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The Michaelis-Menten (MM) rate law has been a fundamental tool in describing enzyme-catalyzed reactions for over a century. When substrates and enzymes are homogeneously distributed, the validity of the MM rate law can be easily assessed based on relative concentrations: the substrate is in large excess over the enzyme-substrate complex. However, the applicability of this conventional criterion remains unclear when species exhibit spatial heterogeneity, a prevailing scenario in biological systems. Here, we explore the MM rate law's applicability under spatial heterogeneity by using partial differential equations. In this study, molecules diffuse very slowly, allowing them to locally reach quasi-steady states. We find that the conventional criterion for the validity of the MM rate law cannot be readily extended to heterogeneous environments solely through spatial averages of molecular concentrations. That is, even when the conventional criterion for the spatial averages is satisfied, the MM rate law fails to capture the enzyme catalytic rate under spatial heterogeneity. In contrast, a slightly modified form of the MM rate law, based on the total quasi-steady state approximation (tQSSA), is accurate. Specifically, the tQSSA-based modified form, but not the original MM rate law, accurately predicts the drug clearance via cytochrome P450 enzymes and the ultrasensitive phosphorylation in heterogeneous environments. Our findings shed light on how to simplify spatiotemporal models for enzyme-catalyzed reactions in the right context, ensuring accurate conclusions and avoiding misinterpretations in in silico simulations.

Abstract The present study used microdissection, histology, and microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) with the aims of determining the prevalence and patterns of the depressor septi nasi (DSN) and orbicularis oris (OOr) muscles attached to the footplate of the medial crus (fMC) of the major alar cartilage, focusing on their crossing fibers. The DSN and OOr attached to the fMC of the major alar cartilage were investigated in 76 samples from 38 embalmed Korean adult cadavers (20 males, 18 females; mean age 70 years). The DSN, OOr, or both were attached to the fMC. When the DSN ran unilaterally or was absent, some OOr fibers ascended to attach to the fMC instead of the DSN in 20.6% of the samples. Crossing fibers of the DSN or OOr attached to the fMC were found in 82.4% of the samples. Bilateral and unilateral crossing fibers were found in 32.4% and 50.0%, respectively, and no crossing fibers were found in 17.6%. The DSN and OOr that attached to the fMC could be categorized into six types according to presence of the DSN and the crossing patterns of the DSN and OOr. Anatomical findings of the DSN and OOr that attached to the fMC were confirmed in histology and micro-CT images. These findings offer insights on anatomical mechanisms that may underlie the dynamic pulling forces generated by muscles that attach to the fMCs and on evolutionary variation observed in human facial expressions. They can also provide useful information for guiding rhinoplasty of the nasal tip.

Summary: All proteins are translated in the cytoplasm, yet many, including transcription factors, play vital roles in the nucleus. While previous research has concentrated on molecular motors for the transport of these proteins to the nucleus, recent observations reveal perinuclear accumulation even in the absence of an energy source, hinting at alternative mechanisms. Here, we propose that structural properties of the cellular environment, specifically the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), can promote molecular transport to the perinucleus without requiring additional energy expenditure. Specifically, physical interaction between proteins and the ER impedes their diffusion and leads to their accumulation near the nucleus. This result explains why larger proteins, more frequently interacting with the ER membrane, tend to accumulate at the perinucleus. Interestingly, such diffusion in a heterogeneous environment follows Chapman’s law rather than the popular Fick’s law. Our findings suggest a novel protein transport mechanism arising solely from characteristics of the intracellular environment.

Summary: The circadian (∼24h) clock is based on a negative-feedback loop centered around the PERIOD protein (PER), translated in the cytoplasm and then enters the nucleus to repress its own transcription at the right time of day. Such precise nucleus entry is mysterious because thousands of PER molecules transit through crowded cytoplasm and arrive at the perinucleus across several hours. To understand this, we developed a mathematical model describing the complex spatiotemporal dynamics of PER as a single random time delay. We find that the spatially coordinated bistable phosphoswitch of PER, which triggers the phosphorylation of accumulated PER at the perinucleus, leads to the synchronous and precise nuclear entry of PER. This leads to robust circadian rhythms even when PER arrival times are heterogeneous and perturbed due to changes in cell crowdedness, cell size, and transcriptional activator levels. This shows how the circadian clock compensates for spatiotemporal noise.

