Showing papers by "Tohoku University published in 2011"
University of Amsterdam1, University of Toronto2, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse3, Cleveland Clinic4, Tohoku University5, Charles University in Prague6, University College Dublin7, University of Basel8, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai9, Lund University10, University College London11, University of California, San Francisco12, Mayo Clinic13, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston14
TL;DR: These revisions simplify the McDonald Criteria, preserve their diagnostic sensitivity and specificity, address their applicability across populations, and may allow earlier diagnosis and more uniform and widespread use.
Abstract: New evidence and consensus has led to further revision of the McDonald Criteria for diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. The use of imaging for demonstration of dissemination of central nervous system lesions in space and time has been simplified, and in some circumstances dissemination in space and time can be established by a single scan. These revisions simplify the Criteria, preserve their diagnostic sensitivity and specificity, address their applicability across populations, and may allow earlier diagnosis and more uniform and widespread use.
8,883 citations
TL;DR: Above an annealing temperature of 300 °C, chemically exfoliated MoS2 exhibit prominent band gap photoluminescence, similar to mechanically exfoliate monolayers, indicating that their semiconducting properties are largely restored.
Abstract: A two-dimensional crystal of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) monolayer is a photoluminescent direct gap semiconductor in striking contrast to its bulk counterpart. Exfoliation of bulk MoS2 via Li intercalation is an attractive route to large-scale synthesis of monolayer crystals. However, this method results in loss of pristine semiconducting properties of MoS2 due to structural changes that occur during Li intercalation. Here, we report structural and electronic properties of chemically exfoliated MoS2. The metastable metallic phase that emerges from Li intercalation was found to dominate the properties of as-exfoliated material, but mild annealing leads to gradual restoration of the semiconducting phase. Above an annealing temperature of 300 °C, chemically exfoliated MoS2 exhibit prominent band gap photoluminescence, similar to mechanically exfoliated monolayers, indicating that their semiconducting properties are largely restored.
3,403 citations
Max Planck Society1, National University of Cordoba2, Centre national de la recherche scientifique3, Macquarie University4, University of Paris-Sud5, University of Western Sydney6, University of Minnesota7, VU University Amsterdam8, University of Arizona9, University of California, Berkeley10, University of Guelph11, Australian National University12, University of Innsbruck13, University of Leeds14, University of Groningen15, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul16, University of Cape Town17, University of Wollongong18, New Jersey Institute of Technology19, Centro Agronómico Tropical de Investigación y Enseñanza20, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory21, University of Alaska Fairbanks22, University of Cambridge23, Kansas State University24, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ25, Arizona State University26, University of Giessen27, Autonomous University of Barcelona28, University of Maryland, College Park29, Universidad del Tolima30, University of São Paulo31, University of La Réunion32, University of York33, University of Sydney34, Harvard University35, Goethe University Frankfurt36, University of Sheffield37, University of Ulm38, State University of Campinas39, Kenyon College40, Royal Botanic Gardens41, University of Florida42, University of Oldenburg43, University of Nebraska–Lincoln44, Tohoku University45, Northern Arizona University46, University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire47, Naturalis48, James Cook University49, Institut national de la recherche agronomique50, Newcastle University51, University of New South Wales52, Leipzig University53, Columbia University54, Estonian University of Life Sciences55, Polish Academy of Sciences56, Moscow State University57, Kyushu University58, Wageningen University and Research Centre59, Spanish National Research Council60, University of Regensburg61, University of Rennes62, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières63, Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research64, Technical University of Denmark65, University of California, Los Angeles66, Hokkaido University67, Université de Sherbrooke68, Syracuse University69, Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária70, University of Aberdeen71, Michigan State University72, Oak Ridge National Laboratory73, University of Leicester74, Utah State University75, Smithsonian Institution76, University of Missouri77
TL;DR: TRY as discussed by the authors is a global database of plant traits, including morphological, anatomical, physiological, biochemical and phenological characteristics of plants and their organs, which can be used for a wide range of research from evolutionary biology, community and functional ecology to biogeography.
