A multilayer ceramic capacitor (MLCC) is an electronic component consisting of alternating multilayer layers of internal electrodes connected in parallel and a ceramic dielectric. The internal electrode layer is produced by drying a coating layer of Ni powder-based paste.

As a smooth surface of the internal electrode layer increases the capacity of MLCCs, the film formation process of the coating layer of Ni paste with solvent evaporation was analyzed to understand the packing behavior of Ni particles during the drying process. As a result, it was found that an electrode layer with a smoother surface could be obtained when a larger amount of solvent evaporated at a constant rate till the end of the drying process. Furthermore, rheological analysis showed that the strong network structure formed by the Ni particles and resin in the Ni paste contributes to keep the drying rate constant throughout the drying process.

The quantification of “stickiness”, which is an important tactile sensation for cosmetics, was examined using the method of psycho-rheology. The ink-o-meter, the rolls of which were processed to make them suitable for measuring cosmetics, was used. The change curves of tack value during drying of cosmetics were compared with the scores of “stickiness” from the sensory tests. Correlations were obtained between the sensory evaluation scores and the peak values or the steady values, leading to drying, of the change curves, depending on the category of the cosmetics. The measurement was relatively simple, and resolution as well as reproducibility were enough, compared to those of the sensory tests.

It is important to use a suitable reaction field to control chemical reactions. There are various reaction fields, including organic solvents, each of which has an interesting function. Layered clay minerals are produced naturally and have been studied for a long time because of their unique structures and functions. However, few studies have focused on the flatness of their surfaces and used them as chemical reaction fields, making them a material with new possibilities in organic synthesis science. This paper reports our three research examples of unique chemical reactions occurring on the layered clay minerals.

This manuscript introduces a makeup finishing evaluation technique for assessing skin color and texture. Specifically, a deep neural network (DNN) trained with “skin patches” extracted from facial images was developed to evaluate makeup effects. The DNN was used to assess changes in makeup appearance due to various cosmetic actions, as well as to learn various skin evaluation criteria. The results showed that the DNN’s accuracy in discerning makeup presence exceeded that of visual assessments of the entire face, and there was a strong correlation between the DNN’s evaluation values and human visual assessments of makeup appearance. Additionally, the DNN demonstrated usefulness in evaluating changes in makeup appearance due to cosmetic actions, as well as in distinguishing skin age, discerning makeup product types, and assessing makeup application immediately after and sometime after application. Furthermore, the DNN successfully performed multidimensional analyses of skin texture, confirming the effectiveness of the proposed method.

Since the late 19th century, development of azo pigments has led to a variety of types, improving properties like weather resistance. Azo pigments, classified into soluble, insoluble, and condensed types, cover a wide range of colors, mainly yellow and red, including orange, brown, and blue. They find diverse applications due to their versatility in industries such as printing, textiles, and paints. This overview delves into synthesis processes, production trends, applications, and key azo pigments, also discussing chemical management perspectives for safety and sustainability considerations.