Abstract This study was conducted to determine the muscular arrangement of the human pyloric sphincter using a comprehensive approach that involved microdissection, histology, and microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT). The stomachs of 80 embalmed Korean adult cadavers were obtained. In all specimens, loose muscular tissue of the innermost aspect of the sphincter wall ran aborally, forming the newly found inner longitudinal muscle bundles, entered the duodenum, and connected with the nearby circular bundles. In all specimens, approximately one-third of the outer longitudinal layer of the sphincter entered its inner circular layer, divided the circular layer into several parts, and finally connected with the circular bundles. Anatomical findings around the sphincter were confirmed in micro-CT images. The sphincter wall comprised three layers: an inner layer of longitudinal bundles, a middle layer of major circular and minor longitudinal bundles, and an outer layer of longitudinal bundles. The stomach outer longitudinal bundles were connected to the sphincter circular bundles. The inner longitudinal bundles of the sphincter were connected to the adjacent circular bundles of the duodenum.

The aim of this study was to determine how the depressor supercilii (DS) connects to the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi (LLSAN) and inferior fibers of the orbicularis oculi (OOc INF) in the human midface. While grimacing, contraction of the DS with fibers connecting to the LLSAN and OOc INF can assist in pulling the medial eyebrow downward more than when these connecting fibers are not present. Contraction of these distinct connecting fibers between the DS and the LLSAN can also slightly elevate the nasal ala and upper lip. The DS was examined in 44 specimens of embalmed adult Korean cadavers. We found that the DS connected to the LLSAN or the OOc INF by muscle fibers or thin aponeuroses in 33 (75.0%) of the 44 specimens. The DS was connected to both the LLSAN and OOc INF by muscle fibers or aponeuroses and had no connection to either in 5 (11.4%) and 11 (25.0%) specimens, respectively. The DS was connected to the LLSAN by the muscle fibers and thin aponeuroses in 6 (13.6%) and 4 (9.1%) specimens, respectively. The DS was connected to the OOc INF by the muscle fibers and thin aponeuroses in 5 (11.4%) and 23 (52.3%) specimens, respectively. Our findings regarding the anatomical connections of the glabellar region DS to the midface LLSAN and OOc INF provide insights on the dynamic balance between the brow depressors such as the DS and brow-elevating muscle and contribute to understanding the anatomical origins of individual variation in facial expressions. These results can also improve the safety, predictability, and aesthetics of treatments for the glabellar region with botulinum toxin type A and can be helpful when performing electromyography.

In this study, a literature survey was conducted of research into the development and use of wearable devices and sensors in patients with depression. We collected 18 studies that had investigated wearable devices for assessment, monitoring, or prediction of depression. In this report, we examine the sensors of the various types of wearable devices (e.g., actigraphy units, wristbands, fitness trackers, and smartwatches) and parameters measured through sensors in people with depression. In addition, we discuss future trends, referring to research in other areas employing wearable devices, and suggest the challenges of using wearable devices in the field of depression. Real-time objective monitoring of symptoms and novel approaches for diagnosis and treatment using wearable devices will lead to changes in management of patients with depression. During the process, it is necessary to overcome several issues, including limited types of collected data, reliability, user adherence, and privacy concerns.

A minute thrombus can pass through a small type of interatrial communication, which can result in a stroke or transient ischemic attack and several associated symptoms. This study sought to investigate a new type of interatrial communication. Thirty-one hearts from embalmed adult cadavers were investigated. Each interatrial channels (IACs) was classified as either an open or obstructed channel according to the connection of each hole on the right and left surfaces of the interatrial septum. Open channels were found in two specimens (6.5%). Both open and obstructed IACs followed tortuous courses through the interatrial septum. On the right surface of the interatrial septum, the hole was usually found adjacent to the left border of the interatrial septum between the opening of the superior vena cava into the right atrium and the superior margin of the fossa ovalis. Conversely, holes on the left surface of the interatrial septum were usually found in the upper and middle parts adjacent to the left border of the interatrial septum. This novel finding is expected to support our understanding of the onset of possible symptoms such as stroke in the absence of classical atrial septal defects.

