bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hotel Reservation Forecasting Using Flexible Soft Computing Techniques: A Case of Study in a Spanish Hotel
Authors: Martinez-De-Pison E. , Fernandez-Ceniceros J. , Pernia-Espinoza A. V. , Martinez-De-Pison F. J. , Sanz-Garcia Andres
Published: June 2016

Room demand estimation models are crucial in the performance of hotel revenue management systems. The advent of websites for online room booking has produced a decrease in the accuracy of prediction models due to the complex customers’ patterns. A reduction that has been particularly dramatic due to last-minute reservations. We propose the use of parsimonious models for improving room demand forecasting. The creation of the models is carried out by using a flexible methodology based on genetic algorithms whereby a wrapper-based scheme is optimized. The methodology includes not only an automated model parameter optimization but also the selection of most relevant inputs and the transformation of the skewed room demand distribution. The effectiveness of our proposal was evaluated using the historical room booking data from a hotel located at La Rioja region in northern Spain. The dataset also included sociological and meteorological information, and the list of local and regional festivities. Nine types of regression models were tuned using the optimization scheme proposed and grid search as the reference method. Models were compared showing that our proposal generated more parsimonious models, which in turn led to higher overall accuracy and better generalization performance. Finally, the applicability of the methodology was demonstrated through the creation of a six-month calendar with the estimated room demand.
Interval-Valued Belief Rule Inference Methodology Based on Evidential Reasoning-IRIMER
Authors: Zhu Hua , Zhao Jianbin , Xu Yang , Du Limin
Published: June 2016

In this paper, an interval-valued belief rule inference methodology based on evidential reasoning (IRIMER) is proposed, which includes the interval-valued belief rule representation scheme and its inference methodology. This interval-valued belief rule base is designed with interval-valued belief degrees embedded in both the consequents and the antecedents of each rule, which can represent uncertain information or knowledge more flexible and reasonable than the previous belief rule base. Then its inference methodology is developed on the interval-valued evidential reasoning (IER) approach. The IRIMER approach improves and extends the recently uncertainty inference methods from the rule representation scheme and the inference framework. Finally, a case is studied to demonstrate the concrete implementation process of the IRIMER approach, and comparison analysis shows that the IRIMER approach is more flexible and effective than the RIMER [J. B. Yang, J. Liu, J. Wang, H. S. Sii and H. W. Wang, Belief rule-base interference methodology using the evidential reasoning approach-RIMER, IEEE Transaction on Systems Man and Cybernetics Part A-Systems and Humans36 (2006) 266–285.] approach and the ERIMER [J. Liu, L. Martínez, A. Calzada and H. Wang, A novel belief rule base representation, generation and its inference methodology, Knowledge-Based Systems 53 (2013) 129–141.] approach.
Characterization of monoids by condition (GP)
Authors: Abbasi Mahdiyeh , Golchin Akbar , Saany Hossein Mohammadzadeh
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we introduce a generalization of Condition [Formula: see text], called Condition [Formula: see text], and will characterize monoids by this condition of their right (Rees factor) acts. Furthermore, we will show that Conditions [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are interpolation type conditions for strong flatness.
Maps preserving Jordan triple product on the self-adjoint elements of C∗-algebras
Authors: Taghavi Ali
Published: June 2016

Let [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] be two unital [Formula: see text]-algebras with unit [Formula: see text]. It is shown that the mapping [Formula: see text] which preserves arithmetic mean and Jordan triple product is a difference of two Jordan homomorphisms provided that [Formula: see text]. The structure of [Formula: see text] is more refined when [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text]. Furthermore, if [Formula: see text] is a [Formula: see text]-algebra of real rank zero and [Formula: see text] is additive and preserves absolute value of product, then [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] (respectively, [Formula: see text]) is a complex linear (respectively, antilinear) ∗-homomorphism.
Multi-view collaborative modeling method for complex system
Authors: Huang Xiaodong , Zhang Li , Zhou Jing , Ma Yaofei
Published: June 2016

It is hard to model a complex system by simply combining its partial characteristics. This paper presents a multi-view collaborative modeling method for complex system. Multi users, multi subjects, multi granularities and multi models in complex system modeling are unified to multi views. The principles and schemes for the decomposition of complex systems are introduced. According to the principle of separation of concerns, a complex system can be decomposed to a variety of model views. Collaborative modeling means that the views can be associated and integrated to form complete system model through their semantic. According to the form of representation, the models are generalizes to three kinds, i.e., view models, semantic models and storage models, which provides a unified framework for conversion and mapping between the models. Under the guidance of the method, a tool for the modeling of warship C2 system is developed. Applications show that the tool can support collaborative modeling and design for C2 system outstandingly.
The Long Memory of Order Flow in the Foreign Exchange Spot Market
Authors: Gould Martin D. , Porter Mason A. , Howison Sam D.
Published: June 2016

We study the long memory of order flow for each of three liquid currency pairs on a large electronic trading platform in the foreign exchange (FX) spot market. Due to the extremely high levels of market activity on the platform, and in contrast to existing empirical studies of other markets, our data enables us to perform statistically stable estimation without needing to aggregate data from different trading days. We find strong evidence of long memory, with a Hurst exponent [Formula: see text], for each of the three currency pairs and on each trading day in our sample. We repeat our calculations using data that spans different trading days, and we find no significant differences in our results. We test and reject the hypothesis that the apparent long memory of order flow is an artifact caused by structural breaks, in favor of the alternative hypothesis of true long memory. We therefore conclude that the long memory of order flow in the FX spot market is a robust empirical property that persists across daily boundaries.
Formally Reasoning About Quality
Authors: Almagor Shaull , Boker Udi , Kupferman Orna
Published: June 2016

