bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hong Kong students entering Mainland China universities: a review of the admission scheme
Authors: Te Alice Y.C. , Postiglione Gerard A.
Published: July 2018

Purpose

Studying abroad is not new for Hong Kong students, especially those from the middle class. For a variety of reasons, traversing to Mainland universities has been an unconventional path confined mostly to students who pursued specific programs, or had family or social ties. Beginning in 2012, an admission scheme was launched for Hong Kong students applying to Mainland universities. The purpose of this paper is to review the admission scheme.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper draws on both quantitative and qualitative data sources. It includes statistics from official records of students’ application and enrollment figures, and documents obtained from multiple sources, as well as qualitative data through interviews of Hong Kong students who are studying in the Mainland universities.

Findings

The key findings are that since the implementation of the admission scheme, the number of applicants is rather stable irrespective of the changing socio-economic and political context. With the preferential treatment for Hong Kong students, low tuition fees, government financial assistance and scholarships, most students still consider studying in the Mainland a backup plan rather than a first choice. The academic performance of the students and academic/career aspirations have influenced their choice and decisions.

Originality/value

This paper contributes through providing both primary and secondary data to help understand the level of acceptance on the scheme since its implementation. It also reveals the perceptions of the students who have made their choice to study cross the border. In facing the emergent economic, socio-cultural and political challenges, some policies recommendations are proposed to boost the acceptance of the scheme. Moreover, it fills the research gap on student mobility from Hong Kong to Mainland China in the corpus of literature.
Seafloor seismic acquisition using autonomous underwater vehicles
Authors: Tsingas Constantinos , Brizard Thierry , Muhaidib Abdulaziz Al
Published: July 2018

Although narrow‐azimuth towed‐streamer data provide good image quality for structural interpretation, it is generally accepted that for wide‐azimuth marine surveys seabed receivers deliver superior seismic reflection measurements and seismically derived reservoir attributes. However, seabed surveys are not widely used due to the higher acquisition costs when compared to streamer acquisition. In recent years, there have been significant engineering efforts to automate receiver deployment and retrieval in order to minimize the cost differential and conduct cost‐efficient seabed receiver seismic surveys. These engineering efforts include industrially engineered nodes, nodes on a rope deployment schemes and even robotic nodes, which swim to and from the deployment location. This move to automation is inevitable, leading to robotization of seismic data acquisition for exploration and development activities in the oil and gas industry. We are developing a robotic‐based technology, which utilizes autonomous underwater vehicles as seismic sensors without the need of using a remotely operated vehicle for deployment and retrieval. In this paper, we describe the autonomous underwater vehicle evolution throughout the project years from initial heavy and bulky nodes to fully autonomous light and flexible underwater receivers. Results obtained from two field pilot tests using different generations of autonomous underwater vehicles indicate that the seismic coupling, and navigation based on underwater acoustics are very reliable and robust.
Modulation of the orthostatic blood pressure response by acute nitrate consumption is dependent upon ethnic origin
Authors: Allen Katie , Chuter Katie M. , Fithon Katherine , Marshall Lisa , Hauton David
Published: July 2018

Orthostatic stress triggers a response to maintain cerebral perfusion and prevent syncope. Given the hypotensive effects of inorganic nitrate this response to orthostasis may be altered by acute supplementation with inorganic nitrate and modified by ethnic origin. Caucasian and SE Asian (n = 30 for both), were recruited and subjected to an ‘active stand test’ and brachial artery blood pressure (BP), digit blood flow and ECG were recorded. Following inorganic nitrate supplementation, (10 mg/kg body mass) the tests were repeated. For both Caucasian and SE Asians transition to standing increased diastolic pressure (DP) and heart rate (HR) (P < 0.001 for both) and by calculation increased rate‐pressure product (P < 0.001) and decreased pulse pressure (P < 0.01 for both) indicative of decreased ventricular filling. Nitrate supplementation decreased both DP (P < 0.001) and HR (P < 0.001). Assessment of HR variability suggested sympathetic nerve activity, was higher throughout in Caucasians (P < 0.05) coupled with higher parasympathetic tone (P < 0.01). Nitrate had no effect on cardiac autonomic nerve activity, as estimated using HR variability, for supine or standing subjects. The tachycardia and hypertension associated with orthostatic stress were preserved in both Caucasian and SE Asian subjects, however, we highlight possible differences in autonomic nervous system activity between Caucasians and SE Asians. SE Asians are resistant to the hypotensive effects of inorganic nitrate supplementation suggesting the absence of a crucial mechanism for activation of the nitrate‐nitrite‐nitric oxide system.
ETA as a novel Kv2.1 inhibitor ameliorates β‐cell dysfunction and hyperglycaemia
Authors: Zhou Tingting , Du Mengfan , Zhao Tong , Quan Lingling , Zhu Zhiyuan , Chen Jing
Published: July 2018

