Associations between serum total bilirubin levels and functional dependence in the elderly

BACKGROUND

Many studies support the role of bilirubin as a cytoprotector in chronic inflammatory diseases, such as stroke and atherosclerosis.

AIM

To investigate the relationship between serum total bilirubin levels and functional dependence in older adults.

METHODS

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1999-2002) pertaining to 2235 old adults were analysed. All participants had given a household interview, providing information of five major domains on self-reported functional status (activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, leisure and social activities, lower extremity mobility and general physical activities), had completed serum total bilirubin measurement, and a questionnaire regarding personal health. Poor performance was defined as experiencing difficulty with one or more items in a given domain. Functional dependence was defined as having three or more poor performances in the five major domains. Multiple logistic regression was performed together with quartile-based stratified odds ratio (OR) comparison and trend tests.

RESULTS

The OR of functional dependence for each standard deviation increment in the serum total bilirubin level was 0.56 (P = 0.002). After additional adjustment, the inverse association remained essentially unchanged. In quartile-based analysis, participants with higher quartiles of serum total bilirubin tended to have lower ORs of functional dependence. The trends of lower likelihood of functional dependence across increasing quartiles of the serum total bilirubin level were statistically significant (P < 0.05 for all trends).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher serum total bilirubin levels were associated with lower likelihood of functional dependence in older adults.

Liquid chromatography: mass spectrometry of isoflavones

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or capillary electrophoresis (CE) is particularly suited to the separation and analysis of a wide range of biological compounds. When investigating such compounds in complex matrices (e.g., blood, tissue, urine, foods), specificity of the detection method becomes an important issue. This can be overcome by extensive purification procedures before HPLC or CE analysis, but at the cost of a lot of effort and often unknown losses during the extraction and purification procedures. Such losses can be overcome by the addition of isotopically labeled internal standards, subject to their availability. The coupling of HPLC or CE with mass spectrometry provides a very specific method of detection. Compounds are transferred as ions to the gas phase by two types of spraying technologies, electrospray ionization (ESI) and heated nebulizer-atmospheric pressure chemical ionization. Although the mass-to-charge ratios of the molecular ions can be used to provisionally identify a compound, full confirmation of structure requires collision-induced dissociation and analysis of the resulting fragment ions. Combination of specific parent ion-daughter ion pairs allows for the quantitative measurement of isoflavones in the 1-5 pmol range with coefficients of variation for duplicate samples in the range of 5-9%. CE places greater demands on the mass spectrometer than does HPLC, because it generates narrow peak widths. A mass spectrometer with a scanning quadrupole analyzer does not enable full exploitation of the power of CE; in this context, an instrument with an ESI interface and a time-of-flight analyzer is ideal.

Fabrication of ultrahigh density metal-cell-metal crossbar memory devices with only two cycles of lithography and dry-etch procedures

A novel approach to the fabrication of metal-cell-metal trilayer memory devices was demonstrated by using only two cycles of lithography and dry-etch procedures. The fabricated ultrahigh density crossbar devices can be scaled down to ≤70 nm in half-pitch without alignment issues. Depending on the different dry-etch mechanisms in transferring high and low density nanopatterns, suitable dry-etch angles and methods are studied for the transfer of high density nanopatterns. Some novel process methods have also been developed to eliminate the sidewall and other conversion obstacles for obtaining high density of uniform metallic nanopatterns. With these methods, ultrahigh density trilayer crossbar devices (~2 × 10(10) bit cm(-2)-kilobit electronic memory), which are composed of built-in practical magnetoresistive nanocells, have been achieved. This scalable process that we have developed provides the relevant industries with a cheap means to commercially fabricate three-dimensional high density metal-cell-metal nanodevices.

Neuroprotective effect of agmatine in rats with transient cerebral ischemia using MR imaging and histopathologic evaluation

PURPOSE

This study aimed to further investigate the effects of agmatine on brain edema in the rats with middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) injury using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) monitoring and biochemical and histopathologic evaluation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Following surgical induction of MCAO for 90min, agmatine was injected 5min after beginning of reperfusion and again once daily for the next 3 post-operative days. The events during ischemia and reperfusion were investigated by T2-weighted images (T2WI), serial diffusion-weighted images (DWI), calculated apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) maps and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted images (CE-T1WI) during 3h-72h in a 1.5T Siemens MAGNETON Avanto Scanner. Lesion volumes were analyzed in a blinded and randomized manner. Triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC), Nissl, and Evans Blue stainings were performed at the corresponding sections.

RESULTS

Increased lesion volumes derived from T2WI, DWI, ADC, CE-T1WI, and TTC all were noted at 3h and peaked at 24h-48h after MCAO injury. TTC-derived infarct volumes were not significantly different from the T2WI, DWI-, and CE-T1WI-derived lesion volumes at the last imaging time (72h) point except for significantly smaller ADC lesions in the MCAO model (P<0.05). Volumetric calculation based on TTC-derived infarct also correlated significantly stronger to volumetric calculation based on last imaging time point derived on T2WI, DWI or CE-T1WI than ADC (P<0.05). At the last imaging time point, a significant increase in Evans Blue extravasation and a significant decrease in Nissl-positive cells numbers were noted in the vehicle-treated MCAO injured animals. The lesion volumes derived from T2WI, DWI, CE-T1WI, and Evans blue extravasation as well as the reduced numbers of Nissl-positive cells were all significantly attenuated in the agmatine-treated rats compared with the control ischemia rats (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that agmatine has neuroprotective effects against brain edema on a reperfusion model after transient cerebral ischemia.

New Group IV chemical motifs for improved dielectric permittivity of polyethylene

An enhanced dielectric permittivity of polyethylene and related polymers, while not overly sacrificing their excellent insulating properties, is highly desirable for various electrical energy storage applications. In this computational study, we use density functional theory (DFT) in combination with modified group additivity based high throughput techniques to identify promising chemical motifs that can increase the dielectric permittivity of polyethylene. We consider isolated polyethylene chains and allow the CH2 units in the backbone to be replaced by a number of Group IV halides (viz., SiF2, SiCl2, GeF2, GeCl2, SnF2, or SnCl2 units) in a systematic, progressive, and exhaustive manner. The dielectric permittivity of the chemically modified polyethylene chains is determined by employing DFT computations in combination with the effective medium theory for a limited set of compositions and configurations. The underlying chemical trends in the DFT data are first rationalized in terms of various tabulated atomic properties of the constituent atoms. Next, by parametrizing a modified group contribution expansion using the DFT data set, we are able to predict the dielectric permittivity and bandgap of nearly 30,000 systems spanning a much larger part of the configurational and compositional space. Promising motifs which lead to simultaneously large dielectric constant and band gap in the modified polyethylene chains have been identified. Our theoretical work is expected to serve as a possible motivation for future experimental efforts.

