bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reversible Data Hiding for DNA Sequence Using Multilevel Histogram Shifting
Authors: Lee Suk-Hwan
Published: March 2018

A large number of studies have examined DNA storage to achieve information hiding in DNA sequences with DNA computing technology. However, most data hiding methods are irreversible in that the original DNA sequence cannot be recovered from the watermarked DNA sequence. This study presents reversible data hiding methods based on multilevel histogram shifting to prevent biological mutations, preserve sequence length, increase watermark capacity, and facilitate blind detection/recovery. The main features of our method are as follows. First, we encode a sequence of nucleotide bases with four-character symbols into integer values using the numeric order. Second, we embed multiple bits in each integer value by multilevel histogram shifting of noncircular type (NHS) and circular type (CHS). Third, we prevent the generation of false start/stop codons by verifying whether a start/stop codon is included in an integer value or between adjacent integer values. The results of our experiments confirmed that the NHS- and CHS-based methods have higher watermark capacities than conventional methods in terms of supplementary data used for decoding. Moreover, unlike conventional methods, our methods do not generate false start/stop codons.
Vulnerability Analysis of Network Scanning on SCADA Systems
Authors: Coffey Kyle , Smith Richard , Maglaras Leandros , Janicke Helge
Published: March 2018

Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems and Industrial Control Systems (ICSs) have controlled the regulation and management of Critical National Infrastructure environments for decades. With the demand for remote facilities to be controlled and monitored, industries have continued to adopt Internet technology into their ICS and SCADA systems so that their enterprise can span across international borders in order to meet the demand of modern living. Although this is a necessity, it could prove to be potentially dangerous. The devices that make up ICS and SCADA systems have bespoke purposes and are often inherently vulnerable and difficult to merge with newer technologies. The focus of this article is to explore, test, and critically analyse the use of network scanning tools against bespoke SCADA equipment in order to identify the issues with conducting asset discovery or service detection on SCADA systems with the same tools used on conventional IP networks. The observations and results of the experiments conducted are helpful in evaluating their feasibility and whether they have a negative impact on how they operate. This in turn helps deduce whether network scanners open a new set of vulnerabilities unique to SCADA systems.
Diffusion Tensor Imaging Evaluation of Neural Network Development in Patients Undergoing Therapeutic Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation following Stroke
Authors: Yamada Naoki , Ueda Ryo , Kakuda Wataru , Momosaki Ryo , Kondo Takahiro , Hada Takuya , Sasaki Nobuyuki , Hara Takatoshi , Senoo Atsushi , Abo Masahiro
Published: March 2018

We aimed to investigate plastic changes in cerebral white matter structures using diffusion tensor imaging following a 15-day stroke rehabilitation program. We compared the detection of cerebral plasticity between generalized fractional anisotropy (GFA), a novel tool for investigating white matter structures, and fractional anisotropy (FA). Low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (LF-rTMS) of 2400 pulses applied to the nonlesional hemisphere and 240 min intensive occupation therapy (OT) daily over 15 days. Motor function was evaluated using the Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA) and Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT). Patients underwent diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on admission and discharge, from which bilateral FA and GFA values in Brodmann area (BA) 4 and BA6 were calculated. Motor function improved following treatment (p<0.001). Treatment increased GFA values for both the lesioned and nonlesioned BA4 (p<0.05, p<0.001, resp.). Changes in GFA value for BA4 of the lesioned hemisphere were significantly inversely correlated with changes in WMFT scores (R2=0.363, p<0.05). Our findings indicate that the GFA may have a potentially more useful ability than FA to detect changes in white matter structures in areas of fiber intersection for any such future investigations.
Enhancement of Lipid Metabolism and Hepatic Stability in Fat‐Induced Obese Mice by Fermented Cucurbita moschata Extract
Authors: Hossain Md. Akil , Lee Seung-Jin , Park Na-Hye , Birhanu Biruk Tesfaye , Mechesso Abraham Fikru , Park Ji-Yong , Park Eun-Jin , Lee Sam-Pin , Youn Sun-Joo , Park Seung-Chun
Published: March 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the potentials of fermented Cucurbita moschata extract (FCME) in the treatment of obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Five‐week‐old male C57BL/6 mice were assigned to 6 groups and treated for 8 weeks by feeding the normal diet (ND) and high fat diet (HFD) with and without FCME. Changes in body weight gain and consumption of feed and water were recorded. Major organs, adipose tissues, and blood samples were collected after the experimental period. The serum lipid profile, histological features of liver and adipose tissues, and mRNA expression of different adipogenic/lipogenic genes from liver tissue were evaluated. The supplementation of FCME in HFD significantly prevented HFD‐induced increment of bodyweight. The adipose tissue mass, liver enzymes, and plasma lipids were also reduced significantly (p < 0.05) by the consumption of FCME. The mRNA expressions of adipogenic/lipogenic genes (PPARγ, C/EBPα, C/EBPβ, C/EBPγ, and SREBP‐1C) in FCME‐treated obese mice were considerably (p < 0.05) suppressed. FCME showed its antiobesity potential by suppressing the body weight gain and by modulating the plasma lipids and liver enzymes through the regulation of adipogenic/lipogenic transcriptional factors. Fermented Cucurbita moschata could be an opportunistic agent in controlling obesity and fatty liver changes.
Neutrino Mass and the Higgs Portal Dark Matter in the ESSFSM
Authors: Khan Najimuddin
Published: March 2018

