Effects of Mold Growth on Building Materials by Different Environments in Taiwan

An Cheng,Yu Hsin,Wei-Ting Lin 대한토목학회 2014 KSCE Journal of Civil Engineering Vol.18 No.4

The main of study is to investigate the effect of moisture variation and micro-structure on the growth mold at surface of buildingmaterials. The two different water-cement ratio of mortars (w/c = 0.4, 0.6), brick and tiles were used in this study. The mercuryIntrusion Porosity-Meter (MIP) was used to determine the pore distribution of building materials. The moisture variation of materialswas recorded in constant climate chamber (25oC, relative humidity 80%), general indoor environment (28oC, relative humidity 55%)and water damage simulation environment. The results indicated that the pore size and distribution will affect the surface water ratioand moisture content of materials. The surface water ratio of specimen was affected by different environment seriously. The surfacewater ratio was an important factor in mold growth.

Identification of candidate odorant‐degrading enzyme genes in the antennal transcriptome of Aphidius gifuensis

Kang Zhi‐Wei,Liu Fang‐Hua,Xu Yong‐Yu,Cheng Jia‐Hui,Lin Xiao‐Li,Jing Xiang‐Feng,Tian Hong‐Gang,Liu Tong‐Xian 한국곤충학회 2021 Entomological Research Vol.51 No.1

Odorant‐degrading enzymes (ODEs) have been found in insect antennae and play a critical role in signal chemical degradation once the message is conveyed. Significant progress has been made in characterizing ODEs in a variety of pests but very little is known in their natural enemies. We have carried out an antennae‐ and sex‐specific transcriptome of Aphidius gifuensis, a natural enemy of aphid, to identify the candidate ODEs. Based on the antennae‐ and sex‐specific transcriptome, a total of 100 putative ODEs were identified including one aldehyde oxidase (AOX), four alcohol dehydrogenases (ADs), eight UDP‐glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs), 45 cytochrome P450 (P450s), nine glutathione S‐transferases (GSTs) and 40 carboxylesterases (CCEs or CXEs). Additionally, we used RT‐qPCR to determine the expression profiles of these genes in tissues of both sexes. Based on the phylogenic analysis and tissue‐expression patterns, AgifEstE4, AgifCXE3, AgifCCE4, AgifCCE7, and AgifCCE18 were suggested as key ODEs in A. gifuensis. In addition, the female or male specifically enriched genes, such as AgifCCE17, AgifEstB1, AgifCYP18a1, AgifUGT2C2, were also considered to involve in the chemosensory processing in A. gifuensis. This study not only identified the candidate ODEs in A. gifuensis but also provided source for further exploration of the molecular mechanisms of chemical signal transductions in A. gifuensis, as well as other hymenopteran species.

Full-space Cloud of Random Points with a Scrambling Metasurface

Li, Zile,Dai, Qi,Mehmood, Muhammad Q.,Hu, Guangwei,yanchuk, Boris Luk’,Tao, Jin,Hao, Chenglong,Kim, Inki,Jeong, Heonyeong,Zheng, Guoxing,Yu, Shaohua,Alù,, Andrea,Rho, Junsuk,Qiu, Cheng-Wei Nature Publishing Group UK 2018 Light, science & applications Vol.7 No.1

<▼1><P>With the rapid progress in computer science, including artificial intelligence, big data and cloud computing, full-space spot generation can be pivotal to many practical applications, such as facial recognition, motion detection, augmented reality, etc. These opportunities may be achieved by using diffractive optical elements (DOEs) or light detection and ranging (LIDAR). However, DOEs suffer from intrinsic limitations, such as demanding depth-controlled fabrication techniques, large thicknesses (more than the wavelength), Lambertian operation only in half space, etc. LIDAR nevertheless relies on complex and bulky scanning systems, which hinders the miniaturization of the spot generator. Here, inspired by a Lambertian scatterer, we report a Hermitian-conjugate metasurface scrambling the incident light to a cloud of random points in full space with compressed information density, functioning in both transmission and reflection spaces. Over 4044 random spots are experimentally observed in the entire space, covering angles at nearly 90°. Our scrambling metasurface is made of amorphous silicon with a uniform subwavelength height, a nearly continuous phase coverage, a lightweight, flexible design, and low-heat dissipation. Thus, it may be mass produced by and integrated into existing semiconductor foundry designs. Our work opens important directions for emerging 3D recognition sensors, such as motion sensing, facial recognition, and other applications.</P></▼1><▼2><P><B>Metasurfaces: scrambling light for 3D detection and recognition</B></P><P>Firing light at a manufactured 'metasurface'—one carrying patterns at a smaller scale than the wavelength of the light—fills large volumes of space with defined points of light, potentially improving 3-D recognition and sensor applications. Cheng-Wei Qui and colleagues at the National University of Singapore, with co-workers across Asia and in the USA, created their unique metasurface from amorphous silicon. Light is scattered from and transmitted through the material to generate a cloud of data points in the surrounding space in which the structure and motion of objects under study can be analyzed. The initial development work with this “scrambling metasurface” suggests it could improve pattern recognition, including face recognition, motion detection and augmented reality applications. The researchers describe how their innovation overcomes significant limitations of existing methods in these fields.</P></▼2>

