An Algorithm for Finding Recurrence Relations of Binomial Sums and its Complexity

A new algorithm to find recurrence relations of binomial sums and a complexity analysis are given. The algorithm is based on the theory of hypergeometric functions and algorithmic method to get contiguity relations of hyperegeometric functions.     

Diagnosis method for live-wire insulation of high-voltage XLPE cables by DC superimposition

Recent preventive maintenance for equipment has grown to include diagnosis of the insulation of cables under hot-line conduction. Much of the equipment constructed during the high-growth period in the 1960s has become obsolete. Recent circumstances make it difficult to obtain a longer service interruption time. Results of a study of the method that measures the live-wire insulation resistance by superimposing dc 50 V to a high-voltage busbar through GPT and forms a bridge with the resistance of a cable insulation are discussed. It is clarified that this live-wire insulation diagnostic method is highly effective at detecting degradation of a cable insulation resistance and is, therefore, suitable for so-called trend monitoring as well.     

Theory and clinical application of functional MRI: 3D-functional brain mapping

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was performed using a clinical 1.5 T MR scanner. Normal volunteers and patients with several neurological disorders were studied with somatosensory stimulation using sponge at right hand and visual stimulation using checkerboard pattern. Both fMR images by gradient echo echo planar imaging and three dimensional gradient echo images were studied. Reconstructed 3 dimensional functional brain mapping was superimposed on 3D anatomical images. Apparent signal increase was observed at contra lateral sensorimotor cortex and secondary sensory cortex with sponge stimulation. In the case of left homonymous hemianopia due to cerebral infarction, increasing signal was only observed surrounding left calcarine fissure by using stimulation of all visual field. In conclusion, fMRI and 3-D functional brain mapping has extremely high potentiality to examine pathophysiology of various neurological disorders.     

Bone lesion in multiple myeloma--bone mineral density measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry in multiple myeloma]

The paper discusses some of the factors that affect the onset of osteoporosis, and provides an original model for rehabilitation procedure in this disorder. The type of motor exercises used are indicated, and the sequence in which they are done. There is also a discussion of the significance of the application of physiotherapy equipment. Attention is also drawn in the paper to the possibility of the patient applying rehabilitation procedures independently, under only periodic supervision by the physician.     

Efficient production of L‐lactic acid by Crabtree‐negative yeast Candida boidinii

Industrial production of L ‐lactic acid, which in polymerized form as poly‐lactic acid is widely used as a biodegradable plastic, has been attracting world‐wide attention. By genetic engineering we constructed a strain of the Crabtree‐negative yeast Candida boidinii that efficiently produced a large amount of L ‐lactic acid. The alcohol fermentation pathway of C. boidinii was altered by disruption of the PDC1 gene encoding pyruvate decarboxylase, resulting in an ethanol production that was reduced to 17% of the wild‐type strain. The alcohol fermentation pathway of the PDC1 deletion strain was then successfully utilized for the synthesis of L ‐lactic acid by placing the bovine L ‐lactate dehydrogenase‐encoding gene under the control of the PDC1 promoter by targeted integration. Optimizing the conditions for batch culture in a 5 l jar‐fermenter resulted in an L ‐lactic acid production reaching 85.9 g/l within 48 h. This productivity (1.79 g/l/h) is the highest thus far reported for L ‐lactic acid‐producing yeasts. DDBJ/EMBL/GenBank nucleotide database with Accession Nos. AB440630 and AB440631. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Process synthesis by task assignment

An approach by task assignment is presented to determine processing system structures in chemical process design. For given design conditions of major subsystems, which were specified by the results of basic or applied research, a basic flowsheet is determined by task assignments on energy recovery and material flow transportation. An illustrative example shows the usefulness of the present method.     

Legionella longbeachae pneumonia in a gardener

A 52-year-old male gardener, who traveled to Guam Island several days ago, was admitted to our hospital with fever, cough and dyspnea. His chest X-ray showed bilateral infiltration and he was severely hypoxic and hypotensive on admission. He died of multiple organ failure in spite of intensive treatment with mechanical ventilation antibiotics including erythromycin. Legionella longbeachae serotype 1 was isolated from his sputum and was regarded as the etiologic agent. Legionella longbeachae was not isolated from the same type of leaf mold that he used as potting soil. This is the first case of Legionella longbeachae pneumonia from whom the organism was isolated in Japan.