Self-assembly of block copolymer-based ionic supramolecules based upon multi-tail amphiphiles

Using synchrotron small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), self-assembly of ionic supramolecules based upon diblock copolymers of poly(styrene)-b-poly(methacrylic acid) and multi-tail (2- or 4-tail) alkyl quaternary ammonium amphiphiles is investigated.

Observation of e(+)e(-)→π(0)π(0)hc and a neutral charmoniumlike structure Zc(4020)(0)

Using data collected with the BESIII detector operating at the Beijing Electron Positron Collider at center-of-mass energies of sqrt[s]=4.23, 4.26, and 4.36 GeV, we observe e(+)e(-)→π(0)π(0)hc for the first time. The Born cross sections are measured and found to be about half of those of e(+)e(-)→π(+)π(-)hc within less than 2σ. In the π(0)hc mass spectrum, a structure at 4.02  GeV/c(2) is found. It is most likely to be the neutral isospin partner of the Zc(4020)(±) observed in the process of e(+)e(-)→π(+)π(-)hc being found. A fit to the π(0)hc invariant mass spectrum, with the width of the Zc(4020)(0) fixed to that of its charged isospin partner and possible interferences with non-Zc(4020)(0) amplitudes neglected, gives a mass of (4023.9±2.2±3.8)  MeV/c(2) for the Zc(4020)(0), where the first error is statistical and the second systematic.

Targeting thioredoxin-1 with siRNA exacerbates oxidative stress injury after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion in rats

Reactive oxygen species and their detrimental effects on the brain after transient ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of ischemic reperfusion injury. Thioredoxin-1 (Trx-1) is an endogenous antioxidant protein that has neuroprotective effects. We hypothesized that Trx-1 plays a crucial role in regulating cerebral I/R injury. To be able to test this, 190 Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) with Trx-1 siRNA (small interference RNA) injected 24 h prior to ischemia. At 24 h after tMCAO, we measured neurological deficits, infarct volume, and brain water content, and found that neurological dysfunction, brain infarct size, and brain edema were worse in the Trx-1 siRNA group than in the control group. Oxidative stress was evaluated by measuring superoxide dismutase activity and malondialdehyde level. The levels of Trx-1 and its cofactor, peroxiredoxin (Prdx), were significantly decreased after Trx-1 down-regulated. However, there is no significant difference in the Prdx mRNA level after administration of Trx-1 siRNA. In contrast, Prdx-SO3 protein levels were significantly increased in the Trx-1 siRNA group. We also investigated the specific role of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in Trx-1 induction by knocking down Nrf2. Nrf2 siRNA injection decreased Trx-1 mRNA and protein expression. Our results suggest that the exacerbation of brain damage was associated with enhanced cerebral peroxidation in brain tissues. Moreover, these results revealed that Trx-1, which is more likely regulated by Nrf2, exerts a neuroprotective role probably through maintaining the reduction activity of Prdx1-4.

Polymorphisms in the TNF-α, TNFR1 gene and risk of rheumatoid arthritis in Chinese Han population

Recent advances have highlighted a major genetic contribution to the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).The aim of this study was to investigate whether polymorphisms of TNF-α (rs1800630, rs1800629) and TNFR1 (rs767455) were associated with susceptibility to and clinical outcome of RA in Chinese Han population. The target gene polymorphisms were genotyped in 256 patients with RA and 331 healthy controls using a high resolution melting (HRM) method. ESR, CRP, RF anti-CCP and anti-GPI level were also assayed and compared in genotypes of each polymorphism. Significant difference was observed in the genotype distributions and allele frequencies of TNF-α rs1800629 (P = 0.001, P < 0.001, respectively) between patients with RA and controls. There is no evidence to suggest an association between genotypes of the 3 SNPs according to age, gender, disease duration, DAS28 and serum level of autoantibodies. This study identifies a potentially important role for TNF-α rs1800629 polymorphisms in the susceptibility to RA.However, further studies in larger cohorts are required.

Observation of η'→π+ π π+ π- and η'→π+π- π0 π0

Using a sample of 1.3 × 10(9)  J/ψ events collected with the BESIII detector, we report the first observation of η(')→π(+)π(-)π(+)π(-) and η(')→π(+)π(-)π(0)π(0). The measured branching fractions are B(η(')→π(+)π(-)π(+)π(-)) = [8.53 ± 0.69(stat.) ± 0.64(syst.)]×10(-5) and B(η(')→π(+)π(-)π(0) π(0)) = [1.82 ± 0.35(stat.) ± 0.18(syst.)] × 10(-4), which are consistent with theoretical predictions based on a combination of chiral perturbation theory and vector-meson dominance.

