bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retracted: Knockdown of long non‐coding RNA ANRIL inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion but promotes apoptosis of human glioma cells by upregulation of miR‐34a
Authors: Dong Xuechao , Jin Zheng , Chen Yong , Xu Haiyang , Ma Chengyuan , Hong Xinyu , Li Yunqian , Zhao Gang
Published: October 2017

Gliomas are the most common types of primary central nervous system malignancy found in adults. Long non‐coding RNA antisense non‐coding RNA in the INK4 locus (ANRIL) variants are associated with glioma and miR‐34a is markedly downregulated in U251 glioma cells. The 3′‐untranslated region (3′UTR) of silent information regulator 1 (Sirt1) contains a conserved site that is targeted directly by miR‐34a. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the roles of ANRIL, miR‐34a, and Sirt1 in glioma and their potential interactions. Firstly, expression of ANRIL in normal glia cells and five glioma cell lines was measured. Then, effects of ANRIL suppression on cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion of U251 cells as well as expression of miR‐34a were assessed. Meanwhile, effects of miR‐34a on U251 cells silencing ANRIL were tested. Whether Sirt1 is a target of miR‐34a was verified, followed by estimating the role of Sirt1 overexpression in U251 cells overexpressing miR‐34a. Finally, the involved signaling pathways were assessed. ANRIL was upregulated in glioma cells and its suppression inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion but promoted cell apoptosis. ANRIL acted as a sponge of miR‐34a, and Sirt1 is a target of miR‐34a. Then, Sirt1 was proved to function through activation of the PI3K/AKT and mTOR signaling pathways. In conclusion, ANRIL was upregulated in glioma, and its inhibition could repress cell proliferation, migration and invasion but inhibit cell apoptosis through miR‐34a‐mediated downregulation of Sirt1, involving the inactivation of the PI3K/AKT and mTOR pathways.
Long noncoding RNA HOTTIP promotes endothelial cell proliferation and migration via activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway
Authors: Liao Bihong , Chen Ruimian , Lin Feng , Mai Aihuan , Chen Jie , Li Huimin , Xu Zhenglei , Dong Shaohong
Published: October 2017

Atherosclerosis is the major cause of stroke and heart disease. However, the course and pathogenesis of atherosclerosis remains unknown. The proliferation and migration of endothelial cell play important roles in the inition and pathological progression of atherosclerosis. In this study, we demonstrated that long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) HOXA transcript at the distal tip (HOTTIP) expression level was higher in coronary artery disease (CAD) tissues than in normal arterial tissues. The expression level of HOTTIP was upregulated in the proliferating endothelial cells induced by TNF‐α or PDGF‐BB. Ectopic expression of HOTTIP promoted endothelial cell proliferation and also increased the expression of proliferating makers cyclin D1 and PCNA. Moreover, elevated expression of HOTTIP promoted endothelial cell migration. Downregulation expression of HOTTIP suppressed endothelial cell proliferation and migration. Furthermore, we determined that overexpression of HOTTIP induced β‐catenin expression and enhanced the downstream protein c‐Myc expression in the endothelial cell. Ectopic expression of HOTTIP increased endothelial cell proliferation and migration via activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway. These results suggested that HOTTIP might manipulate the endothelial cell proliferation and migration via activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway.
c‐Abl tyrosine kinase regulates neutrophil crawling behavior under fluid shear stress via Rac/PAK/LIMK/cofilin signaling axis
Authors: Tong Haibin , Qi Dake , Guan Xingang , Jiang Guiquan , Liao Zhiyong , Zhang Xu , Chen Peichao , Li Nan , Wu Mingjiang
Published: October 2017

The excessive recruitment and improper activation of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) often induces serious injury of host tissues, leading to inflammatory disorders. Therefore, to understand the molecular mechanism on neutrophil recruitment possesses essential pathological and physiological importance. In this study, we found that physiological shear stress induces c‐Abl kinase activation in neutrophils, and c‐Abl kinase inhibitor impaired neutrophil crawling behavior on ICAM‐1. We further identified Vav1 was a downstream effector phosphorylated at Y174 and Y267. Once activated, c‐Abl kinase regulated the activity of Vav1, which further affected Rac1/PAK1/LIMK1/cofilin signaling pathway. Here, we demonstrate a novel signaling function and critical role of c‐Abl kinase during neutrophil crawling under physiological shear by regulating Vav1. These findings provide a promising treatment strategy for inflammation‐related disease by inactivation of c‐Abl kinase to restrict neutrophil recruitment.
Retracted: MicroRNA‐21 antisense oligonucleotide improves the sensitivity of A375 human melanoma cell to Cisplatin: An in vitro study
Authors: Zhang Hai‐Lin , Si Lou‐Bin , Zeng Ang , Long Fei , Qi Zheng , Zhao Ru , Bai Ming
Published: October 2017

