bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation of Material Removal Process in EDM with Composite Tools
Authors: Zhang Shengfang , Zhang Wenchao , Wang Puyong , Liu Yu , Ma Fujian , Yang Dapeng , Sha Zhihua
Published: February 2019

With the development of (electrical discharge machining) EDM technology, composite tools with special features gradually replace the traditional single-material tools and have become widely used in specific processing conditions. In order to predict the wear of composite tool effectively, in this paper, a material removal model of single-pulse EDM with composite tools was established by using the finite element method. The surface temperature distribution of the composite tool was obtained by taking the copper-die steel tool as the analysis object. And the shape of discharge crater as well as the removal volume was obtained by the element birth and death method. The influences of discharge parameters and tool materials on the removal volume were analyzed respectively. The EDM experiments were carried out by using copper-die steel as the composite tool to verify the simulation results. It shows that the errors between actual machining results and the simulation results are less than 10%, which proves the accuracy of the simulation model.
Organ-Sparing Surgery for a Giant Verrucous Carcinoma of the Penile Shaft: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Philippou Prodromos , Kitsios Christos , Miliatou Maria , Poullou Christiana , Konstantinou Pavlos
Published: February 2019

Verrucous Carcinoma is a rare but well-differentiated variant of penile squamous cell carcinoma. Its clinical presentation is usually that of an exophytic cauliflower-like lesion with a broad-based growth pattern. We herein report the case of a 61-year-old man who presented with a giant verrucous carcinoma occupying the dorsal surface of the penile shaft. The patient underwent penile-sparing surgery, achieving both disease control and organ preservation. We discuss relevant issues, including clinical features, diagnosis, surgical management, and prognosis and we review the rather sparse literature regarding this rare lesion.
Leukemia Inhibitory Factor Receptor Is Involved in Apoptosis in Rat Astrocytes Exposed to Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation
Authors: Huo Liang , Fan Yuying , Wang Hua
Published: February 2019

Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (Lifr) protect CNS cells, specifically neurons and myelin-sheath oligodendrocytes, in conditions of oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD). In the case of astrocyte apoptosis resulting from reperfusion injury following hypoxia, the function of the Lifr remains to be fully elucidated. This study established models ofin vivoischemia/reperfusion (I/R) using anin vitromodel of OGD to investigate the direct impact of silencing the Lifr on astrocyte apoptosis. Astrocytes harvested from newborn Wistar rats were exposed to OGD. Cell viability and apoptosis levels were determined by the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay and annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining assays, respectively. Apoptosis was further investigated by the TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labelling (TUNEL) assay. A standard western blotting protocol was applied to determine levels of the protein markers Bcl2, Bax, p-Akt/Akt, p-Stat3/Stat3, and p-Erk/Erk. The cell viability assay (MTT) showed that astrocyte viability decreased in response to OGD. Furthermore, blocking RNA to silence the Lifr further reduces astrocyte viability and increases levels of apoptosis as detected by annexin V/PI double staining. Likewise, western blotting after Lifr silencing demonstrated increased levels of the apoptosis-related proteins Bax and p-Erk/Erk and correspondingly lower levels of Bcl2, p-Akt/Akt, and p-Stat/Stat3. The data gathered in these analyses indicate that the Lifr plays a pivotal role in the astrocyte apoptosis induced by hypoxic/low-glucose environments. Further investigation of the relationship between apoptosis and the Lifr may provide a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of neurological injuries.
Evaluation of Root Canal Morphology of Maxillary First Premolars by Cone Beam Computed Tomography in Saudi Arabian Southern Region Subpopulation: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Maghfuri Shadia , Keylani Husain , Chohan Hitesh , Dakkam Salha , Atiah Aeshah , Mashyakhy Mohammed
Published: February 2019

Introduction. The aim of this study was to investigate the root canal morphology of maxillary first premolars in Saudi Arabian subpopulation by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).Methods. One hundred maxillary first premolars were collected from the College of Dentistry at Jazan University and different dental centers in the southern region of Saudi Arabia. These teeth were cleaned thoroughly and were mounted in a plastic artificial mandible jaw to mimic soft tissue which was then placed in a water container. The 3D scan images were obtained with CBCT imaging (3D Accuitomo170) and evaluated on the basis of the number of roots, number of canals, and root canal configuration using Vertucci’s classification.Results. Out of the 100 maxillary first premolars, the majority of teeth had 2 roots (61%) followed by (36%) one root. Two canals were the most predominant with 97% and then 3% three canals, and no tooth presented with one canal. Type IV canal configuration was most prevalent (75%) followed by Type V (13%).Conclusions. The CBCT provides enhanced and accurate information of root morphology, canal configuration, and its variations, thereby constituting an excellent alternative for radiographic diagnosis tool in the dental practice.
Evaluation of Quality Parameters and Shelf Life of Thai Pork Scratching “Kaeb Moo”
Authors: Kitpot Thanapon , Sriwattana Sujinda , Angeli Sergio , Thakeow Prodpran
Published: February 2019