Gender differences in the relationships between lean body mass, fat mass and peak bone mass in young adults

The relationships between fat mass and bone mass in young adults are unclear. In 1,183 young Australians, lean body mass had a strong positive relationship with total body bone mass in both genders. Fat mass was a positive predictor of total body bone mass in females, with weaker association in males.

INTRODUCTION

Body weight and lean body mass are established as major determinants of bone mass, but the relationships between fat mass (including visceral fat) and peak bone mass in young adults are unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the associations between bone mass in young adults and three body composition measurements: lean body mass, fat mass and trunk-to-limb fat mass ratio (a surrogate measure of visceral fat).

METHODS

Study participants were 574 women and 609 men aged 19-22 years from the Raine study. Body composition, total body bone mineral content (TBBMC), bone area and areal bone mineral density (TBBMD) were measured using DXA.

RESULTS

In multivariate linear regression models with height, lean body mass, fat mass and trunk-to-limb fat mass ratio as predictor variables, lean mass was uniquely associated with the largest proportion of variance of TBBMC and TBBMD in males (semi-partial R(2) 0.275 and 0.345, respectively) and TBBMC in females (semi-partial R(2) 0.183). Fat mass was a more important predictor of TBBMC and TBBMD in females (semi-partial R(2) 0.126 and 0.039, respectively) than males (semi-partial R(2) 0.006 and 0.018, respectively). Trunk-to-limb fat mass ratio had a weak, negative association with TBBMC and bone area in both genders (semi-partial R(2) 0.004 to 0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

Lean body mass has strong positive relationship with total body bone mass in both genders. Fat mass may play a positive role in peak bone mass attainment in women but the association was weaker in men; different fat compartments may have different effects.

Observation of a charged charmoniumlike structure in e+ e- → (D* D*)± π∓ at √s = 4.26 GeV

We study the process e+ e- →(D* D*)± π∓ at a center-of-mass energy of 4.26 GeV using a 827  pb(-1) data sample obtained with the BESIII detector at the Beijing Electron Positron Collider. Based on a partial reconstruction technique, the Born cross section is measured to be (137±9±15)  pb. We observe a structure near the (D* D*)± threshold in the π∓ recoil mass spectrum, which we denote as the Zc±(4025). The measured mass and width of the structure are (4026.3±2.6±3.7)  MeV/c2 and (24.8±5.6±7.7)  MeV, respectively. Its production ratio σ(e+ e- → Zc±(4025)π∓ → (D* D*)± π∓)/σ(e+ e- → (D* D*)± π∓) is determined to be 0.65±0.09±0.06. The first uncertainties are statistical and the second are systematic.

Observation of e+e- → γX(3872) at BESIII

With data samples collected with the BESIII detector operating at the BEPCII storage ring at center-of-mass energies from 4.009 to 4.420 GeV, the process e+e-→ γX(3872) is observed for the first time with a statistical significance of 6.3σ. The measured mass of the X(3872) is (3871.9 ± 0.7s tat ± 0.2 syst)  MeV/c(2), in agreement with previous measurements. Measurements of the product of the cross section σ[e+e- → γX(3872)] and the branching fraction B[X(3872)→π+π-J/ψ] at center-of-mass energies 4.009, 4.229, 4.260, and 4.360 GeV are reported. Our measurements are consistent with expectations for the radiative transition process Y(4260) → γX(3872).