Toxicity of melamine: the public health concern

Melamine contamination in food has resulted in sickness and deaths of human infants, pets, and farm animals in the past decade. The majority of the victims suffered from acute kidney injury, nephrolithiasis, and urolithiasis. Since then, animal studies have revealed the possible target organs of the melamine toxicity and the extent of the adverse effects of the contaminant. State-of-the-art analytical methods have been developed to achieve the "zero tolerance" aim for such economically motivated adulteration. These studies provide in-depth understanding of the melamine toxicity and promising analytical methods, which can help us safeguard our dairy food source.

Long-term disease-free survival in three ovarian cancer patients with a single relapse

Recurrent ovarian cancer with long-term survival is uncommon and often associated with poor prognosis. We report three cases of patients with advanced ovarian cancer who have achieved long-term disease-free survival following a single prior relapse. Case 1 relapsed with a localized bulky tumor and received a complete surgical resection and chemotherapy. Case 2 had a persistent central pelvic tumor after debulking surgery and second-line chemotherapy, and yet achieved excellent control with concurrent chemoradiation to the true pelvis. Case 3 relapsed with paraaortic lymph node metastasis and probable lung metastasis (subsequently negated by positron emission tomography) and received chemotherapy alone. These three patients have since remained disease-free for 13, 12, and seven years, respectively, since their first relapse. We conclude that select patients can obtain long-term disease-free survival after the first relapse by accurate restaging and aggressive multimodality treatment.

Ultrasound-guided minimally invasive surgery for achilles tendon rupture: preliminary results

BACKGROUND

Many surgeons prefer surgical repair for Achilles tendon ruptures in an attempt to reduce the risk of rerupture. To minimize wound complications, the use of minimally invasive surgery has become more popular recently. In line with this, the use of ultrasound to guide Achilles tendon repair is reported in this study.

METHODS

From March 2005 to January 2008, 23 patients with Achilles tendon rupture were repaired by the same surgeon. The ages of the patients ranged from 19 to 67 years old, with an average of 43 years old. The repair of the Achilles tendon was achieved through a stab wound under the guidance of ultrasonography. A control group consisted of 25 patients who received traditional open Achilles tendon repair.

RESULTS

The average operation time was 52 minutes, and the average wound size was 1.1 cm. The short leg cast was removed 4 weeks after the surgery, and serial casting was used for another 3 to 4 weeks. The postoperative AOFAS ankle-hindfoot scores were 98.7 in the experimental group, 96.5 in the control group with no significant difference. The rates of local infection, stiffness of the ankle, pain of the scar and sural nerve injury were better in the experimental group than in the control group with significant difference.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasound-guided surgery was a good choice due to its availability and real-time soft tissue visualization. It can further minimize the size of the surgical wound. Our method has the potential to achieve reliable results.

ACUTE AND SUBACUTE ORAL TOXICITY TESTS OF SINTERED DICALCIUM PYROPHOSPHATE ON OVARIECTOMIZED RATS FOR OSTEOPOROSIS TREATMENT

Sintered dicalcium pyrophosphate (SDCP) is a synthetic pyrophosphate analog that could be utilized in the treatment for osteoporosis. In this study, an ovariectomized rat model is used to evaluate the systematic toxicity of orally administered SDCP relative to its effects on bone mass. Ovariectomized Wistar rats were treated with experimental medication with different dosing strategies (0.5 mg/kg five days weekly, and 2.5 mg/kg once weekly) for once (acute oral toxicity test) and four weeks (subacute oral toxicity test) followed by recovery period. Clinical signs of toxicity, body weight, and food consumption of rats were recorded. Blood samples were collected for hematological and blood biochemical analyses. Rats were sacrificed for necropsy and major visceral organs were harvested for histological examination after the recovery period. Long bones of four limbs were harvested to evaluate the effects of SDCP on bone mass. Results showed that there was no change in clinical signs, body weight, food consumption, hematology, blood biochemistry, necropsy, and histological examination attributable to the oral administration with SDCP to rats during the dosing period and the recovery period. Analysis of bone ashes revealed that the ovariectomized rats ingested with 0.5 mg/kg SDCP five days weekly continually for four weeks increased bone mineral contents significantly. In the ovariectomized rats ingested with 2.5 mg/kg SDCP once weekly continually for four weeks, the bone mineral contents were increased to normal bone quality. This study indicates that the SDCP can increase bone mass in the ovariectomized rat with no deleterious effects.

Hemodynamics of portal venous stenosis before and after treatment in pediatric liver transplantation: evaluation with Doppler ultrasound

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate portal vein stenosis (PVS) in pediatric liver transplantation (PLT) using Doppler ultrasound (DUS) before and after interventional management for hemodynamic changes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From 2000 to 2010, we encountered 11 PVS cases among 180 PLT that were evaluated using DUS and computed tomography (CT) angiography (CTA); all underwent portal stenting. DUS was used to monitor portal hemodynamics. For the diagnosis of PVS, we investigated multiple parameters including stenotic size (SS), stenotic ratio (SR) (SR [%]=PRE-SS/PRE [PRE=stenotic size]), portal flow velocity ratio (VR) (VR=VS/PRE [PRE=velocity at prestenotic site; VS=peak velocity at stenotic site]), spleen size, and platelet count.

RESULTS

The incidence of PVS was 5.6% (11/180). The PV was 2.5 mm using DUS and 2.7 mm using CTA. The average SR was 65% fitting the criterion. Low prestenotic portal flow<12 cm/sec and high peak velocity in the stenotic segment (up to 147 cm/sec) were observed in 6 cases. The VR value was high at 7.5:1 and there was splenomegaly with thrombocytopenia. After portal vein stenting, hyperperfusion occurred might after reopening the stenosis: the flow increased to an average of 34 cm/sec and then flow decreased slowly to a stable level 2 weeks later. The size of the spleen decreased from 17 to 12 cm and the thrombocytopenia also improved with platelet counts increasing from 67×10(3) to 178×10(3)/μl at 2 months follow-up. The changes in portal flow, portal vein size, spleen size, and platelet count were significant (P<.05).

