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Introduction: The gradual process of atherosclerosis involves both structural and functional changes that can accumulate over years and contribute to cardiovascular risk. We propose the use of color M-mode ultrasound to evaluate the distensibility of the carotid artery as a quantitative measurement of dynamic function that could evaluate age-related vascular change when considering atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease evaluation and risk. The aim of the study was to assess the feasibility of color M-mode ultrasound to evaluate age-related changes in the carotid arteries.Methods: Color M-mode ultrasound of the distal common carotid artery (CCA) with concurrent electrocardiogram tracing was performed on 62 adults (19 men and 43 women) in 3 age groups: young adult (20-44 years; n = 22), middle age (45-64 years; n = 20), and senior (≥65 years; n = 20). Color M-mode ultrasound images of the CCA were processed offline using ImageJ to quantify total, red, green, and blue (RGB) pixels in systole and diastole. The CCA distensibility was calculated by using the following equation: distensibility coefficient (DC) = (systolic − diastolic diameter)/(diastolic diameter × pulse pressure). The difference in ultrasound parameters among the 3 age groups was analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Intraobserver and interobserver reliability of offline imaging processing was tested using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).Results: We observed a significant difference in CCA distensibility among the 3 age groups (P< .05). The interobserver reproducibility and intraobserver repeatability in performing offline image processing were excellent (ICC >0.85).Conclusion: These findings suggest that color M-mode ultrasound is feasible in evaluating changes in CCA distensibility and systolic pixel values representing CCA blood flow significantly decreased in seniors.

We propose a novel method for improving brightness and efficiency of BEF‐less mini‐LED displays in a thinner form factor. In place of BEFs an array of Fresnel lenses positioned over each LED followed by micro lens array diffusion films create a uniform light output. Best practices and backlight design recommendations will be discussed.

This study investigated the effect of extracts from unfertilized eggs and fertilized eggs with different culture periods as FBS substitutes for cell culture. A mixture of 5 % FBS and 20 % egg white extract or 10 % FBS and 10 % egg white extract was found to be the optimal condition for increasing cell proliferation. In particular, egg white extract obtained from unfertilized eggs was more effective in terms of increased cell viability and price competitiveness and showed similar effects to commercial FBS. In addition, when using this extract, successful proliferation of satellite cells was confirmed, as well as expression of Pax7, a protein present in muscle satellite cells. Additionally, OVF and OVA in the extract are believed to have an indirect effect on FBS replacements for chick muscle satellite cells towards cultured meat development. Egg white extract can replace up to 50–75 % of FBS. Further developments of the extracts could result in complete FBS substitution.

This review was conducted to provide basic knowledge in developing new culture media for cultured meat production by compiling research on how the main media components affect cell proliferation and muscle differentiation. The culturing process can be divided into five processes: cell acquisition, cell proliferation, cell differentiation, myotube formation, and muscle maturation. To date, cultural media research has shown that amino acids, fatty acids, and carbohydrates mainly act as energy and nutrient sources for cell proliferation and muscle production, and minerals mainly play roles as regulators of cell proliferation and muscle production. Vitamins not only protect cells from oxidative stress but also promote cell growth and regulate cell growth-related genes. Additionally, cytokines play a role in regulating genes related to muscle proliferation and regeneration, and hormones, such as growth factors, insulin, and thyroid hormones, benefit muscle growth and regulation.