Observation of a charged (DD*)± mass peak in e+ e- → πDD* at sqrt[s] = 4.26 GeV

We report on a study of the process e+ e- → π± (DD*)∓ at sqrt[s] = 4.26  GeV using a 525 pb(-1) data sample collected with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII storage ring. A distinct charged structure is observed in the (DD*)∓ invariant mass distribution. When fitted to a mass-dependent-width Breit-Wigner line shape, the pole mass and width are determined to be Mpole = (3883.9±1.5(stat)±4.2(syst))  MeV/c2 and Γpole = (24.8±3.3(stat)±11.0(syst))  MeV. The mass and width of the structure, which we refer to as Zc(3885), are 2σ and 1σ, respectively, below those of the Zc(3900) → π± J/ψ peak observed by BESIII and Belle in π+ π- J/ψ final states produced at the same center-of-mass energy. The angular distribution of the πZc(3885) system favors a JP = 1+ quantum number assignment for the structure and disfavors 1- or 0-. The Born cross section times the DD* branching fraction of the Zc(3885) is measured to be σ(e+ e- → π± Zc(3885)∓)×B(Zc(3885)∓ → (DD*)∓) = (83.5±6.6(stat)±22.0(syst))   pb. Assuming the Zc(3885) → DD* signal reported here and the Zc(3900) → πJ/ψ signal are from the same source, the partial width ratio (Γ(Zc(3885) → DD*)/Γ(Zc(3900) → πJ/ψ)) = 6.2±1.1(stat)±2.7(syst) is determined.

Observation of a charged charmoniumlike structure Zc(4020) and search for the Zc(3900) in e+e-→π+π-hc

We study e+e-→π+π-hc at center-of-mass energies from 3.90 to 4.42 GeV by using data samples collected with the BESIII detector operating at the Beijing Electron Positron Collider. The Born cross sections are measured at 13 energies and are found to be of the same order of magnitude as those of e+e-→π+π-J/ψ but with a different line shape. In the π±hc mass spectrum, a distinct structure, referred to as Zc(4020), is observed at 4.02  GeV/c2. The Zc(4020) carries an electric charge and couples to charmonium. A fit to the π±hc invariant mass spectrum, neglecting possible interferences, results in a mass of (4022.9±0.8±2.7)  MeV/c2 and a width of (7.9±2.7±2.6)  MeV for the Zc(4020), where the first errors are statistical and the second systematic. The difference between the parameters of this structure and the Zc(4025) observed in the D*D[over ¯]* final state is within 1.5σ, but whether they are the same state needs further investigation. No significant Zc(3900) signal is observed, and upper limits on the Zc(3900) production cross sections in π±hc at center-of-mass energies of 4.23 and 4.26 GeV are set.

Resonance Raman and Raman Spectroscopy for Breast Cancer Detection

Raman spectroscopy is a sensitive method to detect early changes of molecular composition and structure that occur in lesions during carcinogenesis. The Raman spectra of normal, benign and cancerous breast tissues were investigated in vitro using a near-infrared (NIR) Raman system of 785 nm excitation and confocal micro resonance Raman system of 532 nm excitation. A total number of 491 Raman spectra were acquired from normal, benign and cancerous breast tissues taken from 15 patients. When the 785 nm excitation was used, the dominant peaks in the spectra were characteristic of the vibrations of proteins and lipids. The differences between the normal and cancerous breast tissues were observed in both the peak positions and the intensity ratios of the characteristic Raman peaks in the spectral region of 700–1800 cm−1. With 532 nm excitation, the resonance Raman (RR) spectra exhibited a robust pattern of peaks within the region of 500–4000 cm−1. The intensities of four distinct peaks at 1156, 1521, 2854 and 3013 cm−1 detected in the spectra collected from normal breast tissue were found to be stronger in comparison with those collected from cancerous breast tissue. The twelve dramatically enhanced characteristic peaks, including the enhanced amide II peak at 1548 cm−1 in the spectra collected from cancerous breast tissue, distinguished the cancerous tissue from the normal tissue. Principal component analysis (PCA) combined with support vector machine (SVM) analysis of the Raman and RR spectral data yielded a high performance in the classification of cancerous and benign lesions from normal breast tissue.

Observation of a charged charmoniumlike structure in e+ e- → π+ π- J/ψ at sqrt[s] = 4.26 GeV

We study the process ee+ e- → π+ π- J/ψ at a center-of-mass energy of 4.260 GeV using a 525  pb(-1) data sample collected with the BESIII detector operating at the Beijing Electron Positron Collider. The Born cross section is measured to be (62.9±1.9±3.7)  pb, consistent with the production of the Y(4260). We observe a structure at around 3.9  GeV/c2 in the π(±)J/ψ mass spectrum, which we refer to as the Z(c)(3900). If interpreted as a new particle, it is unusual in that it carries an electric charge and couples to charmonium. A fit to the π(±)J/ψ invariant mass spectrum, neglecting interference, results in a mass of (3899.0±3.6±4.9)  MeV/c2 and a width of (46±10±20)  MeV. Its production ratio is measured to be R = (σ(e+ e- → π(±)Z(c)(3900)(∓) → π+ π- J/ψ)/σ(e+ e- → π+ π- J/ψ)) = (21.5±3.3±7.5)%. In all measurements the first errors are statistical and the second are systematic.