In recent years, there has been a growing need and interest in formally reasoning about the quality of software and hardware systems. As opposed to traditional verification, in which one considers the question of whether a system satisfies a given specification or not, reasoning about quality addresses the question of
how well
the system satisfies the specification. We distinguish between two approaches to specifying quality. The first,
propositional quality
, extends the specification formalism with propositional quality operators, which prioritize and weight different satisfaction possibilities. The second,
temporal quality
, refines the “eventually” operators of the specification formalism with discounting operators, whose semantics takes into an account the delay incurred in their satisfaction.

In this article, we introduce two quantitative extensions of Linear Temporal Logic (LTL), one by propositional quality operators and one by discounting operators. In both logics, the satisfaction value of a specification is a number in [0, 1], which describes the quality of the satisfaction. We demonstrate the usefulness of both extensions and study the decidability and complexity of the decision and search problems for them as well as for extensions of LTL that combine both types of operators.
Attenuated rapid onset vasodilation with greater force production in skeletal muscle of caveolin-2−/− mice
Authors: Fernando Charmain A. , Liu Yajun , Sowa Grzegorz , Segal Steven S.
Published: June 2016

Caveolin-2 (Cav2) is a major protein component of caveolae in membranes of vascular smooth muscle and endothelium, yet its absence alters the ultrastructure of skeletal muscle fibers. To gain insight into Cav2 function in skeletal muscle, we tested the hypothesis that genetic deletion of Cav2 would alter microvascular reactivity and depress contractile function of skeletal muscle in vivo. In the left gluteus maximus muscle (GM) of anesthetized Cav2−/− and wild-type (WT) male mice (age, 6 mo), microvascular responses to physiological agonists and to GM contractions were studied at 34°C. For feed arteries (FA), first- (1A), second- (2A) and third-order (3A) arterioles, respective mean diameters at rest (45, 35, 25, 12 μm) and during maximal dilation (65, 55, 45, 30 μm) were similar between groups. Cumulative dilations to ACh (10−9 to 10−5 M) and constrictions to norepinephrine (10−9 to 10−5 M) were also similar between groups, as were steady-state dilations during rhythmic twitch contractions (2 and 4 Hz; 30 s). For single tetanic contractions (100 Hz; 100, 250, and 500 ms), rapid onset vasodilation (ROV) increased with contraction duration throughout networks in GM of both groups but was reduced by nearly half in Cav2−/− mice compared with WT mice ( P < 0.05). Nevertheless, maximal force during tetanic contraction was ∼40% greater in GM of Cav2−/− vs. WT mice (152 ± 14 vs. 110 ± 3 mN per square millimeter, respectively; P < 0.05). Thus, while structural and functional properties of resistance networks are well maintained in the GM of Cav2−/− mice, diminished ROV with greater force production reveals novel physiological roles for Cav2 in skeletal muscle.
Interactions between the colonic transcriptome, metabolome, and microbiome in mouse models of obesity-induced intestinal cancer
Authors: Pfalzer Anna C. , Kamanu Frederick K. , Parnell Laurence D. , Tai Albert K. , Liu Zhenhua , Mason Joel B. , Crott Jimmy W.
Published: June 2016

Obesity is a significant risk factor for colorectal cancer (CRC); however, the relative contribution of high-fat (HF) consumption and excess adiposity remains unclear. It is becoming apparent that obesity perturbs both the intestinal microbiome and metabolome, and each has the potential to induce protumorigenic changes in the epithelial transcriptome. The physiological consequences and the degree to which these different biologic systems interact remain poorly defined. To understand the mechanisms by which obesity drives colonic tumorigenesis, we profiled the colonic epithelial transcriptome of HF-fed and genetically obese (DbDb) mice with a genetic predisposition to intestinal tumorigenesis (Apc1638N); 266 and 584 genes were differentially expressed in the colonic mucosa of HF and DbDb mice, respectively. These genes mapped to pathways involved in immune function, and cellular proliferation and cancer. Furthermore, Akt was central within the networks of interacting genes identified in both gene sets. Regression analyses of coexpressed genes with the abundance of bacterial taxa identified three taxa, previously correlated with tumor burden, to be significantly correlated with a gene module enriched for Akt-related genes. Similarly, regression of coexpressed genes with metabolites found that adenosine, which was negatively associated with inflammatory markers and tumor burden, was also correlated with a gene module enriched with Akt regulators. Our findings provide evidence that HF consumption and excess adiposity result in changes in the colonic transcriptome that, although distinct, both appear to converge on Akt signaling. Such changes could be mediated by alterations in the colonic microbiome and metabolome.
Analysis of Shoreline Change along Cape Coast-Sekondi Coast, Ghana
Authors: Dadson Ishmael Yaw , Owusu Alex Barimah , Adams Osman
Published: June 2016

