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The moral status of human brain organoids (HBOs) has been debated in view of the future possibility that they may acquire phenomenal consciousness. This study empirically investigates the moral sensitivity in people’s intuitive judgments about actions toward conscious HBOs. The results showed that the presence/absence of pain experience in HBOs affected the judgment about the moral permissibility of actions such as creating and destroying the HBOs; however, the presence/absence of visual experience in HBOs also affected the judgment. These findings suggest that people’s intuitive judgments about the moral status of HBOs are sensitive to the valence-independent value of phenomenal consciousness. We discuss how these observations can have normative implications; particularly, we argue that they put pressure on the theoretical view that the moral status of conscious HBOs is grounded solely in the valence-dependent value of consciousness. We also discuss how our findings can be informative even when such a theoretical view is finally justified or when the future possibility of conscious HBOs is implausible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Host‐guest conjugate is a promising strategy for providing outstanding molecules. Herein, we designed host‐guest conjugate HG1, which comprises a hydrophilic host unit, tetraaza[2.2.1.2.2.1]paracyclophane CPX2 with a microhydrophobic cavity, and a guest unit, 2,3‐naphthalimide fused with two benzothiophenes G1 exhibiting fluorosolvatochromism, linked with an oxyethylene chain. HG1 initially showed a fluorescence band at 585 nm in MeOH/H2O (1/499 v/v); however, this band decreased with time, and instead, a new band at 430 nm appeared. The CIE chromaticity diagram showed that the fluorescent color changed from yellow‐orange to blue via white. NMR analysis of HG1 in methanol‐d4 exhibited different signals of the G1 unit between the blue and yellow fluorescent structures. The blue fluorescent structures showed asymmetrical signals assigned as the G1 unit, affected by the cavity environment of the CPX2 unit. Consequently, HG1 can form two conformations: In‐form and Out‐form. In In‐form, the G1 unit is inside the hydrophobic cavity of the CPX2 unit and shows blue fluorescence. In Out‐form, the G1 unit is outside the CPX2 unit and shows yellow fluorescence in an aqueous solvent. Therefore, HG1 performs as a ratiometric fluorophore depending on the in/out isomerism of the host‐guest conjugate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The red fox (Vulpes vulpes) plays a key role as an apex-generalist predator in terrestrial ecosystems. We estimated the phylogeographic structure, time to most recent common ancestor (tMRCA), and demographic dynamics based on the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome b gene and partial D-loop region sequences of 182 red foxes in the Japanese Archipelago, and discussed the geohistory and biotic interactions that influenced them. The Hondo red fox (Vulpes vulpes japonica), distributed on Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu islands, was supported as a monophyletic group. The tMRCA of the Hondo clade was ~0.148 (95% highest posterior density: 0.236–0.080) Ma. The Hondo clade diverged into two subclades, and each was roughly distributed on the eastern or western area of the Japanese Archipelago. The effective population size of the Hondo red fox remained nearly constant until ~0.03–0.02 Ma; thereafter, it grew ~10-fold. The Kita red fox (Vulpes vulpes schrencki) distributed on Hokkaido Island formed a polyphyletic group, not including the Hondo clade. The completely different phylogenetic structures of the Hondo and Kita red fox indicate that they have independent evolutionary backgrounds. These findings provide crucial insights into the formation mechanisms of diversity and endemism of mammals on continental islands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have previously identified Ertredin (3-(2-amino-5-bromophenyl) quinoxalin-2(1H)-one) as a compound that suppresses 3D spheroid formation and tumorigenesis in NIH3T3 cells induced by Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor variant III (EGFRvIII) transduction. One of its targets has been shown to be NDUFA12 (NADH Dehydrogenase (Ubiquinone) 1 Alpha Subcomplex Subunit 12), a component protein of oxidative phosphorylation complex I. In this report, we compared the growth inhibitory activity of Ertredin with its methylated analogue 7MeERT (3-(2-amino-5-bromophenyl)-7-methylquinoxalin-2(1H)-one) on human cancer cells. 7MeERT induced the inhibition of the proliferation of various cancer cells similarly to Ertredin and showed higher activity in glioblastoma cells, A431 cells overexpressing EGFR (wild type), and multiple myeloma cells. Molecular docking analysis and a Cellular Thermal Shift Assay (CETSA) suggested that 7MeERT binds to NDUFA12 similarly to Ertredin. The binding of 7MeERT and Ertredin to NDUFA12 in glioblastoma was further supported by the inhibition of the oxygen consumption rate. These results suggest that 7MeERT also binds to NDUFA12, inhibits oxidative phosphorylation, and has a higher anti-cancer cell growth inhibitory activity than Ertredin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several power assist robots have been developed to reduce workloads, and address worker shortages and an aging workforce. Previously, the authors developed a power assist device to