This Protocol Extension describes the low-cost production of rapidly customizable optical neural probes for in vivo optogenetics. We detail the use of a 3D printer to fabricate minimally invasive microscale inorganic light-emitting-diode-based neural probes that can control neural circuit activity in freely behaving animals, thus extending the scope of two previously published protocols describing the fabrication and implementation of optoelectronic devices for studying intact neural systems. The 3D-printing fabrication process does not require extensive training and eliminates the need for expensive materials, specialized cleanroom facilities and time-consuming microfabrication techniques typical of conventional manufacturing processes. As a result, the design of the probes can be quickly optimized, on the basis of experimental need, reducing the cost and turnaround for customization. For example, 3D-printed probes can be customized to target multiple brain regions or scaled up for use in large animal models. This protocol comprises three procedures: (1) probe fabrication, (2) wireless module preparation and (3) implantation for in vivo assays. For experienced researchers, neural probe and wireless module fabrication requires ~2 d, while implantation should take 30–60 min per animal. Time required for behavioral assays will vary depending on the experimental design and should include at least 5 d of animal handling before implantation of the probe, to familiarize each animal to their handler, thus reducing handling stress that may influence the result of the behavioral assays. The implementation of customized probes improves the flexibility in optogenetic experimental design and increases access to wireless probes for in vivo optogenetic research.

ABSTRACTSmart city initiatives have the potential to address many contemporary urban challenges, utilizing information and technology. Increasingly, smart cities are considered as social innovation processes to achieve sustainable and inclusive urban development, being influenced by broader socio-economic and institutional contexts of cities. This paper explores ‘smart city transitions’ across varied urban contexts, in particular, how smart city transitions are enacted and how they contribute to inclusive urban transformation and public value. Using a multiple case studies approach, the research investigated infrastructure planning practices in Amsterdam in the Netherlands, Seoul in Korea, Portland in the U.S. and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) in Vietnam, cities that were known for strong efforts to establish integrated platforms to enhance societal benefits. Our analysis showed that each city has addressed its goals around sustainability, equity and affordability by reinforcing the engagement of multiple actors with the support of integrated platforms that facilitate open and multi-directional information flow in a transparent manner. In Amsterdam, innovative solutions for sustainable use of resources have been invented and distributed through multi-level social networks, contributing to the transformation into a circular economy.In Seoul and HCMC, the city's persistent efforts to utilize an open and integrated platform resulted in proactive engagement and collaboration of public and private actors in improving quality, equity and efficiency of transit services. Portland has tackled inequitable access and mistrust issues by setting principles for data governance and facilitating equity in the adoption of innovative technologies. Our research revealed that four cities established different forms of integrated platforms such as a centrally-controlled platform and a community-centred platform in order to address specific socio-economic issues within an institutional setting of each city. We concluded that building an integrated platform is not easy, but it is a critical prerequisite for the process of sustainable transformation to truly achieve smart cities across the globe.

Dry electrode technology is a next-generation method for manufacturing lithium-ion batteries because it is useful for fabricating thick electrodes without solvents, facilitating high energy densities and cutting down on the battery manufacturing costs. However, the commonly used polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) binder in dry electrode technology undergoes severe decomposition in dry-processed anodes during the first lithiation process due to its low lowest unoccupied molecular orbital level. This phenomenon seriously aggravates battery performance, such as in terms of the initial coulombic efficiency and cycle life. Thus, a strategy to suppress this irreversible reaction of PTFE should be established for dry-processed anodes to increase the energy density of LIBs without adverse effects on battery performance. To address this challenge, in this work, fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) as an electrolyte additive has been introduced to form a preemptive and stable FEC-derived solid electrolyte interface (SEI) to protect a graphite and the PTFE binder. This SEI considerably alleviates the irreversible reaction of PTFE, thereby securing the reversible capacity and maintaining the structure of the electrode through the great binding properties. These results provide guidance for increasing the electrochemical stability in dry-processed anode systems, which gets closer the innovative dry anode technology for cost-effectiveness and high energy density.