The Kv2.1 channel plays an important role in the regulation against pancreatic β‐cell dysfunctions. Therefore, it is regarded as a promising target for drug discovery against type 2 diabetes. In the present study, we found that the small molecule 4‐ethoxy‐N‐{[6‐(2‐thienyl)‐7H‐[1,2,4]triazolo[3,4‐b][1,3,4]thiadiazin‐3‐yl]methyl}aniline (ETA), a novel Kv2.1 inhibitor, may be capable of promoting glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion and protecting from apoptosis in pancreatic INS‐832/13 cells. The assay of ETA on type 2 diabetic mice induced by high‐fat diet (HFD)/streptozocin (STZ) confirmed its potency in ameliorating glucose homeostasis. ETA administration reduced fasting blood glucose and glycated haemoglobin levels, improved oral glucose tolerance, and increased serum insulin levels in HFD/STZ mice. Mechanism study demonstrated that ETA protected INS‐832/13 cells involving the regulation against protein kinase B and extracellular‐regulated protein kinase 1/2 signalling pathways. Our study has confirmed the underlying regulation of Kv2.1 against β‐cell function and also addressed the potential of ETA as a lead compound in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Resistant ammonia‐oxidizing archaea endure, but adapting ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria thrive in boreal lake sediments receiving nutrient‐rich effluents
Authors: Aalto Sanni L. , Saarenheimo Jatta , Mikkonen Anu , Rissanen Antti J. , Tiirola Marja
Published: July 2018

Climate change along with anthropogenic activities changes biogeochemical conditions in lake ecosystems, modifying the sediment microbial communities. Wastewater effluents introduce nutrients and organic material but also novel microbes to lake ecosystems, simulating forthcoming increases in catchment loadings. In this work, we first used 16s rRNA gene sequencing to study how the overall sediment microbial community responds to wastewater in six boreal lakes. To examine forthcoming changes in the lake biogeochemistry, we focused on the ammonia‐oxidizing archaea (AOA) and bacteria (AOB), and examined their functional and compositional community response to wastewater. Although we found the least diverse and least resistant prokaryotic communities from the most wastewater‐influenced sediments, the community changed fast toward the natural composition with the diminishing influence of wastewater. Each lake hosted a unique resistant AOA community, while AOB communities were adapting, responding to environmental conditions as well as receiving new members from WWTPs. In general, AOB dominated in numbers in wastewater‐influenced sediments, while the ratio between AOA and AOB increased when moving toward pristine conditions. Our results suggest that although future climate‐change‐driven increases in nutrient loading and microbial migration might significantly disrupt lake sediment microbiomes, they can promote nitrification through adapting and abundant AOB communities.
Environmental determinants of pyoverdine production, exploitation and competition in natural Pseudomonas communities
Authors: Butaitė Elena , Kramer Jos , Wyder Stefan , Kümmerli Rolf
Published: July 2018

Many bacteria rely on the secretion of siderophores to scavenge iron from the environment. Laboratory studies revealed that abiotic and biotic factors together determine how much siderophores bacteria make, and whether siderophores can be exploited by non‐producing cheaters or be deployed by producers to inhibit competitors. Here, we explore whether these insights apply to natural communities, by comparing the production of the siderophore pyoverdine among 930 Pseudomonas strains from 48 soil and pond communities. We found that pH, iron content, carbon concentration and community diversity determine pyoverdine production levels, and the extent to which strains are either stimulated or inhibited by heterologous (non‐self) pyoverdines. While pyoverdine non‐producers occurred in both habitats, their prevalence was higher in soils. Environmental and genetic analyses suggest that non‐producers can evolve as cheaters, exploiting heterologous pyoverdine, but also due to pyoverdine disuse in environments with increased iron availability. Overall, we found that environmental factors explained between‐strain variation in pyoverdine production much better in soils than in ponds, presumably because high strain mixing in ponds impedes local adaption. Our study sheds light on the complexity of natural bacterial communities, and provides first insights into the multivariate nature of siderophore‐based iron acquisition and competition among environmental pseudomonads.
AVOIDING THE RUNAROUND: THE LINK BETWEEN CULTURAL HEALTH CAPITAL AND HEALTH MANAGEMENT AMONG OLDER PRISONERS*
Authors: NOVISKY MEGHAN A.
Published: July 2018

The link between incarceration and health is of emerging empirical interest to criminological scholars. Yet, we still know little about the needs of the rising population of older prisoners and the health issues they face. By drawing on qualitative data gathered from 193 interviews with older men incarcerated across three U.S. prisons, I examine the specific health promotion strategies available to, and used by, these men through a cultural health capital framework. Findings show that older prisoners make deliberate choices to protect their health from the constraints and deprivations inherent in their carceral lives. In the hopes of better managing chronic and acute disease, the strategies prisoners reference include acquiring medical information, making food and diet modifications, and health advocacy. Notably, the mobilization of cultural health capital is situated within a context of privilege, leaving important implications for both incarcerated individuals and correctional administrators.
Seasonal Prevalence of Mosquitoes Collected from Light Traps in Gyeongsangnam Province, Republic of Korea (2013–2014)
Authors: Kim Dong‐Min , Noh Byung‐Eon , Heo Jeonghoon , Lee Wook‐Gyo , Yang Sung‐Chan , Lee Dong‐Kyu
Published: July 2018