This study explored Cisplatin resistance effect of microRNA‐21 (miR‐21) antisense oligonucleotide (AS‐ODN) in human melanoma A375 cell. AS‐ODN was transfected in melanoma A375 cells and Cisplatin‐resistant cell line A375/CDDP, and divided into the AS‐ODN, nonsense oligonucleotide (NS‐ODN) and normal groups. Cell ultrastructure changes were observed through transmission electron microscope. MiR‐21 AS‐ODN could be tested cell growth effect in different time periods by trypan blue exclusion. MiR‐21 mRNA expression change was detected by quantitative fluorescence PCR. Cell apoptosis, cycle distribution and miR‐21 AS‐ODN effect on proliferation and Cisplatin sensitivity were tested by flow cytometry, MTT assay, TUNEL, and Clonogenic assay. Cell apoptosis was observed after transfection 24 h with the AS‐ODN group, while the NS‐ODN and normal group cells had no apoptotic symptoms; Compared with the normal group, the AS‐ODN group began to show obvious cell growth inhibition effect after transfection 24 h lasting 72 h (all P < 0.05), but the NS‐ODN group had no significant difference (P > 0.05). miR‐21 mRNA expression in the AS‐ODN group was obviously decreased with rising apoptosis rate (all P < 0.05) and there was no significant difference in the NS‐ODN group (P > 0.05). MiR‐21 AS‐ODN could remarkably increase A375 cell and A375/CDDP cell sensitivity to Cisplatin (P < 0.05), while A375 cell sensitivity to Cisplatin between the NS‐ODN group and the normal group had no difference. MiR‐21 AS‐ODN decreased IC50 and increased Cisplatin sensitivity for A375 cells and A375/CDDP cells, which would be a new target of melanoma treatment.
The MIP‐1α autocrine loop contributes to decreased sensitivity to anticancer drugs
Authors: Tsubaki Masanobu , Takeda Tomoya , Tomonari Yoshika , Mashimo Kenji , Koumoto Yu‐ichi , Hoshida Sachi , Itoh Tatsuki , Imano Motohiro , Satou Takao , Sakaguchi Katsuhiko , Nishida Shozo
Published: October 2017

Several autocrine soluble factors, including macrophage inflammatory protein‐1α (MIP‐1α), tumor necrosis factor‐α, and hepatocyte growth factor, promote cell survival and growth in multiple myeloma (MM) cells. We hypothesized that inhibition of the MIP‐1α autocrine loop may enhance the cytotoxic effect of anticancer drugs in MM cell lines. In the present study, an MIP‐1α neutralizing antibody suppressed cell proliferation and enhanced the cytotoxic effect of melphalan or bortezomib on MM cells. In addition, melphalan resistance cells (RPMI8226/L‐PAM and HS‐sultan/L‐PAM cells) secreted MIP‐1α and neutralizing antibody of MIP‐1α partially overcame melphalan resistance. Moreover, combination treatment with MIP‐1α neutralizing antibody and melphalan or bortezomib inhibited extracellular signal regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), Akt, and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) activation, Bcl‐2, Bcl‐xL, and Survivin expression, and upregulated the expression of Bim and cleaved Poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP). Treatment of IM9 cells with MIP‐1α siRNA suppressed the activation of ERK1/2, Akt, and mTOR, and enhanced the cytotoxic effect of melphalan and bortezomib. These results indicate that MIP‐1α neutralizing antibodies or MIP‐1α siRNA enhance the cytotoxic effect of melphalan and bortezomib by suppressing the chemokine receptor/ERK and chemokine receptor/Akt/mTOR pathways. The inhibition of MIP‐1α may thus provide a new therapeutic approach to control tumor progression and bone destruction in patients with MM.
Mixing characteristics, cell trajectories, pressure loss and shear stress of tubular photobioreactor with inserted self‐rotating helical rotors
Authors: Yan Hua , Guan Changfeng , Jia Yuchuan , Huang Xinxue , Yang Weimin
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Tubular photobioreactors (TPBRs) have great potential in culturing microalgae, but their poor mixing properties make it difficult to increase the surface productivity. In this work, a TPBR with inserted self‐rotating helical rotors, which have been under study for a decade, was designed.

RESULTS

This paper aimed to show hydrodynamic behaviors of gas–liquid in a TPBR with inserted self‐rotating helical rotors by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and visualization experiments. It can be concluded that by assembling self‐rotating helical rotors into the TPBR, very remarkable mixing and particle cycle frequencies were achieved. Besides, the influences of rotor lead and liquid inlet velocity on the swirl number, the gas and liquid average circumferential velocities, pressure loss, cell trajectories and shear stress were also investigated. The best choice was to select a rotor lead of 150 mm and a liquid inlet velocity of 0.4–0.5 m s‐1 for microalgae with strong shear force tolerance. Microalgae cultivation experiments verified that helical rotors had a positive effect on biomass productivity.

CONCLUSION

The results indicated that assembling the self‐rotating helical rotors into TPBR was a feasible and effective method to improve the mixing performance and microalgae productivity. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
The non‐visual opsins: eighteen in the ancestor of vertebrates, astonishing increase in ray‐finned fish, and loss in amniotes
Authors: Beaudry Felix Emile Gastonguay , Iwanicki Tom W. , Mariluz Bertha Ruth Zelada , Darnet Sylvain , Brinkmann Henner , Schneider Patricia , Taylor John Stewart
Published: October 2017

Non‐visual opsins were discovered in the early 1990s. These genes play roles in circadian rhythm in mammals, seasonal reproduction in birds, light avoidance in amphibian larvae, and neural development in fish. However, the interpretation of such studies and the success of future work are compromised by the fact that non‐visual opsin repertoires have not been properly characterized in any of these lineages. Here, we show that non‐visual opsins from tetrapods and ray‐finned fish are distributed among 18 monophyletic subfamilies. An amphibian sequence occurs in every subfamily, whereas mammalian orthologs occur in only seven. Species in the major ray‐finned fish lineages, Holostei, Osteoglossomorpha, Otomorpha, Protacanthopterygii, and Neoteleostei, have large numbers of non‐visual opsins (22–32 genes) as a result of gene duplication events including, but not limited to, the teleost genome duplication (TGD). In contrast to visual opsins, where lineage‐specific duplication is common, the ray‐finned fish non‐visual opsin repertoire appears to have stabilized shortly after the TGD event and consequently even distantly related species have repertoires of similar size and composition. Most non‐visual opsins have been named without the benefit of a phylogenetic perspective and, accordingly, major revisions are proposed.
Synthesis, Antifungal Activity, and SAR Study of Some New 6‐Perfluoropropanyl Quinoline Derivatives
Authors: Fang Yue‐Ming , Zhang Rui‐Rui , Shen Zhong‐Hua , Wu Hong‐Ke , Tan Cheng‐Xia , Weng Jian‐Quan , Xu Tian‐Ming , Liu Xing‐Hai
Published: October 2017