The two most important factors constantly impinging on the net movement of shorelines are erosion and accretion. This study analyzed the role of erosion and accretion in shoreline changes along the coast between Cape Coast and Sekondi in the central and western regions of Ghana, respectively. Aerial photographs, satellite images, and topographical maps were used. In addition, field survey using Global Positioning System (GPS) was conducted at selected locations due to the unavailability of satellite image for 2013. Shoreline change analysis was conducted using Digital Shoreline Analysis Systems based on End Point Rate formula. In addition, community interactions were also conducted to get first-hand information from the local inhabitants. The study finds that the shoreline under study has been fluctuating. The sea advanced inland between 1972 and 2005, which is attributed mainly to intense erosion. The study further reveals that, in the past five years, the shoreline had been retreating mainly due to increased accretion. It is recommended that the shoreline under study should be monitored regularly to keep abreast with net movements that will occur in either the short term or the long term so as to factor the net effect into the management of the coastal zone.
An Efficient Plot Fusion Method for High Resolution Radar Based on Contour Tracking Algorithm
Authors: Yan Bo. , Xu L. P. , Zhao Kun , Yan J. Z. H.
Published: June 2016

With the development of radar system, the problem of enormous raw data has drawn much attention. A plot fusion method based on contour tracking algorithm is proposed to detect extended targets in a radar image. Firstly, the characteristic of radar image in complex environment is revealed. Then, the steps of traditional method, region growing method, and the proposed method are introduced. Meanwhile, the algorithm of tracking the contour of an extended target is illustrated in detail. It is not necessary to scan all the plots in the image, because the size of target is considered in the proposed method. Therefore, the proposed method is much more efficient than several existing methods. Lastly, the performance of several methods is tested using the raw data of two scenarios in real world. The experiment results show that the proposed method is practical and most likely to satisfy the real-time requirement in various complex environment.
Bone Mineral Status in Children and Adolescents with Klinefelter Syndrome
Authors: Stagi Stefano , Di Tommaso Mariarosaria , Manoni Cristina , Scalini Perla , Chiarelli Francesco , Verrotti Alberto , Lapi Elisabetta , Giglio Sabrina , Dosa Laura , de Martino Maurizio
Published: June 2016

Objective. Klinefelter syndrome (KS) has long-term consequences on bone health. However, studies regarding bone status and metabolism during childhood and adolescence are very rare.Patients. This cross-sectional study involved 40 (mean age:13.7±3.8years) KS children and adolescents and 80 age-matched healthy subjects. For both patient and control groups, we evaluated serum levels of ionised and total calcium, phosphate, total testosterone, luteinising hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, parathyroid hormone (PTH), 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, osteocalcin, bone alkaline phosphatase, and urinary deoxypyridinoline concentrations. We also calculated thez-scores of the phalangeal amplitude-dependent speed of sound (AD-SoS) and the bone transmission time (BTT).Results. KS children and adolescents showed significantly reduced AD-SoS (p<0.005) and BTT (p<0.0005)z-scores compared to the controls. However, KS patients presented significantly higher PTH (p<0.0001) and significantly lower 25(OH)D (p<0.0001), osteocalcin (p<0.05), and bone alkaline phosphatase levels (p<0.005). Interestingly, these metabolic bone disorders were already present in the prepubertal subjects.Conclusions. KS children and adolescents exhibited impaired bone mineral status and metabolism with higher PTH levels and a significant reduction of 25-OH-D and bone formation markers. Interestingly, this impairment was already evident in prepubertal KS patients. Follow-ups should be scheduled with KS patients to investigate and ameliorate bone mineral status and metabolism until the prepubertal ages.
Multimodality Treatment in Ewing’s Sarcoma Family Tumors of the Maxilla and Maxillary Sinus: Review of the Literature
Authors: Thorn David , Mamot Christoph , Krasniqi Fatime , Metternich Frank , Prestin Sven
Published: June 2016

The Ewing sarcoma family of tumors (ESFT) encompasses a group of highly aggressive, morphologically similar, malignant neoplasms sharing a common spontaneous genetic translocation that affect mostly children and young adults. These predominantly characteristic, small round-cell tumors include Ewing’s sarcoma of the bone and soft tissue, as well as primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNETs) involving the bone, soft tissue, and thoracopulmonary region (Askin’s tumor). Extraosseous ESFTs are extremely rare, especially in the head and neck region, where literature to date consists of sporadic case reports and very small series. We hereby present a review of the literature published on ESFTs reported in the maxilla and maxillary sinus region from 1968 to 2016.
Improving the Distributed Hydrological Model Performance in Upper Huai River Basin: Using Streamflow Observations to Update the Basin States via the Ensemble Kalman Filter
Authors: Liu Yongwei , Wang Wen , Hu Yiming , Cui Wei
Published: June 2016

This study investigates the capability of improving the distributed hydrological model performance by assimilating the streamflow observations. Incorrectly estimated model states will lead to discrepancies between the observed and estimated streamflow. Consequently, streamflow observations can be used to update the model states, and the improved model states will eventually benefit the streamflow predictions. This study tests this concept in upper Huai River basin. We assimilate the streamflow observations sequentially into the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) using the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) to update the model states. Both synthetic experiments and real data application are used to demonstrate the benefit of this data assimilation scheme. The experiment shows that assimilating the streamflow observations at interior sites significantly improves the streamflow predictions for the whole basin. Assimilating the catchment outlet streamflow improves the streamflow predictions near the catchment outlet. In real data case, the estimated streamflow at the catchment outlet is significantly improved by assimilating the in situ streamflow measurements at interior gauges. Assimilating the in situ catchment outlet streamflow also improves the streamflow prediction of one interior location on the main reach. This may demonstrate that updating model states using streamflow observations can constrain the flux estimates in distributed hydrological modeling.
Expression Profile of Cationic Amino Acid Transporters in Rats with Endotoxin-Induced Uveitis
Authors: Hsu Yung-Ray , Chang Shu-Wen , Yang Chang-Hao , Lee Yi-An , Kao Tzu-Yun
Published: June 2016

