Mannose-binding lectin gene-2 polymorphisms and serum mannose-binding lectin levels in Behçet's disease

OBJECTIVE

Behçet's disease (BD) is an autoimmune disease with an unknown etiology and mannose-binding lectin (MBL) is a pattern recognition receptor in the innate immune system, which is associated with some autoimmune diseases. We investigated MBL2 gene polymorphisms and serum MBL levels in BD patients and controls.

METHODS

MBL2 gene polymorphisms in exon 1 (MBL2 54 Gly/Asp, (A/B)), promoter (MBL2 H/L (G-550C), MBL2 Y/X (G-221C)), and 5' UTR region (MBL2 P/Q (C+4T)) were investigated using polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism in 119 BD patients and 252 healthy controls. Serum MBL levels were measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay in 49 BD patients and 102 sex-/genotype-matched controls.

RESULTS

No significant difference was found between BD patients and controls in terms of MBL2 polymorphisms and MBL serum levels. However, the presence of genital ulcer and neurologic involvement were found to be associated with MBL2 54 allele A (OR=2.415, OR=6.632, respectively). Eye involvement was found to be related to the presence of the MBL2 54 AA or AB genotypes (OR=12.46), MBL2-G-550C allele H (OR=1.829). High serum MBL level (> or =500 ng/ml) was associated with skin lesions (p=0.002).

CONCLUSION

The frequencies of the four MBL2 genetic polymorphisms examined were not different in BD patients and healthy controls. However, the presence of genital ulcer, eye involvement, and neuro-Behcet's disease were found to be associated with MBL2 polymorphisms that are associated with the production of high levels of MBL or functional MBL.

Type 2 diabetes-associated genetic variants discovered in the recent genome-wide association studies are related to gestational diabetes mellitus in the Korean population

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

New genetic variants associated with susceptibility to type 2 diabetes mellitus have been discovered in recent genome-wide association (GWA) studies. The aim of the present study was to examine the association between these diabetogenic variants and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

METHODS

The study included 869 Korean women with GDM and 345 female and 287 male Korean non-diabetic controls. We genotyped the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs7756992 and rs7754840 in CDKAL1; rs564398, rs1333040, rs10757278 and rs10811661 in the CDKN2A-CDKN2B region; rs8050136 in FTO; rs1111875, rs5015480 and rs7923837 in HHEX; rs4402960 in IGF2BP2; and rs13266634 in SLC30A8. In addition, rs7903146 and rs12255372 in TCF7L2; rs5215 and rs5219 in KCNJ11; and rs3856806 and rs1801282 in PPARG were genotyped. The genotype frequencies in the GDM patients were compared with those in the non-diabetic controls.

RESULTS

Compared with controls (men and women combined), GDM was associated with rs7756992 and rs7754840 (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.34-1.79, p = 4.17 x 10(-9)) in CDKAL1; rs10811661 (OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.29-1.72, p = 1.05 x 10(-7)) in the CDKN2A-CDKN2B region; rs1111875 (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.09-1.49, p = 0.003), rs5015480, and rs7923837 in HHEX; rs4402960 (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.01-1.38, p = 0.03) in IGF2BP2; rs13266634 (OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.07-1.43, p = 0.005) in SLC30A8; and rs7903146 (OR 1.58, 95% CI 1.03-2.43, p = 0.038) in TCF7L2. The risk alleles of the SNPs rs7756992 and rs7754840 in CDKAL1; rs10811661 in the CDKN2A-CDKN2B region; and rs1111875, rs5015480 and rs7923837 in HHEX were associated with significant decreases in the insulin AUC during a 100 g OGTT performed at the time of diagnosis of GDM.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Some of the type 2 diabetes-associated genetic variants that were discovered in the recent GWA studies are also associated with GDM in Koreans.

The retinoblastoma gene Rb and its family member p130 suppress lung adenocarcinoma induced by oncogenic K-Ras

Mutations of the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor gene RB are frequently observed in human cancers, but rarely in non-small cell lung carcinomas (NSCLCs). Emerging evidence also suggests that the RB-related gene p130 is inactivated in a subset of human NSCLCs. To directly test the specific tumor suppressor roles of RB and p130 in NSCLC, we crossed Rb and p130 conditional mutant mice to mice carrying a conditional oncogenic K-Ras allele. In this model, controlled oncogenic K-Ras activation leads to the development of adenocarcinoma, a major subtype of NSCLC. We found that loss of p130 accelerated the death of mice, providing direct evidence in vivo that p130 is a tumor suppressor gene, albeit a weak one in this context. Loss of Rb increased the efficiency of lung cancer initiation and resulted in the development of high-grade adenocarcinomas and rapid death. Thus, despite the low frequency of RB mutations in human NSCLCs and reports that K-Ras activation and loss of RB function are rarely found in the same human tumors, loss of Rb clearly cooperates with activation of oncogenic K-Ras in lung adenocarcinoma development in mice.

Measurement of the time-dependent CP asymmetries in B0-->K(S)(0)rho(0)gamma decays

We report the first measurement of time-dependent CP asymmetry in B(0)-->K(S)(0)rho(0)gamma decays based on 657 x 10(6) BB pairs collected with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy collider. We measure the CP-violating parameter S_{K_{S};{0}rho;{0}gamma}=0.11+/-0.33(stat)-0.09+0.05(syst) from a signal of 212+/-17 events. We also obtain the effective direct CP-violating parameter A{eff}=0.05+/-0.18(stat)+/-0.06(syst) for mK(S)0pi+pi- <1.8 GeV/c(2) and 0.6 GeV/c(2)<m pi+pi- <0.9 GeV/c2.