CONCLUSION

PVS is diagnosed using DUS by increased intrahepatic PV dilatation, peak flow at the stenotic site, discrepant VR. Early portal stenting showed a better prognosis. DUS is essential and effective for hemodynamic monitoring and management of PVS.

Potential reproductive toxicity of Largehead Atractylodes Rhizome, the most commonly used Chinese medicine for threatened miscarriage

BACKGROUND

Largehead Atractylodes Rhizome (LAR) is the most commonly used Chinese medicine to prevent early pregnancy loss due to threatened miscarriage. However, its safety profile during pregnancy is still not available. Here we aimed to identify the potential adverse effects of LAR on embryo-fetal development as well as prenatal and post-natal growth.

METHODS

Pregnant mice, rats and rabbits were orally administered with LAR extracts in various doses (from 1×, 2×, 3× and up to 6× clinical doses) at different gestational periods (implantation, gastrulation, organogenesis, maturation and whole gestation). Maternal effects on weight loss, implantation failure and fetal resorption and perinatal effects on developmental delay, growth restriction and congenital malformations were studied.

RESULTS

In mice, with early LAR exposure, a significant decrease in fetal growth parameters and a significant increase in post-implantation loss were identified. With late LAR exposure, significant increases in gestational duration as well as prenatal and post-natal mortality were found. At high clinical doses, congenital skeletal malformations were recorded. In rabbits, fetal resorption, hydrops fetalis and short ear anomaly were observed. No significant adverse effects were found in rats.

CONCLUSIONS

Potential reproductive toxicity of LAR in pregnant animals was identified within the clinical dose. Caution should be taken in clinical applications of LAR during pregnancy.

Cartilage regeneration in SCID mice using a highly organized three-dimensional alginate scaffold

Tissue engineering for cartilage regeneration provides an alternative to surgery for degenerative osteoarthritis. Recently, a highly organized three-dimensional (3D) alginate scaffold was prepared using a microfluidic device; this scaffold is effective for chondrocyte culture in vitro. The performance of this scaffold was further demonstrated; an alginate scaffold seeded with porcine chondrocytes was implanted in the dorsal subcutaneous site of SCID mice. The recipients were sacrificed at 2, 4, and 6 weeks after transplantation. The grafted implants retrieved from the subcutaneous site were analyzed with histologic examinations. Real-time PCR was used to identify the gene expression patterns of the chondrocytes. The hematoxylin and eosin staining showed that the chondrocytes survived normally in SCID mice; cartilage-like structures were formed after 4 weeks implantation. Immunohistochemical staining revealed cells secreted type II collagen, produced glycosaminoglycans (proved by alcian blue stain), and maintained the expression of S-100. On the other hand, the cells were negative for type I and type X collagen staining. PCR showed that the mRNA expressions of aggrecan and type II collagen were up-regulated at weeks two and four, while type I and type X collagen were down-regulated during the study period. In summary, this highly organized 3D alginate scaffold provided a suitable environment and maintained functional phenotypes for chondrocytes in this animal study.

A highly organized three-dimensional alginate scaffold for cartilage tissue engineering prepared by microfluidic technology

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease and frequently involves the knee, hip and phalangeal joints. Current treatments used in small cartilage defects including multiple drilling, abrasion arthroplasty, mosaicplasty, and autogenous chondrocyte transplantation, however, there are problems needed to be solved. The standard treatment for severe osteoarthritis is total joint arthroplasty. The disadvantages of this surgery are the possibility of implant loosening. Therefore, tissue engineering for cartilage regeneration has become a promising topic. We have developed a new method to produce a highly organized single polymer (alginate) scaffold using microfluidic device. Scanning electron microscope and confocal fluoroscope examinations showed that the scaffold has a regular interconnected porous structure in the scale of 250 μm and high porosity. The scaffold is effective in chondrocyte culture; the cell viability test (WST-1 assay), cell toxicity (lactate dehydrogenase assay), cell survival rate, extracellular matrix production (glycosaminoglycans contents), cell proliferation (DNA quantification), and gene expression (real-time PCR) all revealed good results for chondrocyte culture. The chondrocytes can maintain normal phenotypes, highly express aggrecan and type II collagen, and secrete a great deal of extracellular matrix when seeded in the alginate scaffold. This study demonstrated that a highly organized alginate scaffold can be prepared with an economical microfluidic device, and this scaffold is effective in cartilage tissue engineering.

Post-acute stroke patients use brain-computer interface to activate electrical stimulation

Through certain mental actions, our electroencephalogram (EEG) can be regulated to operate a brain-computer interface (BCI), which translates the EEG patterns into commands that can be used to operate devices such as prostheses. This allows paralyzed persons to gain direct brain control of the paretic limb, which could open up many possibilities for rehabilitative and assistive applications. When using a BCI neuroprosthesis in stroke, one question that has surfaced is whether stroke patients are able to produce a sufficient change in EEG that can be used as a control signal to operate a prosthesis.

Preparation and characterization of fouling-resistant composite membranes based on layer-by-layer self-assembly technique

This paper introduces a versatile approach for surface modification of 621-terylene filtration fabric (FF) self-assembled by a dynamic layer-by-layer technique. The hexadecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (HTAB) and cross-linked polyvinyl alcohol microspheres (PVA-MS) were alternatively deposited on support membrane under a pressure of 0.01 MPa to modify FF. Morphological changes and hydrophilicity of the modified FF were characterized in detail by scanning electron micrograph and water contact angle measurements. Results revealed that PVA-MS could be adsorbed mainly on the surface of FF and water contact angle decreased with the increase of HTAB/PVA-MS bilayer numbers indicating an enhanced hydrophilicity for the modified FF. Backwash experiments of the modified FF exhibited much higher stability of PVA-MS. Protein adsorption experiments were conducted to evaluate the antifouling property of the modified FF. Results indicated that protein adsorption of the membrane surface could be obviously improved by modification, which exhibited superior antifouling property of the modified FF.

Classical reflux symptoms, hiatus hernia and overweight independently predict pharyngeal acid exposure in patients with suspected reflux laryngitis

BACKGROUND

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has been associated with reflux laryngitis.

AIMS

To investigate the risk factors and the predictors of pharyngeal acid reflux (PAR) in Taiwanese patients with suspected reflux laryngitis.