We extend the standard model with three right-handed singlet neutrinos and a real singlet scalar. We impose two Z2 and Z2′ symmetries. We explain the tiny neutrino mass-squared differences with two Z2- and Z2′-even right-handed neutrinos using type I seesaw mechanism. The Z2-odd fermion and the Z2′-odd scalar can both serve as viable dark matter candidates. We identify new regions in the parameter space which are consistent with relic density of the dark matter from recent direct search experiments LUX-2016 and XENON1T-2017 and LHC data.
Investigation on the Effects of Structural Dynamics on Rolling Bearing Fault Diagnosis by Means of Multibody Simulation
Authors: Golafshan Reza , Jacobs Georg , Wegerhoff Matthias , Drichel Pascal , Berroth Joerg
Published: March 2018

The present study aims to combine the fields modal analysis and signal processing and to show the use of Frequency Response Function (FRF), as a vibration transfer path, in enhancing reliability and abilities of the next generation vibration-based rolling bearing condition monitoring (CM) systems in complex mechanical systems. In line with this purpose, the hereby-presented paper employs an appropriate numerical model, that is, Multibody Simulation (MBS) of a vehicle’s drivetrain as a manner for numerical modal and structural analyses. For this, first, the principles of vibration-based bearing fault detection are reviewed and presented. Following that, a summary of MBS modelling and validating strategies are given. Then, the validated MBS model is used as a case study for further investigations. The results can confirm existence of challenges in fault detection of rolling bearings, in particular in complex mechanical systems. In further discussions, the capability of FRFs in fault localization and determination of ideal sensor positions is discussed in some detail. Finally, concluding remarks and suggestions for future works are summarized.
Nonlinear Vibration of Ladle Crane due to a Moving Trolley
Authors: Xin Yunsheng , Xu Gening , Su Nina , Dong Qing
Published: March 2018

The structural vibration of the main beam of a crane causes fatigue damage and discomfort to the driver. The swing of the payload has an effect on positioning precision, especially for a ladle crane, and this directly affects production safety. To study the influence of system parameters on the vibration of a crane’s main beam and the angle of the payload, a system consisting of the main beam, trolley, payload, and cabin was constructed. A rigid-flexible coupling dynamic model of a moving trolley with a hanging payload that moves on the flexible main beam with a concentrated cabin mass is established, and the direct integration method is used to solve the nonlinear differential equations of system vibration, which are obtained through Lagrange’s equation. Then, the time domain responses of the flexible main beam, payload angle, and cabin vibration are obtained. The influences of the trolley running speed, quality of the payload, and quality and position of the cabin on the vibration of the main beam and payload angle are analyzed. The results indicate that the amplitude of the main beam is directly proportional to the quality of the trolley, payload, and cab; the position of the cabin is closer to the mid-span; the amplitude of the main beam is larger; the structural damping has some influence on the vibration of the main beam; and the swing angle of the payload is related to the maximum running speed of the trolley, acceleration time, and length of the wire rope. In order to reduce the vibration of the main beam and cabin, the connection stiffness of the cabin should be ensured during installation.
The Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist Exendin-4 Inhibits Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Osteoclast Formation and Bone Resorption via Inhibition of TNF-αExpression in Macrophages
Authors: Shen Wei-Ren , Kimura Keisuke , Ishida Masahiko , Sugisawa Haruki , Kishikawa Akiko , Shima Kazuhiro , Ogawa Saika , Qi Jiawei , Kitaura Hideki
Published: March 2018

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are an effective treatment approach for type 2 diabetes. Recently, anti-inflammatory effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists have also been reported. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces inflammation and osteoclast formation. In this study, we investigated the effect of exendin-4, a widely used GLP-1 receptor agonist, in LPS-induced osteoclast formation and bone resorption. LPS with or without exendin-4 was administered on mouse calvariae by daily subcutaneous injection. The number of osteoclasts, the ratio of bone resorption pits, and the level of C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX) were significantly lower in LPS- and exendin-4-coadministered mice than in mice administered with LPS alone. RANKL and TNF-αmRNA expression levels were lower in the exendin-4- and LPS-coadministered group than in the LPS-administered group. Ourin vitroresults showed no direct effects of exendin-4 on RANKL-induced osteoclast formation, TNF-α-induced osteoclast formation, or LPS-induced RANKL expression in stromal cells. Conversely, TNF-αmRNA expression was inhibited in the exendin-4- and LPS-cotreated macrophages compared with cells treated with LPS alone. These results indicate that the GLP-1 receptor agonist exendin-4 may inhibit LPS-induced osteoclast formation and bone resorption by inhibiting LPS-induced TNF-αproduction in macrophages.
Fuzzy Control of Cold Storage Refrigeration System with Dynamic Coupling Compensation
Authors: Ma Xiliang , Mao Ruiqing
Published: March 2018