Fried foods are one of the most favorite products worldwide because of their typical flavor and crispness. In Thailand, one of the most popular traditional foods is “Kaeb Moo,” a fried pork rind product typical of the Northern Region and widely consumed across the whole country. In this research, we monitored the quality change of Kaeb Moo during storage for 1 month and predicted the consumers’ acceptance measuring texture, moisture contents, malondialdehyde (MDA) and hexanal contents, and peroxide values (PV) of frying oil, as this fried product undergoes a rapid hydrolysis and rancidity. The analyses were done on three types of Kaeb Moo: the first type was prepared in the lab using high-quality products, while the other two types were purchased from local markets in Thailand. It was found that rancidity variation during storage strongly depends on the frying process and product quality, as in 31 days the hexanal content only doubled (225%) in Kaeb Moo type 1, while reached 542% and 962%, in Kaeb Moo type 2 and type 3, respectively. The increase of rancidity was observed even if the peroxide values of frying oil were under the national regulation. At the end of shelf life, the properties of Kaeb Moo samples from predicting equations were as follows: 3.67–6.01% moisture contents, 0.396–0.503 µg/g MDA contents, 0.342–0.481 mg/kg hexanal contents, 50.01–60.08 kg·s linear distances (crispness), 36.01–48.83 mm rancid rating, and 43.72–45.38 mm crispness rating.
Clinical and Immunohistochemical Features of Oral Angioleiomyoma: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature and Report of a Case in a Young Patient
Authors: Giudice Amerigo , Bennardo Francesco , Buffone Caterina , Brancaccio Ylenia , Plutino Francesca Maria , Fortunato Leonzio
Published: February 2019

Angioleiomyoma (AL) is an uncommon benign soft tissue neoplasia arising from the tunica media of the smooth muscle cells. AL appears as a solitary and slow-growing mass and seldom is observed in oral tissues. We reported a rare case of AL involving the cheek of a 17-year-old young woman. A review of the English-language literature was performed entering the keywords “angioleiomyoma” and “oral” in the search fields of PubMed. 70 results were identified. Excluded were cases that were not in the oral cavity or not compatible with the AL diagnosis or report lacking immunohistochemical analysis. According to the exclusion criteria, we selected 30 studies that included 63 cases of AL. The results of the review showed an average age of 42.97 years with a prevalence between the fourth and fifth decade of life with a male-to-female ratio of 1.95 : 1. The most affected sites were palate, buccal mucosa of the cheek, lip, tongue, and gingiva. Surgical excision was the treatment of choice, and diagnosis was possible through histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis. SMA, vimentin, CD34, desmin, and S-100 were the most common markers to guide the histopathological diagnosis of oral AL. In conclusion, oral AL is a rare entity, especially in adolescence as in the reported case of AL of the cheek in a 17-year-old woman. The clinical aspects of AL did not allow clinicians to make a correct presumptive diagnosis. A scrupulous histopathological analysis and immunohistochemical examinations are fundamental to differentiate AL from other lesions.
Edge Caching for D2D Enabled Hierarchical Wireless Networks with Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Li Wenkai , Wang Chenyang , Li Ding , Hu Bin , Wang Xiaofei , Ren Jianji
Published: February 2019

Edge caching is a promising method to deal with the traffic explosion problem towards future network. In order to satisfy the demands of user requests, the contents can be proactively cached locally at the proximity to users (e.g., base stations or user device). Recently, some learning-based edge caching optimizations are discussed. However, most of the previous studies explore the influence of dynamic and constant expanding action and caching space, leading to unpracticality and low efficiency. In this paper, we study the edge caching optimization problem by utilizing the Double Deep Q-network (Double DQN) learning framework to maximize the hit rate of user requests. Firstly, we obtain the Device-to-Device (D2D) sharing model by considering both online and offline factors and then we formulate the optimization problem, which is proved as NP-hard. Then the edge caching replacement problem is derived by Markov decision process (MDP). Finally, an edge caching strategy based on Double DQN is proposed. The experimental results based on large-scale actual traces show the effectiveness of the proposed framework.
Performance Optimization and Verification of a New Type of Solar Panel for Microsatellites
Authors: Teng L. , Zheng X. D. , Jin Zh. H.
Published: February 2019

In this paper, a new method of replacing the conventional honeycomb aluminum panel with 3D metal printing on the microsatellite is presented. The multiobjective optimization method is used to optimize the temperature difference, compression strength, shear strength, and weight of the new type of solar panel structure. The relationships between the structural parameters and optimization targets are established, and the influence of five factors on thermal and structural properties is analyzed. Finally, a group of better structural parameters of the panel is obtained. The relative deviations between simulation analysis and model are 27.45%, 6.12%, 1.365%, and 3.27%, respectively. The optimization results show that the regression model can be used to predict thermal and structural properties of the panel, and the establishment of the model is effective. The analysis results show that the performances can be improved by 91.62%, 46.94%, 17.91%, and 10.28%, respectively. The optimized results are used for 3D metal printing, and the new type of solar panel is obtained. It is proved that the method can effectively improve the thermal and structural properties of the panel and can effectively shorten the development and manufacture cycle of the panel and also reduce the cost. It has high engineering application value.
A Low-Cost Closed-Loop Solar Tracking System Based on the Sun Position Algorithm
Authors: Chowdhury Muhammad E. H. , Khandakar Amith , Hossain Belayat , Abouhasera Rayaan
Published: February 2019