Five-year decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate associated with a higher risk of renal disease and atherosclerotic vascular disease clinical events in elderly women

BACKGROUND

Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) has been demonstrated to predict atherosclerotic vascular disease (ASVD)-associated clinical events independent of traditional vascular risk factors. Recent studies have demonstrated that eGFR decline over time may improve prediction of ASVD-associated mortality risk in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients.

AIM

The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between 5-year change in eGFR with renal disease and ASVD-associated clinical events.

DESIGN

Prospective observational study.

METHODS

A total of 1012 women over the age of 70 years from the Calcium Intake Fracture Outcome Study were included. Baseline characteristics including baseline and 5-year creatinine, participants' comorbidities and complete verified 10-year records for ASVD and renal disease-associated hospitalization and/or mortality were obtained using the Western Australian Data Linkage System.

RESULTS

Participants were stratified according to annual rate of eGFR change in quartiles [≤-1.2 (first quartile), >-1.2 to 0.1 (second quartile), >0.1-1.7 (third quartile) and >1.7 ml/min/1.73 m(2)/year (fourth quartile)]. In the adjusted model, compared with participants in the fourth quartile, those in the first and/or second quartiles of annual eGFR change had significantly higher risk of renal disease and/or ASVD-associated clinical events. However, the association with renal clinical events was more pparent in participants with baseline eGFR of <60 ml/min/1.73 m(2).

CONCLUSION

The results of this study suggest that the inclusion of long-term eGFR change over time might augment prognostication for renal disease and ASVD-associated clinical events in elderly women.

Under-reporting of energy intake in elderly Australian women is associated with a higher body mass index

OBJECTIVES

Identify the extent of under-reporting of energy intake and the characteristics associated with implausible intakes in elderly women.

DESIGN

Dietary intake was assessed using a 3-day weighed food record. Protein intake was validated by 24-hour urinary nitrogen. To examine under-reporting, participants were grouped according to their energy intake and compared to the Goldberg cut-off equation. Logistic regression was performed to assess the influence of body mass index (BMI) and social-demographic factors on under-reporting.

SETTING

Community dwelling elderly women from Perth, Western Australia.

PARTICIPANTS

217 elderly women aged 70-80 years.

RESULTS

Under-reporters had a higher physical activity level (p<0.001) compared with acceptable-reporters. The under-reporters also had a higher body weight (p=0.006), body mass index (BMI) (p=0.001), waist (p=0.011), hip circumference (p<0.001), whole body fat mass (p<0.001) and percentage body fat (p<0.001) than acceptable-reporters. Under-reporters had a significantly lower intakes of protein, fat, carbohydrate and alcohol (p<0.001) and fewer reported food items, compared with acceptable reporters. However, 24-hour urinary nitrogen was only marginally different between the two groups (p=0.053). Participants with a higher BMI were more likely to under-report their energy intake (BMI=25-29.9: odds ratio=2.98[95% CI=1.46-6.09]; BMI≥30: 5.84[2.41-14.14]).

CONCLUSION

Under-reporting energy intake in elderly women was associated with a higher BMI, body fat and higher self-reported physical activity levels. A higher BMI (≥25) appears to be most significant factor in determining if elderly women will underreport their food intake and may be related to body image. These results have implications for undertaking surveys of food intake in elderly women.

Observation of two new N* resonances in the decay ψ(3686)→ppπ0

Based on 106×10(6)ψ(3686) events collected with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII facility, a partial wave analysis of ψ(3686)→ppπ0 is performed. The branching fraction of this channel has been determined to be B(ψ(3686)→ppπ0)=(1.65±0.03±0.15)×10(-4). In this decay, 7 N* intermediate resonances are observed. Among these, two new resonances, N(2300) and N(2570) are significant, one 1/2+ resonance with a mass of 2300(-30-0)(+40+109)  MeV/c2 and width of 340(-30-58)(+30+110)  MeV/c2, and one 5/2- resonance with a mass of 2570(-10-10)(+19+34)  MeV/c2 and width of 250(-24-21)(+14+69)  MeV/c2. For the remaining 5 N* intermediate resonances [N(1440), N(1520), N(1535), N(1650) and N(1720)], the analysis yields mass and width values that are consistent with those from established resonances.