Cold storage refrigeration systems possess the characteristics of multiple input and output and strong coupling, which brings challenges to the optimize control. To reduce the adverse effects of the coupling and improve the overall control performance of cold storage refrigeration systems, a control strategy with dynamic coupling compensation was studied. First, dynamic model of a cold storage refrigeration system was established based on the requirements of the control system. At the same time, the coupling between the components was studied. Second, to reduce the adverse effects of the coupling, a fuzzy controller with dynamic coupling compensation was designed. As for the fuzzy controller, a self-tuning fuzzy controller was served as the primary controller, and an adaptive neural network was adopted to compensate the dynamic coupling. Finally, the proposed control strategy was employed to the cold storage refrigeration system, and simulations were carried out in the condition of start-up, variable load, and variable degree of superheat, respectively. The simulation results verify the effectiveness of the fuzzy control method with dynamic coupling compensation.
A Joint Channel Selection and Routing Protocol for Cognitive Radio Network
Authors: Wang Yuting , Zheng Guoqiang , Ma Huahong , Li Yang , Li Jishun
Published: March 2018

In cognitive radio network, the activities of primary users will cause great influence on the stability of multiple hops routes between cognitive users. In this regard, a joint channel selection and routing protocol, termed as CSRP, is proposed to ensure route stability and reduce route latency between cognitive users. The channel availability based on historical information and the channel switching delay are used as the channel selection criteria to choose the end‐to‐end shortest route which possesses high data delivery probabilities and low delays. Besides, simulation results show that the proposed protocol has a better performance in terms of packet transmission delay and data delivery rate compared with the routing protocols based on delay (TDRP) and based on joint routing and channel allocation (PUB‐JRCA).
Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering of MEH-PPV on Gold and Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Moraes Beatriz R. , Campos Nathalia S. , Barra Alvaro C. C. , Izumi Celly M. S.
Published: March 2018

The interaction of poly[2-methoxy-5-(2-ethylhexyloxy)-1,4-phenylenevinylene] (MEH-PPV) with Au or Ag nanospheres, Au nanostars, and Ag nanoprisms was investigated using surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). The SERS investigation showed that adsorption of MEH-PPV strongly depends on the nature of the nanoparticle surface. On gold nanostars that present a thick layer of capping polymer, SERS spectrum is only observed in relatively concentrated MEH-PPV solution (1 mmol L−1). On the other hand, Au and Ag nanospheres present SERS spectra down to 10−6 mol L−1 and no chemical interaction of MEH-PPV and metal surface is observed. The spectra of MEH-PPV on Ag nanoprisms with PVP as stabilizing agent suggest that the capping polymer induces a planar conformation of MEH-PPV and consequently an increase of conjugation length. These results give support for the application of MEH-PPV on optoelectronics in which interfacial effects are critical in the device efficiency and stability.
The Protective Mechanism of CAY10683 on Intestinal Mucosal Barrier in Acute Liver Failure through LPS/TLR4/MyD88 Pathway
Authors: Wang Yao , Chen Hui , Chen Qian , Jiao Fang-Zhou , Zhang Wen-Bin , Gong Zuo-Jiong
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective mechanism of HDAC2 inhibitor CAY10683 on intestinal mucosal barrier in acute liver failure (ALF). In order to establish ALF-induced intestinal epithelial barrier disruption models, D-galactosamine/LPS and LPS were, respectively, used with rats and NCM460 cell and then administrated with CAY10683. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) was measured to detect the permeability of cells. Real-time PCR and Western blotting were employed to detect the key mRNA and protein levels. The intestinal epithelial tissue pathology was detected. After interfering with CAY10683, the mRNA and protein levels of TLR4, MyD88, TRIF, and TRAF6 were decreased compared with model group (P<0.05), whereas the levels of ZO-1 and occluding were elevated (P<0.05). The permeability was elevated in CAY10683-interfered groups, when compared with model group (P<0.05). And the degree of intestinal epithelial tissue pathological damage in CAY10683 group was significantly reduced. Moreover, CAY10683 significantly decreased the TLR4 staining in animal tissue. The HDAC2 inhibitor CAY10683 could promote the damage of intestinal mucosal barrier in ALF through inhibiting LPS/TLR4/MyD88 pathway.
Synthesis of Ca‐Doped Three‐Dimensionally Ordered Macroporous Catalysts for Transesterification
Authors: Chokpanyarat Tanat , Punsuvon Vittaya , Achiwawanich Supakit
Published: March 2018

The novel three‐dimensionally ordered macroporous (3DOM) CaO/SiO2, 3DOM CaO/Al2O3, and 3DOM Ca12Al14O32Cl2 catalysts for biodiesel transesterification were prepared by sol‐gel method. The 3DOM catalysts were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The hierarchical porous structure was achieved; however, only 3DOM CaO/Al2O3 and 3DOM Ca12Al14O32Cl2 catalysts were used for transesterification due to high amount of active CaO. Various parameters such as methanol to oil molar ratio, catalyst concentration, reaction time, and their influence on the biodiesel production were studied. The result showed that 99.0% RPO conversion was achieved using the 3DOM Ca12Al14O33Cl2 as a catalyst under the optimal condition of 12 : 1 methanol to oil molar ratio and 6 wt.% catalyst with reaction time of 3 hours at 65°C.
The Impact of Simulated Spectral Noise on Random Forest and Oblique Random Forest Classification Performance
Authors: Agjee Na’eem Hoosen , Mutanga Onisimo , Peerbhay Kabir , Ismail Riyad
Published: March 2018