maintain shoulder posture using a braking mechanism; however, the device presented technical issues regarding the rigidity and weight of the mechanism. To address these issues, in this study, a flexible linear brake (FLB), a brake mechanism driven by negative pressure, was developed for power assist devices. Additionally, a braking force model for the FLB is proposed; the proposed model was verified by comparing the measured and modelled values. Finally, a shoulder assist device that uses the FLB and designed based on the proposed model is discussed in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study adopted an empirical method to investigate lay people’s attitudes toward the bioethical issues of human-animal chimeric brains. The results of online surveys showed that (1) people did not entirely reject chimeric brain research, but showed slightly more negative responses than ordinary animal testing; and that (2) their ethical concerns arose in connection with the perception that chimerism in the brain would humanize the animal. This means that people’s psychology was consistent with the ethical argument that crossing the human-animal boundary would bring moral confusion to our society. Meanwhile, it was not in line with another argument that moral status depended on having high capacities, and that chimerism would cause a problem if it enhanced animals’ capacities. Furthermore, this study analyzed additional psychological factors related to people’s moral judgment and the relationship among those factors. Several psychological factors, such as the perception that chimeric brain research is unnatural, were identified as mediating the relationship between perception of animal humanization and ethical concerns about creating and using chimeric brains. Introducing an empirical approach to the ethics of human-animal chimeric brains brought two findings: (1) this study informed us of socially shared intuition regarding this novel technology; and (2) it unveiled the psychological processes behind people’s ethical concerns in more detail than they spontaneously mentioned. These findings will help to build normative arguments and future policies that are understandable and acceptable to society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene is a fundamental unit of carbon materials and, thus, primary sp2-bonded carbon material. Graphene is, however, easily broken macroscopically despite high mechanical strength, although its natural degradation has rarely been considered. In this work, we evaluate the natural degradation of two-layer graphene in vacuo, in low-humidity air, and in high-humidity air at 300, 400, 450, and 500 K. Over 1000 days of degradation at 300 K, the graphene structure was highly maintained in vacuo, whereas the layer number of graphene tended to decrease in high- and low-humidity air. Water was slightly reacted/chemisorbed on graphene to form surface oxygen groups at 300 K. At 450 and 500 K, graphene was moderately volatilized in vacuo and was obviously oxidized in high- and low-humidity air. Surprisingly, the oxidation of graphene was more suppressed in the high-humidity air than in the low-humidity air, indicating that water worked as an anti-oxidizer of graphene by preventing the chemisorption of oxygen on the graphene surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the use of hydrogels, specifically interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) hydrogels, in various applications such as catalyst support, reactors, and drug release systems. The authors focus on a specific IPN hydrogel called IPN PEG, which has temperature-responsive and chemical-responsive properties. They discuss its synthesis and characterization, as well as its potential use as a reactor vessel for organic reactions, specifically the oxidative coupling of 2-naphthol. The authors provide details on the synthesis and characterization of IPN PEG gels with different compositions. While the IPN hydrogel showed promise as a reactor, it had limitations in its recyclability in basic media. Further research is being conducted on the IPN hydrogel reactor and its capabilities. [Extracted from the article]

Optimal conditions for wound healing require a smooth transition from the early stage of inflammation to proliferation, and during this time alternatively activated (M2) macrophages play a central role. Recently, heat-killed lactic acid bacteria (LAB), such as Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) have been reported as possible modulators affecting the immune responses in wound healing. However, how signaling molecules regulate this process after the administration of heat-killed LAB remains unclear. In this study, we examined the effect of heat-killed L. plantarum KB131 (KB131) administration on wound healing and the contribution of CARD9, which is an essential signaling adaptor molecule for NF-kB activation upon triggering through C-type lectin receptors, in the effects of this bacterium. We analyzed wound closure, histological findings, and inflammatory responses. We found that administration of KB131 accelerated wound closure, re-epithelialization, granulation area, CD31-positive vessels, and α-SMA-positive myofibroblast accumulated area, as well as the local infiltration of leukocytes. In particular, M2 macrophages were increased, in parallel with CCL5 synthesis. The acceleration of wound healing responses by KB131 was canceled in CARD9-knockout mice. These results indicate that the topical