Search

There is a lack of data for the incidence of heart failure (HF) according to changes in smoking behaviors.

IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is a progressive form of kidney disease defined by glomerular deposition of IgA. Here we performed a genome-wide association study of 10,146 kidney-biopsy-diagnosed IgAN cases and 28,751 controls across 17 international cohorts. We defined 30 genome-wide significant risk loci explaining 11% of disease risk. A total of 16 loci were new, including TNFSF4/TNFSF18, REL, CD28, PF4V1, LY86, LYN, ANXA3, TNFSF8/TNFSF15, REEP3, ZMIZ1, OVOL1/RELA, ETS1, IGH, IRF8, TNFRSF13Band FCAR. The risk loci were enriched in gene orthologs causing abnormal IgA levels when genetically manipulated in mice. We also observed a positive genetic correlation between IgAN and serum IgA levels. High polygenic score for IgAN was associated with earlier onset of kidney failure. In a comprehensive functional annotation analysis of candidate causal genes, we observed convergence of biological candidates on a common set of inflammatory signaling pathways and cytokine ligand–receptor pairs, prioritizing potential new drug targets.

The increasing application of computer technologies in architecture has facilitated interactive collaboration between form-finding and realization. In contrast to conventional methods, various form-finding processes embedded in digital media have recently been investigated. Robotic technologies have also been utilized to execute hazardous tasks and to perform more challenging and complex fabrication in architecture. In this study, we experiment with form-finding and robotic fabrication to explore innovative design possibilities. After selecting a particular site, we determine a rigorous geometric form for construction. Structural analysis of the design is performed to verify the stress distribution and failure mechanisms. The design employs an industrial robotic arm with a hot-wire end-effector to determine an optimum method for full-scale assembly and on-site installation of the design. Finally, this study accurately verifies the constructability of the designed form and evaluated the challenges and opportunities associated with the process. The findings demonstrate that this approach complements the potential impacts of the design process, practice, and aesthetics.

Even though bony defects can be recovered to their original condition with full functionality, critical-sized bone injuries continue to be a challenge in clinical fields due to deficiencies in the scaffolding matrix and growth factors at the injury region. In this study, we prepared bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2)-loaded porous particles as a bioactive bone graft for accelerated bone regeneration. The porous particles with unique leaf-stacked morphology (LSS particles) were fabricated by a simple cooling procedure of hot polycaprolactone (PCL) solution. The unique leaf-stacked structure in the LSS particles provided a large surface area and complex release path for the sufficient immobilization of BMP-2 and sustained release of BMP-2 for 26 days. The LSS was also recognized as a topographical cue for cell adhesion and differentiation. In in vitrocell culture and in vivoanimal study using a canine mandible defect model, BMP-2-immobilized LSS particles provided a favorable environment for osteogenic differentiation of stem cells and bone regeneration. In vitrostudy suggests a dual stimulus of bone mineral-like (leaf-stacked) structure (a physical cue) and continuously supplied BMP-2 (a biological cue) to be the cause of this improved healing outcome. Thus, LSS particles containing BMP-2 can be a promising bioactive grafting material for effective new bone formation.

Purpose: Among others in South Vietnam, the Temple of Literature in Vinh Long is the only one that has preserved its original form and layout. As such in 1991, the temple was recognized by the Ministry of Culture as a national-level historical and cultural relic. Nevertheless, the temple has been neither studied nor documented to any great depth. Only a few historical descriptions for local tour guidebooks and photo catalogs exist. Therefore this paper aims to initially record heritage values, spatial characteristics and the process of major changes, while documenting the current state of the temple structure and carrying out on-site inspections to survey the buildings. Design/methodology/approach: This paper outlines the collection of survey data through field survey and provides an overview of the existing significant heritage factors of the Temple of Literature in Vinh Long by comparative examination in relation to other surviving temples and analyzing its unique spatial characteristics and indigenous cultural decorations in detail. Findings: Although the layout of the temples was influenced by the Chinese Confucius's principles and the notion of Feng Shui, it is evident from the study that the design of the temple has many architectural elements that reveal Vietnam's unique culture and local features. In particular, the Temple of Literature in Vinh Long was a symbol of feudal education, symbolizing sacred traditional values in the field of education for the people of Vinh Long province. Stone steles recorded names of all contributors related to the construction and restoration of the temple with sincere gratitude. Moreover, many of the decorative motifs contain many indigenous cultural and artistic values of Vietnam, reflecting traditional Vietnamese beliefs and ethnographic features. Research limitations/implications: By comparatively analyzing the temple with others, it reveals the unique spatial features, layouts, changes and evolutions of the temple. Unlike the oldest and the largest Temple of Literature in Hanoi, the temples in the South are much smaller in terms of complex sizes and the number of buildings. They are mostly composed of a singular structure, the Attained Talent House, with some basic gates and water features interwoven within the landscape of the site. Based on the elementary layout, some subsidiary buildings were added according to the needs and site conditions, and in accordance with the bilateral axis. Social implications: The awareness and preservation of the architectural features of the local temple are needed to protect heritage monuments and to enhance cultural resources as part of securing Vietnamese ideology for a longer period of time. While the interest in historic preservation and conservation activities of heritage buildings in Vietnam has slowly grown in attention over the last decade, it is evident that many opportunities remain. It is hoped that this research is a small step toward further research, education and advocacy in the preservation of historic buildings in Vietnam. Originality/value: The introduction of Chinese Confucian thought to Vietnam was one of the most substantial influences in Vietnamese intellectual history. Despite being an important part of the nation's architectural, cultural and intellectual heritage sites, the study and documentation of the Temples of Literature have been relatively neglected or marginalized. Accordingly, this study is significant to reveal not only the values and unique heritage characteristics of the temple, but also to prioritize resources for continued study and preservation.