Purpose. The transcellular arginine transportation via cationic amino acid transporter (CAT) is the rate-limiting step in nitric oxide (NO) synthesis, which is crucial in intraocular inflammation. In this study, CAT isoforms and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression was investigated in endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU).Methods.EIU was induced in Lewis rats by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection. In the treatment group, the rats were injected intraperitoneally with the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib before EIU induction. After 24 hours, leukocyte quantification, NO measurement of the aqueous humor, and histopathological examination were evaluated. The expression of CAT isoforms and iNOS was determined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and immunofluorescence staining. Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) binding activity was evaluated by electrophoretic mobility shift assay. The mouse macrophage cell line RAW 264.7 was used to validate thein vivofindings.Results. LPS significantly stimulated iNOS, CAT-2A, and CAT-2B mRNA and protein expression but did not affect CAT-1 in EIU rats and RAW 264.7 cells. Bortezomib attenuated inflammation and inhibited iNOS, CAT-2A, and CAT-2B expression through NF-κB inhibition.Conclusions.CAT-2 and iNOS, but not CAT-1, are specifically involved in EIU. NF-κB is essential in the induction of CAT-2 and iNOS in EIU.
Niosomes as Nanoparticular Drug Carriers: Fundamentals and Recent Applications
Authors: Ag Seleci Didem , Seleci Muharrem , Walter Johanna-Gabriela , Stahl Frank , Scheper Thomas
Published: June 2016

Drug delivery systems are defined as formulations aiming for transportation of a drug to the desired area of action within the body. The basic component of drug delivery systems is an appropriate carrier that protects the drug from rapid degradation or clearance and thereby enhances drug concentration in target tissues. Based on their biodegradable, biocompatible, and nonimmunogenic structure, niosomes are promising drug carriers that are formed by self-association of nonionic surfactants and cholesterol in an aqueous phase. In recent years, numerous research articles have been published in scientific journals reporting the potential of niosomes to serve as a carrier for the delivery of different types of drugs. The present review describes preparation methods, characterization techniques, and recent studies on niosomal drug delivery systems and also gives up to date information regarding recent applications of niosomes in drug delivery.
Sedative and Anxiolytic‐Like Actions of Ethanol Extract of Leaves of Glinus oppositifolius (Linn.) Aug. DC.
Authors: Moniruzzaman Md. , Sharoti Bhattacharjee Partha , Rahman Pretty Moushumi , Sarwar Hossain Md.
Published: June 2016

Glinus oppositifolius is a small herb, widely used in the traditional medicine of Bangladesh in treatment of a variety of diseases and disorders such as insomnia, pain, inflammation, jaundice, and fever. The present study evaluated the sedative and anxiolytic potentials of the ethanol extract of leaves of G. oppositifolius (EEGO) in different behavioral models in mice. The sedative activity of EEGO was investigated using hole cross, open field, rotarod, and thiopental sodium‐ (TS‐) induced sleeping time determination tests, where the elevated plus maze (EPM) and light‐dark box (LDB) exploration tests were employed to justify the anxiolytic potentials in mice at the doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg. The results demonstrated that EEGO significantly inhibited the exploratory behavior of the animals both in hole cross and in open field tests in a dose‐dependent manner. It also decreased motor coordination and modified TS‐mediated hypnosis in mice. In addition, EEGO showed anxiolytic potential by increasing the number and time of entries in the open arm of EPM, which is further strengthened by increase in total time spent in the light part of LDB. Therefore, this study suggests the sedative and anxiolytic properties of the leaves of G. oppositifolius and supports the traditional use of this plant in treatment of different psychiatric disorders including insomnia.
Bone Formation from Porcine Dental Germ Stem Cells on Surface Modified Polybutylene Succinate Scaffolds
Authors: Abay Nergis , Gurel Pekozer Gorke , Ramazanoglu Mustafa , Kose Gamze Torun
Published: June 2016