The aim of this study was to clarify the heights and spatial relationships of the facial muscles acting on the nasolabial fold (NLF) by dissection and three-dimensional microcomputed tomography for use in aesthetic treatments. This study used 56 specimens from 34 embalmed adult Korean. A reference line (RF) was set to imitate the NLF after removing the skin, from the superior point of the alar facial crease to the lateral point of the orbicularis oris muscle at the level of the corner of the mouth. The heights and spatial relationships of the facial muscles along the RF could be categorized into five main patterns. The dominant pattern was that the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi muscle (LLSAN), levator labii superioris muscle (LLS), zygomaticus minor muscle (Zmi), and zygomaticus major muscle (Zmj) were on the medial third, medial half, middle third, and lateral third of the RF, respectively. In micro-CT imaging, beneath the skin of the medial half of the NLF, the LLSAN and Zmi fibers inserted into the dermis of the NLF and adjacent to the NLF. Beneath the skin of the middle third of the NLF, the Zmi fibers were found before the muscle inserted into the dermis of the NLF and adjacent to the NLF. Beneath the skin of the lateral third of the NLF, the lateral margin of the orbicularis oris muscle and some Zmj fibers were found at the location of the NLF. The present study utilized dissections and micro-CT to reveal the general pattern and variations of heights and spatial relationships of the facial muscles passing beneath the NLF. These findings will be useful for understanding which muscles affect specific parts of NLFs with various contours, for reducing the NLF in aesthetic treatments, and for reconstructing the NLF in cases of facial paralysis.

Objective: To assess the association between the healthcare system’s efficiency and policy factors (the types of healthcare systems and various health policy indicators). Methods: In this study, a data envelopment analysis (DEA) with bootstrapping was applied to the healthcare system’s efficiency to correct the bias of efficiency scores and to rank countries appropriately. We analyzed data mainly from the OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) Health Data from 2014. After obtaining the efficiency score result, we analyzed which policy factor caused the inefficiency of the healthcare system by Tobit Regression. Results: Based on five types of healthcare system classification, the result suggested that the social health insurance (e.g., Austria, Germany, Switzerland) showed the lowest efficiency score on average when compared to other types of systems, but evidence of a statistically significant difference in healthcare efficiency among four types of healthcare systems was not found. It was shown that the pure technological efficiency of the healthcare system was negatively influenced by two main factors: user choice for basic insurance coverage and degree of decentralization to sub-national governments. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that countries with relatively low healthcare system efficiency may learn from countries that implement policies related to a low level of user choice and a high level of centralization to achieve more economical allocation of their healthcare resources.

The Michaelis–Menten (MM) rate law has been a fundamental tool in describing enzyme-catalyzed reactions for over a century. When substrates and enzymes are homogeneously distributed, the validity of the MM rate law can be easily assessed based on relative concentrations: the substrate is in large excess over the enzyme-substrate complex. However, the applicability of this conventional criterion remains unclear when species exhibit spatial heterogeneity, a prevailing scenario in biological systems. Here, we explore the MM rate law's applicability under spatial heterogeneity by using partial differential equations. In this study, molecules diffuse very slowly, allowing them to locally reach quasi-steady states at each time point. We find that the conventional criterion for the validity of the MM rate law cannot be readily extended to heterogeneous environments solely through spatial averages of molecular concentrations. That is, even when the conventional criterion for the spatial averages is satisfied, the MM rate law fails to capture the enzyme catalytic rate under spatial heterogeneity. In contrast, a slightly modified form of the MM rate law, based on the total quasi-steady state approximation (tQSSA), is accurate. Specifically, the tQSSA-based modified form, but not the original MM rate law, accurately predicts the drug clearance via cytochrome P450 enzymes and the ultrasensitive phosphorylation in heterogeneous environments. Our findings shed light on how to simplify spatiotemporal models for enzyme-catalyzed reactions in the right context, ensuring accurate conclusions and avoiding misinterpretations in in silico simulations. Author summary: For over a century, scientists have relied on the simple Michaelis–Menten (MM) rate law to explain how enzymes function. The conventional criterion for using the MM rate law has been derived in homogeneous environments where species are evenly dispersed (e.g., in vitro experiments). Here, we found that