Search

Ball burnishing (BB) is a surface finishing process that involves moving the tool while pressing it against the workpiece under rolling contact. We investigated the effects of BB on the fatigue strength of an aluminum alloy with a semicircular slit simulating an initial surface defect. After performing BB under a typical condition, compressive residual stress was induced to a depth of 0.4 mm, with a reduction in surface roughness by 81%. Consequently, the fatigue strength increased by 22%. BB prevented the fatigue strength reduction caused by the 0.1 mm deep slit. The result indicated that BB could render the below 0.1 mm deep surface defect harmless in terms of fatigue strength. The maximum depth of surface defect that can be rendered harmless is 0.18 mm according to fracture mechanics, which is in agreement with the experimental results. Highlights: Ball burnishing (BB) can introduce large compressive residual stress along with smoothing.BB can render a 0.1 mm deep slit harmless in terms of fatigue strength.Defect size rendered harmless can be estimated based on fracture mechanics.Compressive residual stress is the main factor rendering the surface defect harmless. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to understand how people living with drug‐resistant focal epilepsy (DRE) navigate through lines of antiseizure medications (ASM) and experience adverse events (AEs) in the real‐world setting in the United States. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted with medical chart data from clinical practices in the United States. Eligible adults had a confirmed diagnosis of DRE and initiated a third‐line ASM therapy between January 2013 and January 2020 (i.e., the index date). Subjects must have medical history data available for ≥1 year prior to (the baseline) and ≥2 years after the index date (the follow‐up). Treatment patterns were captured from first to fourth lines. After the emergence of drug resistance, time to ASM discontinuation, reasons for discontinuation, AE experience and AE management were reported separately during third and fourth lines of treatment and beyond. Results: The study included a total of 345 individuals, with an average (standard deviation) age of 23.9 (11.9) years at first diagnosis. All individuals had at least three lines of ASMs with first and second lines during baseline, and third line during follow‐up. The first line for most individuals was monotherapy. As individuals progressed through additional lines of ASM therapy, they were more likely to receive polytherapy. The regimens were more individualized after meeting drug resistance criteria. The top reasons for discontinuing were uncontrolled seizure and/or intolerance/AEs for both third and subsequent lines. More than a third of individuals experienced at least one AE. Among those with at least one AE, many individuals had to manage these AEs with dose adjustment (39.4%), discontinuation of offending ASM (37.9%), de novo pharmacotherapy (25.8%), emergency room visit (13.6%), and hospitalization (12.1%). Significance: This study demonstrated that individuals living with DRE experience significant AEs, and many of these AEs lead to treatment disruption and significant healthcare resource utilization. Plain Language Summary: This study examined how individuals with focal epilepsy are treated across various clinics in United States and reported the adverse events these individuals experienced during treatment, along with the consequence associated with these adverse events. We found that as individuals progressed through additional treatments, they were more and more likely to receive more than one antiseizure medication, and a significant portion of individuals experienced at least one adverse event, often manifested as headache, somnolence, dizziness, and fatigue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic modulators of plant 14‐3‐3s are promising chemical tools both for understanding the 14‐3‐3‐related signaling pathways and controlling plant physiology. Herein, we describe a novel small‐molecule inhibitor for 14‐3‐3 proteins of Arabidopsis thaliana. The inhibitor was identified from unexpected products in a stock solution in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) of an in‐house chemical library. Mass spectroscopy, mutant‐based analyses, fluorescence polarization assays, and thermal shift assays revealed that the inhibitor covalently binds to an allosteric site of 14‐3‐3 with isoform selectivity. Moreover, infiltration of the inhibitor to Arabidopsis leaves suppressed the stomatal aperture. The inhibitor should provide new insight into the design of potent and isoform‐selective 14‐3‐3 modulators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: There are few reports on the safety of endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration (EUS‐FNA) in the elderly. In this study, we investigated the safety of EUS‐FNA for pancreatic solid masses in patients aged ≥80 years. Methods: This is a single‐center retrospective study. A total of 600 patients with pancreatic solid masses who underwent EUS‐FNA under midazolam‐based sedation at our institution between September 2016 and December 2022 were enrolled in this study. Eligible patients were divided into two groups: an elderly group aged ≥80 (n = 84), as well as a nonelderly group aged ≤79 (n = 516). These two groups were compared. Results: The elderly group required significantly fewer midazolam doses for sedation (P < 0.001). Adverse events occurred in eight patients (1.3%), including one (1.2%) and seven (1.4%) in the elderly and nonelderly groups, respectively (P = 0.90). There were no cases of early adverse events in the elderly group and six cases (1.2%) in the nonelderly group (P = 0.32). There was one case of late adverse events in both the elderly and nonelderly groups (P = 0.14), and both were needle tract seeding. There was no significant difference between the two groups in the proportion of cases in which percutaneous oxygen saturation decreased to ≤90% during the EUS‐FNA. Conclusions: Our analysis suggests that EUS‐FNA for pancreatic solid masses can be safely performed in patients aged >80 years without increasing the adverse event rate compared to nonelderly patients aged <80 years. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 836–841. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effects of interferential current electrical stimulation (IFCS) on masticatory and swallowing function. Materials and Methods: Twenty healthy young adults were enrolled. The measurement items were spontaneous swallowing frequency (SSF), voluntary swallowing frequency (VSF), saliva secretion volume (SSV), glucose elution volume (GEV), and velocity of chew (VOC). All participants underwent both IFCS and sham stimulation (without stimulation, sham). Two sets of independent IFCS electrodes were placed on the bilateral neck. The precise location of the upper electrodes was just below the angle of the mandible, while the lower electrodes were placed at the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. The intensity of IFCS was determined to be one level below the perceptual threshold that all participants felt discomfort. Statistical analysis was performed using a two‐way repeated measures analysis of variance. Results: For IFCS, the results of each measurement before and during stimulation were SSF: 1.16 and 1.46, VSF: 8.05 and 8.45, SSV: 5.33 and 5.56 g, GEV: 171.75 and 208.60 mg/dL, and VOC: 87.20 and 95.20, respectively. SSF, GEV, and VOC during stimulation were