Sun position and the optimum inclination of a solar panel to the sun vary over time throughout the day. A simple but accurate solar position measurement system is essential for maximizing the output power from a solar panel in order to increase the panel efficiency while minimizing the system cost. Solar position can be measured either by a sensor (active/passive) or through the sun position monitoring algorithm. Sensor-based sun position measuring systems fail to measure the solar position in a cloudy or intermittent day, and they require precise installation and periodic calibrations. In contrast, the sun position algorithms use mathematical formula or astronomical data to obtain the station of the sun at a particular geographical location and time. A standalone low-cost but high-precision dual-axis closed-loop sun-tracking system using the sun position algorithm was implemented in an 8-bit microcontroller platform. The Astronomical Almanac’s (AA) algorithm was used for its simplicity, reliability, and fast computation capability of the solar position. Results revealed that incorporation of the sun position algorithm into a solar tracking system helps in outperforming the fixed system and optical tracking system by 13.9% and 2.1%, respectively. In summary, even for a small-scale solar tracking system, the algorithm-based closed-loop dual-axis tracking system can increase overall system efficiency.
Shuangyu Tiaozhi Granule Attenuates Hypercholesterolemia through the Reduction of Cholesterol Synthesis in Rat Fed a High Cholesterol Diet
Authors: Shi Jingjing , Li Ruoqi , Liu Yi , Lu Haifei , Yu Lu , Zhang Fengxia
Published: February 2019

Shuangyu Tiaozhi Granule (STG) is composed of two kinds of Chinese medicinal herbs in dioscorea, which are used for managing cholesterol levels in patients with hypercholesterolemia in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). However, the potential molecular mechanisms of administration of STG in hypercholesterolemia remain unknown. In this study, we investigated the effects of STG on hepatic cholesterol metabolism in high cholesterol (HC) diet-induced hypercholesterolemic rat models and simvastatin was used as a positive control. Male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were fed general or HC diet, respectively. After 4 weeks of feeding, HC diet-induced hypercholesterolemic rats were fed HC diet, STG at 5% (w/w) or 10% (w/w) mixed in the HC diet, or HC diet combined with simvastatin gavages (4 mg·kg−1·d−1) for 4 or 8 weeks. STG treatment decreased body weight gain, liver weight ratio, serum lipids levels and hepatic lipids accumulation in rats fed a HC diet. Moreover, the effects of STG on decreasing body weight and lowering liver cholesterol levels were in dose- and time-dependent. Furthermore, STG or simvastatin treatment decreased the mRNA and protein levels of HMGCR and SREBP-2 in liver. The ACAT-2 and CYP7A1 mRNA expression were significantly decreased in HC diet supplemented with STG, while the mRNA levels of LDLR were markedly increased. STG attenuates hypercholesterolemia via inhibiting SREBP-2 signaling pathway activation and increasing hepatic uptake genes expression, providing a novel idea of TCM keeping cholesterol levels down for the clinical application.
Effect of Alumina Contents on the Physicomechanical Properties of Alumina (Al2O3) Reinforced Polyester Composites
Authors: Latief Fahamsyah H. , Chafidz Achmad , Junaedi Harri , Alfozan Adel , Khan Rawaiz
Published: February 2019

Polyester-based composites filled with various contents of alumina (Al2O3) (i.e., 0, 1, 5, and 10 vol%) have been fabricated in this study. Physical and mechanical properties of the composites have also been analysed. The analysis results showed that the experimental density of the polyester/alumina composites was smaller than the theoretical density, which could be attributed to the formation of voids during preparation of the composites. Meanwhile, the tensile strength, stiffness, and hardness of the composites increased with increasing alumina content, while the strain-at-break of the composites decreased. It was observed that the composites containing 5 vol% of alumina had the best tensile strength, stiffness, and hardness. The uniform distribution and dispersion of alumina particles were likely responsible for the improvement of the mechanical properties. In other hand, small decrease in tensile strength, stiffness, and hardness of composite was found in the composites with 10 vol% of alumina. The formation of agglomerates and voids was believed to be the main factor for the decrease of the both properties.
Characteristics, Risk Factors, and Adverse Outcomes of Hyperkalemia in Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure Patients
Authors: Cai Jun-jun , Wang Kai , Jiang Hui-qing , Han Tao
Published: February 2019

Background. Hyperkalemia is a serious complication in cirrhotic patients. However, the clinical characteristics, risk factors, and its impact on the outcomes in acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) patients remain unclear. Methods. We retrospectively recruited 650 ACLF patients in this study. The risk factors associated with hyperkalemia and its relationship with 90-day mortality were analyzed using multivariable regression models. Results. Among 650 patients with ACLF, 12.2% (79/650) had hyperkalemia during hospitalization. Higher admission serum potassium levels and the presence of acute kidney injury (AKI) were independent risk factors for hyperkalemia. The prevalence rates of hyperkalemia in patients with and without AKI were 23.6% and 4.6%, respectively (P<0.001). Hyperkalemia was a predictor of mortality in AKI and non-AKI patients. The 90-day mortality rates in non-AKI patients with and without hyperkalemia were 44.4% and 24.7%, respectively (P<0.001), and in AKI patients with and without hyperkalemia were 80.3% and 56.6%, respectively (P<0.001). Hepatic encephalopathy (HE), gastrointestinal bleeding, AKI, hyperkalemia, elevated total bilirubin (TBIL) and international normalized ratio (INR) values, and higher Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) and chronic liver failure-sequential organ failure assessment (CLIF-SOFA) scores were independent risk factors for predicting the 90-day mortality in ACLF patients. Conclusions. Hyperkalemia increases the 90-day mortality in ACLF patients; hyperkalemia is associated with AKI. Patients with both AKI and hyperkalemia had the worst outcome.
miR-155 Predicts Long-Term Mortality in Critically Ill Patients Younger than 65 Years
Authors: Tacke Frank , Spehlmann Martina E. , Vucur Mihael , Benz Fabian , Luedde Mark , Cardenas David Vargas , Roy Sanchari , Loosen Sven , Hippe Hans-Joerg , Frey Norbert , Trautwein Christian , Koch Alexander , Roderburg Christoph , Luedde Tom
Published: February 2019