the conventional criterion does not work in intracellular environments where species are heterogeneously distributed and diffuse slowly. However, we find that a slightly modified formula of the MM rate law, based on total quasi-steady state approximation (tQSSA), is accurate even in heterogeneous environments. In particular, this modified formula, unlike the MM rate law, accurately predicts the rate of drug metabolism and ultrasensitive phosphorylation when species are not evenly distributed. Our results provide insight into how to use simplified models for describing enzyme functions in such non-evenly distributed environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we propose a restoration algorithm for distorted objects using a curvature-driven flow. First, we capture the convex-hull shaped contour of the distorted object using the mean curvature flow. With the supplemented mass on the captured feature, we evolve the constraint mean curvature flow to a steady state, preserving the non-distorted region. With respect to the mass, we select a restorative shape by considering the square of the curvature derivative. The Allen–Cahn and Cahn–Hilliard equations are applied to the generated restored image from the implicit curvature motions represented by the order parameter. We impose the Dirichlet boundary condition for the order parameter and the Neumann boundary for the chemical potential to fix the feature and to inherit the mass conservation, respectively. We provided examples of the restoration of half-circle and parentheses-shaped objects to reconstruct a circle shape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study used microdissection, histology, and microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) with the aims of determining the prevalence and patterns of the depressor septi nasi (DSN) and orbicularis oris (OOr) muscles attached to the footplate of the medial crus (fMC) of the major alar cartilage, focusing on their crossing fibers. The DSN and OOr attached to the fMC of the major alar cartilage were investigated in 76 samples from 38 embalmed Korean adult cadavers (20 males, 18 females; mean age 70 years). The DSN, OOr, or both were attached to the fMC. When the DSN ran unilaterally or was absent, some OOr fibers ascended to attach to the fMC instead of the DSN in 20.6% of the samples. Crossing fibers of the DSN or OOr attached to the fMC were found in 82.4% of the samples. Bilateral and unilateral crossing fibers were found in 32.4% and 50.0%, respectively, and no crossing fibers were found in 17.6%. The DSN and OOr that attached to the fMC could be categorized into six types according to presence of the DSN and the crossing patterns of the DSN and OOr. Anatomical findings of the DSN and OOr that attached to the fMC were confirmed in histology and micro-CT images. These findings offer insights on anatomical mechanisms that may underlie the dynamic pulling forces generated by muscles that attach to the fMCs and on evolutionary variation observed in human facial expressions. They can also provide useful information for guiding rhinoplasty of the nasal tip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the 1-st experimental group (12 rabbits), the muscle flap being brought with the nerve-vascular bundle from the massete muscle had a trophic effect and substantially slowed down the tissue destruction processes. It is characterized by progressive muscle weakness with dystrophic muscle pathology and currently has no known cure or treatment. In the 2-nd experimental group (15 rabbits), following myoplasty with the use of AG, there was formed a strip of the loose connective tissue between the buccal muscle and massete muscle flap which contributed to the rapid invasion of the trigeminal nerve axons to the innervated muscle. This study measured the anterior interosseous nerve (AIN) branch outpoint and the innervated muscle nerve entry point to the muscle belly. Rats with atrophy of suboccipital muscles showed positive signs of chronic headache in both b... Dalian Medical University Jing Zhuang, Chan Li, Xiao Song Wei, Sheng Bo Yu, Hong Jin Sui ZJsmile1996@163.com Rats with atrophy of suboccipital muscles showed positive signs of chronic headache in both behavioral and proteomic manner A group of connective tissue bridging the dura at level of atlantoaxial and atlantooccipital space between suboccipital muscles (especially rectus capitis posterior minor muscle, RCPmi) in the deep suboccipital region is known as the myodural bridge (MDB). [Extracted from the article]