Miyoji Yoneda’s controversial 1940 paper analyzing the compositional method of the Seokguram grotto triggered a series of debates among historians and critics about Yoneda’s approach. Surprisingly, much of the discussions after Yoneda focused on visually plausible diagrams full of rhetoric. However, their arguments have been weak and unconvincing without reliable demonstration. This paper begins by discussing mathematical knowledge at the time of the Grotto’s construction. Next, it outlines and proves that the Gougurule provides the fundamental method for organizing the grotto layout. This paper sheds light on long-standing debates centered on the design method of the grotto and clarifies the underlying design principle.

Purpose: This paper focuses on the evolution of and changes in French colonial architectural designs over time in terms of the use of vernacular architectural features of Vietnam. Design/methodology/approach: It first examines the underlying principles of spatial compositions behind traditional vernacular architecture, thus revealing vernacular architectural values that have survived from the past. Styles of vernacular houses differ by region; thus, their unique spatial characteristics are analyzed by selecting the typical houses in each region. The study also illuminates ecological features and technical norms tailored to the local climate and Vietnamese traditional architecture. It examines how local and regional characters of vernacular houses affect the developments and changes in the French colonial public buildings in Vietnam, forming an identity that represents an eclectic Indochina style with the adaptation of local discourses on climate. Findings: The Vietnamese have developed unique architectural styles that are inextricably linked to their identities, cultures, climates and livelihoods – for example, vernacular houses. Although at the beginning of the colonial period, the French imported their styles, decorations and details, which were foreign to the Vietnamese, later, they perhaps realized that such direct import was no longer suitable for the natural and socio-cultural situation of the colony. Toward the end of the colonial period, it is noticeable that French colonial architects gradually started using local design principles. Research limitations/implications: Although many existing buildings can be further added for the discussion, we limit a few cases, due to the length of the paper. Social implications: This paper proves that toward the end of the colonial period, colonial architecture in Vietnam became increasingly localized, adapting to the local environment and climate. The buildings during the period were gradually associated with Vietnamese culture and sentiment. Originality/value: Although few papers deal with the vernacular architecture in Vietnam with regard to local climate and regional characteristics, there are no paper that related the vernacular Vietnamese houses to influence the French colonial designs in Vietnam. Therefore the paper has value and significance.

Purpose: This study examines spatial layouts and sustainable features of vernacular houses in southern Vietnam to apply the lessons learned to the development of a contemporary housing design. This study proposes hypothetical low-rise street-house models popular in contemporary urban Vietnam by applying the spatial and ecological lessons learned from the analysis. Design/methodology/approach: In total, 23 well-preserved vernacular houses in Dong Hoa Hiep – an 18th century village in the Tien Giang Province – were chosen for a 2-month, on-site investigation. During the field survey, the houses were measured to fabricate scale drawings for detailed analysis, and photographs were taken. Findings: An in-depth evaluation highlighted unique characteristics of spatial compositions, sustainable features, and architectural components that contribute to climate adaptive strategies. Research limitations/implications: Although numerous potential arrangements of the models are possible, a few examples are illustrated to validate that the assembly could help achieve a dynamic streetscape for street houses. Social implications: From this perspective, vernacular houses in Vietnam are a rich architectural resource and a significant cultural heritage, because these houses have adopted sustainable design strategies suitable for the local climate and culture to ensure comfort and well-being for a long time. Perhaps, sustainable lessons drawn from Vietnam's indigenous houses are a prerequisite to developing contemporary housing in the country. Originality/value: Employing the lessons learned from vernacular houses, this study developed three sustainable prototypical designs for the development of contemporary street houses in densely populated cities in Vietnam.