Adult mosquito surveillance was conducted from 2013 through 2014 at four cattle sheds, a wild bird refuge, and two residential areas located in Gyeongnam Province in the Republic of Korea. Adult mosquitoes were collected in black light traps from April 1, through November 30. Mosquito surveillance was conducted to figure out population densities of vector mosquitoes, possibly invaded mosquitoes and identify various virus infections at the selected sites. A total of 107,466 females comprising 14 species and 7 genera were collected from 2013 to 2014. The most common species collected were Culex tritaeniorhynchus Giles (63.8%), Anopheles sinensis s.l. (18.9%), Aedes vexans nipponii (Theobald) (7.7%), and Culex pipiens Coquillett (5.1%). Trap indices (TIs) varied widely for species over their range, due to geographical distribution and degree of association with rural and urban communities. The most collected An. sinensis s.l. and Cx. tritaeniorhynchus appeared at a cow shed in Hapcheon (TI 347.5) and a pigsty in Daejeo‐1‐dong, Busan (TI 1,040.8), respectively, due in part to their situation near breeding sites such as rice paddies. The bi‐weekly population densities for mosquito species were variable for each of the years, apparently as a result of variable annual weather conditions. None of the mosquito species collected tested for the flavivirus including Japanese Encephalitis Virus, West Nile Virus, Dengue Virus, and Zika Virus infections by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay were positive.
Australian students’ perspective on interventional radiology education: A prospective cross‐institutional study
Authors: Foo Michelle , Maingard Julian , Phan Kevin , Lim Reuben , Chandra Ronil V , Lee Michael J , Asadi Hamed , Kok Hong Kuan , Brooks Mark
Published: July 2018

Introduction

As interventional radiology (IR) adopts an increasingly pivotal role within therapeutic medicine, it is essential that medical students gain exposure to IR so as future doctors, they can fulfil the growing demand for interventional radiologists (IRs) and make appropriate referrals to IRs. Nonetheless, several international studies have reported no or little representation of IR in medical schools. Our study aims to assess the current awareness, exposure, knowledge and attitudes about IR among Australian medical students, so as to provide preliminary data on whether IR teaching in Australian medical schools needs improvement.

Methods

A prospective cross‐sectional study was conducted via web‐based and in‐person distribution of a voluntary, anonymous questionnaire.

Results

A total of 237 complete responses were received from approximately 1400 clinical‐based students (17% response rate); 38% of respondents had never witnessed an IR procedure, 39% witnessed 1–2 and the remainder, 3–5. Few students reported adequate teaching or knowledge in IR (7% and 5% respectively). Of the 32% of the students considering a career in IR, males predominated (25% of females vs. 59% of males, OR = 0.48, 95%, CI = 0.27–0.83, P = 0.008). Most students agree that IR should be in the university curriculum (59%) and is key to improving healthcare (74%). Senior students were more likely to report adequate teaching (P < 0.001) and believe that IR teaching is important (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Australian medical students have a strong appreciation for IR despite having suboptimal teaching, exposure and knowledge in IR. In order to complement and sustain the rapid uptake of IR techniques in modern medicine, university curricula require a greater focus on IR.
Nurse plants have the potential to accelerate vegetation recovery in Lapalala Wilderness old fields, South Africa
Authors: Ruwanza Sheunesu
Published: July 2018

Nurse plants offer microclimates that are favourable to plant growth of understory native vegetation, thus facilitating ecological restoration in degraded old fields. This study examined the impact of three nurse plants on vegetation diversity and soil physical properties in old fields located at Lapalala Wilderness, South Africa. Vegetation surveys in plots measuring 5 m x 5 m under and outside the canopy of nurse plants in both old field and natural sites were conducted. Top soils under and outside the nurse plants canopy were collected in all plots and quantified for soil moisture, soil penetration resistance and soil water repellency. Results indicate that species diversity was high under plant canopy compared to outside plant canopy for all nurse plants. Soils under nurse plants canopy showed improved soil moisture and soil penetration resistance compared to soils outside plant canopy, but no differences were reported for soil water repellency. The study concludes that the presence of native plants under nurse plants canopy points to a positive vegetation recovery trajectory. For vegetation and soil restoration to be effective in Lapalala Wilderness old fields, nurse plants should be protected and active restoration, e.g. seeding or seedling sowing under nurse plants canopy should be considered.
Persistent regulatory T‐cell response 2 years after 3 years of grass tablet SLIT: Links to reduced eosinophil counts, sIgE levels, and clinical benefit
Authors: Varona Rosa , Ramos Tania , Escribese Maria Marta , Jimeno Lucia , Galán Agustin , Würtzen Peter A. , Vega Francisco , Marín Alicia , Martín Santiago , Carrera Ana C. , Blanco Carlos , Barber Domingo
Published: July 2018

Background

In the first 2 years of grass tablet sublingual immunotherapy treatment, we have previously demonstrated a progressive development of a regulatory T‐cell response, which was preceded by an early decrease in the frequency of both IL‐4+ cells and sIgE levels. A progressive increase in sIgG4 levels and FAB blockage were also found.

Methods

By monitoring immunological kinetics during 3 years of active treatment + 2 years of follow‐up, we aimed to identify key immunological parameters that could explain sustained clinical benefit of grass tablet sublingual immunotherapy.