METHODS

With referral from ENT physicians, 104 patients with symptoms and signs suggestive of reflux laryngitis completed a validated symptom questionnaire, an upper endoscopy exam and ambulatory 24-h pH tests with three sensors located at the hypopharynx, proximal and distal oesophagus. Patients with one or more episodes of PAR were considered abnormal.

RESULTS

Pharyngeal acid reflux was identified in 17% (18/104) of patients. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, PAR was independently associated with classical reflux symptoms [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 3.5, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.0-12.8], hiatus hernia (aOR = 6.7, 95% CI: 1.5-30.2) and overweight (aOR = 3.4, 95% CI: 1.0-11.0). In predicting PAR, classical reflux symptoms had a sensitivity of 78% and hiatus hernia had a specificity of 95%. With all three factors, the positive predictive value for PAR was 80%. Classical reflux symptoms included heartburn, chest pain, dyspepsia and acid regurgitation.

CONCLUSIONS

Classical reflux symptoms, hiatus hernia and overweight are independent risk factors that may predict pharyngeal acid reflux in patients with suspected reflux laryngitis.

Cloning and expression of three fatty acid desaturase genes from cold-sensitive lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus L.)

The critical chilling temperature of cold-sensitive lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus L.) seedlings was determined to be approx. 8°C. The full-length cDNAs of PlSAD, PlFAD2, and PlFAD3 encoding three fatty acid desaturases were isolated from lima bean leaves. The PlSAD open reading frame (ORF) had 1,317 bp and a single intron of 601 bp, encoding a polypeptide of 438 amino acids that showing 86% homology with the plastidial stearoyl-acyl carrier protein desaturase in soybean. The PlFAD2 ORF contained 1,059 bp and was uninterrupted, encoding a polypeptide of 352 amino acids having 85% identity with the microsomal omega-6 desaturase GmFAD2-3 in soybean. PlFAD3 ORF had 1,116 bp and seven introns, encoding a polypeptide of 371 amino acids showing 91% homology with the microsomal omega-3 desaturase FAD3 in cowpea. PlSAD and PlFAD2 were expressed highly in leaves but poorly in roots and stems, while PlFAD3 was expressed in three tissues. All three genes were significantly induced in leaves by drought. PlSAD and PlFAD3 in leaves were down-regulated by high temperature and salinity, whereas PlFAD2 was up-regulated by the two stresses. The expression patterns of the three genes in lima bean leaves under suboptimal temperature, 18°C, were different from those under 8°C. The down-regulation of PlSAD transcript at chilling temperature might be an important factor contributing to chilling susceptibility for lima bean plants.

Evaluation of anti-Wnt/β-catenin signaling agents by pGL4-TOP transfected stable cells with a luciferase reporter system

Refractory and relapsed leukemia is a major problem during cancer therapy, which is due to the aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Activation of this pathway is promoted by wingless (Wnt) proteins and induces co-activator β-catenin binding to lymphoid enhancer factor (LEF)/T-cell factor protein (TCF). To provide a convenient system for the screening of anti-Wnt/β-catenin agents, we designed a bi-functional pGL4-TOP reporter plasmid that contained 3X β-catenin/LEF/TCF binding sites and a selectable marker. After transfection and hygromycin B selection, HEK 293-TOP and Jurkat-TOP stable clones were established. The luciferase activity in the stable clone was enhanced by the recombinant Wnt-3A (rWnt-3A; 100-400 ng/mL) and GSK3β inhibitor (2'Z,3'E)-6-bromoindirubin-3'-oxime (BIO; 5 µM) but was inhibited by aspirin (5 mM). Using this reporter model, we found that norcantharidin (NCTD; 100 µM) reduced 80% of rWnt-3A-induced luciferase activity. Furthermore, 50 µM NCTD inhibited 38% of BIO-induced luciferase activity in Jurkat-TOP stable cells. Employing ³H-thymidine uptake assay and Western blot analysis, we confirmed that NCTD (50 µM) significantly inhibited proliferation of Jurkat cells by 64%, which are the dominant β-catenin signaling cells and decreased β-catenin protein in a concentration-dependent manner. Thus, we established a stable HEK 293-TOP clone and successfully used it to identify the Wnt/β-catenin signaling inhibitor NCTD.

Narrow-band imaging with magnifying endoscopy for the screening of esophageal cancer in patients with primary head and neck cancers

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIM

Although narrow-band imaging (NBI) in endoscopy can improve detection of early-stage esophageal malignancies in patients with head and neck cancers, false-positive results may be obtained in areas with nonspecific inflammatory changes. This study evaluated the feasibility of primary screening with NBI and magnification for the presence of esophageal malignancies in these cancer patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Sixty-nine patients with documented head and neck cancers were enrolled from April 2008 to January 2009. All patients underwent a meticulous endoscopic examination of the esophagus using a conventional white-light system followed by re-examination using the NBI system and final confirmation with NBI plus magnification.

RESULTS

Twenty-one patients (30.4 %) were confirmed to have esophageal neoplasia. Among these 21, 16 (76.2 %) had synchronous lesions, 9 (42.9 %) were asymptomatic, and 10 (47.6 %) had early-stage neoplasia. The incidence of multiple esophageal neoplasia was 57.1 %. NBI was more effective than conventional endoscopy in detecting neoplastic lesions (35 lesions in 21 patients vs. 22 lesions in 18 patients) and was particularly effective in patients with dysplasia (13 lesions in 9 patients vs. 3 lesions in 3 patients). The sensitivity and accuracy of detection were 62.9 % and 64.4 % for conventional endoscopy, 100 % and 86.7 % for NBI alone, and 100 % and 95.6 % for NBI with high magnification, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with current approaches, NBI followed by high magnification significantly increases the accuracy of detection of esophageal neoplasia in patients with head and neck cancers. The result warrants conducting prospective randomized controlled study to confirm its efficacy.

Biomechanical responses of different rat tendons to nandrolone decanoate and load exercise

Androgenic-anabolic steroids (AAS) have been associated with an increased incidence of tendon rupture. The aim of this study was to compare the biomechanical properties of the rat calcaneal tendon (CT), superficial flexor tendon (SFT), and deep flexor tendon (DFT), and to determine the effect of jump training in association with AAS. Animals were separated into four groups: sedentary, trained, AAS-treated sedentary rats (AAS), and AAS-treated and trained animals. Mechanical testing showed that the CT differed from the DFT and SFT, which showed similar mechanical properties. Jump caused the CT to exhibit an extended toe region, an increased resistance to tensional load, and a decreased elastic modulus, characteristics of an elastic tendon capable of storing energy. AAS caused the tendons to be less compliant, and the effects were reinforced by simultaneous training. The DFT was the most affected by training, AAS, and the interaction of both, likely because of its involvement in the toe-off step of jumping, which we suggest is related to the rapid transmission of force as opposed to energy storage. In conclusion, tendons are differently adapted to exercise, but responded equally to AAS, showing reduced flexibility, which is suggested to increase the risk of tendon rupture in AAS consumers.