Abstract: Plant traits – the morphological, anatomical, physiological, biochemical and phenological characteristics of plants and their organs – determine how primary producers respond to environmental factors, affect other trophic levels, influence ecosystem processes and services and provide a link from species richness to ecosystem functional diversity. Trait data thus represent the raw material for a wide range of research from evolutionary biology, community and functional ecology to biogeography. Here we present the global database initiative named TRY, which has united a wide range of the plant trait research community worldwide and gained an unprecedented buy-in of trait data: so far 93 trait databases have been contributed. The data repository currently contains almost three million trait entries for 69 000 out of the world's 300 000 plant species, with a focus on 52 groups of traits characterizing the vegetative and regeneration stages of the plant life cycle, including growth, dispersal, establishment and persistence. A first data analysis shows that most plant traits are approximately log-normally distributed, with widely differing ranges of variation across traits. Most trait variation is between species (interspecific), but significant intraspecific variation is also documented, up to 40% of the overall variation. Plant functional types (PFTs), as commonly used in vegetation models, capture a substantial fraction of the observed variation – but for several traits most variation occurs within PFTs, up to 75% of the overall variation. In the context of vegetation models these traits would better be represented by state variables rather than fixed parameter values. The improved availability of plant trait data in the unified global database is expected to support a paradigm shift from species to trait-based ecology, offer new opportunities for synthetic plant trait research and enable a more realistic and empirically grounded representation of terrestrial vegetation in Earth system models.
2,017 citations
TL;DR: It is shown that hybrid structures made of nanoporous gold and nanocrystalline MnO(2) have enhanced conductivity, resulting in a specific capacitance of the constituent MnO (2) (~1,145 F g(-1)) that is close to the theoretical value.
Abstract: Electrochemical supercapacitors can deliver high levels of electrical power and offer long operating lifetimes, but their energy storage density is too low for many important applications. Pseudocapacitive transition-metal oxides such as MnO(2) could be used to make electrodes in such supercapacitors, because they are predicted to have a high capacitance for storing electrical charge while also being inexpensive and not harmful to the environment. However, the poor conductivity of MnO(2) (10(-5)-10(-6) S cm(-1)) limits the charge/discharge rate for high-power applications. Here, we show that hybrid structures made of nanoporous gold and nanocrystalline MnO(2) have enhanced conductivity, resulting in a specific capacitance of the constituent MnO(2) (~1,145 F g(-1)) that is close to the theoretical value. The nanoporous gold allows electron transport through the MnO(2), and facilitates fast ion diffusion between the MnO(2) and the electrolytes while also acting as a double-layer capacitor. The high specific capacitances and charge/discharge rates offered by such hybrid structures make them promising candidates as electrodes in supercapacitors, combining high-energy storage densities with high levels of power delivery.
1,894 citations
TL;DR: A genetic risk score based on 29 genome-wide significant variants was associated with hypertension, left ventricular wall thickness, stroke and coronary artery disease, but not kidney disease or kidney function, and these findings suggest potential novel therapeutic pathways for cardiovascular disease prevention.
Abstract: Blood pressure is a heritable trait(1) influenced by several biological pathways and responsive to environmental stimuli. Over one billion people worldwide have hypertension (>= 140 mm Hg systolic blood pressure or >= 90 mm Hg diastolic blood pressure)(2). Even small increments in blood pressure are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events(3). This genome-wide association study of systolic and diastolic blood pressure, which used a multi-stage design in 200,000 individuals of European descent, identified sixteen novel loci: six of these loci contain genes previously known or suspected to regulate blood pressure (GUCY1A3-GUCY1B3, NPR3-C5orf23, ADM, FURIN-FES, GOSR2, GNAS-EDN3); the other ten provide new clues to blood pressure physiology. A genetic risk score based on 29 genome-wide significant variants was associated with hypertension, left ventricular wall thickness, stroke and coronary artery disease, but not kidney disease or kidney function. We also observed associations with blood pressure in East Asian, South Asian and African ancestry individuals. Our findings provide new insights into the genetics and biology of blood pressure, and suggest potential novel therapeutic pathways for cardiovascular disease prevention.
1,829 citations
Technische Universität München1, Novosibirsk State University2, Cornell University3, University of California, Davis4, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory5, Argonne National Laboratory6, Fermilab7, Florida State University8, Indiana University9, Brookhaven National Laboratory10, Wayne State University11, University of Paris-Sud12, GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research13, Ohio State University14, University of Regensburg15, University of Ferrara16, Polish Academy of Sciences17, University of Bari18, Max Planck Society19, Lancaster University20, Peking University21, Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility22, University of Auvergne23, University of Cincinnati24, Stanford University25, University of Alberta26, Forschungszentrum Jülich27, University of Hawaii28, Illinois Institute of Technology29, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory30, École Polytechnique31, Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics32, CERN33, Université catholique de Louvain34, Pratt Institute35, University of São Paulo36, Seoul National University37, Tsinghua University38, Stony Brook University39, University of Valencia40, University of Milan41, Tohoku University42, University of Minnesota43
TL;DR: The early years of this period were chronicled in the Quarkonium Working Group (QWG) CERN Yellow Report (YR) in 2004, which presented a comprehensive review of the status of the field at that time and provided specific recommendations for further progress as mentioned in this paper.