Clinical and genetic analysis of Korean patients with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy

Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) is an autosomal dominantly inherited muscular disorder, which is characterized by weakness of facial, shoulder and hip girdle, humeral, and anterior distal leg muscles. The FSHD gene has been mapped to 4q35 and a deletion of integral copies of a 3.3-kb DNA repeat motif named D4Z4 was known to be the genetic background of the disorder. Although FSHD is the second most common muscular dystrophy in adulthood, there were few reports on the genetically confirmed patients in Korea. Recently, we experienced four Korean patients with clinical features resembling FSHD. In order to confirm the diagnosis, conventional Southern blot (SB) analysis by using double digestion with EcoRI and BlnI and hybridization with p13E-11 probe was performed in three patients and newly developed long polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method was used for one patient because genomic DNA was not enough for conventional SB for this patient. All patients were demonstrated to have shortened D4Z4 repeats that were consistent with FSHD. Therefore, we could confirm the diagnosis of FSHD in four Korean patients and appropriate genetic counseling was done for the patients and their families. It is of note that long-PCR method could be a good alternative for conventional SB when D4Z4 repeats were less than 5.

Measurement of branching fractions, isospin, and CP-violating asymmetries for exclusive b-->dgamma modes

We report new measurements of the decays B+-->rho+gamma, B0-->rho0gamma, and B0-->omegagamma using a data sample of 657x10(6) B meson pairs accumulated with the Belle detector at the KEKB e+e- collider. We measure branching fractions B(B+-->rho+gamma)=(8.7_-2.7-1.1;+2.9+0.9)x10(-7), B(B0-->rho0gamma)=(7.8_-1.6-1.0;+1.7+0.9)x10(-7), and B(B0-->omegagamma)=(4.0_-1.7;+1.9+/-1.3)x10(-7). We also report the isospin asymmetry Delta(rhogamma)=-0.48_-0.19-0.09;+0.21+0.08 and the first measurement of the direct CP-violating asymmetry ACP(B+-->rho+gamma)=-0.11+/-0.32+/-0.09, where the first and second errors are statistical and systematic, respectively.

Subharmonic gap structure of normal-state conductance and thermoelectric effect in a graphene-based nano device

Using the quantum transport of chiral Dirac fermions in graphene, we investigate the normal-state conductance and thermoelectric effect of a nano device under the ballistic superconductor-graphene-superconductor (SGS) model. Because of the Josephson effect and Andreev reflections, there exists an oscillatory behavior of the normal-state conductance flowing through the successive discrete energy levels on a finite-sized graphene contacted to the superconducting leads. The normal-state conductance displays a rich structure of subharmonic gaps controlled by means of a gate voltage on the discrete energy levels near the Fermi energy. Since the Fermi energy is an essential factor in determining the nature of conduction such as n or p type, we study the thermoelectric effect over the graphene-based nano device. It is shown that the thermoelectric effect can provide information on the location of the Fermi energy with respect to the energy levels of the finite-sized graphene.

Inhibitory NKG2A and activating NKG2D and NKG2C natural killer cell receptor genes: susceptibility for rheumatoid arthritis

The inhibitory (NKG2A) and activating (NKG2D and NKG2C) natural killer (NK) cell receptors are expressed on a subset of NK and T cells. They regulate the innate and adaptive immune systems related to cytotoxicity and cytokine production that are involved in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The role of inhibitory and activating NK cell receptor genes might contribute to chronic inflammation and destruction of bone and cartilage in RA. Therefore, we investigated the association of the NKG2A, NKG2C, and NKG2D genotypes with RA. NKG2A (KLRC1) NKG2C (KLRC2), and NKG2D (KLRK1, D12S249E) genes were genotyped in 210 unrelated patients with RA and 298 controls using a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. We further investigated the relationships between the genotypes of each single nucleotide polymorphism and the presence of rheumatoid factor (RF), antinuclear antibody (ANA), and bony erosions in RA patients. The major NKG2A c.338-90*A/*A, NKG2C102*Ser/*Ser, and NKG2D72*Ala/*Ala genotypes in RA were significantly associated compared with controls [P = 0.013, odds ratio (OR) = 0.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.44-0.91; P < 0.0001, OR = 2.1, 95% CI = 1.44-2.96; and P = 0.019, OR = 0.6, 95% CI = 0.45-0.93, respectively]. The minor NKG2A c.338-90*G/*G, NKG2C102*Phe/*Phe, and NKG2D72*Thr/*Thr genotypes showed a risk of RA (P = 0.010, OR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.17-3.54; P < 0.0001, OR = 0.2, 95% CI = 0.12-0.48; and P = 0.032, OR = 2.3, 95% CI = 1.05-5.01, respectively) compared with controls. No significance was observed between the inhibitory (NKG2A) or activating (NKG2C and NKG2D) receptor genotypes and the presence of RF, ANA, or bony erosions in RA.

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.

Measurement of B(Ds{+}-->mu+nu(mu))

We present a measurement of the branching fraction B(D{s}{+}-->mu{+}nu{mu}) using a 548 fb{-1} data sample collected by the Belle experiment at the KEKB e{+}e{-} collider. The D{s} momentum is determined by reconstruction of the system recoiling against DKgammaX in events of the type e{+}e{-}-->D{s}{*}DKX, D{s}{*}-->D{s}gamma, where X represents additional pions or photons from fragmentation. This full-reconstruction method provides high resolution in the neutrino momentum and thus good background separation, equivalent to that achieved by experiments at the tau-charm factories. We obtain the branching fraction B(D{s}{+}-->mu{+}nu{mu})=[6.44+/-0.76(stat)+/-0.57(syst)]x10{-3}, implying a D{s} decay constant of f{D{s}}=[275+/-16(stat)+/-12(syst)] MeV.