Hyperspectral datasets contain spectral noise, the presence of which adversely affects the classifier performance to generalize accurately. Despite machine learning algorithms being regarded as robust classifiers that generalize well under unfavourable noisy conditions, the extent of this is poorly understood. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of simulated spectral noise (10%, 20%, and 30%) on random forest (RF) and oblique random forest (oRF) classification performance using two node-splitting models (ridge regression (RR) and support vector machines (SVM)) to discriminate healthy and low infested water hyacinth plants. Results from this study showed that RF was slightly influenced by simulated noise with classification accuracies decreasing for week one and week two with the addition of 30% noise. In comparison to RF, oRF-RR and oRF-SVM yielded higher test accuracies (oRF-RR: 5.36%–7.15%; oRF-SVM: 3.58%–5.36%) and test kappa coefficients (oRF-RR: 10.72%–14.29%; oRF-SVM: 7.15%–10.72%). Notably, oRF-RR test accuracies and kappa coefficients remained consistent irrespective of simulated noise level for week one and week two while similar results were achieved for week three using oRF-SVM. Overall, this study has demonstrated that oRF-RR can be regarded a robust classification algorithm that is not influenced by noisy spectral conditions.
Complexity Measures for Quantifying Changes in Electroencephalogram in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Al-Nuaimi Ali H. Husseen , Jammeh Emmanuel , Sun Lingfen , Ifeachor Emmanuel
Published: March 2018

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive disorder that affects cognitive brain functions and starts many years before its clinical manifestations. A biomarker that provides a quantitative measure of changes in the brain due to AD in the early stages would be useful for early diagnosis of AD, but this would involve dealing with large numbers of people because up to 50% of dementia sufferers do not receive formal diagnosis. Thus, there is a need for accurate, low‐cost, and easy to use biomarkers that could be used to detect AD in its early stages. Potentially, electroencephalogram (EEG) based biomarkers can play a vital role in early diagnosis of AD as they can fulfill these needs. This is a cross‐sectional study that aims to demonstrate the usefulness of EEG complexity measures in early AD diagnosis. We have focused on the three complexity methods which have shown the greatest promise in the detection of AD, Tsallis entropy (TsEn), Higuchi Fractal Dimension (HFD), and Lempel‐Ziv complexity (LZC) methods. Unlike previous approaches, in this study, the complexity measures are derived from EEG frequency bands (instead of the entire EEG) as EEG activities have significant association with AD and this has led to enhanced performance. The results show that AD patients have significantly lower TsEn, HFD, and LZC values for specific EEG frequency bands and for specific EEG channels and that this information can be used to detect AD with a sensitivity and specificity of more than 90%.
Stability of Folate and Vitamin B12in Human Serum after Long-Term Storage: A Follow-Up after 13 Years
Authors: Jansen Eugène H. J. M. , Beekhof Piet K.
Published: March 2018

In epidemiological and nutrition research, it is very important to evaluate the stability of biomarkers as function of both storage time and temperature. In this study, the stability of folate and vitamin B12in human serum samples has been tested after long-term storage at −80°C up to 13 years. Serum samples of 16 individuals were used in this study. The concentration of folate and vitamin B12has been determined att=0and at 1, 8, and 13 years after storage at −80°C. The folate concentrations in serum samples remained stable at −80°C. The concentration of vitamin B12was decreasing during the time of the study to about 50%. The correlation of the folate and also of the vitamin B12concentrations in the stored samples compared with the starting values was still good. Therefore, although the concentration of vitamin B12decreased upon storage, reliable comparative analyses can still be performed.
Uniqueness Point Effects during Speech Planning in Adults Who Do and Do Not Stutter
Authors: Coalson Geoffrey A. , Byrd Courtney T. , Kuylen Amanda
Published: March 2018

Background/Aims: Previous studies employing a variety of tasks have demonstrated that adults who stutter (AWS) pre­sent with phonological encoding differences compared to adults who do not stutter (AWNS). The present study examined whether atypical preverbal monitoring also influenced AWS performance during one such paradigm – the silent phoneme monitoring task. Specifically, we investigated whether monitoring latencies for AWS were accelerated after the word’s uniqueness point – the phoneme that isolates the word from all lexical competitors – as observed for AWNS when monitoring internal and external speech. Methods: Twenty adults (10 AWS, 10 AWNS) completed a silent phoneme monitoring task using stimuli which contained either (a) early uniqueness points (EUP), (b) late uniqueness points, or (c) no uniqueness point (NUP). Response latency when identifying word-final phonemes was measured. Results: AWNS exhibited the expected uniqueness point effect when monitoring internal speech; word-final phonemes were accessed more rapidly for words with EUP than NUP. In contrast, AWS did not differ in the phoneme monitoring speed. That is, AWS did not exhibit the expected uniqueness point effects. Conclusion: Findings suggest that inefficient or atypical preverbal monitoring may be present in AWS and support theories that implicate the internal speech monitor as an area of deficit.
Efficacy and Safety of Bevacizumab Combined with Mitomycin C or 5-Fluorouracil in Primary Trabeculectomy: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Chen Hung-Ju , Lin Chin  , Lee Cho-Hao  , Chen Yi-Hao 
Published: March 2018