In this paper, we consider a fast and efficient numerical method for the modified Cahn–Hilliard equation with a logarithmic free energy for microstructure evolution. Even though it is physically more appropriate to use a logarithmic free energy, a quartic polynomial approximation is typically used for the logarithmic function due to a logarithmic singularity. In order to overcome the singularity problem, we regularize the logarithmic function and then apply an unconditionally stable scheme to the Cahn–Hilliard part in the model. We present computational results highlighting the different dynamic aspects from two different bulk free energy forms. We also demonstrate the robustness of the regularization of the logarithmic free energy, which implies the time-step restriction is based on accuracy and not stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we present an unconditionally energy stable linear scheme for the Cahn–Hilliard equation with a high‐order polynomial free energy. The classical Cahn–Hilliard equation does not satisfy the maximum principle; hence the order parameter can be shifted out of the minimum values of the double‐well potential. We adopt a high‐order polynomial potential to diminish this effect and employ the efficient linear convex splitting scheme. Since the stabilizing factor gradually increases as the degree of potential becomes greater, we modify a non‐physical part of potential as a fourth‐order polynomial to reduce the stabilizing factor. Numerical results as well as theoretical results demonstrate the accuracy and energy stability of our method. Furthermore, we verify that some limitations arising from applications of the classical Cahn–Hilliard model can be resolved by adopting a high‐order free energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro- and nanotechnology-enabled sensors have made remarkable advancements in the fields of biomedicine and the environment, enabling the sensitive and selective detection and quantification of diverse analytes. In biomedicine, these sensors have facilitated disease diagnosis, drug discovery, and point-of-care devices. In environmental monitoring, they have played a crucial role in assessing air, water, and soil quality, as well as ensured food safety. Despite notable progress, numerous challenges persist. This review article addresses recent developments in micro- and nanotechnology-enabled sensors for biomedical and environmental challenges, focusing on enhancing basic sensing techniques through micro/nanotechnology. Additionally, it explores the applications of these sensors in addressing current challenges in both biomedical and environmental domains. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for further research to expand the detection capabilities of sensors/devices, enhance sensitivity and selectivity, integrate wireless communication and energy-harvesting technologies, and optimize sample preparation, material selection, and automated components for sensor design, fabrication, and characterization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose an unconditionally gradient stable scheme for solving the Cahn–Hilliard equation with second‐order accuracy in time using the effective time‐step analysis. The conventional convex splitting scheme is one of the most well‐known methods for solving gradient flows, and it guarantees both energy stability and first‐order accuracy in time. Recently, there are some researches, which are extended to the second‐order accuracy; however, most of results provide the proof of energy stability for a modified (pseudo) energy or in a weak sense. In this paper, we prove the energy stability of the proposed method with respect to the Ginzburg–Landau free energy functional. Moreover, the unique solvability, mass conservation, and accuracy of the proposed scheme are also proven based on the convex splitting approach. The numerical experiments are presented to show convergence rate, mass conservation, energy stability, and phase separation are in good agreement with the theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An effective time step analysis to the linear convex splitting scheme for the Allen–Cahn equation with a high‐order polynomial free energy is presented in this article. Although the convex splitting scheme is unconditionally stable, using a large time step causes a time step rescaling effect, leading to delayed dynamics of the governing equation. We verify this problem by comparing it with a reformulated semi‐implicit scheme using the effective time step. Theoretical results show that the discrete energy stability and maximum‐principle hold, and the numerical results demonstrate that the time step rescaling issue can be resolved using the effective time step. We confirm that slow dynamics due to high‐order potential is alleviated by the time step modification through the results of motion by mean curvature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine how the depressor supercilii (DS) connects to the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi (LLSAN) and inferior fibers of the orbicularis oculi (OOc INF) in the human midface. While grimacing, contraction of the DS with fibers connecting to the LLSAN and OOc INF can assist in pulling the medial eyebrow downward more than when these connecting fibers are not present. Contraction of these distinct connecting fibers between the DS and the LLSAN can also slightly elevate the nasal ala and upper lip. The DS was examined in 44 specimens of embalmed adult Korean cadavers. We found that the DS connected to the LLSAN or the OOc INF by muscle fibers or thin aponeuroses in 33 (75.0%) of the 44 specimens. The DS was connected to both the LLSAN and OOc INF by muscle fibers or aponeuroses and had no connection to either in 5 (11.4%) and 11 (25.0%) specimens, respectively. The DS was connected to the LLSAN by the muscle fibers and thin aponeuroses in 6 (13.6%) and 4 (9.1%) specimens, respectively. The DS was connected to the OOc INF by the muscle fibers and thin