Introduction. Alterations in miR-155 serum levels have been described in inflammatory and infectious diseases. Moreover, a role for miR-155 in aging and age-related diseases was recently suggested. We therefore analyzed a potential age-dependent prognostic value of circulating miR-155 as a serum-based marker in critical illness. Methods. Concentrations of circulating miR-155 were determined in 218 critically ill patients and 76 healthy controls. Results. By using qPCR, we demonstrate that miR-155 serum levels are elevated in patients with critical illness when compared to controls. Notably, levels of circulating miR-155 were independent on the severity of disease, the disease etiology, or the presence of sepsis. In the total cohort, miR-155 was not an indicator for patient survival. Intriguingly, when patients were subdivided according to their age upon admission to the ICU into those younger than 65 years, lower levels of miR-155 turned out as a strong marker, indicating patient mortality with a similar accuracy than other markers frequently used to evaluate critically ill patients on a medical ICU. Conclusion. In summary, the data provided within this study suggest an age-specific role of miR-155 as a prognostic biomarker in patients younger than 65 years. Our study is the first to describe an age-dependent miRNA-based prognostic biomarker in human diseases.
Determination of Six Macrolide Antibiotics in Chicken Sample by Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry Based on Solid Phase Extraction
Authors: Lan Chen , Yin Dan , Yang Zhicong , Zhao Wuduo , Chen Yanlong , Zhang Wenfen , Zhang Shusheng
Published: February 2019

In this paper, a simple and effective method for the determination of six macrolide antibiotics (MACs), including tylosin, tilmicosin, azithromycin, clarithromycin, roxithromycin, and kitasamycin, in the chicken sample using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was developed based on a self-built porous aromatic framework- (PAF-) based solid phase sorbent. The main parameters influencing the extraction efficiency, such as sorbent amounts, type of the eluent, pH of the sample, and the eluent volume, were evaluated. Under the optimized condition, the limits of detection were from 0.2 to 0.5 μg·kg−1. The recoveries of the method ranged from 82.1% to 101.4% with the relative standard deviations less than 11.1%. All the results demonstrated that the established method is potential for the determination of macrolide antibiotics in food safety analysis and monitoring.
Phenotypic Analysis of BrdU Label-Retaining Cells during the Maturation of Conducting Airway Epithelium in a Porcine Lung
Authors: Jia Yuanyuan , You Xuehong , Ma Ningxia , Li Hui , Liu Guopan , Wang Ying , Xue Jing , Shi Juan , Wei Jun , Li Yong , Yang Jiali , Liu Xiaoming
Published: February 2019

Stem/progenitor cells have recently been demonstrated to play key roles in the maturation, injury repair, and regeneration of distinct organs or tissues. Porcine has spurred an increased interest in biomedical research models and xenotransplantation, owing to most of its organs share similarities in physiology, cellular composition and size to humans. Therefore, characterization of stem/progenitor cells in porcine organs or tissues may provide a novel avenue to better understand the biology and function of stem cells in humans. In the present study, potential stem/progenitor cells in conducting airway epithelium of a porcine lung were characterized by morphometric analysis of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) label-retaining cells (LRCs) during the maturation of the lung. The results showed a pseudostratified mucociliary epithelium comprised of basal, ciliated, goblet, and columnar cells in the conducting airway of a porcine lung. In addition, the majority of primary epithelial cells able to proliferate in vitro expressed keratin 5, a subpopulation of these keratin 5-positive cells, also expressed CD117 (c-Kit) or CD49f (integrin alpha 6, ITGA6), implying that they might be potential epithelial stem/progenitor cells in conducting airway of a porcine lung. Lineage tracing analysis with a BrdU-labeled neonatal piglet showed that the proportion of BrdU-labeled cells in conducting airways decreased over the 90-day period of lung maturation. The BrdU-labeled epithelial cells also expressed keratin 14, mucin 5AC, or prosurfactant protein C (ProSP-C); among them, the keratin 14-positive cells were the most frequent BrdU-labeled epithelial cell type as determined by immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining. This study may provide valuable information on the biology and function of epithelial stem/progenitor cells in conducting airway of pigs and humans.
Daptomycin-Induced Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES)
Authors: Bitar De Zayas-Enriquez A. , Soper C.
Published: February 2019

Aims. To present a 60-year-old female patient who manifested clinical and radiological features of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) following the administration of Daptomycin for glycopeptide-resistant Enterococcal urinary tract infection. Material. Case report. Method. Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome was diagnosed in our patient following the administration of Daptomycin based on clinical suspicion as well as brain CT and MRI imaging. Results. The temporal association between the initiation of Daptomycin and the onset of PRES is highly suggestive of causality, and this is further supported by clinical and radiological resolution after Daptomycin was withdrawn. Conclusion. This is the first report of Daptomycin-induced posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome.
The (De)confinement Transition in Tachyonic Matter at Finite Temperature
Authors: Issifu Adamu , Brito Francisco A.
Published: February 2019