Designing and providing a scaffold are very important for the cells in tissue engineering. Polybutylene succinate (PBS) has high potential as a scaffold for bone regeneration due to its capacity in cell proliferation and differentiation. Also, stem cells from 3rd molar tooth germs were favoured in this study due to their developmentally and replicatively immature nature. In this study, porcine dental germ stem cells (pDGSCs) seeded PBS scaffolds were used to investigate the effects of surface modification with fibronectin or laminin on these scaffolds to improve cell attachment, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation for tissue engineering applications. The osteogenic potentials of pDGSCs on these modified and unmodified foams were examined to heal bone defects and the effects of fibronectin or laminin modified PBS scaffolds on pDGSC differentiation into bone were compared for the first time. For this study, MTS assay was used to assess the cytotoxic effects of modified and unmodified surfaces. For the characterization of pDGSCs, flow cytometry analysis was carried out. Besides, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) assay, von Kossa staining, real‐time PCR, CM‐Dil, and immunostaining were applied to analyze osteogenic potentials of pDGSCs. The results of these studies demonstrated that pDGSCs were differentiated into osteogenic cells on fibronectin modified PBS foams better than those on unmodified and laminin modified PBS foams.
Oncogenic Deregulation of EZH2 as an Opportunity for Targeted Therapy in Lung Cancer
Authors: Zhang Haikuo , Qi Jun , Reyes Jaime M. , Li Lewyn , Rao Prakash K. , Li Fugen , Lin Charles Y. , Perry Jennifer A. , Lawlor Matthew A. , Federation Alexander , De Raedt Thomas , Li Yvonne Y. , Liu Yan , Duarte Melissa A. , Zhang Yanxi , Herter-Sprie Grit S. , Kikuchi Eiki , Carretero Julian , Perou Charles M. , Reibel Jacob B. , Paulk Joshiawa , Bronson Roderick T. , Watanabe Hideo , Brainson Christine Fillmore , Kim Carla F. , Hammerman Peter S. , Brown Myles , Cichowski Karen , Long Henry , Bradner James E. , Wong Kwok-Kin
Published: June 2016

As a master regulator of chromatin function, the lysine methyltransferase EZH2 orchestrates transcriptional silencing of developmental gene networks. Overexpression of EZH2 is commonly observed in human epithelial cancers, such as non–small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC), yet definitive demonstration of malignant transformation by deregulated EZH2 remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate the causal role of EZH2 overexpression in NSCLC with new genetically engineered mouse models of lung adenocarcinoma. Deregulated EZH2 silences normal developmental pathways, leading to epigenetic transformation independent of canonical growth factor pathway activation. As such, tumors feature a transcriptional program distinct from KRAS- and EGFR-mutant mouse lung cancers, but shared with human lung adenocarcinomas exhibiting high EZH2 expression. To target EZH2-dependent cancers, we developed a potent open-source EZH2 inhibitor, JQEZ5, that promoted the regression of EZH2-driven tumors in vivo, confirming oncogenic addiction to EZH2 in established tumors and providing the rationale for epigenetic therapy in a subset of lung cancer.

Significance: EZH2 overexpression induces murine lung cancers that are similar to human NSCLC with high EZH2 expression and low levels of phosphorylated AKT and ERK, implicating biomarkers for EZH2 inhibitor sensitivity. Our EZH2 inhibitor, JQEZ5, promotes regression of these tumors, revealing a potential role for anti-EZH2 therapy in lung cancer. Cancer Discov; 6(9); 1006–21. ©2016 AACR.

See related commentary by Frankel et al., p. 949.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 932
Effect of Intervention in Mast Cell Function Before Reperfusion on Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats
Authors: Tong Fei , Luo Lei , Liu Daojun
Published: June 2016

Background/Aims: Mast cells are sparsely distributed in the kidneys under normal conditions; however, the number of mast cells increases dramatically during renal ischemia/reperfusion injury (RI/RI). When mast cells are stimulated, numerous mediators are released, and under pathological conditions, they produce a wide range of biological effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of intervention in mast cell function before reperfusion on RI/RI. Methods: Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (n=50) were randomized into five groups: sham group, ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) group, cromolyn sodium treatment group (CS+I/R group), ketotifen treatment group (K+I/Rgroup), and compound 48/80 treatment group (C+I/R group). I/R injury was induced by bilateral renal artery and vein occlusion for 45 min followed by 24 h of reperfusion. The agents were intravenously administered 5 min before reperfusion through the tail vein. The serum levels of blood urea nitrogen(BUN), serum creatinine (Scr) and histamine and the kidney levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were assessed. The expression of intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) in renal tissue was also measured. Results: I/R injury resulted in severe renal injury, as demonstrated by a large increase in injury scores; serum levels of BUN, Scr and histamine; and kidney levels of MDA, TNF-α, and IL-6; this was accompanied by reduced SOD activity and upregulated ICAM-1 expression. Treatment with cromolyn sodium or ketotifen markedly alleviated I/R-mediated kidney injury, whereas compound 48/80 further aggravated kidney injury. Conclusion: Intervention in mast cell activity prior to reperfusionhas a strong effect on RI/RI.
Hepatitis B Virus Core Promoter Double Mutations (A1762T, G1764A) Are Associated with Lower Levels of Serum Dihydrolipoyl Dehydrogenase
Authors: Jiang Zhi-Hua , Chen Qin-Yan , Harrison Tim J. , Li Guo-Jian , Wang Xue-Yan , Li Hai , Hu Li-Ping , Li Kai-Wen , Yang Qing-Li , Tan Chao , Fang Zhong-Liao
Published: June 2016

Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify serum proteins with differential concentrations between hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients and HBsAg asymptomatic carriers among individuals infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) with basal core promoter (BCP) double mutations (A1762T, G1764A). Methods: iTRAQ and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry were used to identify differentially expressed protein, and an ELISA test was used for the validation test. Results: The total number of proteins identified was 1,125, of which 239 showed statistically significant differences in their expression. The relative concentrations of serum dihydrolipoyl dehydrogenase (DLD), which showed the most significant correlation with liver diseases and infection, were significantly lower in HCC patients than asymptomatic HBsAg carriers and individuals negative for HBsAg. However, only the difference between HCC patients with BCP double mutations and HBsAg-negative individuals could be confirmed by ELISA. Meanwhile, we found that the concentrations of serum DLD in those infected with HBV with BCP double mutations were significantly lower than in individuals with the wild-type BCP. However, the difference in the concentrations of serum DLD between individuals with wild-type BCP and those negative for HBsAg was not significant. Conclusions: HBV with BCP double mutations are associated with lower concentrations of serum DLD.
A Function Variant at miR-501 Alters Susceptibility to Hepatocellular Carcinoma in a Chinese Han Population
Authors: Liu Yang , Chai Yi , Zhang Jian , Tang Junwei
Published: June 2016