The effect of lidocaine on remifentanil-induced cough

This study was performed to investigate the incidence of remifentanil-induced cough and evaluate the efficacy of lidocaine on its prevention. Five-hundred patients, aged 18-70 years, were randomly allocated into two groups to receive either lidocaine 0.5 mg x kg(-1) or 0.9% normal saline intravenously 1 min before remifentanil administration at a target effect-site concentration of 4 ng x ml(-1). Any episode of cough was classified as coughing and graded as mild (1-2), moderate (3-4) or severe (5 or more). We found that the overall incidence of cough was significantly higher in the saline group (69 patients; 27.6%) than that in the lidocaine group (38 patients; 15.2%) (p < 0.001). The results of logistic regression indicated that age and smoking were associated with remifentanil-induced cough. This study demonstrated that intravenously administered lidocaine 0.5 mg x kg(-1) effectively suppresses remifentanil-induced cough without possible systemic lidocaine toxicity.

A mitochondrial DNA variant at position 16189 is associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Asians

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

This multinational study was conducted to investigate the association between a mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) T16189C polymorphism and type 2 diabetes in Asians. The mtDNA 16189C variant has been reported to be associated with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. However, a recent meta-analysis concluded that it is negatively associated with type 2 diabetes in Europids. Since the phenotype of an mtDNA mutant may be influenced by environmental factors and ethnic differences in the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes, we investigated the association between the 16189C variant and type 2 diabetes in Asians.

METHODS

The presence of the mtDNA 16189C variant was determined in 2,469 patients with type 2 diabetes and 1,205 non-diabetic individuals from Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong and China. An additional meta-analysis including previously published Asian studies was performed. Since mtDNA nucleotide position 16189 is very close to the mtDNA origin of replication, we performed DNA-linked affinity chromatography and reverse-phase liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry and chromatin immunoprecipitation to identify protein bound to the 16189 region.

RESULTS

Analysis of participants from five Asian countries confirmed the association between the 16189C variant and type 2 diabetes [odds ratio (OR) 1.256, 95% CI 1.08-1.46, p=0.003]. Inclusion of data from three previously published Asian studies (type 2 diabetes n=3,283, controls n=2,176) in a meta-analysis showed similar results (OR 1.335, 95% CI 1.18-1.51, p=0.000003). Mitochondrial single-stranded DNA-binding protein (mtSSB) was identified as a candidate protein bound to the 16189 region. Chromatin immunoprecipitation in cybrid cells showed that mtSSB has a lower binding affinity for the 16189C variant than the wild-type sequence.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

The mtDNA 16189C variant is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in Asians.

Changes in metabolic syndrome of Korean children and adolescents in the period 1998 to 2001

The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence and pattern of metabolic syndrome in children and adolescents in the interval between the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (KNHANES) in 1998 and 2001. Two nationwide surveys (KNHANES) were conducted in Korea in 1998 and 2001. A stratified multistage probability sampling design was used to ensure representation of the entire Korean population. The National Cholesterol Education Program-Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP-ATP III)-derived definition was used for the definition of metabolic syndrome. A total of 1763 (mean age+/-SD of 14.6+/-2.8 yr) and 1245 (14.1+/-2.8 yr) Korean children and adolescents in the age range 10-19 yr participated in the studies of 1998 and 2001, respectively. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in male children and adolescents increased significantly from 5.7% in 1998 to 9.0% in 2001. However, there was no increase in females (5.1% in 1998 and 4.9% in 2001). Of the 5 components of metabolic syndrome, low HDL-cholesterolemia showed the highest increase in males and females during the 3 yr. Hypertriglyceridemia increased next in both genders. In contrast, the proportion of female subjects meeting the fasting glucose criterion decreased over the same period. As dyslipidemia was the principal contributor to the increase in metabolic syndrome in Korean male children and adolescents during the 3 yr, a strategy of dietary pattern change and the encouragement of physical activity should be introduced to these groups at a national level.

Observation of B_(s)(0)-->phigamma and search for B_(s)(0)-->gammagamma decays at Belle

We search for the radiative penguin decays B_{s}{0}-->varphigamma and B_{s}{0}-->gammagamma in a 23.6 fb{-1} data sample collected at the Upsilon(5S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB e{+}e{-} asymmetric-energy collider. We observe for the first time a radiative penguin decay of the B_{s}{0} meson in the B_{s}{0}-->varphigamma mode and we measure B(B_{s}{0}-->varphigamma)=(57_{-15}{+18}(stat)-11+12(syst))x10{-6}. No significant B_{s}{0}-->gammagamma signal is observed and we set a 90% confidence level upper limit of B(B_{s}{0}-->gammagamma)<8.7x10{-6}.

Measurement of time-dependent CP-violating parameters in B(0)-->K_(S)(0)K_(S)(0) decays

We report a measurement of the CP-violating parameters in B;{0}-->K_{S}{0}K_{S}{0} decays based on a data sample of 657x10{6} BB[over ] pairs collected at the Upsilon(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e;{+}e{-} collider. In this Letter, one neutral B meson is fully reconstructed in the B;{0}-->K_{S}{0}K_{S}{0} decay mode, and the flavor of the accompanying B meson is identified by its decay products. The CP-violating parameters are measured from the asymmetry in the distributions of the proper-time interval between the two B decays: S_K_{S}{0}K_{S}{0}}=-0.38_{-0.77}{+0.69}(stat)+/-0.09(syst) and A_{K_{S}{0}K_{S}{0}}=-0.38+/-0.38(stat)+/-0.05(syst).