significantly increased by IFCS (SSF, p =.009; GEV, p =.048; and VOC, p =.007). Following sham stimulation, the results were SSF: 1.24 and 1.34, VSF: 7.75 and 7.90, SSV: 5.65 and 6.04 g, GEV: 176.45 and 187.35 mg/dL, and VOC: 91.35 and 88.25, respectively. Conclusion: While no significant differences were observed in the sham group, our findings suggest that IFCS of the superior laryngeal nerve may impact not only the swallowing function but also the masticatory function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forearc basin deposits on continental margins contain important information that can be used to reconstruct the tectonic setting, volcanism, and climate at the time of their deposition. Coal‐bearing terrestrial to shallow marine strata in Northeast Japan were deposited in a forearc basin along the Eurasian continental margin during the Cretaceous–Paleogene. The rocks exposed in the Kado district, Iwate Prefecture, in the northern Kitakami Mountains include the Upper Cretaceous Yokomichi Formation and the Paleogene Kogawa Group; the latter is known for high‐quality refractory clay (kaolin clay). However, their stratigraphy and sedimentological characteristics are not yet fully understood. To reconstruct the formation and filling of the basin, we investigated field observations, U–Pb dating of tuff samples, XRD analysis of tuff and mudstone samples, and vitrinite reflectance of coal samples in this sequence. The U–Pb ages of the Yokomichi Formation and the Kogawa Group are ∼86 Ma and 58–52 Ma, respectively. The U–Pb age of the kaolin‐dominated tuffaceous rock ("red rocks") is 56.1 ± 0.2 Ma. The mean random vitrinite reflectance (VRr) ranges from 0.37% to 0.53% through the sequence. We propose the following sequence for the formation and filling of the basin. (1) The basin initially formed during the Coniacian–Santonian (Late Cretaceous) and was filled by fluvial–lacustrine sediment. (2) These sediments kept the shallow burial depths during a ∼28 Myr and made a hiatus (86–58 Ma). (3) The basin was reactivated and covered by tuffs during the Thanetian, and the tuffs were altered to kaolin clay during the Paleocene–Eocene Thermal Maximum. (4) The basin was filled rapidly by alluvial fan deposits and subsided <2300 m (assuming a geothermal gradient of >30 K/km). (5) The basin was uplifted and exhumed at a rate of >50 m/Myr faster than the mean exhumation rate of the Kitakami Mountains since the Paleogene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Middle to Late Miocene organic‐rich siliceous mudstones (Onnagawa Formation) in the Akita Basin, Northeast Japan have been an important target for both paleoceanographic studies and hydrocarbon exploration in Japan. However, the reliable age of their formation has remained poorly constrained. Here, we report new zircon U–Pb and fission‐track ages of the Onnagawa Formation from a previously well‐studied outcrop route in the Yashima area, central Akita Basin. The thin tuff bed in the lower Onnagawa Formation was dated at around 11.6 Ma, whereas thin tuff beds in the upper Onnagawa Formation was dated at 10.4–9.6 Ma. The new age model constrains the base of the succession as older than 15.6–13.8 Ma and the top of the succession as 8.7–8.2 Ma. The results suggest that the lowest part of the succession was deposited before the Onnagawa Stage. The new age model indicates a rapid deposition in the lower Onnagawa Stage. The new age model also clarifies a temporary decrease in the sedimentation rate during 10.9–9.4 Ma, which coincided with a hiatus or slow deposition reported from other areas along the Sea of Japan coast. The new age model also revises the timing of paleoceanographic changes, of the best hydrocarbon source horizon, and of hydrothermal activity responsible for seafloor chemoautotrophic communities in the Akita Basin. This revised timing reveals that the onset of paleoceanographic changes from oxidizing to anoxic bottom environments favorable for hydrocarbon source rock formation was closely related to the tectonic uplift of the Northeast Japan Arc at ~12 Ma, whereas the timing of hydrothermal activity was related to the following extensional tectonics at ~9 Ma. The results of this study thus shed light on hitherto unclarified relationships between tectonics, volcanism, and paleoceanographic changes in the Sea of Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flavonoid 3ʹ‐hydroxylase (F3ʹH) catalyzes hydroxylation at the 3ʹ position of the B ring of flavonoids. F3ʹH is associated with the seed coat and pubescence color, antioxidant properties, and chilling stress tolerance of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. In this study, we found that soybean F3ʹH increases the calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) contents in pods and reduces the levels of these elements in seeds. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) analysis using a near‐isogenic line (NIL) derived from Japanese cultivars 'Natto‐shoryu' and 'Hyoukei‐kuro 3' for F3ʹH (Glyma.06g202300), also known as the T gene, indicated that the contents of Ca and Mg were higher in the pods but lower in the seed coats and cotyledons from soybean with active F3ʹH than from soybean with inactive F3ʹH. No such clear tendency was observed for other inorganic ions measured in this study. These data suggested that the transport of Ca and Mg from the pod to the seed was inhibited by flavonoid produced through F3ʹH activity. The hardness of cooked beans from soybean with active F3ʹH was lower than that from soybean with inactive F3ʹH, which was likely related to the increase in heat‐labile pectin caused by fewer cross‐linked divalent ions. These results were supported by ICP‐MS analysis and the hardness of cooked beans of other NILs for the T gene. Our findings demonstrate a novel and unexpected effect of flavonoids on the processing quality of soybean. Core Ideas: Soybean flavonoid 3ʹ‐hydroxylase (F3ʹH) reduces seed Ca and Mg contents.F3ʹH likely inhibits Ca and Mg transport from the pod to the seed.F3ʹH softens the cooked bean, partly due to the increase in heat‐labile pectin.Soybean F3ʹH affects seed quality, which is an unexpected effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common major depressive episode surrounding childbirth, with estimated rates ranging from 5.5% to 23.5% of all live births across Europe and the USA based on the presence of key symptoms. PPD has been associated with significant impairments in both maternal functioning and mother‐infant attachment, and these impairments can have lasting effects on the emotional and cognitive development of children. Although the precise pathophysiology of PPD is unknown, preclinical findings suggest that large fluctuations in neurosteroid hormone levels can induce physiological plasticity in the expression of functional GABAA receptors during pregnancy and the postpartum period, and that deficits in this plasticity may underpin a biological mechanism that contributes to the manifestation of depressive symptoms. Here, we review the controlled clinical trials to date that have assessed the efficacy of pharmacological treatments for PPD, including oestradiol, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, brexanolone (an iv formulation of allopregnanolone) and an investigational neuroactive steroid and GABAA positive allosteric modulator, zuranolone. Coupled with the GABAergic deficits implicated in major depressive disorder, these findings highlight not only the potential role of GABAA receptor plasticity in the pathophysiology of