aponeuroses in 5 (11.4%) and 23 (52.3%) specimens, respectively. Our findings regarding the anatomical connections of the glabellar region DS to the midface LLSAN and OOc INF provide insights on the dynamic balance between the brow depressors such as the DS and brow-elevating muscle and contribute to understanding the anatomical origins of individual variation in facial expressions. These results can also improve the safety, predictability, and aesthetics of treatments for the glabellar region with botulinum toxin type A and can be helpful when performing electromyography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine the muscular arrangement of the human pyloric sphincter using a comprehensive approach that involved microdissection, histology, and microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT). The stomachs of 80 embalmed Korean adult cadavers were obtained. In all specimens, loose muscular tissue of the innermost aspect of the sphincter wall ran aborally, forming the newly found inner longitudinal muscle bundles, entered the duodenum, and connected with the nearby circular bundles. In all specimens, approximately one-third of the outer longitudinal layer of the sphincter entered its inner circular layer, divided the circular layer into several parts, and finally connected with the circular bundles. Anatomical findings around the sphincter were confirmed in micro-CT images. The sphincter wall comprised three layers: an inner layer of longitudinal bundles, a middle layer of major circular and minor longitudinal bundles, and an outer layer of longitudinal bundles. The stomach outer longitudinal bundles were connected to the sphincter circular bundles. The inner longitudinal bundles of the sphincter were connected to the adjacent circular bundles of the duodenum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The compact method guarantees high order accuracy and comprise point stencils; however, the alternating direction implicit (ADI)-type operator splitting method is difficult to implement. Here, a non-iterative compact ADI-type operator splitting scheme with stability for the Allen–Cahn equation is presented. Operator splitting comprises temporal and spatial splitting. Temporal splitting is based on the hybrid method, which combines numerical and analytical methods to resolve the nonlinearity of the equation, and the maximum principle is maintained unconditionally. In addition, the temporal accuracy can be easily extended to the second or higher order. Spatial splitting is considered for a compact operator with a simple ADI-type implementation. This allows the Thomas algorithm, which is simple and fast, to be applied, including for solving two- and three-dimensional problems. The stability and accuracy proofs of the proposed scheme are presented. The numerical results show that the accuracy, stability, efficiency, and dynamics are consistent with theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A minute thrombus can pass through a small type of interatrial communication, which can result in a stroke or transient ischemic attack and several associated symptoms. This study sought to investigate a new type of interatrial communication. Thirty-one hearts from embalmed adult cadavers were investigated. Each interatrial channels (IACs) was classified as either an open or obstructed channel according to the connection of each hole on the right and left surfaces of the interatrial septum. Open channels were found in two specimens (6.5%). Both open and obstructed IACs followed tortuous courses through the interatrial septum. On the right surface of the interatrial septum, the hole was usually found adjacent to the left border of the interatrial septum between the opening of the superior vena cava into the right atrium and the superior margin of the fossa ovalis. Conversely, holes on the left surface of the interatrial septum were usually found in the upper and middle parts adjacent to the left border of the interatrial septum. This novel finding is expected to support our understanding of the onset of possible symptoms such as stroke in the absence of classical atrial septal defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to clarify the heights and spatial relationships of the facial muscles acting on the nasolabial fold (NLF) by dissection and three-dimensional microcomputed tomography for use in aesthetic treatments. This study used 56 specimens from 34 embalmed adult Korean. A reference line (RF) was set to imitate the NLF after removing the skin, from the superior point of the alar facial crease to the lateral point of the orbicularis oris muscle at the level of the corner of the mouth. The heights and spatial relationships of the facial muscles along the RF could be categorized into five main patterns. The dominant pattern was that the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi muscle (LLSAN), levator labii superioris muscle (LLS), zygomaticus minor muscle (Zmi), and zygomaticus major muscle (Zmj) were on the medial third, medial half, middle third, and lateral third of the RF, respectively. In micro-CT imaging, beneath the skin of the medial half of the NLF, the LLSAN and Zmi fibers inserted into the dermis of the NLF and adjacent to the NLF. Beneath the skin of the middle third