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 the psi(4415)-->DD2*(2460) decay using initial-state radiation

We report measurements of the exclusive cross section for e(+)e(-)-->D(0)D(-)pi(+) over the center-of-mass energy range 4.0 GeV to 5.0 GeV with initial-state radiation and the first observation of the decay psi(4415)-->D(0)D(-)pi(+). From a study of the resonant substructure in psi(4415) decay we conclude that the psi(4415)-->D(0)D(-)pi(+) decay is dominated by psi(4415)-->DD(2)(*)(2460). We obtain B(psi(4415)-->D(0)D(-)pi(nonresonant)(+))/B(psi(4415)-->DD(2)(*)(2460)-->D(0)D(-)pi(+))<0.22 at 90% C.L. The analysis is based on a data sample collected with the Belle detector with an integrated luminosity of 673 fb(-1).

Association of polymorphisms in the insulin-degrading enzyme gene with type 2 diabetes in the Korean population

Insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) is a metalloproteinase which degrades insulin and terminates its action. Homologous deletion of IDE gene resulted in hyperinsulinemia and glucose intolerance in a rat model of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Several genetic association studies examined IDE as a susceptibility gene for type 2 diabetes in European descents. Here we investigated the genetic association of IDE polymorphisms with the risk of type 2 diabetes and its related phenotypes in the Korean population. Among six single nucleotide polymorphisms analyzed, g.-179T>C (OR=1.73, P=0.04), and g.IVS18+99G>A (OR=1.23, P=0.02) revealed borderline association with increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Combining our results with previous data obtained from the European population, g.-179T>C (OR=1.11, P=0.03), and g.IVS24-64A>T (OR=1.18, P=0.005) showed significant association with type 2 diabetes. Haplotype consisting of common alleles of the six polymorphisms was associated with decreased risk of type 2 diabetes (OR=0.82, P=0.02). However, none of the polymorphisms was significantly associated with metabolic phenotypes. We can conclude that variations in IDE might contribute to diabetes susceptibility in the Korean population.

Epidermal growth factor increases insulin secretion and lowers blood glucose in diabetic mice

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is synthesized in the pancreas and diabetic animals have low levels of EGF. However, the role of EGF in regulating the major function of the pancreas, insulin secretion, has not been studied. Here, we show that EGF rapidly increased insulin secretion in mouse pancreatic islets, as well as in a pancreatic β-cell line. These events were dependent on a Ca²⁺ influx and phospholipase D (PLD) activity, particularly PLD2, as determined using pharmacological blockers and molecular manipulations such as over-expression and siRNA of PLD isozymes. In addition, EGF also increased plasma insulin levels and mediated glucose lowering in normal and diabetic mice. Here, for the first time, we provide evidence that EGF is a novel secretagogue that regulates plasma glucose levels and a candidate for the development of therapeutics for diabetes.

Idiopathic spinal cord herniation as a treatable cause of progressive brown-sequard syndrome

Idiopathic spinal cord herniation is a rare spinal cord disorder caused by spinal cord prolapse through a adural defect. It is a curable disease, so early detection is of particular importance. We report a 38-year-old woman with Brown-Sequard syndrome which was caused by the thoracic spinal cord herniation. Her weakness was almost completely resolved after surgical management, which emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and surgical management in this rare disease entity.

Relation between cognitive dysfunction and reduced vital capacity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Many patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) with cognitive impairment have fronto-temporal dysfunction. Whereas in some patients with ALS the fronto-temporal dysfunction is undoubtedly due to the degenerative process associated with the disease, in others dysfunction cannot be accounted for by an irreversible degenerative process alone, as it also appears to involve a reversible process. We hypothesised that reduced vital capacity can be a key contributor to the fronto-temporal dysfunction observed in patients with ALS.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between fronto-temporal dysfunction and reduced vital capacity in ALS.

METHODS

16 consecutive patients who conformed to a diagnosis of definite or probable ALS (El escorial criteria) were grouped by vital capacity, and their clinical characteristics and cognitive functions, including disease duration, attention, executive function and memory, were measured.

RESULTS

Patients with a reduced vital capacity performed significantly poorer in memory retention (p = 0.028), retrieval efficacy (p = 0.003), spoken verbal fluency (p = 0.03) and spoken verbal fluency indexes (p = 0.016) than those with a normal vital capacity.

CONCLUSION

The fronto-temporal dysfunction in ALS might be attributable to potentially reversible secondary effects associated with reduced vital capacity, as well as to the primary degenerative process.

Autosomal dominant centronuclear myopathy with unique clinical presentations

Centronuclear myopathies are clinically and genetically heterogenous diseases with common histological findings, namely, centrally located nuclei in muscle fibers with a predominance and hypotrophy of type 1 fibers. We describe two cases from one family with autosomal dominant centronuclear myopathy with unusual clinical features that had initially suggested distal myopathy. Clinically, the patients presented with muscle weakness and atrophy localized mainly to the posterior compartment of the distal lower extremities. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed predominant atrophy and fatty changes of bilateral gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. This report demonstrates the expanding clinical heterogeneity of autosomal dominant centronuclear myopathy.

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.