PPD, but also the novel therapeutic approach of using positive allosteric modulators targeting GABAergic transmission to treat women affected by PPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to investigate the association between serum uric acid (SUA) level and development of hypertension as well as the interaction effect of chronic kidney disease (CKD) on this relationship in the general Japanese population. We included 7895 participants aged ≥30 years from the ISSA‐CKD study, a population‐based retrospective cohort study that used annual health check‐up data of residents from Iki Island, Japan. After the exclusion of 1881 with l < 1‐year follow‐up, 2812 with hypertension at baseline, and 165 with missing information on SUA, a total of 3037 participants were enrolled in this analysis. Participants were divided into four groups according to the quartiles of SUA level at baseline, and multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratios for new‐onset hypertension were calculated. Stratified analyses were performed for each subgroup (defined by sex, age, alcohol intake, and CKD) to assess the interaction effects. During a mean follow‐up period of 4.4 years, 943 participants developed hypertension. The first quartile group was set as the reference group, and the multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) for new‐onset hypertension were 1.11 (0.90–1.36) in the second quartile, 1.25 (1.02–1.54) in the third quartile, and 1.35 (1.07–1.70) in the fourth quartile compared with those in the reference group (p =.007 for trend). The stratified analyses showed that the association between SUA and hypertension was significantly stronger in participants with CKD than in those without CKD (p =.035 for interaction). SUA level is an independent risk factor for new‐onset hypertension. This tendency was significantly stronger in participants with CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of shot peening (SP) on pre‐fatigue tested carburized steel was investigated. Plane‐bending fatigue tests were conducted on carburized CrMo steel that was pre‐fatigue tested and treated with SP. Fatigue cracks were induced by pre‐fatigue tests with a stress amplitude of σa = 1000 MPa, and the number of the pre‐fatigue test cycles was 2.0 × 104 (L5 test) and 4.0 × 104 (L15 test). We compared the fatigue lives of the fatigue‐damaged and smooth specimens without fatigue damage treated with the same SP. The fatigue life of the L5 tested specimens with SP was longer than that of the non‐fatigue damaged smooth specimens after SP. Therefore, the fatigue cracks introduced by the L5 test can be rendered harmless by SP. Furthermore, near‐surface material properties were evaluated and the mechanisms of rendering surface cracks harmless were investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, surface crack nondamaging technology has been developed to render harmless surface cracks that can reduce the fatigue limit of metals by 20–60%. This is due to the effects of compressive residual stress induced by shot peening. To improve the reliability of high‐strength steel equipment designed against fatigue limit using surface crack nondamaging technology, the following characteristics were determined: (1) the effects of surface crack aspect ratio on maximum harmless crack depth (ahlm) at high‐strength steel for three residual stress distributions; (2) the relationship between the maximum allowable crack depth (acrN) and ahlm assuming the value of safety factor; (3) the relationship between minimum detectable crack depth via nondestructive inspection (aNDI) and ahlm, assuming that nondestructive inspection could detect the crack with sufficient probability; and (4) the relationships between ahlm, aNDI, and acrN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: 25‐Hydroxylated vitamin D is the best marker for vitamin D (VD). Due to its low ionization efficiency, a Cookson‐type reagent, 1,2,4‐triazoline‐3,5‐dione (TAD), is used to improve the detection/quantification of VD metabolites by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). However, the high reactivity of TAD makes its solution stability low and inconvenient for practical use. We here describe the development of a novel caged Cookson‐type reagent, and we assess its performances in the quantitative and differential detection of four VD metabolites in serum using LC/MS/MS. Methods: Caged 4‐(4′‐dimethylaminophenyl)‐1,2,4‐triazoline‐3,5‐dione (DAPTAD) analogues were prepared from 4‐(4′‐dimethylaminophenyl)‐1,2,4‐triazolidine‐3,5‐dione. Their stability and reactivity were examined. The optimized caged DAPTAD (14‐(4‐(dimethylamino)phenyl)‐9‐phenyl‐9,10‐dihydro‐9,10‐[1,2]epitriazoloanthracene‐13,15‐dione, DAP‐PA) was used for LC/MS/MS analyses of VD metabolites. Results: The solution stability of DAP‐PA in ethyl acetate dramatically improved compared with that of the non‐caged one. We measured the thermal retro‐Diels‐Alder reaction enabling the release of DAPTAD and found that the derivatization reaction was temperature‐dependent. We also determined the detection limit and the lower limit of quantifications for four VD metabolites with DAPTAD derivatization. Conclusions: DAP‐PA was stable enough for mid‐ to long‐term storage in solution. This advantage shall contribute to the detection and quantification of VD in clinical laboratories, and as such to the broader use of clinical mass spectrometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of laser peening (LP) on the bending fatigue strength of the 7075‐T651 aluminum alloy were investigated. Accordingly, the defect tolerance of the aluminum alloy subjected to LP is discussed on the basis of fracture mechanics. The results indicate that a deeper compressive residual stress was induced by LP compared with the case of shot peening (SP). The fatigue strengths increased when both peening types were used. Semicircular slits with depths less than 0.4 and 0.1 mm were rendered harmless on the basis of the applications of LP and SP, respectively. The apparent threshold stress intensity factor range ΔKth,ap increased by approximately five and two times owing to LP and SP, respectively. The increase of the ΔKth,ap was caused by the compressive residual stress induced by the peening. The Kitagawa‐Takahashi diagram of the laser‐peened specimens shows that the defect tolerance of the aluminum alloy was improved by LP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinically, the stable sole‐ground contact in the diet is considered as important for achieving safe swallows in the dysphagic patients. However, the effects of varied sole‐ground contacts on swallow‐related muscles activities remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of sole‐ground contacts on the muscle activities during swallow for various materials; 26 healthy adult subjects participated in this study. Three different sole‐ground contact conditions were investigated; sole‐ground contact with knees bent to 90° (KB 90°), sole‐ground contact with knees bent to 135° (KB 135°), and sole‐ground off the floor (Off). Participants swallowed four bolus materials (saliva, 5‐ml water, 10‐ml water, and 5‐ml yogurt) in each sole‐ground contact condition. The muscular activities of the suprahyoid (SH) muscle and the sternocleidomastoid muscle during swallowing were detected and recorded using surface electromyography. The sole‐ground contact pressure was evaluated using the data acquisition system. Duration of SH during 10‐ml water swallow for Off was significantly longer than that for KB 90°. Duration