Abstract: A golden age for heavy-quarkonium physics dawned a decade ago, initiated by the confluence of exciting advances in quantum chromodynamics (QCD) and an explosion of related experimental activity. The early years of this period were chronicled in the Quarkonium Working Group (QWG) CERN Yellow Report (YR) in 2004, which presented a comprehensive review of the status of the field at that time and provided specific recommendations for further progress. However, the broad spectrum of subsequent breakthroughs, surprises, and continuing puzzles could only be partially anticipated. Since the release of the YR, the BESII program concluded only to give birth to BESIII; the B-factories and CLEO-c flourished; quarkonium production and polarization measurements at HERA and the Tevatron matured; and heavy-ion collisions at RHIC have opened a window on the deconfinement regime. All these experiments leave legacies of quality, precision, and unsolved mysteries for quarkonium physics, and therefore beg for continuing investigations at BESIII, the LHC, RHIC, FAIR, the Super Flavor and/or Tau-Charm factories, JLab, the ILC, and beyond. The list of newly found conventional states expanded to include h(c)(1P), chi(c2)(2P), B-c(+), and eta(b)(1S). In addition, the unexpected and still-fascinating X(3872) has been joined by more than a dozen other charmonium- and bottomonium-like "XYZ" states that appear to lie outside the quark model. Many of these still need experimental confirmation. The plethora of new states unleashed a flood of theoretical investigations into new forms of matter such as quark-gluon hybrids, mesonic molecules, and tetraquarks. Measurements of the spectroscopy, decays, production, and in-medium behavior of c (c) over bar, b (b) over bar, and b (c) over bar bound states have been shown to validate some theoretical approaches to QCD and highlight lack of quantitative success for others. Lattice QCD has grown from a tool with computational possibilities to an industrial-strength effort now dependent more on insight and innovation than pure computational power. New effective field theories for the description of quarkonium in different regimes have been developed and brought to a high degree of sophistication, thus enabling precise and solid theoretical predictions. Many expected decays and transitions have either been measured with precision or for the first time, but the confusing patterns of decays, both above and below open-flavor thresholds, endure and have deepened. The intriguing details of quarkonium suppression in heavy-ion collisions that have emerged from RHIC have elevated the importance of separating hot- and cold-nuclear-matter effects in quark-gluon plasma studies. This review systematically addresses all these matters and concludes by prioritizing directions for ongoing and future efforts.
1,354 citations
TL;DR: The categorization of AIP into types 1 and 2 should be helpful for further clarification of the clinical features, pathogenesis, and natural history of these diseases.
Abstract: Objectives:To achieve the goal of developing international consensus diagnostic criteria (ICDC) for autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP).Methods:An international panel of experts met during the 14th Congress of the International Association of Pancreatology held in Fukuoka, Japan, from July 11 through 13,
1,232 citations
TL;DR: The Keap1–Nrf2 regulatory pathway plays a central role in the protection of cells against oxidative and xenobiotic damage and discovery and development of selective Nrf2 inhibitors should make a critical contribution to improved cancer therapy.
Abstract: The Keap1–Nrf2 regulatory pathway plays a central role in the protection of cells against oxidative and xenobiotic damage. Under unstressed conditions, Nrf2 is constantly ubiquitinated by the Cul3–Keap1 ubiquitin E3 ligase complex and rapidly degraded in proteasomes. Upon exposure to electrophilic and oxidative stresses, reactive cysteine residues of Keap1 become modified, leading to a decline in the E3 ligase activity, stabilization of Nrf2 and robust induction of a battery of cytoprotective genes. Biochemical and structural analyses have revealed that the intact Keap1 homodimer forms a cherry-bob structure in which one molecule of Nrf2 associates with two molecules of Keap1 by using two binding sites within the Neh2 domain of Nrf2. This two-site binding appears critical for Nrf2 ubiquitination. In many human cancers, missense mutations in KEAP1 and NRF2 genes have been identified. These mutations disrupt the Keap1–Nrf2 complex activity involved in ubiquitination and degradation of Nrf2 and result in constitutive activation of Nrf2. Elevated expression of Nrf2 target genes confers advantages in terms of stress resistance and cell proliferation in normal and cancer cells. Discovery and development of selective Nrf2 inhibitors should make a critical contribution to improved cancer therapy.
1,232 citations
TL;DR: Genetic deletion of Lgr4/5 in mouse intestinal crypt cultures phenocopies withdrawal of Rspo1 and can be rescued by Wnt pathway activation, which will guide future studies towards the application of R-spondins for regenerative purposes of tissues expressing Lgr5 homologues.