Observation of B(0)-->D(*-)tau(+)nu(tau) decay at Belle

We report an observation of the decay B{0}-->D{*-}tau{+}nu{tau} in a data sample containing 535x10{6} BB pairs collected with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e{+}e{-} collider. We find a signal with a significance of 5.2sigma and measure the branching fraction B(B{0}-->D{*-}tau{+}nu{tau})=(2.02{-0.37}{+0.40}(stat)+/-0.37(syst))%. This is the first observation of an exclusive B decay with a b-->ctaunu{tau} transition.

Measurement of the e+e- -->pi+pi- J/psi cross section via initial-state radiation at Belle

The cross section for e(+)e(-)-->pi(+)pi(-)J/psi between 3.8 and 5.5 GeV/c(2) is measured using a 548 fb(-1) data sample collected on or near the Upsilon(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at KEKB. A peak near 4.25 GeV/c(2), corresponding to the so called Y(4260), is observed. In addition, there is another cluster of events at around 4.05 GeV/c(2). A fit using two interfering Breit-Wigner shapes describes the data better than one that uses only the Y(4260), especially for the lower-mass side of the 4.25 GeV enhancement.

Spin-polarized current of a transistor in single Mn12 molecular magnets

Focusing on the framework of how to realize the molecular spintronics in a single molecular magnet, we present theoretical studies on the spin-polarized quantum transport behavior through a single Mn12 molecular magnet. Our theoretical results were obtained by carrying out density functional theoretical calculation within the Keldysh nonequilibrium Green function formalism. The ultimate goal of the molecular spintronics is to develop single molecule transistors which generate spin-polarized currents through the molecular magnet. We obtained the density of states, the transmission coefficients and the characteristic features of the current-voltage (I-V) on the spin-polarized transport properties of Mn12 by the theoretical calculation. These results show the possibility for the realization of molecular spintroinics using single molecular magnets.

Fulminant type 1 diabetes in Korea: high prevalence among patients with adult-onset type 1 diabetes

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of fulminant type 1 diabetes and the clinical characteristics of the disease among newly diagnosed Korean patients.

METHODS

Using data retrieved from the Seoul National University Hospital database, we identified all patients newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes from 1 January 1999 to 31 July 2006. Information on clinical manifestations and laboratory data, including the presence of islet autoantibodies detected at diagnosis, were obtained by reviewing medical records.

RESULTS

We identified 99 patients newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Seven patients (7.1%) fulfilled the criteria for fulminant type 1 diabetes. Among the patients aged > or =18 years at onset, 30.4% had fulminant type 1 diabetes. Patients with this diabetes subtype tested negative for islet autoantibodies, had a higher age of onset (median 28 vs 10 years, p < 0.001) and a markedly shorter duration from onset of hyperglycaemic symptoms to first hospital visit (median 3 vs 30 days, p < 0.001) than patients with non-fulminant type 1 diabetes, and showed trends of increased serum aspartate aminotransferase and amylase levels and a decreased glucagon-stimulated serum C-peptide response.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

In Korea, the prevalence of fulminant type 1 diabetes was 7.1% among all patients newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and 30.4% among patients with adult-onset diabetes. The clinical and metabolic characteristics of the patients with fulminant type 1 diabetes were similar to those reported in Japanese studies.

Observation of two resonant structures in e+ e- -->pi+ pi- psi(2S) via initial-state radiation at Belle

The cross section for e+ e- --> pi+ pi- psi(2S) between threshold and sqrt[s]=5.5 GeV is measured using 673 fb(-1) of data on and off the Upsilon(4S) resonance collected with the Belle detector at KEKB. Two resonant structures are observed in the pi+ pi- psi(2S) invariant-mass distribution, one at 4361 +/- 9 +/- 9 MeV/c2 with a width of 74 +/- 15 +/- 10 MeV/c2, and another at 4664 +/- 11 +/- 5 MeV/c2 with a width of 48 +/- 15 +/- 3 MeV/c2, if the mass spectrum is parametrized with the coherent sum of two Breit-Wigner functions. These values do not match those of any of the known charmonium states.

Statistical MUNE: a comparison of two methods of setting recording windows in healthy subjects and ALS patients

OBJECTIVE

To address the issue as to how best to perform statistical MUNE, we applied two different approaches and compared results in healthy subjects and ALS patients.

METHODS

Twelve normal subjects (women 8, mean age 52years) and 11 ALS patients (women 4, mean age 54years) underwent two consecutive MUNE studies, which differed in terms of setting and modifying the recording window. These are referred to as the 'expansion' and 'narrowing' methods, respectively. Size-weighted average (Av) SMUP and MUNE values were obtained using the two methods, and compared in control and patient groups.

RESULTS

Expansion method-derived Av SMUP sizes and MUNE values differed only slightly from those obtained using the narrowing method in healthy subjects, whereas the narrowing method resulted in significantly larger Av SMUP sizes and smaller MUNE values than the expansion method in ALS patients (Wilcoxon signed ranks test, p=0.003). The sizes of tested areas (mean+/-SD) were significantly larger for the narrowing method than the expansion method in both subject groups with much greater difference in ALS patients; 9.6+/-3.1% vs. 7.9+/-1.7% in healthy subjects and 16.1+/-5.1% vs. 11.2+/-3.0% in ALS patients (Student t-test, p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study shows, unlike that found in normal subjects, that the results of statistical MUNE in ALS patients are heavily dependent on the approach used to set and modify recording windows.

SIGNIFICANCE

The expansion method using a 10%-sized window is likely to suffer from systemic errors due to the ceiling effect and the sampling of artifactually small motor units in ALS patients. The authors recommend that the narrowing method be considered as an alternative that avoids these problems.