ABSTRACTImpaired macroautophagy/autophagy has been implicated in experimental and human nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). However, the mechanism underlying autophagy dysregulation in NASH is largely unknown. Here, we investigated the role and mechanism of TXNIP/VDUP1 (thioredoxin interacting protein), a key mediator of cellular stress responses, in the pathogenesis of NASH. Hepatic TXNIP expression was upregulated in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients and in methionine choline-deficient (MCD) diet-fed mice, as well as in palmitic acid (PA)-treated hepatocytes. Upregulation of hepatic TXNIP was positively correlated with impaired autophagy, as evidenced by a decreased number of MAP1LC3B/LC3B (microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta) puncta and increased SQSTM1/p62 (sequestosome 1) expression. Deletion of the Txnipgene enhanced hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis, accompanied by impaired autophagy and fatty acid oxidation (FAO) in MCD diet-fed mice. Mechanistically, TXNIP directly interacted with and positively regulated p-PRKAA, leading to inactivation of MTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase) complex 1 (MTORC1) and nuclear translocation of TFEB (transcription factor EB), which in turn promoted autophagy. Inhibition of MTORC1 by rapamycin induced autophagy and increased the expression levels of FAO-related genes and concomitantly attenuated lipid accumulation in PA-treated txnip-knockout (KO) hepatocytes, which was further abolished by silencing of Atg7. Rapamycin treatment also attenuated MCD diet-induced steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis with increased TFEB nuclear translocation and restored FAO in txnip-KO mice. Our findings suggest that elevated TXNIP ameliorates steatohepatitis by interacting with PRKAA and thereby inducing autophagy and FAO. Targeting TXNIP may be a potential therapeutic approach for NASH.Abbreviations:ACOX1: acyl-Coenzyme A oxidase 1, palmitoyl; ACSL1: acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 1; ACTA2/α-SMA: actin, alpha 2, smooth muscle, aorta; ACTB: actin beta; ADGRE1/F4/80: adhesion G protein-coupled receptor E1; AMPK: AMP-activated protein kinase; ATG: autophagy-related; BafA1: bafilomycin A1; COL1A1/Col1α1: collagen, type I, alpha 1; CPT1A: carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1a, liver; CQ: chloroquine; DGAT1: diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 1; DGAT2: diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 2; ECI2/Peci: enoyl-Coenzyme A isomerase 2; EHHADH: enoyl-Coenzyme A, hydratase/3-hydroxyacyl Coenzyme A dehydrogenase; FAO: fatty acid oxidation; FASN: fatty acid synthase; FFA: free fatty acids; GFP: green fluorescent protein; GK/GYK: glycerol kinase; GOT1/AST: glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase 1, soluble; GPAM: glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase, mitochondrial; GPT/ALT: glutamic pyruvic transaminase, soluble; H&E: hematoxylin and eosin; IL1B/IL-1β: interleukin 1 beta; IL6: interleukin 6; IOD: integral optical density; KO: knockout; Leu: leupeptin; LPIN1: lipin 1; MAP1LC3B/LC3B: microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta; MCD: methionine choline-deficient; MMP9: matrix metallopeptidase 9; mRNA: messenger RNA; MTORC1: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase complex 1; NAFLD: nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases; NASH: nonalcoholic steatohepatitis; PA: palmitic acid; PPARA/PPARα: peroxisome proliferator activated receptor alpha; PPARG/PPARγ: peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma; qRT-PCR: quantitative real-time PCR; RPS6KB1/p70S6K1: ribosomal protein S6 kinase, polypeptide 1; RPTOR: regulatory associated protein of MTOR complex 1; SCD1: stearoyl-Coenzyme A desaturase 1; SEM: standard error of the mean; siRNA: small interfering RNA; SQSTM1/p62: sequestosome 1; TFEB: transcription factor EB; TG: triglyceride; TGFB/TGF-β: transforming growth factor, beta; TIMP1: tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1; TNF/TNF-α: tumor necrosis factor; TXNIP/VDUP1: thioredoxin interacting protein; WT: wild-type

The article focuses on Hangeul, a writing system for the Korean language created by King Sejong the Great in the mid 15th century. Topics discussed include the evolution of writing systems, the invention of Hangeul, and the principles and usage of the Korean script. Also mentioned are the alignment of spoken and written Korean, King Sejong's commitment to creating an alphabet for the ordinary people, and the adoption and proliferation of Hangeul.

Background: Although previous reports have found that obesity intensifies the negative impact of long-term air pollution exposure on the low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) level, few studies have examined whether the type of abdominal adiposity, such as visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and the visceral-to-subcutaneous fat ratio (VSR) affects this relationship. We investigated the association between ambient air pollution and LDL-C in Korean adults and identified whether this association is different by the type of abdominal adiposity. Methods: A total of 2737 adults were included. Abdominal fat areas were quantified by computed tomography, and the annual average concentration of air pollutants was included in this analysis. Results: In the total sample, none of the air pollutants was associated with LDL-C level in either the crude or adjusted model (all p> 0.05). The association was not significant even in subgroups stratified according to the obesity status defined by body mass index, and no interaction on the LDL-C level was also found (all pint> 0.05). In the subgroup analysis stratified according to adiposity level, particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of ≤10 μm (PM10) [β(SE) = 3.58 (1.59); p= 0.0245] and sulfur dioxide (SO2) exposures [β(SE) = 2.71 (1.27); p= 0.0330] in the high-VAT group were associated with the increased LDL-C level. Interactions on LDL-C level were also found between VAT level and ambient air pollutants such as PM10and SO2(both pint< 0.05). In the analysis of the VSR, PM10exposure showed a significant interaction on LDL level (pint= 0.0032). However, the strength of these associations was not significant across all SAT subgroup (all pint> 0.05). Conclusions: In conclusion, we found that association between air pollution exposure and LDL-C level is different by abdominal fat distribution.