A series of novel quinoline derivatives containing perfluoropropanyl moiety were designed and synthesized. The bioassay results showed that some of them exhibited good control efficacy against Pyricularia oryae. The fungicidal activity was affected by the substituted position in the molecule. It was found that the compound 3n possessed highest control effect against P. oryae at different concentration. It is better than that of control Tebufloquin.
Impact of newly introduced perennial bioenergy crops on soil quality parameters at three different locations in W‐Germany
Authors: Emmerling Christoph , Schmidt Axel , Ruf Thorsten , von Francken-Welz Herbert , Thielen Sebastian
Published: October 2017

The land areas used for bioenergy crop cultivation are increasing across Europe. For several years now, various perennial crops have been cultivated, including Miscanthus, switchgrass and reed canary grass, and the newly introduced cup plant, giant knotweed, tall wheatgrass, virginia mallow, and wild plant mixtures. We investigated the impact that many of these perennial bioenergy crops (PECs) have on the soil organic C and N pools, microbial properties, and earthworm activity at three different study sites in W‐Germany with varying soil conditions after an experimental period of five years. Silage maize (Zea maize) in rotation with green rye (Cecale cereale) or Triticale was used for comparison (= annual energy crops; AEC). The overall intention of this study was to gain insights into the future trends of soil quality with changes in land‐use towards bioenergy production. Our results emphasized that in general, soil quality was improved through the cultivation of perennials. For example, after five years of investigation, the mean soil organic carbon contents increased, on average, by 1–2% at two of the three study sites, the soil microbial biomass increased from 13% (virginia mallow) to 27% (tall wheatgrass) (p < 0.05) compared to AEC treatment and the mean earthworm activity (cast production) was significantly improved in PECs compared to AEC. These trends were mainly found in silty to loamy soils, but the results were slightly different in sandy soils and dry climate conditions. We suggest that this might be traced back to unfavourable growing conditions for perennial crops during the first years of establishment. To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive field investigation of the impact of these newly introduced perennial crops on soil quality indicators that considers various site‐ and soil‐specific growth conditions.
Effective and efficient lymphaticovenular anastomosis using preoperative ultrasound detection technique of lymphatic vessels in lower extremity lymphedema
Authors: Hayashi Akitatsu , Hayashi Nobuko , Yoshimatsu Hidehiko , Yamamoto Takumi
Published: October 2017

Background

Identification of functional lymphatic vessels and localization of lymphatic vessels are important for lymphaticovenular anastomosis (LVA). Indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography is useful for localization of superficial lymphatic vessels where dermal backflow is not observed, but not for lymphatic vessels in deep layer or where dermal backflow is observed. Ultrasound has been applied in LVA and is considered useful for localization of lymphatic vessels with ICG lymphography cannot be visualized.

Methods

Fifty‐five secondary lower extremity lymphedema (LEL) patients who underwent LVA were classified into two groups, ultrasound‐detection‐of‐lymphatic group (US group, n = 29) and non‐ultrasound‐detection‐of‐lymphatic group (non‐US group, n = 26), and assessed. Sensitivity and specificity to detect lymphatic vessel were evaluated in US group. Intraoperative findings, required time for dissecting lymphatic vessels and veins, length of skin incision, and postoperative lymphedematous volume reduction were compared between the groups.

Results

Lymphatic vessels were detected in all incisions in both groups. LVA resulted in 232 anastomoses in US group and 210 anastomoses in non‐US group. Sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound for detection of lymphatic vessels were 88.2% and 92.7%, respectively. Diameter of lymphatic vessels found in US group was significantly larger than that in non‐US group (0.66 ± 0.18 vs 0.45 ± 0.20 mm; P = 0.042). Time required for dissecting lymphatic vessels and veins in US group was shorter than that in non‐US group (9.2 ± 1.7 vs 14.7 ± 2.4 min; P = 0.026). LEL index reduction was significantly greater in US group than that in non‐US group (26.7 ± 13.6 vs 7.8 ± 11.3; P = 0.031).

Conclusions

Ultrasound‐guided detection of lymphatic vessels for lymphedema was performed with high precision, and allows easier and more effective LVA surgery.
Organic matter bioavailability in tropical coastal waters: The Great Barrier Reef
Authors: Lønborg Christian , Álvarez–Salgado Xosé Antón , Duggan Samantha , Carreira Cátia
Published: October 2017