Association of CD94/NKG2A, CD94/NKG2C, and its ligand HLA-E polymorphisms with Behcet's disease

Inhibitory CD94/NKG2A and activating CD94/NKG2C receptors are expressed on natural killer, CD4, and CD8 T cells and recognize human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-E, resulting in the modulation of cytotoxic activity and cytokine production. An imbalance in cytotoxic activity and cytokine production has been implicated in Behcet's disease (BD). The results of this study showed that the NKG2A c.-4258*C, c.338-90*G, and CD94 c.-134*T alleles (P= 0.015, OR = 0.8; P < 0.0001, OR = 0.5; and P= 0.034, OR = 0.8, respectively) were associated with decreased risk and that NKG2A c.284-67_-62del, c.1077*C, and the activating receptor, NKG2C c.305*T were not associated with 345 patients with BD. But a significant difference in NKG2C c.305*T was detected among BD patients with ocular lesions and arthritis (P < 0.0001, OR = 2.1 and P= 0.0001, OR = 1.8, respectively). We already showed in our previous research that HLA-E*0101 also appears to contribute to a reduction in risk through the inhibitory CD94/NKG2A-mediated immune response. This result led us to the analyses of the combined risk of the HLA-E and the NKG2A for BD. Individuals harboring HLA-E*0101, NKG2A c.-4258*C, and c.338-90*G evidenced a reduced risk of BD compared with healthy controls (21.1% vs 40.1%, P < 0.0001, OR = 0.4). By way of contrast, individuals without the HLA-E*0101, NKG2A c.-4258*C, and c.338-90*G alleles evidenced a twofold increased risk of BD (P= 0.014, OR = 2.0). Individuals without HLA-E*0101, NKG2A c.-4258*G/*G, and c.338-90*G evidenced a 4.8-fold increase in BD risk (P= 0.0002, OR = 4.8). Although the effects of these single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) remain unclear, our results indicate that the SNPs of the inhibitory receptor CD94/NKG2A and its haplotypes, as well as its ligand HLA-E, are associated with BD immune systems.

Crossover clinical trial to determine the effect of manual acupuncture at Siguan points (bilateral LI4 and LR3) on intestinal motility in healthy subjects

This study examined whether manual acupuncture at the Siguan points (bilateral points LI4 and LR3) affects intestinal motility in healthy human subjects. Twenty healthy male subjects were randomly assigned either to real acupuncture (RA) at Siguan points or sham acupuncture (SA) groups in a crossover manner. All subjects underwent two experimental sessions; the RA group in the first session was treated with SA in the second session after a 2-week washout period, and vice versa. Each subject took 20 radio-markers and was treated with acupuncture 0, 12, 24, and 36 hours after radio-marker intake. Radiographs were taken at 6, 12.5, 24.5, and 48 hours, and the effect of acupuncture on intestinal motility was evaluated based on the distribution of the radio-markers in the ileum, ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, sigmoid/ rectum, and outside the body. Defecating habit was monitored during the trial, and complete blood counts were checked before and after the two acupuncture sessions. The RA and SA results showed extremely similar distributions of the radio-markers in these five regions of the alimentary canal and outside the body in radiographs taken at four different times, verifying that there was no effect of manual acupuncture at the Siguan points on intestinal motility, at least in healthy human subjects.

Measurement of the tau lepton mass and an upper limit on the mass difference between tau+ and tau-

The mass of the tau lepton has been measured in the decay mode tau-->3pinutau using a pseudomass technique. The result obtained from 414 fb-1 of data collected with the Belle detector is Mtau=[1776.61+/-0.13(stat)+/-0.35(sys)] MeV/c2. The upper limit on the relative mass difference between positive and negative tau leptons is |Mtau+-Mtau-|/Mtau<2.8 x 10-4 at 90% confidence level.

Experimental constraints on the spin and parity of the Lambdac(2880)+

We report the results of several studies of the Lambda(c)(+)pi(+)pi(-)X final state in continuum e(+)e(-) annihilation data collected by the Belle detector. An analysis of angular distributions in Lambda(c)(2880)(+)-->Sigma(c)(2455)(0,++)pi(+,-) decays strongly favors a Lambda(c)(2880)(+) spin assignment of 5/2 over 3/2 or 1/2. We find evidence for Lambda(c)(2880)(+)-->Sigma(c)(2520)(0,++)pi(+,-) decay and measure the ratio of Lambda(c)(2880)(+) partial widths Gamma(Sigma(c)(2520)pi)/Gamma(Sigma(c)(2455)pi)=0.225+/-0.062+/-0.025. This value favors the Lambda(c)(2880)(+) spin-parity assignment of 5/2(+) over 5/2(-). We also report the first observation of Lambda(c)(2940)(+)-->Sigma(c)(2455)(0,++)pi(+,-) decay and measure Lambda(c)(2880)(+) and Lambda(c)(2940)(+) mass and width parameters. These studies are based on a 553 fb(-1) data sample collected at or near the Upsilon(4S) resonance at the KEKB collider.

A system for ubiquitous health monitoring in the bedroom via a Bluetooth network and wireless LAN

Advances in information technology have enabled ubiquitous health monitoring at home, which is particularly useful for patients, who have to live alone. We have focused on the automatic and unobtrusive measurement of biomedical signals and activities of patients. We have constructed wireless communication networks in order to transfer data. The networks consist of Bluetooth and Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). In this paper, we present the concept of a ubiquitous-Bedroom (u-Bedroom) which is a part of a ubiquitous-House (u-House) and we present our systems for ubiquitous health monitoring.