Abstract: The adult stem cell marker Lgr5 and its relative Lgr4 are often co-expressed in Wnt-driven proliferative compartments. We find that conditional deletion of both genes in the mouse gut impairs Wnt target gene expression and results in the rapid demise of intestinal crypts, thus phenocopying Wnt pathway inhibition. Mass spectrometry demonstrates that Lgr4 and Lgr5 associate with the Frizzled/Lrp Wnt receptor complex. Each of the four R-spondins, secreted Wnt pathway agonists, can bind to Lgr4, -5 and -6. In HEK293 cells, RSPO1 enhances canonical WNT signals initiated by WNT3A. Removal of LGR4 does not affect WNT3A signalling, but abrogates the RSPO1-mediated signal enhancement, a phenomenon rescued by re-expression of LGR4, -5 or -6. Genetic deletion of Lgr4/5 in mouse intestinal crypt cultures phenocopies withdrawal of Rspo1 and can be rescued by Wnt pathway activation. Lgr5 homologues are facultative Wnt receptor components that mediate Wnt signal enhancement by soluble R-spondin proteins. These results will guide future studies towards the application of R-spondins for regenerative purposes of tissues expressing Lgr5 homologues.
1,133 citations
TL;DR: A review of the glass-forming ability, structure and physical, chemical, mechanical and magnetic properties of bulk glassy alloys with the emphasis on recent results obtained since 1990, together with applications of BGA, achieved mainly in Tohoku University is presented in this paper.
1,012 citations
TL;DR: Environmental acidification is the main determinant of the phenotypic and genotypic changes that occur in the microflora during caries.
Abstract: Dental biofilms produce acids from carbohydrates that result in caries. According to the extended caries ecological hypothesis, the caries process consists of 3 reversible stages. The microflora on clinically sound enamel surfaces contains mainly non-mutans streptococci and Actinomyces, in which acidification is mild and infrequent. This is compatible with equilibrium of the demineralization/remineralization balance or shifts the mineral balance toward net mineral gain (dynamic stability stage). When sugar is supplied frequently, acidification becomes moderate and frequent. This may enhance the acidogenicity and acidurance of the non-mutans bacteria adaptively. In addition, more aciduric strains, such as ‘low-pH’ non-mutans streptococci, may increase selectively. These microbial acid-induced adaptation and selection processes may, over time, shift the demineralization/remineralization balance toward net mineral loss, leading to initiation/progression of dental caries (acidogenic stage). Under severe and p...
TL;DR: In this article, the power of Raman spectroscopy as a probe and a characterization tool for sp2 carbon materials is discussed, with particular emphasis given to the field of photophysics.
Abstract: This paper reviews progress that has been made in the use of Raman spectroscopy to study graphene and carbon nanotubes These are two nanostructured forms of sp2 carbon materials that are of major current interest These nanostructured materials have attracted particular attention because of their simplicity, small physical size and the exciting new science they have introduced This review focuses on each of these materials systems individually and comparatively as prototype examples of nanostructured materials In particular, this paper discusses the power of Raman spectroscopy as a probe and a characterization tool for sp2 carbon materials, with particular emphasis given to the field of photophysics Some coverage is also given to the close relatives of these sp2 carbon materials, namely graphite, a three-dimensional (3D) material based on the AB stacking of individual graphene layers, and carbon nanoribbons, which are one-dimensional (1D) planar structures, where the width of the ribbon is on the nano
Vanderbilt University1, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center2, National Cancer Research Institute3, Tulane University4, Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram5, Aichi Medical University6, University of Minnesota7, Tohoku University8, Academia Sinica9, National Taiwan University10, Seoul National University11, University of Chicago12, Peking Union Medical College13, International Agency for Research on Cancer14, Dokkyo Medical University15, Nagoya City University16, National University of Singapore17, New York University18, China Medical University (Taiwan)19, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai20
TL;DR: Underweight was associated with a substantially increased risk of death in all Asian populations, however, the excess risk of died was seen among East Asians but not among Indians and Bangladeshis.