We present a QCD motivated model that mimics QCD theory. We examine the characteristics of the gauge field coupled with the color dielectric function (G) in the presence of temperature (T). The aim is to achieve confinement at low temperatures T<Tc, (Tc is the critical temperature), similar to what occurs among quarks and gluons in hadrons at low energies. Also, we investigate scalar glueballs and QCD string tension and effect of temperature on them. To achieve this, we use the phenomenon of color dielectric function in gauge fields in a slowly varying tachyon medium. This method is suitable for analytically computing the resulting potential, glueball masses, and the string tension associated with the confinement at a finite temperature. We demonstrate that the color dielectric function changes Maxwell’s equation as a function of the tachyon fields and induces the electric field in a way that brings about confinement during the tachyon condensation below the critical temperature.
Nonlinear Stability of Oblate Infinitesimal in Elliptic Restricted Three-Body Problem Influenced by the Oblate and Radiating Primaries
Authors: Narayan A. , Chakraborty A. , Dewangan A.
Published: February 2019

This work deals with the nonlinear stability of the elliptical restricted three-body problem with oblate and radiating primaries and the oblate infinitesimal. The stability has been analyzed for the resonance cases around ω1=2ω2 and ω1=3ω2 and also the nonresonance cases. It was observed that the motion of the infinitesimal in this system shows instable behavior when considered in the third order resonance. However, for the fourth order resonance the stability is shown for some mass parameters. The motion in the case of nonresonance was found to be unstable. The problem has been numerically applied to study the movement of the infinitesimal around two binary systems, Luyten-726 and Sirius.
Development of Postpartum Depression in Pregnant Women with Preeclampsia: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Chen Li , Wang Xiaodan , Ding Qian , Shan Nan , Qi Hongbo
Published: February 2019

Background. Postpartum depression (PPD) and preeclampsia (PE) are both common diseases in obstetrics that affect maternal health and infant development. However, the relationship between the two diseases still requires clarification. Objective. The purpose of this study was to (1) determine the incidence rate of PPD in patients with PE and (2) identify the association between the prevalence of PPD and the severity of PE. Methods. We conducted a retrospective analysis of women with and without PE who delivered between January 1, 2017, and August 30, 2018, in the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University. We used a questionnaire survey methodology that included the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) to test the influence of PE on the development of new-onset PPD in the 6 weeks after delivery. We determined PPD based on a score ≥10 on the EPDS. Bivariate analysis was used to compare data between the two groups. Results. A total of 180 women participated in this study. Thirty-five people screened positive for PPD, while the remaining 145 screened negative. The prevalence of PPD was 26.67% (24/90) in patients with PE, which was two times the prevalence in normal women (12.22%). Multiple logistic regression showed that women who had PE had nearly 3-fold increased odds of PPD compared to normal women and the risk of PPD increased with the aggravation of PE. Patients with severe PE had a more than 4-fold increased risk of screening positive for PPD. Conclusion. PE was independently associated with PPD. Furthermore, the risk of PPD seemed to increase with the aggravation of PE. Thus, additional prevention efforts and support methods should be provided for women with PE to reduce the incidence of PPD.
HDAC1 Is a Required Cofactor of CBFβ-SMMHC and a Potential Therapeutic Target in Inversion 16 Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Richter Lisa E. , Wang Yiqian , Becker Michelle E. , Coburn Rachel A. , Williams Jacob T. , Amador Catalina , Hyde R. Katherine
Published: February 2019

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a neoplastic disease characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation and accumulation of immature myeloid cells. A common mutation in AML is the inversion of chromosome 16 [inv (16)], which generates a fusion between the genes for core binding factor beta (CBFB) and smooth muscle myosin heavy chain gene (MYH11), forming the oncogene CBFB-MYH11. The expressed protein, CBFβ-SMMHC, forms a heterodimer with the key hematopoietic transcription factor RUNX1. Although CBFβ-SMMHC was previously thought to dominantly repress RUNX1, recent work suggests that CBFβ-SMMHC functions together with RUNX1 to activate transcription of specific target genes. However, the mechanism of this activity or a requirement for additional cofactors is not known. Here, we show that the epigenetic regulator histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) forms a complex with CBFβ-SMMHC, colocalizes with RUNX1 and CBFβ-SMMHC on the promoters of known fusion protein target genes, and that Hdac1 is required for expression of these genes. These results imply that HDAC1 is an important component of the CBFβ-SMMHC transcriptional complex, and that leukemia cells expressing the fusion protein may be sensitive to treatment with HDAC1 inhibitors. Using a knock-in mouse model expressing CBFβ-SMMHC, we found that in vivo treatment with the HDAC1 inhibitor entinostat decreased leukemic burden, and induced differentiation and apoptosis of leukemia cells. Together, these results demonstrate that HDAC1 is an important cofactor of CBFβ-SMMHC and a potential therapeutic target in inv (16) AML.

Implications:

This report describes a novel role for HDAC1 as a cofactor for the leukemogenic fusion protein CBFβ-SMMHC and shows that inhibitors of HDAC1 effectively target leukemia cells expressing the fusion protein in vivo.
Opposing Roles of the Forkhead Box Factors FoxM1 and FoxA2 in Liver Cancer
Authors: Chand Vaibhav , Pandey Akshay , Kopanja Dragana , Guzman Grace , Raychaudhuri Pradip
Published: February 2019

The forkhead box transcription factor FoxM1 is essential for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development, and its overexpression coincides with poor prognosis. Here, we show that the mechanisms by which FoxM1 drives HCC progression involve overcoming the inhibitory effects of the liver differentiation gene FoxA2. First, the expression patterns of FoxM1 and FoxA2 in human HCC are opposite. We show that FoxM1 represses expression of FoxA2 in G1 phase. Repression of FoxA2 in G1 phase is important, as it is capable of inhibiting expression of the pluripotency genes that are expressed mainly in S–G2 phases. Using a transgenic mouse model for oncogenic Ras-driven HCC, we provide genetic evidence for a repression of FoxA2 by FoxM1. Conversely, FoxA2 inhibits expression of FoxM1 and inhibits FoxM1-induced tumorigenicity. Also, FoxA2 inhibits Ras-induced HCC progression that involves FoxM1.

