analysis of gene expression in single cells is required to understand somatic cell reprogramming into human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). To facilitate this, we established intermediately reprogrammed stem cells (iRSCs), pre‐iPSC lines. The iRSC‐iPSC conversion system enables the reproducible monitoring of reprogramming events and the analysis of progressive gene expression profiles using single‐cell microarray analysis and genome editing. Here, single‐cell microarray analysis showed the stage‐specific sequential gene activation during the conversion of iRSCs into iPSCs, using OCT4, TDGF1 and E‐CADHERIN as marker genes. Out of 75 OCT4‐related genes, which were significantly up‐regulated after the activation of OCT4, and entry into the mesenchymal‐to‐epithelial transition (MET), LIN28 (LIN28A) and FOXO1 were selected for applying to gene expression visualization. Multicolored visualization was achieved by the genome editing of LIN28 or FOXO1 with mCherry into OCT4‐GFP iRSCs. Fluorescent analysis of gene activity in individual cells showed that OCT4 was dispensable for maintenance, but required for activation, of the LIN28 and FOXO1 expression in reprogramming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many women experience depressive symptoms during pregnancy and postpartum periods. These depressive symptoms are often accompanied by other inflammatory morbidities present during pregnancy. Tryptophan (TRP) metabolism has attracted considerable attention due to its influence on the onset of depression via induction of inflammation. We examined the changes in plasma levels of TRP metabolites in pregnant women with depressive symptoms during pregnancy and/or the postpartum period.Methods: In line with a previous analysis using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), participants were divided into a non-depressive (ND) group, a postpartum depressive (PD) group, a temporary gestational depressive (TG) group, and a continuous depressive (CD) group. Blood samples were collected before and 1 month after delivery. The concentrations of plasma TRP metabolites were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).Results: There are differences in plasma levels of TRP metabolites during pregnancy and postpartum periods between the ND group and the PD group, but not the TG or CD group. In the PD group, plasma levels of kynurenine (KYN) and kynurenic acid (KA), and KYN/TRP and KA/KYN ratio during the pregnancy period were higher and 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid (3HAA) during the postpartum period was lower than those in the ND group.Limitations: Histories regarding mood disorders before pregnancy were not assessed.Conclusions: The higher plasma levels of KYN and KA, and KYN/TRP and KA/KYN ratio during pregnancy period and lower plasma level of 3HAA during the postpartum period could be useful predictive and diagnostic markers of postpartum depressive symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nano-diamond is an attractive neutron reflection material below cold neutron energy. The total neutron cross section of a nano-diamond produced using the detonation explosive technique was derived from a neutron transmission measurement over the neutron energy range of 0.2 meV to 100 meV because total neutron cross section data were not available. The total cross section of a nano-diamond with particle size of approximately 5 nm increased as the neutron energy decreased to 0.2 meV. It was approximately two orders of magnitude larger than that of carbon at 0.2 meV. The contribution of inelastic scattering to the total cross section was shown to be negligibly small at neutron energies of 1.2, 1.5, 1.9, 2.6, and 5.9 meV in inelastic neutron scattering measurements. Moreover, small-angle neutron scattering measurements of the nano-diamond showed a large scattering cross section in the forward direction at low neutron energies. • Nano-diamond is attractive neutron reflection material below cold neutron energy. • Total cross section increased as the neutron energy decreased to 0.2 meV. • Approximately two orders of magnitude larger than that of carbon at 0.2 meV. • Contribution of inelastic neutron scattering was negligible small. • Large scattering in forward direction from small-angle neutron scattering measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adiponectin secreted from adipocytes into plasma has anti‐aging, anti‐obesity and anti‐inflammation effects. Here, we detected intracellular adiponectin localized in the nuclei of human and mouse pluripotent stem cells, mouse germ cells and some somatic cells. Nucleus‐localized (Nu) adiponectin protein is characterized by an N‐terminal truncated monomer form in a native state, compared with intact multimer forms of cytoplasm‐localized (Cy) adiponectin protein. Doxycycline‐induced over‐expression of ADIPONECTIN caused cell death in human and mouse Nu‐type pluripotent stem cells. Genome‐wide gene expression analysis indicated that apoptosis by ADIPONECTIN over‐expression was induced in accompany with upregulation of AIFM2 and MEG3. Upregulation of AIFM2 and MEG3 and down‐regulation of miR‐214‐3p verified by qPCR analyses after ADIPONECTIN over‐expression indicated that the MEG3/miR‐214/AIFM2 pathway played a role in the apoptotic cell death of pluripotent cells. Adiponectin‐induced cell death was rescued by the treatment with miR‐214‐3p mimic. Global data analysis shows that Nu adiponectin has a role in microRNA‐mediated post‐transcription regulation, cell–cell interactions and chromatin remodeling as a survival gatekeeper. Adiponectin localized in nuclei of some somatic cells, germ cells and pluripotent stem cells is characterized by a truncated form by the missing of N‐terminal region. Doxycycline‐induced over‐expression of ADIPONECTIN/Adiponectin in human and mouse pluripotent stem cells induced cell death through the MEG3/miR‐214/AIFM2 pathway. Nuclear ADIPONECTIN/Adiponectin play a role in post‐transcription regulation, cell–cell interaction and chromatin remodeling as a survival gatekeeper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigates the influences of initial nitridation and buffer layer deposition on the morphology of a (0001) GaN layer grown on sapphire substrates. Information on GaN; Details on the buffer layer deposition technique; Results of the experiment used in the investigation.