First measurement of Bose-Einstein correlations in proton-proton collisions at √s=0.9 and 2.36 TeV at the LHC

Bose-Einstein correlations have been measured using samples of proton-proton collisions at 0.9 and 2.36 TeV center-of-mass energies, recorded by the CMS experiment at the CERN Large Hadron Collider. The signal is observed in the form of an enhancement of pairs of same-sign charged particles with small relative four-momentum. The size of the correlated particle emission region is seen to increase significantly with the particle multiplicity of the event.

Transverse-momentum and pseudorapidity distributions of charged hadrons in pp collisions at square root of s = 7 TeV

Charged-hadron transverse-momentum and pseudorapidity distributions in proton-proton collisions at square root of s = 7  TeV are measured with the inner tracking system of the CMS detector at the LHC. The charged-hadron yield is obtained by counting the number of reconstructed hits, hit pairs, and fully reconstructed charged-particle tracks. The combination of the three methods gives a charged-particle multiplicity per unit of pseudorapidity dN(ch)/dη|(|η|<0.5) = 5.78 ± 0.01(stat) ± 0.23(syst) for non-single-diffractive events, higher than predicted by commonly used models. The relative increase in charged-particle multiplicity from square root of s = 0.9 to 7 TeV is [66.1 ± 1.0(stat) ± 4.2(syst)]%. The mean transverse momentum is measured to be 0.545 ± 0.005(stat) ± 0.015(syst)  GeV/c. The results are compared with similar measurements at lower energies.

Effects of different inspired oxygen fractions on lipid peroxidation during general anaesthesia for elective Caesarean section

BACKGROUND

During general anaesthesia (GA) for Caesarean section (CS), fetal oxygenation is increased by administering an inspired oxygen fraction (Fi(o(2))) of 1.0. However, it is unclear whether such high Fi(o(2)) will increase oxygen free radical activity.

METHODS

We randomized 39 ASA I-II parturients undergoing elective CS under GA to receive 30% (Gp 30), 50% (Gp 50), or 100% (Gp 100) oxygen with nitrous oxide and sevoflurane adjusted to provide equivalent minimum alveolar concentration. Baseline maternal arterial blood before preoxygenation and maternal arterial, umbilical arterial and venous blood at delivery were sampled for assays of the by-product of lipid peroxidation, isoprostane, and for measurement of blood gases and oxygen content.

RESULTS

Maternal and umbilical isoprostane concentrations were similar among the three groups at delivery, despite significantly increased maternal and fetal oxygenation in Gp 100. However, paired comparisons of maternal delivery vs baseline concentration of isoprostane showed an increase at delivery for all groups [Gp 30: mean 342 (sd 210) vs 154 (65) pg ml(-1), P=0.016; Gp 50: 284 (129) vs 156 (79) pg ml(-1), P=0.009; Gp 100: 332 (126) vs 158 (68) pg ml(-1), P<0.001]. The magnitude of increase was similar in all three groups and independent of the Fi(o(2)) or duration after induction.

CONCLUSIONS

GA for CS is associated with a marked increase in free radical activity in the mother and baby. The mechanism is unclear but it is independent of the inspired oxygen in the anaesthetic mixture. Therefore, when 100% oxygen is administered with sevoflurane for GA, fetal oxygenation can be increased, without inducing an increase in lipid peroxidation.

Identification of hemopexin in tear film

Human tear fluid is a complex mixture of aqueous lipids, proteins, enzymes, and other biochemical and cellular elements. By conventional comparative proteomic approaches, we investigated the proteome in human tear fluid and compared the tear protein profile of normal control subjects with that of patients suffering from the ocular inflammatory disease vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC). Collected tear samples were directed to two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis protein separation and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry peptide identification. Six differentially expressed proteins-interleukin 4, phospholipase A2, albumin, lactoferrin, hemopexin, and lipocalin-were displayed. Hemopexin had not been reported previously in tear film. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay confirmed that hemopexin concentrations were significantly higher in VKC tear samples and increased with disease stages. The results implied clinical interest of hemopexin in the tear proteome and eye diseases.

Measurement of the differential branching fraction and forward-backward asymmetry for B --> K(*)l+l-

We study B --> K(*)l+l- decays (l = e, mu) based on a data sample of 657 x 10(6) BB pairs collected with the Belle detector at the KEKB e+e- collider. We report the differential branching fraction, isospin asymmetry, K* polarization, and the forward-backward asymmetry (A(FB)) as functions of q2 = M(ll)(2)c2. The fitted A(FB) spectrum exceeds the standard model expectation by 2.7 standard deviations. The measured branching fractions are B(B --> K*l+l-) = (10.7(-1.0)(+1.1) +/- 0.9) x 10(-7) and B(B --> Kl+l-) = (4.8(-0.4)(+0.5) +/- 0.3) x 10(-7), where the first errors are statistical and the second are systematic, with the muon to electron ratios R(K*) = 0.83 +/- 0.17 +/- 0.08 and R(K) = 1.03 +/- 0.19 +/- 0.06.

Observation of the doubly cabibbo-suppressed decay D_{s};{+}-->K;{+}K;{+}pi;{-}

We report the first observation of the doubly Cabibbo-suppressed decay D_{s};{+}-->K;{+}K;{+}pi;{-} using 605 fb;{-1} of data collected with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e;{+}e;{-} collider. The branching ratio with respect to its Cabibbo-favored counterpart B(D_{s};{+}-->K;{+}K;{+}pi;{-})/B(D_{s};{+}-->K;{+}K;{-}pi;{+}) is (0.229+/-0.028+/-0.012)%, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second is systematic. We also report a significantly improved measurement of the doubly Cabibbo-suppressed decay D;{+}-->K;{+}pi;{+}pi;{-}, with a branching ratio B(D;{+}-->K;{+}pi;{+}pi;{-})/B(D;{+}-->K;{-}pi;{+}pi;{+})=(0.569+/-0.018+/-0.014)%.