of the NLF, the Zmi fibers were found before the muscle inserted into the dermis of the NLF and adjacent to the NLF. Beneath the skin of the lateral third of the NLF, the lateral margin of the orbicularis oris muscle and some Zmj fibers were found at the location of the NLF. The present study utilized dissections and micro-CT to reveal the general pattern and variations of heights and spatial relationships of the facial muscles passing beneath the NLF. These findings will be useful for understanding which muscles affect specific parts of NLFs with various contours, for reducing the NLF in aesthetic treatments, and for reconstructing the NLF in cases of facial paralysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a fourth-order spatial and second-order temporal accurate and unconditionally stable compact finite-difference scheme for the Cahn–Hilliard equation. The proposed scheme has a higher-order accuracy in space than conventional central difference schemes even though both methods use a three-point stencil. Its compactness may be useful when applying the scheme to numerical implementation. In a temporal discretization, the secant-type algorithm, which is known as the second-order accurate scheme, is applied. Furthermore, the unique solvability regardless of the temporal and spatial step size, unconditionally gradient stability, and discrete mass conservation are proven. It guarantees that large temporal and spatial step sizes could be used with the high-order accuracy and the original properties of the CH equation. Then, numerical results are presented to confirm the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed scheme. The efficiency of the proposed scheme is better than other low order accurate stable schemes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the association between the healthcare system's efficiency and policy factors (the types of healthcare systems and various health policy indicators). Methods: In this study, a data envelopment analysis (DEA) with bootstrapping was applied to the healthcare system's efficiency to correct the bias of efficiency scores and to rank countries appropriately. We analyzed data mainly from the OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) Health Data from 2014. After obtaining the efficiency score result, we analyzed which policy factor caused the inefficiency of the healthcare system by Tobit Regression. Results: Based on five types of healthcare system classification, the result suggested that the social health insurance (e.g., Austria, Germany, Switzerland) showed the lowest efficiency score on average when compared to other types of systems, but evidence of a statistically significant difference in healthcare efficiency among four types of healthcare systems was not found. It was shown that the pure technological efficiency of the healthcare system was negatively influenced by two main factors: user choice for basic insurance coverage and degree of decentralization to sub-national governments. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that countries with relatively low healthcare system efficiency may learn from countries that implement policies related to a low level of user choice and a high level of centralization to achieve more economical allocation of their healthcare resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a mathematical model of contractile ring-driven cytokinesis is presented by using both phase-field and immersed-boundary methods in a three-dimensional domain. It is one of the powerful hypotheses that cytokinesis happens driven by the contractile ring; however, there are only few mathematical models following the hypothesis, to the author’s knowledge. I consider a hybrid method to model the phenomenon. First, a cell membrane is represented by a zero-contour of a phase-field implicitly because of its topological change. Otherwise, immersed-boundary particles represent a contractile ring explicitly based on the author’s previous work. Here, the multi-component (or vector-valued) phase-field equation is considered to avoid the emerging of each cell membrane right after their divisions. Using a convex splitting scheme, the governing equation of the phase-field method has unique solvability. The numerical convergence of contractile ring to cell membrane is proved. Several numerical simulations are performed to validate the proposed model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Markov chain simulation was performed to extract points in a failure region. A Kriging metamodel was constructed to approximate a limit state based on the points extracted by the Markov chain simulation. A kernel sampling density was constructed to approximate the optimal importance sampling density. The points extracted in the failure region by the Markov chain simulation were assumed as a mean of each kernel. An importance sampling method was applied to calculate the failure probability. In the importance sampling method, points are extracted from the kernel in the vicinity of a limit state. Considering the statistical distance as well as the learning function, additional experimental points were selected for the kriging metamodel. A stable numerical calculation method was applied to find the parameters of the kernel sampling density. The