Background: Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis associated with autoimmune diseases is seen in patients with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, adult-onset Still's disease, and systemic lupus erythematosus, whereas it is rarely seen in patients with dermatomyositis. In addition, central nervous system involvement with dermatomyositis is rare. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis complicated by leukoencephalopathy in a patient with dermatomyositis accompanied with peripheral T-cell lymphoma.Case Presentation: A 17-year-old Asian male adolescent with dermatomyositis and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis that were controlled with corticosteroid therapy presented to our hospital with high fever and altered consciousness. Brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed multiple cerebral lesions. We diagnosed the central nervous system lesions as leukoencephalopathy secondary to dermatomyositis and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Because corticosteroid and cyclophosphamide pulse therapy was ineffective, he was treated with a modified hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis-2004 protocol, which resulted in the disappearance of the lesions of his central nervous system.Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis-2004 protocol including etoposide should be initiated immediately in patients with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis who respond poorly to treatment for the underlying disease. Moreover, irrespective of the underlying disease, patients with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis with central nervous system lesions might require bone marrow transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the influence of pupil dilation on predicted postoperative refraction (PPR) and recommended intraocular lens (IOL) power to obtain target postoperative refraction calculated by using the third- and fourth-generation IOL power calculation formulas with a new optical biometer.Methods: This retrospective study included 162 eyes with cataract that underwent uneventful phacoemulsification with IOL implantation. PPR, recommended IOL power, anterior chamber depth (ACD), and lens thickness (LT) were measured pre- and post-pupil dilation. The change in PPR detected by using third-generation (Hoffer Q and SRK/T) and fourth-generation formulas (Haigis and Holladay 2) and the changes in ACD and LT were evaluated pre- and postdilation. The influence of dilation on the recommended IOL power calculated by each formula was analyzed.Result: ACD and LT significantly changed from pre- to postdilation. The mean absolute change in PPR between pre- and postdilation was significantly higher for fourth-generation formulas compared with third-generation formulas. The change in PPR between pre- and postdilation showed a significantly positive correlation with change in ACD and a significantly negative correlation with change in LT with fourth-generation formulas, but not with third-generation formulas. The discrepancy rate of recommended IOL power between pre- and postdilation calculated by fourth-generation formulas was significantly higher than that calculated by third-generation formulas.Conclusion: ACD and LT significantly changed by dilation. PPR and recommended IOL power significantly changed more by dilation when using fourth-generation formulas compared with third-generation formulas. Given the significant correlations of the change in PPR (between the pre- and postdilation) in the fourth-generation formulas and the changes in ACD and LT, the latter changes may be key in influencing dilation in the fourth-generation power calculation. Knowledge of the influence of dilation on fourth-generation formulas could help improve IOL calculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Liquid hydrogen moderators composed of 99.8% parahydrogen associated with light-water premoderator at the J-PARC pulsed spallation neutron source have demonstrated high performance in the extraction of high intensity cold and thermal neutron beams. In the design stage, simulations have shown not only high total neutron intensity in the coupled moderator but also a local neutron-brightness increase at its edges. The edge-effect-brightness increase is also exploited in the design of the European Spallation Source (ESS) moderators, which are also based on 99.8% parahydrogen, but are thin (thickness: 3 cm) to further increase brightness. In this study, the spatial distribution of the neutron brightness at the surface of the coupled moderator in the J-PARC pulsed spallation neutron source was directly measured to experimentally validate the calculated edge-brightness enhancement. The brightness distribution at the moderator surface predicted by Monte Carlo simulation was clearly observed. As a result, the validity of the simulation tools used in the design-optimization process of the J-PARC and ESS moderator is confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the influence of pupil dilation on predicted