This article introduces a formal method with regard to point group symmetry in the analysis and construction of housing units and their arrangements. Gregory Ain’s Mar Vista Tract is the focus of this study. In this paper guiding principles of Ain’s housing unit layouts and their arrangements in a city block are examined with respect to the symmetry principle. With the same method, combinatorial possibilities of the units and their arrangements are tested and computed to see how many possible designs can be generated. Finally, streetscape perspectives are generated to illustrate how they would appear when new design features are added.

It is accepted that biomimetic supply of signaling molecules during bone regeneration can provide an appropriate environment for accelerated new bone formation. In this study, we developed a growth factor delivery system based on porous particles and a thermosensitive hydrogel that allowed fast, continuous, and delayed/continuous release of growth factors to mimic their biological production during bone regeneration. It was observed that the Continuous group (continuous release of growth factors) provides a better environment for the osteogenic differentiation of hPDCs than the Biomimetic group (biomimetic release of growth factors), and thus is anticipated to promote bone regeneration. However, contrary to expectation, the Biomimetic group promoted significant new bone formation compared to the Continuous group. From the systematic cell culture experiments, the initial supply of VEGF was considered to have more favorable effects on the osteoclastogenesis than osteogenesis, which may hinder bone regeneration. Our results indicated that the continuous supply of VEGF (in particular, at early stage) from VEGF-loaded biomaterial might not be conducive to new bone formation. Therefore, we suggest that a biomimetic supply of growth factors is a more pivotal parameter for sufficient tissue regeneration. Its use as a molecular delivery system may also serve as a useful tool for the investigation of biological processes and molecules during tissue regeneration processes.

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the associations between ambient air pollutants, obesity, and kidney function. Subjects/methods: We enrolled 3345 people who had undergone health checkups at Seoul National University Hospital. We recorded the annual average concentrations of ambient air pollutants, including particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of ≤10 μm (PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon monoxide (CO), in each subject’s residential area. Various obesity traits, such as body mass index, waist circumference, and visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue areas, were measured by quantified computerized tomography (CT), and kidney function was assessed in relation to estimated glomerular filtration rate as an indicator of kidney function. Results: High PM10, NO2, SO2, and CO concentrations were significantly associated with decreased kidney function (β= −2.39 and standard error = 0.32, −1.00 and 0.31, −1.23 and 0.28, and −1.32 and 0.29, respectively), and with the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The association between air pollutant concentrations and decreased kidney function, including CKD, was stronger among those with high abdominal adiposity, as defined by CT measurement. For example, the association between increased concentrations of air pollutants and the prevalence of CKD was stronger in the group with greater visceral adiposity than in the group with less visceral adiposity (aORs = 1.29 vs 1.16 for PM10, 1.42 vs 1.21 for SO2, and 1.27 vs 1.11 for CO). Conclusions: Long-term exposure to higher concentrations of air pollutants was unfavorably associated with kidney function and CKD prevalence, especially in people with abdominal obesity. This may indicate a high susceptibility to air pollutants in obese people.

Background: This study aimed to compare the clinical results between osteochondral autologous transplantation (OAT) and dorsiflexion closing wedge metatarsal osteotomy (DCWMO) in symptomatic adult patients with late-stage Freiberg disease.Methods: Between 2012 and 2017, patients with late-stage Freiberg disease surgically treated with OAT (12 patients) or DCWMO (15 patients) were retrospectively identified. The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society–lesser metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal (AOFAS-LMI) score, visual analog scale score for subjective pain, and range of motion (ROM) were determined preoperatively and at final follow-up. Postoperative complications were also recorded.Results: The AOFAS-LMI score at final follow-up was significantly greater in the OAT group than in the DCWMO group (95.7 vs 87.9, P< .001), whereas plantarflexion at final follow-up was significantly lower in the DCWMO group than in the OAT group (30.0 vs 24.0 degrees, P= .037). The DCWMO group reported more postoperative complications including postoperative joint stiffness, deformity, and pain recurrence. In the OAT group, one patient complained of mild knee pain.Conclusion: OAT seemed a better procedure for late-stage Freiberg disease compared with DCWMO in adult patients in terms of postoperative functional score and ROM, with lower complication rates.Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective comparative study.

ABSTRACTRudolph M. Schindler’s revolutionary theories and designs, which were clearly ahead of his time, have gradually been recognized for their ingenuity. His work would equip him to represent the American modern avant-garde. Many architects find it difficult to leave behind working conventions. Perhaps, only a few in the profession have challenged conventional thinking and working traditions, including Schindler. Among Schindler’s oeuvre, the beach house built for Anna Olga Zacsek is unique in terms of its systematic interplay of the diagonal axis and his unit grid design. Unfortunately, the building was demolished before becoming extensively known in the architectural community. Many scholars and commentators have briefly commented on the house, yet there has been no in-depth study. Thus, the surviving archival drawings were read and reconstructing, and a physical scale model was fabricated. These were used to uncover the house’s unique spatial characteristics and to expose the underlying logic of it spatial composition.