Measurement of CP asymmetry in a time-dependent Dalitz analysis of B0-->(rhopi)0 and a constraint on the quark mixing matrix angle phi2

We present a measurement of CP asymmetry using a time-dependent Dalitz plot analysis of B0-->pi+pi-pi0 decays based on a 414 fb(-1) data sample containing 449 x 10(6) BB pairs. The data was collected on the Upsilon(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric energy e+ e- collider. Combining our analysis with information on charged B decay modes, we perform a full Dalitz and isospin analysis and obtain a constraint on the CKM angle phi2, 68 degrees < phi2 < 95 degrees as the 68.3% confidence interval for the phi2 solution consistent with the standard model (SM). A large SM-disfavored region also remains.

Observation of B decays to two kaons

Using 449x10(6) BB[over ] pairs collected with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e(+)e(-) collider, we observe clear signals for B(+)-->K[over ](0)K(+) and B(0)-->K[over ](0)K(0) decays with 5.3sigma and 6.0sigma significance, respectively. We measure the branching fractions B(B(+)-->K[over ](0)K(+))=(1.22(-0.28-0.16)(+0.32+0.13))x10(-6) and B(B(0)-->K[over ](0)K(0))=(0.87(-0.20)(+0.25)+/-0.09)x10(-6), and partial-rate asymmetries A(CP)(B(+)-->K[over ](0)K(+))=0.13(-0.24)(+0.23)+/-0.02 and A(CP)(B(0)-->K[over ](0)K(0))=-0.58(-0.66)(+0.73)+/-0.04. From a simultaneous fit, we also obtain B(B(+)-->K(0)pi(+))=(22.8(-0.7)(+0.8)+/-1.3)x10(-6) and A(CP)(B(+)-->K(0)pi(+))=0.03+/-0.03+/-0.01. The first and second error in the branching fractions and the partial-rate asymmetries are statistical and systematic, respectively. No signal is observed for B(0)-->K(+)K(-) decays, and for this branching fraction, we set an upper limit of 4.1x10(-7) at the 90% confidence level.

Observation of the decay B(0)-->J/psieta

We report the first observation of B(0)-->J/psieta decay. These results are obtained from a data sample that contains 449 x10(6) BB[over] pairs accumulated at the Upsilon(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e(+)e(-) collider. We observe a signal with a significance of 8.1 sigma and obtain a branching fraction of (9.5+/-1.7(stat)+/-0.8(syst)) x 10(-6).

Measurement of the near-threshold e+e- --> D(*)+/-D(*)-/+ cross section using initial-state radiation

We report a measurement of the exclusive e+e- -->D(*)+/-D*-/+ cross section as a function of center-of-mass energy near the D(*)+/-D*-/+ threshold with initial-state radiation. A partial reconstruction technique is used to increase the efficiency and to suppress background. The analysis is based on a data sample collected with the Belle detector with an integrated luminosity of 547.8 fb(-1).

Observation of a charmoniumlike state produced in association with a J/psi in e+e- annihilation at sqrt[s] approximately equal to 10.6 GeV

We report the first observation of a charmoniumlike state recoiling from the J/psi in the inclusive process e+e- -->J/psi+anything at a mass of (3.943+/-0.006+/-0.006) GeV/c{2}. We also observe the decay of this state into D*D[over ] and determine its intrinsic width to be less than 52 MeV/c{2} at the 90% C.L. These results are obtained from a 357 fb{-1} data sample collected with the Belle detector near the Upsilon(4S) resonance, at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e+e- collider.

Measurement of ocular torsion using iterative Lucas-Kanade optical flow method

This paper presents a new method for measuring ocular torsion using the optical flow. Iris image is cropped and transformed into rectangular image to make a orientation invariant image. Feature points were selected at iris region from a reference and a target image, and then shift of each feature was calculated using iterative Lucas-Kanade method. The feature points were selected according to the strength of corner on the iris image. The accuracy of the algorithm was tested using printed eye image and compared with traditional cross-correlation method. Measurement error was less than 0.15 degree.

Measurement of ocular torsion using iterative optical flow

This work represents a new method for measuring ocular torsion using optical flow. Feature points are obtained from reference and current image, and the relative optical flows of each point are calculated. The feature points are selected according to the strength of corner on the signature of iris. This method is robust and effective in calculation.

Automated quantification of retinal nerve fiber layer atrophy in fundus photograph

Quantitative analysis of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) defect is prerequisite in the early detection and management of glaucoma. A new automatic quantification method to evaluate the degree of RNLF defect has been proposed in this paper. Simple image processing technique is applied to locate optic disc and intensity of the pixels around optic disc is plotted. The area with RNFL defect can be easily determined by comparing the intensity plot of the RNFL and the first derivative of the intensity plot. Through analysis of the plot, thickness of RNFL also can be postulated.

Three dimensional reconstruction of conventional stereo optic disc image

Stereo disc photograph was analyzed and reconstructed as 3 dimensional contour image to evaluate the status of the optic nerve head for the early detection of glaucoma and the evaluation of the efficacy of treatment. Stepwise preprocessing was introduced to detect the edge of the optic nerve head and retinal vessels and reduce noises. Paired images were registered by power cepstrum method and zero-mean normalized cross-correlation. After Gaussian blurring, median filter application and disparity pair searching, depth information in the 3 dimensionally reconstructed image was calculated by the simple triangulation formula. Calculated depth maps were smoothed through cubic B-spline interpolation and retinal vessels were visualized more clearly by adding reference image. Resulted 3 dimensional contour image showed optic cups, retinal vessels and the notching of the neural rim of the optic disc clearly and intuitively, helping physicians in understanding and interpreting the stereo disc photograph.