completeness of the Kriging metamodel was evaluated on the basis of possible changes in failure probability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incidence, clinical characteristics, and treatment outcomes of tuberculosis ( TB) and nontuberculous mycobacterial ( NTM) disease developed after transplantation ( TPL) in transplant recipients were investigated retrospectively. Between 1996 and 2013, 7342 solid-organ transplantation and 1266 hematopoietic stem cell transplantation were performed at a tertiary referral center in South Korea. Among them, TB and NTM disease developed in 130 and 22 patients, respectively. The overall incidence of TB was 257.4 cases/100 000 patient-years (95% confidence interval [ CI], 215.1-305.7) and that of NTM disease was 42.7 cases/100 000 patient-years (95% CI, 26.8-64.7). The median interval from organ TPL to the development of mycobacterial disease was 8.5 months (95% CI, 6.3-11.4) in recipients with TB patients and 24.2 months (95% CI, 13.5-55.7) in those with NTM, respectively. Among NTM patients, Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare complex was the most common causative organism, and nodular bronchiectatic type (77.8%) was the most frequent radiologic feature. Favorable treatment outcome was achieved in 83.7% (95% CI, 76.4-89.1) and 68.8% (95% CI, 44.4-85.8) of TB and NTM patients, respectively ( P = 0.166). In conclusion, the overall incidence of TB was higher than that of NTM disease in transplant recipients and treatment outcomes were favorable in both drug-susceptible TB and NTM patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We numerically investigate periodic traveling wave solutions for a diffusive predator-prey system with landscape features. The landscape features are modeled through the homogeneous Dirichlet boundary condition which is imposed at the edge of the obstacle domain. To effectively treat the Dirichlet boundary condition, we employ a robust and accurate numerical technique by using a boundary control function. We also propose a robust algorithm for calculating the numerical periodicity of the traveling wave solution. In numerical experiments, we show that periodic traveling waves which move out and away from the obstacle are effectively generated. We explain the formation of the traveling waves by comparing the wavelengths. The spatial asynchrony has been shown in quantitative detail for various obstacles. Furthermore, we apply our numerical technique to the complicated real landscape features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigates the spatial and temporal patterns of daily solar radiation based on topography and air temperature. Application of the TopoRad radiation model; Calculation of global radiation; Separation of topographic corrections calculations.

This experiment created a mobile 2D/3D switchable laser projection system which uses a 2D MEMS scanner. This system can display a two-dimensional (2D) or a three-dimensional (3D) image in only one optical engine. In particular, we propose the use of a mobile Color Separation 3D laser projection system that uses different wavelengths of laser diodes. This projection system can display the left and right stereoscopic images simultaneously in one optical engine without using other components such as an alternate color wheel. In this study, the 0.35% and 0.53% crosstalk for left and right has been achieved by separating the wavelengths using filter glasses in a laser projection system consisting of a 2D MEMS scanner and two sets of Red, Green and Blue laser diodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We review the immersed boundary (IB) method in order to investigate the fluid-structure interaction problems governed by the Navier–Stokes equation. The configuration is described by the Lagrangian variables, and the velocity and pressure of the fluid are defined in Cartesian coordinates. The interaction between two different coordinates is involved in a discrete Dirac-delta function. We describe the IB method and its numerical implementation. Standard numerical simulations are performed in order to show the effect of the parameters and discrete Dirac-delta functions. Simulations of flow around a cylinder and movement of Caenorhabditis elegans are introduced as rigid and flexible boundary problems, respectively. Furthermore, we provide the MATLAB codes for our simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an adaptive technique to enhance the efficiency of magnetic resonance based wireless power transfer system for future portable consumer electronics. In order to transfer energy to mobile devices, asymmetric coupling resonators with larger sizes of coils in a transmitter than those in a receiver are exploited. By changing a coupling coefficient between coils only in the transmitting side, the system performance increases significantly. An experiment setup has been developed, and the S21 parameter has been measured showing 3.3 dB improvement of system using the adaptive technique at a distance of 65 cm. An important finding is that the technique is also effective in case of multiple receiving coils. The measured performance was improved by roughly 1 dB with the use of the adaptive technique. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]