Evidence for the direct two-photon transition from ψ(3686) to J/ψ

The two-photon transition ψ(3686)→γγJ/ψ is studied in a sample of 1.06×10(8) ψ(3686) decays collected by the BESIII detector. The branching fraction is measured to be (3.1±0.6(stat)(-1.0)(+0.8)(syst))×10(-4) using J/ψ→e(+)e(-) and J/ψ→μ(+)μ(-) decays, and its upper limit is estimated to be 4.5×10(-4) at the 90% confidence level. This work represents the first measurement of a two-photon transition among charmonium states. The orientation of the ψ(3686) decay plane and the J/ψ polarization in this decay are also studied. In addition, the product branching fractions of sequential E1 transitions ψ(3686)→γχ(cJ) and χ(cJ)→γJ/ψ(J=0,1,2) are reported.

First observation of the M1 transition ψ(3686)→γη(c)(2S)

Using a sample of 106×10(6) ψ(3686) events collected with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII storage ring, we have made the first measurement of the M1 transition between the radially excited charmonium S-wave spin-triplet and the radially excited S-wave spin-singlet states: ψ(3686)→γη(c)(2S). Analyses of the processes ψ(3686)→γη(c)(2S) with η(c)(2S)→K(S)(0)K(±)π(∓) and K(+)K(-)π(0) give an η(c)(2S) signal with a statistical significance of greater than 10 standard deviations under a wide range of assumptions about the signal and background properties. The data are used to obtain measurements of the η(c)(2S) mass (M(η(c)(2S))=3637.6±2.9(stat)±1.6(syst) MeV/c(2)), width (Γ(η(c)(2S))=16.9±6.4(stat)±4.8(syst) MeV), and the product branching-fraction (B(ψ(3686)→γη(c)(2S))×B(η(c)(2S)→KKπ)=(1.30±0.20(stat)±0.30(syst))×10(-5)). Combining our result with a BABAR measurement of B(η(c)(2S)→KKπ), we find the branching fraction of the M1 transition to be B(ψ(3686)→γη(c)(2S))=(6.8±1.1(stat)±4.5(syst))×10(-4).

Measurements of the mass and width of the η(c) using the decay ψ(3686)→γη(c)

The mass and width of the lowest-lying S-wave spin singlet charmonium state, the η(c), are measured using a data sample of 1.06×10(8) ψ(3686) decays collected with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII storage ring. We use a model that incorporates full interference between the signal reaction, ψ(3686)→γη(c), and a nonresonant radiative background to describe the line shape of the η(c) successfully. We measure the η(c) mass to be 2984.3±0.6±0.6 MeV/c(2) and the total width to be 32.0±1.2±1.0 MeV, where the first errors are statistical and the second are systematic.

First observation of η(1405) decays into f(0)(980)π0

The decays J/ψ → γ π+ π- π0 and J/ψ → γ π0 π0 π0 are analyzed using a sample of 225×10(6) J/ψ events collected with the BESIII detector. The decay of η(1405) → f(0)(980)π0 with a large isospin violation is observed for the first time. The width of the f(0)(980) observed in the dipion mass spectra is anomalously narrower than the world average. Decay rates for three-pion decays of the η' are also measured precisely.

Radiological and clinical findings of 25 patients with invasive pulmonary aspergillosis: retrospective analysis of 2150 liver transplantation cases

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the radiological and clinical findings of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) after liver transplantation.

METHODS

This study included 25 consecutive liver transplant recipients with histologically confirmed IPA after liver transplantation. Radiological examinations performed for diagnosis were available in all patients. Clinical findings and changes in clinical response and radiological findings after treatment were also evaluated.

RESULTS

3 main radiological findings were identified: nodules, 64% (16/25); masses, 36% (9/25); and consolidations in a patchy pattern, 20% (5/25). A tree-in-bud pattern was found in 12% (3/25) of patients. In 8 (32%) of 25 patients, we found a combination of 2 or more of these signs: 5 (20%) patients presented with concurrent nodules accompanied by patchy consolidations and/or tree-in-bud, and 3 (12%) patients showed masses accompanied by large consolidations. A halo sign was observed in 20 (80%) of 25 patients. Hypodense sign and cavitary lesions were encountered in 17 (68%) of 25 patients. Follow-up radiological findings after treatment showed improvement in 18 patients, no change in 4 patients and progression in 3 patients. There were three aspergillosis-associated deaths during the follow-up period. The onset time of IPA was a median of 31 days after transplantation. The most common symptom at diagnosis was fever (n=15). None of the 25 patients had leukopaenia at the time of the diagnosis of IPA.

