In order to clarify the mechanism of mechanochemical polishing of SIC with CrzOj abrasive, 6H-wurtzite single-crystal specimens were dry-polished. A significant anisotropic polishing rate difference wss found between Si(OOO1) and C(OOO1) surfaces. The C(OOO1) surface was removed 10 times as fast. Polished surfaces were observed from cross-sectional and plan-view directions by high-voltage TEM. There was no trace of mechanical effects such as residual strain or scratches. The polishing debris was analyzed by X-ray diffraction, high-resolution TEM, and analytical TEM. No crystalline phases were identified from X-ray diffraction patterns except for Cr203, while it was found from TEM observation that a large amount of an amorphous phase consisting of Si, C, and 0 was contained in the debris. These results indicated that the surface of S i c was removed mechanochemically by the aid of a catalytic oxidation effect of Cr203. [

Aldosterone has been demonstrated to play an important role in the pathogenesis of various cardiovascular diseases. Vascular structural remodeling, including vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation, has been also reported in small resistance arteries of patients with primary aldosteronism. Therefore, in this study, we examined whether genes involved in the regulation of the cell cycle were induced by aldosterone alone in cultured human VSMCs and in human small resistance arteries. Results of these studies eventually demonstrated that MDM2, one of the genes involved in anti-apoptosis and cell growth, was markedly increased in mineralocorticoid receptor ( Aldosterone is a steroid hormone synthesized in the zona glomerulosa of human adrenal cortex as a result of stimulation by angiotensin II and others.

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Some parents of non-ambulatory children are not eager to allow their children to use powered wheelchairs because of apprehension of further deterioration of their functionality and the risk for accidents. The authors think that not all but some such children could develop their ability to operate powered wheelchairs and might expand their knowledge about the circumstances and interests in them. Thus we made a prototype cart for them eventually to experience motion by themselves. Based on a 6-wheeled chassis, the two middle wheels are driven with a traction roller drive system. We had been testing this prototype with a child with cerebral palsy for one year. Acquisition of skills in pushing switches and enjoyment of motion were confirmed. However, we encountered several problems such as difficulty in rolling on a carpet and in handling due to its weight. The ability to record moving speed and operation of input devices helps rehabilitation experts to conduct quantitative performance evaluation. To solve these problems, we manufactured another prototype. The second prototype was tested with another child with cerebral palsy for one year. The problems were solved. She acquired the operation skills necessary to operate the prototype with four switch operation.