Implications:

The observations provide strong genetic evidence for an opposing role of FoxM1 and FoxA2 in HCC progression. Moreover, FoxM1 drives high-grade HCC progression partly by inhibiting the hepatocyte differentiation gene FoxA2.
Bilateral Syphilitic Optic Neuropathy with Secondary Autoimmune Optic Neuropathy and Poor Visual Outcome
Authors: Kowalski Tanya , Fuzzard Dujon  , Williams Isla , Darby Jonathan , Mack Heather Gwen
Published: February 2019

We describe the case of a 65-year-old man who suffered progressive visual loss despite appropriate treatment of ocular syphilis. Our patient initially presented with a unilateral 6th nerve palsy and associated double vision, which self-resolved over 6 months. His ophthalmic examination was otherwise normal. 12 months after the initial complaint, he represented with dyschromatopsia, reduced visual acuity, tonic pupils, and optic nerve atrophy. He tested positive for syphilis and was admitted for treatment of neurosyphilis with high-dose benzylpenicillin. Despite treatment, at a 4-month review his visual acuity remained poor and progression of optic nerve atrophy was noted alongside the development of bilateral central scotomas. Further testing was congruent with a diagnosis of autoimmune optic retinopathy. We propose this to be secondary to his syphilitic infection. Syphilis is known as the “great mimicker,” and despite being quite treatable, this case highlights ongoing complexity in the diagnosis and management of syphilis, unfortunately with a poor visual outcome.
Genistein Protects H9c2 Cardiomyocytes against Chemical Hypoxia-Induced Injury via Inhibition of Apoptosis
Authors: Shi Ya-Ning , Zhang Xiu-Qin , Hu Zhe-Yu , Zhang Chan-Juan , Liao Duan-Fang , Huang Hong-Lin , Qin Li
Published: February 2019

Background/Aims: Hypoxia can induce cell injury in cardiomyocytes and further lead to cardiovascular diseases. Genistein (Gen), the predominant isoflavone found in soy products, has shown protective effects on cardiovascular system. The aim of the present study was to investigate the cardioprotective effect of Gen against chemical hypoxia-induced injury. Methods: Cobalt chloride (CoCl2) was administrated to trigger chemical hypoxia in H9c2 cardiomyocytes. Cell proliferation was detected by using MTT assay. The expression level of hypoxia-related proteins (hypoxia-inducible factor [HIF]-1α and Notch-1) and apoptosis-related proteins (B cell lymphoma [Bcl]-2, Bax, and caspase-3) were evaluated by Western blot analysis. Results: In response to hypoxia, cell viability was reduced dramatically, whereas the expression of HIF-1α was upregulated. Hypoxia also induced cardiomyocytes apoptosis by reducing the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax and increasing expression of caspase-3. Interestingly, Gen attenuated CoCl2-induced cell death and suppressed HIF-1α expression, as well as upregulated the expression of Notch-1. Furthermore, Gen could antagonize CoCl2-induced apoptosis through upregulating Bcl-2/Bax ratio and inhibiting caspase-3 expression. Conclusions: Gen prevents chemical hypoxia-induced cell apoptosis through inhibition of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, exerting protective effects on H9c2 cardiomyocytes.
A Fast Decline of Residual Renal Function in the First Year is a Predictor for Early Withdrawal from Peritoneal Dialysis in Non-Diabetic Patients
Authors: Wang Junni , Xie Xishao , Yan Xingqun , Yang Xin , Zhang Xiaohui , Chen Jianghua , Han Fei
Published: February 2019

Background/Aims: Little is known about the relationship between residual renal function (RRF) decline in early period and survival in non-diabetic peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Methods: A total of 567 non-diabetic patients who began PD from January 1, 2005 to June 30, 2013 was investigated. The rate of RRF decline was determined by the “slope of the trend equation” of serial RRFs. A composite end-point of all-cause mortality and conversion to hemodialysis (HD) was used, survival status was censored on June 30, 2016. Results: The median of “the slope of RRF decline equation” was 0.308 (0.001-2.111) ml/min/1.73 m2/ month. In the median follow-up period of 43 months (range 12 to 120 months), 65 (11.5%) patients died, 90 (15.9%) patients converted to HD and 171 (30.2%) patients received kidney transplantation. Multivariate linear regression showed male, high baseline RRF, high baseline peritoneal Kt/V urea, low serum albumin and low uric acid were independently associated with the rate of RRF decline in the first year of PD. Multivariate Cox models revealed that RRF decline in the first year remained a predictor for composite end-point (HR, 2.74, 95% CI, 1.53 to 4.90, P=0.001). The patients were divided into high RRF decline group (> 0.308ml/ min/1.73m2/month) and low RRF decline group (≤0.308 ml/min/1.73m2/month). In the first three years of PD, the rate of end-point events was higher in high RRF decline group (23.2%) than that in low RRF decline group (11.0%) (P< 0.001). There were 189 patients in low RRF decline group and 171 patients in high RRF decline group maintaining PD for more than 3 years, in a median follow-up of 54 months (range 37 to 120 months), the survival rate was 30.9% in high RRF decline group and 46.4% in low RRF decline group (P=0.883). In high RRF decline group, there were 92 patients reaching composited end-point and 112 patients maintaining PD; multivariate Cox model showed high peritoneal Kt/V urea after 1 year of PD and high albumin level were protective factors (HR, 0.29, 95% CI, 0.13 to 0.61, P= 0.001; HR, 0.94, 95% CI, 0.90-0.99, P=0.022, respectively), while fast RRF decline remained risk factor for composite end-point (HR, 3.28, 95% CI,1.48-7.31, P=0.004). Conclusion: A faster RRF decline in the first year was a predictor for all-cause mortality and conversion to HD in non-diabetic PD patients, mainly in the first three year. For patients with faster RRF decline, increasing PD dose was effective to improve survival.
Increased Microalbuminuria Risk in Male Cigarette Smokers: Results from the “Olivetti Heart Study” after 8 Years Follow-Up
Authors: Barbato Antonio  , D’Elia Lanfranco  , Perna Ludovica  , Molisso Anna  , Iacone Roberto  , Strazzullo Pasquale  , Galletti Ferruccio 
Published: February 2019