The bioavailability of organic matter (OM) was assessed at three locations during the dry and wet seasons in the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), by measuring changes in particulate organic matter (POM) and dissolved organic matter (DOM) concentrations during laboratory incubations over 50 d. The sites did not show any difference in salinity and, therefore, observed changes could be related to factors such as disparities in the biological activity and/or the impact of sediment resuspension rather than to location. Our results demonstrate that the POM pool has a higher bioavailability than the DOM pool, with the C, N, and P‐containing compounds being more bioavailable than the C and N‐containing molecules, which in turn are more labile than compounds containing just C. The addition of labile POM to the DOM pool did not impact the bioavailability of DOM, suggesting that priming had no major impact on the degradation of this pool in these experiments. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that 94% and 75% of the bioavailable N and P are contained in the organic fraction delivering enough nutrients to sustain phytoplankton productivity in the GBR. Using the obtained degradation rate constants and an average water residence time of 2 weeks, we show that most bioavailable POM (> 96%) and DOM (> 83%) is degraded before reaching the outer shelf. Our results emphasize that OM is a key and mostly unaccounted part of the C, N, and P cycles in tropical coastal waters of the GBR.
Spatiotemporal distribution characteristics and environmental control factors of biogenic dimethylated sulfur compounds in the East China Sea during spring and autumn
Authors: Jian Shan , Zhang Hong‐Hai , Zhang Jing , Yang Gui‐Peng
Published: October 2017

Biogenic dimethylated sulfur compounds could take part in the metabolic process of algal cells and are the key compounds in the biological cycle of sulfur in the marine system. In this study, seasonal and spatial variations of biogenic dimethylated sulfur compounds, including dimethylsulfide (DMS), dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), and oceanographic parameters influencing their concentrations were measured in the East China Sea (ECS) during two cruises from 22 October 2015 to 13 November 2015 and from 31 May 2016 to 14 June 2016. Significant spatial variability was observed in seawater dimethylated sulfur compound concentrations with higher concentration in spring. In most cases, concentrations of DMS, particulate DMSP, and particulate DMSO showed significant relationships with the concentration of chlorophyll a under highly variable hydrographic conditions. In spring, bacterial abundance also significantly influenced DMS distribution. Photodegradation experiments showed that enhanced UV radiation could increase DMS photodegradation rate, and low seawater pH could facilitate DMS degradation rate under UVB radiation while it was decreased under UVA radiation. Preliminary estimates for the sea‐to‐air fluxes of DMS in spring showed a 2.3 μmol m−2 d−1 increase over autumn flux. Compared with total DMS emission of the global ocean to atmosphere, the contribution of the ECS to global DMS emissions was not negligible. At Sta. DH6‐1, the contribution of biological consumption to DMS removal (85%) was higher than those of photolysis (10%) and sea‐to‐air exchanges (4%). These findings reveal that biological consumption probably dominates removal of DMS at this station.
Particle Growth during the Polymerization of Olefins on Supported Catalysts. Part 2: Current Experimental Understanding and Modeling Progresses on Particle Fragmentation, Growth, and Morphology Development
Authors: Alizadeh Arash , McKenna Timothy F. L.
Published: October 2017

The morphology of the growing polymer particles is important in olefin polymerisation on supported catalysts. It has a significant impact on the rate of mass and energy transport, and consequently on the polymerisation rate, comonomer incorporation, and the molecular weight distribution. The ability to quantify the evolution of morphology during the polymerisation process à priori would therefore be quite useful. The morphology itself is a direct product of the fragmentation step and concurrent/subsequent expansion of the particle, both caused by the build‐up and dissipation of hydraulic forces due to the accumulation of polymer in the particle. It is influenced by the initial morphology of the support, as well as the reaction conditions and local polymer properties. The single particle models developed to describe the morphology evolution in a growing particle are reviewed here. The main assumptions, abilities, and limitations of the models are evaluated and the issues which face developing a completely predictive model are finally discussed. Despite some very interesting attempts at morphology modelling in recent years, significant progress still needs to be made in order to develop a fully predictive model of the sort.
Anterior colporrhaphy plus inside‐out tension‐free vaginal tape for associated stress urinary incontinence and cystocele: 10‐year follow up results
Authors: Montera Roberto , Miranda Andrea , Plotti Francesco , Terranova Corrado , Luvero Daniela , Capriglione Stella , Scaletta Giuseppe , Zullo Marzio A. , Buscarini Maurizio , Lopez Salvatore , Gatti Alessandra , Schirò Teresa , De Cicco Nardone Carlo , Angioli Roberto
Published: October 2017

Aims

We report the success rate and complications rate of combined ultralateral anterior Colporrhaphy plus Tension‐free Vaginal Tape (TVT‐O) in a long‐term (10 year) follow‐up prospective survey.

Methods

Patients previously treated for associated stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and cystocele were subjected to annual follow‐up for 10 year with a complete urogynecologic evaluation. Furthermore, an urodynamic assessment and a quality of life questionnaire (ICIQ‐UI SF) were recorded at the 5th and 10th year of follow up.

Results

Fifty patients treated between June 2004 and May 2006 were included in the analysis. Five patients did not return to 5‐yr follow‐up: two patients developed a median tape erosion and three patients withdraw. At 10‐yr follow‐up two more patients withdraw for a total of seven patients lost to follow‐up. After 10 years patients objectively cured from cystocele were 41 (95%) while patients objectively cured from SUI were 39 (91%). At 10th year follow‐up 38 patients (89%) result cured from both SUI and cystocele, 3 (7%) patients result cured only from prolapse, 1 (2%) patient only from SUI, and 1 (2%) patient result objectively failed for both SUI and cystocele. The ICIQ‐UI SF scores at 10th year follow‐up was 6.2 ± 3.7. The late complication rate at 10th year follow‐up was 32% (OAB symptoms 20%; Mixed incontinence 2%; Bladder outlet obstruction 0%; Dyspareunia 6%; Chronic pelvic pain 0%; Vaginal tape erosion 4%; Detrusor hyperactivity 0%).