Results

Thirty patients completed the 5‐year clinical trial protocol. Although individual responses were heterogeneous, reduction in both sIgE and circulating IL‐4+ cells compared to the initial 1‐ to 4‐month peak was maintained throughout the 3‐year treatment period and for 2 years after discontinuation. Meanwhile, after a 2‐year increase in sIgG4, the levels were stabilized during the third year and decreased post‐therapy. FAB inhibition remained significantly inhibited throughout the study compared to preimmunotherapy in 83% of patients. A sustained regulatory T‐cell response, after IT cessation, occurs in two‐thirds of the patients. There was a statistical association between this regulatory response, the maintenance of lower eosinophil counts during grass pollen seasons, and sIgE titers lower than before immunotherapy treatment, and the latter were significantly associated with clinical response.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the immunological mechanisms underlying the sustained response after 2 years of cessation of immunotherapy (3‐year treatment period) are linked to the acquisition and maintenance of a regulatory T‐cell response.
Sensor Fusion for Myoelectric Control Based on Deep Learning With Recurrent Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Wang Weiming , Chen Biao , Xia Peng , Hu Jie , Peng Yinghong
Published: July 2018

Electromyogram (EMG) signal decoding is the essential part of myoelectric control. However, traditional machine learning methods lack the capability of learning and expressing the information contained in EMG signals, and the robustness of the myoelectric control system is not sufficient for real life applications. In this article, a novel model based on recurrent convolutional neural networks (RCNNs) is proposed for hand movement classification and tested on the noninvasive EMG dataset. The proposed model uses deep architecture, which has advantages of dealing with complex time‐series data, such as EMG signals. Transfer learning is used in the training of multimodal model. The classification performance is compared with support vector machine (SVM) and convolutional neural networks (CNNs) on the same dataset. To improve the adaptability to the effect of arm movements, we fused the EMG signals and acceleration data that are the multimodal input of the model. The parameter transferring of deep neural networks is used to accelerate the training process and avoid over‐fitting. The experimental results show that time domain input and 1‐dimensional convolution have higher accuracy in the RCNN model. Compared with SVM and CNNs, the proposed model has higher classification accuracy. Sensor fusion can improve the model performance in the condition of arm movements. The RCNN model is a promising decoder of EMG and the sensor fusion can increase the accuracy and robustness of the myoelectric control system.
Association between vitamin D, antimicrobial peptides and urinary tract infection in infants and young children
Authors: Georgieva V , Kamolvit W , Herthelius M , Lüthje P , Brauner A , Chromek M
Published: July 2018

Aim

Vitamin D stimulates production of the endogenous antimicrobial peptides cathelicidin and β‐defensin‐2, which are expressed in the urinary tract. We investigated vitamin D status and levels of cathelicidin and β‐defensin‐2 and their association with urinary tract infection (UTI).

Methods

The study included 120 children under three years of age: 76 children with UTIs and 44 otherwise healthy children with congenital hydronephrosis. Serum 25‐hydroxycholecalciferol levels were measured by direct competitive electro‐chemiluminescence immunoassay, and plasma cathelicidin and β‐defensin‐2 concentrations were analysed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

We found that vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency are prevalent in young children (21%). Serum vitamin D levels negatively correlated with age and were significantly lower in girls. Levels of vitamin D positively correlated with levels of cathelicidin but not with β‐defensin‐2. Low concentrations of vitamin D were associated with UTIs in girls, but we did not see any correlation with the recurrence of infection at one‐year follow‐up.

Conclusion

Vitamin D deficiency is common and may prove to be a risk factor for UTIs especially in girls. We hypothesise that adequate supplementation with vitamin D may become a way to prevent first‐time UTIs.
Model‐based assessment of the benefits and risks of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator treatment in acute ischaemic stroke
Authors: Guk Jinju , Chae Dongwoo , Son Hankil , Yoo Joonsang , Heo Ji Hoe , Park Kyungsoo
Published: July 2018

Aims

Recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt‐PA) is the only first‐line agent approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to treat acute ischaemic stroke. However, it often causes the serious adverse event (AE) of haemorrhagic transformation. The present study developed a pharmacometric model for the rt‐PA treatment effect and AE and, using the developed model, proposed a benefit‐to‐risk ratio assessment scheme as a supportive tool to optimize treatment outcome.

Methods

The data from 336 acute ischaemic stroke patients were used. The treatment effect was assessed based on an improvement in National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores, which were described using an item response theory (IRT)‐based disease progression model. Treatment failure and AE probabilities, and their occurrence times, were described by incidence and time‐to‐event models. Using the developed model, benefit‐to‐risk ratios were simulated under various scenarios using the global benefit‐to‐risk trade‐off ratio (GBR).

Results

High initial NIHSS score and middle cerebral artery (MCA) stroke were risk factors for treatment failure, where the failure rate with MCA stroke was 2.87‐fold higher than with non‐MCA stroke. The haemorrhagic transformation time was associated with longitudinal changes in NIHSS scores. The benefit‐to‐risk ratio simulated was highest in minor stroke severity, with GBR >1 in all scenarios, and the ratio with non‐MCA stroke was 2–3 fold higher than with MCA stroke.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated the feasibility of applying an IRT model to describing the time course of the rt‐PA treatment effect and AE. Benefit‐to‐risk ratio analyses showed that the treatment was optimal in non‐MCA stroke with minor stroke severity.
Patient‐ and health care‐related factors associated with initiation of potentially inappropriate medication in community‐dwelling older persons
Authors: Hyttinen Virva , Jyrkkä Johanna , Saastamoinen Leena K. , Vartiainen Anna‐Kaisa , Valtonen Hannu
Published: July 2018

Potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) in older persons are defined as medications of which the potential harms outweigh their benefits. The purpose of this study was to determine how initiation of PIMs accumulate in community‐dwelling persons aged 65‐74 and ≥75 years, and which patient‐ and health care‐related factors are associated with PIM initiation over time. Data of this study were gathered from population‐based registers by a 10% random sample of persons (n = 28 497) aged ≥65 years with no prior PIMs within a 2‐year period preceding the index date (1 January 2002), and the study individuals were followed until 2013. The Finnish Prescription Register was linked using a personal identity code to register on inpatient care and causes of deaths and socio‐economic data. In this study, 10 698 (37.5%) persons initiated PIMs during the study period. Female gender was associated with PIM initiation in 65‐74‐year‐olds, but not in ≥75‐year‐olds. In 65‐74‐year‐olds, the risk of PIM initiation increased with the higher income, whereas in ≥75‐year‐olds, the association between PIM initiation and the high income was not significant. The prescribing physician explained 9%‐16% of the variation in the probability of PIM initiation. In conclusion, there were age‐related differences in the factors associated with PIM initiation in relation to gender and socio‐economic status. Overall, patient‐related factors explained a large proportion of variation of PIM initiation, but there were also differences in PIM prescribing among physicians. However, physician‐related variance of PIM initiations decreased during the 12‐year follow‐up.
Clinical experiences and case review of angiotensin II receptor blocker‐related angioedema in Korea
Authors: Kim Hyunah , Baik Seo Yeon , Yang So Jung , Kim Tong Min , Lee Seung‐Hwan , Cho Jae Hyoung , Choi In Young , Kim Ju Han , Yoon Kun‐Ho , Kim Hun‐Sung
Published: July 2018

Although angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor‐related angioedema is well known, angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB)‐related angioedema has not been extensively studied because of its lower incidence. Therefore, ARB‐related angioedema is likely to be overlooked in the clinical setting. We analysed the medical records of adults who had been prescribed ARB and diagnosed with angioedema between 2009 and 2015. All adults over the age of 18 years who were initially administered ARB between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2015 were selected as participants in this study. To confirm whether the angioedema was actually due to the administration of ARB, we conducted a chart review. A total of 35 584 patients were prescribed ARB for the first time when visiting the Seoul St. Mary's Hospital during the study period. Twenty‐four patients diagnosed with angioedema for other reasons prior to their first prescription of ARB were excluded from this study. ARB‐related angioedema was suspected in six of 35 560 patients (0.02%) who were initially prescribed ARB during the study period. The manifestation of ARB‐related angioedema ranged from several days (1/6 case) to several years (3/6 cases). Some patients continued taking ARB with intermittent antihistamine or steroid therapy. In such cases, angioedema symptoms improved but did not completely resolve. Its diagnosis can be delayed and the symptoms may be recurrent as symptoms improve with antihistamine use. In some cases, the same person had different reactions depending on the type of ARB. Definitively diagnosing ARB‐related angioedema is difficult, and physicians often overlook angioedema without suspecting that it is an adverse effect of ARB. Close attention of physicians and improved patient education can reduce the incidence of ARB‐related angioedema.
An efficient and facile green synthesis of bisindole methanes as potential Mtb FtsZ inhibitors
Authors: Khadkikar Pratima , Goud N. Sridhar , Mohammed Arifuddin , Ramamoorthy Gayathri , Ananthathatmula Ragamanvitha , Doble Mukesh , Rizvi Arshad , Banerjee Sharmista , Ravi Alvala , Alvala Mallika
Published: July 2018

The rising multidrug‐resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) strain made current anti‐TB drug therapy ineffective and became a major health concern globally; hence it is crucial to develop new molecules against vital targets with a novel mechanism. Mtb Filamenting temperature sensitive protein Z (FtsZ), a tubulin homolog plays a major role in bacterial cell division, in the presence of GTP recruiting essential proteins for cell division and considered to be a potential target for drug discovery. Most of MtbFtsZ inhibitors known are of antibiotics from natural resources and suffer from cellular uptake, specificity. In the present study, we demonstrated for the first time bisindole derivatives as potential MtbFtsZ inhibitors. The synthesis of bisindole derivatives has been carried out using green synthetic approach by applying ammonium molybdate as a catalyst under Ultrasonic condition. Among the synthesized bisindole derivative, I16 and I5 showed 62.29% and 56.86% inhibition of GTPase activity of MtbFtsZ and increased the length of Mycobacterium smegmatis and Bacillus subtilis by two folds. Further compound I16 inhibited Mtb growth with a MIC of 37.5 μg/ml. To explain these interactions, detailed Molecular docking studies have been carried out and found to be supportive to the biological activity.
Marginal bone level and survival of short and standard‐length implants after 3 years: An Open Multi‐Center Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Zadeh Homayoun H. , Guljé Felix , Palmer Paul J. , Abrahamsson Ingemar , Chen Stephen , Mahallati Ramin , Stanford Clark M.
Published: July 2018

Objectives

The present multi‐center randomized controlled clinical trial sought to compare the marginal bone level (MBL) changes and survival of 6‐ and 11‐mm implants.

Material and Methods

Ninety‐five patients receiving a total of 209 dental implants were enrolled. Subjects were randomly allocated to two cohorts: test (4.0 × 6 mm; N = 108) or control (4.0 × 11 mm; N = 101) implant groups. To be randomized, all edentulous sites were anatomically qualified to receive 11 mm implant. Two to three implants were placed in maxillary or mandibular posterior regions and loaded with splinted provisional restoration after 6 weeks and definitive restoration 6 months thereafter. Test and control implants were followed by clinical and radiographic examinations on an annual basis up to 3 years.