Adipose-derived stem cells from pregnant women show higher proliferation rate unrelated to estrogen

BACKGROUND

Adipose tissue contains an abundant population of multipotent adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) and has been an excellent source of mesenchymal stem cells for cell therapy and tissue engineering. To ensure successful cell therapies, consistency of stem cell performance across donors is critical. However, the effect of the donor's reproductive status on ASC proliferation rate and differentiation capacity is undefined.

METHODS

We investigated whether the yield and function of ASCs are affected by the woman's reproductive status: pregnancy, premenopause or menopause. ASCs were isolated from the abdomen of 15 women and their proliferation rates and differentiation capacities were compared by cell count. The capacity of ASCs to differentiate into the chondrogenic lineage was investigated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the differentiation capacity between the three groups, whereas the proliferation rate of ASCs from pregnant women was significantly higher than from the other two groups (P < 0.05). The proliferation rate of ASCs after estrogen treatment remained unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the higher proliferation rate in pregnant women, ASCs showed consistency in cell differentiation capacity and were unaffected by donor status. This suggests that factors other than estrogen are responsible for the difference in proliferation.

Measurement of the Decay B_(s);(0)-->D_(s);(-)pi;(+) and Evidence for B_(s);(0)-->D_(s);(-/+)K;(+/-) in e;(+)e;(-) Annihilation at sqrt[s] approximately 10.87 GeV

We have studied B_(s);(0)-->D_(s);(-)pi;(+) and B_(s);(0)-->D_(s);(-/+)K;(+/-) decays using 23.6 fb;(-1) of data collected at the Upsilon(5S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB e;(+)e;(-) collider. This highly pure B_(s);(0)-->D_(s);(-)pi;(+) sample is used to measure the branching fraction, B(B_(s);(0)-->D_(s);(-)pi;(+))=[3.67_(-0.33);(+0.35)(stat)-0.42+0.43(syst)+/-0.49(f_(s))]x10;(-3) (f_(s)=N_(B_(s);((*))B[over ]_(s);((*)))/N_(bb[over ])) and the fractions of B_(s);(0) event types at the Upsilon(5S) energy, in particular N_(B_(s);(*)B[over ]_(s);(*))/N_(B_(s);((*))B[over ]_(s);((*)))=(90.1_(-4.0);(+3.8)+/-0.2)%. We also determine the masses M(B_(s);(0))=(5364.4+/-1.3+/-0.7) MeV/c;(2) and M(B_(s);(*))=(5416.4+/-0.4+/-0.5) MeV/c;(2). In addition, we observe B_(s);(0)-->D_(s);(-/+)K;(+/-) decays with a significance of 3.5sigma and measure B(B_(s);(0)-->D_(s);(-/+)K;(+/-))=[2.4_(-1.0);(+1.2)(stat)+/-0.3(syst)+/-0.3(f_(s))]x10;(-4).

Acrylic acid removal from synthetic wastewater and industrial wastewater using Ralstonia solanacearum and Acidovorax avenae isolated from a wastewater treatment system manufactured with polyacrylonitrile fiber

Ralstonia solanacearum and Acidovorax avenae were isolated from a wastewater treatment system manufactured with polyacrylonitrile fiber. The investigation goal is to elucidate the effectiveness of Ralstonia solanacearum and Acidovorax avenae in treating acrylic acid from synthetic wastewater and industrial wastewater. The results reveal that Ralstonia solanacearum and Acidovorax avenae could utilize acrylic acid from synthetic wastewater for growth, when the initial acrylic acid concentration was below 1,009.1 mg/l and 1,383.4 mg/l, respectively. When the acrylic acid concentration was below 606.8 mg/l, the acrylic acid removal ability reached 96.7% and 100%, respectively. Both strains could tolerate acrylamide toxicity, but only Ralstonia solanacearum could tolerate acrylonitrile toxicity. Ralstonia solanacearum and Acidovorax avenae could utilize acrylic acid from industrial wastewater for growth, when the initial acrylic acid concentration was below 1,741.1 mg/l and 1,431.2 mg/l, respectively. When the acrylic acid concentration was below 690.8 mg/l, the acrylic acid removal efficiency reached 83.5% and 62.2%, respectively. Whether the acrylic acid existed in synthetic wastewater or in industrial wastewater, the removal efficiency of acrylic acid by Ralstonia solanacearum exceeded that by Acidovorax avena.

Anti-angiogenic effects of green tea catechin on an experimental endometriosis mouse model

BACKGROUND

The development of new blood vessels plays an essential role in growth and survival of endometriosis. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) from green tea has powerful anti-angiogenic properties and our aim was to evaluate these properties in experimental endometriosis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Eutopic endometrium from endometriosis patients was transplanted s.c. to severely compromised immunodeficient mice, randomly treated i.p. with EGCG (anti-angiogenic and -oxidant), Vitamin E (a non-angiogenic antioxidant) or saline for 2 weeks. The endometrial implant, including adjacent host outer skin and subcutaneous layers plus inner abdominal muscle and peritoneum, was collected. New microvessels were determined by species-specific immunohistochemistry. Angiogenic factors in lesions and abdominal muscle were detected by quantitative real-time PCR. Apoptosis was studied by terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labelling and quantitative real-time PCR. In saline control, endometrial implants developed new blood vessels with proliferating glandular epithelium and were tightly adhered to host subcutaneous and abdominal muscle layers. After EGCG, endometriotic lesions were smaller than control (P < 0.05), and glandular epithelium was smaller and eccentrically distributed. Angiogenesis in lesions from the implant and adjacent tissues was under-developed, and microvessel size and density were lower (both P < 0.01) than control. mRNA for angiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor A, but not hypoxia inducible factor 1, alpha subunit, was significantly down-regulated in lesions after EGCG (P < 0.05). In addition, apoptosis in the lesions was more obvious, and nuclear factor kappa B and mitogen activated protein kinase 1 mRNA levels were up-regulated (P < 0.05) after EGCG treatment. No differences were observed with Vitamin E treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

EGCG significantly inhibits the development of experimental endometriosis through anti-angiogenic effects.