Conclusions

The combined procedures shown proved to be an effective and safe procedure to treat concomitant SUI and cystocele.
Proton therapy for pediatric head and neck malignancies
Authors: Vogel Jennifer , Both Stefan , Kirk Maura , Chao Hann‐Hsiang , Bagatell Rochelle , Li Yimei , Womer Richard , Balamuth Naomi , Reilly Anne , Kurtz Goldie , Lustig Robert , Tochner Zelig , Hill‐Kayser Christine
Published: October 2017

Purpose

Pediatric head and neck malignancies are managed with intensive multimodality therapy. Proton beam therapy (PBT) may reduce toxicity by limiting exposure of normal tissue to radiation. In this study, we report acute toxicities and early outcomes following PBT for pediatric head and neck malignancies.

Materials and methods

Between 2010 and 2016, pediatric patients with nonhematologic malignancies of the head and neck were treated with PBT. Clinical and dosimetric data were abstracted from the medical record and treatment planning system with institutional review board approval.

Results

Sixty‐nine consecutive pediatric patients were treated with proton‐based radiotherapy for head and neck malignancies. Thirty‐five were treated for rhabdomyosarcoma to a median dose of 50.4 Gy relative biological effectiveness [RBE]. Ten patients were treated for Ewing sarcoma to a median dose of 55.8 Gy[RBE]. Twenty‐four patients were treated for other histologies to a median dose of 63.0 Gy[RBE]. Grade 3 oral mucositis, anorexia, and dysphagia were reported to be 4, 22, and 7%, respectively. Actuarial 1‐year freedom from local recurrence was 92% (95% CI 80–97). Actuarial 1‐year overall survival was 93% (95% CI 79–98) in the entire cohort. Oral cavity mucositis was significantly correlated with oral cavity dose (D80 and D50 [P < 0.05], where D80 and D50 are dose to 50% of the volume and dose to 80% of the volume, respectively).

Conclusions

In this study, we report low rates of acute toxicity in a cohort of pediatric patients with head and neck malignancies. PBT appears safe for this patient population, with local control rates similar to historical reports. Longer follow‐up will be required to evaluate late toxicity and long‐term disease control.
Incidence of and Risk Factors for Severe Adverse Events in Elderly Patients Taking Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitors or Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers after an Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Fang Gang , Annis Izabela E. , Farley Joel F. , Mahendraratnam Nirosha , Hickson Ryan P. , Stürmer Til , Robinson Jennifer G.
Published: October 2017

Study Objective

To assess the incidence of and risk factors associated with severe adverse events in elderly patients who used angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) after an acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Data Sources

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Chronic Conditions Data Warehouse (Medicare service claims database), American Community Survey of the U.S. Census Bureau, and Multum Lexicon Drug database.

Patients

A total of 101,588 eligible Medicare fee‐for‐service beneficiaries 66 years or older, who were hospitalized for AMI between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2009, and used ACEIs or ARBs within 30 days after discharge.

Measurements and Main Results

Primary outcomes were hospitalizations for acute renal failure (ARF) and hyperkalemia. The secondary outcome was discontinuation or suspension of ACEI/ARB therapy after a visit to a health care provider. The primary risk factors of interest were age, sex, race/ethnicity, and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Cumulative incidence curves and multivariable Fine‐Gray proportional hazards models with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used with death as a competing risk in both intention‐to‐treat (ITT) and as‐treated (AT) analyses. In the study cohort, 2.8% experienced ARF, 0.5% experienced hyperkalemia, and 63.7% discontinued ACEI/ARB therapy within 1 year after hospital discharge. Approximately half of the incidence of ARF and hyperkalemia occurred within 6 months after hospital discharge, but the cumulative incidence increased after 6 months. Patients older than 85 years had a higher rate of ARF (ITT hazard ratio [HR] 1.15, 95% CI 1.04–1.28) and hyperkalemia (ITT HR 1.33, 95% CI 1.05–1.68) compared with those aged 65–74 years. Patients with baseline CKD had higher rates of ARF (ITT HR 1.61, 95% CI 1.42–1.82), hyperkalemia (ITT HR 1.41, 95% CI 1.11–1.77), and ACEI/ARB therapy discontinuation or suspension (ITT HR 1.05, 95% CI 1.02–1.09).

Conclusion

We found a low incidence of ARF and hyperkalemia in elderly patients treated with ACEIs or ARBs after AMI hospitalization. However, a high rate of treatment discontinuation might prevent a higher rate of occurrence of these events. Long‐term careful monitoring of severe adverse events and timely discontinuation of ACEIs or ARBs among elderly patients with advancing age and CKD after an AMI is warranted in clinical practice.
Nitric oxide for the treatment of preterm infants with severe RDS and pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Dani Carlo , Corsini Iuri , Cangemi Jessica , Vangi Venturella , Pratesi Simone
Published: October 2017

Background

Inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) cannot be recommended for the routine treatment of respiratory failure in premature neonates, but it has been suggested that the effectiveness of iNO therapy should be further studied in more select preterm infants, such as those with persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN).

Objective

To evaluate the frequency of PPHN in very preterm infants with severe respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), to assess the effectiveness of iNO in these patients, and to individuate possible predictive factors for the response to iNO in preterm infants with RDS.

Study Design

We retrospectively studied infants <30 weeks of gestational age or birth weight <1250 g, who were affected by severe RDS and treated with iNO during the first week of life. Clinical characteristics of infants with or without echocardiographic diagnosis of PPHN were compared, as well as those of responder or no responder to iNO therapy. Effectiveness of iNO was evaluated by recording changes of MAP, FiO2, SpO2/FiO2 ratio, and oxygenation index (OI) before, and 3 ± 1, 6 ± 1, 12 ± 3, 24 ± 6, 48 ± 6, and 72 ± 12 h after beginning therapy.