postoperative refraction (PPR) and recommended intraocular lens (IOL) power to obtain target postoperative refraction calculated by using the third- and fourth-generation IOL power calculation formulas with a new optical biometer.Methods: This retrospective study included 162 eyes with cataract that underwent uneventful phacoemulsification with IOL implantation. PPR, recommended IOL power, anterior chamber depth (ACD), and lens thickness (LT) were measured pre- and post-pupil dilation. The change in PPR detected by using third-generation (Hoffer Q and SRK/T) and fourth-generation formulas (Haigis and Holladay 2) and the changes in ACD and LT were evaluated pre- and postdilation. The influence of dilation on the recommended IOL power calculated by each formula was analyzed.Result: ACD and LT significantly changed from pre- to postdilation. The mean absolute change in PPR between pre- and postdilation was significantly higher for fourth-generation formulas compared with third-generation formulas. The change in PPR between pre- and postdilation showed a significantly positive correlation with change in ACD and a significantly negative correlation with change in LT with fourth-generation formulas, but not with third-generation formulas. The discrepancy rate of recommended IOL power between pre- and postdilation calculated by fourth-generation formulas was significantly higher than that calculated by third-generation formulas.Conclusion: ACD and LT significantly changed by dilation. PPR and recommended IOL power significantly changed more by dilation when using fourth-generation formulas compared with third-generation formulas. Given the significant correlations of the change in PPR (between the pre- and postdilation) in the fourth-generation formulas and the changes in ACD and LT, the latter changes may be key in influencing dilation in the fourth-generation power calculation. Knowledge of the influence of dilation on fourth-generation formulas could help improve IOL calculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY High penetration of renewable generation systems will lead to supply-demand imbalances, and will also require output curtailment of renewable power plants. We focused on management of electric vehicle fleet charging which can promote charging during specific time zone for reducing this curtailment. In this study, we evaluated the Charging Promoting Potential (CPP) of passenger electric vehicles (EVs) using optimization model based on the mixed-integer linear programming. In addition, we also evaluated the CPP of other EVs, such as electric buses and electric trucks. We found that wider zone of the charging promoting time led effective concentration of charging load. Furthermore, we found that the CPP of the electric buses is higher than those of the passenger EVs and electric trucks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By sampling gaseous hydrogen from a circulating liquid hydrogen loop for Laser Raman spectroscopy, we measured the para-/ortho-hydrogen fractions in liquid hydrogen under neutron irradiation for the first time to identify whether irradiated hydrogen has an elevated ortho-hydrogen fraction. This measurement indicates that para-hydrogen equilibrium persists at 300 kW proton power in the presence of an iron(III) oxide hydroxide [Fe(OH) 3 ] catalyst. The measurements will be repeated as the power at the Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex (J-PARC) increases to the MW level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The liquid mercury target system for the Japan Spallation Neutron Source (JSNS) began operating in May 2008. A mercury target vessel composed of type 316L stainless steel suffers radiation damage in the proton and neutron environment. In addition to this damage, the inner wall of the target vessel in contact with mercury is damaged by cavitation-induced erosion, which is caused by rarefied pressure waves. The target vessel was replaced with a new target in November 2011, because the pneumatic bellow type flange was damaged during the Great East Japan Earthquake, that occurred on March 11, 2011. Before replacing the target, 50mm diameter disk specimens were cut from the beam window of the target vessel in order to investigate the cavitation damage inside the target vessel and to evaluate the change in the mechanical properties due to radiation damage. A video camera was used to inspect the inside of the target vessel and no flow induced erosion damage was detected on the flow guide by visual inspection. Cavitation damage from the proton pulse was concentrated at the center and approximately 15mm from the center of the beam window. In addition, the depth of the cavitation damage was quantitatively measured using a laser profilometer and a metallurgical surface replica. Based on the detailed measurements, it was concluded that the eroded damage depth of the beam window was 250μm after 475MWh of operation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In order to utilize the Au–In–Cd alloy as a decoupler for the MW-class spallation neutron sources, it is required to bond Au–In–Cd alloy to an aluminum alloy (A5083), which from the structural material of the moderator in the Japan Spallation Neutron Source. The hot isostatic pressing (HIP) technique is adopted to bond the Au–In–Cd alloy to the A5083 alloy in the form of the curved shape of the moderator vessel. We obtained an adequate bonding strength of 95.2MPa, which was three times larger than the required design strength (30MPa) under the conditions of a temperature of 535°C, pressure of 100MPa and a holding time of 1h. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background and Purpose In the spinal cord injury ( SCI) axon regeneration is inhibited by the glial scar, which contains reactive astrocytes that secrete inhibitory chondroitin sulphate proteoglycan ( CSPG). We previously reported that a novel compound, denosomin, promotes axonal growth under degenerative conditions in cultured cortical neurons. In this study, we investigated the effects of denosomin on functional recovery in SCI mice and elucidated the mechanism though which denosomin induces axonal growth in the injured spinal cord. Experimental Approach Denosomin was administered p.o. for 7 or 14 days to contusion mice. Behavioural evaluations and immunohistochemistry were done. Primary cultured cortical neurons and astrocytes were treated with denosomin to investigate the mechanism of axonal growth facilitation. Key Results Denosomin improved hind limb motor dysfunction and axonal growth, especially in the 5- HT-positive tracts across the scar and increased the density of astrocytes. Denosomin increased astrocyte proliferation, inhibited astrocytic death and increased the expression and secretion of vimentin in cultured astrocytes. Furthermore, vimentin increased axonal outgrowth in cultured neurons, even in the presence of inhibitory CSPG. Denosomin increased the number of vimentin-expressing astrocytes inside glial scars of SCI mice, and 5- HT-positive axonal growth occurred in a vimentin-associated manner. Conclusion and Implications Denosomin increased the ratio of astrocytes that secrete vimentin as an axonal growth facilitator, which, we propose enhances axonal growth beyond the glial scar and promotes functional recovery in SCI mice. This study is the first to demonstrate this novel role of vimentin in SCI and drug-mediated modification of the inhibitory property of reactive astrocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A plan of 2nd moderator fabrication in JSNS is under way. In terms of low thermal expansion, invar joints, such as Invar-Al and Invar-SS316L joints, were developed by friction welding method as a component of hydrogen transfer line. Mechanical tests such as tensile tests, were carried out at room and cold (77K) temperature conditions. Especially, Invar-SS316L joint gave high tensile strength (yield strength: ca. 20% higher and ultimate strength: ca. 2.5times higher) and large strain at 77K, and fractured not at bonding interface but at base metal of invar. In case of Invar-Al joint, it also gave high yield strength, but fracture was occurred at bonding interface. However, these joints will be available for component of hydrogen transfer line. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Japan Spallation Neutron Source (JSNS) at the Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex (J-PARC) has been developed as a 1-MW spallation neutron source. Ag–In–Cd (AIC) alloy was used as the decoupler material in two decoupled moderators, which allowed high decoupling energies of 1eV to be achieved for the first time in a MW-class spallation neutron source. Although the AIC decoupler is superior in neutronic performance, it has the disadvantage of high residual radioactivity resulting from the production of Ag-110m (T 1/2 (half-life)=250d) and Ag-108m (T 1/2 =418yr). A Au–In–Cd alloy has been proposed as a solution to this problem, as the neutronic performance of this alloy is sufficiently high for it to act as a decoupler. By diffusion of Cd into Au at a maximum temperature of 1123K, we successfully produced this ternary Au–In–Cd alloy. Then, we confirmed the compositional uniformity of the alloy by energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. The thermal conductivity, Young’s modulus, and stress at 0.2% strain of the Au–In–Cd alloy were 87.7W/m/K, 80GPa, and 160MPa, respectively. These results demonstrated the possibility of using this alloy as a decoupler. Further study of the Au–In–Cd alloy is in progress. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

For one-component fluids, we examine the predrying phase transition between a thin and thick low-density layer in liquid on a wall repelling the fluid. This is the case of a hydrophobic wall for water. A predrying line starts from the coexistence curve and ends at a surface critical point in the phase diagram. We calculate this line numerically using the van der Waals model and analytically using the free-energy expansion up to the quartic order. We also examine the predrying dynamics of a layer created on a hydrophobic spot on a heterogeneous wall. It is from a thin to thick layer during decompression and from a thick to thin layer during compression. Upon the transition, a liquid region above the film is cooled for decompression and heated for compression due to latent heat convection, and a small pressure pulse is emitted from the film into the liquid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: When an intense pulsed proton beam with a power of 1MW is irradiated to a mercury target, a pressure wave caused by the proton beam gives a vibration on the target vessel. Pitting damage also occurs on the target vessel, especially incident beam area, resulting in shortening of a life-time. It is very important to monitor the vibration of the target vessel from the view point of the life-time estimation. We developed the target vessel diagnosis system using laser Doppler method and successfully installed it in an actual pulsed spallation source. The diagnosis system consists of retro-reflecting corner-cube mirror (reflective mirror) on the target, mirror assembly in a reflector plug and laser source-detector. The newly developed reflective mirror, made by nickel, was installed by vacuum silver brazing on the target vessel to detect the target vibration. In order to pass the laser beam to the target vessel, a mirror assembly was installed