Palliative Care for Adult Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis in Asia: Challenges and Opportunities

Wei-Min Chu,Hung-Bin Tsai,Yu-Chi Chen,Kuan-Yu Hung,Shao-Yi Cheng,Cheng-Pei Lin 한국호스피스완화의료학회 2024 한국호스피스.완화의료학회지 Vol.27 No.1

This article underscores the importance of integrating comprehensive palliative care for noncancer patients who are undergoing hemodialysis, with an emphasis on the aging populations in Asian nations such as Taiwan, Japan, the Republic of Korea, and China. As the global demographic landscape shifts towards an aging society and healthcare continues to advance, a marked increase has been observed in patients undergoing hemodialysis who require palliative care. This necessitates an immediate paradigm shift to incorporate this care, addressing the intricate physical, psychosocial, and spiritual challenges faced by these individuals and their families. Numerous challenges impede the provision of effective palliative care, including difficulties in prognosis, delayed referrals, cultural misconceptions, lack of clinician confidence, and insufficient collaboration among healthcare professionals. The article proposes potential solutions, such as targeted training for clinicians, the use of telemedicine to facilitate shared decision-making, and the introduction of time-limited trials for dialysis to overcome these obstacles. The integration of palliative care into routine renal treatment and the promotion of transparent communication among healthcare professionals represent key strategies to enhance the quality of life and end-of-life care for people on hemodialysis. By embracing innovative strategies and fostering collaboration, healthcare providers can deliver more patient-centered, holistic care that meets the complex needs of seriously ill patients within an aging population undergoing hemodialysis.

Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Magnetic Properties of a Mn(III)-radical Complex

Cheng, Wei-Qin,Zhang, Li-Fang,Ni, Zhong-Hai,Kou, Hui-Zhong Korean Chemical Society 2013 Bulletin of the Korean Chemical Society Vol.34 No.7

Experimental Study on Sustained-release 5-Fluorouracil Implantation in Canine Peritoneum and Para-aortic Abdominalis

Wei, Guo,Nie, Ming-Ming,Shen, Xiao-Jun,Xue, Xu-Chao,Ma, Li-Ye,Du, Cheng-Hui,Wang, Shi-Liang,Bi, Jian-Wei Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention 2014 Asian Pacific journal of cancer prevention Vol.15 No.1

Objective: To observe local and systemic toxicity after sustained-release 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) implantation in canine peritoneum and para-aortic abdominalis and the changes of drug concentration in the local implanted tissue with time. Methods: 300 mg sustained-release 5-Fu was implanted into canine peritoneum and para-aorta abdominalis. Samples were taken 3, 5, 7 and 10 days after implantation for assessment of changes and systemic reactions. High performance liquid chromatography was applied to detect the drug concentrations of peritoneal tissue at different distances from the implanted site, lymphatic tissue of para-aortic abdominalis, peripheral blood and portal venous blood. Results: 10 days after implantation, the drug concentrations in the peritoneum, lymphatic tissue and portal vein remained relatively high within 5 cm of the implanted site. There appeared inflammatory reaction in the local implanted tissue, but no visible pathological changes such as cell degeneration and necrosis, and systemic reaction like anorexia, nausea, vomiting and fever. Conclusions: Sustained-release 5-Fu implantation in canine peritoneum and para-aortic abdominalis can maintain a relatively high tumour-inhibiting concentration for a longer time in the local implanted area and portal vein, and has mild local and systemic reactions. Besides, it is safe and effective to prevent or treat recurrence of gastrointestinal tumours and liver metastasis.

Statistical Optimization of Medium Components for Milk-Clotting Enzyme Production by Bacillus amyloliquefaciens D4 Using Wheat Bran-an Agro-Industry Waste

( Wei Bing Zhang ),( Xiao Ling He ),( Hong Na Liu ),( Hui Yuan Guo ),( Fa Zheng Ren ),( Wei Dong Gao ),( Peng Cheng Wen ) 한국미생물 · 생명공학회 2013 Journal of microbiology and biotechnology Vol.23 No.8

In this paper, two statistical methods were applied to optimize medium components to improve the production of the milk-clotting enzyme by Bacillus amyloliquefaciens D4. First, wheat bran juice, skim milk powder, and Na2HPO4 were shown to have significant effects on D4 enzyme production using the Plackett?Burman experimental design. Subsequently, an optimal medium was obtained using the Box?Behnken method, which consisted of 3.31 g/l of skim milk powder, 5.0 g/l of sucrose, 0.1 g/l of FeSO4?7H2O, 0.1 g/l of MgSO4?7H2O, 0.1 g/l of MnSO4?2H2O, 0.1 g/l of ZnSO4?7H2O, 1.52 g/l of Na2HPO4, and 172.45 g/l of wheat bran juice. With this optimal medium, the milk-clotting enzyme production was remarkably enhanced. The milk-clotting enzyme activity reached 3,326.7 SU/ml after incubation of 48 h, which was 1.76-fold higher than that of the basic medium, showing that the Plackett?Burman design and Box?Behnken response surface method are effective to optimize medium components, and B. amyloliquefaciens D4 possessed a high rennet-producing capacity in the optimal medium.