Results

Radiographic assessment of MBL 3 years after loading revealed the bone to be located at 0.27 mm (±0.40) and 0.44 mm (±0.74) apical to the implant platform in the test and control groups, respectively. During the 3 years of follow‐up since loading, 0.04 mm (±0.43) MBL gain and 0.02 mm (±0.76) of MBL loss were observed in the 6‐mm (test) and 11‐mm (control) groups, respectively. The MBL's for test and control were significantly different (p = 0.000) in favor of short implants. The cumulative survival rates from placement after 3 years were 96% and 99% for the 6‐ and 11‐mm implants, respectively, with no statistical significance.

Conclusions

Reconstruction of partially edentulous posterior maxilla or mandible with 6‐ or 11‐mm implants led to stable marginal bone level and high implant survival rate after 3 years.
Combined use of eDNA metabarcoding and video surveillance for the assessment of fish biodiversity
Authors: Stat Michael , John Jeffrey , DiBattista Joseph D. , Newman Stephen J. , Bunce Michael , Harvey Euan S.
Published: July 2018

Monitoring communities of fish is important for the management and sustainability of fisheries and marine ecosystems. Baited remote underwater video systems (BRUVs) are among the most effective nondestructive techniques for sampling bony fishes and elasmobranchs (sharks, rays, and skates). However, BRUVs sample visually conspicuous biota; hence, some taxa are undersampled or not recorded at all. We compared the diversity of fishes characterized using BRUVs with diversity detected via environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding. We sampled seawater and captured BRUVs imagery at 48 locales that included reef and seagrass beds inside and outside a marine reserve (Jurien Bay in Western Australia). Eighty‐two fish genera from 13 orders were detected, and the community of fishes described using eDNA and BRUVs combined yielded >30% more generic richness than when either method was used alone. Rather than detecting a homogenous genetic signature, the eDNA assemblages mirrored the BRUVs’ spatial explicitness; differentiation of taxa between seagrass and reef was clear despite the relatively small geographical scale of the study site (∼35 km2). Taxa that were not sampled by one approach, due to limitations and biases intrinsic to the method, were often detected with the other. Therefore, using BRUVs and eDNA in concert provides a more holistic view of vertebrate marine communities across habitats. Both methods are noninvasive, which enhances their potential for widespread implementation in the surveillance of marine ecosystems.
Meta‐analysis of the effects of upstream land cover on stream recovery
Authors: Stanford Bronwen , Jones Holly , Zavaleta Erika
Published: July 2018

Unpredictable or variable ecosystem recovery from disturbance presents a challenge to conservation, particularly as the scale of human disturbance continues to increase. Theory suggests land‐cover and disturbance characteristics affect recovery, but individual studies of disturbance and recovery frequently struggle to uncover generalizable patterns because of high levels of site‐specific variation. To understand how land‐cover, disturbance type, and disturbance duration influence ecosystem recovery, we used studies documenting recovery of 50 streams to perform a global meta‐analysis of stream recovery from disturbances that affect water quality (e.g., oil spill, fire, wastewater). We extracted upstream natural and urban land‐cover percentages for each site and performed model selection and averaging to identify influences on recovery completeness. Most streams improved following the end of a disturbance (median 240% of disturbed condition) but did not recover fully to baseline predisturbance condition within the studied period (median study period 2 years; median recovery 60% of baseline). Scale of disturbance in time and space did not predict recovery, but sites with higher percentages of upstream natural land cover had less complete recovery relative to sites with more urban or agricultural cover, possibly due to higher baseline conditions in these streams. Our findings suggest impacts to systems with low anthropogenic stress may be more irreversible than impacts to already modified systems. We call for more long‐term evaluations of ecosystem response to disturbance and the inclusion of regional references and predisturbance reference conditions for comparison. A more thorough understanding of the role of the surrounding landscape in shaping stream response to disturbance can help managers calibrate expectations for recovery and prioritize protection.
Surgical management of haemorrhoids: an Italian survey of over 32 000 patients over 17 years
Authors: Altomare D. F. , Picciariello A. , Pecorella G. , Milito G. , Naldini G. , Amato A. , Ratto C. , Perinotti R. ,   The Italian Haemorrhoid Survey Group
Published: July 2018

Aim

The management of haemorrhoids has changed significantly in the last two decades as a result of new insights into their pathophysiology and the availability of new surgical devices. The aim of this survey was to evaluate changes in the management of haemorrhoids in Italy over the last 17 years.

Method

An electronic database which recorded details of management relating to the severity of haemorrhoids between 2000 and 2016 was obtained from 18 of 34 colorectal surgeons who were invited to participate.

Results

A total of 32 458 patients were treated for haemorrhoids by 18 expert coloproctologists during a 17‐year period. Patients were classified as Grade II (7542, 23.2%), Grade III(15 360, 47.3%) and Grade IV (9556, 29.4%). Grade II haemorrhoids were treated with rubber band ligation in over 90% of the cases, and patients with Grade IV had a Milligan–Morgan (MM) haemorrhoidectomy in over 90% of the cases. In Grade III, the use of stapled haemorrhoidopexy progressively decreased from 30% to 35% (between 2000 and 2007) to 5% of the cases. Meanwhile, commencing from 2006 the use of Doppler‐guided haemorrhoid artery ligation (DGHAL) with mucopexy increased progressively from 6% to 24%. Over the years, the percentage of MM haemorrhoidectomy remained consistent at between 65% and 70% of the cases.