CONCLUSIONS

The most common radiological findings of IPA after liver transplantation are multiple nodules with or without halo sign, masses and consolidations, which usually appear about 1 month after transplantation.

Differences in structural geometrical outcomes at the neck of the proximal femur using two-dimensional DXA-derived projection (APEX) and three-dimensional QCT-derived (BIT QCT) techniques

Structural geometric parameters at neck of the proximal femur were obtained using DXA-derived hip structural analysis (APEX 3) and quantitative computed tomography-derived (BIT QCT) techniques in 237 elderly females. Linear correlations for parameters ranged from 0.45 to 0.90. The average value of the subperiosteal width, as determined by the two techniques, was the same; variables dependent on mass measurements were different.

INTRODUCTION

There has been increasing interest in using bone structural geometry to assess bone fragility to complement bone mineral mass. The objective of this study is to compare structural geometrical differences between "2D" DXA-derived and "3D" QCT-derived techniques in unselected clinical cases.

METHODS

All 237 females had both DXA and QCT assessments of femoral neck structural geometry. Variables compared were areal bone mineral density, cross-sectional area (CSA), cross-sectional moment of inertia (CSMI), section modulus (Z), averaged cortical thickness (Ct), endosteal width (ESW), subperiosteal width (W), and buckling ratio (BR).

RESULTS

Correlation of femoral neck variables ranged from 0.45 for ESW to 0.90 for CSA. APEX 3 and BIT QCT-derived femoral neck W values were numerically similar. However CSA, CSMI, Z and Ct values measured by APEX 3 were higher and ESW and BR values were lower than corresponding BIT QCT.

CONCLUSIONS

2D DXA structural analysis of neck of femur is related to but different from same parameters calculated from true 3D images obtained by CT. Femoral neck size values are similar for DXA and QCT, but structural geometrical variables dependent on mass calibration standards, location of neck ROI and mathematical derivation techniques are different.

Spin-parity analysis of pp¯ mass threshold structure in J/ψ and ψ(3686) radiative decays

A partial wave analysis of the pp¯ mass-threshold enhancement in the reaction J/ψ→γpp¯ is used to determine its J(PC) quantum numbers to be 0(-+), its peak mass to be below threshold at M=1832(-5)(+19)(stat)(-17)(+18)(syst)±19(model) MeV/c(2), and its total width to be Γ<76 MeV/c(2) at the 90% C.L. The product of branching ratios is measured to be BR[J/ψ→γX(pp¯)]BR[X(pp¯)→pp¯]=[9.0(-1.1)(+0.4)(stat)(-5.0)(+1.5)(syst)±2.3(model)]×10(-5). A similar analysis performed on ψ(3686)→γpp¯ decays shows, for the first time, the presence of a corresponding enhancement with a production rate relative to that for J/ψ decays of R=[5.08(-0.45)(+0.71)(stat)(-3.58)(+0.67)(syst)±0.12(model)]%.

An in vivo comparison of hip structure analysis (HSA) with measurements obtained by QCT

SUMMARY

In a population of elderly women, bone cross-sectional area (CSA), cross-sectional moment of inertia (CSMI), section modulus (Z), femoral neck axis length (FNAL), and width measured with hip structure analysis (HSA) on dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) images in the femoral neck and trochanteric regions are highly correlated to quantitative computed tomography (QCT) measurements.

INTRODUCTION

HSA is a method of obtaining measurements of proximal femur structure using 2D DXA technology. This study was designed to examine the correlations between HSA measurements and 3D QCT.

METHODS

Forty-one women (mean age, 82.8 ± 2.5 years) were measured using DXA and a 64-slice CT scanner (1 mm slice thickness, 0.29 mm in plane resolution). HSA parameters were calculated at the narrow neck (NN) and trochanteric (IT) regions on the DXA image. These regions were then translated to anatomically equivalent regions on the QCT dataset by co-registering the DXA image and QCT dataset using four DXA images acquired at different angles.

RESULTS

At the NN and IT regions, high linear correlations were measured between HSA and QCT for CSA r = 0.95 and 0.93, CSMI r = 0.94 and 0.93, and Z r = 0.93 and 0.89, respectively. All correlations were highly significant (p < 0.001), but there were differences in slope and offset between the two techniques, at least in part due to differences in calibration between the two techniques. FNAL and width of the bone at the NN and IT regions, physical measurements independent of the calibration, were highly correlated (r = 0.90-0.95, p < 0.001) and had slopes close to 1.0 (range, 0.978 to 1.003).