The contribution of advanced nanoscale chemical and biological devices to life science has been limited to a small number of nanomaterials, due to the absence of effective surface modification routes. Herein, we demonstrate a polymer-like nanosheath synthesized by nonthermal plasma technology (NPT) that can protect the core nanomaterial from the solution environment and provide a multifunctional platform for chemical and biological nanosensors. For ZnO nanowires (NWs) which are unstable in solution, we demonstrate that this nanosheath makes it possible for ZnO NW field-effect transistors to act as a pH sensor for 24 h and a biosensor for the real-time, label-free detection of liver cancer markers.

Los Angeles architect Gregory Ain’s series of housing projects are reviewed and analyzed with regard to the frieze groups of symmetry. Ain was very conscious of utilizing a simple reflection and translation method of arranging prototypical units along a street. He argues that although such a method is simple, it would be enough to create a variable housing layout and a diverse look. First, this article briefly introduces a formal methodology with regard to frieze symmetry in the analysis and design of housing arrangements. The concept is then applied to review a series of Ain’s housing designs, which demonstrate the use of the method in his consecutive designs. Finally, the same method is applied to test possible alternative arrangements to create a dynamic streetscape. The notion of parametric designs may be applied to transform the typical unit to generate a variety of dissimilar designs.

We demonstrated the effects of monolayer graphene and hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) on the stability and detection performance of two types of substrates in surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS): a two-dimensional (2D) monolayer/Ag nanoparticle (NP) substrate and a Au NP/2D monolayer/Ag NP substrate. Graphene and h-BN, which have different electrical and chemical properties, were introduced in close contact with the metal NPs and had distinctly different effects on the plasmonic near-field interactions between metal NPs in the subnanometer-scale gap and on the electron transport behavior. A quantitative comparison was possible due to reproducible SERS signals across the entire substrates prepared by simple and inexpensive fabrication methods. The hybrid platform, an insulating h-BN monolayer covering the Ag NP substrate, ensured the long-term oxidative stability for over 80 days, which was superior to the stability achieved using conducting graphene. Additionally, a sandwich structure using an h-BN monolayer exhibited excellent SERS sensitivity with a detection limit for rhodamine 6G as low as 10–12M; to the best of our knowledge, this is the best SERS detection limit achieved using monolayer h-BN as a gap-control material. In this study, we suggest an efficient strategy for hybridizing the desired 2D layers with metal nanostructures for SERS applications, where the substrate stability and electromagnetic field enhancement are particularly crucial for the various applications that utilize metal/2D hybrid structures.

Background: Several significant associations between air pollution and thyroid function have been reported, but few studies have identified whether these associations differ by obesity, particularly its regional distribution. We assessed the relationship between ambient air pollution and thyroid hormone, and whether this relationship is modified by abdominal adiposity, as indicated by the waist circumference, visceral adipose tissue (VAT), subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and visceral-to-subcutaneous fat ratio (VSR) in Korean men. Methods: We included 2440 male adults in the final analysis and used each person’s annual average exposure to four air pollutants: particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤ 10 μm (PM10), nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon monoxide (CO). Abdominal fat deposition was quantified by computed tomography. Serum thyrotropin (TSH) and free thyroxine (FT4) concentrations were measured for thyroid hormone. To evaluate the relationship between air pollution and thyroid hormone according to adiposity, we performed multiple linear regression analysis on the two subgroups stratified by abdominal fat level. Results: Abdominal adiposity was significantly related to FT4concentration. The exposures to air pollutants were associated with increased TSH and decreased FT4concentrations. In stratified analysis using abdominal fat traits, ambient air pollution except for SO2was significantly related to increased TSH and decreased FT4concentrations in the high adiposity group (all p&lt; 0.05), but not in the normal adiposity group. Among the air pollutants, PM10showed an association with an increase of TSH concentration in all group with high adiposity, including high VAT, high SAT, and high VSR groups (all p&lt; 0.05). In case of FT4, CO showed a similar pattern. Among the abdominal fat-related traits, the VSR in the high adiposity group had the largest effect on the relationship between exposure to air pollutants and thyroid hormone. Conclusions: This study suggests the first clue that the relationship between air pollution exposure and thyroid hormone differs according to abdominal fat distribution among Korean adult males.

Architecture is considered to be a mirror of societies that reflect the natural environment and social values of its people. The vocabularies oftraditional architecture are used for specific functions to respond to various issues. Mashrabiya, as a wooden window screen in old times, was introduced to cover openings and windows for social and climatic reasonsthat reflectparticular eras in Middle Eastern areas. With modern technology, Mashrabiya has been reintroduced with changes in its design, mechanism, and materials. This study examined the use of Mashrabiya inhistorical and environmental aspects of architecture in Middle Eastern areas. First, this paper discusses the historical and cultural background, and comparesthe different typologies of Mashrabiya indifferent areas because its shapes differslightly from country to country. The techniques of Mashrabiya in contemporary architectureare then investigated in terms of how it has been adapted in contemporary buildings. Finally, its potential optionsin contemporary buildings are discussed.