administration of KB131 accelerates wound healing, accompanying increased M2 macrophages, which suggests that CARD9 may be involved in these responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimal conditions for wound healing require a smooth transition from the early stage of inflammation to proliferation, and during this time alternatively activated (M2) macrophages play a central role. Recently, heat-killed lactic acid bacteria (LAB), such as Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) have been reported as possible modulators affecting the immune responses in wound healing. However, how signaling molecules regulate this process after the administration of heat-killed LAB remains unclear. In this study, we examined the effect of heat-killed L. plantarum KB131 (KB131) administration on wound healing and the contribution of CARD9, which is an essential signaling adaptor molecule for NF-kB activation upon triggering through C-type lectin receptors, in the effects of this bacterium. We analyzed wound closure, histological findings, and inflammatory responses. We found that administration of KB131 accelerated wound closure, re-epithelialization, granulation area, CD31-positive vessels, and α-SMA-positive myofibroblast accumulated area, as well as the local infiltration of leukocytes. In particular, M2 macrophages were increased, in parallel with CCL5 synthesis. The acceleration of wound healing responses by KB131 was canceled in CARD9-knockout mice. These results indicate that the topical administration of KB131 accelerates wound healing, accompanying increased M2 macrophages, which suggests that CARD9 may be involved in these responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cultivating preservice teachers' shutaisei has been the focus of Japanese university-based teacher education since the late 1990s. This article contains the self-study of three teacher educators at different Japanese universities. All three of us believe that helping students cultivate their shutaisei should be an important part of our teaching practices; however, framing shutaisei and pursuing it in practice poses complex dilemmas. In this article, we explore our individual understandings of shutaisei's meaning in theory and practice, and reflect on how and why we considered it in these ways. We discussed our practices every two weeks online; all the conversations were videotaped and analyzed. Ultimately, through this self-study, we (teacher educators) found: (1) We had defined what shutaisei means based on our own educational experiences; and (2) We had suggested our own shutaisei to the students without being aware that it is based on our own educational experience. Teacher education institutions, we recommend, should provide opportunities for faculty members to explore themselves and their practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contemporary polymer science is shifting toward the development of recycling systems to curb global resource depletion and environmental contamination. However, most methods of polymer recycling require cleavage of chemical bonds, which diminishes the quality of the polymers during recycling. Here, we propose a recycling strategy for tough polymers based on microparticles, which allows materials recycling without loss of their properties ('closed-loop' recycling). The polymer microparticles can be used to generate tough polymer films by controlling the interparticle physical cross-linking, and subsequently recycled on demand by disassembling into individual microparticles without chemical reactions. Our "microparticle-based concept" for polymer recycling circumvents the infamous trade-off between mechanical stability and degradability of polymers and be expected to open new avenues for closed-loop recycling of polymer materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a self-induced spatially-coherent dot array consisting of fourteen units of vertical-cavity surface-emitting modes that exhibit spatially uniform spectra. A 47.5 µm total beam width and 0.5° narrow emission are achieved using an oblong cavity enclosed with a flat top mirror, cylindrically curved bottom mirror, and side facet. Notably, terminating the side of the cavity with a perpendicular facet enhances the horizontal propagation, which couples with the vertical resonance in each dot, similar to the case of master lasers in injection-locked lasers that delocalize the modes. Conventional semiconductor lasers, edge-emitting lasers, and vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers have a Fabry–Pérot cavity; furthermore, emission and resonance are in identical directions, limiting the beam width to micrometers. Though the present structure has the same scheme of propagation, the right-angled facet synchronizes the modes and drastically expands the beam width. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although hydrogel microspheres (microgels) are useful as emulsion stabilizers, typical microgels cannot stabilize foams over a prolonged period of time. Here, we found that compressible nanocomposite microgels with solid nanoparticles can overcome undesired desorption of microgels from the air/water interface of bubbles, and form highly durable, microgel-surrounded foams (gelfoams). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although methods to suppress macroscopic nonuniform structures, e.g., due to the coffee‐ring effect, have been established, the formation of specific patterns during the evaporation of water from sessile droplets that contain colloidal particles remains challenging. In this study, it is discovered that the surface modification of colloidal particles by soft hydrogels provides a means to control the adsorption kinetics on the air/water interface. Especially binary mixtures of such core/shell colloids exhibit unique adsorption behavior that manifests in adsorption races to the interface, resulting in the formation of patterns of binary colloidal particles as well as in a suppression of the coffee‐ring effect. These results can be expected to be beneficial for applications such as inkjet coating, where the required micro‐patterns are controlled via the evaporation of solvents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Butyrolactones are prevalent structural elements in many natural products. Vinylogous conjugate additions of butenolides are among the most promising synthetic methods for generating natural products and/or natural product‐like compounds with potential biological activities. In this report, direct 1,6‐conjugate addition of butenolide to p‐quinone methides via Brønsted base catalysis was performed, which provides an efficient route to interesting molecules. The reaction proceeds with a regioselective γ‐attack of butenolide and shows good functional group tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vicinal oxygen‐containing tetra‐ and tri‐substituted stereocenters exist widely in chromanone lactone and tetrahydroxanthone natural products. Their enantioselective construction in a single step remains elusive and poses a formidable challenge for chemical synthesis. Here, we report the first copper(I)‐catalyzed asymmetric vinylogous additions of siloxyfurans to 2‐ester‐substituted chromones, which enable concise and enantioselective assembly of chromanone lactones. Both syn and anti adducts can be accessed with excellent diastereo‐ and enantioselectivity by judicious choice of the chiral ligands. Our approach allowed for the efficient synthesis of (−)‐blennolide B with precise stereochemical control, which provides a formal synthesis of secalonic acid A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vicinal oxygen‐containing tetra‐ and tri‐substituted stereocenters exist widely in chromanone lactone and tetrahydroxanthone natural products. Their enantioselective construction in a single step remains elusive and poses a formidable challenge for chemical synthesis. Here, we report the first copper(I)‐catalyzed asymmetric vinylogous additions of siloxyfurans to 2‐ester‐substituted chromones, which enable concise and enantioselective assembly of chromanone lactones. Both syn and anti adducts can be accessed with excellent diastereo‐ and enantioselectivity by judicious choice of the chiral ligands. Our approach allowed for the efficient synthesis of (−)‐blennolide B with precise stereochemical control, which provides a formal synthesis of secalonic acid A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonreducing disaccharide trehalose is used as a stabilizer and humectant in various products and is a potential medicinal drug, showing curative effects on the animal models of various diseases. However, its use is limited as it is hydrolyzed by trehalase, a widely expressed enzyme in multiple organisms. Several trehalose analogs are prepared, including a microbial metabolite 4‐trehalosamine, and their high biological stability is confirmed. For further analysis, 4‐trehalosamine is selected as it shows high producibility. Compared with trehalose, 4‐trehalosamine exhibits better or comparable protective activities and a high buffer capacity around the neutral pH. Another advantage of 4‐trehalosamine is its chemical modifiability: simple reactions produce its various derivatives. Labeled probes and detergents are synthesized in one‐pot reactions to exemplify the feasibility of their production, and their utility is confirmed for their respective applications. The labeled probes are used for mycobacterial staining. Although the derivative detergents can be effectively used in membrane protein research, long‐chain detergents show 1000–3000‐fold stronger autophagy‐inducing activity in cultured cells than trehalose and are expected to become a drug lead and research reagent. These results indicate that 4‐trehalosamine is a useful trehalose substitute for various purposes and a material to produce new useful derivative substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reptilian skull morphology is highly diverse and broadly categorized into three architectural patterns: anapsid, synapsid, and diapsid. The anapsid condition where the temporal region is completely roofed by bones is observed in both basal reptiles and turtles. According to recent phylogenetic studies, turtles are derived from diapsid reptiles, implying that the temporal fenestrae were secondarily closed in turtles. Although the repeated evolution of dermatocranial bone reductions in the skull's temporal region of the anapsid skull and the biomechanical factors driving the evolution of the anapsid skull in turtles have been actively discussed, its developmental basis for the anapsid skull remains poorly understood. To investigate the developmental mechanisms underlying the morphological evolution of turtle skulls, here we describe the cranial osteogenesis of three cryptodiran turtle species with distinct skull morphologies: Chelonia mydas (Cheloniidae), Mauremys reevesii (Geoemydidae), and Pelodiscus