Backgroud/Aims: Previous studies have shown that miR-501 is involved in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by promoting cell proliferation through CYLD. From the published MirSNP database that enrolls all single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs) of microRNA (miRNA), we found an interesting SNP (rs112489955, G>A) located in the mature region of miR-501. Methods: We performed a case-control study focusing on the predicted SNP located in miRNA-501 to investigate the further relationship of the SNPs with miRNAs among HCC patients. Genotyping, real time PCR assay, cell transfection and the dual luciferase reporter assay were used in our study. Results: Bioinformatic analysis indicated that this SNP would inhibit the binding of miR-501 to CYLD. In a case-control study, subjects with the variant genotypes (AG, GG) showed a significantly increased risk of HCC relative to AA carriers. A significant association of miR-501 variant genotypes with enhanced tumor growth was also observed. Further functional analyses indicated that patients with the AA genotype might attenuate the level of CYLD compared to that regulated by miR-501 with the GG genotype. A dual luciferase reporter assay also confirmed that miR-501 with the A allele had reduced binding to CYLD. We further confirmed a suppression of cell proliferation and promotion of apoptosis in SMMC-7721 and Hep3B cell lines treated with the AA genotype. Conclusions: We identified a novel SNP located in miR-501 acting as an important factor of the HCC susceptibility by modulating miR-501 and CYLD levels.
Serum Soluble Tumor Necrosis Factor-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand Levels in Older Subjects with Dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Tisato Veronica , Rimondi Erika , Brombo Gloria , Volpato Stefano , Zurlo Amedeo , Zauli Giorgio , Secchiero Paola , Zuliani Giovanni
Published: June 2016

Background: The tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) has been involved in both physiological and pathological conditions, including vascular pathologies and pathologies of the central nervous system. Nonetheless, the knowledge about the role of systemic TRAIL in patients affected by different types of dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is still limited. Objective: We assessed serum TRAIL levels in a large cohort of older individuals (n = 644) including patients with late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD), vascular dementia (VAD), ‘mixed' dementia (MIX), MCI, and healthy controls. Methods: Circulating TRAIL was measured by ELISA. Results: At univariate analysis, TRAIL levels were higher in VAD, MIX, and MCI patients compared with LOAD patients and controls. Using the multiple linear regression model, we found that TRAIL levels were associated with VAD and MCI, but not MIX, independent of potential confounding factors. Conclusion: The finding of high levels of circulating TRAIL in VAD and MCI seems to suggest that both of these conditions are characterized by a significant vascular damage with respect to LOAD.
The Relative Functionality of Freshly Isolated and Cryopreserved Human Adipose-Derived Stromal/Stem Cells
Authors: Shah Forum S. , Li Jie , Zanata Fabiana , Curley J. Lowry , Martin Elizabeth C. , Wu Xiying , Dietrich Marilyn , Devireddy Ram V. , Wade James W. , Gimble Jeffrey M.
Published: June 2016

The capability of multipotent mesenchymal stem cells to maintain cell viability, phenotype and differentiation ability upon thawing is critical if they are to be banked and used for future therapeutic purposes. In the present study, we examined the effect of 9-10 months of cryostorage on the morphology, immunophenotype, colony-forming unit (CFU) and differentiation capacity of fresh and cryopreserved human adipose-derived stromal/stem cells (ASCs) from the same donors. Cryopreservation did not reduce the CFU frequency and the expression levels of CD29, CD73, CD90 and CD105 remained unchanged with the exception of CD34 and CD45; however, the differentiation capacity of cryopreserved ASCs relative to fresh cells was significantly reduced. While our findings suggest that future studies are warranted to improve cryopreservation methods and agents, cryopreserved ASCs retain sufficient features to ensure their practical utility for both research and clinical applications.
Polymorphic CAG Repeat Numbers in the Androgen Receptor Gene of Female Pattern Hair Loss in a Han Chinese Population
Authors: Rui Wenlong , Sheng Youyu , Hu Ruiming , Miao Ying , Han Yumei , Qi Sisi , Xu Feng , Xu Jinhua , Yang Qinping
Published: June 2016

Objective: To investigate the association of CAG repeat numbers in the androgen receptor (AR) gene with female pattern hair loss (FPHL) in a Chinese population. Methods: A total of 200 Han Chinese patients with FPHL (142 Ludwig II and 58 Ludwig III cases) and 200 healthy controls were enrolled in this study. The polymorphism of CAG repeat numbers was analyzed by the fluorescent amplified fragment length polymorphism technique. Results: The CAG biallelic mean length was 23.73 ± 2.04 repeats in Han Chinese FPHL patients and 23.90 ± 2.13 repeats in healthy controls, without any significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.481). In addition, neither the shorter nor the longer CAG repeat numbers were significantly different between FPHL and control subjects (p = 0.726, p = 0.383). Conclusion: The polymorphism of CAG repeat numbers of the AR gene may not be the genetic marker of FPHL in a Chinese population.
Decreasing the Uterine Blood Flow with Electroacupuncture: Bidermatomal and Monodermatomal Applications
Authors: Cakmak Yusuf Ozgur , Akpinar Ihsan Nuri , Yoldemir Tevfik
Published: June 2016