Aim: The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of bevacizumab combined with antimetabolite as an adjunctive therapy in primary trabeculectomy for glaucoma. Materials and Methods: PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE were searched for relevant randomized controlled trials. Efficacy was evaluated by the postoperative mean intraocular pressure (IOP), complete success, and qualified success rates. Safety was evaluated by postoperative complications and surgical interventions. Results: A total of 3 randomized controlled trials were included in the meta-analysis. The primary outcome was postoperative mean IOP at the 12-month follow-up. No significant difference in IOP was found between the bevacizumab + antimetabolite (mitomycin c or 5-fluorouracil) group and the antimetabolite alone group (weighted mean difference –0.27; 95% CI –1.38 to 0.83). There were no significant differences in complete success rates, qualified success rates, postoperative complications, and surgical interventions between the experimental treatment group and the conventional treatment group. Conclusions: Results of the meta-analysis demonstrated that the combination of bevacizumab (1.25 mg/mL) with a regular concentration of antimetabolite did not show more benefit or harm compared with using antimetabolite alone. Further randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of bevacizumab combined with lower concentrations and a shorter application time of antimetabolite.
Antidepressant Use by Class: Association with Major Adverse Cardiac Events in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Grace Sherry L. , Medina-Inojosa Jose R. , Thomas Randal J. , Krause Heather , Vickers-Douglas Kristin S. , Palmer Brian A. , Lopez-Jimenez Francisco
Published: March 2018

Background: To assess use of antidepressants by class in relation to cardiology practice recommendations, and the association of antidepressant use with the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) including death. Methods: This is a historical cohort study of all patients who completed cardiac rehabilitation (CR) between 2002 and 2012 in a major CR center. Participants completed the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) at the start and end of the program. A linkage system enabled ascertainment of antidepressant use and MACE through 2014. Results: There were 1,694 CR participants, 1,266 (74.7%) of whom completed the PHQ-9 after the program. Depressive symptoms decreased significantly from pre- (4.98 ± 5.20) to postprogram (3.57 ± 4.43) (p < 0.001). Overall, 433 (34.2%) participants were on antidepressants, most often selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI; n = 299; 23.6%). The proportion of days covered was approximately 70% for all 4 major antidepressant classes; discontinuation rates ranged from 37.3% for tricyclics to 53.2% for serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI). Antidepressant use was significantly associated with lower depressive symptoms after CR (before, 7.33 ± 5.94 vs. after, 4.69 ± 4.87; p < 0.001). After a median follow-up of 4.7 years, 264 (20.9%) participants had a MACE. After propensity matching based on pre-CR depressive symptoms among other variables, participants taking tricyclics had significantly more MACE than those not taking tricyclics (HR = 2.46; 95% CI 1.37–4.42), as well as those taking atypicals versus not (HR = 1.59; 95% CI 1.05–2.41) and those on SSRI (HR = 1.45; 95% CI 1.07–1.97). There was no increased risk with use of SNRI (HR = 0.89; 95% CI 0.43–1.82). Conclusion: The use of antidepressants was associated with lower depression, but the use of all antidepressants except SNRI was associated with more adverse events.
Long-Term Prognostic Factors after Hepatic Resection for Hepatitis C Virus-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma, with a Special Reference to Viral Status
Authors: Koda Masaki , Tanaka Shogo , Takemura Shigekazu , Shinkawa Hiroji , Kinoshita Masahiko , Hamano Genya , Ito Tokuji , Kawada Norifumi , Shibata Toshihiko , Kubo Shoji
Published: March 2018

Background: Although studies have reported on long-term (10-year) survival after hepatic resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), they did not focus on patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related HCC, and the contribution of antiviral therapy to long-term survival (especially ≥15 years) has not been adequately examined. We investigated the long-term outcome after hepatic resection for HCV-related HCC, including the effects of interferon (IFN) therapy, and the changes in prognostic factors according to postoperative duration. Methods: The data of 207 patients who underwent hepatic resection for HCV-related HCC between January 1992 and December 2001 were retrospectively reviewed. We investigated the disease-free and overall survival rates after surgery and analyzed the prognostic factors at 5, 10, and 15 years postoperatively. Results: The proportion of patients who survived at 5, 10, and 15 years after hepatic resection was 52% (n = 107), 18% (n = 38), and 9% (n = 19). The overall survival rate was significantly higher in patients who achieved sustained virological response (SVR) with IFN therapy than in those without SVR. Tumor-related factors such as multiple tumor, microscopic vascular invasion, and a high indocyanine green retention rate at 15 min (ICGR15) were unfavorable prognostic factors for 5-year survival. Conversely, a low ICGR15 and SVR were favorable prognostic factors at 10 years, and SVR alone was a favorable prognostic factor at 15 years postoperatively; no tumor-related factors were prognostic factors at 10 and 15 years postoperatively. Conclusion: The prognostic factors varied according to the duration after hepatic resection for HCV-related HCC. Tumor-related factors were unfavorable prognostic factors in the early postoperative period, whereas SVR and good liver function were favorable prognostic factors at 10 and 15 years postoperatively. Achievement of SVR with IFN therapy is essential for long-term (≥15 years) survival after hepatic resection for HCV-related HCC.
Usefulness of Plasma Exosomal MicroRNA-451a as a Noninvasive Biomarker for Early Prediction of Recurrence and Prognosis of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Kanaoka Rie , Iinuma Hisae , Dejima Hitoshi , Sakai Takashi , Uehara Hirofumi , Matsutani Noriyuki , Kawamura Masafumi
Published: March 2018