Multi-channel measurement of photo-plethysmography and evaluation for the optimal site of a thigh in a toilet

It is hard to obtain the physiological signals from the thigh. In this study, we used multi-channel photo-plethysmography systems and monitored the signals to know the optimal sites. For the reliability, 8 subjects were participated in the study, and the estimations of probability about their obtained signals were done. With bluetooth technique, we made a remote monitoring don Finally, we chose the candidate sites for the optimal sites and our study will be continued to monitoring the noninvasive and nonconscious physiological signals with this information.

Measurement of inclusive Ds, D0, and J/psi rates and determination of the Bs(*)Bs(*) production fraction in bb Events at the Upsilon(5S) resonance

The inclusive production of D(s), D(0), and J/psi mesons is studied using a 1.86 fb(-1) data sample collected on the Upsilon(5S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e(+)e(-) collider. The number of bb events in this Upsilon(5S) data sample is determined. We measure the branching fractions B(Upsilon(5S)-->D(s)X)/2=(23.6+/-1.2+/-3.6)%, B(Upsilon(5S)-->D(0)X)/2=(53.8+/-2.0+/-3.4)%, and B(Upsilon(5S)-->J/psiX)/2=(1.030+/-0.080+/-0.067)%. From the D(s) and D(0) inclusive branching fractions the ratio f(s)=(18.0+/-1.3+/-3.2)% of B(s)(*)B(s)(*) to the total bb quark pair production at the Upsilon(5S) energy is obtained in a model-dependent way.

HLA-E*0101 and HLA-G*010101 reduce the risk of Behcet's disease

The nonclassical human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-E and -G molecules have previously been shown to inhibit natural killer- and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-mediated cell lysis and have also been shown to prevent the proliferation of CD4 T cells and secrete cytokines that appear to be important in the modulation of the Behcet's disease (BD) immune systems. Polymorphisms in the HLA-E and HLA-G genes have been associated with differential expression and function. Thus, we conducted an analysis of the HLA-E and HLA-G alleles using Amplification Refractory Mutation System-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism techniques in a study comprising 312 patients with BD and 486 controls. The HLA-E*0101 and HLA-G*010101 alleles were associated with a reduced risk of BD (P = 0.0002, odds ratio (OR) = 0.7 and P = 0.002, OR = 0.7, respectively). By way of contrast, the variants HLA-E*010302, HLA-G*010102, G*0105N alleles and 3741_3754ins14bp were all associated with an increased risk of BD (P < 0.0001, OR = 1.6; P = 0.002, OR = 1.8; P = 0.024, OR = 2.0 and P = 0.003, OR = 1.4, respectively). Individuals carrying both the HLA-E*0101 and the HLA-G*010101 alleles evidenced significantly lower frequency in the patients than in the controls (35.6% vs 49.6%; P < 0.0001, OR = 0.6). These results indicate that variant HLA-E and HLA-G molecules appear to function independently and synergistically, increasing the risk of BD, and may result in an imbalance of lymphocytic functions, which may culminate in the development of BD.

Polymorphisms of KCNJ11 (Kir6.2 gene) are associated with Type 2 diabetes and hypertension in the Korean population

AIMS

Kir6.2 is found in the pancreatic B-cell, cardiac and skeletal muscle and non-vascular smooth muscle. KCNJ11, encoding Kir6.2, has been shown to be associated with both Type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease in several populations. In this study, we investigated whether polymorphisms in KCNJ11 are associated with Type 2 diabetes and other metabolic phenotypes in the Korean population.

METHODS

We sequenced KCNJ11 to identify common polymorphisms using 24 Korean DNA samples. Of the 14 polymorphisms found in KCNJ11, six common ones [genomic sequence (g.)-1709A>T, g.-1525T>C, g.67G>A (E23K), g.570C>T (A190A), g.1009A>G (I337V), and g.1388C>T] were genotyped in 761 Type 2 diabetic patients and in 630 non-diabetic subjects.

RESULTS

All the polymorphic loci in KCNJ11 are in strong linkage disequilibrium in the Korean population and act as one haplotype block. g.67G>A and g.1009A>G were associated with an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes [age, sex, and body mass index (BMI)-adjusted odds ratios (OR) = 1.376 (1.085-1.745), P = 0.008 and 1.411 (1.111-1.791), P = 0.005, respectively], as was one haplotype (A-T-A-C-G-C in the order of polymorphisms as shown above) containing g.67A and g.1009G [OR = 1.359 (1.080-1.709), P = 0.009]. The haplotype (A-T-A-C-G-C) was also strongly associated with hypertension [OR = 1.655 (1.288-2.126), P < 0.001].

CONCLUSIONS

Polymorphisms in KCNJ11 are associated with Type 2 diabetes and also with hypertension in the Korean population.

Observation of B+ --> Lambda c+ Lambda c- K+ and B0 --> Lambda c+ Lambda c- K0 decays

We report the first measurements of the doubly charmed baryonic B decays B --> Lambda c+ Lambda c- K. The B+ --> Lambda c+ Lambda c- K+ decay is observed with a branching fraction of (6.5(-0.9)(+1.0)+/-1.1+/-3.4)x10(-4) and a statistical significance of 15.4sigma. The B0 --> Lambda c+ Lambda c- K0 decay is observed with a branching fraction of (7.9(-2.3)(+2.9)+/-1.2+/-4.1)x10(-4) and a statistical significance of 6.6sigma. The branching fraction errors are statistical, systematic, and the error resulting from the uncertainty of the Lambda c+ --> pK- pi+ decay branching fraction. The analysis is based on 357 fb(-1) of data accumulated at the Upsilon(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e+ e- collider.