Architectural identity reflects the characteristics of a country′s people, environment, and society. Owing to recent globalization, the unique architectural identity of countries has faded so that it has become difficult to identify each country′s unique local and regional identity. In particular, traditional houses in Cairo, which are known as Cairene houses, are considered an iconic style of the city′s architectural history. Cairo has a unique local identity as well as spatial quality mainly found in the region. On the other hand, many of the values and qualities of the houses have been disappearing due to western influences. The objectives of this paper are threefold. First, the Egyptian cultural and environmental influences on Egyptian housing designs are discussed. Second, the spatial composition of traditional Cairene courtyard houses is analyzed. Finally, the underlying principles of spatial compositions are extracted to explain the unique spatial characteristics of the houses. Through the analysis, the distinct spatial quality of traditional Cairene courtyard houses in Cairo will be analyzed, revealing their identity and values.

With symmetry, complex designs as a whole can be decomposed to several parts for analysis. On the other hand, these parts can be recombined into multiple sequential designs using the same principles. The complementary applications of the symmetry idea are extremely valuable in a constructive sense. This article discusses the seven frieze groups of symmetry and subsymmetry as a compositional device in the analysis and synthesis of building facades. A few housing facades are analyzed with respect to the symmetry and a new façade design in rows of houses, where all seven frieze groups of symmetry are overlaid, is constructed to demonstrate the application of symmetry in a formal composition.

A loose part monitoring system is used to identify unexpected loose parts in a nuclear reactor vessel or steam generator. It is still necessary for the mass estimation of loose parts, one function of a loose part monitoring system, to develop a new method due to the high estimation error of conventional methods such as Hertz's impact theory and the frequency ratio method. The purpose of this study is to propose a mass estimation method using a Markov decision process and compare its performance with a method using an artificial neural network model proposed in a previous study. First, how to extract feature vectors using discrete cosine transform was explained. Second, Markov chains were designed with codebooks obtained from the feature vector. A 1/8-scaled mockup of the reactor vessel for OPR1000 was employed, and all used signals were obtained by impacting its surface with several solid spherical masses. Next, the performance of mass estimation by the proposed Markov model was compared with that of the artificial neural network model. Finally, it was investigated that the proposed Markov model had matching error below 20% in mass estimation. That was a similar performance to the method using an artificial neural network model and considerably improved in comparison with the conventional methods.

An emergency shelter design as an immediate response to assist people in disaster situations was evaluated in this study. The design experiment concerns the use of recyclable paper tubes and simple construction techniques so that unskilled labor can quickly and readily assemble the shelter where required. The design exercise is a result of a joint effort of a group of architecture students at Inha University with the help of an architect, Shigeru Ban, who is renowned for his innovative work with paper tubes. In the first phase, five different design alternatives for a short term recovery option are proposed and in the second phase, a design was selected and developed on the full scale to demonstrate its design and assembly technique.

Abstract

The intrinsic spatial resolution of the detector is an important aspect to reconstruct high quality nuclear medicine images. In order to realize a high spatial resolution, small pixelated Cerium doped Gd3Al2Ga3O12 (Ce:GAGG) scintillators–known for their high light output, high density and relatively fast decay time, were coupled to a digital silicon photomultiplier (dSiPM) for read out. This detector module consists of a $ {24 \times 24}$ Ce:GAGG scintillator block of 0.4 mm $ {\times }0.4$ mm $ {\times }5$ mm crystal elements and a 2 mm thick light guide made of acrylic resin. The digital silicon photomultiplier (dSiPM), DPC-3200-22-44, was used to acquire 2-D position histogram, energy resolution and coincidence timing resolution. The 2-dimensional position histogram of the Ce:GAGG block detector irradiated with 22Na gamma photons showed that most pixels were clearly resolved with an average peak-to-valley (P/V) ratio of ~3.4. The average energy resolution of the Ce:GAGG block detector was 17.8%. At trigger scheme 1 ( $ {1}^{\mathrm {st}}$ photon trigger), the coincidence timing resolution was 342 ± 7 ps FHWM when acquired in coincidence with a 2 mm $ {\times }2$ mm $ {\times }6$ mm LSO crystal (after skew correction). This study demonstrates that a pixelated Ce:GAGG block coupled with dSiPM provides good position performance and time resolution. We conclude that the highly pixelated Ce:GAGG detector module may be a good candidate for implementing ultrahigh resolution nuclear medicine systems and applications requiring good timing resolution.