Results

We studied 42 (4.6%) infants, of whom 28 (67%) had PPHN and 14 (33%) did not. iNO therapy was associated with improved oxygenation in both the groups but it was quicker in the PPHN than in the no PPHN group. Multivariate analysis showed that FiO2 >0.65, diagnosis of PPHN, and birth weight >750 g independently predicts effectiveness of iNO in very preterm infants with RDS.

Conclusion

We found that PPHN is a frequent complication of severe RDS in very preterm infants and iNO therapy can improve their oxygenation earlier than in infants without PPHN. iNO therapy is not recommended for the routinely treatment of RDS in premature neonates but in cases of concurrent diagnosis of PPHN it should be considered carefully.
Intersection of Proteomics and Genomics to “Solve the Unsolved” in Rare Disorders such as Neurodegenerative and Neuromuscular Diseases
Authors: Roos Andreas , Thompson Rachel , Horvath Rita , Lochmüller Hanns , Sickmann Albert
Published: October 2017

Despite recent rapid advances in sequencing technologies, a significant proportion of patients with rare genetic disorders do not receive a genetic diagnosis after exhaustive testing, and even fewer have a potential therapeutic target identified. Taking rare neuromuscular and neurodegenerative disorders as a paradigm that can be extended to other rare Mendelian disorders, this viewpoint explores the opportunities that are brought about by the integration of genomics and proteomics, as well as the limitations and remaining challenges of this newly emerging field of proteogenomics. The relevance of combining proteomic findings with genetic results for diagnosis and gene discovery is illustrated, highlighting the insights the combined analysis provides into the underlying biology and aetiology as well as the limitations of the experimental techniques. A final discussion focuses on the importance of mechanisms to enable the sharing, reuse, and analysis of source experimental data and describes some of the international initiatives that are making progress in this area.
Biosimilars in the EU: a new guide for health professionals
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: October 2017

With the number of biosimilar drugs being approved in the EU rising rapidly, the European Medicines Agency and the European Commission have jointly published a guide for healthcare professionals to provide reassurance on their safety and efficacy – but does it fall short of the rigorous analysis clinicians require?
The birth control patrol
Authors: Delvin David
Published: October 2017

Dr Delvin recalls a sure‐fire way of making yourself unwelcome as a doctor back in the early 1980s – by taking on home visits as a member of the domiciliary family planning team.
Geometric Isomerism of an Acetamidino Derivative Determined by NMR Investigations
Authors: Linciano Pasquale , Ammazzalorso Alessandra , De Filippis Barbara , Fantacuzzi Marialuigia , Giampietro Letizia , Maccallini Cristina , Amoroso Rosa
Published: October 2017

Amidines, the nitrogen analogues of carboxylic acids, show interesting roles as pharmacophore groups in biologically active agents and in compounds of pharmaceutical interest. In the last years, our research group disclosed inhibitors of inducible and neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS and nNOS, respectively) containing the amidino moiety, with the aim to extend the study of the possible ligand‐enzyme interactions. Here we discuss the synthesis and spectral studies of acetamidino derivative N‐(2‐(pyrrolidin‐1‐yl)ethyl)acetimidamidinium bromide, and how these studies led us to identification of a E/Z configurational change, which could be helpful in elucidating the ligand‐enzyme interactions.
One‐pot Synthesis of Quinoxaline Chalcones from Commercially Available Calcium Carbide Through Palladium‐Catalyzed Coupling Reactions
Authors: Soozani Atena , Keivanloo Ali , Bakherad Mohammad
Published: October 2017

New (E)‐3‐(2‐aminoquinoxalin‐3‐yl)‐1‐arylprop‐2‐en‐1‐ones are prepared through the multi‐component reaction of 3‐substituted‐2‐chloroqunoxalines, calcium carbide, and aromatic aldehydes in the presence of diethylamine, catalyzed by Pd/Cu in acetonitrile. This synthetic strategy presents an acetylene molecule linking the quinoxaline scaffold to an aldehyde moiety for construction of quinoxaline chalcone by two carbon‐carbon bond coupling reactions. This one‐pot process provides an efficient and direct method for the synthesis of new quinoxaline chalcones from the low‐cost calcium carbide with good yields. A number of synthesized compounds were screened for their in vitro anti‐bacterial activity against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria using a well‐diffusion method.
“Design and Synthesis of 3D‐Ordered Mesoporous Co3O4 Nanostructures for Their Improved Supercapacitance and Photocatalytic Activity”
Authors: Sheikh Mehraj U. D. , Pandit Umar J. , Naikoo Gowhar A. , Thomas Molly , Bano Mustri , Ahirwar Devendra , Khan Farid
Published: October 2017

We synthesized Co3O4 and Co3O4@Au‐NPs nano structures via simple and economical strategy for high‐performance supercapacitors. Co3O4@Au‐NPs modified glassy carbon electrode exhibited excellent electrochemical performance including high specific capacitance of 683 Fg−1(current density of 0.5 Ag−1), better retention capability of 65% at high current density (10 Ag−1) with remarkable cycling stability in 1000 continuous cycles at 0.5 Ag−1 current density (only 6% loss after 1000 cycles) and high energy and power densities (94.86 Whkg−1 and 3.48 kWkg−1). The photocatalytic activity of the synthesized mesoporous structures against Methylene Blue dye was also carried out and compared with the standard P25. The study showed that the presence of gold nanoparticles has increased the photocatalytic activity of synthesized porous Co3O4 to many folds. From the results it is believed that the addition of gold nanoparticles (Au‐NPs) has largely increased the supercapacitor and photocatalytic activity of Co3O4.
Large‐Scale Fabrication of Core–Shell Structured C/SnO2 Hollow Spheres as Anode Materials with Improved Lithium Storage Performance
Authors: Cheng Yong , Li Qian , Wang Chunli , Sun Lianshan , Yi Zheng , Wang Limin
Published: October 2017