of SH during 5‐ml yogurt swallow for Off was significantly longer than that for KB 90°. Integration of SH during 10‐ml water swallow for Off was significantly greater than that for KB 135°. Integration of SH during 5‐ml yogurt swallow for Off was significantly greater than that for KB 90°. No significant differences were found in peak of SH. Sole‐ground contact conditions had significant effect on swallow‐related muscles activities. The stable sitting positions might be more advantageous for performing effective swallows compared with less stable sitting positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents Summary 417 I. Introduction 417 II. Auxin analogs 1: Plant growth regulators 418 III. Auxin analogs 2: Molecular genetics and chemical biology 418 IV. Auxin analogs 3: Structure‐guided chemical design 418 V. Auxin analogs 4: Synthetic orthogonal auxin‐TIR1 pair 420 VI. Conclusions and future perspectives 422 Acknowledgements 422 References 423 Summary: Plant biologists have been fascinated by auxin – a small chemical hormone so simple in structure yet so powerful – which regulates virtually every aspect of plant growth, development and behavior. Synthetic chemistry has played a major role in unraveling the physiological effects of auxin and the application of synthetic analogs has had a dramatic effect on tissue culture, horticulture and the agriculture of economically relevant plant species. Chemical genetics of the model plant, Arabidopsis thaliana, has helped to elucidate the nuclear auxin signaling pathway mediated by the receptor, TIR1, and opened the door to structure‐guided, rational designs of auxin agonists and antagonists. Further improvement and tuning of such analogs has been achieved through derivatization and screening. Finally, by harnessing synthetic chemistry and receptor engineering, an orthogonal auxin‐TIR1 pair has been created and developed, enabling spatiotemporal control of auxin perception and response. This synergism of chemistry, biology and engineering sparks new ideas and directions to delineate, uncover and manipulate auxin signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Little is known about the factors that contribute to the occurrence of adverse events in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for people aged ≥85 years and safety for the super‐old. Therefore, we decided to identify these factors and to examine whether ERCP is safe in the super‐old. Methods: This was a single‐center retrospective study. A total of 137 patients aged ≥85 years who underwent therapeutic ERCP at Chiba University Hospital from January 2012 to March 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Results: Four cases of Billroth II reconstruction and two cases of gastrectomy with Roux‐en‐Y reconstruction were excluded, and 131cases in total were examined in the present study. A total of 10 and 121 cases with and without adverse events, respectively, were present. Using univariate analysis, factors significantly contributing to the occurrence of adverse events in therapeutic ERCP were identified as aged ≥90 years (P = 0.0096), duodenal papilla cancer (P = 0.0012), gallbladder carcinoma (P = 0.023), and biliary metal stenting (P = 0.040). In multivariate analysis, only ≥90 years‐of‐age was a significant factor (P = 0.049). In addition, comparison between 25 cases of the super‐old and 106 cases aged 85–89 years was carried out. In the super‐old group, the average value of the American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification and Charlson’s Comorbidity Index were significantly better than those in 85–89‐year‐olds (P = 0.0035 and P < 0.0001, respectively). Conclusions: Although the super‐old group had fewer comorbid diseases, they had significantly increased adverse events compared with patients aged 85–89 years. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1038–1045. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endometrial clear‐cell carcinoma (ECC) is relatively rare. The expression of diagnostic markers in this disease is similar to that of clear‐cell carcinoma, but the molecular carcinogenic events and therapeutic targets are mostly unknown. MET gene amplification has been reported in various cancers, including ovarian clear‐cell carcinomas; however, the MET gene status has not previously been examined in ECC. We performed real‐time quantitative PCR (QPCR) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to analyze the MET gene statuses of 12 ECC cases. We found MET amplifications in two cases (2/12; 16.7%) by both methods. Of the 12 cases, 9 were pure clear‐cell carcinomas, and 3 were mixed types that included mixes with endometrioid carcinomas in 2 cases, and the remaining case was a heterologous‐type carcinosarcoma that primarily consisted of a clear‐cell carcinoma component and a scarce chondrosarcoma component. Both of the MET amplification cases were mixed; one contained endometrioid features, and the other chondrosarcoma features. This is the first report to analyze the statuses of the MET gene in ECCs, and the two mixed cases exhibited amplifications that are shared with ovarian clear‐cell carcinomas. Further studies with larger numbers of cases are necessary to reveal the relationship between ECC and MET amplification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The vinorelbine (VRB) plus cisplatin regimen is widely used to treat non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but its cure rate is poor. Drug resistance is the primary driver of chemotherapeutic failure, and the causes of resistance remain unclear. By focusing on the focal adhesion (FA) pathway, we have highlighted a signaling pathway that promotes VRB resistance in lung cancer cells. First, we established VRB‐resistant (VR) lung cancer cells (NCI‐H1299 and A549) and examined its transcriptional changes, protein expressions, and activations. We treated VR cells by Src Family Kinase (SFK) inhibitors or gene silencing and examined cell viabilities. ATP‐binding Cassette Sub‐family B Member 1 (ABCB1) was highly expressed in VR cells. A pathway analysis and western blot analysis revealed the high expression of integrins β1 and β3 and the activation of FA pathway components, including Src family kinase (SFK) and AKT, in VR cells. SFK involvement in VRB resistance was confirmed by the recovery of VRB sensitivity in FYN knockdown A549 VR cells. Saracatinib, a dual inhibitor of SFK and ABCB1, had a synergistic effect with VRB in VR cells. In conclusion, ABCB1 is the primary cause of VRB resistance. Additionally, the FA pathway, particularly integrin, and SFK, are promising targets for VRB‐resistant lung cancer. Further studies are needed to identify clinically applicable target drugs and biomarkers that will improve disease prognoses and predict therapeutic efficacies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Several studies have investigated the accuracy of cervical auscultation (CA). However, both the sensitivities and the specificities of CA in detecting dysphagic conditions varied widely among these studies. These wide variations of the accuracy of CA might be caused by differences of the targeted sounds, such as the expiratory sound (ES) and/or swallowing sound (SS). Forty‐six dysphagic patients were served as subjects. Patients who had unoccluded tracheostoma and patients who could not follow the instructions were excluded. During the videofluorographic swallowing study (VFSS), the subjects swallowed 3 ml of yogurt containing barium sulfate. The VFSS images were recorded with acoustic