Objectives: The aim of this study was to clarify the usefulness of plasma exosomal microRNA-451a (miR-451a) as a novel biomarker for the early prediction of recurrence and prognosis in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients after curative resection. Methods: Before surgery, plasma samples were collected and exosomal microRNA (miRNA) levels were evaluated. We first profiled specific exosomal miRNAs related to recurrence in 6 NSCLC patients with stage IA cancer by miRNA microarray. We then validated the usefulness of selected miRNAs as biomarkers using the other 285 NSCLC patients. Results: Plasma exosomal miR-451a showed the highest upregulation in the NSCLC patients with recurrence in the miRNA microarray analysis. A significant positive correlation was demonstrated between exosomal miR-451a levels and NSCLC tissue miR-451a levels. Exosomal miR-451a showed a significant association with lymph node metastasis, vascular invasion, and stage. In stage I, II, or III patients, the overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) rates among the high-exosomal-miR-451a patients were significantly worse than those among the low-exosomal-miR-451a patients. In Cox multivariate analysis, exosomal miR-451a showed significance for OS and DFS. Conclusion: Plasma exosomal miR-451a might serve as a reliable biomarker for the prediction of recurrence and prognosis in NSCLC patients with stage I, II, or III cancer.
Identification of in vivo Sulci on the External Surface of Eight Adult Chimpanzee Brains: Implications for Interpreting Early Hominin Endocasts
Authors: Falk Dean , Zollikofer Christoph P.E. , Ponce de León Marcia , Semendeferi Katerina , Alatorre Warren José Luis , Hopkins William D.
Published: March 2018

The only direct source of information about hominin brain evolution comes from the fossil record of endocranial casts (endocasts) that reproduce details of the external morphology of the brain imprinted on the walls of the braincase during life. Surface traces of sulci that separate the brain’s convolutions (gyri) are reproduced sporadically on early hominin endocasts. Paleoneurologists rely heavily on published descriptions of sulci on brains of great apes, especially chimpanzees (humans’ phylogenetically closest living relatives), to guide their identifications of sulci on ape-sized hominin endocasts. However, the few comprehensive descriptions of cortical sulci published for chimpanzees usually relied on post mortem brains, (now) antiquated terminology for some sulci, and photographs or line drawings from limited perspectives (typically right or left lateral views). The shortage of adequate descriptions of chimpanzee sulcal patterns partly explains why the identities of certain sulci on australopithecine endocasts (e.g., the inferior frontal and middle frontal sulci) have been controversial. Here, we provide images of lateral and dorsal surfaces of 16 hemispheres from 4 male and 4 female adult chimpanzee brains that were obtained using in vivo magnetic resonance imaging. Sulci on the exposed surfaces of the frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital lobes are identified on the images based on their locations, positions relative to each other, and homologies known from comparative studies of cytoarchitecture in primates. These images and sulcal identifications exceed the quantity and quality of previously published illustrations of chimpanzee brains with comprehensively labeled sulci and, thus, provide a larger number of examples for identifying sulci on hominin endocasts than hitherto available. Our findings, even in a small sample like the present one, overturn published claims that australopithecine endocasts reproduce derived configurations of certain sulci in their frontal lobes that never appear on chimpanzee brains. The sulcal patterns in these new images also suggest that changes in two gyri that bridge between the parietal and occipital lobes may have contributed to cortical reorganization in early hominins. It is our hope that these labeled in vivo chimpanzee brains will assist future researchers in identifying sulci on hominin endocasts, which is a necessary first step in the quest to learn how and when the external morphology of the human cerebral cortex evolved from apelike precursors.
Apparent Diffusion Coefficient Signal Intensity Ratio Predicts the Effect of Revascularization on Ischemic Cerebral Edema
Authors: Bevers Matthew B. , Battey Thomas W.K. , Ostwaldt Ann-Christin , Jahan Reza , Saver Jeffrey L. , Kimberly W. Taylor , Kidwell Chelsea S.
Published: March 2018

Background: Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) imaging is a biomarker of cytotoxic injury that predicts edema formation and outcome after ischemic stroke. It therefore has the potential to serve as a “tissue clock” to describe the extent of ischemic injury and potentially predict response to therapy. The goal of this study was to determine the relationship between baseline ADC signal intensity, revascularization, and edema formation. Methods: We examined the ADC signal intensity ratio (ADCr) of the stroke lesion (defined as the baseline DWI hyperintense region) compared to the contralateral normal hemisphere in 65 subjects from the Mechanical Retrieval and Recanalization of Stroke Clots Using Embolectomy trial. The associations between ADCr, neurologic outcome, and cerebral edema were examined. Finally, we explored the interaction between baseline ADCr and vessel recanalization at day 7 on post-stroke edema. Results: We found that lower initial ADCr was associated with a worse outcome on the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 90 days (52.2% of those with ADCr <64% were mRS 5–6 vs. 19.1% with ADCr ≥64%, p = 0.006). Those subjects with reconstitution of flow distal to the initial vessel occlusion showed greater normalization of ADCr on follow-up scan (increase in ADCr of 16.4 ± 2.07 vs. 1.99 ± 4.33%, p = 0.0039). In those patients with low baseline ADCr, successful revascularization was associated with reduced edema (median swelling volume 164 mL [interquartile range (IQR) 53.3–190 mL] vs. 20.7 mL [IQR 3.20–55.1 mL], p = 0.024). Conclusions: This study reaffirms the association of ADCr with outcome after stroke, supports the idea that reperfusion may attenuate rather than enhance post-stroke edema, and indicates that the degree of edema with and without revascularization may be predicted by ADCr.
Beneficial and Detrimental Effects of Antiretroviral Therapy on HIV-Associated Immunosenescence
Authors: Franzese Ornella , Barbaccia Maria Luisa , Bonmassar Enzo , Graziani Grazia
Published: March 2018