Evidence for neutral B meson decays to omegaK*0

We present the results of a study of the charmless vector-vector decay B0-->omegaK*0 with 657 x 10(6) BB pairs collected with the Belle detector at the KEKB e+e- collider. We measure the branching fraction to be B(B0-->omegaK*0) = [1.8+/-0.7(stat)+/-0.3(syst)]x 10(-6) with 3.0sigma significance. We also perform a helicity analysis of the omega and K*0 vector mesons, and obtain the longitudinal polarization fraction fL(B0-->omegaK*0) = 0.56+/-0.29(stat) -0.08(+0.18)(syst). Finally, we measure a large nonresonant branching fraction B[B0-->omegaK+pi(-);M Kpi in(0.755,1.250) GeV/c2] = [5.1+/-0.7(stat)+/-0.7(syst)]x 10(-6) with a significance of 9.5sigma.

Supplementary oxygen for emergency Caesarean section under regional anaesthesia

BACKGROUND

Controversy still exists if the administration of supplementary oxygen to patients having emergency Caesarean section (CS) under regional anaesthesia is beneficial or potentially harmful. Therefore, in a prospective double-blinded study, we randomized patients having emergency CS under regional anaesthesia to receive either air or 60% oxygen until delivery and compared the effects on fetal oxygenation and lipid-peroxidation in the mother and baby.

METHODS

We recruited 131 women having emergency CS under regional anaesthesia. Either 21% (air group) or 60% oxygen (oxygen group) was administered using a Venturi-type facemask until delivery. We compared the oxygen exposure duration, umbilical arterial (UA) and venous (UV) blood gases and oxygen content, and plasma concentration of 8-isoprostane. Subanalysis was performed according to whether or not fetal compromise was considered present.

RESULTS

Data from 125 patients were analysed. For the oxygen group vs the air group, there were greater values for UA PO(2) [mean 2.2 (SD 0.5) vs 1.9 (0.6) kPa, P=0.01], UA O(2) content [6.6 (2.5) vs 4.9 (2.8) ml dl(-1), P=0.006], UV PO(2) [3.8 (0.8) vs 3.2 (0.8) kPa, P<0.0001], and UV O(2) content [12.9 (3.5) vs 10.4 (3.8) ml dl(-1), P=0.001]. There was no difference between the groups in maternal, UA, or UV 8-isoprostane concentration. Apgar scores and UA pH were similar between the groups. Similar changes were observed regardless of whether fetal compromise was considered present (n=37) or not (n=88).

CONCLUSIONS

Breathing 60% oxygen during emergency CS under regional anaesthesia increased fetal oxygenation with no associated increase in lipid-peroxidation in the mother or fetus.

Effects of nano-surface properties on initial osteoblast adhesion and Ca/P adsorption ability for titanium alloys

Titanium alloys (Ti6Al4V), while subjected to high temperature surface treatment, experience altered nano-surface characteristics. The effects of such surface treatments are examined, including the initial adhesion force experienced by osteoblasts, the Ca/P adsorption capability, and the nano-surface properties, including the amounts of amphoteric Ti-OH groups, surface topography, and surface roughness. The initial adhesion force is considered a quantitative indicator of cyto-compatibility in vitro. Previously, a cyto-detacher was applied in a pioneer attempt measuring the initial adhesion force of fibroblasts on a metal surface. Presently, the cyto-detacher is further applied to evaluate the initial adhesion force of osteoblasts. Results reveal that (1) titanium alloys subjected to heat treatment could promote the adsorption capability of Ca and P; (2) titanium alloys subjected to heat treatment could have higher initial osteoblast adhesion forces; (3) the adhesion strength of osteoblasts, ranging from 38.5 to 58.9 nN (nanonewtons), appears stronger for rougher surfaces. It is concluded that the heat treatment could have impacted the biocompatibility in terms of the initial osteoblast adhesion force and Ca/P adsorption capability.

FLT-PET imaging of radiation responses in murine tumors

BACKGROUND

3'-[F-18]fluoro-3'-deoxythymidine (FLT) traces thymidine phosphorylation catalyzed by thymidine kinase during cell proliferation. Knowing the rate of cell proliferation during cancer treatment, such as radiation therapy, would be valuable in assessing whether tumor recurrence is likely and might indicate the need for additional treatments. However, the relationship between FLT kinetics and the effects of radiation is not well-understood. Nor has the method for optimal quantification of FLT uptake within the irradiated tumor microenvironment been extensively examined.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed dynamic FLT-positron emission tomography (PET) studies (60 min) on 22 mice implanted subcutaneously with syngeneic mammary MCaK tumors bilaterally in the shoulder area. A day before the FLT-PET imaging, the tumor on the right side was irradiated with a single dose (0, 2.5, 5, 10, or 20 Gy) or with fractionated exposures (4x2.5 Gy given in 12 h intervals). Standardized uptake value (SUVs) of FLT on tumors at 10 and 60 min post injection were calculated; model fitting was used to estimate the kinetic parameters. Significant radiation-induced changes were shown by comparing the irradiated tumor with the control tumor in the same animal and by comparing it to nonirradiated mice. The effect of radiation on MCaK cell cycle parameters and FLT uptake was also examined in vitro.

RESULTS

In vivo FLT kinetics were sensitive to radiation doses of 5 Gy and higher (administered 1 day earlier), as judged by SUV semiquantitative measures and by modeling. Single irradiation with 10 Gy had greater impact on SUVs and kinetic parameters than fractionated exposures. Overall, the uptake constant Ki appeared to be the best marker for these radiation effects. FLT uptake by irradiated cells in vitro at various doses gave similar findings, and the in vitro FLT uptake correlated well with Ki. Radiation-induced G2/M arrest appeared to influence FLT uptake, and this was more pronounced after single than fractionated doses.

CONCLUSION

The kinetics of FLT uptake into murine mammary tumors was altered 1 day after radiation treatment. The dose-dependent response correlated well with in vitro FLT cellular uptake. Parameters (e.g., Ki) derived from FLT kinetics are expected to be useful for assessing the efficacy of irradiation treatment of tumors.

Search for B+-->D*+pi0 decay

We report on a search for the doubly Cabibbo suppressed decay B+-->D*+pi0, based on a data sample of 657x10(6) BB pairs collected at the Upsilon(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e+e- collider. We find no significant signal and set an upper limit of B(B+-->D*+pi0)<3.6x10(-6) at the 90% confidence level. This limit can be used to constrain the ratio between suppressed and favored B-->D*pi decay amplitudes, r<0.051, at the 90% confidence level.