signals including both the swallowing and respiratory sounds detected by our method. Classification of the VFSS images was decided by consensus of the three dentists using a penetration‐aspiration scale (PAS). Recorded VFSS images were classified into the following 2 groups based on PAS: “no or minimum risk group”: PAS1–2; and “possible risk group”: PAS3–8. As a result of the classification of VFSS findings, 30 samples were evaluated as no or minimum risk group and 16 as possible risk group. Twelve observers including 10 dentists other than 3 dentists who evaluated VFSS images and 2 speech pathologists auditorily diagnosed “negative” and “positive.” Sensitivity, specificity, and intra‐rater reliability was calculated for the 3 types of acoustic samples. The sensitivity of the intra‐rater reliability was 60.3% for ES, 76.6% for SS, and 89.9% for ES + SS. The sensitivity of intra‐rater reliability of ES + SS samples was significantly higher than that of ES (p < .01) and SS (p < .05). The sensitivity of intra‐rater reliability of SS was significantly higher than that of ES (p < .01). The specificity of the intra‐rater reliability was 53.7% for ES, 50.3% for SS, and 44.5% for ES + SS. ES + SS might be most useful for detecting the presence of material in the airway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed coat cracking after soaking (SCAS) and after cooking (SCAC) are unfavorable traits associated with soybeans for food uses, such as cooked and seasoned beans (nimame) and fermented steamed beans (natto) because they cause an inferior appearance of the products and clogging of the production lines. The variation and causes of SCAS and SCAC among cultivars have not yet been clarified, but if they are determined genetically, genetic modification could be possible. Cultivars showed considerable variations in SCAS and SCAC. Significantly positive seasonal correlations of SCAS (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient, ρ = 0.518) and of SCAC (ρ = 0.681) were observed among recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from the cross between cultivars Nattoshoryu and Hyokeikuro 3. Quantitative bait locus (QTL) analyses and statistical analyses using generalized linear models showed that QTLs for SCAS (qSCASl, qSCAS2, and qSCAS3) and SCAC (qSCACl and qSCAC2) were located on chromosomes 4 (linkage group [LG]: Cl), 6 (LG: C2), and 8 (LG: A2) of the RILs. Interactions between QTLs were also observed. SCAS and SCAC are traits controlled by QTLs, which could provide significant insight into their causes and mechanisms. These undesirable characteristics could be improved through breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung cancer treatment is difficult owing to chemoresistance. Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 ( HIF-1) and HIF-1-induced glycolysis are correlated with chemoresistance; however, this is not evident in lung cancer. We investigated the effect of HIF-1 α and carbonic anhydrase IX ( CAIX), a transmembrane protein neutralizing intracellular acidosis, on chemoresistance and prognosis of lung cancer patients after induction chemoradiotherapy. Associations of HIF-1 α, glucose transporter 1 ( GLUT1), and CAIX with chemoresistance of lung cancer were investigated using A549 lung cancer cells under normoxia or hypoxia in vitro. HIF-1 α-induced reprogramming of glucose metabolic pathway in A549 cells and the effects of HIF-1 and CAIX on the cytotoxicity of vinorelbine were investigated. Immunohistochemical analyses were performed to determine HIF-1 α, GLUT1, and CAIX expression levels in cancer specimens from lung cancer patients after induction chemoradiotherapy. Hypoxia induced HIF-1 α expression in A549 cells. Moreover, hypoxia induced GLUT1 and CAIX expression in A549 cells in a HIF-1-dependent manner. Glucose metabolic pathway was shifted from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis by inducing HIF-1 α in A549 cells. HIF-1 and CAIX induced chemoresistance under hypoxia, and their inhibition restored the chemosensitivity of A549 cells. The expression levels of HIF-1 α, GLUT1, and CAIX were associated with poor overall survival of lung cancer patients after induction chemoradiotherapy. HIF-1 and CAIX affected the chemosensitivity of A549 cells and prognosis of lung cancer patients. Therefore, inhibition of HIF-1 and CAIX might improve prognosis of lung cancer patients after induction chemoradiotherapy. Further analysis might be helpful in developing therapies for lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Individual-level variables such as gender, education, occupation, and employment type are well-known factors that induce wage gaps in the labor market. This article aims to divide wage gaps into two components-those arising within each firm (the intra-firm wage gap) and those arising between different firms (the inter-firm wage gap)-and measure their respective proportions by individual-level variables, as studies suggest that each wage gap based on an individual-level variable has a unique mix of an intra-firm and inter-firm wage gap. This measurement can help enrich investigation into the generative process of wage gaps and formulate effective labor policies to reduce them. Accordingly, we compared the coefficients of the independent variables of the wage function estimated by a pooled ordinary least squares model and a fixed-effect model, using nationwide employer-employee matching data collected by the Japanese government. We found that wage gaps by gender and employment type mostly consist of intra-firm wage gaps, and those by education and occupation have a larger share of inter-firm wage gaps. The findings suggest that different research strategies are required to investigate the generative process of each wage gap, and that regulations on and interventions in organizational processes are important to reduce wage gaps based on gender and employment type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three kinds of impeller combinations (3 × 4WHd, HB + 2 × 4WHd, 2 × HB + 4WHd) were used to investigate the effects of coil baffles on system power consumption, gas holdup, and mass transfer coefficient. The experiments were performed in a dish-bottomed vessel with a diameter of 0.29 m. Results of the power consumption experiments show that at the same rotation speed and an increasing rate of gas flow, the power consumptions of 3 × 4WHd and 2 × HB + 4WHd with coil baffles are almost the same as that of a system with four planar baffles, but there is a clear power draw for the HB + 2 × 4WHd combination. At rotational speeds of 250-350 rpm, the largest power draws for the 2 × HB + 4WHd, HB + 2 × 4WHd, and 3 × 4WHd impeller combinations equipped with coil baffles are 27, 25, and 15 %, respectively. The gas holdup experiment shows that with installation of coil baffles in the vessel, axial and radial impeller combinations can achieve gas dispersion identical to that attained with planar baffles. At the same power input and superficial gas rate over a wide range of gas velocities, the kLa values of the coil baffles for the 3 × 4WHd and 2 × HB + 4WHd combinations are almost identical to those of a conventional system with four baffles. However, in the HB + 2 × 4WHd system, kLa values of the coil baffles are 15 % higher than for planar baffles at low gas velocities and 30 % higher at high superficial gas rates. Finally, all data from the experiments on gas holdup and kLa values may be correlated through the equations [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A 65‐year‐old