Abstract: A b s t r ac t Background Most studies that have evaluated the association between the body-mass index (BMI) and the risks of death from any cause and from specific causes have been conducted in populations of European origin. Methods We performed pooled analyses to evaluate the association between BMI and the risk of death among more than 1.1 million persons recruited in 19 cohorts in Asia. The analyses included approximately 120,700 deaths that occurred during a mean follow-up period of 9.2 years. Cox regression models were used to adjust for confounding factors. Results In the cohorts of East Asians, including Chinese, Japanese, and Koreans, the lowest risk of death was seen among persons with a BMI (the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in meters) in the range of 22.6 to 27.5. The risk was elevated among persons with BMI levels either higher or lower than that range — by a factor of up to 1.5 among those with a BMI of more than 35.0 and by a factor of 2.8 among those with a BMI of 15.0 or less. A similar U-shaped association was seen between BMI and the risks of death from cancer, from cardiovascular diseases, and from other causes. In the cohorts comprising Indians and Bangladeshis, the risks of death from any cause and from causes other than cancer or cardiovascular disease were increased among persons with a BMI of 20.0 or less, as compared with those with a BMI of 22.6 to 25.0, whereas there was no excess risk of either death from any cause or cause-specific death associated with a high BMI. Conclusions Underweight was associated with a substantially increased risk of death in all Asian populations. The excess risk of death associated with a high BMI, however, was seen among East Asians but not among Indians and Bangladeshis.
Abstract: We have obtained, for the first time, a quantitative protein expression profile of membrane transporters and receptors in human brain microvessels, that is, the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Brain microvessels were isolated from brain cortexes of seven males (16-77 years old) and protein expression of 114 membrane proteins was determined by means of a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric quantification method using recently established in-silico peptide selection criteria. Among drug transporters, breast cancer resistance protein showed the most abundant protein expression (8.14 fmol/μg protein), and its expression level was 1.85-fold greater in humans than in mice. By contrast, the expression level of P-glycoprotein in humans (6.06 fmol/μg protein) was 2.33-fold smaller than that of mdr1a in mice. The organic anion transporters reported in rodent BBB, that is, multidrug resistance-associated protein, organic anion transporter and organic anion-transporting polypeptide family members, were under limit of quantification in humans, except multidrug resistance-associated protein 4 (0.195 fmol/μg protein). Among detected transporters and receptors for endogenous substances, the glucose transporter 1 level was similar to that of mouse, while the L-type amino acid transporter 1 level was fivefold smaller than that of mouse. These findings should be useful for understanding human BBB function and its differences from that in mouse.
TL;DR: Olmesartan was associated with a delayed onset of microalbuminuria, even though blood-pressure control in both groups was excellent according to current standards.
Abstract: A b s t r ac t Background Microalbuminuria is an early predictor of diabetic nephropathy and premature cardiovascular disease. We investigated whether treatment with an angiotensin-receptor blocker (ARB) would delay or prevent the occurrence of microalbuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes and normoalbuminuria. Methods In a randomized, double-blind, multicenter, controlled trial, we assigned 4447 patients with type 2 diabetes to receive olmesartan (at a dose of 40 mg once daily) or placebo for a median of 3.2 years. Additional antihypertensive drugs (except angiotensin-converting–enzyme inhibitors or ARBs) were used as needed to lower blood pressure to less than 130/80 mm Hg. The primary outcome was the time to the first onset of microalbuminuria. The times to the onset of renal and cardiovascular events were analyzed as secondary end points. Results The target blood pressure (<130/80 mm Hg) was achieved in nearly 80% of the patients taking olmesartan and 71% taking placebo; blood pressure measured in the clinic was lower by 3.1/1.9 mm Hg in the olmesartan group than in the placebo group. Microalbuminuria developed in 8.2% of the patients in the olmesartan group (178 of 2160 patients who could be evaluated) and 9.8% in the placebo group (210 of 2139); the time to the onset of microalbuminuria was increased by 23% with olmesartan (hazard ratio for onset of microalbuminuria, 0.77; 95% confidence interval, 0.63 to 0.94; P = 0.01). The serum creatinine level doubled in 1% of the patients in each group. Slightly fewer patients in the olmesartan group than in the placebo group had nonfatal cardiovascular events — 81 of 2232 patients (3.6%) as compared with 91 of 2215 patients (4.1%) (P = 0.37) — but a greater number had fatal cardiovascular events — 15 patients (0.7%) as compared with 3 patients (0.1%) (P = 0.01), a difference that was attributable in part to a higher rate of death from cardiovascular causes in the olmesartan group than in the placebo group among patients with preexisting coronary heart disease (11 of 564 patients [2.0%] vs. 1 of 540 [0.2%], P = 0.02). Conclusions Olmesartan was associated with a delayed onset of microalbuminuria, even though blood-pressure control in both groups was excellent according to current standards. The higher rate of fatal cardiovascular events with olmesartan among patients with preexisting coronary heart disease is of concern. (Funded by Daiichi Sankyo; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00185159.)
TL;DR: In this article, the authors make a detailed study of the effect of replacing the measurements of the inclusive cross section, σ(e+e− → hadrons), by the sum of the exclusive channels in the energy interval GeV, which includes a QCD sum-rule analysis of this region.