ABSTRACTOvershooting tops (OTs) play a crucial role in carrying tropospheric water vapor to the lower stratosphere. They are closely related to climate change as well as local severe weather conditions, such as lightning, hail, and air turbulence, which implies the importance of their detection and monitoring. While many studies have proposed threshold-based detection models using the spatial characteristics of OTs, they have shown varied performance depending on the seasonality and study areas. In this study, we propose a pre-trained feature-aggregated convolutional neural network approach for OT detection and monitoring. The proposed approach was evaluated using multi-channel data from Geo-Kompsat-2A Advanced Meteorological Imager (GK2A AMI) over East Asia. The fusion of a visible channel and multi-infrared channels enabled the proposed model to consider both physical and spatial characteristics of OTs. Six schemes were evaluated according to two types of data pre-processing methods and three types of deep learning model architectures. The best-performed scheme yielded a probability of detection (POD) of 92.1%, a false alarm ratio (FAR) of 21.5%, and a critical success index (CSI) of 0.7. The results were significantly improved when compared to those of the existing CNN-based OT detection model (POD increase by 4.8% and FAR decrease by 29.4%).

We aimed to assess longitudinal wall motion of the common carotid artery (CCA) using velocity vector imaging (VVI). From October 2018 to July 2019, we prospectively performed VVI of 204 CCAs (102 adult volunteers, 57 men, 45 women) in young (n = 40, 20–44 y), mid‐age (n = 30, 45–64 y), and senior (n = 32, ≥65 y) groups. VVI parameters of CCA included longitudinal motion pattern, motion parameters (strain, strain rate, displacement), and time‐to‐peak motion parameters (time‐to‐peak strain, time‐to‐peak strain rate, time‐to‐peak displacement). Statistical analyses included one‐way ANOVA post‐hoc testing to examine the difference in VVI parameters among the 3 age groups and in paired groups; unpaired ttests to examine the difference in VVI parameters between CCAs with and without atherosclerotic plaque, between hypertensive and normotensive subjects without atherosclerotic plaque; linear regression to analyze correlations of VVI parameters to age, carotid intima‐media thickness; and intraclass correlation coefficient to test inter‐ and intra‐observer reliability in performing VVI of the CCA. Differences in VVI parameters and patterns among the 3 age groups, between hypertensive and normotensive, and CCAs with and without plaque were significant (p < .01). CCA motion‐ and time‐to‐peak motion parameters were correlated to age (R2= 0.63–0.56) and carotid intima‐media thickness (R2= 0.29–0.22). CCA wall motion dyssynchrony was remarkable in seniors. The repeatability and reproducibility for performing carotid artery VVI were good (intraclass correlation coefficient > 0.85). VVI is feasible to assess changes in longitudinal CCA wall mechanical properties and synchrony with aging, atherosclerosis, and hypertension.

The aim of the study was to assess the value of multiparametric ultrasound in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk screening of the carotid artery. We performed ultrasonography of carotid arteries in 96 adults in 3 age groups: senior (age ≥65 years, n = 44), middle age (age 45-64 years, n = 31), and young adults (age 20-44 years, n = 21). The senior group was then divided into subgroups: athletes (n = 21) and non-athletes (n = 23). Ultrasound parameters included carotid intima-media thickness, distensibility coefficient, and presence of plaque(s). Statistical analyses included one-way analysis of variance with post hoc to analyze the differences in ultrasound parameters among the age groups; unpaired t-test to examine differences between hypertensive and normotensive participants, between seniors with and without plaque(s), and between senior athletes and non-athletes; Pearson correlation coefficient to analyze correlations of ultrasound parameters to age and blood pressure; and intraclass correlation coefficient to test intra- and inter-observer reliability in performing multiparametric ultrasound. Carotid intima-media thickness and distensibility coefficient significantly differed among the 3 age groups and between athletes and non-athletes (P< .001). Senior athletes had greater distensibility than non-athletes (all Ps < .05). Carotid intima-media thickness was increased and distensibility was reduced with age and hypertension. Age and blood pressure positively correlated with carotid intima-media thickness (Pearson correlation coefficient, r> .21) and negatively with distensibility coefficient (Pearson correlation coefficient, r< –.48). Inter- and intra-observer reliability in performing multiparametric ultrasound was good (intraclass correlation coefficient, r> .81). Multiparametric ultrasound is a useful tool to assess carotid artery function and morphology comprehensively.