sinensis (Trionychidae). Our interspecific comparison of embryonic cranial osteogenesis suggests that the growth pattern of skull bone elements is presumed to be highly conserved during embryogenesis across cryptodiran turtles. We found that the growth pattern of the five dermatocranial elements that construct the temporal region of the skull (the parietal, postorbital, jugal, quadratojugal, and squamosal) is highly conserved among turtle species, and that the morphological diversity of turtle skulls arises from slight differences in growth patterns. Our study also suggests that interspecific morphological differences in the cheloniid adult skulls may become apparent in the post-hatching growth period rather than during embryogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated whether the water dispersibility of lactic acid bacteria (Enterococcus faecalis KH2) affects their efficacy. When cultured lactic acid bacteria are washed, heat-killed, and powdered, adhesion occurs between results in aggregation (non-treated lactic acid bacteria, n-LAB). However, dispersed lactic acid bacteria (d-LAB) with a lower number of aggregates can be prepared by treating them with a high-pressure homogenizer and adding an excipient during powdering. Mice were administered n-LAB or d-LAB Peyer's patches in the small intestine were observed. Following n-LAB administration, a high amount of aggregated bacteria drifting in the intestinal mucosa was observed; meanwhile, d-LAB reached the Peyer's patches and was absorbed into them. Evaluation in a mouse influenza virus infection model showed that d-LAB was more effective than n-LAB in the influenza yield of bronchoalveolar lavage fluids on day 3 post-infection and neutralizing antibody titers of sera and influenza virus-specific immunoglobulin A in the feces on day 14 post-infection. Therefore, the physical properties of lactic acid bacteria affect their efficacy; controlling their water dispersibility can improve their effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review describes our efforts toward achieving catalytic asymmetric total synthesis of leucinostatin A, a compound that interferes with the tumor‐stroma interaction. The synthesis utilizes four catalytic asymmetric reactions, including direct‐type reactions exemplified by high atom‐economy, and three C−C bond forming reactions. Thorough analysis of the NMR data, HPLC profiles, and biologic activity led us to unambiguously revise the absolute configuration regarding the 6‐position of the AHMOD residue side chain from S (reported) to R. Other examples of previously reported important studies on the stereoselective synthesis of HyLeu and AHMOD are also described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modulation of prostate stromal cells (PrSCs) within tumor tissues is gaining attention for the treatment of solid tumors. Using our original in vitro coculture system, we previously reported that leucinostatin (LCS)‐A, a peptide mycotoxin, inhibited prostate cancer DU‐145 cell growth through reduction of insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐I) expression in PrSCs. To further obtain additional bioactive compounds from LCS‐A, we designed and synthesized a series of LCS‐A derivatives as compounds that target PrSCs. Among the synthesized LCS‐A derivatives, LCS‐7 reduced IGF‐I expression in PrSCs with lower toxicity to PrSCs and mice than LCS‐A. As LCS‐A has been suggested to interact with mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthase, a docking study was performed to elucidate the mechanism of reduced IGF‐I expression in the PrSCs. As expected, LCS‐A and LCS‐7 directly interacted with mitochondrial ATP synthase, and like LCS‐A and LCS‐7, other mitochondrial ATP synthase inhibitors also reduced the expression of IGF‐I by PrSCs. Furthermore, LCS‐A and LCS‐7 significantly decreased the growth of mouse xenograft tumors. Based on these data, we propose that the mitochondrial ATP synthases–IGF‐I axis of PrSCs plays a critical role on cancer cell growth and inhibition could be a potential anticancer target for prostate cancer. What's new? The secretion by prostate stromal cells (PrSCs) of insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐I) fuels prostate cancer (PC) cell proliferation. IGF‐I expression by PC cells can be reduced by leucinostatin‐A (LCS‐A), a fungal nanopeptide. Here, the authors investigated a panel of synthetic LCS‐A compounds and identified a derivative, LCS‐7, that specifically reduces IGF‐I expression in PrSCs. Docking analyses show that LCS‐7 interacts directly with mitochondrial ATP synthase to reduce IGF‐I expression. In a mouse xenograft model, LCS‐7 significantly inhibited prostate tumor growth. The findings open the path to mitochondrial ATP synthase–IGF‐I axis targeting as a novel therapeutic strategy against prostate cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The three‐dimensional structure of nanocomposite microgels was precisely determined by cryo‐electron micrography. Several nanocomposite microgels that differ with respect to their nanocomposite structure, which were obtained from seeded emulsion polymerization in the presence of microgels, were used as model nanocomposite materials for cryo‐electron micrography. The obtained three‐dimensional segmentation images of these nanocomposite microgels provide important insights into the interactions between the hydrophobic monomers and the microgels, that is, hydrophobic styrene monomers recognize