Abstract: We update our standard model predictions for g − 2 of the muon and for the hadronic contributions to the running of the QED coupling, Δα(5)had(M2Z). Particular emphasis is put on recent changes in the hadronic contributions from new data in the 2π channel and from the energy region just below 2 GeV. In particular, for the e+e− → π+π− contribution we include the recent 'radiative return' data from KLOE and BaBar. We also include the recent BaBar data on other exclusive channels. We make a detailed study of the effect of replacing the measurements of the inclusive cross section, σ(e+e− → hadrons), by the sum of the exclusive channels in the energy interval GeV, which includes a QCD sum-rule analysis of this energy region. Our favoured prediction for the muon anomalous magnetic moment is (g − 2)/2 = (11 659 182.8 ± 4.9) × 10−10 which is 3.3 σ below the present world-average measurement. We compare our g − 2 value with other recent calculations. Our prediction for the QED coupling, obtained via Δα(5)had(MZ2) = (276.26 ± 1.38) × 10−4 , is α(M2Z)−1 = 128.944 ± 0.019.
TL;DR: In this article, a review of the development of micro-power generators by focusing more on the advance in fundamental understanding of microscale combustion is presented, and the conventional concepts of combustion limits such as flammability limit, quenching diameter, and flame extinction and heat recirculation are revisited.
National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Japan1, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology2, Raman Research Institute3, Waseda University4, Osaka Institute of Technology5, Kyoto University6, Osaka City University7, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency8, University of Electro-Communications9, Kindai University10, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology11, Tokyo Institute of Technology12, Goddard Space Flight Center13, University of Tokyo14, Hiroshima University15, Ochanomizu University16, Liverpool John Moores University17, Nagoya University18, Nihon University19, Rikkyo University20, Tokyo Keizai University21, Yamanashi Eiwa College22, Rochester Institute of Technology23, Stanford University24, California Institute of Technology25, Hirosaki University26, Niigata University27, Tokai University28, Tohoku University29, Osaka University30, National Defense Academy of Japan31, University of Tübingen32, Hosei University33, University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee34, Tokyo University of Science35, University of Birmingham36
Patent•
14 Feb 2011TL;DR: A magnetoresistive element according to an embodiment includes: a first ferromagnetic layer having an axis of easy magnetization in a direction perpendicular to a film plane; a second nonmagnetic layer placed between the first and the second magnetoresists; and a second interfacial magnetic layer between the second and the nonmagians as mentioned in this paper.
Abstract: A magnetoresistive element according to an embodiment includes: a first ferromagnetic layer having an axis of easy magnetization in a direction perpendicular to a film plane; a second ferromagnetic layer having an axis of easy magnetization in a direction perpendicular to a film plane; a nonmagnetic layer placed between the first ferromagnetic layer and the second ferromagnetic layer; a first interfacial magnetic layer placed between the first ferromagnetic layer and the nonmagnetic layer; and a second interfacial magnetic layer placed between the second ferromagnetic layer and the nonmagnetic layer The first interfacial magnetic layer includes a first interfacial magnetic film, a second interfacial magnetic film placed between the first interfacial magnetic film and the nonmagnetic layer and having a different composition from that of the first interfacial magnetic film, and a first nonmagnetic film placed between the first interfacial magnetic film and the second interfacial magnetic film
TL;DR: Results indicate that RNF213 is the first identified susceptibility gene for MMD, and it is confirmed that mature lymphocytes express higher levels of Rnf213 mRNA than their immature counterparts.
Abstract: Moyamoya disease (MMD) shows progressive cerebral angiopathy characterized by bilateral internal carotid artery stenosis and abnormal collateral vessels. Although ∼ 15% of MMD cases are familial, the MMD gene(s) remain unknown. A genome-wide association study of 785,720 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) was performed, comparing 72 Japanese MMD patients with 45 Japanese controls and resulting in a strong association of chromosome 17q25-ter with MMD risk. This result was further confirmed by a locus-specific association study using 335 SNPs in the 17q25-ter region. A single haplotype consisting of seven SNPs at the RNF213 locus was tightly associated with MMD (P = 5.3 × 10(-10)). RNF213 encodes a really interesting new gene finger protein with an AAA ATPase domain and is abundantly expressed in spleen and leukocytes. An RNA in situ hybridization analysis of mouse tissues indicated that mature lymphocytes express higher levels of Rnf213 mRNA than their immature counterparts. Mutational analysis of RNF213 revealed a founder mutation, p.R4859K, in 95% of MMD families, 73% of non-familial MMD cases and 1.4% of controls; this mutation greatly increases the risk of MMD (P = 1.2 × 10(-43), odds ratio = 190.8, 95% confidence interval = 71.7-507.9). Three additional missense mutations were identified in the p.R4859K-negative patients. These results indicate that RNF213 is the first identified susceptibility gene for MMD.