Background/Aims: Association between cigarette smoke and albuminuria (UA) was already demonstrated in cross-sectional studies and in selected population samples (i.e diabetic patients). This study aims to evaluate, prospectively, the relationship between cigarette smoke and UA in a male adult population sample, with basal normal kidney function, participating in the Olivetti Heart Study (OHS). Methods: Among 994 participants, examined in both 1994-95 and 2002-04, were selected those resulted in both visits smokers (n=221) and non-smokers (n=416) and with basal normal kidney function (GFR> 60 mL/min) and basal albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR< 30 mg/g). Results: At baseline, the prevalence of hypertension was 41%, diabetes affected 6.3% and obesity 17% of the whole sample. Smokers showed statistically significant lower levels of systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and BMI (p< 0.001) compared to non-smokers. There were not basal differences in UA, GFR and metabolic profile. However, at follow-up examination, smokers showed a statistically significant increase in SBP and DBP (p< 0.05), but not in GFR and BMI. Moreover, smokers showed a higher risk compared to non-smokers to be in the higher median levels group of UA (OR: 2.17, C.I.95%: 1.51-3.13; p < 0.001), even after correction for major confounding factors. Further adjustment for basal antihypertensive and hypoglycemic treatment did not change these patterns of association. Conclusion: In a selected male adult population sample, cigarette smoke was independently associated with the development of higher levels of albuminuria over time.
СТАН АДЕНІЛАТНОЇ СИСТЕМИ ЕРИТРОЦИТІВ ЩУРІВ-САМОК ПІД ВПЛИВОМ ТЕСТОСТЕРОНУ ТА ЕСТРАДІОЛУ ЗА УМОВ ЕКСПЕРИМЕНТАЛЬНОГО ГІПЕРАКТИВНОГО СЕЧОВОГО МІХУРА
Authors: Iatsyna O. I. , Vastianov R. S. , Diachkova N. V. , Kharkhota M. A.
Published: February 2019

Вступ. Поширеність симптомокомплексу гіперактивного сечового міхура (ГАСМ), особливо серед жінок перед- та менопаузального віку, складність лікування зумовлені тим, що механізми його розвитку остаточно не визначено. Застосування в клінічній практиці гормональних препаратів потребує патогенетичного обґрунтування. Зазначені процеси вимагають єдиного підходу до їх уточнення, що диктує необхідність створення експериментальної моделі з дослідженням аденілової системи.

Мета дослідження – вивчити зміну кількісних показників аденілатної системи еритроцитів щурів-самок при корекції експериментального гіперактивного сечового міхура тестостероном та естрадіолом.

 Методи дослідження. Досліди проводили на 50 щурах-самках лінії Вістар, яких поділили на 4 групи: 1-ша (n=10) – інтактні тварини; 2-га (n=10) – тварини з експериментальним ГАСМ, яким фармакологічної корекції не проводили; 3-тя (n=20) – тварини, яким моделювали ГАСМ, у цій групі формували 2 підгрупи і виконували корекцію тестостероном та естрадіолом відповідно; 4-та (n=10) – тварини, яким вводили композицію тестостерону й естрадіолу. Статеві гормони вводили в дозах 1,0 мг/особину тестостерону і 0,2 мг/особину естрадіолу з розрахунку на середню масу. Гіперактивний сечовий міхур моделювали шляхом внутрішньочеревного введення препарату “Хомвіотензін” (Німеччина) щодня протягом 2-х тижнів у дозі 0,45 мг/кг маси тіла з розрахунку на діючу речовину резерпін. У крові, використовуючи хроматограф Agilent 1200 (Agilent Technologies, США), визначали вміст аденілових нуклеотидів (АТФ, АДФ, АМФ) та їх співвідношення.

Результати й обговорення. Встановлено суттєве порушення вмісту аденілових нуклеотидів при ГАСМ: вірогідне зниження рівня АТФ та АМФ при підвищенні АДФ, що сприяло різкому зменшенню загального вмісту досліджуваних нуклеотидів на 50,2 %. Під впливом тестостерону та естрадіолу відновлювались кількісні показники вмісту АТФ, АДФ та АМФ в еритроцитах, що свідчило про протекторну дію статевих гормонів на енергетичний профіль.