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

During the late phase of severe accidents of light water reactors, a porous debris bed is expected to develop on the bottom of the flooded reactor cavity after breakup of the melt in water. The geometrical configuration, i.e., internal and external characteristics, of the debris bed is significant for the adequate assessment of the coolability of the relocated corium. The internal structure of a debris bed was investigated experimentally using the DAVINCI (Debris bed research Apparatus for Validation of the bubble-Induced Natural Convection effect Issue) test facility. Particle sedimentation under the influence of a two-phase natural convection flow due to the decay heat in the debris bed was simulated by dropping various sizes of particles into a water vessel with air bubble injection from the bottom. Settled particles were collected and sieved to obtain the particle mass, size distribution in the radial and axial positions, and the bed porosity and permeability. The experimental results showed that the center part of the particle bed tended to have larger particles than the peripheral area. For the axial distribution, the lower layer had a higher fraction of larger particles. As the sedimentation progressed, the size distribution in the upper layers can shift to larger sizes because of the higher vapor generation rate and stronger flow intensity.

The corrosion property of three different steels is evaluated in a sweet environment with respect to Mn content and Cr addition. The result shows that high Mn content in steel suppresses the formation of protective FeCO3 scale and it decreases its corrosion resistance in sweet environment. However, addition of 3 wt% Cr improves the stability of the corrosion product formed on high Mn steel. As the immersion time increases, the barrier effect of scale formed on high Mn steel containing 3 wt% Cr becomes better by the formation of both (Cr,Fe)-hydroxide layer and Cr-rich Fe carbonate layer.

A 2-year-old intact female miniature Pinscher weighing 1.7 kg with a body condition score of 2/5 was presented for acute vomiting, lethargy for 2 days, and large petechial skin lesions on the hip region including the tail. Acute pancreatitis was diagnosed by clinical signs, strong positive cPLI test, laboratory test and ultrasound appearance. While the clinical signs associated with acute pancreatitis had improved in 3–5 days, lesion of petechial appeared on the left hip region 7 days after the presentation, with a fast progression into a necrotic tissue along the left side hip. Allogenic platelet rich plasma (PRP) with Weibrich and Kleis method was administered to promote skin healing and regeneration. Gradual and complete improvement in the dog’s wound lesions was noted approximately 1 month after applying allogeneic topical PRP. In this case report, allogeneic PRP was applied to a large regional cutaneous defect caused by coagulopathy induced by acute pancreatitis. Topical application of PRP in this case was unique in that allogeneic PRP was used instead of autologous PRP for the first time in cutaneous soft-tissue wound management in the veterinary medical field.

AbstrctSchindler′s career reflects a strong commitment to theory and practice, a respect and appreciation for traditions of architecture, and a sharp wit to transform these lessons to local ends. Schindler searched for an architectural expression that would reflect the climate, landscape, and culture of Southern California. His reputation can be compared to architects like Alvar Aalto, Eileen Gray and Hans Scharoun, as noted in ′The Other Tradition of Modern Architecture′ by Colin St John Wilson.1This paper examines Schindler′s principles that consciously shaped the design of his dwellings. Using Schindler′s own definitions, three programs are categorized in this discussion: locality, materiality, and views.

Effect of weak carbide formers, Mo, Mn and Si, on intergranular corrosion (IGC) of low-Cr ferritic stainless steel is analyzed after IGC test using TEM and three dimensional atom probe. The co-addition of Mo, Mn and Si to low-Cr ferritic stainless steel effectively prevents IGC by forming along grain boundaries CMn4MoSi intermetallic compounds, which act not only as carbon trap sites but also as diffusion barrier against solute Cr diffusion toward grain boundaries. The low solubility of Cr in the CMn4MoSi intermetallic compound results in replenishing Cr in the Cr-depleted area.

The new pooled cohort risk (PCR) equations is sex- and race-specific estimates of the 10-year risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular events among disease-free adults. Little is known about the association between the PCR model and presence of silent brain infarction (SBI).

AbstractThe masonry arch is one of the oldest structural designs used to span openings of considerable length. Although a variety of forms of brick masonry arches have been used for aesthetic reasons throughout the history of architecture, the unique employment of simple geometric forms is conspicuous in Louis Kahn′s buildings. In particular, Kahn has distinctively used overlaid circles cut into the building façade for window openings. The research elaborates on how Kahn juxtaposed circular shapes for the design of window openings in his buildings, particularly in the Indian Institute of Management (1962-74) and National Capital Complex in Bangladesh (1962-83).