ABSTRACTSkillful quantitative precipitation nowcasting (QPN) is important for predicting precipitation in the upcoming few hours and thus avoiding significant socioeconomic damage. Recent QPN studies have actively adopted deep learning (DL) to generate precipitation maps using sequences of ground radar data. Although high skill scores in forecasting precipitation areas of weak intensity (~1 mm/h) have been achieved, the horizontal movement of precipitation areas could not be accurately simulated, exhibiting poor forecasting skills for stronger intensities. For lead times up to 120 min, this study suggests using an improved radar-based QPN model that utilizes a state-of-the-art DL model termed simpler yet better video prediction (SimVP). An independent evaluation using ground radar data in South Korea from June to September 2022 demonstrated that the proposed model outperformed the existing DL models in terms of critical score index (CSI) with a lead time of 120 min (0.46, 0.23, and 0.09 for 1, 5, and 10 mm/h thresholds, respectively). Three case analyses were conducted to reflect various precipitation conditions: heavy rainfall, typhoons, and fast-moving narrow convection events. The proposed SimVP-based QPN model yielded robust performance for all cases, producing a comparable or highest CSI at the lead time of 120 min with a 1 mm/h threshold (0.49, 0.69, and 0.29 for heavy rainfall, typhoon, and narrow convection, respectively). Qualitative evaluation of the model indicated better results in terms of displacement movement and reduced underestimation than other models under the high variability of precipitation patterns of the three cases. A comparison of model complexity among DL-QPN models was conducted, taking into consideration operational applications across various study areas and environments. The proposed approach is expected to provide a new baseline for DL-based QPN, and the improved prediction using the proposed model can lead to reduced socioeconomic damage incurred as a result of short-term intense precipitation.

Development of non-toxic, ultra-sensitive, and flexible bio-inspired piezoelectric nanogenerator has become a great challenge for next generation biomedical applications. High performance organic/inorganic materials based piezoelectric nanogenerators suffer from several unavoidable problems such as complex synthesis and high toxicity. Biodegradable and biocompatible piezoelectric material is utmost needed in in-vivo condition to harvest energy for biomedical applications. Here, we report a novel bio-piezoelectric nanogenerator (BPNG) using naturally abundant self-aligned cellulose fibrous untreated onion skin (OS) as efficient piezoelectric material having piezoelectric strength of ∼ 2.8 pC/N. The fabricated OSBPNG generated output voltage, current, instantaneous power density and high piezoelectric energy conversion efficiency of ≈ 18V, ≈ 166nA, ≈ 1.7μW/cm2, and ≈ 61.7%, respectively, and turn on 30 green LEDs by a single device under repeated compressive stress of ≈ 34kPa and ≈ 3.0Hz frequency. In addition, maximum output voltage (≈ 106V) was achieved when 6 units are connected in series, which instantaneously turns on 73 combined LEDs (30 green, 25 blue, and 18 red). OSBPNG is highly effective during throat movement such as coughing, drinking and swallowing. Furthermore, because it works at very low pressure originating from heart pulse or beat, it could be used in pacemakers and health care units. Finally, OSBPNG successfully differentiates speech signals, indicating its potential for speech recognition.

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae are emerging as high-throughput, chemical screening assays for investigating congenital cardiomyopathies. Despite distinct anatomical and genomic differences with humans, zebrafish share a conserved regulatory network of transcription factors modulating heart development with mammals. Consequently, external embryonic fertilization and optical transparency in conjunction with fluorescent reporters localizing endogenous proteins provide an ideal platform for studying molecular mechanisms underlying complex human heart development. In this regard, recent advances in Light Sheet Microscopy (LSM) have enabled non-invasive, in vivoreconstruction of dynamic cardiac biomarkers during early stages of embryonic zebrafish heart development. In this review, we discuss development of cardiovascular disease progression pipelines using zebrafish and LSM, to identify genetic and molecular drivers of human cardiac disease.