Since the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy more than 2 decades ago, HIV-related deaths have dramatically decreased and HIV infection has become a chronic disease. Due to the inability of antiretroviral drugs to eradicate the virus, treatment of HIV infection requires a systemic lifelong therapy. However, even when successfully treated, HIV patients still show increased incidence of age-associated co-morbidities compared with uninfected individuals. Virus- induced immunosenescence, a process characterized by a progressive decline of immune system function, contributes to the premature ageing observed in HIV patients. Although antiretroviral therapy has significantly improved both the quality and length of patient lives, the life expectancy of treated patients is still shorter compared with that of uninfected individuals. In particular, while antiretroviral therapy can contrast some features of HIV-associated immunosenescence, several anti-HIV agents may themselves contribute to other aspects of immune ageing. Moreover, older HIV patients tend to have a worse immunological response to the antiviral therapy. In this review we will examine the available evidence on the role of antiretroviral therapy in the control of the main features regulating immunosenescence.
Two N-Linked Glycans Differentially Control Maturation, Trafficking and Proteolysis, but not Activity of the IL-11 Receptor
Authors: Agthe Maria , Garbers Yvonne , Grötzinger Joachim , Garbers Christoph
Published: March 2018

Background/Aims: The cytokine interleukin-11 (IL-11) has important pro- and anti-inflammatory functions. It activates its target cells through binding to the IL-11 receptor (IL-11R), and the IL-11/IL-11R complex recruits a homodimer of glycoprotein 130 (gp130). N-linked glycosylation, a post-translational modification where complex oligosaccharides are attached to the side chain of asparagine residues, is often important for stability, folding and biological function of cytokine receptors. Methods: We generated different IL-11R mutants via site-directed mutagenesis and analyzed them in different cell lines via Western blot, flow cytometry, confocal microscopy and proliferation assays. Results: In this study, we identified two functional N-glycosylation sites in the D2 domain of the IL-11R at N127 and N194. While mutation of N127Q only slightly affects cell surface expression of the IL-11R, mutation of N194Q broadly prevents IL-11R appearance at the plasma membrane. Accordingly, IL-11R mutants lacking N194 are retained within the ER, whereas the N127 mutant is transported through the Golgi complex to the cell surface, uncovering a differential role of the two N-glycan sequons for IL-11R maturation. Interestingly, IL-11R mutants devoid of one or both N-glycans are still biologically active. Furthermore, the IL-11RN127Q/N194Q mutant shows no inducible shedding by ADAM10, but is rather constitutively released into the supernatant. Conclusion: Our results show that the two N-glycosylation sites differentially influence stability and proteolytic processing of the IL-11R, but that N-linked glycosylation is not a prerequisite for IL-11 signaling.
Choline Inhibits Ischemia-Reperfusion-Induced Cardiomyocyte Autophagy in Rat Myocardium by Activating Akt/mTOR Signaling
Authors: Hang Pengzhou , Zhao Jing , Su Zhenli , Sun Hanqi , Chen Tingting , Zhao Lihui , Du Zhimin
Published: March 2018

Backgroud/Aims: Growing evidence suggests that both cardiomyocyte apoptosis and excessive autophagy exacerbates cardiac dysfunction during myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (IR). As a precursor of acetylcholine, choline has been found to protect the heart by repressing ischemic cardiomyocyte apoptosis. However, the relationship between choline and cardiomyocyte autophagy is unclear. The present study aimed to investigate whether autophagy was involved in the cardioprotection of choline during IR. Methods: Rats were subjected to 30 min reversible ischemia by ligation of left anterior descending coronary artery followed by reperfusion for 2 h. Choline (5 mg/kg, i.v.) alone or along with rapamycin (5 mg/ kg, i.p.) were injected 30 min before ischemia. Transmission electron microscopy, hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and TUNEL staining were conducted to evaluate the effect of choline on cardiac apoptosis and autophagy. Protein levels of autophagic markers including LC3, beclin-1 and p62 as well as Akt and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) were examined by Western blotting. Results: Myocardial IR-induced cardiac apoptosis and accumulation of autophagosomes was attenuated by choline. Choline treatment significantly ameliorated myocardial IR-induced autophagic activity characterized by repression of beclin-1 over-activation, the reduction of autophagosomes, the LC3-II/LC3-I ratio, and p62 protein abundance. In addition, IR-induced downregulation of p-Akt/mTOR cascade was increased by choline. However, the above functions of choline were abolished by rapamycin. Conclusion: These findings suggest that choline plays a protective role against myocardial IR injury by inhibiting excessive autophagy, which might be associated with the activation of Akt/mTOR pathway. This study provides new mechanistic understanding of cardioprotective effect of choline and suggests novel potential therapeutic targets for cardiac IR injury.
Sanjad-Sakati Syndrome: Oral Health Care
Authors: Hassona Yazan , Rajab Lamis , Taimeh Dina , Scully Crispian
Published: March 2018