man was referred to our hospital for abdominal pain. He had a history of enterotomy with stone extraction for gallstone ileus. On abdominal computed tomography, a stone measuring 32 × 28 mm lodged in the jejunum was identified. He was diagnosed with gallstone ileus and treated using a nasal ileus tube. Four days after admission, computed tomography showed that the stone had passed into the rectum. The gallstone was spontaneously evacuated on the same day. A fistula with the gallbladder was found in the duodenal bulb. The patient's condition improved, and he was discharged 9 days after admission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optogenetics is a novel technology that combines optics and genetics by optical control of microbial opsins, targeted to living cell membranes. The versatility and the electrophysiologic characteristics of the light-sensitive ion-channels channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2), halorhodopsin (Np HR), and the light-sensitive proton pump archaerhodopsin-3 (Arch) make these optogenetic tools potent candidates in controlling neuronal firing in models of epilepsy and in providing insights into the physiology and pathology of neuronal network organization and synchronization. Opsins allow selective activation of excitatory neurons and inhibitory interneurons, or subclasses of interneurons, to study their activity patterns in distinct brain-states in vivo and to dissect their role in generation of synchrony and seizures. The influence of gliotransmission on epileptic network function is another topic of great interest that can be further explored by using light-activated Gq protein-coupled opsins for selective activation of astrocytes. The ever-growing optogenetic toolbox can also be combined with emerging techniques that have greatly expanded our ability to record specific subtypes of cortical and hippocampal neurons in awake behaving animals such as juxtacellular recording and two-photon guided whole-cell recording, to identify the specific subtypes of neurons that are altered in epileptic networks. Finally, optogenetic tools allow rapid and reversible suppression of epileptic electroencephalography ( EEG) activity upon photoactivation. This review outlines the most recent advances achieved with optogenetic techniques in the field of epilepsy by summarizing the presentations contributed to the 13th ILAE WONOEP meeting held in the Laurentian Mountains, Quebec, in June 2013. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we aim to solve the problem of resource-constrained project scheduling with multiple modes (rc-PSP/mM), in which multiple execution modes are available for each of the project's activity and with minimization of makespan as objective. We present a new genetic algorithm approach in order to solve this problem. In this procedure, we propose a new mutation operator that exploits a critical path and two new local search procedures, i.e. critical path improvement local search ( cpiLS) and iterative forward/backward local search ( ifbLS), using activity list characteristics. The cpiLS reduces the critical path and the ifbLS improves resource allocation of the schedule of rc-PSP/mM. Also, to evaluate the proposed approach, we compare the results of the computational experiment on certain standard project instances with the several competing heuristic procedures presented in the literature, and it has been revealed that our procedure is one of the most competitive among the algorithms. © 2014 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Prenatal exposure to dioxins may result in many adverse health effects. However, the mechanisms by which dioxins are transferred from mother to fetus through the placenta are not well understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the differences in dioxin concentrations between maternal blood, the placenta, and cord blood in normal pregnant women, and to identify which individual congeners of these compounds are transferred from mother to fetus through the placenta. Material and Methods: Samples were collected from 19 pregnant Japanese women. Specific congeners of seven polychlorinated dibenzo- p-dioxins (PCDDs), 10 polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and four non- ortho polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were analyzed. Results: The TEQ concentrations of PCDDs, PCDFs, and non- ortho PCBs were 8.03, 3.39, and 3.95 pg TEQ/g lipid, respectively, in the maternal blood; 8.78, 3.61, and 0.87 pg TEQ/g lipid in the placenta; and 4.33, 1.25, 1.08 pg TEQ/g lipid in the cord blood. Among specific congeners, 1,2,3,7,8-PentaCDD and 2,3,4,7,8-PentaCDF exhibited a placenta to maternal blood ratio greater than 1.0, while OctaCDD exhibited the greatest cord blood to placenta ratio. The cord blood to maternal blood ratio of total PCDDs was significantly higher than that of total PCDFs and total non- ortho PCBs. Conclusion: The dioxin concentration in cord blood was approximately half of the amount in maternal blood, despite congeners showing a high toxic equivalency factor accumulating in the placenta. PCDDs were transferred more readily than PCDFs and non- ortho PCBs from maternal blood to the fetus through the placenta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How are Asian financial markets interlinked and how are they linked to markets in developed countries? What is the main driver of fluctuations in Asian financial markets as well as real economic activity? To answer these questions, we estimate the spillover index proposed by Diebold and Yilmaz and gauge the degree of interaction in both financial markets and real economic activity among Asian economies. We first show that the degree of the international spillover in stock markets is uniform, irrespective of the groups of countries concerned, such as the G3 and ASEAN4. This suggests the importance of global common shocks in stock markets. We then discuss the macro-finance dissonance. In stock and bond markets, the United States has been the main driver of fluctuations. However, China has emerged as an important source of fluctuations in real economic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Although social support has been recognized as an important factor in the quality of life of head and neck cancer patients, there has been little investigation of the buffering effect of social support on these patients' social distress or of the coping skill of self-efficacy. The aim of this study was to examine how social support and self-efficacy mediate the relationship between social distress and emotional distress in head and neck cancer patients. Methods: Two hundred twenty-five head and neck cancer patients completed our questionnaire (effective response rate, 92.2%). Of these, 129 (57.3%) had facial disfigurement. These participants responded to questions about perception of social distress, social support, self-efficacy, and emotional distress (depression and anxiety). We used structural equation modeling for statistical analysis. Results: The fit indices of this model were excellent ( χ2 (7) = 9.147, p = 0.242, goodness of fit index (GFI) = 0.981, adjusted goodness of fit index (AGFI) = 0.922, comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.993, root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.049). Self-efficacy strongly buffered the negative influence of social distress on emotional distress. Social support from family members did not have a direct or indirect influence on emotional distress. Social support from friends was related to lower social distress and higher emotional distress. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that self-efficacy might confound the relationship between social support and emotional distress, and that different sources of social support might play different roles in the mediation of social distress on emotional distress. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electron-beam-induced deposition (EBID) is a simple and versatile technique of processing materials for three-dimensional nanoscale structures. A variety of precursor molecules can be used to build a localized solid deposition by the exposure of a substrate to an electron beam. This paper reports nano carbon deposition using solid n-tetracosane as a precursor, because this paraffin-based EBID can be introduced into existing scanning electron microscope (SEM) systems without difficulty. The paraffin is prepared on an aluminum film and operated by a manipulator in the SEM. The effects of the accelerating voltage, beam current, magnification, distance from the paraffin to the exposure point, the amount of paraffin, and the working distance are measured and discussed. It is found that the electron-beam-induced etching and the beam diameter are sometimes the dominant factors influencing the deposition rate, and that the thickness of the paraffin also affects the deposition distribution. Electron-beam bending, which is a critical factor causing degradation of nanofabrication, is treated carefully in order to understand the declination of carbon pillars. The obtained carbon pillar configurations suggest that electrically charged paraffin produced during preliminary irradiation of the electron beam causes a Coulomb force and results in the movement effect of deposition. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(5): 39-46, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10192 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe the clinical, pathological, and imaging findings of mediastinal tumors with focus on thymic hyperplasia, thymic epithelial tumors, and germ cell tumors, malignant lymphoma, and various cystic masses. Chemical shift magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is useful in characterization of the normal thymus and differentiation of hyperplastic thymus and thymic tumors. In contrast to noninvasive thymomas, invasive thymomas and thymic carcinomas show a more aggressive growth pattern. Local invasion and pleural spread are characteristic of invasive thymoma and mediastinal lymphadenopathy and distant metastasis suggest thymic carcinomas. Mature teratoma typically shows various computed tomography (CT) attenuation, and MR signal intensity depending on its contents and fat tissue and bone within the lesions are its characteristic findings. Seminomas typically have homogenous internal CT attenuation and MR signal intensity with minimal contrast enhancement. Nonseminomatous malignant germ cell tumors characteristically show prominent internal degenerative changes and invasion to the adjacent structures. In mediastinal lymphomas, a residual mass is common after treatment and MRI provides important information in distinguishing viable tumors from residual benign masses. Some mediastinal cysts may reveal high attenuation similar to solid lesions on CT depending on their contents and MRI can be useful in the differentiation of cystic masses from solid lesions. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010;32:1325-1339. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium (Cd) is a pollutant heavy metal that is naturally present in soils and highly toxic to biological organism even at low concentrations. Significant differences were observed among soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrj cultivars in the uptake of Cd by root and its posterior translocation to the shoot and grain. The aim of this research was to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for seed Cd concentration in soybean. A single population derived from a cross between the cultivars Harosoy and Fukuyutaka, which differ in seed Cd levels, were used for QTL analysis. The population consisted of 93 F5.6 recombinant inbred lines (RILs), 93 F6.7 RILs, 93 F7:8 AILs, and 100 F6:7 near-isogenic lines (NILs). A total of 220 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were genetically mapped on the 93 F5:6 RILs population and clustered into 22 molecular linkage groups (MLGs) which covered a genetic distance of approximately 2400 centimorgans (cM). Analysis revealed one major QTL (cdl) on Chromosome 9 (MLG K) associated with seed Cd concentration. The cdl was stable across yearsgenerations and accounted for 82, 57, and 75% of the genetic variation in the AILs populations tested in the field. Effect of cdl was verified by means of a NIL population developed from the F5:6 RILs. The followup survey results indicated that the novel SSR markers Gm09: 4770663 and Gm09: 4790483 assigned to MLG K seemed to be suitable markers for selecting genotypes with low seed Cd concentration in soybean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-crack-healing behavior under a combustion gas atmosphere with a low oxygen partial pressure, , is important for actualizing ceramic gas turbines, but to date only self-crack-healing behavior in air has been investigated. In this study, we investigated crack-healing behaviors at 1273–1773 K under several levels of . Crack-healing in atmospheres with gave rise to the complete strength recovery of cracked specimens, resulting from passive oxidation. Based on the obtained results, the kinetics for strength recovery by self-crack-healing was expressed as a function of healing temperature, TH (K), and (Pa). The strength recovery rate for complete crack-healing, vH (s−1), could be expressed as Using this rate equation, one can evaluate the healing time for complete strength recovery under combustion gas in a gas turbine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crack-healing behavior of machining cracks in a Si3N4/SiC composite containing Y2O3 and Al2O3 as a sintering additive was investigated. The machining cracks were introduced by a wheel grinding process, which is the most common method for finishing ceramic components. A semicircular groove was made at the center of small bending specimens by the machining. The machined specimens were healed at various temperatures and times in air. The optimized crack-healing condition of the machined specimen was found to be a temperature of 1300°C and a time of 1 h. The specimens healed by this condition exhibited almost the same strength as the smooth specimens that underwent the healing process. Moreover, the bending strength and fatigue limit of the machined and healed specimens were systematically investigated at temperatures ranging from room temperature to 1300°C. The heat-resistance temperature has been determined to be approximately 1000°C. Also, the specimens exhibited high static and cyclic fatigue limits at temperatures of 800° and 1000°C. These results demonstrate that crack healing could be an effective method for improving the structural integrity and reducing the manufacturing costs of a Si3N4/SiC composite ceramic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a research on the use of sintered mullite containing 15 volume % SiC for machining cracks. The study investigated the crack-healing effects on cracks caused by machining using the SiC composite. A list of materials used is offered including the experimental procedure and discussion points.