Background: Previously we demonstrated a uterine fibroma case in which the decrease in the uterine artery blood flow was obtained with bidermatomal electroacupuncture (EA). A prospective study was conducted to validate the efficacy of bidermatomal and monodermatomal EA applications. Methods: Ten healthy women participated 3 times for 3 steps of the study. Each woman enrolled into a bidermatomal sham control group application, a bidermatomal 80 Hz EA and as a last step, a monodermatomal EA with 80 Hz. Color Doppler ultrasonographic recordings were made to detect baseline blood flow parameters by a pulsatility index (PI), volume flow, area and diameter of each uterine artery and after stimulations. Results: Doppler ultrasonographic recordings demonstrated statistically significant decreases of the blood flow both with bidermatomal (p = 0.03 for the left side PI and p = 0.04 for the right side PI) and monodermatomal EA (p = 0.006 for the left PI and p = 0.002 for the right side PI). The sham control group did not show a significant change in blood flow parameters. Conclusions: The present study validates the efficacy of the bidermatomal but also the monodermatomal EA with 80 Hz on decreasing the blood flow to the uterus.
Unexpected Side Effects of a High S-1 Dose: Subanalysis of a Phase III Trial Comparing Gemcitabine, S-1 and Combinatorial Treatments for Advanced Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Kobayashi Satoshi , Ueno Makoto , Hara Hiroki , Irie Kuniyasu , Goda Yoshihiro , Moriya Satoshi , Tezuka Shun , Tanaka Masao , Okusaka Takuji , Ohkawa Shinichi , Morimoto Manabu
Published: June 2016

Objective: In this subanalysis of a phase III trial using three categorized doses of S-1, the influence of the actual doses on safety and efficacy was evaluated. Methods: We compared the efficacy and safety of the S-1 or gemcitabine plus S-1 combination (GS) arm between the top 10% group and the bottom 10% group according to the initial doses of S-1: ≥77.6 versus ≤65.9 mg/m2/day (n = 28 vs. 28) in the S-1 arm, and ≥65.1 versus ≤53.8 mg/m2/day (n = 27 vs. 28) in the GS arm. Results: Overall and progression-free survival were not significantly different between these two groups: hazard ratios of 0.818 and 0.761 with p values of 0.498 and 0.330 in the S-1 arm, and hazard ratios of 0.836 and 0.759 with p values of 0.557 and 0.323 in the GS arm, respectively. Incidences of grade 3-4 hematological toxicities were significantly higher in the top 10% group than in the bottom 10% group: 42.9 versus 14.3 and 85.2 versus 57.1%, with p values of 0.037 and 0.037 in the S-1 and the GS combination arm, respectively. Conclusions: Higher actual doses of S-1 were associated with a higher incidence of hematological toxicity even in the same dose setting.
Safety Outcomes Using a Proximal Protection Device in Carotid Stenting of Long Carotid Stenoses
Authors: Atchaneeyasakul Kunakorn , Khandelwal Priyank , Ambekar Sudheer , Ramdas Kevin , Guada Luis , Yavagal Dileep
Published: June 2016

Background: Embolic protection devices can prevent atherosclerotic emboli during carotid stenting. Newer proximal protection devices reverse flow in the internal carotid artery (ICA), leading to reduction in perioperative microemboli. The risk of stroke is high for carotid stenting of ICA lesions with a length >10 mm and/or angiographic string sign. Objective: We aimed to evaluate the safety outcomes of proximal embolic protection device usage in this high-risk group. Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent carotid stenting procedures with proximal embolic protection devices at a tertiary care center. High-risk features for adverse events with carotid stenting were identified. Peri- and postprocedural outcomes were recorded. We further compared outcomes in patients with a carotid stenosis length >10 mm to those with shorter stenosis. Results: From January 2011 to December 2014, we included 27 patients; 96.3% were symptomatic and 3.7% were asymptomatic. There was a stent placement technical success rate of 100%. No major stroke or coronary events were recorded. One minor stroke event developed in one patient. A carotid lesion length >10 mm and/or angiographic string sign was noted in 21/27 patients, with an average lesion length of 14.4 mm. One patient (4.8%) in this group developed a minor stroke event. Neither a coronary nor a major stroke event was recorded in this group. There was no significant difference in the complication rate between the long lesion and the control group. Conclusion: In our patient cohort, it was found that a proximal embolic protection device is safe for patients with carotid stenosis, including those with a carotid lesion length >10 mm and/or angiographic string sign.
Hyaluronic Acid Predicts Postoperative Large Amount of Ascites after Liver Resection for Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Shimizu Takayuki , Ishizuka Mitsuru , Kato Masato , Aoki Taku , Kubota Keiichi
Published: June 2016