Due to the high theoretical capacity as high as 1494 mAh g−1, SnO2 is considered as a potential anode material for high‐capacity lithium–ion batteries (LIBs). Therefore, the simple but effective method focused on fabrication of SnO2 is imperative. To meet this, a facile and efficient strategy to fabricate core–shell structured C/SnO2 hollow spheres by a solvothermal method is reported. Herein, the solid and hollow structure as well as the carbon content can be controlled. Very importantly, high‐yield C/SnO2 spheres can be produced by this method, which suggest potential business applications in LIBs field. Owing to the dual buffer effect of the carbon layer and hollow structures, the core–shell structured C/SnO2 hollow spheres deliver a high reversible discharge capacity of 1007 mAh g−1 at a current density of 100 mA g−1 after 300 cycles and a superior discharge capacity of 915 mAh g−1 at 500 mA g−1 after 500 cycles. Even at a high current density of 1 and 2 A g−1, the core–shell structured C/SnO2 hollow spheres electrode still exhibits excellent discharge capacity in the long life cycles. Consideration of the superior performance and high yield, the core–shell structured C/SnO2 hollow spheres are of great interest for the next‐generation LIBs.
Piezo‐Phototronic Matrix via a Nanowire Array
Authors: Zhang Yang , Zhai Junyi , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: October 2017

Piezoelectric semiconductors, such as ZnO and GaN, demonstrate multiproperty coupling effects toward various aspects of mechanical, electrical, and optical excitation. In particular, the three‐way coupling among semiconducting, photoexcitation, and piezoelectric characteristics in wurtzite‐structured semiconductors is established as a new field, which was first coined as piezo‐phototronics by Wang in 2010. The piezo‐phototronic effect can controllably modulate the charge‐carrier generation, separation, transport, and/or recombination in optical‐electronic processes by modifying the band structure at the metal–semiconductor or semiconductor–semiconductor heterojunction/interface. Here, the progress made in using the piezo‐phototronic effect for enhancing photodetectors, pressure sensors, light‐emitting diodes, and solar cells is reviewed. In comparison with previous works on a single piezoelectric semiconducting nanowire, piezo‐phototronic nanodevices built using nanowire arrays provide a promising platform for fabricating integrated optoelectronics with the realization of high‐spatial‐resolution imaging and fast responsivity.
Static analysis of JavaScript libraries in a scalable and precise way using loop sensitivity
Authors: Park Changhee , Lee Hongki , Ryu Sukyoung
Published: October 2017

Statically analyzing JavaScript applications often requires an analysis of JavaScript libraries because many JavaScript applications use libraries. However, static analysis techniques for JavaScript are not yet ready for analyzing libraries in a scalable and precise manner. Simply loading JavaScript libraries uses various dynamic features of JavaScript, which cause static analyzers to suffer from mutually intermingled problems of scalability and imprecision. In this paper, we present a loop‐sensitive analysis (LSA) technique, which can improve the analysis scalability when analyzing JavaScript libraries by enhancing the analysis precision of loops. The LSA technique distinguishes loop iterations when loop conditions can be determined to be either true or false precisely. We formalize LSA in the abstract interpretation framework in the presence of tricky language features such as exceptions and prove its soundness and precision theorems using Coq. We evaluate our LSA implementation with the analysis results of programs that use 5 JavaScript libraries and show that LSA significantly improves the analysis scalability and precision of an existing JavaScript static analyzer when analyzing JavaScript libraries. In addition, using the configurability of LSA, we experimentally show the correlation between scalability and precision in the analysis of JavaScript libraries. We found that even the analysis of simple programs that just load jQuery, which is the most popular JavaScript library, in a scalable way requires distinguishing not only the last 4 functions being called but also 40 iterations in each loop with 2‐level nested loops at least. Both the mechanization and implementation of LSA are publicly available.
A pilot survey of farm animal welfare in Serbia, a country preparing for EU accession
Authors: Phythian Clare J. , Mullan Siobhan , Butterworth Andrew , Lambton Sarah , Ilić Jelena , Burazerović Jelena , Burazerović Elvir , Leach Katharine A.
Published: October 2017