To screen candidate molecules that might be useful as diagnostic biomarkers or for development of novel molecular-targeting therapies, we previously carried out gene-expression profile analysis of 101 lung carcinomas and detected an elevated expression of FGFR1OP (fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 oncogene partner) in the majority of lung cancers. Immunohistochemical staining using tumor tissue microarrays consisting of 372 archived non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) specimens revealed positive staining of FGFR1OP in 334 (89.8%) of 372 NSCLCs. We also found that the high level of FGFR1OP expression was significantly associated with shorter tumor-specific survival times ( P < 0.0001 by log-rank test). Moreover, multivariate analysis determined that FGFR1OP was an independent prognostic factor for surgically treated NSCLC patients ( P < 0.0001). Treatment of lung cancer cells, in which endogenous FGFR1OP was overexpressed, using FGFR1OP siRNA, suppressed its expression and resulted in inhibition of the cell growth. Furthermore, induction of FGFR1OP increased the cellular motility and growth-promoting activity of mammalian cells. To investigate its function, we searched for FGFR1OP-interacting proteins in lung cancer cells and identified ABL1 (Abelson murine leukemia viral oncogene homolog 1) and WRNIP1 (Werner helicase interacting protein 1), which was known to be involved in cell cycle progression. FGFR1OP significantly reduced ABL1-dependent phosphorylation of WRNIP1 and resulted in the promotion of cell cycle progression. Because our data imply that FGFR1OP is likely to play a significant role in lung cancer growth and progression, FGFR1OP should be useful as a prognostic biomarker and probably as a therapeutic target for lung cancer. ( Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1902–1913) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experiments on microwave plasma generation and its application to microwave beamed energy propulsion were conducted using a 1-MW-class, 170-GHz gyrotron. The microwave beam was focused using a parabola reflector and plasma was initiated near the focal point in the ambient air. Plasma propagated upstream in the microwave beam channel while absorbing microwaves. Its propagation velocity was supersonic when the microwave power density was greater than 75 kW/cm2. The propulsive impulse was measured using a cone-cylinder-shaped thruster model. As a result, the maximum momentum coupling coefficient was obtained at a certain plasma propagation distance. In addition, a larger momentum coupling coefficient was obtained when plasma was propagated at a supersonic velocity. This is because supersonic plasma propagation forms a strong shock wave, resulting in an efficient pressure increase. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 161(2): 1– 7, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20573 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) films containing photochromic spiropyran (SP) derivatives with an alkyl chain produced surface relief structures upon photoirradiation. The material moved from the dark to the irradiated part by the light longer than 350 nm from a high-pressure mercury lamp. This is the first example that the surface relief structures are formed on a polymer film containing a photochromic compound that is not an azobenzene-related compound. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mullite/SiC whisker/SiC particle multi-composite, having excellent crack-healing ability and mechanical properties, was hot pressed in order to investigate the crack-healing behavior under stress and the resultant fatigue strength at the temperature of healing. A semi-elliptical surface crack 100 μm in surface length was introduced on each specimen. The pre-cracked specimens were crack healed under cyclic or constant stress by using a three-point bending stress at 1473 K, and the resultant bending strength and cyclic fatigue strength were measured at 1473 K. The pre-crack on the surface of the specimens could be healed even under stress. The threshold stresses for crack healing, as determined by evaluating the strengths of crack-healed specimens at a healing temperature of 1473 K, were 170 MPa for both constant and cyclic stresses, corresponding to 77% of the bending strength of the pre-cracked specimens. The static and cyclic fatigue behaviors of crack-healed specimens were also investigated at a healing temperature of 1473 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs) of the pleura are rare soft-tissue tumors that are presumed to be of mesenchymal origin. Most SFTs are histologically benign, but up to 20% of SFTs may be malignant. In addition, malignant transformation may occur within histologically benign SFTs, though it is rare. However, it is difficult to diagnose malignant SFTs of the pleura by means of conventional computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In this article we present the first case of malignant SFT of the pleura in an 81-year-old man in which the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value and ADC map based on diffusion-weighted MRI were very useful for identifying malignant transformation. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007;26:155-158. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which investigated the strength recovery of aluminum oxide/silicon carbide specimen with a semicircular groove by crack-healing for improving the structural integrity of machined alumina and reducing machining costs. The study proposed using the crack-healing method to guarantee the reliability of ceramic components before service. It was concluded that if a material can heal a crack during service, and if the healed zone has enough strength at the temperature of healing, it would be very desirable for structural integrity.

The article presents a study on the improvement in the self-crack-healing ability of alumina containing nanometer-sized silicon carbide (SiC) particles composite fabricated by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis. The study found that the limit temperature for the bending strength of the alumina composite is equal to that of the alumina containing commercial SiC particles composite. It was concluded that the alumina/nanometer-sized SiC particle composite can be applied to structural components with self-crack-healing from 1223 kelvin to 1573 K.

The article presents a study on the effect of crack healing in machined alumina. Alumina containing 20% by volume SiC whiskers was subjected to several heat treatments to heal machining cracks. By heating the alumina to 1673 kelvin for 10 hours, testing revealed that the specimen fractured in places other than those heat-treated.