molecular‐scale differences in polarity within the microgels during the emulsion polymerization. This result led to the formation of unprecedented multi‐layered nanocomposite microgels, which promise substantial potential in colloidal applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The three‐dimensional structure of nanocomposite microgels was precisely determined by cryo‐electron micrography. Several nanocomposite microgels that differ with respect to their nanocomposite structure, which were obtained from seeded emulsion polymerization in the presence of microgels, were used as model nanocomposite materials for cryo‐electron micrography. The obtained three‐dimensional segmentation images of these nanocomposite microgels provide important insights into the interactions between the hydrophobic monomers and the microgels, that is, hydrophobic styrene monomers recognize molecular‐scale differences in polarity within the microgels during the emulsion polymerization. This result led to the formation of unprecedented multi‐layered nanocomposite microgels, which promise substantial potential in colloidal applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electronic and magnetic properties of a layered compound LaMnPO are examined in relation to a newly discovered iso-structural superconductor LaFeAs(P)O. Neutron diffraction measurements, together with temperature dependent magnetic susceptibility, clarify that LaMnPO is an antiferromagnet at least up to 375 K. The spin moment of a Mn ion is determined to be 2.26 μB at room temperature, and the spin configuration is antiparallel in the Mn–P plane and parallel between the Mn–P planes, which is rather different from that of LaFeAsO. Optical absorption spectra, photoemission spectra, and temperature dependent electrical conductivity indicate that LaMnPO is a semiconductor. Furthermore, nominally undoped LaMnPO exhibits n-type conduction while the conduction type is changed by doping of Cu or Ca to the La sites, indicating that LaMnPO is a bipolar conductor. Density functional calculation using the GGA+U approximation supports the above conclusions; the electronic band structure has an open band gap and the antiferromagnetic spin configuration is more stable than the ferromagnetic one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroxyapatite [Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2, HAP] has P–OH Brønsted acidic sites, Ca2+ Lewis acidic sites, and OH− and O2− basic sites on which acidic and basic gas molecules can be selectively adsorbed, and has no micropore onto which various molecules adsorb regardless of the chemical properties of gas molecules. The interaction between the surface sites and acidic and basic gas and water molecules has been investigated by evaluating the adsorption properties of various molecules on the surfaces of calcium-deficient HAP. The specific adsorption sites were assessed by examining the reversible and irreversible adsorption of NH3, CO2, aldehydes, and water vapor on HAP at the temperature of 298 K, using two HAP samples with different Ca/P ratios, but similar structures and surface areas: Ca-deficient HAP with an extreme lower Ca/P ratio (named P-HAP) and one with a higher Ca/P ratio (named C-HAP). Irreversible adsorption of NH3 on C-HAP is attributed to the adsorption on both Ca2+ Lewis acidic and P–OH Brønsted acidic sites. Irreversible adsorption on P-HAP is attributed to the adsorption on P–OH Brønsted acidic sites only. Irreversible adsorption of CO2 occurred on C-HAP only, and preferentially on OH− basic sites. Acetaldehyde undergoes a catalytic reaction over both OH− basic sites and surface P–OH Brønsted acidic sites at 298 K. Water irreversible adsorption was extensively observed for P-HAP, and water was barely desorbed at low pressures. In situ powder X-ray diffraction showed an asymmetric expansion of the lattice in the [100] direction, indicating that water was incorporated into P-HAP crystals, especially on structural OH− sites. Irreversible adsorption of acidic and basic molecules was therefore less observed on P-HAP than on C-HAP, but P-HAP had considerable irreversible adsorption of water vapor with associated asymmetric lattice expansion. The incorporation of water vapor was first observed and could be useful to improve adsorption or catalytic performance with the mediation of water vapor and/or hydration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we fabricated a photoelectrochemical circuit using GaInAsP photonic crystal nanolasers as a working electrode. Then, we controlled the emission intensity and lasing wavelength of these nanolasers by applying a bias voltage in an ionic solution. The electrochemical working points for the emission intensity and wavelength were observed for the backward and forward biases, respectively. We confirmed that the emission intensity is primarily changed by the surface recombination, which is enhanced by the Schottky barrier near the solid–liquid interface. The wavelength shift is also assumed to be caused by the Pockels effect in the electric double layer of the solution. This control method can maximize and stabilize the performance of photonic biochemical sensors and also become an option in controlling the laser diode characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soft colloidal particles such as hydrogel microspheres assemble at air/water or oil/water interfaces, where the soft colloids are highly deformed and their surface polymer chains are highly