inside the reflector plug. It is replaceable using a remote handling machine during a maintenance period. Nd-YAG laser beam (wave length: 533nm) with the power of 50mW was adopted to detect the target vibration. The first proton beam to the target in the spallation neutron source (JSNS) was provided on 30 May 2008. The first signal related to the target vibration was also detected by using this target vessel diagnosis system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Japan Spallation Neutron Source (JSNS) at the Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex (J-PARC) has started its operation on May 30, 2008. The Ag–In–Cd (AIC) alloy was adopted as a decoupler material for two decoupled moderators. A high decoupling energy at 1eV was for the first time achieved in MW-class spallation neutron sources due to the adoption of the AIC alloy. Although the AIC decoupler is superior in the neutronic performance, it has a demerit in high residual radioactivity due to production of Ag-110m (half life: 250days) and Ag-108m (half life: 418years). To overcome this demerit, we studied on possibilities of a low activation decoupler material with high decoupling energy as the AIC alloy, that is, Au–In–Cd (AuIC) alloy. Neutronic performance of this material was investigated by using neutronics calculations. As a result, it was found that the AuIC decoupler could provide neutron pulses with almost the same characteristics as those for the AIC decoupler even when the burn-up effects were considered. Excellent low activation property of the AuIC alloy to the AIC alloy was demonstrated by residual radioactivity calculations. On viewpoint of neutronics performance, it was concluded that the AuIC decoupler was available as the substitute of the AIC decoupler. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Sjogren's syndrome can cause many organic changes, but is rarely accompanied by pleuritis. We report a 65-year-old patient with primary Sjogren's syndrome who developed bilateral pleuritis with moderately large effusions. He was diagnosed as having Sjogren's syndrome, based on xerophthalmia, xerostomia, positive results for anti-Sjogren's syndrome (anti-SS-A/SS-B) antibodies, the Schirmer test and biopsy findings in the minor salivary glands. The pleural fluid was lymphocyte rich and contained high levels of anti-SS-A/SS-B antibodies. There was no evidence of infection, malignancy or other collagen diseases which cause pleuritis. We conclude that this case adds to the eight previously published reports of primary Sjogren's syndrome complicated by pleural effusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Thermal diffusivity measurements for hafnium hydrides (HfH x ) with different hydrogen concentrations (α+δ’-HfH0.20, α+δ’-HfH0.92, α+δ’-HfH1.15, δ’-HfH1.48, δ’-HfH1.57, δ-HfH1.70, δ+ɛ-HfH1.76, ɛ-HfH1.88 and ɛ-HfH2.02) were carried out within the temperature range of 290–570K by means of a laser-flash method. The temperature dependence of the thermal diffusivity for α+δ’-HfH0.20 was the result of a mixture of a hexagonal α-phase and a slightly deformed face-centered cubic (fcc) δ’-phase structure that was similar to that observed in α-Hf. The thermal diffusivities for HfH0.92–2.02 at temperatures below 373K drastically changed due to the phase transformation, while those at temperatures above 373K remained almost the same, 0.06–0.08cm2/s, which is approximately half that of α-Hf. In particular, the thermal diffusivities for δ’-HfH1.48 and δ’-HfH1.57 changed between 360 and 390K with the conversion to an ideal fcc structure in the δ-phase. The temperature dependence of the thermal conductivities for α+δ’-HfH0.20, α+δ’-HfH0.92, δ’-HfH1.48, δ-HfH1.70 and ɛ-HfH2.02 were evaluated by way of calculations from the experimental thermal diffusivity data and reference data for the specific heat and density. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The authors topically administered gatifloxacin (GFLX) into the eye before cataract surgery and measured the concentrations of this agent to determine its penetration into aqueous humor. Seventy-seven patients with age-related cataracts who underwent cataract surgery were enrolled in this study. They received 0.3% GFLX ophthalmic solution 4 times at 30-min intervals, beginning 2 h before surgery. Aqueous humor was aspirated from the anterior chamber and assayed for GFLX concentration using high-performance liquid chromatography. The mean intraoperative GFLX concentration in aqueous humor was 0.485 ± 0.328 μ g/mL. GFLX level was 0.573 ± 0.367 μ g/mL in elderly patients, at least 70 years of age, and was significantly higher than that (0.322 ± 0.135 μ g/mL) in the patients less than 70 years old. This concentration was close to or higher than the minimum inhibitory concentrations required to inhibit the growth of 90% of major pathogens of endophthalmitis (MIC90), such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Enterococcus faecalis associated with poor prognosis, other than Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and MRSA (methicillin-resistant S. aureus) in vitro. The GFLX concentrations found in aqueous humor samples were sufficient to kill bacteria other than S. epidermidis, P. aeruginosa, and MRSA in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: X-ray diffraction and diffuse reflection IR spectroscopic measurements have been carried out on amorphous NaCl–glucose mixtures, a-(NaCl) x (glucose)1−x , with x =0, 0.05, 0.1 and 0.15, in order to obtain structural information on the intermolecular hydrogen-bonded interaction between glucose molecules affected by the presence of NaCl. The difference distribution function Δg inter(r) was derived from the Fourier transform of the difference intermolecular interference term Δi inter(Q) between X-ray intermolecular interference terms observed from amorphous NaCl-glucose and pure glucose samples. A negative peak appears at r ≈2.5Å in the Δg inter(r) observed for the 10mol% NaCl sample, while, the Δg inter(r) for the 15mol% NaCl sample does not show pronounced negative peak. On the other hand, the IR spectra for the O–H stretching region (2300⩽ ν ⩽3800cm−1) indicate that hydrogen bonds between glucose molecules are significantly collapsed in the samples containing 5–15mol% NaCl. These results imply that the contribution from the Na+⋯Cl− contact ion pair is dominated in the 15mol% NaCl sample. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: To develop Ag (silver)–In (indium)–Cd (cadmium) alloy decoupler, a method is needed to bond the decoupler between Al alloy (Al5083) and the ternary Ag–In–Cd alloy. We found that a better HIP condition was temperature, pressure and holding time at 803K, 100MPa and 10min. for small test pieces (ϕ22mm in dia.×6mm in height). Hardened layer due to the formation of AlAg2 was found in the bonding layer, however, the rupture strength of the bonding layer is more than 30MPa, the calculated design stress. Bonding tests of a large size piece (200×200×30mm3), which simulated the real scale, were also performed according to the results of small size tests. The result also gave good bonding and enough required-mechanical-strength. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: To develop a Ag (silver)–In (indium)–Cd (cadmium) alloy decoupler, a method is needed to bond the decoupler between two plates of the Al alloy (A6061-T6). We found that a better HIP condition was temperature, pressure and holding time at 803K, 100MPa and 1h, respectively, for small test pieces (ϕ 22mm in diam.×5mm in height). Especially, a sandwich case (a Ag–In plate with thickness of 0.5mm between two Ag–Cd plates with thickness of 1.25mm) gave easier (or better) bonding results. Though a hardened layer is found in the bonding layer, the rupture strength of the bonding layer is more than 30MPa, which is higher than the design stress in our application. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Kaneko T, Teshigawara O, Sugimoto H, Hirota M, Inoue S, Takeda S, Nakao A. Signal intensity of the liver parenchyma in microbubble contrast agent in the late liver phase reflects advanced fibrosis of the liver.Liver International 2005: 25: 288–293© Blackwell Munksgaard 2005Microbubble of Levovist accumulates in liver parenchyma, and the phenomenon has been reported as late liver-specific parenchymal. The aim of the present study was to compare the parenchymal enhancement effect of Levovist with the degree of liver dysfunction.Sixty consecutive patients who consented to be treated were enrolled in this study. Pulse-inversion ultrasonography (US) in the liver parenchymal phase of enhancement with Levovist was performed in a preoperative examination. The mechanical index of pulse-inversion US was set at 1.3. The gray-scale intensity of the non-tumor area of the liver parenchyma at the level of the focal zone was measured. The hepatic fibrosis index was measured in each liver by morphometric analysis. The correlation between the gray-scale intensity of the non-tumor area of the liver parenchyma and the hepatic fibrosis index was assessed.There was a significant inverse correlation between the gray scale of the liver parenchyma and the hepatic fibrosis index (r=−0.809,P<0.01). The average signal intensity of the liver parenchyma was 144.5 in a normal liver, 133.6 in chronic hepatitis, and 102.6 in liver cirrhosis, demonstrating a significant difference between a normal and cirrhotic liver (P<0.01).The signal intensity of a microbubble disruption of the liver parenchyma in the late phase of enhancement with Levovist was considered to reflect the degree of hepatic fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Regulation of hepatic gene expression is important for energy homeostasis. We now show that hepatic expression of the gene for the transcription factor Krüppel-like factor 15 (KLF15) is increased by food deprivation and reduced by feeding in mice. Expression of the KLF15 gene in mouse liver was also down-regulated by a euglycemic–hyperinsulinemic clamp and was increased by inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. In cultured rat hepatocytes, KLF15 gene expression was induced by dexamethasone and a non-hydrolyzing analog of cAMP, and this effect was inhibited by insulin in a manner dependent on phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase signaling. Forced expression of KLF15 in cultured hepatocytes increased both the expression and the promoter activity of the gene for phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK). These results suggest that insulin and its counteracting hormones regulate the hepatic expression of KLF15, and that this transcription factor contributes to the regulation of PEPCK gene expression in the liver. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This article proposes a new framework for performance-based design (PBD) of building structures. This framework was proposed under the 3-year Japanese Government Comprehensive Research and Development Project on“Development of a New Engineering Framework for Building Structures” launched in the fiscal year of 1995. The primary objective of the project is to create a system in which the performance of buildings is clearly stated, and consumers, that is, occupants, are well informed of how their buildings will perform and how much it will cost to maintain their performance. The framework emphasizes the establishment of target performance, the performance evaluation, and the performance statement as the main three elements. It also stresses that an institutional framework and support systems need to be provided to enable PBD to be practiced efficiently. The implementation of the proposed framework is also expected to promote engineering innovation, progress in building engineering, and globalization. The new framework will also bring other benefits, such as improved design techniques, greater design flexibility, and international harmonization. It is also important for building structural performance to become one of the most important indexes for consumers to define a building's value. The Japanese building code was changed to the performance-based code, based in the clear and comprehensive manner proposed in this article. In the United States,“Vision 2000” () was published, then many research activities were conducted simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrogen concentrations in δ-phase titanium hydrides (δ-TiHx: 1.6), prepared by means of Sieverts apparatus, have been measured by means of elastic recoil detection (ERD) and neutron radiography (NRG) methods which are non-destructive hydrogen analyses. It is concluded that the hydrogen concentration in TiHx is determined by the ERD measurement with an accuracy of ±0.05. The hydrogen concentrations in the hydrides with various H/Ti ratios have been also estimated by combining the NRG data with a general Monte Carlo neutron-particle transport code, where the neutron scattering process during the NRG measurement is simulated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) is caused by human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) after a long latent infection. HTLV-1 induces the indolent or aggressive type of leukemia in 5% of HTLV-1 carriers. ATL, especially the aggressive type, is resistant to multi-agent chemotherapy. The indolent type often progresses to the aggressive type. Even in the most indolent-type cases, that is, smoldering ATL, the average survival time is 55.0 months. Case Presentation: Five patients with ATL were followed up for their clinical course after amplified natural killer cell (ANK) therapy. Four patients who received ANK therapy as first-line therapy achieved complete remission and showed long-term survival without aggressive conversion or relapse for more than 5 years. One patient was treated with multiagent chemotherapy due to acute exacerbation but relapsed 2 months later. She was subsequently treated with radiation and ANK therapy and survived for more than 6 years. Furthermore, ANK therapy enhanced the immune function of ATL patients to a level higher than that of normal individuals. Conclusions: ANK therapy has great potential as first-line treatment for ATL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Biomarkers to predict outcomes were assessed from the clinico-statistical approach. • A prospective multicenter observational study was performed. • Six promising biomarkers were successfully identified and validated. • C-reactive protein to platelet ratio was a novel biomarker to predict transplant outcomes. Various biomarkers have been developed and evaluated to predict the prognosis and complications of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). Most previous studies conducted on different biomarkers evaluated single effects such as those associated with inflammation, immunology, iron metabolism, and nutrition, and only a few studies have comprehensively analyzed markers. The study aimed to survey comprehensive multiple markers prior to HCT and extract those that significantly predict the outcomes. A prospective multicenter observational study was performed. (UMIN000013506) Patients undergoing HCT for hematologic diseases were consecutively enrolled. Besides the usual clinical biomarkers, serum samples for extra-clinical biomarkers were collected and cryopreserved before starting the conditioning regimen. A total of 32 candidate biomarkers were selected, 23 from hematology, biochemistry, immunology, nutrition, and iron metabolism, and 9 from composite markers. Based on the area under the curve (AUC) values for survival, promising biomarkers was extracted. Internal validation for these markers was applied based on bootstrap methods. Setting the cut-off values for them, log-rank test was applied and outcomes including overall survival (OS), relapse, and non-relapse mortality (NRM) were evaluated using multivariate analyses. Furthermore, detailed analysis including transplant-related complications and external validation were conducted focusing on C-reactive protein (CRP) to platelet (Plt) ratio. A total of 152 patients with hematologic malignancies were enrolled from April 2014 to March 2017. CRP, soluble interleukin-2 receptor (IL2R), CRP to albumin (Alb) ratio, CRP to Plt ratio, Plt to IL2R ratio, and IL2R to Alb ratio were identified as promising markers. Internal validation successfully confirmed their reliability of AUC and multivariate analysis demonstrated the statistical significance between the higher and the lower markers. Above all, a higher CRP to Plt ratio was significantly associated with a lower OS (hazard ratio [HR] 2.77; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.30−5.91; P = 0.008) and higher non-relapse mortality rates (HR 2.79; 95%CI 1.14−6.80; P = 0.024) at 180 days. Furthermore, univariate analysis showed that a higher CRP to Plt ratio was significantly associated with a higher incidence of sinusoidal obstructive syndrome (P < 0.001) and bloodstream infection (P = 0.027). An external validation test confirmed the significance of the CRP to Plt ratio for these outcomes. The multicenter prospective observational study successfully identified significant biomarkers in patients with hematologic malignancies who received HCT. In