TL;DR: The most reliable technology to facilitate M2M communication in the SG home area network is pointed out, and its shortcoming is noted, and a possible solution to deal with this shortcoming to improve SG communications scalability is presented.
Abstract: The advanced metering infrastructure of the smart grid presents the biggest growth potential in the machine-to-machine market today. Spurred by recent advances in M2M technologies, SG smart meters are expected not to require human intervention in characterizing power requirements and energy distribution. However, there are many challenges in the design of the SG communications network whereby the electrical appliances and smart meters are able to exchange information pertaining to varying power requirements. Furthermore, different types of M2M gateways are required at different points (e.g., at home, in the building, at the neighborhood, and so forth) of the SG communication network. This article surveys a number of existing communication technologies that can be adopted for M2M communication in SG. Among these, the most reliable technology to facilitate M2M communication in the SG home area network is pointed out, and its shortcoming is also noted. Furthermore, a possible solution to deal with this shortcoming to improve SG communications scalability is also presented.
TL;DR: In this article, a new methodology for examining the influences of occupant behavior on building energy consumption is proposed based on a basic data mining technique (cluster analysis), where min-max normalization is performed as a data preprocessing step before clustering.
TL;DR: Impaired autophagy stabilizes p62 and promotes tumorigenesis through activation of the Nrf2 transcription factor.
Abstract: Suppression of autophagy is always accompanied by marked accumulation of p62, a selective autophagy substrate. Because p62 interacts with the Nrf2-binding site on Keap1, which is a Cullin 3–based ubiquitin ligase adapter protein, autophagy deficiency causes competitive inhibition of the Nrf2–Keap1 interaction, resulting in stabilization of Nrf2 followed by transcriptional activation of Nrf2 target genes. Herein, we show that liver-specific autophagy-deficient mice harbor adenomas linked to both the formation of p62- and Keap1-positive cellular aggregates and induction of Nrf2 targets. Importantly, similar aggregates were identified in more than 25% of human hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC), and induction of Nrf2 target genes was recognized in most of these tumors. Gene targeting of p62 in an HCC cell line markedly abrogates the anchorage-independent growth, whereas forced expression of p62, but not a Keap1 interaction-defective mutant, resulted in recovery of the growth defect. These results indicate the involvement of persistent activation of Nrf2 through the accumulation of p62 in hepatoma development.
TL;DR: Laboratory analysis of samples returned from an asteroid establishes a direct link between asteroids and meteorites and provides clues to the complex history of the asteroid and its surface.
Abstract: The Hayabusa spacecraft successfully recovered dust particles from the surface of near-Earth asteroid 25143 Itokawa. Synchrotron-radiation x-ray diffraction and transmission and scanning electron microscope analyses indicate that the mineralogy and mineral chemistry of the Itokawa dust particles are identical to those of thermally metamorphosed LL chondrites, consistent with spectroscopic observations made from Earth and by the Hayabusa spacecraft. Our results directly demonstrate that ordinary chondrites, the most abundant meteorites found on Earth, come from S-type asteroids. Mineral chemistry indicates that the majority of regolith surface particles suffered long-term thermal annealing and subsequent impact shock, suggesting that Itokawa is an asteroid made of reassembled pieces of the interior portions of a once larger asteroid.
TL;DR: Predictive models of EGFR-mutant tumor behavior point to alternative drug dosing strategies to prevent and treat acquired resistance, and individual models based on the characteristics of diverse cancer cell types could offer clues for designing optimal treatment strategies.
Abstract: Non–small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs) that harbor mutations within the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene are sensitive to the tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) gefitinib and erlotinib. Unfortunately, all patients treated with these drugs will acquire resistance, most commonly as a result of a secondary mutation within EGFR (T790M). Because both drugs were developed to target wild-type EGFR, we hypothesized that current dosing schedules were not optimized for mutant EGFR or to prevent resistance. To investigate this further, we developed isogenic TKI-sensitive and TKI-resistant pairs of cell lines that mimic the behavior of human tumors. We determined that the drug-sensitive and drug-resistant EGFR-mutant cells exhibited differential growth kinetics, with the drug-resistant cells showing slower growth. We incorporated these data into evolutionary mathematical cancer models with constraints derived from clinical data sets. This modeling predicted alternative therapeutic strategies that could prolong the clinical benefit of TKIs against EGFR-mutant NSCLCs by delaying the development of resistance.