Висновок. При експериментальному гіперактивному сечовому міхурі виявлено різке зниження рівня АТФ і АМФ та підвищення рівня АДФ, що викликало динамічні коливання енергетичного заряду й енергетичного клітинного потенціалу. Це свідчить про розвиток дефіциту високоенергетичних фосфатних сполук, підтверджуючи виснаження аденілатної системи АТФ – АДФ – АМФ при ГАСМ. Андроген-естрогенна дія при експериментальному гіперактивному сечовому міхурі проявляє патогенетичну спрямованість протекторного впливу на відновлення енергетичних ресурсів клітин, нормалізуючи всі компоненти аденілатної системи еритроцитів, особливо АТФ.
Companion Animals in Health-Promoting Work-Life
Authors: Rambaree Komalsingh , Sjöberg Stefan
Published: February 2019

Despite a growing number of studies on human–animal interactions, empirical data focusing on companion animals within the context of health-promoting work-life are still limited. This article presents an analysis and discussion based on the perceptions of 22 students and staff from the University of Gävle in Sweden on the potential of companion animals for supportive functions in health-promoting work-life, as well as on the possible challenges of having companion animals on the premises of the University. Based on the findings, this article proposes that companion animals can indeed play vital supportive functions in health-promoting work-life, which are presented in the text as “forcing function,” “communication companion,” and “social skills.” However, this article also highlights the socio-economic, legal, and organizational challenges that need to be carefully considered and worked out for having companion animals in the workplace, such as in a university.
Understanding Iranian Livestock Breeders’ Intentions and Behavior Regarding Nonhuman Animal Welfare
Authors: Salari Fatemeh , Yazdanpanah Masoud , Yaghoubi Jafar , Forouzani Masoumeh
Published: February 2019

While there is a large body of literature on the behavior of stockpersons with regard to nonhuman animal welfare in developed countries, no such study has yet been carried out in the developing countries. This study uses an extended model of the Theory of Planned Behavior to predict stockpersons’ intentions and behavior regarding animal welfare. The study was designed as a cross-sectional survey. The population of interest consisted of stockpersons in the Sirjan district in the Kerman province, Iran. We found that attitude, moral norms, and perceived behavioral control are significant predictors of intention regarding animal welfare. These three variables predicted 36% of the variance in animal welfare intentions. Furthermore, regression revealed that intention, moral norms, and perceived behavioral control are significant predictors of behavior regarding animal welfare. These three variables predicted 39% of the variance in animal welfare behavior.
Problem solving capabilities of peach-fronted conures (Eupsittula aurea) studied with the string-pulling test
Authors: Torres Ortiz Sara , Maxwell Alyssa , Krasheninnikova Anastasia , Wahlberg Magnus , Larsen Ole Næsbye
Published: February 2019

The problem-solving capabilities of four small parrots (peach-fronted conures, Eupsittula aurea) were investigated using string-pulling tests. In seven different tasks, one string was baited following a randomized order. The parrots could retrieve the food reward after a wrong choice as the choice was not forced. Additionally, we applied a non-intuitive pulley task with the strings arranged in front of, instead of below the birds. All four parrots performed very well in the multiple, slanted, and broken string tasks, but all failed in the crossed-string task. Only two parrots solved the single pulley task. All four parrots performed successfully in the multiple pulley task but all failed in the broken pulley condition. Our results suggest that peach-fronted conures solve string-pulling tasks without relying on simple proximity based rules, but that they have evolved cognitive abilities enabling goal-directedness, the understanding of functionality, and a concept of connectedness between two objects.
Maternal nest-site choice does not affect egg hatching success in an invasive turtle population
Authors: Lloyd Robin B. , Warner Daniel A.
Published: February 2019

Embryos of many oviparous organisms are sensitive to conditions within their nest, and maternal nesting behaviours could potentially buffer embryos from suboptimal developmental environments. Thus, maternal behaviour could influence how organisms respond to novel environments. We studied an invasive population of red-eared slider turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans) in Oregon, USA to determine if maternal choice of nest microhabitat facilitates development in environments outside the native range. We show that females nested on relatively shallow slopes and used open microhabitats compared to random sites. However, by splitting eggs from clutches between maternally-chosen nests and randomly-selected “nest sites”, we show that egg hatching success was low overall (32.8%) and was not influenced by maternal nest-site choice. Our study highlights the importance of understanding how maternal nesting behaviour and survival during early life stages (e.g., embryos) might contribute to the long-term persistence of invasive populations, which is important for their proper management.
Courtship strategies of white-tailed deer and mule deer males when living in sympatry
Authors: Airst Jason , Lingle Susan
Published: February 2019

Courtship behaviour reflects characteristics of an animal’s general biology, while also reflecting selective pressures specific to reproduction. Mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) and white-tailed deer (O. virginianus) are sister species that differ in antipredator behaviour and sociality. We observed sympatric mule deer and white-tailed males to document their grouping patterns, courtship tactics, and aggressive interactions during the breeding season. Consistent with the hypothesis that courtship strategies reflect species differences in antipredator tactics and sociality, mule deer males were more likely than white-tailed males to tend females in multi male–multi female groups. White-tailed males almost exclusively tended females in isolated pairs and prevented other males from joining their groups. However, both species spent more time in isolated pairs as courtship advanced, likely to reduce competition. Our results enabled us to distinguish courtship behaviours that reflect contrasting antipredator tactics and sociality from courtship behaviours that reflect reproductive selective pressures that the species share.