Accounting for seventy five percent of urban housing in Vietnam, street houses refer to a mixed-use housing typology that emerged in the 17th century. Such housing has evolved in response to Vietnam's unique culture and environmental conditions. Residential and commercial functions are integrated in a flexible and expandable manner, creating a variety of compositional possibilities in spatial layouts. In addition, transitional spaces such as courtyards, balconies, loggia, and terraces provide shading, cooling, and ventilation effects throughout the building. As one of the most adaptive and popular urban dwellings, the street house has promoted daily domestic activities and the identities of Vietnamese urban areas. However, such valuable aspects have received less attention in many recent urban developments in Vietnam. As such, the goal of this study is to identify and analyze the unparalleled ingenuity of the street house, particularly focusing on its spatial flexibility and environmental responsiveness. Furthermore, this study is intended to apply analytical investigations to the design of contemporary high-rise housing in Vietnam. With such purposes, this paper is structured in two sequences. In the first phase, typological characteristics of the street house are studied; a field survey is performed to address the evolutionary transformation of the street house. By studying several precedents in Vietnam, our study focused on understanding the ways in which spaces are manipulated and in which diverse indoor and outdoor spaces are created. In addition, passive environmental systems are studied, meaning systems that are integrated with the spaces in order to control the microclimatic conditions of the house. Next, the morphology of the forms and space components are carefully examined through the contemporary examples of street house models in Vietnam. Especially, the flexible nature of the street house, in terms of spatial composition and expansion, is identified. In the second phase, a transition from the street house to high-rise housing is explored based on the previous analytical studies; compositional logic for arranging internal and external spaces are outlined to generate typological unit plans of street houses. Out of diverse design possibilities, an exemplary high-rise building is proposed to address the notions of spatial flexibility and integrated passive systems that are found in the street house. Ultimately, the proposed design aims to enrich dwelling environments for new high-rise urban communities.

For Rudolph M. Schindler, the role of geometry was a driving force for the consistent and systematic quality underlying most of his works. It provides an order for the formal expressions that encompasses both composition and construction. Among others, the Packard House stands out the most in terms of its unique employment of triangular geometry. By fabricating a scaled model and reworking drawings, this article reveals the underlying geometry of spatial composition of the house. It also discusses that Schindler′s treatment of the grid is unique, in comparison to his contemporaries, for instance Frank Lloyd Wright.

The article examines the present state of household income in Korea on the basis of its income account, which reflects the structure of a country's economy. The income account provides an understanding of how economic revenue is divided among the institutional sectors accounting for production, spending and savings.

We aimed to simultaneously evaluate the association between metabolic syndrome and Helicobacter pylori(HP) infection diagnosed histologically and serologically in a large number of healthy Korean adults.

AbstractThe design of a standard housing unit and the consequences of multiplying the unit in some larger assembly involve a certain degree of organizing principles. The most prevalent organizing principles in housing design are modular idea and symmetry. Both are of utmost importance as vehicles to guide all the components in the housing and to organize its spatial layouts. Modular ideas have been promoted in an attempt to minimize building costs as well as to execute efficient and accurate construction. Symmetrical operations function as the organizational mechanism for housing design. The employment of various symmetries in housing design is manifold and they apply to housing organization as a whole. They also apply to a standard unit with its typological variations and the grouping of multiple units in a larger assemblage. This paper analyzes a series of Rudolph M. Schindler′s housing designs to illustrate the potential for the conscious application of the modular idea and symmetry in housing design as compositional methodologies.

Protein phosphatase 5 plays a pivotal role in signal transduction in animal and plant cells, and it was previously shown that Arabidopsis protein phosphatase 5 (AtPP5) performs multiple enzymatic activities that are mediated by conformational changes induced by heat shock stress. In addition, transgenic overexpression of AtPP5gene conferred enhanced heat shock resistance compared with wild-type plant. However, the molecular mechanism underlying this enhanced heat shock tolerance through functional and conformational changes upon heat stress is not clear. In this report, AtPP5 was shown to preferentially interact with its substrate, MDH, under heat stress conditions. In addition, in co-IP analysis, AtPP5 was observed to form a complex with AtHsp90 in Arabidopsis. These results suggest that AtPP5 may enhance thermotolerance via forming multi-chaperone complexes under heat shock conditions in Arabidopsis. Finally, we show that AtPP5 is primarily localized in the cytoplasm of Arabidopsis.

This paper focuses on the potential applications of eco-features in Vietnamese traditional folk houses to contemporary high-rise housing. One of the main characteristics of traditional folk houses is that they are designed with a deep understanding of and respect for nature. This type of housing also expresses the way of life of its users, having evolved over generations while adapting to their needs, culture, and environment. Whereas the traditional Vietnamese houses can be an important source in the creation of a Vietnamese architectural identity, the design-with-nature approach and its unique characteristics are, however, scarcely found in the contemporary high-rise housing in Vietnam. The objective of this research is to investigate the potential applications of eco-features in Vietnamese traditional folk houses to contemporary high-rise urban housing. Initially, this study examines the unique spatial characteristics of the traditional folk houses typical in northern Vietnam. In particular, four houses at the Duong Lam Village in northern Vietnam are reviewed. Some of the ecological design elements are extracted from the spatial composition of the typical Vietnamese folk houses in relation to the local climate conditions and the Vietnamese lifestyle (vernacular culture). Finally, this paper attempts to develop new housing models in urban Vietnam, employing the ecological elements learned from the preceding assessment.

AbstractThis paper presents a study on spatial construction in relation to chants and cathedrals in the medieval period. First, studies on musical space in relation to visual space are surveyed. The gestalt notions of figure and ground are then described. These are used as a basic tool for an analysis of how cathedral arches of the nave were assembled vertically with regard to musical sound. From a formal analysis it is found that the vertical spatial construction of chants and that of naves in medieval cathedrals display a similar pattern.