The selection and field application of animal‐based welfare measures for pigs, sheep, dairy cows and broilers was the first step towards the future development of welfare improvement schemes for Serbia – a country that is applying for EU accession. The aim of this pilot study was to: (1) test the feasibility of a protocol for monitoring farm animal welfare in Serbia, (2) ascertain preliminary data on animal‐based outcomes of farm welfare and (3) gain insight into Serbian farmers’ understanding of animal welfare as part of a wider project working towards inclusion of animal‐based assessments in a ‘higher welfare’ voluntary assurance scheme. This study encompasses the first national survey of farm animal welfare in which animal‐based outcomes were tested on 105 farms by a total of ten trained assessors. Data on the views and aspirations of the farmers from these 105 farms were also systematically gathered during face‐to‐face interviews. Existing animal‐based measures for pigs, sheep, dairy cows and broilers that have been successfully applied and identified as valid, reliable and feasible measures in other countries, were found to be largely transferable. However, some on‐farm protocols, previously used in other countries, had to be shortened for logistical reasons when used in Serbia. Our findings suggest that further refinement may be needed in order to allow local application of all measures. While the term ‘animal welfare’ has only recently been introduced into the Serbian language, seventy‐three percent of farmers had heard of it. Overall, few positive associations were found between farmer satisfaction with animals’ living conditions and animal‐based data. Many farmers had aspirations to develop and expand their farms, which may potentially enhance animal welfare, but these farmers identified that financial and technical advice and support would be needed in order to achieve these goals.
Biostratigraphy and Depositional Environment of the Miocene Limestone Bed of Baripada, Mayurbhanj District, Odisha: Foraminiferal, Sedimentological and Bulk Organic Geochemical Evidences
Authors: Bhaaumik Ajoy K. , Paikray Joydeep , Dutta Jagadish , Mitra Arijit , Tiwari Devleena , Patil Dattatray J.
Published: October 2017

Baripada Marine Beds (BMB) have been studied extensively in terms of its mega fossil content. However, not much has been discussed about the foraminiferal content and the organic matter assemblage in these beds. The fossiliferous sequence of BMB consists of sandstone, shale and limestone units. The present study is persued on the limestone unit of BMB. Foraminiferal, thin section and rock-eval pyrolysis studies were performed on the 33 surface samples collected from five sections of Jamdapal and Mukurmatia region along the Budhabalang river bank. Foraminifera are less abundant in the samples of Jamdapal, whereas Mukurmatia is comparatively rich. First appearance datum of Globorotalia menardii[ranges since middle Miocene (12.6 Ma); FAD at planktic foraminiferal zone N12] and last appearance datum of Neogloboquadrina continuosa [ranges between early Miocene (23.2 Ma) to late Miocene (8.3 Ma); FAD at planktic foraminiferal zone N4B and LAD at N16] together suggest that the limestone unit was deposited in between 12.6 to 8.3 Ma within the upper Miocene. Also, the association of shallow water benthic foraminifera (Species of Ammonia, Asterorotalia, Bolivina, Buliminella, Cibicides, Challengerella, Criboelphidium, Cribononion, Elphidium, Hanzawaia, Nonionella) and planktic foraminifera (Globigerina falcoensis, Globigerina woodi, Globorotalia menardii, Neogloboquadrina continuosa) together with oyster bank and shark teeth suggest deposition of limestone within well oxygenated, tropical, shallow water, open marine condition (within 40m water depth). Lithological and thin section studies together with global sea level fluctuation history advocate that upper Miocene marine transgression promoted the formation of this unit. Bulk organic geochemical data obtained by the rock-eval pyrolysis studies on selected samples indicate a low total organic carbon (TOC), with low hydrogen index (HI), high oxygen index (OI). The organic facies is characterised by type-IV kerogen with major contribution from near shore terrestrial plants. This also suggests deposition in shallow, oxygenated environments that did not promote significant accumulation and preservation of organic content in sediments.
Pain catastrophizing, perceived injustice, and pain intensity impair life satisfaction through differential patterns of physical and psychological disruption
Authors: Sturgeon John A. , Ziadni Maisa S. , Trost Zina , Darnall Beth D. , Mackey Sean C.
Published: October 2017

Background and purpose

Previous research has highlighted the importance of cognitive appraisal processes in determining the nature and effectiveness of coping with chronic pain. Two of the key variables implicated in appraisal of pain are catastrophizing and perceived injustice, which exacerbate the severity of pain-related distress and increase the risk of long-term disability through maladaptive behavioural responses. However, to date, the influences of these phenomena have not been examined concurrently, nor have they been related specifically to quality of life measures, such as life satisfaction.

Methods

Using data froman online survey of330 individuals with chronic pain, structural path modelling techniques were used to examine the independent effects of pain catastrophizing, perceived injustice, and average pain intensity on life satisfaction. Two potential mediators of these relationships were examined: depressive symptoms and pain-related interference.

Results

Results indicated that depressive symptoms fully mediated the relationship between pain catastrophizing and life satisfaction, and pain interference fully mediated the relationship between pain intensity and life satisfaction. Both depressive symptoms and pain interference were found to significantly mediate the relationship between perceived injustice and life satisfaction, but perceived injustice continued to demonstrate a significant and negative relationship with life satisfaction, above and beyond the other study variables.

Conclusions

The current findings highlight the distinct affective and behavioural mediators of pain and maladaptive cognitive appraisal processes in chronic pain, and highlight their importance in both perceptions of pain-related interference and longer-term quality of life.
Are there any collective nouns among lexical plurals in English?
Authors: Gardelle Laure
Published: October 2017

The grammatical tradition has excluded lexical plurals from the category of collective nouns on the sole basis of their morphology (no discrepancy between singular form and so-called plural reference); but this criterion has led to hesitations, some linguists including, for instance,cattleorpeople. This study therefore considers other, semantic, criteria to establish more convincingly whether lexical plurals that denote pluralities of entities may be collective nouns. Relying on distinctions between meronymy and (non-taxonomic) hyperonymy, collectiveness and cohesion, and(a) crew(collective sense) /(several) crew(uninflected plural), it concludes that they are definitely not collective nouns, but aggregate nouns (or senses of nouns). Two sets are established. Some, mainly denoting humans, typically originate in the collective sense of the noun through a coercion mechanism; the others, mainly denoting objects, result from an operation of abstraction. For some of these, the notion of “hyperonyms of plural classes” is put forward.