entangled with each other. Herein, we report the formation of robust one‐dimensional, string‐like colloidal assemblies through self‐organization of hydrogel microspheres with shape anisotropy at the air/water interface of sessile droplets. Shape‐anisotropic hydrogel microspheres were synthesized via two‐step polymerization, whereby a hydrogel shell was formed onto preformed rigid microellipsoids. The shape anisotropy of the hydrogel microspheres was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy and high‐speed atomic force microscopy as well as by light‐scattering measurements. The present findings are crucial for the understanding of natural self‐organization phenomena, where "softness" influences microscopic assembled structures such as those of Nostoc bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soft colloidal particles such as hydrogel microspheres assemble at air/water or oil/water interfaces, where the soft colloids are highly deformed and their surface polymer chains are highly entangled with each other. Herein, we report the formation of robust one‐dimensional, string‐like colloidal assemblies through self‐organization of hydrogel microspheres with shape anisotropy at the air/water interface of sessile droplets. Shape‐anisotropic hydrogel microspheres were synthesized via two‐step polymerization, whereby a hydrogel shell was formed onto preformed rigid microellipsoids. The shape anisotropy of the hydrogel microspheres was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy and high‐speed atomic force microscopy as well as by light‐scattering measurements. The present findings are crucial for the understanding of natural self‐organization phenomena, where "softness" influences microscopic assembled structures such as those of Nostoc bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrophobized nanocomposite microgels can serve as particulate emulsifiers for water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions with different types of oils, including non-polar oils, which usually do not form W/O emulsions with conventional microgels. The emulsion type can be controlled via the amount or type of hydrophobic polymer formed within the microgels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon‐and‐oxygen‐doped AlN specimens were prepared by combustion synthesis using Al, graphite, and AlN. Graphite addition changed the product color from white to blue. By XRD, the lattice constant increased slightly with increasing carbon content. Blue AlN powder was synthesized with a molar ratio of the diluent AlN of 0.2‐0.5 with a fixed graphite content of 0.05. At an AlN molar ratio exceeding 0.6, carbon was not successfully incorporated due to the lower reaction temperature. Calcination at 800°C in air removed residual graphite without changing the crystal structure or product color. Oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon analyses revealed that blue AlN powders contained 0.45‐0.54 mass% carbon and 1.4‐1.6 mass% oxygen, while the undoped AlN contained 0.021 mass% carbon and 0.94 mass% oxygen. The origin of the white‐to‐blue color change was investigated via reflection measurements. Blue AlN exhibits an absorption peak at 634 nm (1.96 eV). From first‐principles electronic structure calculations, the C‐doped AlN and carbon‐and‐oxygen‐doped AlN with a 1:1 ratio could be classified as p‐type, whereas the O‐doped AlN and 1:3 carbon‐and‐oxygen‐doped AlN were n‐type. One reason for the absorption peak at 634 nm may be a transition from the conduction band to an upper unoccupied state. These results suggest the possible control of optical and electronic properties of AlN via carbon‐and‐oxygen doping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fibroblast-like stromal cells modulate the growth of cancer cells, both positively and negatively. Growth modulation is achieved through the secretion of regulatory factors as well as by proteins within the extracellular matrix. Those cellular interactions present attractive targets for cancer chemotherapy. It was demonsrated a novel natural compound, intervenolin (ITV), inhibited the in vitro growth of human gastric cancer cells when co-cultured with stromal cells. Importantly, the inhibition was enhanced by the presence of stromal cells. The present study reported a mechanism of ITV action. Human gastric fibroblast-like stromal cells (Hs738) were treated with ITV. The resultant conditioned medium (ITV CM) inhibited the growth of human gastric cancer cells and suppressed the level of c-Myc protein. This result suggested that ITV negatively modulated cancer cell growth by upregulating the secretion of factors originating from stromal cells in the co-culture system. To better understand the mechanism, ITV CM was subjected to proteomic analysis. The data revealed that one of the candidate regulators was thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1). Recombinant human TSP-1 protein inhibited the growth of gastric cancer cells. Moreover, the growth-inhibitory activities of ITV CM as well as that of recombinant TSP-1 were blocked by neutralizing antibody targeting TSP-1. These results suggested that ITV inhibited the growth of gastric cancer cells through its modulation of stromal cell function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Influenza virus infection is a major threat to global health. Although vaccines and anti-influenza virus drugs are available, annual influenza virus epidemics result in severe illness, and an