Background/Aims: Postoperative large amount of ascites (PLA) is a postoperative complication in patients undergoing liver resection (LR) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and can lead to poor prognosis. The purpose of this study is to investigate predictor and prognosis of patients with PLA. Methods: Four hundred HCC patients undergoing LR were divided into 2 groups: Group A, patients without PLA; Group B, patients with PLA. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the clinical features associated with PLA and to compare the survival between Groups A and B. Results: Multivariate analysis revealed that body mass index (≤22 kg/m2), albumin (≤3.5 g/dl), hyaluronic acid (HA; >200 ng/ml), bleeding (>620 ml) and total intraoperative in-out balance (>5.0 ml/kg/h) were associated with PLA. HA (>200 ng/ml) was the most useful predictor of PLA, because the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of HA was the highest among these 5 features. The relapse-free, cancer-specific and overall survival rates were poorer in Group B than in Group A. Conclusion: The serum HA level (>200 ng/ml) is a useful predictor of PLA in HCC patients undergoing LR. As PLA leads to poor prognosis, the surgical method for HCC patients with an elevated serum HA level should be carefully considered.
Left Renal Vein Compression and Horseshoe Kidney: An Extraordinary Association
Authors: Guvendi Bulent , Ogul Hayri
Published: June 2016

Objective: Our aim was to report the importance of an awareness of renal artery variations if surgical procedures are indicated in this region. Presentation and Intervention: A 41-year-old female patient was admitted to our hospital for preoperative staging of the rectum carcinoma. A computed tomography (CT) scan clearly revealed the presence of normally positioned small right and left renal arteries, and a large aberrant renal artery originating from the distal abdominal aorta in a case with a horseshoe kidney (HSK). A multidetector CT angiography was performed using a 256-detector row CT scanner to obtain an image of vascular structures and associated pathologies. Conclusion: In this patient with HSK, the left renal vein compression was unusual and the CT examination provided a good delineation of vascular and urinary tract anomalies.
Hematological and biochemical reference values for C57BL/6, Swiss Webster and BALB/c mice
Authors: Santos Ed Wilson , Oliveira Dalila Cunha de , Hastreiter Araceli , Silva Graziela Batista da , Beltran Jackeline Soares de Oliveira , Tsujita Maristela , Crisma Amanda Rabelo , Neves Silvânia Meiry Peris , Fock Ricardo Ambrósio , Borelli Primavera
Published: June 2016

O uso de animais na pesquisa científica tem contribuído significativamente para o desenvolvimento da ciência, promovendo vários avanços na compreensão da maquinaria metabólica, bem como a descoberta de tratamentos e medidas preventivas aplicadas à medicina humana e veterinária. O desenvolvimento e utilização de métodos alternativos é encorajado, no entanto, em algumas situações, ainda é necessária a utilização de animais em conformidade com termos éticos. Estabelecer valores de referência hematológicos e bioquímicos para animais de laboratório é essencial para avaliar alterações funcionais, no entanto, existem poucos dados na literatura sobre estes valores, sendo fundamentalmente uma base comparativa. O presente trabalho foi delineado para estabelecer valores de referência hematológicos e bioquímicos em linhagens camundongos utilizados em pesquisa científica. Foram avaliados o perfil sanguíneo (hemograma, reticulócitos e mielograma) e a determinação bioquímica sérica de proteínas totais, albumina, glicose, colesterol, triglicerídeos, cálcio e fósforo. Foram utilizados camundongos C57BL/6, BALB/c e Swiss Webster, do sexo masculino, 2-3 meses de idade. Os resultados padronizam intervalos de referência em camundongos criados em Biotério, refletindo a condição esperada nesses animais submetidos à investigação científica.
Circulating Chemerin Is Associated With Carotid Plaque Instability, Whereas Resistin Is Related to Cerebrovascular Symptomatology
Authors: Gasbarrino Karina , Mantzoros Christos , Gorgui Jessica , Veinot John P. , Lai Chi , Daskalopoulou Stella S.
Published: June 2016

Objective—

The rupture of unstable carotid atherosclerotic plaques is one of the main causes of cerebrovascular ischemic events. There is need for circulating markers that can predict plaque instability and risk of stroke. Proinflammatory chemerin, leptin, and resistin, along with anti-inflammatory adiponectin, are adipokines with direct influence on vascular function. We investigated the association of circulating adipokines with carotid plaque instability and cerebrovascular symptomatology.

Approach and Results—

Neurologically symptomatic and asymptomatic patients (n=165) scheduled for carotid endarterectomy were recruited. Fasting blood samples were collected preoperatively; adiponectin and leptin levels were determined by radioimmunoassay; and chemerin and resistin levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The instability of plaque specimens was assessed using gold-standard histological classifications. Chemerin was significantly associated with plaque instability. The fully adjusted model, accounting for age, sex, body mass index, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and circulating adiponectin, leptin, and resistin, yielded an odds ratio of 0.991 (95% confidence interval 0.985–0.998) for plaque instability per unit increase in chemerin. High leptin levels were significantly associated with presence of specific features of plaque instability. In subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus, resistin levels were significantly elevated in symptomatic when compared with asymptomatic subjects (
P
=0.001) and increased the risk of cerebrovascular symptomatology (adjusted odds ratio 1.264, 95% confidence interval 1.004–1.594).

Conclusions—

Low chemerin and high resistin levels were associated with carotid disease severity, suggesting that these adipokines may act as potential markers for plaque instability and stroke risk. Future studies are needed to assess causation between circulating adipokines and plaque instability.