particular, CRP to Plt ratio was identified as a novel and useful biomarker for predicting transplant outcomes. Further investigations are needed to validate the novel markers, analysis of the pathophysiology, and application to treatment settings other than HCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores high-energy neutron components of the extracted neutron beam at J-PARC pulsed neutron source using the foil activation method with threshold reactions. Foils of aluminum, gold, bismuth, niobium, and thulium were used to cover the neutron energy range from 0.3 MeV to 79.4 MeV. The experiment was performed using neutron beams of BL10 (NOBORU). The foils were irradiated by a neutron beam at 13.4 m from the moderator. To characterize high-energy neutron fields for irradiation applications, reaction rates in three different configurations with and without B 4 C slit and Pb filter were examined. To compare the experiments with calculations given for the user, reaction rates for corresponding reactions were calculated by the PHITS code with the JENDL-3.2 cross sections and the JENDL dosimetry file. Although there was a systematic tendency in C/E (Calculation/Experiment) ratios for different threshold energies, which C/E ratio decreased as threshold energy increased up to 100 MeV, all C/E ratios were in the range of 1.0 ± 0.2. This indicated that high-energy neutron calculations were adequate for the analysis of experimental data for NOBORU users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have optimized a cold neutron moderator to be operated at the RIKEN accelerator-driven compact neutron source (RANS) to broaden cold neutron applications and provide more choices for RANS users. We selected a safe and easy to manage material, mesitylene, as the RANS cold moderator. An efficient moderator system was designed by studying and optimizing a coupled cold neutron moderator of mesitylene at 20 K with a polyethylene (PE) pre-moderator at room temperature in the slab geometry with Particle and Heavy Ion Transport code System (PHITS) simulations. The parameters of mesitylene and PE thickness, the reflector, and the shielding configuration were studied to increase cold neutron intensities within [0.1 meV, 10 meV] and thermal neutron intensities within [10 meV, 100 meV]. Consequently, an integrated cold neutron intensity of 1.15 × 1 0 3 n/cm 2 ∕ μ A at 2 m from the neutron-producing target was finally achieved, which was 12 times higher than that of the current RANS moderator with 4 cm PE according to simulation results. The cold and thermal neutron intensities of the optimized cold neutron moderator was compared with a cold neutron source based on solid methane, which has a beryllium target and the same proton energy as RANS. The results showed attractive application prospect of mesitylene as cold neutron moderator material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The experimental facilities at J-PARC (Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex) include the Materials and Life science Facility (MLF) with a JSNS (Japan Spallation Neutron Source). The main components of the JSNS need to be exchanged because of material damage due to proton and neutron irradiation. The irradiated components must be remotely maintained. Several kinds of areas, such as a hot-cell, are provided for remote handling operations. Several remote handling devices, such as a power manipulator (PM), master–slave manipulators (MSMs), a target exchange truck, a cutting device, a moderator exchange device, etc. have been installed. The commissioning tests for the remote handling devices are almost complete. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Introduction: Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) has been to be involved in the uptake and regulation of dopamine 2 receptor (D2R), a G protein-coupled receptor expressed in various brain regions. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the relationship between ALK inhibitors and seizures is an important issue. This study investigated the relationship between ALK inhibitors and seizures. Methods: This study investigated the relationship between ALK inhibitors and seizures through a disproportionality analysis using the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). The target drugs were the ALK inhibitors crizotinib, ceritinib, alectinib, brigatinib, and lorlatinib. The seizures covered were defined high-level group term (HLGT): “Seizures (incl. subtype)” including high-level term (HLT): “seizures and seizure disorders NEC.” This study used the information component (IC), a signal score, as a Bayesian statistical method for disproportionality analysis. The signal detection criteria used in this study were the same as those reported previously: a lower limit of 95% credible interval (CrI) for IC >0. Results: The signal scores of '“seizures and seizure disorders not elsewhere classified (NEC)” “for each ALK inhibitor were crizotinib (IC: −0.00052, 95% CrI: −0.38–0.27), ceritinib (IC: 1.18, 95% CrI: 0.68–1.54), alectinib (IC: 0.68, 95% CrI: 0.19–1.02), brigatinib (IC: 1.04, 95% CrI: 0.32–1.54), and lorlatinib (IC: 0.82, 95% CrI: 0.11–1.32). On the other hand, “generalized tonic-clonic seizures,” “partial simple seizures NEC,” “absence seizures,” and “partial complex seizures” had no or few reported cases, and no signal was detected. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first report to evaluate the relationship between ALK inhibitors and seizures using post-marketing surveillance data. These results suggest that ceritinib, alectinib, brigatinib, and lorlatinib, which are highly brain-migrating drugs, are associated with seizures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]