Characterization and Cofactor Binding Mechanism of a Novel NAD(P)H-Dependent Aldehyde Reductase from Klebsiella pneumoniae DSM2026

( Cheng Wei Ma ),( Le Zhang ),( Jian Ying Dai ),( Zhi Long Xiu ) 한국미생물 · 생명공학회 2013 Journal of microbiology and biotechnology Vol.23 No.12

During the fermentative production of 1,3-propanediol under high substrate concentrations, accumulation of intracellular 3-hydroxypropionaldehyde will cause premature cessation of cell growth and glycerol consumption. Discovery of oxidoreductases that can convert 3- hydroxypropionaldehyde to 1,3-propanediol using NADPH as cofactor could serve as a solution to this problem. In this paper, the yqhD gene from Klebsiella pneumoniae DSM2026, which was found encoding an aldehyde reductase (KpAR), was cloned and characterized. KpAR showed broad substrate specificity under physiological direction, whereas no catalytic activity was detected in the oxidation direction, and both NADPH and NADH can be utilized as cofactors. The cofactor binding mechanism was then investigated employing homology modeling and molecular dynamics simulations. Hydrogen-bond analysis showed that the hydrogen-bond interactions between KpAR and NADPH are much stronger than that for NADH. Free-energy decomposition dedicated that residues Gly37 to Val41 contribute most to the cofactor preference through polar interactions. In conclusion, this work provides a novel aldehyde reductase that has potential applications in the development of novel genetically engineered strains in the 1,3-propanediol industry, and gives a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in cofactor binding.

Synthesis of 2-Substituted-6-(4H-1,2,4-triazol-4-yl)benzo[d]oxazoles as Potential Anticonvulsant Agents

Cheng-Xi Wei,Li-Ping Guan,Jing-Hao Jia,채규윤,Zhe-Shan Quan 대한약학회 2009 Archives of Pharmacal Research Vol.32 No.1

A series of 2-substituted-6-(4H-1,2,4-triazol-4-yl)benzo[d]oxazoles were synthesized. The anticonvulsant effect and neurotoxicity of the compounds (intraperitoneally) were evaluated with the maximal electroshock (MES) test, subcutaneous pentylenetetrazole (sc-PTZ), and rotarod tests in mice. 2-Phenyl- 6- (4H-1,2,4-triazol-4-yl)benzo[d]oxazole (3g) was the most active and also had the lowest toxicity. In the anti-MES potency test, it showed median effective dose (ED50) of 29.5 mg/kg, a median toxicity dose (TD50) of 285 mg/kg, and a protective index (PI) of 9.7, which is greater than the reference drug, carbamazepine, which has a PI of 6.4.

公元11-14世纪敦煌壁画与欧洲宗教绘画的形式语言比较研究

cheng wei 한국동양예술학회 2019 동양예술 Vol.45 No.-

本人以公元11-14世纪敦煌壁画与欧洲宗教绘画的历史背景为前提,从浅到深,探讨并举例说明了两种不同文化背景下宗教古典艺术产物的形式语言的异同,以现代美学的基本审美标准,观察分析经典之作并作了详细的分析。 敦煌壁画与欧洲宗教绘画的最大共同点在于画师的热忱与他们对于创作专注的精神。对于严格的宗教信仰来说,神的形象与装饰纹样都是被严密的宗教教义所管制,这也就是为什么宗教的绘画往往会更多地成为经典,广泛流传。文化是一个大熔炉,起源与汇聚,交流与分斥,无论是东方还是西方总会有文化的一致性与差异性。在两大宗教的元素中也多有体现。 本文所选的历史时期正是欧洲中世纪的谢幕前夕,此时人文主义思想处于萌芽初期的。在同一时刻,敦煌地区也处于了经济的稳定时期,西夏王朝与中国北宋并列割据王权,虽为外朝,但西夏王朝并不排斥汉文化。伴随着蒙古军队的入侵欧洲,西夏与西域的文化与经济交流也更加密切。所以在文化层面上敦煌地区也得到了平稳发展与吸收。 本文共分为五个章节。第一个章节交代了两者所处的历史背景。第二章提出敦煌壁画与欧洲宗教绘画的异同性,第三章通过现代美学的审美,对两者的装饰元素与绘画形式排列结构秩序的异同表现进行对比,最后第四章提出上述对比分析对现代艺术教学的影响与价值,并在第五章进行总结。希望通过本文,读者能在这个特定的人文主义萌芽时期,看到宗教绘画的严谨与艺术向人文主义的转变,并得到启发。