Conclusion

Relevant changes in the surgical choice of haemorrhoid treatment have occurred in Italy over the last 17 years. MM haemorrhoidectomy remains the most frequently performed procedure for Grade III haemorrhoids. Stapled haemorrhoidopexy has become much less popular in contrast to DGHAL with mucopexy which is being performed much more frequently.
Triglyceride‐rich very low‐density lipoproteins (VLDL) are independently associated with insulin secretion in a multiethnic cohort of adolescents
Authors: Tricò Domenico , Natali Andrea , Mari Andrea , Ferrannini Ele , Santoro Nicola , Caprio Sonia
Published: July 2018

Excess insulin secretion and hyperinsulinaemia contribute to the progression of type 2 diabetes. However, the mechanisms leading to insulin hypersecretion remain largely unknown. Based on our preliminary data, we examined whether triglycerides and very low‐density lipoprotein (VLDL) are independently associated with insulin secretion, and whether ethnicity/race modulates these associations. Fasting triglycerides and VLDL were measured in a multiethnic cohort of 630 non‐diabetic adolescents. Insulin secretion, β‐cell function parameters, insulin sensitivity and insulin clearance were estimated through a 3‐h oral glucose tolerance test. Metabolic assessments were repeated after 2 years in 239 subjects. Triglycerides and triglyceride‐rich VLDL (large and medium size fractions) were associated with both basal and glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion, after adjustment for age, sex, ethnicity, BMI z‐score, plasma glucose, and insulin sensitivity. Ethnicity per se had an impact on lipid profile and β‐cell function, but did not modulate the effect of triglycerides/VLDL on insulin secretion. At follow‐up, changes in triglyceride levels were proportional to changes in insulin secretion. These findings support the hypothesis that hypertriglyceridaemia is an important stimulus for β‐cell insulin release in young people under both fasting and fed conditions.
Glycaemic control and hypoglycaemia benefits with insulin glargine 300 U/mL extend to people with type 2 diabetes and mild‐to‐moderate renal impairment
Authors: Javier Escalada F. , Halimi Serge , Senior Peter A. , Bonnemaire Mireille , Cali Anna M. G. , Melas‐Melt Lydie , Karalliedde Janaka , Ritzel Robert A.
Published: July 2018

Aim

To investigate the impact of renal function on the safety and efficacy of insulin glargine 300 U/mL (Gla‐300) and insulin glargine 100 U/mL (Gla‐100).

Materials and Methods

A meta‐analysis was performed using pooled 6‐month data from the EDITION 1, 2 and 3 trials (N = 2496). Eligible participants, aged ≥18 years with a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes (T2DM), were randomized to receive once‐daily evening injections of Gla‐300 or Gla‐100. Pooled results were assessed by two renal function subgroups: estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 and ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2.

Results

The decrease in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) after 6 months and the proportion of individuals with T2DM achieving HbA1c targets were similar in the Gla‐300 and Gla‐100 groups, for both renal function subgroups. There was a reduced risk of nocturnal (12:00‐5:59 am) confirmed (≤3.9 mmol/L [≤70 mg/dL]) or severe hypoglycaemia with Gla‐300 in both renal function subgroups (eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2: relative risk [RR] 0.76 [95% confidence interval {CI} 0.62‐0.94] and eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2: RR 0.75 [95% CI 0.67‐0.85]). For confirmed (≤70 mg/dL [≤3.9 mmol/L]) or severe hypoglycaemia at any time of day (24 hours) the hypoglycaemia risk was lower with Gla‐300 vs Gla‐100 in both the lower (RR 0.94 [95% CI 0.86‐1.03]) and higher (RR 0.90 [95% CI 0.85‐0.95]) eGFR subgroups.

Conclusions

Gla‐300 provided similar glycaemic control to Gla‐100, while indicating a reduced overall risk of confirmed (≤3.9 and <3.0 mmol/L [≤70 and <54 mg/dL]) or severe hypoglycaemia, with no significant difference between renal function subgroups.
Echocardiographic measures associated with the presence of left ventricular thrombus in patients with chemotherapy‐related cardiac dysfunction
Authors: Kitkungvan Danai , Yusuf Syed W. , Moudgil Rohit , Palaskas Nicolas , Guindani Michele , Juhee Song , Hassan Saamir , Sanchez Liza , Banchs Jose
Published: July 2018

Background

Previous studies have not evaluated the prevalence and specific risk factors for the development of left ventricular (LV) thrombus in patients with severely reduced left ventricular dysfunction due to chemotherapy‐related cardiomyopathy. We sought to evaluate the prevalence and potential markers of LV thrombus in this patient population.

Methods

From January 2009 to December 2013, patients with chemotherapy‐related severe LV dysfunction (LV ejection fraction [LVEF] ≤ 30%) identified from MD Anderson Cancer Center database were reviewed. Patient characteristics and echocardiographic parameters were analyzed to determine potential risk factors for LV thrombus.