We developed a compact plane illumination plugin (PIP) device which enabled plane illumination and light sheet fluorescence imaging on a conventional inverted microscope. The PIP device allowed the integration of microscope with tunable laser sheet profile, fast image acquisition, and 3-D scanning. The device is both compact, measuring approximately 15 by 5 by 5 cm, and cost-effective, since we employed consumer electronics and an inexpensive device molding method. We demonstrated that PIP provided significant contrast and resolution enhancement to conventional microscopy through imaging different multi-cellular fluorescent structures, including 3-D branched cells in vitro and live zebrafish embryos. Imaging with the integration of PIP greatly reduced out-of-focus contamination and generated sharper contrast in acquired 2-D plane images when compared with the stand-alone inverted microscope. As a result, the dynamic fluid domain of the beating zebrafish heart was clearly segmented and the functional monitoring of the heart was achieved. Furthermore, the enhanced axial resolution established by thin plane illumination of PIP enabled the 3-D reconstruction of the branched cellular structures, which leads to the improvement on the functionality of the wide field microscopy.

This study analyzed quotation patterns used in articles of the conservative newspaper the Chosunilboand the progressive Hankyoreh. The subject of this study is articles related to the Korea superintendent election that was held on June 4, 2014. In this election, unlike in the past when conservative superintendents were dominant, a sizeable number of progressive candidates were elected. Based on quotations included in articles relating to Korea superintendent election, this study was focused on three aspects: anonymous speaker, speaker of actual name, and predicate in quotation. Both newspapers used anonymous speakers for indirectly revealing opinions against the opponent superintendent. Also, Hankyorehtends to be more clear about speakers with actual name in comparison to Chosunilbo, and this seems to be because the former deals with more sensitive subjects than the latter and, therefore, attempts to establish more objectivity. The predicates most frequently used in the quotes were ‘to speak’ and ‘to reveal’ and these two predicates that suggest objectivity were in fact used for delivering remarks made by a superintendent whose political disposition corresponds to the newspaper.

AbstractMyocardial infarction results in scar tissue and irreversible loss of ventricular function. Unlike humans, zebrafish has the capacity to remove scar tissue after injury. To assess ventricular function during repair, we synchronized microelectrocardiogram (μECG) signals with a high-frequency ultrasound pulsed-wave (PW) Doppler to interrogate cardiac hemodynamics. μECG signals allowed for identification of PW Doppler signals for passive (early [E]-wave velocity) and active ventricular filling (atrial [A]-wave velocity) during diastole. The A wave (9.0±1.2 cm·s−1) is greater than the E wave (1.1±0.4 cm·s−1), resulting in an E/A ratio <1 (0.12±0.05, n=6). In response to cryocauterization to the ventricular epicardium, the E-wave velocity increased, accompanied by a rise in the E/A ratio at 3 days postcryocauterization (dpc) (0.55±0.13, n=6, p<0.001 vs. sham). The E waves normalize toward the baseline, along with a reduction in the E/A ratio at 35 dpc (0.36±0.06, n=6, p<0.001 vs. sham) and 65 dpc (0.2±0.16, n=6, p<0.001 vs. sham). In zebrafish, E/A<1 at baseline is observed, suggesting the distinct two-chamber system in which the pressure gradient across the atrioventricular valve is higher compared with the ventriculobulbar valve. The initial rise and subsequent normalization of E/A ratios support recovery in the ventricular diastolic function.

Low-pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD) is a simple and useful method for the large-area synthesis of graphene films. Here, we have investigated how to adjust and optimize process conditions for the synthesis of single-layer graphene films by LPCVD. Through our experimental procedure, uniform and high-quality graphene films could be grown on Cu foil at 1000 °C for 20 min with an H2flow rate of 20 sccm, CH4flow rate of 40 sccm, total pressure of 1.7 Torr, and a fast cooling rate (${>}10$ °C/s). In a Raman spectrum measured from synthesized graphene film, we found that the full width at half-maximum (FWHM) of a symmetric 2D peak centered at 2682.5 cm-1was 34 cm-1and the 2D-to-G intensity ratio was 1.35.