CONCLUSION

CSA, CSMI, Z, FNAL, and width measured by HSA correlate highly to high-resolution QCT.

ηπ+ π- resonant structure around 1.8 GeV/c(2) and η(1405) in J/ψ → ωηπ+ π-

We present results of a study of the decay J/ψ → ωηπ+ π- using a sample of (225.2 ± 2.8) × 10(6) J/ψ events collected by the BESIII detector, and report the observation of a new process J/ψ → ωX(1870) with a statistical significance of 7.2σ, in which X(1870) decays to a(0)(±)(980)π±. Fitting to ηπ+ π- mass spectrum yields a mass M = 1877.3 ± 6.3(stat)(-7.4)(+3.4)(syst) MeV/c(2), a width Γ = 57 ± 12(stat)(-4)(+19)(syst) MeV/c(2), and a product branching fraction B(J/ψ → ωX) × B(X→a(0)(±)(980)π±) × B(a(0) (±)(980) → ηπ±) = [1.50 ± 0.26(stat)(-0.36)(+0.72) (syst)] × 10(-4). Signals for J/ψ → ωf(1)(1285) and J/ψ → ω η(1405) are also clearly observed and measured.

Observation of χ(c1) decays into vector meson pairs φφ, ωω, and ωφ

Using (106±4)×10⁻⁶ ψ(3686) events accumulated with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII e⁺e⁻ collider, we present the first measurement of decays of χ(c1) to vector meson pairs φφ, ωω, and ωφ. The branching fractions are measured to be (4.4±0.3±0.5)×10⁻⁴, (6.0±0.3±0.7)×10⁻⁴, and (2.2±0.6±0.2)×10⁻⁵, for χ(c1)→φφ, ωω, and ωφ, respectively, which indicates that the hadron helicity selection rule is significantly violated in χ(cJ) decays. In addition, the measurement of χ(cJ)→ωφ provides the first indication of the rate of doubly OZI-suppressed χ(cJ) decay. Finally, we present improved measurements for the branching fractions of χ(c0) and χ(c2) to vector meson pairs.

Confirmation of the X(1835) and observation of the resonances X(2120) and X(2370) in J/ψ→γπ+π-η'

With a sample of (225.2±2.8)×10(6) J/ψ events registered in the BESIII detector, J/ψ→γπ(+)π(-)η(') is studied using two η(') decay modes: η(')→π(+)π(-)η and η(')→γρ(0). The X(1835), which was previously observed by BESII, is confirmed with a statistical significance that is larger than 20σ. In addition, in the π(+)π(-)η(') invariant-mass spectrum, the X(2120) and the X(2370), are observed with statistical significances larger than 7.2σ and 6.4σ, respectively. For the X(1835), the angular distribution of the radiative photon is consistent with expectations for a pseudoscalar.

Bandtail Limits to Solar Conversion Efficiencies in Amorphous Silicon Solar Cells

We describe a model for a-Si:H based pin solar cells derived primarily from valence bandtail properties. We show how hole drift-mobility measurements and measurements of the temperature-dependence of the open-circuit voltage VOC can be used to estimate the parameters, and we present VOC(T) measurements. We compared the power density under solar illumination calculated with this model with published results for as-deposited a-Si:H solar cells. The agreement is within 4% for a range of thicknesses, suggesting that the power from as-deposited cells is close to the bandtail limit.

Effects of GaN passivation with SiO2 and SiNx studied by photoluminescence and surface potential electric force microscopy

The influence of passivation with SiO2 and SiNx on optical properties and surface band bending in unintentionally doped GaN has been studied by steady-state photoluminescence (PL) and surface potential electric force microscopy (SP-EFM). For both types of passivation we observed a significant increase of PL intensity in air ambient at room temperature. The measured surface potential was the same for control and passivated samples within the experimental error. The value of the surface band-bending was determined as 1.0±0.2 eV in all cases. We suggest that the strong enhancement of PL is caused by reduction of contribution of the surface states to recombination of photogenerated carriers after passivation.