Objectives: The aim of this report is to describe the orofacial manifestations and dental management of a girl with Sanjad-Sakati syndrome. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: The facial features included microcephaly, thin lips, beaked nose, low set ears, and a retrognathic mandible. An oral examination revealed oligodontia/hypodontia, small dental arches, a high arched palate, and a deep overbite and increased overjet. Oral rehabilitation involved full coverage prosthetic crowns on the upper central incisors, stainless steel crowns on the lower molars, and removable partial prostheses to replace missing teeth. Conclusion: Recognition of orofacial features might help in the diagnosis of Sanjad-Sakati syndrome. Dental management of affected patients might be complicated by intellectual, neurological, and endocrine abnormalities.
Palatal bone defect mimicking a chronic periapical lesion: a case report emphasizing the importance of the use of a three-dimensional radiographic examination
Authors: Hisatomi Miki , Munhoz Luciana , Asaumi Junichi , Arita Emiko Saito
Published: March 2018

Chronic periapical lesion is among the most usual bone pathology observed in human teeth, and it is often first detected by plain radiographs, such as panoramic or periapical radiography. Plain radiographs are widely used in dentistry; however, they have limitations inherent to the technique itself, such as anatomic structures overlapping and lack of information on the extension of the lesion. Therefore, three-dimensional radiographic methods, such as cone beam computed tomography are valuable to accurately assess periapical lesions. Thus, this clinical report describes a case in which the bone radiographic features led to a primary diagnosis of chronic periapical lesion in superior incisors, however, it was a defect in the palatal bone. The resulting radiolucency created by the palatal bone defect overlapped the maxillary bone, mimicking a periapical lesion. Additionally, in the same case, we demonstrate a true chronic periapical lesion in another area that presented as a subtle radiolucency in periapical radiography, however, it was larger than expected when evaluated in Cone Beam Computed Tomography.
Posttreatment National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale Is Superior to the Initial Score or Thrombolysis in Cerebral Ischemia for 3-Month Outcome
Authors: Jeong Han-Gil , Kim Beom Joon , Choi Jay Chol , Hong Keun-Sik , Yang Mi Hwa , Jung Cheolkyu , Han Moon-Ku , Bae Hee-Joon
Published: March 2018

Background and Purpose—

The majority of ischemic stroke patients receiving endovascular recanalization therapy (EVT) experience variable changes of neurological severities during the hyperacute period. We hypothesized that the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score after EVT is a better prognostic factor compared with the initial NIHSS score or revascularization status.

Methods—

We identified 566 stroke patients who received EVT at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital between April 2008 and December 2015. We prospectively collected post-EVT NIHSS score, which was measured in the angiography suite by on-duty physicians after completion of EVT. Model 1 included baseline predictors including an initial NIHSS score. In model 2, 3, and 4, revascularization status, post-EVT NIHSS score, or both were additionally included. The discrimination powers for modified Rankin Scale score of 0 to 2 at 3 months were assessed using C statistic, integrated discrimination index, and category-free net reclassification index.

Results—

The median of initial and post-EVT NIHSS score were 14 (9–19) and 11 (5–17) points, respectively (an improvement, 58.8%; no change, 20.7%; deterioration, 20.5%). A modified Rankin Scale score 0 to 2 at 3 months was achieved in 47%. Based on the results of differences among the C statistics, both model 3 and model 4 (C statistics: 0.896 and 0.906) showed significantly increased discrimination power for modified Rankin Scale score 0 to 2 at 3 months than the model 1 or 2 (C statistics: 0.802 and 0.834,
P
values<0.001 for all comparisons). Model 4 showed significant improvement of both integrated discrimination index and net reclassification index as compared with all other models, but the magnitude of improvement from model 3 to model 4 (integrated discrimination index, 0.021; net reclassification index, 0.322) was modest.

Conclusions—

Incorporation of post-EVT NIHSS score conferred better discrimination power to the statistical models for functional recovery. Post-EVT NIHSS score may be an appropriate baseline factor when evaluating an intervention after hyperacute period.
A Discussion of a New Edition of the Early Greek Philosophers
Authors: Mansfeld Jaap
Published: March 2018

Review of the new Fayard edition of Laks and Most.
Intervention Impact on Young Students’ Associations about Wolf and Lynx
Authors: Dieser Olivia , Bogner Franz X.
Published: March 2018

Large carnivores such as wolves and lynxes have recently been re-established in some regions of Central Europe. In Central Europe only, scattered information about public background knowledge exists, whereas in Scandinavia, perceptions and/or natural history knowledge about those nonhuman animals only were monitored occasionally. Determining associations with wolves and lynxes among young students therefore is an important subject and offers great support when planning educational interventions. An educational module was offered to a sample of 4th and 5th graders (n = 311), which involved individual observations of wolves and lynxes in Animal Ground enclosures of a National Park. Before, during, and after participation, word associations of the stimuli words “wolf” and “lynx” were collected from all students, indicating a negative impression of those animals before the intervention, especially of the wolf. Our intervention decreased this negative image and improved the background knowledge of these species. Recommendations are discussed.