Observation of B{0}-->ppK*0 with a large K*0 polarization

Using a 492 fb{-1} data sample collected near the Upsilon(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e{+}e{-} collider, we observe the decay B{0}-->ppK*0 with a branching fraction of (1.18{-0.25}{+0.29}(stat)+/-0.11(syst))x10{-6}. We study the decay dynamics of B{0}-->ppK*0 and compare with B{+}-->ppK*+. The K*0 meson is found to be almost 100% polarized (with a fraction of (101+/-13+/-3)% in the helicity zero state), while the K*+ meson has a (32+/-17+/-9)% fraction in the helicity zero state. The direct CP asymmetries for B{0}-->ppK*0 and B{+}-->ppK*+ are measured to be -0.08+/-0.20+/-0.02 and -0.01+/-0.19+/-0.02, respectively. In addition, we report improved measurements of the branching fractions B(B{+}-->ppK*+)=(3.38{-0.60}{+0.73}+/-0.39)x10{-6} and B(B{0}-->ppK{0})=(2.51{-0.29}{+0.35}+/-0.21)x10{-6}, which supersede our previous measurements.

Methods for increasing nitrile biotransformation into amides using Mesorhizobium sp

Nitriles are potential soil pollutants from industrial wastewater. There has been increased demand for efficient process for nitrile degradation process. Nitrile hydratase (NHase) has been extensively used in the production of acrylamide and treatment of organocyanide contaminated industrial effluents. The NHase of Mesorhizobium sp., isolated from polyacrylonitrile activated sludge from fiber manufacturing wastewater treatment systems was studied in the whole bacterial cells. Different chemicals were added to observe the variation in the percentage of acrylonitrile converted into acrylamide. The result indicated that cobalt ions were the NHase cofactor and could increase the NHase activity. The addition of propionaldehyde, or butyraldehyde could enhance the acrylonitrile conversion rate. Therefore, acrylamide could be accumulated effectively and the percentage of acrylonitrile converted into acrylamide increased. Propionaldehyde was the most effective NHase activator. The percentage of acrylonitrile converted into acrylamide was nearly 100% at 3.8 h when propionaldehyde was added at about 207.4 mg/l. The addition of benzaldehyde was unable to increase the percentage of acrylonitrile converted into acrylamide. EDTA and acrylamide showed no effect on NHase activity. However, 0.1 mg/l of Ag2SO4 would slightly inhibit NHase activity, producing an acrylonitrile conversion rate of 492.9 mg/l with 54.9% converted at 29.1 h. The ability of the acrylonitrile biotransformation was completely inhibited if the Ag2SO4 concentration was above 0.5 mg/l.

Observation of anomalous upsilon(1S)pi+pi(-) and upsilon(2S)pi+pi(-) production near the upsilon(5S) resonance

We report the first observation of e;{+}e;{-}-->Upsilon(1S)pi;{+}pi;{-}, Upsilon(2S)pi;{+}pi;{-}, and first evidence for e;{+}e;{-}-->Upsilon(3S)pi;{+}pi;{-}, Upsilon(1S)K+K-, near the peak of the Upsilon(5S) resonance at sqrt[s] approximately 10.87 GeV. The results are based on a data sample of 21.7 fb;{-1} collected with the Belle detector at the KEKB e;{+}e;{-} collider. Attributing the signals to the Upsilon(5S) resonance, the partial widths Gamma(Upsilon(5S)-->Upsilon(1S)pi;{+}pi;{-})=0.59+/-0.04(stat)+/-0.09(syst) MeV and Gamma(Upsilon(5S)-->Upsilon(2S)pi;{+}pi;{-})=0.85+/-0.07(stat)+/-0.16(syst) MeV are obtained from the observed cross sections. These values exceed by more than 2 orders of magnitude the previously measured partial widths for dipion transitions between lower Upsilon resonances.

Observation of a new DsJ meson in B+-->D0D0K+ decays

We report the observation of a new DsJ meson produced in B+-->D0DsJ-->D0D0K+. This state has a mass of M=2708+/-9(-10)(+11) MeV/c2, a width Gamma=108+/-23(-31)(+36) MeV/c2 and a 1- spin-parity. The statistical significance of this observation is 8.4 sigma. The results are based on an analysis of 449 x 10(6) BB events collected at the Upsilon(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e+e- collider.

Magnetoresistance behavior of ferromagnetic nanorings in a ring-wire hybrid configuration

We present a technique for probing the magnetic configurations in ferromagnetic rings electrically without placing the electrical contact leads directly on the nanorings, but on wires attached to the ring structures. The magnetic configurations in pseudo spin valve rectangular and elliptical rings of width in the range from 60 to 300 nm have been systematically mapped using this technique. The giant magnetoresistance (GMR) responses for both the rings exhibit distinct switching fields and features corresponding to identifiable magnetization states in different segments of the nanostructures.

Data compression by the recursive algorithm of exponential bidirectional associative memory

A novel data compression algorithm utilizing the histogram and the high-capacity exponential bidirectional associative memory (eBAM) is presented. Since eBAM has been proved to possess high capacity and fault tolerance, it is suitable to be utilized in the data compression using the table-lookup scheme. The histogram approach is employed to extract the feature vectors in the given data. The result of the simulation of the proposed algorithm turns out to be better than the traditional methods.

Time-dependent CP-violating asymmetry in B0-->rho0gamma decays

We report the first measurement of CP-violation parameters in B0-->rho0gamma decays based on a data sample of 657x10(6)BB pairs collected with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e+e- collider. We obtain the time-dependent and direct CP-violating parameters, Srho0gamma=-0.83+/-0.65(stat)+/-0.18(syst) and Arho0gamma=-0.44+/-0.49(stat)+/-0.14(syst), respectively.

Search for B --> h(*)nunu[over ] decays at Belle

We present a search for the rare decays B --> h(*)nunu[over ], where h(*) stands for a light meson. A data sample of 535 x 10{6} BB[over ] pairs collected with the Belle detector at the KEKB e{+}e{-} collider is used. Signal candidates are required to have an accompanying B meson fully reconstructed in a hadronic mode and signal side particles consistent with a single h(*) meson. No significant signal is observed and we set upper limits on the branching fractions at 90% confidence level. The limits on B{0} --> K{*0}nunu[over ] and B{+} --> K{+}nunu[over ] decays are more stringent than the previous constraints, while the first searches for B{0} --> K{0}nunu[over ], pi{0}nunu[over ], rho{0}nunu[over ], varphinunu[over ] and B{+} --> K{*+}nunu[over ], rho{+}nunu[over ] are reported.