Methyl methacrylate (MMA) was polymerized in the presence of polycarbonate (PC) by ultrasonic irradiation‐initiated polymerization. The resulting products consisted of mixtures of homopolymers of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), PC and PC‐PMMA copolymer because of the homopolymerization of MMA itself and copolymerization with macroradicals of PC. Formation of the PC‐PMMA copolymer was confirmed by FTIR analysis of the reaction products after a proper extraction of free PMMA from the mixture. In order to verify the effectiveness of the PC‐PMMA copolymer as a compatibilizer for PC/styrene‐co‐ acrylonitrile (SAN) blend, 5 phr of PC‐PMMA was added during melt mixing of PC/SAN in a batch mixer. It was found from the investigation of morphology and rheological properties that interphase of SAN and PC was fortified by numerous ligaments of PC‐PMMA copolymer, which resulted in increase of melt viscosity and storage modulus of the blend.

AbstractWe propose a dual in‐plane parallel electrode structure of a vertical configuration of a helix‐deformed ferroelectric liquid crystal (HDFLC) mode for better brightness than a single in‐plain electrode case. This structure provides high brightness in addition to the analog gray scale capability, fast response, and wide‐viewing characteristics. In contrast to a conventional HDFLC in a planar geometry, smectic layers arrange themselves parallel to the substrates and thus extremely uniform alignment of molecules in a large area is naturally achieved in our new configuration.

The famous modernist architect Richard Neutra argued that movement through, and understanding of a building could be choreographed by controlling the visual stimuli that is available to a person. These claims are tested by quantifying the lines of sight and intelligibility of five of Neutra's residential designs. A computational method, weighted axial line analysis, is used to investigate lines of sight and movement in five of Neutra's house designs. The cumulative lengths of axial lines required to reach public and private spaces are compared, and centrality measures are calculated for each design that are weighted with line length data. Intelligibility metrics are calculated from these centrality measures. The first hypothesis, that visual stimuli in Neutra's architecture is greater when accessing public rather than private spaces is supported by the results. The second hypothesis, that Neutra's architecture is highly intelligible, is not supported by the results. This research tests two theories used to explain the works of a famous architect and it develops a new variation of well-known Space Syntax technique, to account for axial line lengths.

Andrea Palladio’s Renaissance villas are amongst the most famous and widely studied examples of domestic architecture ever produced. The majority of past research about Palladio’s architecture employed historical, mathematical and computational methods to analyse their complex proportional systems and rules. In contrast, this paper examines three of Palladio’s arguments about his villas plans which relate to their spatial properties and topological connections. Specifically, this paper uses a computational method – the justified plan graph (JPG) – to test two arguments about the location and significance of the primary salon on the plan, and a third about the extent to which the rooms in Palladio’s plans are, as he claims, flexible enough to contain alternative functions. Using ten of Palladio’s piano nobile(main floor) plans from I Quattro Libri Dell'Architetturaas cases, this paper develops mathematical data to test three hypotheses framed around Palladio’s plans and theories.

Tin disulfide (SnS2) thin films were deposited by a thermal atomic layer deposition (ALD) method at low temperatures. The physical, chemical, and electrical characteristics of SnS2 were investigated as a function of the film thickness. SnS2 exhibited a (001) hexagonal plane peak at 14.9deg in the X-ray diffraction (XRD) results and an A1g peak at 311 cm[?]1 in the Raman spectra. These results demonstrate that SnS2 thin films grown at 150 degC showed a crystalline phase at film thicknesses above 11.2 nm. The crystallinity of the SnS2 thin films was evaluated by a transmission electron microscope (TEM). The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis revealed that SnS2 consisted of Sn4+ and S2[?] valence states. Both the optical band gap and the transmittance of SnS2 decreased as the film thickness increased. The band gap of SnS2 decreased from 3.0 to 2.4 eV and the transmittance decreased from 85 to 32% at a wavelength of 400 nm. In addition, the resistivity of the thin film SnS2 decreased from 1011 to 106 O*cm as the film thickness increased.