Evidence for ψ' decays into γπ0 and γη

The decays ψ'→γπ(0), γη and γη' are studied using data collected with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII e(+)e(-) collider. The processes ψ'→γπ(0) and ψ'→γη are observed for the first time with signal significances of 4.6σ and 4.3σ, respectively. The branching fractions are determined to be B(ψ'→γπ(0))=(1.58±0.40±0.13)×10(-6), B(ψ'→γη)=(1.38±0.48±0.09)×10(-6), and B(ψ'→γη')=(126±3±8)×10(-6), where the first errors are statistical and the second ones systematic.

Adequacy and change in nutrient and food intakes with aging in a seven-year cohort study in elderly women

OBJECTIVE

As women age total dietary intake falls which may increase the risk of dietary deficiencies in some individuals. The aims of this study were to investigate the changes in nutrient and dietary intakes that occurred with aging in a seven-year longitudinal study of elderly Australian women and to evaluate the adequacy of their dietary intakes.

DESIGN

Longitudinal population based study on health with ageing.

PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING

911 free-living elderly women aged 70-85 years at baseline from a cohort of 1500 elderly women.

MEASUREMENTS

At baseline, 60 and 84 months, self-reported Food Frequency Questionnaires (FFQ) and demographics were collected and anthropometry measured.

RESULTS

During the 84 month subjects lost height (1.8 cm) and body weight (1.9 kg). Intakes of energy and macronutrients carbohydrate, fat and protein declined significantly over the 84 months. Mean energy derived from saturated fat was above, whereas energy derived from carbohydrate was below, recommended levels of intake at all time points. Intakes of vitamins and minerals all declined with age and subjects had suboptimal intakes of folate, vitamin E and calcium at all time points. The serve sizes for potato and meat and the consumption of milk, bread and variety of vegetables declined significantly over time reflecting changes in nutrient intake.

CONCLUSIONS

Ageing is associated with reduced food intake resulting in inadequate intakes in energy, and some nutrients. Nutrition policy for elderly women should include advice to maintain or increase intakes of carbohydrate, milk, vegetables and fruit whilst continuing to reduce fat intake.

Effect of microclimate on particulate matter, airborne bacteria, and odorous compounds in swine nursery houses

Nursery pigs are vulnerable to environmental risks associated with the microclimate and aerial contaminants. This study was carried out to assess the effect of microclimate (i.e., temperature, relative humidity, and air speed) on the quantity of particulate matter (PM), airborne bacteria, and odorants in nursery houses. Data were collected from 15 farms in different locations throughout South Korea during 4 seasons; daily sampling times were from 1000 to 1100 h in the morning. A nonparametric correlation analysis revealed correlations between microclimate variables and airborne contaminants in different seasons. Over the entire year, negative correlations were observed between temperature, air speed, and some odorous compounds (P < 0.05). Furthermore, negative correlations were observed between temperature, air speed, and relatively large airborne particulates, such as PM(10) (PM mean aerodynamic diameter ≤10 μm), PM(7) (PM mean aerodynamic diameter ≤7 μm), and total suspended particles (P < 0.05). A possible reason for these negative correlations is that increased ventilation at an increased room temperature could transfer most airborne particulates that are carried with odorous compounds out of the nursery houses. On the other hand, because of the sensitivity of coliform bacteria to temperature, positive correlations were observed between temperature and total coliform and Escherichia coli counts (P < 0.01). Because it is a challenging task to control the quantity of aerial contaminants in nursery houses, the relationships between the microclimate and airborne contaminants established in this study could be used to reduce those contaminants by controlling microclimate variables. The correlations established in the current study could also be helpful in establishing guidelines for good management practices in nursery houses.

Measurements of h(c)(1P(1)) in psi' decays

We present measurements of the charmonium state h(c)(1P(1)) made with 106x10(6) psi' events collected by BESIII at BEPCII. Clear signals are observed for psi'-->pi0 h(c) with and without the subsequent radiative decay h(c)-->gamma eta(c). First measurements of the absolute branching ratios B(psi'-->pi0 h(c)) = (8.4+/-1.3+/-1.0) x 10(-4) and B(h(c)-->gamma eta(c)) = (54.3+/-6.7+/-5.2)% are presented. A statistics-limited determination of the previously unmeasured h(c) width leads to an upper limit Gamma(h(c))<1.44 MeV (90% confidence). Measurements of M(h(c)) = 3525.40+/-0.13+/-0.18 MeV/c2 and B(psi'-->pi0 h(c)) x B(h(c)-->gamma eta(c)) = (4.58+/-0.40+/-0.50) x 10(-4) are consistent with previous results.