TL;DR: A new PrPSc amplification assay, called real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QUIC), which allows the detection of ≥1 fg ofPrPSc in diluted Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) brain homogenate, and indicates the promising enhanced diagnostic capacity of RT- QUIC in the antemortem evaluation of suspected CJD.
Abstract: Definitive diagnosis of prion disease currently requires postmortem brain tissue. Now, Ryuichiro Atarashi and colleagues have discovered an assay that can identify prions in human cerebrospinal fluid. This assay could allow for diagnosis of disease in living humans.
TL;DR: Effective methods to improve the static and dynamic strength while maintaining low Young's modulus for β-type titanium alloys used in biomedical applications are discussed.
Abstract: β-type titanium alloys with low Young's modulus are required to inhibit bone atrophy and enhance bone remodeling for implants used to substitute failed hard tissue. At the same time, these titanium alloys are required to have high static and dynamic strength. On the other hand, metallic biomaterials with variable Young's modulus are required to satisfy the needs of both patients and surgeons, namely, low and high Young's moduli, respectively. In this paper, we have discussed effective methods to improve the static and dynamic strength while maintaining low Young's modulus for β-type titanium alloys used in biomedical applications. Then, the advantage of low Young's modulus of β-type titanium alloys in biomedical applications has been discussed from the perspective of inhibiting bone atrophy and enhancing bone remodeling. Further, we have discussed the development of β-type titanium alloys with a self-adjusting Young's modulus for use in removable implants.
TL;DR: The currently accepted understanding of the molecular regulation of sporopollenin biosynthesis is reviewed and unanswered questions regarding the requirements underpinning proper exine pattern formation are examined, as based on genetic evidence.
Abstract: Pollen acts as a biological protector of male sperm and is covered by an outer cell wall polymer called the exine, which consists of durable sporopollenin. Despite the astonishingly divergent structure of the exine across taxa, the developmental processes of its formation surprisingly do not vary, which suggests the preservation of a common molecular mechanism. The precise molecular mechanisms underlying pollen exine patterning remain highly elusive, but they appear to be dependent on at least three major developmental processes: primexine formation, callose wall formation, and sporopollenin synthesis. Several lines of evidence suggest that the sporopollenin is built up via catalytic enzyme reactions in the tapetum, and both the primexine and callose wall provide an efficient substructure for sporopollenin deposition. Herein, we review the currently accepted understanding of the molecular regulation of sporopollenin biosynthesis and examine unanswered questions regarding the requirements underpinning proper exine pattern formation, as based on genetic evidence.
TL;DR: From the neutron diffraction study, it is anticipated that a relatively short-period (3-6 nm) noncoplanar spin structure is stabilized from the proper screw state in a magnetic field to produce the largest topological Hall response among the B20-type (FeSi-type) chiral magnets.
Abstract: We have observed an unconventional, likely topological, Hall effect over a wide temperature region in the magnetization process of a chiral-lattice helimagnet MnGe. The magnitude of the topological Hall resistivity is nearly temperature-independent below 70 K, which reflects the real-space fictitious magnetic field proportional to a geometric quantity (scalar spin chirality) of the underlying spin texture. From the neutron diffraction study, it is anticipated that a relatively short-period (3--6 nm) noncoplanar spin structure is stabilized from the proper screw state in a magnetic field to produce the largest topological Hall response among the B20-type (FeSi-type) chiral magnets.
TL;DR: In this paper, the inverse spin-Hall effect (ISHE) induced by the spin pumping has been investigated systematically in simple ferromagnetic/paramagnetic bilayer systems, and the spectral shape of the electromotive force is well reproduced using a simple Lorentz function, indicating that the force is due to the ISHE induced by spin pumping; extrinsic magnetogalvanic effects are eliminated in this measurement.
Abstract: The inverse spin-Hall effect (ISHE) induced by the spin pumping has been investigated systematically in simple ferromagnetic/paramagnetic bilayer systems. The spin pumping driven by ferromagnetic resonance injects a spin current into the paramagnetic layer, which gives rise to an electromotive force transverse to the spin current using the ISHE in the paramagnetic layer. In a Ni81Fe19/Pt film, we found an electromotive force perpendicular to the applied magnetic field at the ferromagnetic resonance condition. The spectral shape of the electromotive force is well reproduced using a simple Lorentz function, indicating that the electromotive force is due to the ISHE induced by the spin pumping; extrinsic magnetogalvanic effects are eliminated in this measurement. The electromotive force varies systematically by changing the microwave power, magnetic-field angle, and film size, being consistent with the prediction based on the Landau–Lifshitz–Gilbert equation combined with the models of the ISHE and spin pump...