influenza pandemic occurs every 20-30 years. To identify candidate anti-influenza virus compounds, we screened approximately 5,000 compounds in an in-house library. We identified MZ7465, a salcomine derivative, as a potent inhibitor of influenza virus propagation. We analyzed the antiviral propagation mechanism of the hit compound by determining the amounts of viral proteins and RNA in infected cells treated with or without the hit compound. Treatment of infected cells with MZ7465 decreased both viral protein and RNA synthesis. In addition, an in vitro assay showed that viral RNA synthesis was directly inhibited by MZ7465. These results suggest that salcomine and its derivatives are potential candidates for the treatment of influenza virus infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection causes various gastrointestinal diseases including gastric cancer. Hence, eradication of this infection could prevent these diseases. The most popular first‐line treatment protocol to eradicate H. pylori is termed “triple therapy” and consists of a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), clarithromycin, and amoxicillin or metronidazole. However, the antibiotics used to treat H. pylori infection are hindered by the antibiotics‐resistant bacteria and by their antimicrobial activity against intestinal bacteria, leading to side effects. Therefore, an alternative treatment with fewer adverse side effects is urgently required to improve the overall eradication rate of H. pylori. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness and mechanism of action of an antitumor agent, intervenolin, and its derivatives as an agent for the treatment of H. pylori infection. Results: We demonstrate that intervenolin, and its derivatives showed selective anti‐H. pylori activity, including antibiotic‐resistant strains, without any effect on intestinal bacteria. We showed that dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, a key enzyme for de novo pyrimidine biosynthesis, is a target and treatment with intervenolin or its derivatives decreased the protein and mRNA levels of H. pylori urease, which protects H. pylori against acidic conditions in the stomach. Using a mouse model of H. pylori infection, oral monotherapy with the intervenolin derivative AS‐1934 had a stronger anti‐H. pylori effect than the triple therapy commonly used worldwide to eradicate H. pylori. Conclusion: AS‐1934 has potential advantages over current treatment options for H. pylori infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The direct catalytic asymmetric aldol reaction is an emerging catalytic methodology that provides atom‐economical access to functionalized chiral building blocks. Thioamides are useful aldol donors due to their high‐fidelity chemoselective enolization and divergent post‐aldol transformations. Herein we describe the incorporation of an α‐vinyl appendage on a thioamide, which expands the utility of aldol adducts for natural product synthesis. This vinylated thioamide was not accommodated under the previously identified catalyst settings, but the newly developed catalytic conditions furnished aldol products containing the pendant vinyl group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Separation of CO2 based on adsorption, absorption, and membrane techniques is a crucial technology necessary to address current global warming issues. Porous media are essential for all these approaches and understanding the nature of the porous structure is important for achieving highly efficient CO2 adsorption. Porous carbon is considered to be a suitable porous media for investigating the fundamental mechanisms of CO2 adsorption, because of its simple morphology and its availability in a wide range of well-defined pore sizes. In this study, we investigated the dependence of CO2 adsorption on pore structures such as pore size, volume, and specific surface area. We also studied slit-shaped and cylindrical pore morphologies based on activated carbon fibers of 0.6–1.7 nm and carbon nanotubes of 1–5 nm, respectively, with relatively uniform structures. Porous media with larger specific surface areas gave higher CO2 adsorption densities than those of media having larger pore volumes. Narrower pores gave higher adsorption densities because of deep adsorption potential wells. However, at a higher pressure CO2 adsorption densities increased again in nanopores including micropores and small mesopores. The optimal pore size ranges of CO2 adsorption in the slit-shaped and cylindrical carbon pores were 0.4–1.2 and 1.0–2.0 nm, respectively, although a high adsorption density was only expected for the narrow carbon nanopores from adsorption potentials. The wider nanopore ranges than expected nanopore ranges are reasonable when considering intermolecular interactions in addition to CO2–carbon pore interactions. Therefore, cooperative adsorption among CO2 in relatively narrow nanopores can allow for high density and high capacity adsorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deformation of soft hydrogel microspheres (microgels) adsorbed at the air/water interface was investigated for the first time using large poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide)-based microgels synthesized by a modified aqueous precipitation polymerization method. The deformation of the micron-sized soft microspheres could be visualized clearly and analyzed quantitatively at the air/water interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]