Results

A total of 121 patients met inclusion criteria (age 54.8 ± 15.2 years; female 63.6%; LVEF 26.3 ± 4%). LV thrombus was present in 9 patients (7.4%). Patients with LV thrombus have significantly lower LVEF compared to those without (18.7 ± 3.8% vs 26.9 ± 3.4%, P < .0001). Prevalence of LV thrombus increased as LVEF decreased and was the highest in patients with LVEF < 20%. By univariate analysis, decreased LVEF, particularly LVEF < 20% (OR 36.30, 95% CI 7.35–179.25, P < .0001) and restrictive LV filling pattern (OR 18.13, 95% CI 4.17–78.89, P = .0001) were associated with presence of LV thrombus.

Conclusion

In patients with severely reduced LV systolic function due to chemotherapy‐induced cardiomyopathy, LV thrombus was found in 7.4% of subjects. Severely decreased LVEF (<20%) and restrictive LV filling pattern were associated with the presence of LV thrombus.
Polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation impairs anti‐oxidant high‐density lipoprotein function in heart failure
Authors: Wurm Raphael , Schrutka Lore , Hammer Alexandra , Moertl Deddo , Berger Rudolf , Pavo Noemi , Lang Irene M. , Goliasch Georg , Huelsmann Martin , Distelmaier Klaus
Published: July 2018

Background

The underlying reasons for the highly inconsistent clinical outcome data for omega‐3‐polyunsaturated fatty acids (n3‐PUFAs) supplementation in patients with cardiac disease have not been understood yet. The aim of this prospective, randomized, double‐blind, placebo controlled study was to determine the effects of oral treatment with n3‐PUFAs on the anti‐oxidant capacity of HDL in heart failure (HF) patients.

Methods

A total of 40 patients with advanced HF of nonischaemic origin, defined by NT‐proBNP levels of >2000 pg/mL, NYHA class III or IV and a LVEF <35% who were on stable optimized medical therapy for ≥3 months, were consecutively enrolled into this prospective, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial and randomized in a 1:1:1 fashion to receive 1 g/day or 4 g/day of n3‐PUFA, or placebo, respectively, for 12 weeks.

Results

After 12 weeks of treatment, the anti‐oxidant function of HDL, measured by the HDL inflammatory index, was found significantly impaired in the treatment group in a dose‐dependent fashion with 0.67 [IQR 0.49‐1.04] for placebo vs 0.71 [IQR 0.55‐1.01] for 1 g/day n3‐PUFA vs 0.98 [IQR 0.73‐1.16] for 4 g/day n3‐PUFA (P for trend = 0.018).

Conclusion

We provide evidence for an adverse effect of n3‐PUFA supplementation on anti‐oxidant function of HDL in nonischaemic heart failure patients, establishing a potential mechanistic link for the controversial outcome data on n3‐PUFA supplementation.
A call for a paradigm shift: Assumed‐to‐be premature migrants actually yield good returns
Authors: Birnie‐Gauvin Kim , Aarestrup Kim
Published: July 2018

Animals with complex life cycles often display plasticity in the timing of transitions across life stages. The brown trout,Salmo trutta, highlights such phenotypic plasticity with its alternative migratory tactics. Downstream migration of smolts exemplifies one of the many ways in which brown trout display plasticity. The timing of this migration is assumed to be in the spring, although recent evidence suggests an autumn migration is also present. While the proximate and ultimate causes for this autumn migration remain unclear, it was hypothesised that leaving in the autumn may have short‐term benefits (e.g., lower competition) but that these individuals are maladapted to life at sea and yield poor adult returns. To test this hypothesis, 1370 wild juvenile brown trout from a Danish stream were tagged withPITtags. Individuals were then divided into autumn and spring migrants depending on the timing of their outmigration to saltwater, and their return to freshwater was followed. Inconsistent with the hypothesis that autumn migrants yield poor returns, our findings suggest that autumn migrants yield similar return rates to spring migrants, with no observed differences in length, mass and condition upon tagging, nor in average time spent at sea. Our findings suggest that autumn migrants may not be maladapted to marine environments in a way that affects their survival, and call for a paradigm shift in the current description of the brown trout lifecycle.
Interspecific competition between restocked 0+ salmon parr (Salmo salar) and native fish species in a large European river
Authors: Floury Mathieu , Colombet Jonathan , Desvilettes Christian
Published: July 2018

Atlantic salmon populations have experienced strong declines in most large European rivers. In the Loire Basin, France, a major restocking effort has been carried out on the Allier River to reduce the wild population decline. This study aimed at investigating the trophic insertion of hatchery‐reared salmon parr and whether they compete for resources with native fish species. For this purpose, two riffles located in the upstream and downstream parts of the restocked area have been surveyed monthly following the initial 0+ salmon fry release. 0+ parr densities remained high upstream, with autumnal values greater than those recommended to maximise smolt production. In contrast, downstream densities declined to weak values despite a faster increase in size, probably mainly due to summer temperatures rising above the discomfort threshold. By analysing the vulnerability to predation of ingested invertebrate prey, we highlighted the role of habitat constraints in driving most of the different fish species to a likely opportunistic utilisation of available food resources. As a result, species such as stone loaches and barbel juveniles exhibited narrow trophic niches and high overlaps with 0+ parr. Nonetheless, both abundant prey resources and spatial or temporal habitat segregation have limited interspecific competition, enabling competitive coexistence of sympatric species, except for barbel juveniles in certain circumstances. Therefore, our findings suggest that future restocking programmes should carefully consider the thermal and hydraulic conditions regarding further smolt production as well as their general trophic context, according to the potential inconvenience of restocked salmon fry arrival relative to native species.